Today marks a seminal moment in the history of the Irish newspaper industry as the first day of Journalism Matters Week commences.

‘Journalism Matters Week’ will see every local and national newspaper in the country collectively publishing editorials which celebrate the value of an independent press.

It is a coordinated effort, led by NewsBrands Ireland and Local Ireland, the representative bodies for the local and national newspapers, and is designed to highlight the vital role the press plays in a vibrant democracy.

The initiative also calls on the government to support Irish journalism and a number of measures being sought by the newspaper industry to ensure its future.

The #JournalismMatters campaign calls on the Government to use Budget 2019 to deliver on a five-point-plan for the industry:

Apply a 5% VAT rate to newspapers and digital products in Budget 2019, ahead of ultimately reducing to 0% once EU laws allow

Reform Ireland’s draconian defamation laws to ensure that the stories that need to be told, are told

Appoint a Minister for Media – a single member of the Cabinet should have oversight for all aspects of our complex media landscape

Establish a News Publishers Media Fund – to drive innovation and investment

Invest in a training support scheme for all journalists

What is the Journalism Matters video series?

The Journalism Matters video series created by NewsBrands Ireland features 15 examples of outstanding public interest journalism which have affected real change in society.

These examples range from recent investigative journalism which uncovered wrongdoing or illegal activity, to campaigning journalism which achieved tangible results, to the reporting of issues or stories which change the public discourse and narrative.

The Journalism Matters video series reflects on the news reporting of deeper issues that serve to prevent problems from developing or that shines a new light on old issues.

Chairman of NewsBrands Ireland, Vincent Crowley said:

“The future of Irish journalism is at a crossroads and government inaction now is simply not an option.

Without the supports and investment, and clarity on VAT rates, the sector will not be able to thrive and invest, but will falter and publications will be forced to close or at best scale back on the good, independent journalism that has been a bedrock of Irish democracy.

"The forthcoming budget gives this government the opportunity to send a strong message that it appreciates a vibrant news media industry in this country and is seeking ways to protect it for future generations.”

President of Local Ireland, Frank Mulrennan said:

"Aside from the loss to democratic life in our society, the losses will be big in many communities – jobs will go, not just in the newspaper titles, but many of the supporting ones in newsagents and other indirect jobs.

"Without strong and healthy local newspapers politicians will be challenged in maintaining engagement with the electorate because local newspapers reach at least 1.5 million people across Ireland each week.”

- Digital Desk