A Waterford Senator says the demise of local and national media would do untold damage to our democracy.

Grace O’Sullivan says strong independent journalism matters in an age of fake news and digital manipulation.

The Green Party Senator says the Waterford media are playing an integral role in shaping local issues, highlighting problems and successes and fostering a sense of community.

She says they haven’t rested on their laurels either.

“While online news has threatened old models, it is not as if papers and radio stations have been standing still,” she said.

She highlighted the fact that other European countries offer “considerable supports”, including differential VAT rates, as well as direct and indirect subsidies to support media diversity.”