Radio Play On Abortion

Sir, - In 1997 I was considering several themes for a radio play

Sir, - In 1997 I was considering several themes for a radio play. I recalled having read that a foetus might have feelings and could react to external stimuli, and I decided to explore that theme.

The exploration led to my play Termination, a dramatisation of an abortion from within and outside the womb. The script was accepted by RTE, and the production by Daniel Reardon, was, in my opinion, quite superb.

In September 1998, the RTE Guide outlined RTE's forthcoming pre-Christmas drama schedule and included Termination, among plays by Jennifer Johnston and Maeve Binchy.

When, by December 1998, the play had not been broadcast, I made enquiries and was told that there were problems of "balance" and that a script might be commissioned from another writer to achieve that "balance".

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I have no doubt that the writers presenting the current dilemma affecting Kay and Malachy in Fair City would argue that they are exploring an ethical difficulty and are not pushing an agenda.

My play also dealt with an ethical difficulty and I would contend that I was not pushing an agenda. My silence, for two years, on such an emotive issue, attests to this. Thus, the "balance" - if such was ever required - has been struck, but my requests to RTE Radio to broadcast the play have not had a response.

I am not accusing RTE of censorship. It could, after all, have declined the script. There appears, however, to be some timidity about scheduling a date for broadcast.

This is the only public comment I intend to make on this matter. I am asking all media entities seeking further information from me not to do so and to respect my personal privacy. If RTE decides to broadcast the play, the work should speak for itself. - Yours, etc.,

Brian Comerford, Moore Street, Kilrush, Co Clare.