Chair of RTE Authority resigns over Ryder Cup links

The chairman of the RTE Authority has resigned due to a potential conflict of interest over his role as an advisor to the Ryder Cup and the European Tour.

Communications Minister Noel Dempsey announced the move last night, saying Fintan Drury had decided to step down as his golfing connections could conflict with his position in RTE.

Mr Dempsey is currently considering whether to add the Ryder Cup to Ireland's list of nationally important events that must be available on free-to-air television.

If he presses ahead with the move, it could see RTE securing the right to broadcast the tournament, despite the fact that Sky has already bought those rights from the Ryder Cup.