Veteran broadcaster and author Fergal Keane, best known for covering the genocide in Rwanda in the 1990s, has announced that he is retiring from RTÉ after three decades.
Keane, a relative of critically-acclaimed Kerry writer John B. Keane, was born in London but raised in Dublin and Cork. He first joined RTÉ following some time as a journalist with the Limerick Leader and then The Irish Press.
The 62-year-old radio host and broadcaster, who recently published a memoir on his experience suffering with PTSD from reporting in war-torn regions, took to Twitter to break the news.
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He said: "After nearly three decades reporting for RTE Radio I have decided to leave RTE to pursue other interests. It’s been an honour to tell people’s stories."
The OBE awardee, which is given to individuals for their order of chivalry in arts and sciences, joined the BBC in 1989, quickly rising through the ranks to become their Southern African Correspondent.
For four years between 1990 to 1994 he covered the township unrest in South Africa post-apartheid and then the Rwandan Genocide, after which he penned a 'Season of Blood: A Rwandan Journey.'
Keane won an Amnesty International Press Award in 1993 and another for TV in 1994 for his investigation into the genocide as well as receiving the James Cameron Prize for war reporting.
In 2020, the BBC announced that Keane was suffering with PTSD. He told the Irish Times last year that he suffered from nightmares and flashback from what he witnessed in Rwanda and Sudan.
Keane, now stepping back from RTÉ, said he is looking forward to new ventures in his home in West Cork.
"That includes being a part time farmer, part time sailor and part time content provider and writer for hire. A bit early for me but the draw of other adventures is strong," he stated.
Countless colleagues and those in RTÉ, BBC and the media industry have wished him well since this Thursday's announcement. Morning Ireland presenter Rachel English said: "The best of luck Fergal. You'll be missed."
Another said: "Best of luck Ferg, you gave some service to RTE and many more."
Keane concluded: "After nearly 40 years in journalism reporting from all over the world I can say we only exist because people talk to us in the face of intolerance and intimidation."
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