Gareth O'Callaghan: Shane Ross book charts decades of RTÉ controversy and dysfunction

Shane Ross’s new book examines RTÉ scandals involving Dee Forbes, Ryan Tubridy, Gerry Ryan and Gay Byrne, exploring decades of governance failures and broadcaster controversy

Joe Duffy, Eibhlín Ní Chongaile, Gerry Ryan and Miriam O'Callaghan at the launch of the RTÉ Radio Schedule for autumn 2009. Picture: Colin Keegan/ Collins

Ní neart go cur le chéile is a famous Irish phrase which means there is no strength without unity. It’s a thread that runs through Shane Ross’ new book RTÉ Saints, Scholars and Scandals. Disunity is at the heart of RTÉ’s turbulent history and financial woes.

On March 7, 2023, RTÉ’s director general Dee Forbes was no doubt counting down the days to her retirement. She had exactly 18 weeks left before she walked out of her office for the last time. She would leave with her full term completed, her head held high, albeit without any major achievements to crow about.