RTÉ stars told not to accept gifts over €100 after fallout from payments scandal

RTÉ has introduced a ban on employees accepting expensive gifts valued at over €100 and has also told staff that they must declare any ‘freebies’ they receive over €50.

The state broadcaster has launched a new ‘Register of Gifts’ for employees and contractors where they are now required to declare gifts they receive arising from their work for RTÉ.

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This comes after the fallout from the RTÉ payments scandal last year where it emerged that stars were receiving free cars and other gifts such as concert tickets.

Dee Forbes and Ryan Tubridy. Pic: Colin Keegan/Collins

GAA correspondent and commentator Marty Morrissey became embroiled in the scandal when it emerged that he had had a free car for nearly six years, which he never declared to management.

Other RTE stars have benefited from their opportunities as social media influencers where they receive brand partnerships including Doireann Garrihy who collaborated with several companies when recently renovating her dream home.

Before picture of the bathroom. Pic: Doireann Garrihy/Instagram

RTE News reports that in a message to staff on Wednesday, RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst said: ‘Any gift with a realistic valuation of over €100 should not be accepted or if it must be accepted, then it is declared and becomes the property of RTÉ.’

After picture of the bathroom. Pic: Doireann Garrihy/Instagram

‘A gift is defined as anything given to a member of staff or contractor arising from their work for RTÉ for which they do not pay fair market value.’

Incoming Director General of RTÉ, Kevin Bakhurst speaking to media at RTÉ’s Main Reception (TV Building), Dublin. Pic: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

It also stated: ‘This includes the provision of services, tickets for events and entertainment.’

Another form was also launched on Wednesday for staff to declare a conflict of interest, with Mr Bakhurst stressing that filling it out will not impact staff’s ‘career prospects’ as it is only to ensure that RTÉ is informed.

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