JOURNALISM GUIDELINES - RTÉ

Mandatory Obligation 27
Any proposal to proceed with a programme or report despite legal advice
of a significant or serious risk must be referred to the relevant Managing
Director.
If having considered the matter the Managing Director proposes to
broadcast the programme or report he/she must bring it to the attention
of the Director General and must present a written argument for the
broadcast to take place. Legal Affairs shall make a written risk assessment
to the Director General. The decision to authorise transmission, however,
remains with the relevant Managing Director.
There may also be occasions where providing accurate, impartial and fair
coverage in the public interest raises issues of potential conflict with the law.
Where such cases arise we must consider:
the law’s impact
what effect breaking the law might have on RTÉ
what the effect might be on the people concerned
Mandatory Obligation 28
Any proposal which may involve a potential breach of the law in the public
interest must be referred to the relevant Managing Director, who should
consult with Legal Affairs.
General legal advice notes on Protection of Reputation / Defamation Law,
Contempt of Court, Statutory Restrictions relevant to Reporting and Privacy Law
are available on the RTÉ Intranet.
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