Derry Girls star Siobhán McSweeney was recognised for her comedy performance at this weekend's BAFTA Television Awards but people were quick to point out a major omission from her acceptance speech in the final broadcast.
The Cork actor gave a mostly humorous speech after being presented with the award but the BBC edited out a sincere section of praise for the people of Derry that offered criticism of governments in Westminster, Dublin and Stormont.
Read more: Siobhan McSweeney praises Derry ‘despite leaders’ ignorance’ after winning Bafta
The BBC has been urged to explain their decision to cut the speech with viewers on social media calling it an act of political censorship.
Clips have been floating around the internet showing the full comments made by the Cork actor, demonstrating the broadcaster saved only 18 seconds by cutting out the line.
In the unaired segment, Siobhán McSweeney said: “To the people in Derry, thank you for taking me into your hearts and your living rooms.
"I am daily impressed with how you encompass the spirit of compromise and resilience despite the indignities, ignorance and stupidity of your so-called leaders in Dublin, Stormont and Westminster."
A spokesperson for the BBC told our sister website CorkBeo the cut was made due to time constraints.
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