RTE challenge against compensation ruling collapses over 'ageist and sexist' remarks

RTÉ is challenging the WRC ruling with the argument that a compulsory retirement age of 65 is necessary in order to allow it to recruit and promote younger programme makers with fresh ideas to attract younger audiences.

 A challenge by RTÉ against having to pay €100,000 compensation to a former executive producer who was forced to retire at 65 has dramatically collapsed after a member of the Labour Court accused the station’s barrister of making “ageist and sexist” remarks.

The Labour Court deputy chairman, Alan Haugh, announced the division of the court had decided to recuse itself from the case at the start of the hearing on Thursday.