RTÉ’s Outsourcing Playbook: What It Means for Irish Public Service Media
During a recent Oireachtas committee hearing, RTÉ Director‑General Kevin Bakhurst outlined a sweeping plan to outsource non‑core productions such as the Lotto draw and potentially the long‑running soap Fair City. While radio, sport, news and current affairs stay “in‑house,” the broadcaster is testing a hybrid model that could reshape Irish television for the next decade.
The “Hybrid” Production Model Explained
RTÉ is exploring two pathways for Fair City: a fully independent external producer or a mixed “hybrid” arrangement that keeps editorial control within the public service while handing technical execution to private firms. More than seven or eight high‑quality providers have already expressed interest, with formal expressions of interest expected next summer.
Industry analysts point to the BBC’s recent outsourcing of regional news output as a comparable case where cost efficiencies were achieved without compromising public‑service values.
Financial Impact: Voluntary Exits and Savings Projections
RTÉ has trimmed its workforce by roughly 95 staff this year—65 voluntary exits and about 30 resignations/retirements—part of a five‑year goal to reduce headcount by 400. The voluntary scheme has already generated €6.2 million in annual savings, projected to total €30 million over five years.
“The point is not about hollowing out the organisation,” Bakhurst said, emphasizing a focus on financial sustainability rather than short‑term cuts.
Digital Transformation: New Apps, Audio Services, and HR Systems
Beyond cost‑cutting, RTÉ is investing in technology. A new news app and an audio platform with “rewind” capability are slated for launch in the second half of next year, aiming to capture younger, mobile‑first audiences. Additionally, a modern HR system will roll out in 2026, streamlining recruitment and employee engagement.
These moves echo the global trend toward multi‑platform delivery among public broadcasters.
Decentralisation: Taking RTÉ Out of Dublin
Deputy Director‑General Adrian Lynch disclosed a target to relocate 25 % of staff permanently outside Dublin by the end of the five‑year plan. The strategy seeks to diversify talent pools, reduce Dublin‑centric operating costs, and strengthen regional representation in programming.
Programming Decisions: Eurovision, the Toy Show, and Audience Values
RTÉ’s public stance on not broadcasting the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, due to Israel’s participation, received “strong public endorsement.” Bakhurst framed the decision as “values in action,” reinforcing the broadcaster’s role as a cultural conscience.
Meanwhile, the famed Late Late Toy Show’s start‑time shift sparked debate, with Bakhurst likening the change to “getting rid of the Angelus.” Such programming tweaks illustrate RTÉ’s balancing act between tradition and evolving viewer habits.
Future Trends Shaping Irish Public Service Media
1. Increased Reliance on Independent Production Companies
As RTÉ leads the charge, other Irish broadcasters are likely to follow suit, contracting out game‑show formats, documentary series, and niche sports coverage. This shift creates a robust market for independent Irish producers, boosting the sector’s GDP by an estimated 2‑3 % over the next five years.
2. Greater Emphasis on Data‑Driven Content
With new apps and analytics platforms, RTÉ will be able to track audience engagement in real time, informing commissioning decisions and ad‑free revenue models. Similar initiatives at Australia’s ABC have shown a 15 % increase in viewer retention after personalisation features were introduced.
3. Sustainable Staffing Models
The voluntary exit scheme underscores a broader industry move toward flexible staffing—combining permanent core teams with project‑based freelancers. This hybrid workforce can adapt to shifting audience demand without the overhead of a large, fixed payroll.
4. Regional Content Amplification
Decentralising staff paves the way for more locally produced news, cultural shows, and sports coverage from the provinces. Expect a rise in region‑specific content on platforms like RTÉ Regional Radio Revamp, enhancing community relevance.
FAQ
- Will RTÉ stop producing Fair City altogether?
- No. The broadcaster is evaluating whether to keep it fully internal, move it entirely to an independent producer, or adopt a hybrid model that blends both approaches.
- How much money does the Lotto draw cost RTÉ each year?
- Exact figures aren’t public, but Bakhurst indicated it is a “high‑cost” operation, prompting the decision to outsource it for greater efficiency.
- What is the expected surplus for RTÉ in the next two years?
- RTÉ reported a €5.3 million surplus for 2024 and aims to deliver larger surpluses in 2025 and 2026, without seeking extra government funding beyond the existing €725 million package.
- How will staff decentralisation affect job security?
- While the move creates new opportunities outside Dublin, the overall headcount reduction plan means some positions will be phased out. The focus is on retaining core public‑service functions.
- Is the new audio app free for listeners?
- Yes, the upcoming audio platform will be free, with an optional premium tier planned for ad‑free, on‑demand content.
As RTÉ navigates the twin pressures of fiscal prudence and audience expectations, its upcoming decisions will likely set the benchmark for public service broadcasters across Europe.
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