At what point does your client become a liability?
3December 15, 2004 by Colin
Did you know it’s summer in Australia? I’m awfully aware of that fact, staring out my window at 8 inches of snow and a balmy -9 degrees celcius.
icon Communications is the AOR for Sharman Networks, the owner of Kazaa. As you probably know, Sharman is being chased through the Australian court system, and icon is being dragged along behind it.
The Australian Record Industry Association (ARIA) has subpoenaed every document, note, scribbling and text message involved in their business relationship, and is using this material in its case against Sharman.
Interestingly, the ARIA is also arguing that icon is materially interested in the outcome of the court case, and is therefore violating the code of ethics for the Public Relations Institute of Australia by continuing to provide media relations advice and services to Sharman.
“I question their independence as a PR agency,” says ARIA media spokesman for the case, Michael Speck. “They need their client to win the copyright case to justify their involvement in a promotional campaign, which is now a central plank in our case. They should disclose that involvement to journalists.”
There are more details in The Australian.
Of course, in a just world icon communications would instead be scorned and mocked for their flash-dependent website.
Addendum: apparently, my last comment only applies to a company operating as icon communications in Australia – and not related to the company advising Sharman. Still, WAAAY too much flash on their site.
The actual icon can be found here.
I suppose the amount the firm is willing to pay for the obvious risk of being associated with them would be the determining factor.
I concur, what gives with the Flash fest?
Some alarming intelligence: my blog shows up on page seven of a G**gle search for “colin mckay girlfriend.” This is so worrying, on so many levels, that I thought it my duty to inform you.
You may want to correct that link. The Icon Communications you refer to is in the States, but you”re linking to our firm in Australia. Just drop the “.au” and you’ll be on track.