Ireland’s local radio stations are among the most trusted sources of news in the country, according to new research published today.

The latest Digital News Report from the Reuters Institute, published by Coimisiún na Meán, found that 71 per cent of people trust local radio. The figure places local radio jointly at the top of the rankings alongside RTÉ as the country’s most trusted news brands.

The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland says the findings highlight the important role local stations play in communities across the country.

Chief Executive Michael Kelly says radio continues to earn public trust through the work of trained broadcasting professionals and its ability to provide reliable information in real time.

He says local radio connects communities through familiar voices and shared experiences, provides essential news and public service information, particularly during emergencies, and plays an important role in combating misinformation and disinformation.