Former Leitrim Observer journalist becomes first female editor of 132 year old newspaper Reporter: '); '); The Southern Star newspaper in Co Cork has appointed Siobhán Cronin, who started her career in the Leitrim Observer, as its new Editor. This is a significant announcement as Siobhán will be The Southern Star's first female Editor in its 132-year history. The Southern Star is a West Cork-based, family-owned media company encompassing print, digital and creative design functions, and is the long-established, trusted source of news in West Cork. It is also one of Ireland’s best known and most respected regional newspapers, with a colourful history that includes having had General Michael Collins as a former shareholder.