A Tangled Web

AND THEY SAY SATIRE IS DEAD?



It's funny how some of the most vicious attacks on individuals comes from alleged ever so caring post modern liberals. Thus it is with this distasteful headline in Newton Emerson's "Portadown News" mocking Ian Paisleys health with the oh-so-witty and subversive heading "Oh for god's sake hurry up and die."



Let's discuss our Newton for a few seconds. A self-confessed Ulster Unionist Trimble-loving type - his almost manic hatred of the DUP, and Dr.Paisley in particular, has served him well. He is now established as one of those "token" unionists who gets to scribble in the likes of "The Irish News" and "The Irish Times." He is much loved by the local TV media. He's a bit of a rascal, a scamp, but sure it's all in good humour. Unless you happen to consider his spineless form of "unionism" craven. Then, he's mabe not such a great guy.



Ian Paisley has clearly been unwell. I have no idea what afflicts him, but if he were my father, a headline from Mr. Satirical Emerson entitled "Hurry up and die" would seriously miff me. Tamed unionists may be the talk of the town but from where I sit they're not worth listening to.