Minister Catherine Martin is again in the spotlight, this time due to her involvement in the resignation of RTÉ’s chairperson, Siún Ní Raghallaigh.
During a press briefing at Government Buildings, Martin expressed her disappointment in Ní Raghallaigh for providing inaccurate information about exit packages for RTÉ executives.
This ultimately led to Ní Raghallaigh stepping down after Martin failed to show confidence in her during an interview on RTÉ’s Prime Time.
Following Ní Raghallaigh’s resignation, the RTÉ Board swiftly requested a meeting with Minister Martin to address the situation. Martin revealed that the former Secretary General of her department couldn’t recall being informed about the approval of an exit package for former RTÉ CFO Richard Collins by the RTÉ Board.
According to Martin, there were discrepancies in what Ní Raghallaigh communicated to the department regarding approving these exit packages. Despite Ní Raghallaigh’s initial statements, it later emerged that she had indeed informed the department about the approval of the package for Collins.
This revelation raised concerns about transparency and accountability within RTÉ’s governance. Martin expressed her disappointment, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for accurate information.
Martin also clarified that she had discussed the matter with coalition leaders to keep them informed. Despite her preference to handle the matter privately, Martin felt compelled to address it publicly due to the evolving situation.
The RTÉ Board confirmed that the Remuneration Committee had approved Collins’ exit package, further validating Martin’s concerns. Meanwhile, Martin assured the public that she would appoint a new chairperson for RTÉ as soon as possible, with interim arrangements made by the RTÉ Board.
In an interview with RTÉ’s Six One program, Martin reiterated her intention to ensure transparency and accountability within RTÉ’s governance structure. She emphasized that her actions were not meant to force Ní Raghallaigh’s resignation but to address the need for accurate information and accountability.
Ní Raghallaigh, in her resignation statement, acknowledged the loss of confidence from Minister Martin and emphasized the importance of focusing on RTÉ’s funding model and transformation process moving forward.
The situation highlights the challenges and complexities of governance and decision-making within public institutions like RTÉ. It underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and effective communication in maintaining public trust and confidence.
