RTÉ admits it was ‘a mistake’ to digitally remove Palestine necklace from programme

RTÉ has admitted it was “a mistake” to digitally wipe a Palestine necklace worn by a guest on Cheap Irish Homes. File picture, PA. 

RTÉ has admitted it was “a mistake” to digitally wipe a Palestine necklace worn by a guest on Cheap Irish Homes.

Claire Molloy, an accountant who appeared on the show, has lodged a complaint with RTÉ and Coimisiún na Meán.

Ms Molloy’s necklace was edited out of the programme entirely.

Ms Molloy told The Irish Times she would not have participated in the programme if she knew the necklace would be edited out of the programme.

The broadcaster has said it will review its impartiality guidelines following the incident.

“RTÉ has reviewed this and acknowledges that there was a mistake in the interpretation and application of our guidelines in this instance,” the national broadcaster said in a statement.

“These are judgement calls in a production process, and these edits were made in good faith and in an effort to adhere to obligations on impartiality and RTÉ’s guidelines on the undue prominence of symbols and emblems.

“RTÉ acknowledges that this matter could have been handled differently. 

“While RTÉ does not believe there is any regulatory contravention or breach of guidelines arising from this, we do acknowledge an excessively strict interpretation of them.

“With that in mind, RTÉ will review its processes and procedures for the application of its guidelines."

Ms Molloy featured in the programme with her partner Peter Foley on September 29 on RTÉ One.