Irish journalism developed during the 19th century at a time of tremendous change. While journalists were involved in the debates about nationalism, both as commentators and in many cases activists, they also developed a journalism practice that corresponded to the professional norms of journalists in Britain and the United States. It would appear that the middle‐class nature of Irish journalists meant there was a dual pressure towards professionalising journalism and fighting for legislative independence. Both factors came together in the development of a public sphere, where professional journalists were involved in creating public opinion.

DOES A JOURNALIST'S COMMITMENT TO PROTECT THE IDENTITY OF ANONYMOUS SOURCES OVERRIDE THE DUTY TO READERS AND VIEWERS?

THE MURDER OF IRISH JOURNALIST MARTIN O'HAGAN RAISES IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

In 1701 Dublin was a 'lewd and debauched' town with nowhere to sit down and read. Archbishop Marsh's gift remedied at least the second complaint

George Orwell said it was not necessary to live in a totalitarian society to be corrupted by one. In Ireland, Catholic oppression was condoned in the name of the battle against godless communism

New Ideas concerning the role and purpose of journalism have provoked debate throughout the former Soviet Union, and more than a little confusion