TV licence inspectors’ routine jobs have seen a transformation since the onset of the issues at RTÉ, as mentioned by Bill O’Sullivan, a seasoned inspector from Kerry, who was present at the Galway CWU conference recently. The former state of affairs, symbolized by Ryan Tubridy and his flip flops, has given way to the widely shared opinion that this service is no longer required and that further investment in it is a waste.
Recollection of events from last July, when the controversy surrounding the excessive payments to the station’s highest-earning presenter came to light, point to passions running high and the public’s deep outrage. Much of O’Sullivan’s time is now spent clarifying to individuals that the €160 yearly fee is still applicable.
There was a phase when inspectors resorted to merely pushing cards through post boxes, a step which was reiterated when the debate about revenue resurfaced in the news. Although conditions are not as volatile presently, persistent resentment can still be felt.
Homeowners are now beginning to question whether RTÉ’s financing structure will eventually change and if licenses will be terminated. They also have concerns regarding the ongoing scandals at the national broadcaster.
Despite the high tensions, O’Sullivan maintains that he has never been attacked on his job, but acknowledges that individuals do become highly agitated. While he’s experienced in dealing with such situations and tries to cool things down, he often faces aggressive behavior and language. Moreover, he frequently encounters personal criticism about his job, which was previously a sporadic occurrence. There are individuals who used to pay the fee but now question it until they believe there is proper structure or clarity.
The most recent data indicates a decline in TV licence fee revenue by €21.9 million between late June 2023 and late February 2024, a significant drop when compared to the same duration the previous year. “Conversations with homeowners in Tralee revealed their frustration with the system, with many of them voicing concerns about the ‘joke’ of a situation they’re in,” was one anecdote shared.
Presently, this situation has stirred unease among some TV licence inspectors regarding their job security. They seek a sense of certainty, urging politicians to promptly address this concern. The fact that these difficulties could jeopardise around 100 jobs also warrants consideration.
“My fellow inspectors and I are extremely concerned about our career longevity due to visible impacts on revenue. We also face the challenge of being sidelined and disrespected, which makes the need for clarity on this matter even more urgent,” one of them commented. They also requested a respite from the continual maltreatment they encounter.
General Secretary of the CWU, Seán McDonagh, authorised the company’s best, albeit challenged, efforts to manage the dispute. He anticipated the Government would provide clarity on this issue. McDonagh communicated that the present set-up no longer serves its purpose, and a change must be made soon. He insisted that if accountability is to be delegated, the involved staff must be granted options. Moreover, the potential financial consequences of An Post losing the contract must be examined by the Government.
An Post confirmed they were dealing with increasing issues related to the work inspectors, although violent incidents were unusual. The frontperson for the company said, “Each time we address this issue, it seems to inspire others to do the same, so for the sake of our staff, we’d rather not delve into specific experiences. However, let it be known that this is a matter of considerable concern for all of us.”