RTÉ News bulletins

RTÉ faced backlash after blocking its news bulletins in Northern Ireland, citing licensing issues related to Olympic footage. Viewers reported being unable to access broadcasts, including the main news programs, with some labeling the action as 'censorship'. Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes and Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith criticized the move, emphasizing the need for RTÉ, as a public broadcaster, to provide comprehensive news coverage across the entire island. RTÉ confirmed that the BBC holds exclusive broadcast rights for the 2024 Olympic Games in Northern Ireland, resulting in the geo-blocking of any bulletins containing Olympic content. The broadcaster stated it has sought permission to air Olympic coverage in Northern Ireland but was unsuccessful. An edited version of the news will be available on RTÉ Player nightly, but concerns about accessibility remain prevalent among viewers in Northern Ireland.