RTÉ has published a report on the Irish Language Working Group, which has revised its designation of RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta and made it a core service with a distinct remit.
The report identifies two key areas that can be taken to improve services for Irish and bi-lingual audiences on all platforms and services. The first is concerned with audiences, media content, digital media and public service identity; the second with implementation, engagement and analysis.
In 2012, Director-General Noel Curran tasked the working group, comprised of staff from across RTÉ and led by Board of RTÉ member Patricia Quinn, with preparing policy recommendations. The group received submissions from the general public, statutory and civil society bodies with an interest in the Irish language.
In its recently published Five-Year Strategy ,RTÉ set out a clear rationale to characterise both core and complementary services, all of which are essential if the state broadcaster is to meet the varied needs of multiple audiences and fulfil its obligations specified in legislation.
Following the review by the working group and reflecting on the response by the BAI to RTÉ’s Five-Year Strategy, RTÉ has revised its designation of Raidió na Gaeltachta and made it a core service with a distinct remit.
Speaking about the report, Curran said: “The final report and recommendations of the Working Group set out a clear future for the Irish language within RTÉ. The recommendations have been approved by both the Executive and the Board of RTÉ. Implementation will now be the focus.”
The full report can be read here
