Joe Brolly and former GAA President Sean Kelly have jumped to the defence of Marty Morrissey after the RTE correspondent made headlines over use of a free car.
The GAA commentator and reporter released a statement on Thursday evening after he revealed he had the use of the free car under an ‘ad hoc’ arrangement for five years.
Co Clare native Morrissey admitted to accepting the “informal” use of a car in return for being a master of ceremonies at a dozen Renault events.
And Joe Brolly jumped to the defence of his former RTE colleague, saying: "I can’t see a single thing that Marty has done wrong."
While former GAA President and MEP Sean Kelly said: "Neither do I. No different to anybody doing some work outside of their full-time job. He got the use of a car in lieu of being paid - what’s the big deal ?
"Like someone picking spuds for a farmer and gets a bag to take home instead of money . Steady on , now lads!”
In a statement, Morrissey said: "In the interests of openness and transparency, I would like to address certain questions that have been raised over recent days.
"I am a Sports Reporter and Commentator concentrating exclusively on GAA.
"In light of recent events, one potential issue did come into focus. In 2017 I was asked to MC a series of functions in Renault garages across the country. This involved me interviewing several high-profile GAA personalities. As was required of me, I sought RTÉ permission at the time to do this. This permission was granted.
"I did not seek a fee for this engagement. I saw it as GAA-related, interacting with former players who I knew well. Many of the GAA-related engagements I do, I do at no cost. As I hadn't sought a fee, Renault offered me the use of a car. I accepted this offer. The situation carried over informally for a number of years. I ended up MC ing about 12 such events.
"Since the recent controversy within RTÉ arose, I reflected on this matter. I concluded that it had been an error of judgment on my part to accept the use of the car. I returned it voluntarily to Renault on Friday 23rd June.
"Like many RTÉ staff and contractors, I was this week asked to supply RTÉ with information about any commercial engagements, gifts and potential conflicts of interest. I did this and made full disclosure of this matter to RTÉ.
"I have never been appointed a brand ambassador for Renault. There was no expectation or requirement that I publicly endorse or promote Renault on air, on social media or otherwise while I had the use of a car. As far as I was concerned, my use of the car was always a very ad hoc arrangement which did not affect my work with RTÉ.
"I wish to be clear that I have never had a car allowance from RTÉ. I have apologised to RTÉ, my managers and colleagues for any embarrassment or difficulty I have caused them because of this matter. I also apologise to any of our viewers and listeners who may feel let down by my actions. It was never my intention to let anyone down, least of all myself.
"I have assured RTÉ that I remain ready to assist, and rectify, any issues which may arise from this matter."
