A newly-published independent report prepared by Price Waterhouse Cooper shines a positive light on RTÉ’s contribution to the Irish economy in 2011 – with figures for 2012 coming later in the year.
According to the report, for every €1 spent on the TV Licence, RTÉ contributes more than double back into the Irish economy – which amounted to €384 million in 2011 before factoring in their tax contribution.
PwC’s findings were greeted with understandable enthusiasm by the State broadcaster.
Noel Curran, RTÉ Director-General, said: ‘Any creative economy relies on public and private organisations that nurture, support and give opportunities for talent to thrive and prosper. This report illustrates that RTÉ plays a unique and central role in Ireland’s creative economy, not only through the breadth of its broadcast and online output, but also by the direct and indirect jobs it sustains and the opportunities it gives to new writers, journalists, programme makers, performers and other creative professionals.’
Other findings in the report highlighted how 42% of RTÉ’s licence fee income goes back to the Exchequer in the form of taxes; that 75% of the Irish adult population are proud of RTÉ as an Irish brand; and that RTÉ supports approximately 3,550 full-time jobs.
Figures for 2012 will be available upon publication of RTÉ’s annual report later this year.