Regional papers have mixed fortunes

TWO of the country’s biggest regional newspapers have had mixed fortunes.

Profits at the Clare Champion rose in 2004 year, but the Connacht Tribune saw its earnings slip, newly- filed accounts for the two companies reveal.

The Connacht Tribune made a profit before tax of €816,779 in the year to end March 2005, down from €994,761 in the previous 12 months. A rise in distribution costs and administration expenses was behind the fall. The company also took an exceptional charge of more than €210,000.