Comedian David McSavage has insisted he has “no problem” going to jail over his TV licence.
The Dubliner, whose dad and brother were Fianna Fail ministers, is declining to foot the €160 bill in protest at the lack of innovative comedy on RTE.
“The courts like to make an example of middle-class people but I’m proud of the stance I’m taking,” he told the Irish Sun.
Fee no-go: David McSavage is refusing to pay his TV license fee | VIPIRELAND.COM
“We are paying RTE a licence fee to make comedy that’s funny and they are not doing their job.”
Opening up about a possible stint in Mountjoy, the TV star admitted he doesn’t fear being attacked by other inmates if sent to jail.
“In fact I would positively encourage bodily contact with other prisoners. If I enjoy it, I hope they don’t stop,” he admitted.
“Seriously, I have no problem doing a night or two in Mountjoy. I’ve been in prison before. I’m just hoping the other inmates are fans of The Savage Eye. And being a comedian, I won’t be a threat.”
Representing: David McSavage revealed he is set to represent himself in court | VIPIRELAND.COM
Meanwhile, the 49-year-old has decided to represent himself in court.
“I could have hired a barrister but instead I want to test the limits of our legal system,” he said.
“People have also offered to pay my licence fee but that’s not happening because there is a serious point to be made here.
“I believe RTE’s current output is appalling and they have no respect or passion for the craft of comedy.”
Doing time: David opened up about being in jail before for selling CD’s on Grafton Street | VIPIRELAND.COM
However this isn’t David’s first time before a judge – having ended up in a cell for selling DVDs of his Vicar Street show on the street.
“It was quite ridiculous when I was in the holding cells with the other prisoners and they started exchanging the reasons why they were inside,” he divulged.
“One said ‘armed robbery’ and the next ‘attempted murder’ but when it came to me, I said ‘selling my CDs on Grafton Street’.”
