Overhaul at RTÉ: Minister for Media Brings Forward Reports
Minister for Media Catherine Martin is set to present three crucial reports to the Cabinet, shining a light on the inner workings of RTÉ. The reports, commissioned by the Government, contain a total of 116 recommendations aimed at reforming practices at Ireland’s national broadcaster.
Among the key recommendations are proposals to appoint the Comptroller and Auditor General as RTÉ’s auditor, update legislation governing the RTÉ Board’s role, and revamp the approach to engaging and compensating presenters. The reports also call for a revision of RTÉ’s allowance system to ensure fairness and equity in severance schemes and staff exits.
RTÉ will have six weeks to review the reports and decide whether to accept the recommendations. Minister Martin expressed hope that RTÉ will respond positively, paving the way for the Cabinet to make a final decision on the broadcaster’s future funding.
The investigations revealed a siloed culture at RTÉ, alongside a complex governance structure. The RTÉ Board was found to lack visibility on crucial matters and sometimes accepted Executive decisions without proper scrutiny.
Professor Niamh Brennan led the review of governance and culture, while Brendan McGinty oversaw the examination of contractor fees and human resources. Additionally, Mazars, an auditing and accounting firm, completed a forensic examination of RTÉ’s controversial barter account and off-balance sheet accounts, with the findings set to be considered by the Cabinet.
Following the Cabinet’s assessment, all three reports will be made public, shedding further light on the necessary changes at RTÉ.