Informed 12


News Update


Noose talk: Jim Aughney learns why reporters increasingly eschew neckware


Suitable candidates: life members put on a polished performance


Storm of disapproval: Michelle Stanistreet condemns RTÉ’s proposed cuts


Oral sextet: Carol Coulter conducts an approving chorus


Irish gather to defend journalism


In October on Achill Island, Co Mayo, a Fianna Fáil councillor forced a freelance video journalist to leave a meeting about the proposed opening of a centre that would provide asylum seekers with emergency accommodation. Some of the audience at that meeting chanted ‘Out, out’ at the camera operator. It was a sharp reminder of need to


defend free journalism on this island, warned Irish Secretary Séamus Dooley, opening the union’s biannual Irish


delegate meeting in Dublin. Around 100 atendees gathered at the Gresham Hotel to consider motions, participate in panel discussions and celebrate the award of 32 life membership certificates. Delegates supported motions calling


for the reversal of proposed cuts at RTÉ, the creation of a Lyra McKee charitable fund, and applauding Northern Ireland’s Lord Chief Justice for supporting journalistic freedom in the case brought by Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey.


General secretary Michelle Stanistreet


called on journalists to remember the example of Lyra McKee. “If her death prompts us to do one thing, it should be to consider what circumstances are necessary for more like her to thrive. Journalism and the NUJ needs more Lyras,” Sranistreet told the delegates. Te conference thanked outgoing joint Cathaoirleachs Bernie Mullan and Gerry Carson and welcomed their successors, Siobhan Holliman and Dara Bradley.


All Photos: Maxwell


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