Radio silence as RTÉ snub game fee

RTÉ RADIO were refused permission to cover last night’s UEFA Cup game between Drogheda United and Libertas of San Marino due to the eircom League club’s demands for payment.

The live commentary scheduled for the game at Dalymount Park fell through when the State broadcaster refused to pay the fee demanded by the Louth club, a significant departure from established practice which may establish a precedent in future cases.

“Drogheda United decided they wanted RTÉ radio to pay to broadcast last night’s game,” said an RTÉ spokesman yesterday.

“RTÉ radio doesn’t pay to cover home UEFA games normally and we’re not about to do so now. Radio is a different medium to tv coverage in that there’s more of a public service element involved — there’s very little advertising or revenue involved.”

However, Terry Collins, Drogheda Utd PRO, said last night that there was a larger point at issue.

“We asked for money,” confirmed Collins, “This is a sporting rights issue and we believe that as we own the rights to the game we’re entitled to ask for payment for coverage.

“We have been approached by companies all over Europe with a view to securing rights to games. We decided not to take those offers ahead of RTÉ, but we have asked for a fee to broadcast this match.

Collins suggested this could be the start of tougher negotiating between broadcasting companies and clubs.