Minister Catherine Martin has called for a “reset” across RTÉ as the new Director General has laid out plans to restore trust at the scandal-hit broadcaster.
Kevin Bakhurst has been the person chosen to lead RTÉ out of the most tumultuous spell in its 60-year-plus history, and after a meeting with the RTÉ board, said he is committed to rebuilding trust with the public.
In an email sent to staff this morning, Bakhurst laid out his first major changes to RTÉ in his tenure, including the replacement of the Executive Board with an interim leadership team, changes in how the leadership team makes and accounts for significant decisions (with appropriate oversight by the RTÉ Board), a new Register of Interests; and “a commitment to drive cultural change in the organisation.”
Martin said that she welcomed Bakhurt’s plans, saying “confidence in RTÉ starts with its own staff and board, and from there it can start to build trust with the Oireachtas, its audience, the independent production sector, and the public.”
“A further essential change by the Director General is the announcement regarding a Register of Interests. This is crucial in terms of the transparency needed at RTÉ and to ensure accountability at the station.”
“Now is the time for a reset right across RTÉ,” she added.
The Chair of the RTÉ Board, Siún Ní Raghallaigh said “I believe RTÉ can be renewed following an unflinching examination of what has come to light in recent weeks.”
“We will reform RTÉ by putting in place new structures and procedures that will ensure those mistakes of the past can never occur again. And, in doing we can ensure an RTÉ that is robust in its unswerving commitment to public service broadcasting and rooted in a sustainable funding model.”
Star presenter Ryan Tubridy and agent Noel Kelly are due before the Oireachtas on Tuesday over their role in the scandal.