The paying public is the best director, and losing their support can be detrimental. Recently, the Ryan Tubridy scandal has resulted in the national broadcaster losing €5m in withheld license fees, leading to a crisis. To overcome this, RTÉ needs to shake up its atrophied schedules and bring down the astronomical salaries. The organization cannot rely on a government bailout as it has in the past.
The new director general, Kevin Bakhurst, understands the seriousness of the situation. Minister Simon Harris emphasizes the need for RTÉ to present a clear reform plan before receiving further taxpayer funding. This time, the initiative for change must come from within the organization. The judge presiding over TV license prosecutions criticized RTÉ for its elitism and the burden it places on the cost of living for individuals. Cabinet discussions have centered on a bailout figure exceeding €15m, but it must be contingent on restructuring and reimagining RTÉ’s role.
Like all media outlets, RTÉ must reinvent itself to survive in a competitive landscape. It must cater to the public while also adapting and inspiring. Building trust and engaging with the audience is vital, and RTÉ must restore and rebuild confidence to stop taking taxpayers for granted. The organization needs to move away from relying on state support and requesting additional funding whenever it faces financial challenges.
As Irving Berlin once said, “There’s no business like show business.” RTÉ has had the show, but now it’s time to focus on doing the necessary business or face failure.
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