Ray D’Arcy Reveals Shock Over RTÉ’s Unexpected Decision to Not Renew His Contract
Broadcaster Ray D’Arcy has expressed significant surprise over RTÉ’s unexpected choice not to renew his contract. He described feeling “blindsided” by the decision and criticized the handling of the situation.
RTÉ’s Contract Decision
In a conversation with The Irish Times, D’Arcy revealed that he was instructed not to inform his team or listeners about his departure from the network. He characterized this directive as placing him in an “unsustainable” position. D’Arcy shared that a senior RTÉ manager acknowledged the broadcaster’s “brutal” treatment of him.
Conflicting Statements Regarding Notification
The controversy escalated when Patricia Monahan, RTÉ’s director of audio, stated that D’Arcy had been given three months’ notice of the non-renewal, which is set to take effect after December 31. Monahan emphasized that all presenters were made aware that contract renewals were not guaranteed during her tenure, which commenced last year.
D’Arcy, however, refuted these claims, insisting that he received “no forewarning” regarding the contract decision. He recalled a meeting with Monahan on September 29, where he was informed directly about the non-renewal of his deal.
- Presenter: Ray D’Arcy
- Contract Expiry: December 31
- Date of Notification Meeting: September 29
Ultimately, D’Arcy’s experience raises questions about the communication practices within RTÉ and how they handle such significant decisions concerning their staff.
