Statement by RTÉ Director-General on the death of Charlie Bird

Kevin Bakhurst, Director-General of RTÉ paid tribute to former RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird following his death.

“We are all deeply saddened by the news of Charlie’s death.  After 40 years working at RTÉ he has left a unique legacy.  He was a leader in Irish journalism, dedicated, ferocious in his pursuit of the truth and trusted by the public. He was a fearless reporter, breaking and covering so many key stories over many years including the Stardust fire, the National Irish Bank tax avoidance scandal, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and the Indian ocean tsunami.

He was deeply empathetic and a gifted communicator which shone through in his news reports, major investigations and many documentaries. A supportive colleague to so many younger journalists, he was always generous with his time

His campaigning work, especially since his illness diagnosis has gone on to help so many others, as was Charlie’s selfless way. 

Our thoughts are with his wife and our colleague Claire, his children, grandchildren and many friends.”