The Government and politicians in general are less than pleased with RTE. Much of it concerns the recent Budget coverage, where they feel the economic commentary was one-sided, the audience at Q & A last Monday was unbalanced and the phone-ins were biased. Now the news that MEP and former singer Dana is to present the last Saturday Live on RTE television before Christmas should annoy them further. Her political rivals will argue that they are unlikely ever to receive such glamorous and sympathetic exposure as the December 18th show will give her, and rumblings about RTE's obligation under the Broadcasting Act to be fair and objective will grow. RTE has been trying to fill the Saturday Live slot left vacant by Pat Kenny for some time, but can't find the right person. Recent shows have been hosted on a one-off basis by celebrities such as Tracy Piggott and Fionnuala Sweeney. A number of potential presenters, some from outside the media, have been tested and offers made, but contracts remain unsigned.
RTE won't reveal the rate for the job - it's a secret like the weekly presenters - but it is understood the guest hosts are paid up to £5,000 for the two-hour show. The director of public affairs, Kevin Healy, told Quidnunc RTE would consider other politicians as hosts "if we can establish they have entertainment value on a par with Dana. Who knows what doors will be opened as a result of this."