RTE ASSETS MUST GO BEFORE ANY BAILOUT

Ministers warn broadcaster to downsize and be more efficient

- JOHN KIERANS

CASH-STRAPPED RTE will be forced to downsize and sell assets such as 2FM by the Government before it gets another penny.

Senior ministers are adamant there will be no blank cheque for the station and that a leaner, more efficient new look national broadcaster must emerge.

The RTE 2022 report is due to be presented to the Cabinet by the Media Minister Catherine Martin within weeks. Normally, the annual report would be rubber-stamped by the Cabinet but ministers are now planning to rigorously examine every aspect of it.