The RTE broadcaster Marian Finucane has died.
She passed away suddenly today at the age of 69.
RTÉ has announced the death of broadcaster Marian Finucane
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) January 2, 2020
Ms Finucane became a household name with her Liveline programme on RTE Radio 1
Her television work included Consumer Choice and Crime Line.
Marian is survived by her husband John and son Jack.
Taoiseach Leo Varakdar has paid tribute to the veteran broadcaster:
I spent many hours in the studio with Marian. She was thorough, courteous and professional. I’m very sad to think that we won’t hear her voice again on the radio. The deepest sympathies of the Irish Government to her family, friends and colleagues.
— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) January 2, 2020
Dee Forbes, Director General, RTÉ, has said: "Marian was a broadcaster of immense capability; a household name, she was first and foremost a tenacious journalist with a zeal for breaking new ground.
She tackled the big social issues of the day with command and insight.
Ireland has lost a unique voice. RTÉ has lost a beloved colleague."
RTE Liveline presenter Joe Duffy says it is a terrible and shocking loss.
He told the Last Word that he spoke to Marian a few days before Christmas.
Joe Duffy has hailed Ms Finucane as a trailblazer for women in broadcasting "she was the voice of reason, she would listen to everyone calmly and fairly."
Pat Kenny worked with Marian Finucane for decades at the national broadcaster.
He believes "the warmth the curiosity and the intelligence of Marian Finucane is what people will most recall and cherish"
