Local Democracy Reporter - Sligo
Job Description
Job Title: Local Democracy Reporter
Location: Sligo (Hybrid)
Role Purpose
We have an exciting new opportunity for a reporter in Sligo to join a team of journalists at The Sligo Champion, Irish Independent, and Mediahuis Ireland. The role involves providing accurate and engaging coverage of Sligo County Council and local democracy issues for our digital and print audiences.
This is a 12-month position funded by a journalism scheme from Coimisiún na Meán, the independent media regulator.
The Local Democracy Reporter will cover matters related to local democracy in County Sligo, including council meetings, policy committees, and breaking stories of local and national importance. Building contacts within the council, communities, and businesses is essential.
The ideal candidate must have strong news sense, be capable of working independently, and ensure stories are verified, legally sound, and suitable for publication across digital platforms and print titles. Accuracy and news judgment are key skills.
This role offers an opportunity to join a proactive team of reporters and editors delivering local news on a national scale, working closely with colleagues at The Sligo Champion, Irish Independent, and across Mediahuis Ireland.
Mediahuis is Ireland's leading media publisher, reaching millions daily, committed to independent journalism that benefits society and local communities. We foster an open-minded, curious environment encouraging continuous improvement.
The Job in a Nutshell
Your work will focus on reporting local government and democracy issues, contributing to our award-winning journalism. This is the first time Coimisiún na Meán has directly supported public-interest journalism, and this scheme aims to enhance our high-quality, trusted journalism.
Local news is vital for connecting with our audience, and this scheme allows journalists to work directly in communities, maintaining our commitment to independence.
This role supports our ongoing investment in local journalism through initiatives like Project Leap, which has received international awards.
Role Responsibilities
* Ensure comprehensive coverage of local democracy issues in Sligo across digital platforms, The Sligo Champion, and other print titles
* Write, edit, and publish breaking news swiftly
* Work calmly under pressure to meet deadlines
* Collaborate with local photographers and freelancers
* Engage with the audience via social media
* Edit content to high standards, ensuring legal and quality compliance
* Generate ideas for video and podcasts
* Understand the workings of Sligo County Council
* Work with editors to develop new ideas
Experience & Qualifications
* Strong understanding of local government
* News reporting experience essential
* Knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act
* Regional based location
* Experience in local journalism is advantageous
Skills
* Strong communication, writing, and editing skills
* Ability to work independently and proactively
* Social media proficiency
Other Attributes
* Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
* Tenacity and a positive attitude
* Adaptability and quick learning
* Attention to detail
* Good decision-making skills
* Broad knowledge of current news
* Strong judgment and collaboration skills
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