The Tánaiste says RTÉ needs to be fairer and more impartial in relation to water charges.

The comments from Joan Burton come after the Irish Independent revealed TDs opposed to charges were given greater access to RTÉ programmes last month than those on the government side.

Last week, former Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte accused the State broadcaster of being a "recruiting sergeant" for the the far left and Sinn Féin in relation to the water issue. 

"Mischief making for the government of the day is a time honoured indulgence of the media and is part of a healthy democracy. However, under Section 114 of the 2009 Broadcasting Act the public service broadcaster has a duty to 'educate, entertain and inform,'" he said.

Mr Rabbitte added that RTÉ's coverage "may have entertained" but that "no sensible taxpayer or citizen could argue that it has informed or educated on the water issue."

But RTÉ has rejected the criticism of the station's political coverage, and insisted it reviews its broadcast output to ensure there is no bias.

Ms Burton says the State broadcaster needs to be careful that it tells all sides of the story.