RTE's Director of Strategy Rory Coveney has announced his resignation this evening as the RTE payments scandal rumbles on.
In a statement issued by RTE, Mr Coveney confirmed that he is stepping down from his role as the broadcaster's Director of Strategy. Mr Coveney had worked with RTE since joining in 2007.
He said: "I met with Kevin Bakhurst [incoming Director General at RTE) over the past few days and told him I believed the tough job ahead of him would be made somewhat easier if he had a fresh lead team.
"I’ve tendered my resignation immediately to give him the space to do that. Having worked with Kevin before, I’ve absolute faith in him.
"He’s the right person to rebuild the national broadcaster. I wish him the very best.”
Read more: Ryan Tubridy spotted out for a jog days before grilling over RTE payments
Kevin Bakhurt Director General of RTE said: "I want to express my sincere thanks to Rory for his significant contribution to public service media during his time in RTÉ. As Strategic Adviser to the Director General, and latterly as Director of Strategy, Rory steered the organisation through a period of unprecedented change in media, while overseeing RTÉ’s complex strategy and public affairs units.
"His diligence, energy and insight were hugely appreciated by many across the organisation. I wish him the very best for the future”
Earlier this week Mr Coveney was among other RTE board members and executives to appear before the Dail's Media Committee.
Mr Coveney was questioned by TDs and senators about the losses incurred by Toy Show The Musical which lost the national broadcaster €2.2m. On Monday, new RTE Director General Kevin Backhurst is expected to announce an overhaul of the executive board.
RTE has been in turmoil since it was revealed last month that it under-reported the salary paid to Ryan Tubridy. Ryan Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly are due to appear before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Tuesday.
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