Motion no: 5
This conference notes with concern the growing threat to media freedom in Northern Ireland.
The promotion and protection of independent journalism is essential to the functioning of a democratic society.
Attempts to undermine journalists and journalism, either by the State or extremist organisations and individuals, must be resisted.
Conference condemns the rise in threats to journalists, reported by the PSNI in September 2024.
Conference also notes the intimidation of reporters and photographers while covering Far Right protests and events through the Summer of 2024, notably in Belfast.
Far Right groups have also sought to intimidate journalists on social media, with female staff and freelance reporters being particular targets of abuse.
Conference extends solidarity to journalists and all workers subjected to intimidation in the course of their work by extremist groups with racist and sectarian ideologies.
Conference condemns the activities of Far Right activists in intimidating journalists and frontline workers, in furtherance of their political agenda.
Conference calls on the Northern Ireland committee to work with the NUJ and sister unions to promote awareness of the need to protect media workers from arrack while covering public events and demonstrations.
Conference demands a zero-tolerance approach towards such behavior.
Conference reminds employers of their obligation to put in place appropriate measures to minimise risk to workers under their duty of care obligations.
