RTÉ defends 'satirical remarks' on Late Late Show as Sinn Féin calls ...

This comment was accompanied by images of Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and former party TD Brian Stanley, who resigned from the party last weekend.

Sinn Féin expressed concern over the use of the word "traitor," particularly as party leader Ms McDonald has previously been the target of death threats involving that term.

The party sees the comment as inappropriate and harmful in the context of ongoing threats.

In a statement, the party said: "Mary Lou McDonald has been the subject of death threats, where the moniker 'traitor' has been used.

"Repeating inaccurate, far-right tropes on the Late Late Show, weeks out from a General Election, can only be considered electoral interference. RTÉ should immediately apologise."

However, RTÉ has defended the remark, stating that it was part of a satirical monologue referencing the new television series Traitors, which features contestants facing challenges.

In a statement, the broadcaster said that "under Patrick Kielty's tenure, The Late Late Show has become more satirical and this is evident with an opening monologue based broadly around topical issues".

"This is now a well-established part of the format and there is an audience expectation that the show will open with a satirical take on events of the week," RTÉ said.

"In this instance, the presenter joked about recruitment for the new television series ' Traitors' which is based on a group of people facing, and being tested by, various challenges.

"That was the satirical context, given the recent controversies involving Sinn Féin."

RTÉ said "satire is a core part of freedom of expression," adding that its targets are often prominent figures and institutions.

The broadcaster highlighted that the segment also included a joke about the British royal family, reinforcing the comedic tone.

RTÉ acknowledged Sinn Féin's right to file a formal complaint and said information has been provided to assist with that process.