RTÉ’s Director General Kevin Bakhurst has revealed that selling their Montrose campus “could be” an option in the future.
The broadcaster is scrambling to make serious changes amid the controversial payments scandal, which saw Ryan Tubridy’s salary inaccurately reported for three years straight.
Speaking to the Irish Independent, Mr Bakhurst said “everything has to be on the table,” as he attempts to deal with the fallout of the ongoing controversy.
Former Director General Dee Forbes had previously ruled out a move from RTÉ’s grounds in Donnybrook – where it has been based since 1961; however, Mr Bakhurst said it “could be” considered again.
“That was an option – an expensive one. It could be [an option in the future]. It’s very disruptive and it’s very expensive. ”
“Long term, it’s quite exciting but I don’t think it was a runner just because of the price tag.”
Elsewhere in his interview with the Irish Independent, Mr Bakhurst revealed that although he can’t see a case for selling off RTÉ 2FM, it cannot be ruled out.
When asked where he sees RTÉ in five years’ time, Mr Bakhurst said: “Number one, is where we have rebuilt the trust, where we are relevant to our audiences, where we’re fulfilling our public service remit, where we’re securely funded, and can be ambitious with our creativity, and where the people who work here feel properly valued and listened to.”
The Director General added “over the long run, it probably will be smaller, yeah, smaller and more agile”.
