Voice of the people? Objectives versus outcomes for community radio in Ireland

Abstract

Research has neglected to address the question of whether practitioners and the community groups served by community radio see it as a conduit of community empowerment and social change. This article explores this question through in-depth analysis of four community radio stations in Ireland. The central finding is that, while community stations subscribe to most of the ideals of community radio, practitioners do not generally see the stations as sites of social and political empowerment. Moreover, this outcome is not recognized as a benefit by the communities served by the stations. This is the case because of the policy framework, cultural traditions and training programmes central to community radio in Ireland, the weakness of linkages between stations and community groups and the failure of the latter to understand the unique remit of community radio.

“Thoughtful, well-written and vital” or “Outdated, sensational, and biased”?

“…Community news tends to reflect the community members' perspectives and interests (Putnam, 2000), because its reporters are usually people from the community (Tezon, 2003). They tend to publish content tailored to a smaller local audience, focus on issues ignored by mainstream media, promote dialogue and debate among various community members, and empower communities (O'Brien & Gaynor, 2012). Whether a newspaper functions as a platform and voice for community concerns is likely to be critical in attracting readership (Yamamoto 2011).…”

“…We know that local news is instrumental in informing people and building a sense of community by reducing feelings of isolation and creating networks of community groups. (O'Brien & Gaynor, 2012). Local news also builds community by increasing community participation and political discussion (Paek, Yoon & Shah, 2005).…”