PAC seeks more information from RTÉ on Gilroy appointment

The Dáil Public Accounts Committee plans to send a letter to RTÉ to request more details regarding the hiring of broadcaster Ger Gilroy. The Media Committee previously learned that RTÉ's sports department was dissatisfied with Gilroy's appointment due to his past criticisms of the network. RTÉ defended its hiring process and denied accusations of Gilroy being a "head-hunter."

However, the Public Accounts Committee has raised further questions about RTÉ's staffing and recent reductions. Fianna Fáil TD Séamus McGrath expressed that they seek a clear explanation of the hiring process and are concerned about the difficulties in achieving the required staff cuts. Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly criticized the Department of Culture, Communications, and Sport for withholding funding from RTÉ, which was allocated €240 million in October's budget, €20 million less than what was agreed upon.

Minister for Media Patrick O Donovan stated his displeasure with the pace of reform at RTÉ. Farrelly questioned the legality of the funding decision, emphasizing that it was clearly stated in the agreement. Comptroller and Auditor General Séamus McCarthy explained he is restricted in his ability to comment on RTÉ's situation before becoming its auditor.

The committee's chairperson, Sinn Féin TD John Brady, called the series of events following the budget a "bizarre chain" and expressed frustration over the situation.