…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
RTE Director-General Resigns Following Scandal Over Undisclosed Payments
Dee Forbes, the suspended director-general of RTE (the Irish national broadcaster), has submitted her resignation in light of the controversy surrounding undisclosed payments made to star presenter Ryan Tubridy.
Ms. Forbes, who was already set to step down from her role next month, expressed her deep regret for the upset and negative publicity caused to RTE, its staff, and the public.
She takes full responsibility for the events and offers an unreserved apology to everyone affected.
Accountability and Resignation
Ms. Forbes, recognizing her ultimate accountability as director-general, stated her resignation as an immediate action.
She emphasized her commitment to cooperating with the processes investigating the payments to Tubridy and clarified that she had always acted in accordance with advice received.
The motivation behind the negotiations was to honor the contractual obligations, and she asserted that both she and RTE acted in good faith throughout.
Ms. Forbes fully accepts responsibility for her role in the events leading up to the scandal.
Board Treatment and Impact
Ms. Forbes expressed disappointment with the lack of fairness, equity, and respect she experienced from the RTE board throughout the process.
She highlighted the detrimental effect this has had on her health and well-being.
Despite these challenges, she maintains her deep care for RTE, its employees, its mission, and its reputation as a public service broadcaster.
She intends to continue supporting RTE as it moves forward under new leadership.
A Resignation Amidst Controversy
Dee Forbes’ resignation as director-general of RTE comes as a response to the scandal surrounding undisclosed payments.
By taking accountability and apologizing for her part in the episode, she demonstrates a sense of responsibility and acknowledges the impact on the organization and the public.
The statement also raises concerns about the treatment she experienced from the board, suggesting underlying issues within the organization’s leadership.
As RTE moves forward with a new director-general, rebuilding trust and upholding transparency will be essential to maintaining its mission and reputation as a trusted public service broadcaster.