A new register of interests will also be created for staff and contractors as part of a bid to increase "openness and transparency".

Tánaiste (Irish deputy prime minister) Micheál Martin described the actions as "first steps towards helping restore public confidence in RTÉ".

"As the national broadcaster, which rightly challenges other institutions, RTÉ must be leading out in terms of equality and inclusion," he said.

"Confidence in RTÉ starts with its own staff and board. And from there it can start to build trust with the Oireachtas, its audience, the independent production sector and the public."

National Union of Journalist's (NUJ) Irish Secretary Séamus Dooley said he hoped Mr Bakhurt's actions would mark “the beginning of a new beginning for an organisation which has been devoid of leadership for a number of years.”

“The ‘computer says no’ mentality which has characterised much of our engagement with management in recent years much be replaced by genuine engagement," he said.

Mr Bakhurst is due to appear before the Oireachtas (Irish parliament) Public Accounts Committee on Thursday.

“the beginning of a new beginning for an organisation which has been devoid of leadership for a number of years.”

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