Other Reporting & Statistical Information

Audience Council

Section 96 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 established the RTÉ Audience Council on a statutory basis. It provides a voice for the viewers and listeners with regard to RTÉ’s output and delivery on its public remit. It advises the RTÉ Board on specific issues relating to RTÉ’s public-service remit and audience needs.

The members represent a diverse range of interests and backgrounds and are appointed by the Board of RTÉ, taking into account the requirements of the Broadcasting Act 2009. The RTÉ Board also appoints one of its members (currently Dr P.J. Mathews) as an ex officio member of the council.​ The membership of the council on 31 December 2021 is as follows:

Further information on the Audience Council and its members is available at https://about.rte.ie/inside-rte/rte-audience-council/

RTÉ Fair Trading Report 2021

RTÉ is committed to ensuring that its trading activities adhere to the principles of fair competition and are operated within the framework of both EU and national legislation. In addition, RTÉ has considered it appropriate to implement its own policy and procedures, the RTÉ Fair Trading Policy and Procedures which are published on the RTÉ website.

The Fair Trading Committee was established to oversee the implementation of the Policy and Procedures. It is a sub-committee of the RTÉ Board. The members of the sub-committee at the year-end were Deborah Kelleher (Chair) and Susan Ahern, who replace Ian Kehoe with effect from 16 September 2021. This sub-committee is responsible for the independent oversight of the fair trading policy with regard to its implementation; with the ability to conduct periodic reviews of the policy as well as a review of the complaints procedure. The Fair Trading Officer, Eleanor Bleahene, reported directly to the sub-committee during 2021. The Fair Trading Officer continued to provide advice and guidance to relevant areas in RTÉ on fair trading matters during 2021.

No complaints were received during 2021.

Report under Section 22 of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014

Section 22 of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 requires RTÉ to publish an annual report relating to protected disclosures made under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014. In accordance with this requirement, RTÉ reports that one protected disclosure was received during the year ending 31 December 2021. This legacy matter did not require a formal investigation and was communicated to the relevant department for review. No further action was necessary.