Two new Government-funded media schemes to support coverage of local democracy and court reporting through Irish and English are now open for applications.
The schemes were developed by Coimisiún na Meán and are open to applications until 17 September.
They aim are "supplement and enhance" the coverage of local authorities, along with district and circuit court hearings, according to Coimisiún na Meán.
It hopes "to support both the media sector and the creation of high-quality accessible public journalism across Ireland," it said in a statement.
The schemes were developed following feedback and submissions from organisations across the Irish media sector and have been established following a recommendation from the report of the Future of Media Commission.
Funding totalling €6 million will be provided by the Department of Media and applications will be open for submissions from journalists and media outlets - including broadcast, print and online platforms - in both the Irish and English languages.
Funding will also be made available for proposals for long form public interest journalism.
Minister for Media Catherine Martin said local and regional news are a "vital component" for democracy in the State.
"The schemes mark a new departure by the State to support public interest journalism at a time when traditional journalism is under pressure.
Ms Martin added: "All content funded will be made freely available to the public, not less than seven days after its initial publication, and will be uploaded by Coimisiún na Meán to its website."
Media Development Commissioner Rónán Ó Domhnaill said this scheme is "significant" and "a positive move for those who both work in the media and consume media".
"This the first opportunity for Coimisiún na Meán to offer direct support to promote high-quality and trusted journalism for local communities across Ireland on a platform-neutral basis. This is the first-time print and online news providers can be supported this way," Mr Ó Domhnaill added.
The new schemes are being introduced on a pilot basis and will be reviewed. A guide for applicants on how to make their submissions is available on the Coimisiún ma Meán website.
