If you were just watching the Saturday Night Show, you'll have seen what we're talking about.
Brendan O'Connor was interviewing Labour TD Aodhan O'Riordain about his time as a politician and his plans for the National Drugs Strategy. During the interview, Brendan stopped him and asked him to remove a pin on his jacket.
Initially taken aback, the TD complied and then announced that it was a 'Yes' pin, to which O'Connor replied, "You've just made it worse."
Amazingly done @AodhanORiordain - just shows how petrified RTÉ are of #MarRef!! pic.twitter.com/hd9qAUPtXf
— Scott De Buitléir (@scottdebuitleir) May 9, 2015
There's already been a significant backlash against RTE and Brendan O'Connor since the event.
Complete Farce. BAI does not require 50:50 makes a mockery of it all. Immature nonesense By Brendan O'Connor https://t.co/QjyWV1rnvh
— Sabina Brennan (@timelesstotty) May 9, 2015
Just reading of Brendan O' Connor asking @AodhanORiordain to remove yes badge. RTE should be ashamed of selves tbh. #marref #satnghtshow
— C Murphy (@Dodslaw) May 9, 2015
Cannot believe @AodhanORiordain was just asked to remove his @YesEquality2015 pin from his lapel that's balance gone feckin mad#satnightshow
— Siobhán (@WellNowUniverse) May 9, 2015
RTE recently issued an internal communique to its staff and contractors to refrain from discussing or campaigning on behalf of either side of the campaign, due to the issue of balance in the national broadcaster.
In 2013, Brendan O'Connor's interview with drag queen Panti Bliss became national headlines when members of the Iona Institute brought legal action against RTE. The state broadcaster paid out €85,000 to the members involved.
Via Twitter