Calls Grow for All-Island Journalism to Fuel Informed Debate on Future of Ireland
BELFAST – A leading communications executive is urging Irish public broadcasters to prioritize shared journalism initiatives,arguing a more informed and nuanced public discourse is critical ahead of potential constitutional change and to capitalize on burgeoning cross-border business ties.Kieran Donnelly, managing director of Morrow Communications, contends that lessons from the Brexit debate underscore the need for evidence-based discussion, especially as the possibility of a border poll gains momentum.
donnelly believes both RTÉ and BBC Northern Ireland have a public duty to lead by example, fostering a greater understanding between communities in the Republic and Northern Ireland. He emphasizes that any future debate on the island’s constitutional future must extend beyond narrow political or ideological lines, incorporating the perspectives of business leaders and civic society. A failure to do so, he warns, risks repeating the pitfalls of the Brexit referendum, where informed debate was notably absent.
The call for collaborative journalism comes as cross-border business collaboration continues to expand, presenting a compelling narrative that deserves greater attention. Donnelly highlights the importance of a “fourth estate” that accurately reflects and informs this evolving landscape,ensuring a wider audience understands the economic and societal benefits of increased all-island cooperation.
“Both public broadcasters on this island…should lead by example,” Donnelly stated, adding that shared journalism can help “inform some crucial debates, educate their audiences and close the cultural and civic gap between Ireland’s north and south.”
Kieran Donnelly is managing director at morrow Communications, a creative communications consultancy based in Holywood.
