The conflict-of-interest case involving pundit and media trainer Ivan Yates during the presidential election reveals a wider problem in Irish media. News outlets routinely fail to disclose when presenters and contributors have a potential stake in the issues being discussed. As a result, audiences are deprived of honest debate.
The dangers of vested interests are obvious. That’s why disclosure is a basic regulatory standard. The Press Council’s code of practice states that “readers are entitled to expect that the content of a publication ... has not been inappropriately influenced by undisclosed interests”. Coimisiún na Meán’s code requires broadcasters to “be aware of the relevant interests” of news and current affairs personnel and to inform audiences of “anything that might reasonably be perceived as calling into question” the fairness, objectivity or impartiality of a programme or item.
Yet, news outlets frequently platform people without revealing their affiliations.
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