The centenary of Irish radio will be celebrated throughout 2026 by RTÉ.
On 1 January 1926, Douglas Hyde, who went on to become Ireland's first president, delivered the country's first public radio address in Irish and English at 7.45pm on 2RN, a precursor to Radio Éireann, Teilifís Éireann and latterly RTÉ.
He spoke about establishing a station that would become the voice of the nation, telling listeners that it was time for Ireland to take her place amongst the European nations who already had radio stations.
The organisation will mark 100 years of public broadcasting in Ireland with a series of special programmes and performances.
There will be live broadcasts from the GPO across RTÉ Radio One, 2FM, Lyric FM and Raidió na Gaeltachta on 15 January.
Read More: 'Sé seo stáisiún 2RN ag triail': the birth of Irish radio in 1926
The RTÉ Concert Orchestra will also present a series of special performances around the country in front of live audiences.
A century on from the birth of 2RN, the medium continues to attract record audiences.
There are now 33 commercial radio and 21 community stations broadcasting across Ireland, with almost 3.5 million people tuning in each weekday.
RTÉ Director-General Kevin Bakhurst said: ''While much has changed, the need for strong, independent and trusted public service media, available to everyone, has never been greater.
''These celebrations will inevitably look back at key events over the last 100 years, but will also focus on how RTÉ will deliver to audiences in the future, as we continue to challenge disinformation, back creative ambition and innovation, support Irish culture, reflect all of the country and its rich diversity, and bring people together for significant national moments that unite the country. ''
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From RTÉ Archives, Douglas Hyde, founder of the Gaelic League and later first President of Ireland, officially opens 2RN on 1 January 1926
