When those who are supposed to be the watchdogs for the public interest become the guard-dogs at the gates of government, a country’s conversation may be guided by the dog that barks the loudest
RTÉ titans Liam Hourican, Seán Duignan and Shane Kenny blazed early paths from Montrose to become government press secretaries in times when such moves were rare. But the trickle has turned into a flood. Photograph: Bryan O Brien
Currently, there are 12 former journalists employed as ministers’ advisers. Eight of them were previously based in Leinster House as political editors, correspondents and reporters. Another was the editor of a daily newspaper.
Critics of the so-called “mainstream media” are wont to castigate journalists as politicians’ nodding dogs. Mere note-takers for government propaganda. If I had a euro for every time since the RTÉ controversy erupted last year that I’ve heard someone falsely claim the national broadcaster only reports news dictated to it by politicians, I could buy Versailles. Yet that distorted view is being oxygenated by the current exodus of journalists into government’s pay.
The parade of journalists from Leinster House into Government Buildings has the potential to further erode public trust in the media. Though the 12 former journalists currently working for ministers are decent individuals who have demonstrated integrity in their work on both sides of the divide, the sheer number involved lends credence to critics’ allegation of a “cosy relationship” between reporters and politicians. Quite simply, it looks incestuous.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Justine McCarthy: Politicians demonising NGOs is fodder for extremistsAccording to the handbook of regressive extremism, social justice organisations are the devil incarnate, their hooves and horns disguised by angels’ wings
Read more »
Jake McCarthy into lightweight 'A' final, while O'Donovan finishes third in heavyweight heatMargaret Cremin placed second in her lightweight singles prelim, while Alison Bergin and Zoe Hyde will return to the water for tomorrow’s repechage.
Read more »
Tributes paid to veteran RTÉ broadcaster and producer Alf McCarthyTánaiste Micheál Martin said popular Cork figure had ‘warm, courteous and happy disposition’
Read more »
Tributes pour after death of iconic former RTE broadcaster Alf McCarthyAlf McCarthy passed away following a short illness in Cork University Hospital on Wednesday
Read more »
Tributes pour in as former RTE presenter Alf McCarthy dies aged 73Alf McCarthy, who passed away following a short illness, was a very popular figure in Cork for not only his work as a broadcaster, but for his involvement in arts and culture groups as well
Read more »
Former RTÉ presenter Alf McCarthy dies aged 73Former RTÉ presenter and producer Alf McCarthy has died after a short illness.
Read more »