It is often stated that journalism is a key component to maintaining a healthy democracy. That, in order to properly inform the citizenry and to hold our democratic institutions and representatives to account, our system requires transparency as well as individuals that are willing to dig deep to find the truth.

But do journalists today have the tools necessary to fulfill this important role? Does privatized media have room for in-depth reporting? Is there enough freedom in the press to ask the most difficult yet important questions? Is there strong enough will to cover important policies and issues that should be on the agenda in the lead-up to an election? And, do citizens even care to watch, listen to, or read the news when it is being reported?

During this session, Ms. MacNeil will also be joined by Kady O'Malley, Political Reporter and Parliamentary Correspondent.