Seanad debates

Wednesday, 2 February 2005

11:00 am

Photo of Geraldine FeeneyGeraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I support the calls for a debate on the libel laws, particularly the need for a press council and press complaints board. It is almost a year since I raised this matter in regard to the Club Anabel case, where irresponsible journalists caused great upset, not alone to the families of those involved but to all those reading the newspapers. It is interesting to note that the appeals in this matter cite irresponsible journalists as part of their case.

In recent days it has become apparent that journalists writing for tabloids are using fictitious names. When one tries to check out a particular journalist, it is found that nobody of that name works for the newspaper. Journalists are putting a name to a story, spreading their nets and writing what they want. It is probably typical of everything that happens in this country that when ordinary Joe or Josephine Citizen raises some matter, or is hurt or hounded by somebody, it goes unnoticed. However, when a journalist, politician or celebrity is hounded or tracked down by journalists, we all sit up.

As Senator Brian Hayes noted, it does not matter who is hounded or hurt, the result is the same. However, as this has been highlighted by the Charlie Bird issue, we should not let the matter slip and should follow it through. I hope I will not have to ask for such a debate again in a year's time.

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