Suzanne's Story

After publishing stories about the murders of two British soldiers, investigative journalist Suzanne was issued a court order to hand over her mobile telephone, computer records and notes on the Real IRA. As Northern Ireland editor of the Sunday Tribune, Suzanne argued that handing over the notes would put her life at risk and those of her family as well. She also argued that it would compromise the protection of her sources. 

The court recognised that the complying with the court order would have threatened Suzanne and her family's lives, and compromised the protection of her sources. The judge concluded that “the concept of confidentiality for journalists protecting their sources is recognised in law”, including under the Human Rights Act. 

(Breen v Police Service of Northern Ireland 2009)