Director-General of RTÉ

The Chairman of the RTÉ Authority, Patrick J. Wright, has announced that the Authority has, with the approval of the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, appointed Cathal Goan as the new Director General of RTÉ. The vacancy arose because of the decision of the current Director General, Bob Collins, to step down from his position in October 2003, some months earlier than the end of his contractual term.

In announcing the appointment the Chairman of the Authority said:
“It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Cathal Goan as Director General of RTÉ with effect from October 2003. Cathal’s unique skill set, experience and commitment to public service broadcasting will be of enormous benefit to RTÉ – an organization in transition, as he becomes Director General." Cathal was involved in the development of the Strategic Plan 2002–2005, which is now being implemented and he is fully aware of the challenges that are being addressed to realize RTÉ’s full potential.

While continuing in his position as MD of RTÉ TV, Cathal is Director General Designate with immediate effect; the Authority is confident that this will facilitate a structured handover period with Bob Collins, ensuring a smooth transition. Cathal will have the full support of the Authority and staff at RTÉ as he undertakes his new role.”

Cathal Goan is a native of Belfast, a graduate of University College Dublin and joined RTÉ in 1979. Initially working with RTÉ Radio as a producer and senior producer he moved to RTÉ TV in 1988, starting in Current Affairs before being appointed Editor of Cúrsaí, the Irish language current affairs and arts programme; in 1990 he was appointed Editor, Irish Language Programming. Cathal was appointed Ceannasaí of Teilifís na Gaeilge in August 1994 and oversaw the establishment of the channel, Ireland's third national television service. He was appointed Director of RTÉ Television and a member of the RTÉ Executive Board in March 2000.