Big turn out at Save Radio Foyle meeting held in Derry’s Guildhall this month which was addressed by Mayor Sandra Duffy
Mr. Smyth was responding to correspondence from Ms. McLaughlin.
In his letter, Mr Smyth said: “We understand the importance of BBC news provision in the Foyle area and
also its value/relevance to a region-wide audience.
“We want to maximise the reach, impact and audience benefits of our weekday radio news programme and to enhance the BBC’s digital coverage of stories from, and about, the North West.”
Said Ms McLaughlin: “I am really disappointed and, to be honest, quite disgusted at the response of the BBC to my correspondence.
“It is simply disingenuous to cloak the gutting of Radio Foyle in a false pretence that the cuts announced by the BBC will enhance its offering for the North-West.
“To state that these decisions reflect ambition for Foyle and its continuing output is to insult the intelligence of the people of Derry.
“Moreover, terming these shameful cuts to a much-loved radio station as a “savings and renewal plan” is just outrageous.
“Everyone at the BBC will be very well aware by now of the sustained negative reaction in Derry and across the North to their plans.
“The recent actions of the organisation in relation to Radio Foyle have seriously damaged confidence in the BBC in our city.
“It can only be put right by the BBC reversing its decision to cut Radio Foyle,” added the Foyle MLA.
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