Director General of the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service (RÚV) Leaves his Post, Effective Immediately, Citing Lack of Support from RUV‘s Board of Governors.
In an e-mail sent to all RUV staff, Director General Páll Magnússon explained his reasons for leaving his post.
„I have, in consultation with the chairman of the board, decided to leave my job as Director General of RUV effective immediately. The reason for my decision is that I feel I do not have the support of the Board of Governors to continue during these difficult times.
Despite the very difficult funding cuts I leave RUV with a sense of pride. By measure used, RUV‘s position is stronger than ever before. This applies to the general public‘s perception of the broadcaster, surveys indicating that the public trusts RUV more than most other institutions, the trust in our news far exceeds the trust enjoyed by any other news organization, our television channel has more viewers and the radio stations more listeners than any other radio or TV station in Iceland. Add to this the fact that we have weathered the financial storms of recent years astoundingly well, despite all the difficulties. Shortly, the financial statement for our last fiscal year will be published, showing a positive result. Thus, we have managed to finish our four-year cycle in the black.
But enough about that. The trust is gone and hence, our ways must part.
I would sincerely like to thank all of the dedicated staff I have enjoyed working with for the past eight years for a fruitful and enjoyable cooperation. Together, we have managed to guide RUV through very challenging times, from the financial crash of 2008 through repeated funding cuts and all of this during times of general distrust in all institutions of society. And still, we enjoy trust and popularity with our books in order. That is no small feat.
I wish you all and RUV all the best in the future.
Yours,
Páll Magnússon”
RUV’s Board of Governors sent a press release shortly thereafter:
“RUV’s board and Director General Páll Magnússon have today come to the mutual decision that he resign from his post effective immediately. Following this, the position will be posted for applicants in accordance with law.
The Board would like to thank Mr. Magnússon for his work during difficult times and wishes him well. The Board will now seek applicants and review each one thoroughly.
The Board is in agreement on the importance of a strong and ambitious public broadcaster which the public respects and trusts. RUV is one of the corner stones of society and the Board will do its utmost to guarantee that there is general accord and agreement on its operations so that RUV can in the future fulfil its public service obligations with pride."