McDowell backs independent press ombudsman

TÁNAISTE Michael McDowell yesterday gave his full backing to the independent press ombudsman and press council proposed by the print media and journalists.

The new body, called the Press Council of Ireland, was unveiled yesterday at a press conference in Dublin, which Mr McDowell attended.

Coupled with the Defamation Act 2006 (replacing the existing 1961 legislation) which goes before the Seanad today, the establishment of the press council will represent the most radical move since the foundation of the State to address the balance between the right of free expression and the right of individuals to their good name.