Science

Irish Science Media Centre set up to tackle rising misinformation and enhance public understanding

Project aims to combat ‘soundbites and clickbait’ and provide trusted sources for public and policymakers

US surgeon general Vivek Murthy talks to reporters at the White House about misinformation concerning Covid-19 vaccines. Photograph: Chip Somodevilla/Getty

Kevin O'Sullivan
Fri Jun 28 2024 - 16:20

A new Science Media Centre (SMC) operating on an all-Ireland basis will attempt to combat misinformation in news media and foster a deeper public understanding of science, according to its founders.

Opening this week, the SMC Ireland will be run as a pilot initiative for a year, testing whether it could act as a vital resource for Irish journalists and in turn the public, chief executive of SMC UK Fiona Fox said.

It will proactively offer access to commentary from leading scientists, particularly those based in the Republic and Northern Ireland, and to accurate scientific data on topical issues such as climate change, food production and vaccines, she said.

Highlighting the need for a centre in Ireland providing independent commentary and analysis, she said. “Our experience in SMC UK and in SMCs around the world underscores the importance of scientists engaging in media to improve science reporting. Misinformation is on the rise, and in a world saturated with soundbites and clickbait, it’s crucial to support accurate reporting and empower the public and policymakers to discern trusted sources.”

READ MORE

UCD director of research Triona McCormack said there had never been a more important time for science and researchers to participate in the debate around our society’s future, “and participating in mainstream media is a great way to do this. It’s important that we bring our knowledge and expertise to the debate”.

[ AI-driven misinformation now world’s biggest short-term threat, World Economic Forum warns ]

Prof Mark Lawler, associate pro-vice-chancellor and professor of digital health at Queen’s University Belfast said an All-Ireland SMC would be timely, particularly given recent publicly funded initiatives such as the Shared Island Unit, the Higher Education Authority’s North South Research Programme and the All-Island Cancer Research Institute. It will also “provide an opportunity to discuss and debate key areas of science and research that have societal impact”, he added.

Ireland SMC will be based at Airfield Estate in Dundrum, Co Dublin. Its chief executive, Claire Mac Evilly, said their ambition was to be Dublin’s sustainable food hub, with education as a cornerstone. “Hosting SMC Ireland aligns perfectly with our mission to inform the public through fact-based science and by setting a positive example. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this vital initiative, providing invaluable support to journalists and policymakers.

“The SMC will be a one-stop-shop connecting them with top scientific experts from all over the island and in doing so, the SMC is fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights.”

SMC Ireland’s objectives include championing higher standards in science reporting, improving science literacy in news media and providing the wider public and providing policymakers with evidence-based information on topical controversies through the news media.

This pilot centre, modelled on the successful not-for-profit SMC established in London in 2002, will operate as a multi-funded initiative, ensuring independence through contributions from various sectors, including universities, science-based companies, science funders and research institutes including Science Foundation Ireland and the EPA.

Airfield Estate will manage donations through a restricted fund. A dedicated press officer, Adam Murphy, has been recruited to manage the centre. More than 90 people from media, science and research agencies, universities, government departments, State agencies and policymakers were consulted on setting it up.

Kevin O'Sullivan

Kevin O'Sullivan

Kevin O'Sullivan is Environment and Science Editor and former editor of The Irish Times

LATEST STORIES