‘For many years the level of presenter pay at RTÉ got a little bit out of control’ – The Irish Times
Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTÉ, is navigating a period of significant change following scrutiny over presenter pay and a broader need to restore public trust. Director General Kevin Bakhurst has asserted the organization is successfully attracting top talent despite implementing a new salary cap, limiting presenter earnings to his own basic salary of €250,000.
Addressing Past Concerns
The move to cap presenter salaries came after issues with transparency surrounding the pay of former presenter Ryan Tubridy. Bakhurst stated that presenter pay had “got a little bit out of control” and contributed to a “lack of trust with the audience and with politicians.” He indicated that audience research now suggests this is no longer a prominent concern.
Presenter Departures and Replacements
The salary cap’s impact on talent retention has been a point of discussion. Claire Byrne, who left RTÉ for Newstalk in 2026, expressed feeling as though the pay cap was a “wagging finger.” Bakhurst, however, clarified that Byrne was not “admonished” and that a pay cut would have been necessary had she remained. He maintained that RTÉ has not experienced difficulty filling key presenter roles, stating they “pay enough to get absolute top-class presenters.”
Editorial Independence
Bakhurst also addressed claims of “editorial nervousness” within RTÉ following the pay scandal. He refuted these claims, emphasizing the courage demonstrated by the broadcaster’s investigations and news teams in tackling challenging topics. He cited examples of considering coverage of issues like transgender rights and international events, such as those in Gaza and the Middle East, without shying away from difficult subjects.
Financial Restructuring and Future Funding
RTÉ is undergoing broader financial restructuring, including plans to reduce personnel by 400 over five years and potentially relocate production of programs like the Late Late Show and Fair City. The organization is seeking approval for a new voluntary exit program. Its current three-year funding agreement expires at the end of 2027, necessitating discussions about future financial support. RTÉ anticipates needing a similar level of funding—around €260 million, potentially adjusted for inflation—in the following years.
The resignation of Mari Hurley, RTÉ’s chief financial officer, to pursue a higher-paying role was acknowledged by Bakhurst as a reflection of the challenges in balancing executive and presenter compensation. He also noted that pay across the organization is being reviewed, with adjustments made in areas like Raidió na Gaeltachta where discrepancies were identified.
Contract Negotiations and Future Plans
RTÉ has not yet finalized a new contract with Patrick Kielty, the current host of the Late Late Show, whose initial three-year deal is set to expire this summer. Bakhurst expressed a desire to continue working with Kielty, stating he is “doing a great job.” He also denied reports that the RTÉ board pressured him to part ways with Ryan Tubridy, and confirmed he met with Tubridy for coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new salary cap at RTÉ?
No presenter at RTÉ will earn more than the Director General’s basic salary, which stands at €250,000.
How many staff members left RTÉ in 2025?
Approximately 100 people left RTÉ in 2025 through redundancies and retirements.
What is the status of RTÉ’s funding agreement?
RTÉ’s current three-year funding agreement expires at the end of 2027, and discussions about future funding will need to begin.
As RTÉ continues to navigate these changes, what impact do you foresee these restructuring efforts having on the future of Irish broadcasting?