RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst has confirmed that the Irish broadcaster has no plans to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest, despite ongoing controversy over Israel's participation. Speaking at Leinster House, Bakhurst described the situation as 'very complicated' and reiterated that RTÉ has sought broader discussions with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) but is not considering pulling out.
Bakhurst emphasised that he does not want to undermine the Israeli public service broadcaster Kan, which he noted is under significant pressure from the Israeli government. He confirmed having raised the issue with EBU Director General Noel Curran in recent months, but said no other broadcasters have contacted him directly in response to his comments.
Incoming Oireachtas Media Committee chair Alan Kelly expressed his view that Israel should not be allowed to compete in Eurovision this year, but acknowledged that withdrawal is 'very difficult' for Ireland. Kelly criticised the EBU for applying different standards to Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, arguing that Israel should face similar treatment.
Kelly described Israel's behaviour as 'absolutely disgraceful' and supported Bakhurst's decision, though he noted it came 'a little bit late, given the proximity to the event.' The comments follow a letter from RTÉ's NUJ sub-branch calling for opposition to Israel's involvement. Ireland and Israel are scheduled to perform in the second Eurovision semi-final on 15 May.
