Speaking from Leinster House this evening, Deputy Mattie McGrath, leader of the Rural Independent Group of TDs and member of the Oireachtas Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht Committee, expressed deep concern over the recent revelation regarding the underreporting of payments to Ryan Tubridy by RTÉ.
“This incident highlights a clear lack of transparency and accountability within our national broadcaster, which is deeply disturbing,” stated Deputy Mattie McGrath.
“The revelation also exposes a significant failure in RTÉ’s internal audit processes, which are meant to provide independent assurance of effective risk management, governance, and internal control. Given that RTÉ has received over €3.7 billion in taxpayers’ funding over the last two decades and is expected to revive a further €200 million this year, proper internal controls are crucial. The board of RTÉ must appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee immediately to provide a thorough explanation and be held accountable for their actions.”
“This incident has further eroded the public’s trust in RTÉ, necessitating swift action. I am calling on Minister Catherine Martin, who is responsible for RTÉ, to initiate an independent forensic accounting investigation into the broadcaster, including a review of its internal audit procedures. A comprehensive and unbiased examination of RTÉ’s financial practices is vital.”
“Furthermore, the investigation must encompass a broader review of RTÉ’s overall governance and compliance mechanisms. Any potential systemic issues contributing to this breach of trust must not be overlooked.”
“In the meantime, the RTÉ board must appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee to provide a full account of the underreported payments of over €300,000 to Ryan Tubridy spanning six years. Transparent disclosure is crucial, and the public must be assured that robust measures have been implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.”
“It is evident that RTÉ must uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct to regain and maintain public trust,” concluded Deputy Mc Grath.
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