Independent TV producers concerned over RTÉ funding cut
The CEO of Screen Producers Ireland has warned that the Government's decision to withhold €20 million in funding from RTÉ could have serious consequences for independent television producers and audiences.
Independent television producers are expressing concern over the Irish government's decision to reduce funding for RTÉ by €20 million. Susan Kirby, CEO of Screen Producers Ireland, stated that this decision, made without prior warning, undermines the multi-year funding commitment agreed upon in 2024. She emphasized that this reduction could have severe consequences for both independent producers and audiences.
The funding for RTÉ was originally forecast to be €260 million for 2027 as part of a €725 million three-year agreement, but it has been reduced to €240 million, a decrease of €20 million. RTÉ Director-General Kevin Bakhurst rejected the government's claim that the pace of reform was slow, stating that this decision is unexpected and will impact their ability to deliver their five-year strategy.
Screen Producers Ireland, which represents independent producers across the film and television industry in Ireland, estimates that the creative screen sector in Ireland is a significant employer, contributing about €1 billion in gross value added and €540 million in economic contribution in 2025, with approximately 16,000 full-time equivalent jobs.
Written by urgent.news from RTE News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
