RTÉ 100 – Celebrating 100 Years of Public Broadcasting in Ireland in 2026

At 7.45pm on 1st January 1926, the precursor to RTÉ, then 2RN, delivered the fledgling new Irish state’s first public radio transmission.

From those first crackling transmissions to the wide range of audio, video and social media services which are now part of daily life, for 100 years, public service media has remained a trusted and essential voice in Irish life.

Across that century RTÉ, in its guises as 2RN, Radio Éireann, Teilifís Éireann and latterly RTÉ, has been at the centre of Irish life, informing, engaging and entertaining the nation across an expanding range of services.

For a century, RTÉ, as Ireland’s national public service broadcaster  has helped shape our national identity, telling our stories, good and bad, in English and in Irish, celebrating our achievements, supporting creative talent and bringing people together for important national moments, cultural, political and sporting – and preserving these valuable shared memories.

In 2026, RTÉ will mark 100 years of public broadcasting in Ireland with a series of special broadcasts and performances – outlined below – as we look at how far we have come, but also where we are going.

Commenting on the year ahead, RTÉ Director-General, Kevin Bakhurst said:  “I am privileged to lead RTÉ as we mark an incredible 100 years and the special role public media continues to play in Ireland at a time when we face so much uncertainty and so many challenges in the world.

“While much has changed, the need for strong, independent and trusted public service media, available to everyone, has never been greater.

“These celebrations will inevitably look back at key events over the last 100 years, but will also focus on how RTÉ will deliver to audiences in the future, as we continue to challenge disinformation, back creative ambition and innovation, support Irish culture, reflect all of the country and its rich diversity, and bring people together for significant national moments that unite the country.

“I hope the programmes and performances we have put together below to mark this milestone are as celebratory as they are considered, prompting reflection and discussion on why public service media matters and why it is worth fighting for.”