We won't Bak out

Bakhurst keen to raise RTE's concerns with EBU

- BY LOUISE BURNE Political Correspondent

RTE will “absolutely not” pull Ireland out of the Eurovision song contest despite concerns about Israel's participation, Director General Kevin Bakhurst has said.

Mr Bakhurst wrote to the European Broadcasting Union on Wednesday seeking a conversation about Israel.

He said: “I am appalled by the ongoing events in the Middle East and by the horrific impact on civilians in Gaza, and the fate of Israeli hostages.

“Notwithstanding the fact that the criterion for participating in the Eurovision Song Contest is membership of the European Broadcasting Union,

RTE has nonetheless asked the EBU for a discussion on Israel's inclusion in the contest.