In October, RTE's director of music, Niall Doyle, promised to launch a formal consultation process, both internal and external, before Christmas, as a first step in bringing change to the station's music department, writes Michael Dervan. Internally, things have moved apace, but getting the public aspect underway has fallen behind schedule.

One of the distractions that have surfaced for Doyle has been the unravelling of RTE's relationship with the agent who has had responsibility for international orchestral tours. Complaints from the players involved have been many and various, and it now seems that the dispute has become insoluble by normal means. RTE has terminated its relationship with the agency, and has issued a High Court writ.

Back with more normal business, Doyle will be having a major meeting with RTE's performing groups on February 19th. Public sessions will follow soon after, as will an announcement of proposals for a new senior management structure within the music department.