Miriam O’Callaghan has defended morale at RTÉ, saying the State broadcaster remains a great place to work despite a string of recent controversies.

RTÉ has faced renewed scrutiny in recent weeks amid claims it was headhunting presenters rather than promoting talent from within the organisation.

The broadcaster has denied those claims.

It also emerged that the Government has cut RTÉ’s budget by €20 million for next year, amid concerns over the pace of reforms and efforts to reduce staffing levels.

Despite the ongoing pressure surrounding the organisation, Prime Time presenter Miriam O’Callaghan said she remains proud to work there.

Speaking about the people behind RTÉ’s programmes, she said the commitment of staff remains strong.

‘I was there last night presenting Prime Time live with my colleague Sarah McInerney, the floor is full of all the people work so hard, the gallery is full on a day-to-day basis,’ she said.

‘I could not work for better people, and for me the morale stays as it is, because when you go live, when you go on air, they all work incredibly hard, and I’m incredibly fond of everyone that works in that organisation.’

Her comments come at a time when the national broadcaster continues to face questions around internal reform, staffing and future funding.

The €20 million reduction in Government funding for next year adds further pressure as RTÉ continues efforts to reshape the organisation.

The broadcaster has also been forced to respond publicly to reports around external recruitment and the future of presenting roles.

However, O’Callaghan said her own experience inside RTÉ remains positive, with staff continuing to deliver live programming despite the wider controversies.

Her remarks place the focus on those working behind the scenes at the organisation, as debate continues over RTÉ’s future direction and internal reform.