Broadcaster and journalist Claire Byrne has signed off from RTÉ Radio 1, saying, "It's time to hand over the baton."
The Laois-born presenter announced last August that she would be leaving RTÉ to take over the morning show on Newstalk, where she previously worked from 2004 to 2010, from veteran broadcaster Pat Kenny, who is moving to the station’s weekend schedule.
Former Prime Time and RTÉ News: Six One presenter David McCullagh will begin presenting Radio 1’s Today show from Monday 10 November.
Speaking on air on Friday morning, Byrne said: "I wanted to say goodbye to you all because today is my last show in RTÉ and it’s time to hand over the baton. I just wanted to say to you that I have had the most wonderful 15 years here. I’ve had so many great opportunities and met the most inspiring people in this studio and others over the years,"
Watch: Claire Byrne signs off from her last show on RTÉ Radio 1
She also paid tribute to her team.
"I want to say a very special thank you to the team on this show. I simply could not sit in this chair and do what I do without them. And to all the other incredibly talented teams I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. we’ve all worked very hard but we had great fun, too.
"I can tell you, that I’ve made a lot of friends here in RTÉ.
"But David McCullagh is taking over and I know he is going to do an exceptional job. David is one of Ireland’s finest journalists and he’s a fierce nice fella, and I know he is going to take great care if you in the years ahead.
"And to you who have listened to me over the years, whether I have driven you around the twist or I have entertained you, thank you very much for your company and do take care."
