I am saddened to learn of the passing of broadcaster David Hanly. I have fond memories of interviews with him on Morning Ireland. He was sharp, highly intelligent, and always had a sense of perspective. He put Morning Ireland on the map. His voice was unmistakable. My thoughts are with his family, friends and former colleagues at this time.
As proof of his star power, figures from the latest Joint National Listenership Research (JNLR's) reveal the huge slump in his show over the summer. The veteran presenter left on Friday, June 27, after 37 years with RTÉ and was replaced with a rotating panel of broadcasters after he retired. It may spell an uphill battle for Kieran Cuddihy when he takes up the reins of the show next Monday as part of the massive Radio 1 reshuffle.
RTÉ confirmed the appointment this morning in a statement which also included details of a programme schedule shake-up. It was also indicated that he would appear on the Late Late Show on RTÉ television tonight. However Newstalk have said that he is still under contract with them for a period of time. RTÉ this evening said: "Kieran Cuddihy is unable to be a guest on the Late Late Show to be broadcast tonight."