The President has warned a congress of international journalists of the need for a free and diverse media.

Michael D. Higgins made the remarks as he opened the international Federation of Journalists World Congress in Dublin this evening.

In his address, he said emphasised the importance of a free press to democratic society.

CONTROVERSY

Just last month President Michael D. Higgins faced accusations that his criticism of European austerity policies were outside his remit and could be considered political interference.

This evening, he didn't hold back in his address to the IFJ world Congress, when he warned over 300 journalists of the dangers of what he called "identi-fit news organisations"

President Higgins said real pluralism in media should reflect the views and needs of rich and poor alike.

He said governments need to keep this issue at the forefront of media policy - adding that democracy, freedom and even economic growth depend on it.

He listed the challenges facing journalists as: concentration of ownership, convergence of technologies and the fragmentation of audiences.

President Higgins said journalists investigating political and corporate corruption can often be hindered and intimidated by vested interests.

This, he concluded, could lead to misrepresentation of information - which would be detrimental to society at large.