RTE confirms TV shake-up after Joanna Donnelly's departure

RTE has confirmed a major change to the line-up among its presenters this week.

The station this week announced that Fergal O’Brien was the newest Business Correspondent for RTE News after the recent departure of Will Goodbody after 21 years last December.

Speaking about his new role, Fergal said: "I’m delighted to have been appointed to the role of RTE Business Correspondent at such a pivotal time for the business community in Ireland.

"As I take on the position, I’m conscious that there is much uncertainty facing the Irish and global economies. The impact of the planned tariffs from the US administration has the potential to be the biggest challenge facing many businesses, households and indeed the State since Brexit and the financial crash.

"Business crosses every sector and has an impact on all of our lives, and as part of my new role, I will hope to visit as many businesses as I can across the country, to tell the stories of those directly impacted by wider decisions."

The presenter has worked with RTE for the last seven years across RTE’s Six One News, Nine O’Clock News, News at One on RTE Radio 1 and RTE online.

RTE also appointed David Murphy as the senior role of Economics and Public Affairs Editor. He will manage the RTE News Business Unit team and coverage.

The new shake up to presenters come after Met Eireann said goodbye to Joanna Donnelly earlier this month. It is unclear if the meteorologist will be replaced.

Joanna recently took to social media to thank everyone for their incredible support following her retirement announcement.

In a clip, she said: “To say I’m overwhelmed by the messages of support I’ve received. I can’t believe it. I’m genuinely shocked at the reaction. I just like to say, I forgot to say this last night, this is not a decision I came to lightly by any means.

“It was a very, very hard decision to make, but I think it was the right one to make for and for my family.

“There’ll be more news in the coming while but not just yet, not for a while. I have to take some time now and look after myself and look after my own health and that my family and I thank you all so so much for all the [support].

“I can’t believe how many messages of kindness and support. I’m really really touched. I really appreciate it.

“As I said, it was a very hard decision to make, but I think it was the right one."