asked the Taoiseach if he intends to establish a press council; if he has received representations from the National Union of Journalists or other interested parties in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Press Council.
1.
I have no proposals at present to establish a press council, nor have I received representations in that regard from the National Union of Journalists or other interested parties.
In view of the fact that there is a complaints commission for RTE does the Taoiseach not think there should be a similar body, such as a press council, for the other media?
I think a press council could be useful but I doubt if a press council imposed by the Government and created by the Government would be useful. It would be preferable if such a council were to emerge from the journalistic profession or the newspapers rather than the Government.
I agree it should consist of journalists and perhaps newspaper proprietors but I would ask that the Government take the initiative setting up the council and providing the finance.
I do not think I would be disposed to take the initiative. However, if there was an indication from those immediately concerned that the Government could help, we would certainly respond.
The Taoiseach has indicated that he thinks it might be a good idea to have a press council. What functions does he envisage such a council would have?
The only such council with which I am familiar is the one in Great Britain and I am sure the Deputy is as much aware as I am of the functions of that body and the role they perform.
Is it expected that the Government would provide journalists with a stick to beat themselves with?
I do not want to be drawn into that area. A number of responsible journalists would probably welcome such a council.
Does it cause the Taoiseach any concern that newspapers which originate in Britain are responsible for comments and arguments in their Irish editions which are not complimentary and, if anything, are biased against our community here and in Britain? Does he feel that complaints here about such articles would be entertained by the British Press Council?
The Deputy is now going into the possible functions of a possible council.
If I were to begin to protest about newspaper articles or comments I would begin nearer home.
I thought the Taoiseach was getting a fair run from them.