RTE’S €1.7m news studio as it makes €20m losses
RTE is to spend €1.7million on a makeover of its news studio despite recording a €20million loss in its most recent annual accounts.
The cash-strapped broadcaster seeking tenders for the overhaul.
The makeover will include graphics, lighting and an automated camera system that will “give a new look to RTE News”.
It will also provide a second presentation area in the studio by installing a smaller news desk.
LED lighting will be used to create a “daylight colour temperature”, while a new video wall will allow for increased use of “augmented reality and graphics is templates”. It is the first major makeover of the RTE news studio since February 2009 when a €1.3million upgrade was unveiled.
Some “subtle but significant” improvements were also made in 2014 when the theme tune and graphics were changed Keelin Shanley and Caitriona Perry at a cost of €25,000. Last year, RTE announced up to 300 job cuts after recording a €19.7million deficit in its accounts for 2016.
The national broadcaster has seen a 24% drop in revenue since 2007.
Plans for an overhaul of the news studio follows significant personnel changes last January when Bryan Dobson and Sharon Ni Bheolain were replaced on Six One by Keelin Shanley and Caitriona Perry.
Prospective contractors have until July 9 to submit a tender for the upgrade works, according to the documents.
They state: “The project will provide the capability for the increased use of automation, augmented reality and graphics templates.”
The estimated value of the works is €1.7million plus VAT, which includes €600,000 for display screens, lighting, and TV equipment and €300,000 for robotics and installation.