RTE Player needs a capital investment of several million euros in order to bring it in line with industry standards.
The streaming service has attracted regular criticism due to its perceived instability and unreliability. Its ability to handle sports events is of particular concern.
In a written exchange with Ireland’s Public Accounts Committee, RTÉ’s head of public affairs Vivienne Flood said the investment would be a “minimal requirement” to match comparable products in the market.
The story, first published by the Irish Examiner, initially suggested “tens of millions” of euros would be required. However, in a statement, the public broadcaster made clear this was a reference to funding that has been made by linear broadcasters over decades.
In the correspondence, Ms Flood reiterated earlier comments by RTE director-general Dee Forbes that the level of investment is conservatively estimated to be several million euros of capital investment as a minimum requirement.
She also said further evolution of the service needs additional specialist skills which will require increased operating expenditure.