Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 December 2023
53. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she has had discussions with RTÉ in relation to their new strategic vision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53576/23]
View answerWhile it is a requirement for RTÉ to prepare periodic Statements of Strategy as part of their statutory obligations, owing to the events of the summer and the erosion of trust in the broadcaster, it was vital that RTÉ set out how it would work towards re-building trust and confidence in the short and medium term.
Government had acknowledged that interim funding for RTÉ would be required, taking account of the recommendation of the Future of Media Commission and NewEra assessment, but also recognised the importance of RTÉ setting out a clear vision for its future before final decisions on funding could be made.
On 9th November I met with the DG and Chair of RTÉ who briefed me on the contents of the Strategic Vision, prior to it being discussed at a townhall meeting with staff in RTÉ and then published on 14th November.
The Strategic Vision demonstrates a renewed commitment to public service broadcasting, and addresses key areas such as governance reforms and cost efficiencies. This is vital as RTÉ seeks to rebuild the trust of the Irish public and has enabled the decision to grant interim funding.
A vital part of this will be providing value for money as well as financial, oversight and governance reforms. RTÉ have already implemented a number of these reforms and will continue to do so while being informed by the findings and recommendations of the independent expert advisory committees, which Government established in July.
The Strategic Vision also sets out a New Vision for Public Service, including a focus on enhanced news and current affairs programming, a Disinformation Correspondent role and increased levels of Irish language programming. They will also increase nationwide production with investment in their regional operations, as well as increasing the commissioning of content from the independent sector.
Public service media and the content it provides is a vital pillar of our society and our democracy. The awful events in Dublin two weeks ago demonstrated again that access to impartial, trustworthy and independent media is more important than ever, particularly as we witness the growth of disinformation and misinformation.
The Strategic Vision will inform the development of a more detailed Statement of Strategy to show how RTÉ will meet its public service aims. The process which is ongoing, will involve wide ranging consultation by RTÉ, including with its staff, and the detailed Strategy will then be examined by Coimisiún na Meán.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Deputy, in her capacity as Chair of the Media Committee, for the ongoing and constructive engagement of the Committee on these matters.
