BREAKING: RTÉ's Director of Strategy announces resignation with immediate effect

RTÉ's Director of Strategy has announced he is stepping down from the role. 

According to RTÉ, Rory Coveney - who has been with the broadcaster since 2007 in a variety of roles - confirmed his resignation will take place with immediate effect. 

The news comes following weeks of controversy regarding hidden barter accounts at RTÉ, during which Coveney was questioned by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). 

Speaking about his resignation, Coveney said, "I met with Kevin [Bakhurst, Director-General at RTÉ] over the past few days and told him I believed the tough job ahead of him would be made somewhat easier if he had a fresh lead team.

"I’ve tendered my resignation immediately to give him the space to do that. Having worked with Kevin before, I’ve absolute faith in him. He’s the right person to rebuild the national broadcaster. I wish him the very best." 

The Director-General expressed his "sincere thanks" to Coveney for what he called "his significant contribution" to public service media. 

Bakhurst said, "As Strategic Adviser to the Director General, and latterly as Director of Strategy, Rory steered the organisation through a period of unprecedented change in media, while overseeing RTÉ’s complex strategy and public affairs units.

"His diligence, energy and insight were hugely appreciated by many across the organisation. I wish him the very best for the future." 

Coveney previously worked for Irish Aid in the Departent of Foreign Affairs and is a graduate of UCC (BA History). 

He also holds an MA in Interactive Media from TU Dublin.