RTÉ Announce Plans To Outsource All Of Their Young People’s Programming

A sad day for those of us who grew up with Bosco, Zig and Zag, Judge, Fortycoats, Mr. Crow and the gang from Wanderly Wagon. RTÉ have announced their plans to outsource their young people's programming, meaning that all of the national broadcaster's RTÉjr and RTÉ2 children's television will now come from independent production companies. A statement from RTÉ said:

"The decision was made from a cost-effectiveness standpoint, however it will not affect the amount of young people's content that will be produced. Recognising the challenging financial environment, and so as to achieve stronger efficiencies and value for money, RTÉ is to make changes to how it produces young people’s programmes. After an examination of all output, a decision has been made to commission all young people’s programmes from the independent sector, enabling RTÉ to meet its statutory committed spend in the sector and reducing operating costs internally. RTÉ is not reducing its commitment to younger peoples programmes, nor it's spend."

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Emma O'Driscoll who presented The Den and numerous other children's programmes for over a decade, said she was saddened to hear the news:

"I only heard the news on Wednesday evening and I was shocked. I am very sad to see it go but on the other hand I am hoping that it will strengthen children's programming in the long run. I had an amazing 11 and a half years there. Everything I know I learned there. It was the most amazing training ground."

Since leaving RTÉ last May, Emma has set up her own production company Prize Pig Productions with her former colleague Martin Crehan. The company are concentrating on format development for television and online channels, with a particular focus on gameshows and animation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiGQZfB3EGw Remember Know Your Sport, School Around The Corner, Blackboard Jungle, and Jo Maxi? Let us know what your favourites were in the comments. You can also join the conversation on Twitter @HerFamilydotie