Major changes at RTÉ as Claire Byrne's departure to rival broadcaster is confirmed

High profile broadcaster Claire Byrne is to leave RTÉ later this year to take up a new role with rival radio station Newstalk.

Then national broadcaster confirmed her departure, after 15 years,  this Friday as they announced that Six One presenter David McCullagh is to take over as presenter of the Today Show of RTÉ Radio 1 from early November.

It was subsequently announced by Newstalk that Laois native Claire Byrne will present the mid-morning show on the radio station from early in the new year - succeeding Pat Kenny, whose show is to move to a weekend slot.

Commenting on the switch, Claire Byrne said: “This new chapter marks a really significant milestone for me in my career and I’m thrilled to be doing it with the vibrant team and listeners at Newstalk as they continue to thrive and cement their position in the Irish media landscape." 

As per a Newstalk statement, she added: “It’s a particular honour for me to take up the reins from Pat Kenny, a broadcaster whose career, skill and passion for the job is an inspiration to all of us.” 

Newstalk Managing Editor Eric Moylan described Claire Byrne, who previously worked at Newstalk, as a “seriously talented and skilful broadcaster," adding: "She is a central part of our ambitious plans for continued audience growth at Newstalk across FM and digital listening,” he said. 

READ NEXT: LIVE: Pat Kenny confirms major change for his Newstalk radio show amid contract extension

An RTÉ spokesperson said the new Today with David McCullagh programme will continue to provide a sharp, accessible take on the day’s top stories, combining diligent journalism with expert analysis.

"The show will feature in-depth interviews with all the key players in the headlines of the day, from political leaders to sporting heroes to cultural icons. It will also continue to deliver informed and trusted reporting of the biggest news developments as they happen. Stories that impact listeners in their everyday lives will be central to the show, as will a variety of features covering health, lifestyle, nature, food, music and much more," the added. 

Speaking about David McCullagh's new presenting role, RTÉ’s Director of Audio, Patricia Monahan said: "For decades audiences across the country have relied on RTÉ Radio 1's mid-morning current affairs programmes for the very best analysis of events as they unfold. David's unparallelled grasp of the political scene at home and abroad, as well as his incisive skills as an interviewer, make him the perfect choice for the Today programme."

David McCullagh to take reins of Today programme on RTÉ Radio 1

The journalist and broadcaster, who currently presents RTÉ’s Six One News and Behind the Story podcast, will step into the top-rating mid-morning slot on the 3rd of November, taking the helm at the station’s… pic.twitter.com/4FTrukEUqD

— RTÉ Radio 1 (@RTERadio1) August 29, 2025

"And as we know from his work on Behind the Ballot and Behind the Story, he has a sharp wit too, and is sure to entertain as well as inform listeners as the Today programme continues to tackle the serious stories as well as offering listeners much-needed changes of pace from the lighter sides of life."