Welcome to The Premier
When The Times was founded in 1785 by the editor and publisher John Walter I, to record the principal occurrences of the times, he explained that “like a well- covered table, it should contain something suited to every palate.”
In its tone and political neutrality, Walter reserved the right of the newspaper “to censure or applaud either [political party]” and to cover contending issues with respectful “fair argument”.
Sentiments from nearly 250 years ago, but a point of view that holds true to this day.
We are living in dangerous times when dark ideologies flourish, and it’s no surprise that people feel anxious and confused. It is why accurate news reporting is more important today than ever before.
That is what The Premier journalism is trying to do: to give you the facts so that, through clarity, we can make sense of what is happening around us.
From the start, The Premier Newspaper will operate on a very straightforward principle: Local news for the people of South Tipperary. We are very lucky to live in such a thriving part of the country in South Tipperary. Throughout this current pandemic community spirit has shone through and it is our intention here at The Premier to reflect that community spirit in our print and online fortnightly editions.
Our values are honesty, integrity, courage, fairness, and a sense of duty to the reader and the community. We stand up for what we believe is right, not what is easy, and we hope that you the reader will feel that this newspaper reflects that sentiment.
We will strive for excellence to pursue the best interests of our audience and our colleagues, and it is our intention to supply to you a newspaper that you can be proud of.
Every fortnight we will produce a hard-copy newspaper that will be distributed throughout South Tipperary. The Premier digital newspaper will be constructed in a familiar newspaper format with some extra features. The pages will be interactive and will include audio and video as well as links to social media sites and our advertiser’s web pages. It is a formula which we hope will earn loyalty from the people of South Tipperary.
While our main focus will be to produce a news-driven publication that informs and entertains, we will also promote individuals, businesses and local communities whenever possible. We hope that you the reader will contribute to making The Premier a success.
We particularly welcome feedback and all suggestions will be considered.
Best wishes
Jamie O’Flaherty
Published by The Premier, South Tipperary News, 18B Dudley’s Mills, Clonmel