The Communications Minister says he expects RTÉ to allow a full and free exchange of opinions on matters of public interest.

The comments from Pat Rabbitte come after the broadcaster decided to pay damages to the Iona Institute and some of its supporters, following comments made by a guest on one of its TV shows.

However the Minister says people putting themselves forward for public discussions need to accept that debate can sometimes be hostile.

In a statement, Minister Rabbitte said "I have no intention of interfering in RTÉ's management of the litigation claims against it. But I do expect that RTÉ remains fully committed to its chief obligation as a public service broadcaster - to ensure the full and free exchange of information and opinion on all matters of legitimate public interest".

RTÉ has come under fire since the Iona Institute claimed it had received damages following comments by Rory O'Neill - better known as drag performer 'Panti' - on the 'Saturday Night Show' two weeks ago.

Questions have been asked about whether the actions of RTÉ could undermine its role as a public broadcaster in the run up to the referendum on marriage rights for same-sex couples next year.

Minister Rabbitte says it would be a matter of serious concern if recent events were to have an impact on the debate in advance of the referendum.