Broadcasters get in flap over Twitter as perils of social network site discussed
Ryan Tubridy and Marty Morrissey were discussing the perils of the social network.
They were particularly critical of internet trolls — anonymous people who could destroy people’s confidence and reputation.
Both broadcasters said they loved reading newspapers, especially because the stories were written by named journalists. Sports broadcaster Morrissey said he admired journalists who signed their name to stories about him.
“Sometimes it might be unfair, but at least you know who is writing about you. These trolls are just impossible,” he said.
Just over a year ago, Tubridy bid adieu to his 60,000 Twitter followers and closed his account.
The presenter had been the subject of very strong criticism and even personalised attacks on Twitter. However, when he closed his account he insisted it was because it was too time consuming.
“For a long time it was fun. It was like a pleasant party and then the bad guys came along and they wrecked it for everyone hiding behind stupid names,” said Tubridy.
Morrissey’s Twitter account, @MartyM_RTÉ, has just short of 11,000 followers. However, another account @Marty_Morrissey, which states it is “in no way affiliated with Martin Morrissey” has more than 40,000.
Morrissey said there was both a positive and negative side to Twitter.
“I’ve made lots of friends. I am even surprised that I have 50 followers, never mind 11,000,” he said.
However, Morrissey, who was speaking on the Tubridy Show, said the fake account was not a true reflection of his personality. “There is a lot of crude commentary and bad language on the fake account. That’s not me,” he said.
Tubridy said people could be “completely moronic” when it came to tweets.
