Lots happens in the radio industry each week so here’s a summary of the week we just enjoyed.
Here’s What Happened
RTE shared their new strategy this week. While there isn’t a massive amount we didn’t know, it is worth looking at what’s on the horizon.
- RTE will cut 400 jobs over the course of the plan, significantly reducing its workforce.
- RTE Radio 1 Extra, Pulse, 2XM and RTEJR Radio will all close this year.
- A new daily RTE News Podcast will be launched in 2025. I hope this has high production values as it’s honestly something that isn’t hard to get right.
- Some shows like Fair City and the Late Late Show may move off site and involve independent producers. This is reportedly being resisted by unions.
- RTE Player will require people to sign in, and will get its own exclusive live streaming channels in time, as rTE focuses more on becoming a streaming service.
- New radio and news apps will launch next year.
RTE are pointing out that their ability to evolve depends on funding, so hopefully that argument can be put to rest soon too.
It’s a shame that such downsizing is required, but let’s hope it all works out.
Read the details of RTEs new strategy here
Radio stations are going mad for Taylor Swift.
Earlier in the week a massive Taylor Swift sign appeared on a beach. Today FM shared the post and got tons of views, later revealing that they were behind the installation in the first place.
The Ireland Taylor’s Version sign is just one example of stations getting on board with this weekends concerts, as many stations have been giving away tickets. GoLoud even had a dedicated Taylor station for a time.
Hope everyone enjoys the tour if they get to attend. Reviews have been good so hopefully the rest of the run is as enjoyable for people.
Read about the Today FM sign here
Finally for now, the deaths were announced this week of two major RTE broadcasters
RTE Sport commentator Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh passed away aged 93 on Tuesday. He had a career spanning 61 years, with his first gig coming back in 1949. He had many legendary quotes over the years and was a hugely respected broadcaster.
Also hugely respected was Tommie Gorman, who passed away this week aged 68. He had a hugely successful career in journalism over 40 years, retiring from RTE in 2021.
This story really is sad. Both men had a huge impact on broadcasting in Ireland, and left behind an incredible legacy. May they both rest in peace.
Read the statements from RTE on their press site here
Quick Bits
Independent broadcasters say news could disappear if they don’t get funding
Northern Irish broadcaster Sean Rafferty has stepped down from BBC Radio 3
Lottie Ryan says she knew she’d only be on 2FM drive for five weeks
RTE, The Irish Times and The Independant have been blocked in Russia
And that’s the summary for this week. Come back to radio land next week for more radio news📻 and be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for more fun from the world of radio.