Secretary of State hits out at abuse of BBC’S Nolan
THE Secretary of State has condemned those behind online abuse targeting broadcaster Stephen Nolan.
Brandon Lewis took to Twitter saying that “the kind of threats and trolling we hear too much about is simply the act of cowards”. He added that Mr Nolan had shown “class and strength in calling out the abuse”.
Mr Lewis’s comments come as the BBC Radio Ulster presenter said that the “police process has begun” in relation to the barrage of abuse he suffered online for covering a story on coronavirus breaches at a GAA game. Dungannon Clarkes won their first county senior football title in 64 years at Healy Park in Omagh on Sunday, defeating Trillick after extra-time and a dramatic penalty shootout. There were scenes of jubilation with supporters invading the pitch to celebrate with their team.
On Monday Mr Nolan opened his show describing the actions of supporters and players as “disgraceful”, asking what the clubs or GAA were going to do and if fans should be allowed into sports grounds.
On Tuesday he told his listeners the abuse he received after the programme was broadcast had “crossed a line”.
“There are a number of people who called for me to be beaten to death yesterday in Dungannon. There were others who were encouraging people to kick my teeth in, hit me over the back of the head and I just think it’s gone too far,” he said.
Justice Minister Naomi Long also condemned the abuse, describing it as “absolutely unacceptable”.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood joined the condemnation, saying it was “shocking and absolutely wrong”, adding that Mr Nolan had “solidarity” from his party.
UUP leader Steven Aiken said the trolls were “cowardly” and called on the authorities to take action.
The PSNI said: “We do not discuss the security of individuals and no inference should be drawn from this.”
The BBC said threats against staff were taken “extremely seriously”
“BBC staff shouldn’t be abused for doing their jobs. And our journalists should be able to conduct their work without fear or intimidation. These are basic requirements in a society that values press freedom and democratic debate,” it added.