This decision, combining direct Exchequer funding and the existing TV licence fee, was approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday after extensive discussions on the broadcaster’s funding. An Post, responsible for collecting the €160 annual household fee, will also receive €6 million to enhance its collection service.


Government opinions varied on whether to abolish the TV licence fee. Taoiseach Simon Harris expressed that increasing the fee would be unpopular with the public. On his way to the Cabinet meeting, Harris denied that Martin was overruled regarding the funding decision.

Martin, who had previously criticized a hybrid funding model as potentially problematic, preferred direct Exchequer funding. She stated that the government’s decision brings certainty to RTÉ.

“While there has been much debate on how to secure a stable future for RTÉ, my priority as Minister for Media has always been to ensure sustainable and publicly acceptable funding for RTÉ,” she said. “Today’s agreement provides financial stability for RTÉ, along with reformed fee collection methods. This is unprecedented.”


The plan allocates €225 million in funding to RTÉ for the next year, increasing to €240 million in 2026 and €260 million in 2027. An additional €22.2 million will be allocated for other public service projects in 2025, including €10 million from the Exchequer for Media Fund schemes, up €4 million from 2024.


The Department of Media reported that net TV licence sales in 2023 amounted to €123 million, with 93% allocated to RTÉ and 7% to the broadcasting fund as legally required.


Ministers committed to deciding on a future funding model for RTÉ within this government term, following a decline in TV licence fee revenues after a financial and governance crisis at the broadcaster. In response, RTÉ director general Kevin Bakhurst pledged to reduce top earners’ fees, invest in digital technology, and cut spending by €10 million this year.


Harris highlighted two significant changes: a substantial increase in public funding and multi-annual funding certainty. He emphasized that asking taxpayers to pay more through an increased licence fee would have been unacceptable. He also acknowledged the importance of funding other public service broadcasters.

Amid misinformation, Harris stressed the need for properly funded public service broadcasting and commended Martin’s efforts. “Catherine Martin has worked extraordinarily hard on this situation and has delivered for public service broadcasting by securing multi-annual funding,” he said.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin stated that maintaining and strengthening the licence fee collection system would provide RTÉ with an essential independent revenue stream, crucial for media independence and democracy. He also noted that while direct Exchequer funding would improve, ongoing reforms at RTÉ are necessary. Retaining the licence fee system is vital, he warned, as future pressures on the Exchequer could impact direct allocations to RTÉ.