RTÉ TV chief Curran to stay on in advisory capacity

THE head of RTÉ television announced his departure from his position, saying he would stay on in an “advisory capacity” with the broadcaster.

Having joined RTÉ in 1992 as a reporter, Noel Curran oversaw programmes in entertainment and current affairs, as well as the award-winning Prime Time Investigates series. He was made managing director of television in 2003.

RTÉ staff were surprised by the 44-year-old’s decision to leave but sources stressed there had been no falling out with management at Montrose.

Speaking of the decision, RTÉ director general Cathal Goan said Mr Curran had “played a pivotal role in maintaining RTÉ Television’s creative and popular success”.

“RTÉ has maintained its pre-eminent position with Irish viewers, despite unprecedented growth in competition. It has also held on to almost all of its major sports rights on behalf of the Irish public. This has been done against a backdrop of significantly reduced costs over the last two years which will position television strongly for the future.

“RTÉ is grateful to him for his enormous contribution,” said Mr Goan.

Mr Curran said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some incredibly talented people both in RTÉ and in the independent sector. I want to thank them for all their continued hard work and creativity.”