Dear Editor, There seems to be a strong anti-Catholic bias in RTÉ, very subtle sometimes, and on other occasions quite aggressive in language and tone. The sad story of the young woman with an unwanted pregnancy was the opportunity for RTÉ to rehash the abortion controversy with the finger pointed at the cruelty of pro-life people and consequently the Church.
The recent announcement of Cardinal Seán Brady’s retirement was the occasion for RTÉ to reissue the old and monotonous anti-Brady story. No mention of course of the good works of Ireland’s leading churchman. The ongoing ‘mother and baby homes’ saga was ample opportunity for RTÉ to resurrect the well-established propaganda of the “sadistic” nuns. When the Government-sponsored McAleese enquiry published its findings so favourable to the nuns in the Magdalen homes, RTÉ was very restricted and subdued in its reports.
I complained to RTÉ about the non-reporting of the annual powerful anti-abortion march in Washington, US, by over 500,000 people of all religions and none. The reply more or less stated, we are not in the business of reporting marches! Yet full coverage and vivid reports has been given to the gay and lesbian parades in different countries.
Yours etc.,
Fr Con McGillicuddy,
Raheny,
Dublin 5.