Three regional papers close down production

THE Roscommon Champion, Athlone Voice and Longford News, have been closed by the Alpha Newspaper Group which is owned by the former Unionist MP John Taylor and his family.

At least 25 staff at three regional midlands newspapers are set to lose their jobs after their titles ceased production yesterday.

The Alpha group said the decision to close the three newspapers is “very much regretted” and blamed the economic downturn in the Republic.

It said that it is entering into a period of consultation with employees, and said the group will assist them wherever possible. It is unclear whether any of the affected staff will be offered redeployment.

The National Union of Journalists accused the Alpha Newspaper Group of “acting with indecent haste” in forcing the immediate closure of the three newspapers.

“We are anxious to meet Mr Taylor to discuss redundancy terms,” said NUJ organiser Nicola Coleman.

Alpha Newspaper Group bought the Offaly-based Midland Tribune and Tullamore Tribune as well as the Longford News and Roscommon Champion in 2003 as part of a combined deal worth in the region of €15 million.

It took over the Athlone Voice in 2005.