Could a publisher afford to support Bill Goodwin in a protecting sources' case now?

It was good to see Bill Goodwin and his solicitor Geoffrey Bindman reunited last night and speaking out in favour of Sunday Tribune journalist Suzanne Breen who is fighting for the right to protect material which could identify her sources. (see posting below). Goodwin and Bindmen were involved in a seven year fight to protect sources which finally ended in victory at the European Court. Speaking at a rally supporting Suzanne Breen last night, Goodwin made the point that the case cost his then employer, Morgan Grampian, £250,000. He said: "I cannot imagine another employer being so generous at the moment."
Breen also made the point that the recession had left the press in Ireland financially vulnerable and the Sunday Tribune would have to carefully consider the costs in the case if it became a drawn out affair.
While legal costs remain staggeringly high, the media is facing severe financial restraints during its worst recession for years. This must be having an impact on what can be broadcast or published and how far the press and broadcasters can go in defending stories in the courts.
Another point made at last night's meeting was the impact of anti-terrorism laws and the way they are being used against journalists.
Jo Glanville, of Index on Censorship, said that while Bill Goodwin's case had set a precedent and there had been other victories in protecting sources, like that of Robin Ackroyd, police were increasingly pursuing journalists' material as part of counter terrorism operations.