Ex-RTÉ Presenter Keith Walsh Sues Broadcaster Over 'Unfair Dismissal'

Former RTÉ 2FM presenter Keith Walsh has initiated legal action against the national broadcaster, filing a High Court summons over claims of unfair dismissal and long-term misclassification of his employment status. Walsh, who co-hosted the popular "Breakfast Republic" show with Jennifer Zamparelli and Bernard O’Shea for over five years starting in 2014, was informed in 2020 that his contract would not be renewed.

At the core of Walsh's claim is his assertion that RTÉ incorrectly classified him as a freelance worker, thereby denying him the rights and benefits afforded to employees. In court papers, Walsh is seeking damages for breach of contract, loss, inconvenience, and expense resulting from RTÉ's actions. He is also seeking a legal declaration that he was, in fact, an employee throughout his tenure and should have received benefits such as pension contributions, annual leave, and overtime pay.

Furthermore, the lawsuit requests an order compelling RTÉ to cover all tax liabilities owed to the Revenue Commissioners. Walsh is also seeking damages for wrongful dismissal and aggravated or exemplary damages for what he alleges is an infringement of his constitutional rights, including his right to work and fair procedures.

This legal battle represents the latest phase in a protracted dispute between Walsh and RTÉ. A previous ruling by the Department of Social Protection found that Walsh had been incorrectly classified as self-employed, but RTÉ disputed this decision and appealed. The outcome of this case could have significant repercussions, as Walsh's solicitors noted it might "have a significant impact for [Walsh] and other broadcasters/actors and any person working in this industry and especially individuals employed by [RTÉ] on a contractor/self-employed basis to vindicate and/or protect their rights as an employee."

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have a significant impact for [Walsh] and other broadcasters/actors and any person working in this industry and especially individuals employed by [RTÉ] on a contractor/self-employed basis to vindicate and/or protect their rights as an employee.