I heard in late November of the untimely death of LMFM broadcaster Michael Reade and I was dumbfounded and shocked. I had not heard from him for some time and just checked the LMFM website. I knew he was off sick back in August as he had texted me in response to my text about a Palestinian solidarity event and I had replied wishing him a speedy recovery and hoping it was not serious. Due to subsequently being busy at college, I missed his piece on LMFM when he bravely informed listeners about his terminal illness.
Here is a link to that broadcast – https://shows.acast.com/lmfm-michael-reade-show-podcasts/episodes
Michael’s last interview, which was aired the day after he died is here – https://shows.acast.com/lmfm-michael-reade-show-podcasts/episodes/the-michael-reade-show-tuesday-22nd-of-october-2024
The celebration of Michael’s life is here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYhOIa1l2Pw
Michael interviewed me and other members of the Irish Anti-War Movement (IAWM) on multiple occasions over the last 15 years or so. This included Sara O Rourke, Glenda Cimino, John Molyneux (RIP), Michael Youlton, Mark Price and myself. There may be others. He gave us a voice to express our horror and critique of the pervasiveness of war and militarism and a chance for us to promote the peaceful resolution of conflicts and the preservation and strengthening of Irish neutrality. He could be robust with questioning but was always fair and one sensed his own unease at the propensity of political leaders to pursue war rather than peace; policies that threaten the future of humanity and our fragile planet. We thank him for giving us a voice and we will miss him terribly.
We acknowledge also that he gave a voice to multiple other noble causes.
We extend our sincere sympathy to Maggie, Chris and all his LMFM family and also to his wife Sandra, his son Luke and his wider family and close friends.
Rest in Power Michael.
Jim Roche, Secretary & PRO IAWM
30 December 2024
