RTÉ has found a satirical sketch about God that aired on New Year’s Eve did not meet a number of its own standards and regulations.
Its Editorial Standards Board says the piece, which depicted God as a rapist, caused undue offence and failed to respect people’s religious beliefs.
The sketch is to be removed from the RTÉ Player, while the broadcaster will also carry a public statement and apology.
Director General of RTÉ Dee Forbes has fully apologised for their failure to comply with the relevant guidelines and obligations.
A countdown show on New Year’s Eve included a mock news report about God being the latest figure implicated in a sexual harassment scandal.
The 23-second segment by satirical website Waterford Whispers News, prompted thousands of complaints as well as a stinging rebuke and condemnation by Catholic primate archbishop, Eamon Martin.
The piece aired featured former RTÉ newscaster Aengus Mac Grianna read …“The 5bn-year-old stood accused of forcing himself on a young Middle Eastern migrant and allegedly impregnating her against her will, before being sentenced to two years in prison, with the last 24 months suspended,“Following the news, movie producer Harvey Weinstein requested a retrial in Ireland.”
