Broadcasting watchdog: Fairness instead of 50/50 airtime during abortion referendum

The broadcasting watchdog has said presenters can provide fair and objective views during the Eighth Amendment referendum campaign as opposed to having to ensure there is even time for each side in the debate.

However, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has confirmed that rules will not be applied to social media coverage during the campaign, including on sites such as Facebook.

Launching guidelines for upcoming referenda, the BAI restated that any television or radio presenter with specific views during a campaign should be kept off-air. This is in line with previous guidelines.