Media Minister O’Donovan faces criticism over budget and language comments

Media and Culture Minister Patrick O’Donovan has come under fire after comments on the Irish‑language name of the new media regulator and a contentious budget meeting.

Podcaster Doireann Ní Ghlacáin of the How to Gael series criticised O’Donovan for suggesting the regulator should not be called Coimisiún na Meán, saying his remarks caused confusion internationally. O’Donovan dismissed the personal attacks at a post‑Cabinet briefing in Government Buildings and urged focus on the €34.4 million allocation for the basic income for the arts scheme.

During the same briefing, O’Donovan confirmed that a €100 culture credit for 16‑year‑olds will not be delivered next year, after a brief, reportedly tense meeting with Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers. Sources described the eight‑minute discussion as “concise” and noted that both sides left quickly, with the culture credit removed from the budget.

Later, O’Donovan’s department announced that RTÉ will receive €20 million less than expected, prompting RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst to warn of potential impacts on the state broadcaster’s operations.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Muhammed Cihad Çamlıca / Pexels.