RTÉ plan is inequitable - Cuts must be reviewed

RTÉ has cut the income of the Vanbrugh quartet by 40%, making it almost impossible for the group to survive. Other performers employed by the State broadcaster took a cuts of up to 8%.

This is inequitable and, as the Vanbrugh is the only performing group based outside of Dublin, it raises all sorts of questions.

The quartet, in various guises, has enriched lives right across this country and represented us proudly on the international stage. It has encouraged young musicians and helped raise standards.

We have been told that our education system is barely adequate yet, because RTÉ has cut funding so disproportionately this exemplary institution, as performers and teachers, is in jeopardy. Of course RTÉ must make cuts but they must be seen to be fair. This cut is not and the balance must be redressed. Ireland would be a far poorer place for their loss.