THE NATIONAL UNION of Journalists (NUJ) has said the closure of The Phoenix magazine is “another blow to media plurality in Ireland”.

Paddy Prendeville, editor of The Phoenix, confirmed the publication closed down on Tuesday after 43 years in business. Prendeville edited the bi-weekly political and current affairs magazine since 1984.

Speaking to The Journal, Ian McGuinness, NUJ Irish organiser, said that the union “was shocked to learn that The Phoenix is ceasing publication as of this week”.

“Our first concern is to ensure that members at the title are fully represented and advised during the liquidation process. This will be a stressful and trying time for all employees and contributors to the magazine,” he said.

He said The Phoenix has “played a pivotal role in investigative journalism in Ireland” for decades.

“Its loss will be sorely felt by its readers and the industry”, McGuinness added.

“This is yet another blow to media plurality in Ireland, which has seen regional and national titles disappear from the scene in the last 18 years,” he said.

“This closure should serve as a wake-up call for the government to urgently provide investment and relief for public interest journalism.”

The Phoenix was established in 1983 by the late John Mulcahy.