WATCH: RTÉ newsreader with Laois dad announces retirement live on air
An RTÉ newsreader with Laois parentage has surprised the nation by announcing her retirement live on air.
Eileen Dunne announced her decision to retire after presenting the 9 O'clock news on Friday, November 18.
"This is my final bulleton after 42 years working for this wonderful organisation and I've only ever been as good as the people behind me.
"A few thank you's. To my family and early mentors who got me here and sustained me. To my wonderful newsroom colleagues, and finally to you the viewers thank you for your support especially during those turbulent Covid years. It's been an honour and a privilege. See you on the other side," Ms Dunne said.
Her announcement was followed by a video montage of her career highlights.
Eileen Dunne's late father was sports journalist Mick Dunne from Clonaslee. Though born in Dublin she is an honorary Laois woman paying many visits to her father's county down the years supporting many charities along the way.
Those events include presenting a Leinster Express People of the Year event, leading the Timahoe New Year's Day walk, and most recently as Grand Marshall of the Clonaslee St Patrick's Day parade.