RTÉ has an opportunity to “turn a page” on past scandals by following the recommendations of new reports brought before Cabinet today, according to the Tánaiste.

Micheál Martin said there is a desire from everyone in the organisation to “get back to work” and “move forward in a positive way”.

It follows payment scandals, Oireachtas Committees, high-profile sackings, and calls for increased funding from the national broadcaster over the last year.

Two of the reports brought before Cabinet today made over 100 recommendations for change, while the third examined the RTÉ barter account and off-balance sheet accounts.

'Warts and all'

The Tánaiste said it’s important governance at the station is improved.

“That’s the purpose of the report, a 'warts and all' analysis of RTÉ,” he said.

“It’s also an opportunity to turn a page and move forward in a positive way in terms of the future of public service broadcasting of the broadcaster itself.

“I’m sure many people working there are anxious to get on with their lives, get on with their work, but it’s important the governance structure is secure and improved.”

An RTÉ  staff protest at Montrose, 27/06/2023.   Photo: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

The Tánaiste also expects a positive response to the recommendations.

“In my view, there will have to be broad acceptance on principle of these recommendations,” he said.

“I’m not hearing of any significant pushback.

“To be fair to all parties, people will have to go through the details of the reports.

“Broadly speaking, the reports focus on the essentials of good governance and I would expect RTÉ will positively respond to accepting the recommendations.”

It’s understood RTÉ will have a number of weeks to view the reports and decide if it wants to accept the recommendations.

The recommendations include reforms on salaries and severance packages for presenters.

Main image: Tanaiste Micheal Martin addressing media in the courtyard at Government Buildings on July 7th 2022. Picture by: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie