RTE radio presenter Scott De Buitléir has announced his resignation from the national broadcaster over the upcoming Marriage Referendum.
The host who presents RTE’s sole show for the Irish LGBT community, Cosmo, has revealed today he’s left his role over he ability to report the way he wanted to on the equality debate.
Releasing a statement, he said: “I’m very, very proud to have been able to present and produce what eventually became RTÉ’s sole programme for the Irish LGBT community [Cosmo on RTÉ Digital Radio].
Resignation: Scott has announced his resignation from RTE | TWITTER
“Over six years is a long time to spend on a radio show, though, especially as a volunteer.
“Recently, with the onset of the Marriage Equality Referendum on May 22, RTÉ has been keen to ensure that they cannot be seen as being biased towards either side of the issue,” he admitted.
“Running an LGBT radio show on the national broadcaster, therefore, has become close to impossible.
“While RTÉ aims to maintain balance on the issue, I was left with avoiding the topic until closer to polling day, when we could’ve had a carefully-planned debate on the show,” he said.
Goodbye RTE: The presenter hosted RTE’s sole Irish LGBT show | TWITTER
He then added: “Despite trying it for a short while, I eventually couldn’t bear denying that this plan meant missing out on reporting the various events, advocates and news of the Yes campaign – the campaign fighting for the rights of those who The Cosmo was aimed at.”
Admitting that not being able to report how he saw fit, the RTE host felt avoiding the issue would make “a mockery of any LGBT programme”.
“Avoiding the issue until such a debate would’ve made a mockery of any LGBT programme, which is undoubtedly pro-equality by default.
“As for a debate, well – let’s face it: RTÉ has already been broadcasting plenty of debates on the issue lately.
“Whether or not they have been balanced is a question for someone else to answer,” he added.
“Either way, my personal feeling is that certain No campaigners have been given far too much national media attention than they are due.
“I couldn’t bring myself to adding even more illogical hate speech to the airwaves. With that in mind, I’ve decided to finish up my time with RTÉ Digital Radio.
When contacted by Goss.ie, Dan Healy head of 2FM said:
“RTÉ confirms that Scott De Buitléir has decided to leave RTÉ Pulse after six years. The Cosmo, presented by Scott De Buitléir, has been part of RTÉ Pulse’s schedule since the station launched in 2008.
“Scott has played some great dance music over the years. We wish him every success in the future.”
