Dear RTE
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to express my sadness at the apology made by RTÉ News (Nine News, 24th March 2009) for their coverage of the ‘Brian Cowen nude paintings’ story. I also wish to express my anger at the censorship and revisionism undertaken by the broadcaster in the removal of the news piece from RTÉ.ie.
The story in question might be considered trivial however it did have uniqueness and a national relevance to make it news-worthy. In its reporting RTÉ was entirely accurate and was therefore within its right and remit to cover the incident.
RTÉ has apologised for the offence caused to An Taoiseach Brian Cowen, his family and his office however it was not the broadcaster’s place to do so – any offence caused was due to the actions of the artist and not those who spoke about his or her work.
It is unsettling to think that RTÉ sees it fit to apologise for the actions of others.
RTÉ is now failing its vision to ‘grow the trust of the people of Ireland as it informs’ (PDF file) and has also undermined its value of operating ‘in the public interest, providing News and Current Affairs that is fair and impartial, accurate and challenging’.
As a journalist I understand the importance of RTÉ in leading quality journalism in Ireland while as a journalism lecturer I am acutely aware of its importance in setting a benchmark for students and graduates.
Whatever damage RTÉ may have done in broadcasting this story it has done far more to the journalism industry by bowing to political pressure so quickly and completely.
To think that RTÉ sees it fit to apologise for doing its job does not inspire hope in the broadcaster at a time when we need it most.
Yours sincerely,
Adam Maguire
This is the first formal complaint I’ve ever written but I think it is necessary. Perhaps it will do nothing but it is possible that the more people voice their concern now, the less likely RTÉ are to give in to unwarranted pressure in the future.
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