NewsBrands welcomes Ireland’s commitment, as part of its upcoming EU Presidency programme, to implement the European Media Freedom Act, review the Copyright Directive, and begin negotiations on any revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) – key priorities highlighted in our submission to the Presidency consultation.

We are also pleased to see the programme prioritise strengthening online safety for children, as young people navigate a digital environment shaped by algorithms, AI-generated content and misinformation.

However, we are disappointed that Ireland has not matched Denmark’s ambition in placing strong, independent and trustworthy media at the centre of its democratic, security, competitiveness and cultural agenda.

Our submission called for action to:
• Ensure fair competition by preventing dominant platforms and AI companies from undermining media business models, prioritising disinformation, or using publishers’ content without fair compensation.
• Strengthen digital resilience, particularly among children and young people, through greater platform accountability, stronger online safety standards and comprehensive media literacy education.
• Leverage initiatives such as the European Democracy Shield to combat misinformation, support trusted media and ensure major technology platforms meet their responsibilities.
• Update media and copyright rules to reflect the realities of a digital and AI-driven information environment, while protecting investment in quality journalism.

Disinformation, deepfakes and the uncompensated use of copyrighted content to train AI systems pose growing threats to democratic debate and the sustainability of independent journalism. Ireland’s Presidency presents an opportunity to lead EU discussions on ensuring AI and digital policy support, rather than erode, trusted media, press freedom and democratic resilience.

Strong journalism and trusted media remain essential to Europe’s democratic future.

Read our full submission here:

https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/c16e2462/NewsBrands_Ireland_-_Submission_360.docx