IVAN Yates believes RTE will "run out of cash by December" and maintains the organisation become "insolvent".
The ex-minister said the broadcaster was heading for a "crisis" because it has borrowed €95million of its €100million limit - and he fears for the 1,800 staff.
Former Tonight Show host Ivan, 63, also weighed in on Ryan Tubridy's potential return to the station - adding "he needs RTE more than RTE needs him".
Giving his view on the pay scandal engulfing Montrose, Ivan said: "I think the public are missing the point here.
"With each passing week, the whole debate about Ryan Tubridy is deck-chairs on the Titanic. It is now facing a cash shortfall of €50million.
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