Truth, honesty and accuracy are key

By Meghann Scully

On Monday last the press ombudsman John Horgan gave a guest lecture. Being absent from the lecture was unfortunate but the information gathered from my colleagues painted a picture of a very intellectual, passionate and articulate man. As press ombudsman John must ensure that complaints of the media are dealt with immediately and in a fair manner.



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After ‘googling’ his name and scrolling through images of John Horgan I envisaged a jolly man with a beaming warm smile. He has the look of Fr.Christmas with his grey beard and white hair. His skin reflects a man wise beyond his years and his eyes tell a story of a life well lived. From speaking with those that attended the lecture, they were compelled by the man described as “the most relevant speaker “.

As press ombudsman, John Horgan deals daily with complaints from the public about printing and broadcast journalism. During his hour and half long lecture he explained that codes one and five are the most complained about of all the principles.

Principle one deals with truth and accuracy. Principle 1.2 says “when a significant inaccuracy, misleading statement or distorted report or picture has been published, it shall be corrected promptly and with due prominence”.

Principe five is privacy, another issue of huge complaint in the office of the press ombudsman. Although the principle allows for people of public prominence to be reported on, it does emphasise respect for their personal privacy.

Another topic aside from the principle mentioned by John was the need for good taste and common sense in journalism. After speaking with my colleagues I felt just as informed about the need for good, honest and decent reporting that will inform the public without causing stress or pain on anyone. When I read principle one and five slowly and clearly it took new meaning in my journey of becoming a journalist.