Citizens are right to question and criticise RTÉ, Joe

Overrated Enda achieved nothing

Joe Duffy suggests that ‘the widespread hostility that RTÉ faces is bad for democracy’ (MoS, May 14).

This seems to suggest that criticism by citizens of a public broadcasting service paid for by those citizens is undemocratic.

At least it is good that some in the media recognise that such hostility exists but it does seem inappropriate that a broadcaster, well paid at public expense, should criticise the democratic right of citizens to question and criticise that public service.

Many, and perhaps the majority of the Irish public, consider that RTÉ is not providing a balanced reporting service, because they consider that some of its news and public affairs programmes too closely reflect the views of the Government or the views of elite minority sections of Irish society.

Across the western world we are experiencing a crisis of democracy, partly because the majority of people in many countries feel their governments and mainstream media do not represent their best interests. Democracy is a vital but delicate system of governance, all too easily shattered or usurped.

The media, including RTÉ, has an important role to play in protecting democracy but silencing criticism, as is happening in Russia, Turkey, Israel, the US and elsewhere, is the beginning of authoritarianism. Edward Horgan, Castletroy, Co. Limerick. THE glowing tributes paid to Enda Kenny in recent days have been ridiculous.

The man has been a thoroughly undistinguished leader. People credit him with turning the country around after the crash, but I don’t think he deserves any of that credit.

Most of the necessary post-crash reforms were imposed by the Troika, which had the power to bring some discipline to our lazy, amateurish political culture.

It’s notable that since the Troika left, things have quickly reverted to type.

We’re back to soaring pay awards for aggressive unions and the fiasco of Irish Water. Good riddance, Enda!

Maria Cunningham,