Sir, - I share the views of many of the recent critics of RTE's coverage of some major events. I did not understand some of the options taken and, overall, felt disappointed at what I would regard as poor handling of a big opportunity.
That said, I think this performance is out of character and I would hate the barrage of criticism to eclipse RTE's normal high standards. I would hate it even more if this criticism were to denigrate in any way the powerful role RTE need to play in the lives of this country's people.
Joe Mulholland (Opinion, January 7th) talked of a "broadcasting miracle"; whether or not his language is over the top, I think people should his points seriously. Above all, we need to do our utmost to ensure our people are provided with a public service broadcasting organisation that is re-sourced and supported to provide people with the unbiased information and quality opinion they need to make good decisions about the kind of society they want to have.
We are handing over our freedom to an array of powerful influencers with very strong vested interests who decide what we think and what we want. To be truly free we need to educate people and prepare them to withstand this new invasion. Our public service broadcasting organisation has a critical role to play in this battle for people's minds and should be supported to play this role. It is a small price to pay for our freedom, our identity and our society.
I believe RTE is taking seriously the challenges is faces and we should not let some localised criticism distract us from the larger issue. - Yours, etc., Brian F. Smyth,
The Commons, Fairyhouse Road, Ratoath, Co Meath