Unions demand government support for RTÉ
Workers at RTÉ today called on the Irish government to match rhetoric about public service broadcasting with action to tackle the funding crisis at RTÉ.
Newly appointed director general Kevin Bakhurst welcomed trade union members, officers and officials gathered at the plaza for the event organised by the NUJ Dublin broadcasting branch and supported by sister unions Connect and SIPTU.
Emma O’Kelly, branch chair, stressed that the rally was directed at government and politicians who need to address the urgent need for reform of public service broadcasting in Ireland.
O’Kelly pointed to the NUJ’s long record of demanding proper financing of public service broadcasting based on a sustainable funding model.
Séamus Dooley, Irish Secretary said there were many people in politics and in the commercial sector, who were opposed to public service broadcasting. Government must be courageous in defending RTÉ and resist temptation to await the outcome of recently announced reviews before taking hard decisions to secure the future of public service broadcasting.
Cearbhaill O Siochain, RTÉ trade Union Group secretary
Members and officials gather at the plaza.
RTÉ staff call for public service broadcasting funding (rte.ie)
RTÉ staff hold rally at Montrose campus demanding action over future of national broadcaster.
Hear from Emma O'Kelly on why the rally was held and on the message for government.