RTÉ to be funded by either reformed TV licence or direct exchequer funding

Negotiations on the future funding of the broadcaster is at 'an advanced stage'

The issue of how to pay for the national broadcaster has been a source of tension at Cabinet level. Picture: Mark Stedman

Negotiations on how RTÉ will be funded are at "an advanced stage" and will either take the shape of a reformed TV licence or direct exchequer funding, Media Minister Catherine Martin has said.

The issue of how to pay for the national broadcaster has been a source of tension at Cabinet level, with Ms Martin favouring direct funding for RTÉ, as suggested by the Future of Media Commission.