BBC Director Adam Smyth appeared on BBC Talkback yesterday to defend his decision to cut Radio Foyle programming.
Responding, People Before Profit Foyleside Councillor Shaun Harkin said: “As interim BBC boss Adam Smyth rammed through a vicious attack and Tory engineered cuts on Radio Foyle that left workers and people across the North West stunned.
“He was asked to come to Derry to defend his actions – but he refused. He’s a coward.
“His reward for punishing Derry and the North West was appointment to the top job on a permanent basis.
“He used Radio Foyle and Derry to demonstrate he’d be willing to do whatever the Tories running the BBC asked.
“Showing that you’re willing to get tough with Derry is nothing new but shows he has utter contempt for people here.
“The push back against what Smyth put in train continues.
“We stand in full solidarity with journalists and workers at Radio Foyle – and all BBC workers facing uncertainty across the North.
“There’s clear community support for Radio Foyle and for any action initiated by the NUJ.
“We will not remain quiet when Derry and our public services are slapped in the face,” added Cllr Harkin.
Tags: