Broadcasting policy

A Westminster Select Committee is holding hearings in Belfast on broadcasting policy today.

In its submission the National Union of Journalists has argued that Northern Ireland is not the same as other nations and regions of the UK. It is a post-conflict society and as such the provision of local news is of even greater importance to society.

The proposed justification for reducing news and current affairs coverage because of the changing political situation in Northern Ireland is simply not valid. The nature of news may have changed, but its importance has not diminished.

Journalists are very worried about proposals to cut the number of hours dedicated to current affairs journalism here will  be asking MPS to reflect on the impact these proposals will have on the NI Assembly.