People Before Profit have accused new BBC NI director Adam Smyth of “bullying through” cuts at Radio Foyle but have vowed that the fight for the station and jobs goes on.
A PBP spokesperson said: “With the final episode of the Breakfast Show on Friday, BBC NI boss Adam Smyth bullied through vicious programming cuts for Radio Foyle.
“Smyth arrogantly rammed through cuts despite overwhelming cross-community opposition in Derry and across the north west. The views of people here don’t matter.
“As interim director vying for the top job, Smyth showed his bosses he’d get tough on the city of civil rights.
“The prejudice held by Smyth and his Tory BBC bosses against Derry couldn’t be clearer.
“The assault on Radio Foyle is symbolic of the treatment of city and north west over the last 25 years.
“Flowery words from international dignitaries marking 25 years of the GFA won’t cover-up the relentless downgrading of public services and the failure to address poverty pay, absent infrastructure, housing and university expansion.
“We continue to stand in full solidarity with Radio Foyle journalists and staff – and the NUJ.
“The future of a number of jobs remain unresolved.
“We commend everyone who supported the Save Radio Foyle campaign.
“The fight isn’t over. The Tories and Stormont are implementing vicious across the board cuts to public services, children’s education community organisations and workers pay.
“We need government with different priorities. Mass people power mobilisations are key.
“May 18 is an opportunity to demand change by voting for People Before Profit.”
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