It is the duty of the media to probe and expose, even at the risk of unpopularity and of occasional mistakes, according to the Bishop of Cashel and Ossory, the Right Rev John Neill.
In his address to the diocesan synod yesterday, Bishop Neill said unnecessary invasion of privacy by the press might be "nothing less than intimidation", while irresponsible speculation undermined the stability of Irish life.
"But there is a converse to this. There is a questioning throughout this State of the culture of `nod and wink'. There is a widespread call for real transparency about the way that those in public positions receive large donations, and accountability is now demanded."
