RTÉ to release files on debate

RTÉ has to give businessman Sean Gallagher certain documents sought by him for his action against the national broadcaster arising from the ‘Tweetgate’ incident during the presidential election campaign, the High Court has ruled.

Mr Gallagher sought documents including one created between the date of the broadcast on October 24, 2011, of the Frontline debate and November 18, 2012, when a report of an internal RTÉ review of the broadcast was published.

RTÉ opposed the action. It claimed the request was too broad and amounted to a “trawl” of documentation that would put the station to extra cost.

In his judgment, Mr Justice Paul Gilligan said Mr Gallagher is entitled to be provided with the documents he is seeking from RTÉ as part of his case.

The judge adjourned the matter for a week to allow both sides consider his judgment.

In his action, Mr Gallagher seeks a declaration the October 2011 RTÉ Frontline debate involving the election candidates was deliberately and unfairly edited and presented and directed by RTÉ in order to damage his electoral prospects in the election. He is also claiming damages for alleged breach of statutory duty, negligence and misfeasance in public office.

RTÉ denies the claims.