How press is regulated

THE media is held to account by several bodies, including the Press Council, the Office of the Press Ombudsman, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and the courts.

The Press Council of Ireland and the Office of the Press Ombudsman were established in 2008. Both bodies, which are independent of the Government and the press, consider complaints about newspapers (both print and online), magazines and online-only publications.

Media must commit to the Code of Practice of the Press Council and people can make complaints, free of charge, about any publication that is a member of the Council.

The Code of Practice includes truth and accuracy, distinguishing fact and comment, fair procedure and honesty, respect for rights, privacy and protection of sources.

The bodies also promote press freedom and the right to freedom of expression.

The Press Council and the Press Ombudsman cannot consider complaints about broadcasting or advertising; this is done by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.

All Irish broadcasters must ensure their output is legal and compliant with the BAI’s standards. If a person believes a broadcast is not compliant, they can complain to the BAI.

The media must also adhere to defamation and libel laws – and Ireland has one of the toughest regimes in Europe. Journalists can also be prosecuted under hate speech and copyright legislation if they use too many pieces of another publication’s work.