Another well-known name is stepping away from RTÉ Radio after 30 years, saying it has been a 'honour and a joy.'
Broadcaster Kieran Hanrahan is retiring after three decades of presenting Céilí House on RTÉ Radio 1.
Kieran’s last Céilí House will be live from the Fleadh Cheoil on Saturday. The Wexford Fleadh has attracted crowds of over 100,000 to the town for the week-long traditional music festival.
Kieran first joined RTÉ in 1992, initially presenting Fleadh Club and Both Sides Now before hosting Céilí House in 1995.
Speaking on his retirement, he said: ‘It has been an honour and a joy to present Céilí House on RTÉ Radio 1 for the last 30 years. 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.
‘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.’
Kieran's final broadcast will be a live show from the Gig Rig stage in Wexford. The show will feature the best of Wexford musicians, including a quartet of Wexford pipers, music from some of the Fleadh’s award winners and special guests.
The winner of the senior ceilí band, the most anticipated competition of every Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann, will be announced at the Wexford Credit Union Dome in Ferrybank, Wexford on Sunday night.
Singer Ed Sheeran made an unannounced appearance at the Fleadh this week. Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann is Ireland’s largest traditional music festival and is expected to attract over 100,000 people to Wexford this week.
It is the culmination of regional and provincial competitions throughout the country and Ed was keen to see the talent. Ed has previously spoken about his extensive ties to Wexford.
