The iconic Ronan Collins is bidding farewell to RTÉ after nearly five decades — a departure that highlights the shifting landscape of Irish broadcasting. But here’s where it gets controversial: Collins claims a fundamental disagreement with RTÉ's direction led to his exit, revealing tensions behind the scenes that many listeners and followers may not have suspected.
Ronan Collins, one of Ireland’s most recognizable and longstanding radio personalities, announced that he will be leaving RTÉ next week after a storied career spanning over 45 years. Despite his deep roots within the national broadcaster, he admits that an agreement couldn't be reached to continue his work, and that’s what ultimately prompted his decision to step away.
In an interview on The Six O’Clock Show, Collins shared with hosts Brian Dowling and Katja Mia that his final broadcast on RTÉ Gold will be on the upcoming Tuesday. Reflecting on his extensive career, he said, “I’ll be presenting my last show on RTÉ Gold after almost three years of hosting there, but in truth, I have spent 46.5 years in radio — from my early days on 2FM when I started out, through my long tenure on Radio 1, and now nearly three years on RTÉ Gold. It feels like the right moment to let go.”
Collins concluded his long-running show on RTÉ Radio 1 in 2022, passing the baton to Louise Duffy, and he notes that recent changes at RTÉ have made this a suitable time to exit.
He explained, “The decisions made within RTÉ meant that I couldn’t find common ground with the organization on my future. They wanted to head in one direction, and I saw it differently. It really was that straightforward. I want to emphasize that I hold no grudges or bitterness about this — I’ve loved my time, and I will always cherish the moments I’ve shared with my audience.”
Despite stepping away from the microphones, Collins admits he’ll miss the craft of DJing, as well as the regular interactions with listeners who often tell him, “I heard you play this or that song,” adding a personal touch to his years on air.
Since his departure from Radio 1 in 2022, he has continued to host a daily program running Monday through Friday from 10 am to 1 pm, along with “The Collins Collection,” a music show broadcast on bank holidays.
Collins’ career kicked off with performances in various showbands before transitioning fully into radio, and since 1985, he has been a familiar face and voice on national airwaves. His diverse career also includes hosting the popular National Lottery show for many years, making him a well-loved figure in Irish entertainment.
Meanwhile, RTÉ has undergone its most significant schedule overhaul since 1999. Recent changes include David McCullagh’s new mid-morning show, Kieran Cuddihy taking over on LiveLine, and a reshuffle of the Drivetime lineup — with Katie Hannon and Colm Ó Mongáin replacing Sarah McInerney and Cormac Ó hEadhra. Additionally, McInerney will now co-host Morning Ireland.
This reorganization extends beyond radio, with notable shifts such as Tommy Meskill, previously RTÉ’s London correspondent, stepping in as co-anchor of the Six One News alongside Sharon Tobin, and Paul Cunningham replacing Justin McCarthy to present the Sunday edition of “This Week” on RTÉ Radio 1.
RTÉ was contacted for comment regarding Collins’ departure and the broader schedule changes. The evolving media landscape raises important questions about the future of Irish radio and whether traditional broadcasters can keep pace with digital innovation and changing listener preferences.
So, what do you think? Are these shifts a sign of necessary evolution or a loss of authentic, seasoned voices on Irish airwaves? Do you agree with Collins’ perspective, or do you see things differently? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation about Ireland’s broadcasting future.
