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Press Council to host seminar on Children and the Media

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Sunday, 21st November 2010
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Press Council to host seminar on Children and the Media

The Press Council of Ireland is to hold a seminar in Dublin on Monday, 6 December on the subject of Children and the Media. Among the keynote speakers is a renowned Norwegian child psychologist who will present his research into ways in which the media in that country can have an impact on children.

Professor Magne Raundalen from the Centre for Crisis Psychology in Bergen is President of the Norwegian UNICEF Committee and an advisor to the Children’s Ombudsman in Norway. His paper “Children and the Newspaper – Not Seen, nor Heard, but Scared” deals in particular with the effect which graphic headlines about violent crimes can sometimes have on vulnerable minors. It will be responded to by the Ombudsman for Children Emily Logan.

The seminar will also cover legal and professional issues surrounding coverage of children in the media, with contributions from media, legal and advocacy professionals. Paul Connors, Director of Communications with the HSE, and Fergus Finlay of Barnardos will conclude by highlighting lessons which can assist in formulating future policy in an Irish context.

“The upcoming referendum on children, as well as an increasing awareness generally of children’s rights, lends a timely backdrop to this seminar, which is the first of its kind in this country” comments Professor John Horgan, Press Ombudsman. “It is hoped that the research and experiences gathered from our expert speakers will assist in the interpretation and application of Principle 9 of the Press Council’s Code of Practice by journalists and others.”

Principle 9 requires newspapers and periodicals to take particular care in presenting information or comment about children under the age of 16.

The seminar takes place on Monday, 6th December at 11am in the Morgan Hotel in Fleet Street and is open to members of the public. Places are limited and those interested in attending are required to register in advance with the Press Council of Ireland on (01) 6489130.

For further information/interviews please contact Conor Horgan, Cullen Communications, Tel 01 6689099 Mob 086 8217211 Email chorgan@cullencommunications.ie