A reporter for the 9Network has been required to issue an apology after posting “Pro-Choice” images on her personal social media account.
Melbourne-based Channel 9 journalist Lana Murphy posted images on Twitter and Instagram from the Saturday pro-choice rally which she attended on behalf of the network.
In one image she appears to be laughing while holding a protest sign with the message; Mary (The Virgin) Should have had an abortion.
However, after a considerable backlash from a section of social media users, the network moved to council the journalist on the importance of appearing impartial.
In a statement released by the network on Tuesday, Lana Murphy apologised to anyone offended by the image;
“In my role as a journalist, I always strive to remain impartial and respectful to either side of rational debate.
On Saturday, while reporting on the pro-choice rally, I was photographed being passed a sign made by one of the attendees.
The words on the sign and my subsequent posting of that image on my personal social media account has caused offence to some in the religious community.
This was not my intention, and I wholeheartedly apologise to those that were hurt.
I acknowledge that in my professional role, it was not the appropriate time to appear to have chosen any side.
