Dil Wickremasinghe is launching a new show after her radio programme was cancelled by Newstalk last month.
The presenter had previously spoken out about George Hook’s comments concerning rape.
She also criticised the radio station’s treatment of female broadcasters, saying that she believed female presenters holding weekend slots was “connected to George Hook’s comments.”
Today, Wickremasinghe announced that she is to host a new weekly show concerning social justice and mental health issues.
Did you think I could be silenced?Never! Join me on @ThisHeadStuff on Fridays at 9am. #SparkingChangewithDil https://t.co/RcYNOTJPjq pic.twitter.com/nx3N0L4f0p
— Dil Wickremasinghe (@DilW) October 18, 2017
Wickremasinghe says her reasons for starting the show lie in her desire to give a voice to the voiceless.
“My decade long show was axed just weeks after I publicly spoke out about a fellow presenter’s views on rape, I am determined more than ever to continue my work as a journalist and advocate for the voiceless in our society.
“It has always been my personal belief that equality for one person is equality for all and have always regarded my work more than just a job but my own civic duty to inspire positive social change one conversation at a time.”
STATEMENT – My Newstalk carrier comes to an abrupt end after a decade. #goodbyeglobalvillage pic.twitter.com/1qHVWHS9zj
— Dil Wickremasinghe (@DilW) October 5, 2017
The presenter and journalist began working in Irish media back in 2006 and has over time noticed many disparities between the most vulnerable of society and those who are often given a platform to speak.
“Over time I became acutely aware that Ireland wasn’t as fair and equal as I first imagined.
“I met many marginalized people unable to live an authentic life or live life to their full potential because of who they were, what they experienced or where they came from.”
Wickremasinghe was highly praised for her decision not to broadcast her show, Global Village, following Geroge Hook’s controversial comments on rape.
In a statement, she said that she was looking forward to continuing her work “through different channels for change.”
