RTÉ, Ireland’s state broadcaster, my former newsroom employer too, is no stranger to controversy, but its latest promotional campaign for its trusted news and current affairs division has caused an internal storm.
The row focuses on the big budget, the hiring shinny hair actors and the arrival of plants that move in and star in the new News promo.
Yes, RTÉ moved plants into the news room for the shoot, and after the shoot they quickly moved them out!
Got it?
The new TV commercial has triggered a massive outrage among many newsroom staff, who accuse management of manufacturing a “fake news” environment.
I spend most of last Thursday talking and learning about how upset many of my former colleagues are and I assume other media will be sure to slice and dice the contentious commercial for the time being.
It cost over €80k for this fake newsy news promo.
For an organisation that has no money and is hoping to win the public’s support, I am not sure this was the best move.
