No matter what happens, the taxpayer will pay

The board of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland is paid by the taxpayer.

The Compliance Committee, who may conduct the investigation into the RTE/Fr. Reynolds affair, is paid by the taxpayer.

If the Authority decides to employ an outside source to conduct the investigation that source will be paid by the taxpayer.

If RTE is found guilty of either breaching the regulations or failing to co-operate with the Authority the station can be fined up to €250,000.

Any fine imposed will be paid by the taxpayer.