RTÉ broadcaster Kieran Hanrahan to retire after 30 years at helm of Céilí House
The musician and award-winning broadcaster first joined RTÉ in 1992, initially presenting Fleadh Club and Both Sides Now, before assuming hosting duties of Céilí House in 1995.
Céilí House has been on air on RTÉ Radio since the 1950s, but over the past 30 years, Mr Hanrahan has made the show his own, with the best of Irish traditional music played in halls, houses and theatres all over the country.
Mr Hanrahan described presenting the show for the last 30 years as an 'honour' and a 'joy'.
"For me, every night was a highlight, whether we were in someone's home, the local pub, the parish hall or the National Concert Hall,' he said.
"I am deeply grateful to our loyal listeners, and to the countless musicians, singers and dancers, whose talent and generosity brought the music to life.
"Thank you for making this phase of my life so rich, rewarding, memorable, and truly special,' he added.
His final broadcast tomorrow will be a live show from the Gig Rig at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford, featuring the best of Wexford musicians, including a quartet of Wexford pipers, music from some of the weekend's award winners and special guests.
Head of RTÉ Radio 1, Tara Campbell, said: 'Céilí House under the masterful stewardship of Kieran Hanrahan for the last 30 years has represented public service broadcasting at its best.'
"It's such a privilege for Radio 1 to be so warmly welcomed by musicians and performers in the heart of their communities and to be able to share their amazing talents with our loyal listeners.
"We wish Kieran the very best in whatever comes next and thank him most sincerely for his significant contribution to Radio 1 over more than three decades,' she added.
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