The Irish government has approved interim funding of €56 million for RTÉ.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has confirmed this includes interim funding of €16 million, along with a further €40 million next year.
It’s understood the €40 million will be paid in two instalments following the publication of reports aimed at RTÉ’s reform.
The government has forecast a drop in licence fee income is set to cost RTÉ €21 million in revenue this year, and €40 million next year.
The broadcaster had sought €34.5 million in funding in Budget 2024, but was only allocated €16 million.
In a statement, Minister for Media Catherine Martin said RTÉ’s “strategic plan”, which is set to be published later today, “addresses key areas such as governance reforms and cost efficiencies”.
“This is vital as RTÉ seeks to rebuild the trust and confidence of the Irish public. I am acutely aware, however, of how difficult and challenging this is for the organisation, and particularly for its staff.”
Ms Martin added that the decision on funding “is necessary to ensure in the short term the continued operations of RTÉ”.
“However, a long-term reform of the public funding model is critical to ensure the national broadcaster is on a sustainable footing, and to ensure good quality public service broadcasting into the future. This will be addressed as a matter of priority for this Government,” the minister explained.
“Until a new long-term funding model is in place, it is critically important that people pay the TV Licence fee.”
“It is not only required by law, it underpins vibrant public service content which is of critical importance to our democracy and society.”
