Code of Ethics
The ethical principles that guide our journalism
Last updated: 24 February 2026
Our Commitment
Ethical journalism in the public interest
The Irish Bugle is committed to ethical journalism. This Code of Ethics guides our work and sets expectations for how we gather, report, and present news. While not every situation can be anticipated, these principles inform our decision-making.
Fundamental Principles
The foundation of our ethics
Seek Truth and Report It
Journalists should pursue accuracy, verify information, and provide context. The public is entitled to as complete and factual a report as possible.
Minimize Harm
Ethical journalism treats sources, subjects, and colleagues as human beings deserving of respect. Balance the public's need for information with potential harm.
Act Independently
Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. Refuse gifts, favors, or compensation that could compromise editorial integrity.
Be Accountable
Take responsibility for the accuracy of our work. Acknowledge mistakes and correct them promptly. Respond to questions about our journalism.
Seeking Truth
Standards for accurate reporting
We strive to gather and report information responsibly:
- • Verify information before publication when possible
- • Identify sources clearly, recognizing that anonymity should be the exception
- • Question official and unofficial sources with equal skepticism
- • Provide context and explain why stories matter
- • Distinguish between fact, analysis, and opinion
- • Acknowledge when information is incomplete or uncertain
- • Never plagiarize or fabricate information
Minimizing Harm
Balancing public interest with individual dignity
We balance the public's need for information with respect for individuals:
- • Show compassion for those affected by our coverage
- • Consider the long-term impact of our reporting on subjects
- • Be cautious when reporting on minors, victims of crime, and vulnerable individuals
- • Avoid pandering to prurient curiosity
- • Balance a suspect's right to fair trial with the public's right to know
- • Consider alternatives to identifying individuals in sensitive situations
- • Realize that private people have a greater right to privacy than public figures
Acting Independently
Maintaining editorial freedom
We protect our editorial independence:
- • Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived
- • Refuse gifts, favors, and special treatment that could compromise integrity
- • Disclose unavoidable conflicts
- • Resist pressure from advertisers, donors, or political figures
- • Maintain clear separation between editorial and commercial operations
- • Be wary of sources offering exclusive information in exchange for favorable coverage
- • Avoid political activity that could compromise perceived neutrality
Being Accountable
Transparency and responsibility
We take responsibility for our journalism:
- • Acknowledge mistakes and correct them promptly and prominently
- • Explain our editorial decisions and processes when asked
- • Respond to questions and complaints from readers
- • Encourage civil dialogue about our coverage
- • Expose unethical conduct in journalism, including our own
- • Abide by the same high standards we demand of others
Conflicts of Interest
Specific guidance on common situations
Financial Interests
Journalists should avoid covering companies, industries, or issues in which they have a financial stake. Financial interests should be disclosed to editors.
Personal Relationships
Journalists should not cover stories involving close friends, family members, or romantic partners. These relationships should be disclosed to editors.
Political Activity
While journalists are citizens with personal views, overt political activity can undermine perceived objectivity. Participation in political campaigns or activism is discouraged.
Gifts and Hospitality
Journalists should decline gifts, free trips, or special treatment from sources or subjects of coverage. Nominal items of insignificant value may be acceptable.
Social Media & Personal Conduct
Maintaining standards online
Our ethical standards extend to social media and online conduct:
- • Personal social media accounts reflect on The Irish Bugle
- • Avoid expressing views that could undermine perceived objectivity
- • Maintain professional standards in online interactions
- • Be transparent about affiliations when discussing coverage areas
- • Think before posting or sharing
Adherence & Enforcement
How we uphold these standards
This Code of Ethics guides our work but cannot anticipate every situation. When ethical questions arise, journalists should consult with editors. Violations of this code may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination, depending on severity.
Questions About Our Ethics?
We welcome questions and feedback about our ethical standards and practices.
Editorial team:
editorial@bugle.ie