RTE Completes Sale of GAAGo Stake for €3 Million

RTE has successfully concluded the sale of its 50% stake in the streaming service GAAGo for a total of €3 million. The transaction follows an agreement reached with the GAA in February 2022, marking the end of a joint venture that began in 2014. RTE confirmed the completion of the sale on Thursday, stating that the proceeds will be directed towards enhancing its regional studios and production facilities, particularly those located in Cork, Limerick, and Galway.

Significance of GAAGo’s Establishment

The establishment of GAAGo was crucial for expanding access to Gaelic games for fans worldwide. RTE’s director-general, Kevin Bakhurst, highlighted the importance of the venture during its inception, describing it as a transformative initiative. He expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the development of GAAGo, particularly acknowledging its significance during the pandemic when fans were unable to attend live events.

In his statement, Bakhurst noted, “The establishment of GAAGo as a joint venture with the GAA in 2014 was a pivotal moment, enabling fans of Gaelic games around the world to access our national games.” He emphasized that this sale allows RTE to fulfill its commitment to reinvest in regional programming and content production, enhancing the media landscape outside of the capital.

Future Collaborations and GAA’s Success

Looking ahead, Bakhurst extended his best wishes to the GAA for its new GAA+ service, expressing optimism about future collaborations. He underscored the shared goal of supporting Ireland’s national games and the commitment to continue working closely with the GAA for years to come.

The sale of the stake in GAAGo represents a strategic move for RTE, enabling the broadcaster to strengthen its regional presence while paving the way for innovative programming that resonates with audiences across the nation. The reinvestment in facilities aims to bolster local production capabilities, further enhancing the media service provided to the public.