Irish Examiner view: We must work towards zero tolerance of gendered violence

Charlene Masterson's courage not only sends a vital message to other abuse survivors, it also edges us just a little bit closer to zero tolerance

Charlene Masterson, 32yrs, daughter of David Masterson, speaking to the media outside the Criminal Courts of Justice after her father was jailed for 17 years. Picture: Collins Courts

It is a shocking indictment of the level of violence — very often gendered — in our society that broadcasters now warn listeners and viewers that they may find the details of certain news stories upsetting. They regularly add that content may be unsuitable for a younger audience.

Such a warning went out on some channels before survivor Charlene Masterson spoke out eloquently, bravely, and selflessly, about being abused by her father David Masterson for more than seven years. He was jailed for 17 years.