Press is unfair to travellers says UU.
From IRISH NEWS January 21st, 2000
By Rosie Uffindell
TRAVELLERS receive the most negative coverage in Northern Ireland's press,
according to a report on media coverage of minority ethnic groups. The coverage
of travellers was the single biggest issue of concern, according to the
University of Ulster's Dr Liz Fawcett. Most of the coverage was reactive
and passive, with journalists seldom interviewing ordinary members of communities
to talk about their views and experiences. But the Irish News was praised
for "reasonably consistent" coverage and individual good stories. Dr Fawcett,
director of UU's media studies department, has recommended the law be changed
to ensure media organisations can be held accountable under racial equality
legislation. "The publication of this report comes at a time when a new equality agenda is unfolding against the backdrop of a devolved administration and racial issues are part of that agenda," she said. "It is ironic that those who are the most marginalised and politically unrepresented are the subjects of negative media treatment. It is hoped that these guidelines will help to raise awareness and bring about change." The report was launched with guidelines of good practice for journalists. "We would urge all journalists and editors to apply them as a matter of good practice reporting," Equality Commission chief commissioner Joan Harbison said. |
