Concern over proposal that would see both Newry newspapers with same owner

The National Union of Journalists has expressed concern over the proposed acquisition of the Alpha Media Group by Iconic Media owned by Malcolm Denmark.

Alpha's newspapers include the Newry Democrat, The County Down Outlook and the Ulster Gazette. If the acquisition goes ahead it will mean the Newry Reporter and the Newry Democrat will have the same owners as Iconic Media also own the 'Reporter, after National World was rebranded.

In a submission to Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the union has highlighted what they say is Iconic’s unhealthy share of the Irish media market in terms of ownership, editorial control and advertising influence.

A statement from the NUJ said "The potential takeover of Alpha Media has serious implications for media diversity, plurality and independence in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland - particularly in the Northwest and along the Western seaboard, in the North East and Midlands, and on both sides of the border. Iconic also recently acquired the Connacht Tribune, further cementing its dominance."

It continued "The consolidation and concentration of media ownership is bad for business and bad for democracy. The NUJ has highlighted the dangers posed to competition and employment if the CCPC were to allow Iconic’s relentless expansion. Denmark’s company routinely treats trade unions with hostility, refusing to engage in collective negotiations or allow workers representation."

The union is looking guarantees that current titles and jobs will be retained. They also have written to the Competition and Markets Authority in the UK calling for a review into the proposed transaction.