The Labour Party leader, Mr Pat Rabbitte, has called on the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) to explain its decision yesterday to "stifle" normal debate on current affairs issues at what he said was the behest of Fianna Fáil.
Mr Rabbitte was referring to the BCI''s request that commercial radio stations pull a story about SIPTU's opposition to the Government's decentralisation programme following complaints from the party. The BCI said the decentralisation reports could have influenced voters' election choices today.
Mr Rabbitte said the issue was "a matter for disquiet".
"It is not the first time in recent months that I have been approached concerning decisions of the BCI. For example, North West Radio which was awarded the best local radio laurel last year, has lost its licence.
"It is claimed there has been no transparency surrounding the decision, or justification advanced." Mr Rabbitte said it was incumbent on the BCI to explain publicly the reasons behind its decision.