The Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA) today called for the establishment of an independent media council to be created on a statutory basis.
Chairman of the PRCA, Mr Hugh Gillanders, said: "the importance of the freedom of the press is a much valued aspect of our democracy. It has played a crucial role in unearthing and highlighting some unsavoury aspects of Irish life.
"While that freedom must be safeguarded it must be carefully balanced against the reasonable entitlement of every individual to freedom and privacy in their personal lives.
"A media council could provide an appropriate mechanism where by legitimate grievance can be aired, evaluated and ruled upon, without the major outlay typically involved for all sides in such cases."
Mr Gillanders was speaking at a special industry luncheon to pay tribute to the Taoiseach Mr Ahern for his conduct during the Irish presidency of the European Union.
The Taoiseach and his special advisor, Mr Joe Lennon were both presented with awards.
Mr Gillanders said the Government's communications during the six months had been "excellent and innovative".
The Minister for Justice is planning to bring draft legislation setting up an independent press council to the Cabinet within four weeks. The National Union of Journalists and newspaper editors are against the setting up of a council on a statutory basis.