Liveline tried to ‘manipulate opinion’

THE Broadcasting Complaints Commission (BCC) has now upheld four complaints against an RTÉ Liveline programme for breaching the terms of the Broadcasting Act.

The programme in question (February 12) was found to have failed in its duty to be impartial concerning the issue of gay adoption, and did not afford journalist Hermann Kelly fair right of reply to criticisms of his pro-family views.

The significance of the BCC decision cannot be overstated. RTÉ maintains that its vision is “to grow the trust of the people of Ireland as it informs, inspires, reflects and enriches their lives”.

This trust has been breached by an unprofessional attempt to manipulate public opinion.

There is a tendency, frequently mentioned, in some media quarters ‘to try to shout down’ anyone who doesn’t agree with them. Denying a voice to pro-family views is a new form of censorship. That this should be done, in particular, by a programme which likes to present itself as the voice of the people brings an Orwellian feel to our airwaves.

Following the general election, the country is digesting the consequences of being a democracy — government by the people. This anti-democratic activity on the part of the public broadcaster, however, is edging us more towards a state of ‘mediacracy’ — government by the media.

Dónal O’Sullivan-Latchford

National Executive

Family and Media Association

Alberione Media Centre

Newtownpark Ave

Blackrock

Co Dublin