The Late Late Toy Show in jeopardy – as RTÉ staff threaten to protest

However, bosses are currently in talks with trade union officials, as RTÉ staff have demanded a reversal of the decision.

The demands have resulted in staff contracts being extended to January 31, after management admitted that their lack of consultation before the announcement was in breach of guiding principles agreed with unions.

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Late Late Toy Show could be in trouble, according to a memo seen by the Sunday Independent.

Trouble: The Toy Show could be in jeopardy | VIPIRELAND.COM

 “It is envisaged that withdrawal from the requirements of these agreements and protests targeting The Late Late Toy Show will be on the cards if the decision to outsource YPP is not reversed,” the memo read.

Siptu’s campaigns and equality organiser Karan O’Loughlin has since slammed the timing of RTÉ’s announcement, as the Toy Show is set to air on Friday.

“It is fair to say there was no specific threat made by either party but the Toy Show is a core part of what RTE does for children.

“I think there is an understanding on their side that the announcement to cease production of children’s programming a week before a key plank of their children’s programming does not sit well,” she added.