Ray D'Arcy 'hugely disappointed' with RTÉ following sudden departure
Ray D'Arcy
Kildare native Ray D’Arcy has said he is “hugely disappointed” at the manner which RTÉ management have handled his sudden departure.
The shock news emerged on Thursday afternoon that the Mr D’Arcy’s daily show has come to an end as of Wednesday.
In a statement this afternoon, D’Arcy said: “First off, I am hugely disappointed with RTÉ management and how my departure from Radio 1 has been handled.
“I’ve been with Radio 1 for the past 11 years. In that time I have worked with some brilliant people. I want to thank them. I also want to thank all the regulars on the show, the guests and the wonderful loyal listeners.”
He added: “I am particularly proud of how the show championed the stories and causes of people like Catherine Corless, Erica Fleming, Katriona O’Sullivan and the late Vicky Phelan.
“I am also very proud of how we highlighted mental health and addiction issues over the years — these are areas I will continue to be active in. I love radio and daily radio is part of who I am. I look forward to the opportunities ahead."
RTÉ have not yet commented on Mr D’Arcy’s pointed remarks, instead offering platitudes. RTÉ said: "The Ray D'arcy Show championed Irish artists and music over the years, as well as hosting many memorable, funny, and entertaining moments.
"The programme encouraged tens of thousands of people all around the country to get active with the hugely popular Run with Ray series, which brought runners and non-runners together to run 5km with Ray at events in their local communities. "
RTÉ’s director of audio, Patricia Monahan said: "I would like to sincerely thank Ray for his contribution to RTÉ Radio 1 over the last eleven years. While The Ray D’Arcy Show is not part of our future plans, we wish him well in his future endeavours.
"Details of future plans for RTÉ Radio 1 will be announced soon. Shay Byrne will present for the remainder of the week. "
