Liudmyla Bortok joins the Cork Independent

Name: Liudmyla Bortok

Position: News Journalist

The Cork Independent is delighted to announce the appointment of Liudmyla Bortok as News Journalist, with responsibility for reporting on the work of Cork City Council under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.

An experienced and award-winning journalist, Liudmyla brings over 15 years of editorial and public affairs reporting experience to the role. With a strong background in covering local government, policy, and civic issues, she joins the paper as part of its commitment to delivering clear, accessible coverage of council activities that matter to Cork’s communities.

Originally from Ukraine and now based in Cork, Liudmyla has held senior editorial positions in national broadcasting in her native country, and has served in communications roles with international organisations such as the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM). She boasts an engaging reporting style, strong attention to detail, and an ability to communicate complex policy issues with clarity and accuracy.

During her career, she has covered institutional reform, policing and justice initiatives, and democratic governance, making her ideally placed to lead public reporting on Cork City Council’s decisions, meetings, and long-term development plans.

Commenting on her new role, Liudmyla said: “I understand the importance of communication—especially when it comes to pressing local issues. Communication works best when it goes both ways: it brings value to both sides and enhances trust and cooperation. Reporting about Cork and telling Cork’s story is not just a job—it’s a way to help boost the city’s potential and support the comfort and wellbeing of its residents.”

Jarlath Feeney, Managing Director of the Cork Independent said: “I am delighted to welcome Liudmyla to our editorial team. She brings a wealth of news and media experience to this role and will offer a fresh perspective on our coverage of news and events in Cork. We are confident that our readers will enjoy our enhanced news coverage, which will have a particular emphasis on the work of the City Council and its effectiveness in serving the people and communities of Cork.

“I want to acknowledge the support of Coimisiún na Meán in funding this journalist position through the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme,” he added.

Editor of the Cork Independent Brian Hayes Curtin said: “Liudmyla can hugely add both to our coverage of Cork City Council and our general news coverage. She will be a huge asset to our editorial team.”

This role was funded by Coimisiún na Meán undertake the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.