Research Shows Ireland’s Local Radio Stations Top Trust Rankings

71% of Irish people have trust in local radio, according to the latest research from the Reuters Institute, published today by Coimisiún na Meán.

Local radio was placed jointly at the top of the survey, along with RTÉ and local newspapers, as the most trusted news brands.

The report also found that while Irish people continue to trust major news brands, trust in news generally is in decline.

It also found that news avoidance is at an all-time high among Irish people, with 47% saying they find themselves actively trying to avoid the news.

42% of Irish people say they can trust most news most of the time, down from 51% last year. Trust in news is lowest (33%) among the 18–24-year-old age demographic, and highest (52%) among those 65+. Trust in news in Ireland remains relatively high compared to the UK at 31%, the US at 26% and the European average at 36%.

While RTÉ News, local radio and local newspapers lead trust rankings, they are followed closely by the Irish Times (69%) and the Irish Independent (68%).

“The strong trust in local outlets also speaks to the importance of a continuing robust regional news offering in the country,” said Prof Jane Suiter, Director of DCU Institute for Media, Democracy and Society.

“It is concerning that news avoidance continues to increase, and is now at its highest ever recorded rate, with almost half of those surveyed saying they find themselves actively trying to avoid news.”

Despite increased news avoidance, more Irish people are paying for news. 22% now pay, up from 9% ten years ago in 2016. When Irish respondents were asked why they paid for online news, 39% said to get useful content they can’t access any other way, with 38% saying it was to support journalism because they think it is important to society.

A representative from the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland has said that radio being free and credible is very positive for Irish people.

“Irish radio's continued trust and credibility is very positive for citizens, for communities and for society,” said Michael Kelly, Chief Executive of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland.

“Local radio in Ireland has a unique connection to audiences, and it earns their trust through the work of skilled and trained professionals 24/7/365. It is free and accessible and provides services in real time. It connects communities through familiar voices and shared experiences.

“It provides news and current affairs and other public service content and vital information during emergencies. It is a bulwark against misinformation and disinformation, and it creates a space where public issues and diverse perspectives can be discussed in a measured and respectful way,” he added.