Daily Ireland, a new pro-nationalist newspaper based in Belfast, went on sale yesterday with a circulation target of 20,000 copies.
The tabloid will have "a pro-Irish, pro- peace process" agenda of pluralism, openness and inclusiveness, said one of its main backers, the former GAA president, Mr Peter Quinn. Supporters have invested about €5 million in the newspaper, which retails at 90 cent or 50 pence.
Its core circulation area is Northern Ireland, Cavan, Leitrim, Sligo, Louth, Monaghan and Dublin. However, it will be available throughout the State from nominated newsagents.
It is part of the Andersonstown News Group, which also publishes the North Belfast News, Lá and Mr Liam Hayes's latest publications, the Lucan Gazette and Blanchardstown Gazette.
Mr Quinn said the newspaper had the youngest production team of any newspaper on this island. "That's what gives us an edge and that's why we believe this paper is going to be successful".
The editor is Maria McCourt (34), former editor of South Belfast News.
Mr Quinn said market research had found a real need for a nationalist newspaper that would not be a mouthpiece for any particular political party.
The newspaper's publisher, Mr Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, said Daily Ireland was different from other newspapers in three ways. It had a very attractive and vibrant "21st-century look"; it wore its heart on its sleeve; and it would reflect and respect the views of all constituents, he said.
It would be inclusive, he added, and he pointed out that Mr Trevor Ringland, a prominent unionist, was a contributor.
Columnists include Damien Kiberd, Danny Morrison, Jude Collins and Tom McGurk. Yesterday's issue carried opinion columns from the former Green MEP, Ms Patricia McKenna, and Senator Mary White (FF). Senator White has also invested in the newspaper.
The newspaper has a staff of 40, of whom 30 are journalists. It sees the strongest opportunity for sales in the greater Belfast area and west of the Bann river. It aims to attract readers from the Irish News, the Belfast Telegraph and the Irish edition of the Daily Star.
