RTE has confirmed that Six One News presenter Keelin Shanley has passed away at the age of 51.
In a post on its website this afternoon, RTE confirmed that Keelin Shanley died peacefully this afternoon.
RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley dies following illness https://t.co/G0qh9jhrWI
— RTÉ (@rte) February 8, 2020
In 2018, Shanley was announced as the new co-presenter of RTE’s flagship six o’clock news programme, alongside Caitriona Perry. They were the first female duo to anchor the show but Shanley’s time on the programme was cut short when she was diagnosed with cancer. In RTE’s statement, Keelin Shanley is described as a ‘warm, tenacious and fiercely intelligent journalist, an exceptional broadcaster and a wonderful colleague.’
Speaking about the news, Jon Williams, Managing Director of RTÉ News & Current Affairs said: “For Keelin, the story was never about her – always about others. Her legacy of over 20 years journalism with RTÉ saw her help tell the stories of so many often marginalised.
“She strove to inform, probe and encourage. Always inquisitive, interested, thoughtful and kind.”
RTÉ Director-General Dee Forbes added: “Everybody at RTÉ is deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend Keelin Shanley. A passionate and dedicated public service journalist, Keelin had an expertise that challenged and probed as well as an ease that endeared her to all.”
