Fears for string quartet as RTÉ seeks cuts

THERE are fears the smallest of the RTÉ-funded performing groups – and the only one based outside Dublin – could be axed as part of a cost-cutting drive.

The State broadcaster has commissioned a report on its future options in chamber music provision.

It is being prepared against the backdrop of the economic downturn and belt-tightening within RTÉ, by Philip Hammond, a former director of arts development at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, and is due to be completed in January.