Sir, - I am writing to complain about the photograph on the front page of today's (September 6th) edition of The Irish Times which I find quite horrific. I do not believe there can be any justification for using such a photograph which will cause extreme distress to the victim's family (and his children in particular), is disrespectful to the victim (regardless of what crimes he may have committed in the past) and is offensive to the public in general.
In addition, I do not believe that my children and those of other families should be exposed to this sort of picture which will be very disturbing and distressing for them. The horror of this vicious and unjustified crime can be brought home without the need for this voyeuristic editorial approach which has more in common with "snuff" movies than professional journalism.
Frankly, I expect better from The Irish Times. I hope you will apologise to the victim's family personally. - Yours, etc.
Northumberland Avenue,
Dun Laoghaire,
Co Dublin.