Speaking to a reported anonymously?

CarMe

I'm wondering if anyone can help me, I've been asked to speak to reporter about something that could benefit a cause that I feel very strongly about. I'm told this will be anonymous but is there any way I can be absolutely sure this is the case?

*Reporter sorry not reported!

coylemj

Short answer is 'no', there is no way that you can be 'absolutely' sure but I wouldn't be worried too much, it's part of the basic principles of journalism that members of the profession protect their sources when they are given information on an unattributable basis.

Check that the person you're speaking to is a member of the NUJ, that's really your only guarantee that your anonymity will be respected because if they did leak your identity, they would probably be booted out and that would have a serious effect on their ability to get any work in the media in the future or to be accredited to attend political conferences, press launches and the like.

CarMe

Thank you. Would I actually have to share my identity with the journalist in the first place do you know?
It seems unnecessary?

coylemj

CarMe wrote: »

Thank you. Would I actually have to share my identity with the journalist in the first place do you know?
It seems unnecessary?

It may not seem unnecessary to the journalist. A lot of people have axes to grind and journalists want to make sure that they are not printing malicious gossip or backstabbing masquerading as fair comment so you may be asked to identify yourself with the assurance that your identity will be protected.

If you're not prepared to trust the journalist then you shouldn't be talking to him/her. They have their reputation to protect as well as your identity!

Manach

Offhand there are various protections in the Whistleblowers bill, but these might be limited in subject matter as well as only to those in an employment situation.