Kenny remains RTÉ’s top earner

PAT KENNY remains the highest-paid RTÉ presenter, according to the latest figures released by the state broadcaster.

However, the figures relate to 2009, in keeping with RTÉ’s original policy to only publish figures two years behind “for commercial reasons”.

In 2009 it agreed to publish the 2007 and 2008 figures, due to pressures arising from the economic downturn. The 2010 figures are due to be published next year. Given that the figures are two years old, they are likely to be out of date.

RTÉ director general, Noel Curran, said pay cuts of 30% are envisaged by 2013, as some of the biggest stars’ contracts come up for renewal. According to the figures, Mr Kenny earned €729,604 in 2009, down 23% from 2008 when he earned almost €951,000.

The second-highest earner in 2009 was the late Gerry Ryan, who earned €585,944, down from €629,865 the previous year.

Third was Ryan Tubridy with €519,667 in 2009, down from €533,333.

Presenting the figures

* Pat Kenny: €729,604

* Gerry Ryan: €585,944

* Ryan Tubridy: €519,667

* Marian Finucane: €513,270

* Joe Duffy: €389,314

* Miriam O’Callaghan: €290,625

* Derek Mooney: €268,985

* Eamon Dunphy: €225,485

* Sean O’Rourke: €214,084

* Colm Hayes: €213,954