The appointment of the head of an alcohol-industry funded group to RTE's governing body would put the drinks sector in a position of influence within the State broadcaster, the head of a leading medical organisation has warned.
The nomination of Fionnuala Sheehan, chief executive of Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society (Meas), to the RTE board is being objected to by the President Designate of the Royal College of Physicians.
Prof Frank Murray, a Beaumont Hospital gastroenterologist, who treats patients daily who are ill from alcohol abuse, said the appointment of Ms Sheehan should not go ahead.
Ms Sheehan was nominated as a candidate for the board by the Oireachtas Communications Committee. A decision will be made on her appointment in February.
In a letter to Communications Minister Alex White, Prof Murray said that, as chief executive of Meas, Ms Sheehan has been vocal in criticising the Government's strategy on alcohol which advocates more controls. He said she has argued for the prioritisation of education, such as drinkaware.ie. This was launched by Meas in 2006 with the stated aim of bringing about a culture change in drinking habits.
Source: Eilish O'Regan, Irish Independent, 10/10/14
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