By Conor Sharkey

A Strabane councillor has heavily criticised proposals that could see more than half of BBC Radio Foyle programmes axed.

It emerged last week that jobs could be lost if proposals being considered by BBC radio chiefs in Belfast get the go-ahead. It is understood that programmes including Sean Coyle's afternoon show and Mark Patterson's popular current affairs slot could be replaced with existing Radio Ulster programmes.

Speaking to the Strabane Chronicle after the controversial proposals were leaked, a Radio Foyle insider said there was a real fear that the cuts could soon become a reality.

"It's a worrying time and we believe it could be the beginning of a slippery slope if these cuts are implemented. If they cut half the programmes now, we think in a year or two down the line the station could go altogether. So there are real concerns for jobs down here," they explained.

And speaking yesterday (Wednesday), Sinn Féin's Jarlath McNulty gave his backing to what he described as "A vital media outlet for the North West".

"All localised radio shows are a necessary tool in bringing relevant issues to the people and should not be interfered with.

"Radio Foyle is a well respected media platform and if anything it should be enhanced. You can't just starting cutting a service like this which is vital in providing local interest stories and voices.

"As politicians, sometimes we get a bit of flak but that is the job of local media outlets like Radio Foyle. It's a very important service and one I would like to see enhanced rather than slashed," councillor McNulty said.