Jewish Chronicle, July 21 2011
A sports channel has apologised after a football commentator referred to “Jews Hill – where you sit if you’re too tight to pay”.
Former Northern Ireland footballer Alan McDonald made the comments during the Crusaders vs Fulham game in Belfast, broadcast last week on Setanta Ireland, which had taken the feed and commentary from broadcaster Premier Sports.
John Mann, chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group against Antisemitism, said he had complained to Ofcom about the incident.
“It is unbelievable in this day and age that such jaw-dropping ignorance was displayed,” he said. “We will be seeking a meeting with Setanta and Premier Sports and have referred this to Ofcom.”
Richard Sweeney, general manager of Premier Media, which owns Premier Sports, said that Mr McDonald had been working for the satellite service for the first time in a freelance capacity.
“The comment was totally unacceptable and deplorable and in no way representative of Premier Sports,” he said. “We apologise for the regrettable comment and convey our sincerest regret for any offence caused.”
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