Speaking to the Independent, Tubridy has rather candidly revealed that he didn’t mind accepting the reduced salary of €373,333 per year having previously earned €160,000 more per year in his previous deal negotiated in 2008.
“I took the pay cut because I am a realist and know exactly where we are as a country, and as an organisation in particular. That’s the real world. I didn’t have a problem with it,” he said.
The 2FM host also revealed that he hoped this new deal would end speculation that he is going to jump ship to the BBC after he spent this summer filling in for DJ Chris Evans on BBC Radio 2.
You’re earning how much?
“In the last year there has been all sorts of talk about me coming and going but this is a firm commitment between RTE and me. I remain a contractor, not a member of staff but I am of RTE, and will remain so. I am very happy about that,” he said.
But if Tubs did in fact want to establish a more permanent career in the UK, he would be welcomed with open arms by former TV3 Director of Programmes Ben Frow. Frow who is returning to British television said that Tubridy would be in his top three of TV personalities to bring to Britain in the new year.
“I’m not surprised the BBC like him” he said. “I rate him for the same reasons. He has an easy-going, natural style.”
