The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) yesterday congratulated the Editor of The Irish Times, Geraldine Kennedy, and the paper's public affairs correspondent, Colm Keena, on their refusal to reveal their sources before the Mahon tribunal.
In a statement, Irish Secretary Séamus Dooley said the NUJ supported the stand taken by Mr Keena, who has said he cannot assist the inquiry in identifying the source of a leak revealing payments to Mr Ahern.
Mr Dooley said the right of journalists to protect sources is recognised internationally.
"The Irish Times has acted in the public interest. Ms Kennedy and Mr Keena had no option but to refuse to answer questions about their source. In her exercise of editorial judgment the Editor of The Irish Times had to take into account the significant public interest attaching to the information released to the newspaper."
Mr Dooley added: "The latest revelations underline the need for a whistle-blowers' charter in this country and bring into sharp focus the provisions of the Privacy Bill 2006. I have no doubt that the provisions of that Bill could be used to thwart legitimate investigation into the finances of public figures."
The National Newspapers of Ireland (NNI) said it applauded the stance taken by Ms Kennedy and Mr Keena. It said journalists must have the right to decline to identify their sources without fear of prosecution or imprisonment.