“Further to the comments from RTÉ Director-General, Kevin Bakhurst on Wednesday 7th May – included below – in which he asked the EBU for a discussion on Israel’s inclusion in the Eurovision Song Contest and to his confirmation yesterday that RTÉ will not be withdrawing from this year’s Eurovision, Kevin Bakhurst has confirmed that he, along with RTÉ’s Director of Video, Steve Carson had a meeting today with the EBU and raised RTÉ’s concerns. There is a commitment from the EBU to have a wider discussion amongst members in due course.”

ENDS

On Wednesday 7th May, RTÉ Director-General, Kevin Bakhurst said:
 
“I am appalled by the ongoing events in the Middle East and by the horrific impact on civilians in Gaza, and the fate of Israeli hostages. Notwithstanding the fact that the criterion for participating in the Eurovision Song Contest is membership of the European Broadcasting Union, RTÉ has nonetheless asked the EBU for a discussion on Israel’s inclusion in the contest. In doing this, we are mindful of RTÉ’s obligations as an independent, impartial public service news and current affairs provider, and of the need to maintain RTÉ’s objectivity in covering the war in Gaza. We are also very mindful of the severe political pressure on Israel’s public service broadcaster, Kan, from the Israeli government.”

ENDS