The WRC yesterday ordered the broadcaster to pay €100,000 in compensation to former TV producer-director Anne Roper after she suffered discrimination contrary to section 79 of the Employment Equality Act.

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) had sought, through internal procedures, to have Ms Roper’s employment extended by 18 months but RTÉ insisted that she should retire at 65, even though her contract was silent on the issue of a retirement date.

She was represented at the WRC by solicitor Donal Spring, and the NUJ’s Irish secretary Séamus Dooley gave evidence in her support.

Commenting on the forthcoming appeal, Mr Dooley said: “We are disappointed that RTÉ has decided to appeal the determination. Our member has had to suffer a highly unsatisfactory internal process and a very stressful WRC hearing, followed by a long wait for the adjudication.

“This appeal adds further stress to the individual but will also delay the implementation of a consistent, coherent and transparent retirement policy in RTÉ predicated on the principles and fairness.

“The adjudication officer’s determination sets out useful precepts and it would have been preferable If RTÉ had accepted the findings and addressed the shortcomings identified in this case. Anne Roper and the legal team deserve credit for the manner in which this case has been pursued.”