Martin: ‘I keep leaders informed at all times’

Did the minister discuss with the DG RTÉ’s claim there was ‘confusion’ within the Department over what was relayed re exit payments to departing executives? Does she believe Mr Bakhurst should have spoken up during the meetings on Monday and Wednesday?

A ‘As reported, Minister Martin met briefly with Mr Bakhurst on Friday evening and both are committed to continuing to work together to chart a path forward for RTÉ.’

Minister Simon Harris called for aggregate exit payments to be published by RTÉ on Friday. When does she expect these?

A ‘These are usually published by RTÉ after the annual audit. However, the minister has asked that this be accelerated and RTÉ are reviewing this in conjunction with their auditors.

If the minister received assurances on Monday that the Board had no role in relation to the exit packages why then did she seek the same information on Wednesday?

A As the minister outlined at her press conference on Friday, a cover letter submitted to the minister on Wednesday with the legal advice which RTÉ published on

Thursday referred to the roles at both leadership level and, where relevant, the Board, in relation to termination payments which prompted the minister to seek further clarification on the matter.’

The public found out about the controversial confidentiality clause in Richard Collins’s exit package last Saturday. Did the minister inform the Cabinet and/or party leaders about the confidentiality clause last October?

A ‘The minister has continued to keep the Coalition leaders informed at all times with regard to any pertinent issues.’

5 Which officials were at the meetings with RTÉ?

A ‘The minister was accompanied by a number of officials including the Secretary General and Assistant Secretary.’