NUJ expresses alarm at attack on photographer

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) is to seek a meeting with senior Garda management following the assault of a photographer at the Reclaim the Streetsrally last Monday.

A member of the NUJ, Mr Stephen Humphreys, was taking photographs at the rally for the Irish Independentwhen he was injured when gardaí moved in to clear protesters. He has been charged with public order offences, which he will strongly contest.

"The NUJ is deeply disturbed by the treatment of Mr Humphreys. This was an appalling attack, which strikes at the core of democracy. It is indeed fortunate that journalists and photographers were present on Monday to witness the unacceptable behaviour of some gardaí," the NUJ's Irish secretary, Mr Eoin Ronayne, said.

"Without a media presence it is likely that the shameful episode would have been swept under the carpet and the claims of the protestors discredited".

Mr Ronayne said the union has been concerned for some time at the disregard shown by some members of the Garda Siochana to journalists presenting the NUJ press card. "It is vital that the integrity of the card be respected," he said.

Another NUJ executive, Ms Mary Maher described it as ironic that three days after World Press Freedom Day, working journalists should find themselves attacked by people charged with protecting democracy. "Those involved in Monday’s attack on peaceful protestors do no credit to their colleagues and bring shame on the force," she said.

The NUJ is to step up its campaign to have the Garda Siochána brought within the remit of the Freedom of Information Act.

"Law-abiding gardaí have nothing to fear from such a move. The army is covered by the act and this has posed no threat to the security of the State. A transparent, accountable police force would be in the interest of all citizens," Irish organiser Mr Seamus Dooley said.