RTÉ’s latest annual report offers a sharp snapshot of a broadcaster still deep in restructuring mode. In one of the biggest developments in media Ireland this week, more than 300 staff applied for a voluntary redundancy scheme last year, but just 67 exits were ultimately approved, underlining the scale of change still unfolding at the national broadcaster.
The figures, drawn from RTÉ’s annual report, show the organisation spent €8.5 million on exit packages for those accepted under the scheme, while also suppressing 30 roles. The broadcaster said these combined departures are expected to generate annual savings of €8.4 million as it continues a longer-term workforce reform plan.
What RTÉ’s Latest Numbers Mean for Media Ireland
The redundancy programme is part of RTÉ’s commitment to reduce headcount by up to 400 roles between 2025 and 2030, a key plank in its post-scandal overhaul. While interest in the first scheme was high, the number of accepted applications was far lower than the volume received.
Key takeaways from the report include:
- More than 300 applications for voluntary redundancy
- 67 staff accepted, with total exit costs of €8.5 million
- 30 additional roles removed through suppression
- Estimated annual savings of €8.4 million from 97 departures
For observers tracking the Irish media industry, the numbers suggest RTÉ is trying to balance reform with operational continuity rather than pushing through a blunt reduction in staffing.
Surplus Grows, but Pressure Has Not Gone Away
RTÉ recorded a surplus after tax of €22.5 million last year, a notable rise from €5.5 million previously. According to the broadcaster, the improved position reflected disciplined cost control and the deferral of some projects until 2026.
Director general Kevin Bakhurst said the result came from “highly effective cost management and proper financial planning,” a line likely to feature heavily in future media news Ireland coverage as RTÉ seeks to rebuild confidence.
Other financial details also stood out:
- EBITDA rose to €30.2 million from €18.2 million
- Commercial revenue edged up to €158.6 million
- Total public funding reached €224.8 million
- Licence fee sales have fallen by nearly 20 per cent since 2022
That last point remains a major concern across the media industry Ireland conversation. Even with State support softening the impact, the long-term funding model continues to face scrutiny.
Consultancy Costs, Pay Levels and Legacy Liabilities
The report also highlights areas likely to fuel fresh debate in Irish media circles. Consultancy spending doubled to €4.2 million, while restructuring costs reached €4.1 million. At the same time, the number of staff earning €230,000 or more rose from three to 10.
Senior management now dominate RTÉ’s top earners list, with nine executives among the 10 highest-paid staff. Kevin Bakhurst was the broadcaster’s highest-paid individual, receiving €339,538 including pension contributions and allowances.
Meanwhile, RTÉ also set aside €16.5 million for an ongoing issue linked to workers previously classified as contractors rather than employees. It paid €3.6 million last year to the Department of Social Protection and Revenue in connection with that controversy, and separately has made cumulative payments of €1.5 million tied to an ongoing Revenue audit.
The Bigger Picture for Irish Media
This is more than a redundancy story. It is a case study in how a major public broadcaster is attempting to restore trust, cut costs and steady its finances while facing commercial and political pressure. For anyone following media Ireland, RTÉ’s next voluntary exit scheme later this year could prove just as significant as the first.
As media Ireland watches the next phase unfold, the central question is no longer whether RTÉ will change, but whether it can do so fast enough without weakening the public service role it was built to serve.
Image Courtesy: The Irish Times
Credit/Courtesy for the Article: The Irish Times
