22-05-2025
Independent sector to produce mass, services on RTÉ
RTÉ has launched a commissioning process that will see all of its Christian worship content produced in the independent sector.
Currently, worship content is produced in a studio in RTÉ in Donnybrook, Dublin 4, however, it is hoped that by the start of next year, production will be shifted to a number of designated "hub" churches.
The move is part of the broadcaster's new direction strategy.
The production will be delivered in partnership with Ireland's major denominations based on production models already pioneered by other European braodcasters, RTÉ said.
RTÉ's Managing Editor, Video and Director of Content, Seán Mac Giolla Phádraig said: "Advances in technology mean that it is now possible to broadcast Masses and services cost-effectively from a variety of churches nationwide, enabling RTÉ to shift production of this important content from the current Donnybrook studio base into authentic congregational worship settings across the 32 counties of Ireland, without any diminution in technical or editorial quality."
Roger Childs, RTÉ's Commissioning Editor of Religious Content, said: "RTÉ remains fully committed to broadcasting a broad range of Christian worship content, reflecting the diversity of denominations and styles of worship across the 32 counties of Ireland in the long term.
"Masses, services or other forms of Christian worship will continue to be broadcast every Sunday and on key Christian holidays: St Patrick's Day, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day."
Mr Childs said the current production model means groups often have to travel long distances to Montrose and that the limited capacity of the studio "only allows for a small representative presence from each featured parish or school group".
"In contrast, broadcasting from "hub" churches in each region will enable RTÉ to feature authentic congregational worship in those areas," he added.
