RT On Target To Achieve Over 0% Saving On Top 0 Presenter Fees

RT On Target To Achieve Over 30% Saving On Top 10 Presenter Fees 27 March 2013: RT today releases the audited figures for the fees of the highest-paid presenters for the years 2010 and 2011. RT is also disclosing the latest agreed fees for the highest-paid presenters whose contracts have now been negotiated.

In 2008 RT paid 4.45million in fees to the ten highest-paid presenters. Based on the latest negotiated rates, the projected fees of the highest paid presenters in 2013 is expected to be in the region of 3 million, which is a reduction of in excess of 30% compared to 2008 levels. This is a delivery of RT 's publicly stated commitment to reduce top talent fee payments by in excess of 30% compared to 2008 levels.

The figures attached illustrate the progress RT has made and savings achieved in relation to presenter fees for the four published years of accounts.

In addition to these figures, RT is making available the latest agreed fees* for 2012-2013 for a range of presenters. These reflect the extent of savings achieved in this regard.

The agreed fee for Marian Finucane (Montrose Services) is 295,000, representing a reduction of 48% against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2008 fees).

The agreed fee for Late Late Show presenter Ryan Tubridy (Tuttle Productions) is 495,000, a 32% reduction against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2011 fees).

The agreed fee for the services of Miriam O'Callaghan (Baby Blue Productions) is 211,167, a reduction of 36% against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2010 fees).

The services of Joe Duffy (Claddaghgreen Ltd) have been agreed at 300,000, a 27% reduction in fees against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2008 fees).

Latest agreed fees for Eamon Dunphy are 106,000, which is 67% less against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2008 fees).

Latest agreed fees for Colm Hayes are 170,000, 21% less against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2009 fees).

Latest agreed fees for Brendan O'Connor are 158,400, which is a 31% reduction against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2011 fees).

Latest agreed fees for George Hamilton are 168,350, a 23% reduction against highest earnings 2008-2011 (2008 fees).

In addition to changes in fee levels, RT has also agreed increased levels of annual broadcast output with a range of presenters, ensuring that RT has the flexibility it requires to enable it to operate with maximum cost efficiency.

In 2011 the Director General, Noel Curran, committed to reducing top presenter fees by 30% on 2008 levels. He said: Today's release sees RT achieve our commitment. The reductions come as part of a comprehensive programme of reform across the organisation, with increased levels of efficiency and resourcefulness at its core. RT , like the general public, continues to hugely value the contribution our presenters make to our public service.

The total Top 10 presenter payments represents just over 1% of RT 's operating costs in 2012 and approximately 2% of personnel related operating costs. RT has reduced its 2012 operating cost levels by over 100m compared to 2008 levels, which is a reduction of 24%. In 2012 RT completed a substantial organisational restructuring programme, which targeted a reduction in RT 's 2013 operating costs of almost 30% against 2008 costs. RT 's 2012 financial statements are in the process of being finalised and audited, and will be made available in due course.

Click to access Top Ten Presenter Fees Table

*Latest agreed fees are not necessarily the same as final annual earnings as contract start dates may vary and total earnings can only be calculated at year end.

*Some contracts for top presenters are under negotiation or have not yet fallen due for renewal.

* Latest Agreed Fees with Contractors are not applicable to employees. Employee presenters received reductions in pay in 2009 in line with other staff.

*Figures for contractors represent fees payable, not salaries; pension provision is a matter for the individual contractor.

LINK:	http://www.rte.ie/about/en/press-office/press-releases/2013/0410/38065...
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