RTE on Brolly: ‘Ill-conceived attempt at humour’ will not be tolerated again

RTE have released a statement addressing comments made by Joe Brolly on the Sunday Game, and said a repeat performance “cannot and will not be tolerated”.

Brolly caused a furore when discussing Cavan football.

“Somebody said it's as ugly as Marty Morrissey, their football,” he said. “Maybe I should apologise to the people of Cavan”.

Presenter Michael Lyster was clearly unhappy with the remark and Brolly made a half-hearted attempt at an apology later in the programme.

But Ryle Nugent, Group Head of RTE Sport, made a strong statement on the incident today.

He said: “I have spoken with Joe Brolly about the comments he made in relation to RTE Sport’s GAA Correspondent and commentator Marty Morrissey on last weekend’s Sunday Game Live broadcast.

“Joe is acutely aware that his ill-conceived attempt at humour was both inappropriate and extremely hurtful and had no place in any broadcast”.

Nugent added that it had been made clear to the outspoken Derryman that “similar comments in any future broadcast cannot and will not be tolerated”.

The statement also: “Joe Brolly has spoken at length with and offered a heartfelt apology to Marty Morrissey which was graciously accepted.

“All parties now consider this matter closed.”