OSCE media freedom representative seriously concerned by arrest of journalists in UK

VIENNA - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir expressed serious concern today about arrests of two journalists and search of their property in Northern Ireland.

Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey were arrested on Friday morning in connection with an investigation into alleged theft of documents from the office of the Police Ombudsman of Northern Ireland. The journalists produced a documentary about the murder of six men at Loughinisland in County Down. The documents relate to a police investigation into the 1994 murders.

“I am seriously concerned by the arrest of two journalists in Northern Ireland. Journalists have the right to use any confidential information for reporting on stories of public interest,” said Désir. 

Birney and McCaffrey were released on bail the same evening and the material seized during the investigation will not be examined pending the outcome of a legal challenge brought by the film company behind the documentary to the validity of the search warrant.

“It is positive that independent judiciary will decide whether journalists’ property can be examined since it is essential that journalists' privilege to confidential sources is protected and that journalists are free to do their work,” said Désir.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.