Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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In relation to the licence fee, a Supplementary Estimate was sought back in 2022. According to the figures I have here, it was in the region of €15 million, as I understand it. That was granted at the time. RTÉ has operated at a loss in five of the last six years. Income is down in the region of €100 million over a six-year period and costs are up €30 million in the same period. We know that land was sold out at Donnybrook. Borrowing almost hit the ceiling and as I understand it there is a statutory limit, which Ms Quill might confirm, of €100 million. I believe RTÉ is very close to that, at around €95 million. The organisation has run at a deficit in five of the last six years, income is down around €100 million, costs are up €30 million and land was sold, which is fair enough. I hope there was a good business case for that. Borrowing is at €95 million, up against the limit, and a Supplementary Estimate of €15 million had to be provided last later. There is a new Director General in place, Mr. Bakhurst, and I wish him well in the job. I am a big supporter of State broadcasting. Perhaps the representatives of RTÉ might not have thought that when they appeared before the committee but it is most important that we have objective reporting, news and current affairs. Some great work is being done, particularly by "Prime Time". The programme has highlighted very important issues in this country. I wish Mr. Bakhurst well in his job. Looking at the figures that I referenced and the balance sheet, if I was on the board of RTÉ I would be seriously concerned. The picture of the finances and the drift in RTÉ is not a pretty one. How big a priority is getting a handle on this for the Secretary General of the Department?