RTÉ has today learned of the sad passing of former Director General of RTÉ, Joe Barry (1992-1997) who passed away last night, Wednesday 6 July 2022.
A native of Dunmanway, Co Cork, Joe Barry worked in a variety of operational and managerial positions within RTÉ from 1956 – 1992, before being appointed to the role of Director-General, RTÉ from 1992 – 1997. He subsequently served a term on the RTÉ Authority from 2000 for four years.
A dedicated public servant, Joe Barry was committed to ensuring that RTÉ reflected the lives of the people of Ireland. He opened RTÉ’s Cork Studios during his tenure and oversaw the launch of RTÉ’S online services in 1996.
Joe Barry paved the way for the programme of regional studio expansion that exists today and helped RTÉ’s services transition to the 24-hour model that allowed RTÉ to compete with international services that came to Ireland during that time.
RTÉ Director General, Dee Forbes said: “We were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of for Director-General, Joe Barry who served Radio Éireann and RTÉ with distinction and ambition. While I didn’t know Joe personally, I was aware of his legacy in driving greater levels of regional representation and employment by RTÉ, his tenacity in transitioning our services to the 24-hour model that we know today, and his passion for strong national public service broadcasting, particularly in the face of increasing competition. He made a significant contribution to Irish life, both within RTÉ and in other roles in later years. Our thoughts are with his wife, Aileen, and family at this sad time.”
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.