Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

As I said in my opening address, it is clear that there has been a shocking level of failure in governance and culture in RTÉ. That is why I have set in place two expert committees. It is not for me, as Minister, to direct revenue. On the governance issue, an expert advisory group is in place and it is looking at RTÉ's governance framework and organisational culture, is examining the system of internal governance, and is making recommendations on the changes which are needed to help restore trust.

Indeed, with regard to staff the Deputy has mentioned, my engagement with unions and the staff led to me broadening the scope to include a second examination that will review various matters including contractors' fees, HR, the use of short-term employment contracts at all levels and the employment terms and conditions. It will look at gender equality issues with regard to the existing recruitment and HR practices.

The scope investigation is a matter for the Department of Social Protection and RTÉ.

On the interim funding, it is widely known that there is an ask from RTÉ. I have said that NewERA has made a recommendation on that. I cannot actually reveal what that recommendation is but suffice to say that RTÉ will not be getting the full extent of its ask until I see the strategic vision, and evidence of reform and cost efficiencies.