Bryan Dobson shocked the nation when he revealed he was set to leave RTÉ after 37 years at the company.
The broadcaster is set to leave his position as news reporter on Radio One in May.
The Dublin native is best known for his role as the main journalist on RTÉ’s Six One News for 21 years before he left TV to work in radio.
In his announcement back in January, he said: “After 37 fantastic years with RTÉ the time has come to move on. I will miss working with some wonderfully talented and hard-working colleagues.
“RTÉ journalism depends on teamwork and I have worked with some of the very best. I am grateful too to the listeners and viewers who have given me their time and attention over the years.”
“I hope to have repaid that trust with reporting that was relevant, fair and accurate.”
Bryan has opened up about his decision to leave in an interview with RSVP Magazine.
The broadcaster is set to turn 65 in 18 months and as an RTÉ staff member, he would have had to retire at that age anyways.
Speaking to RSVP Magazine, Bryan said: “I had been mulling it over for a while.
Picture: Brian McEvoy
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“I had been thinking about it and talking about it with my wife. I would have to retire in October 2025 anyway, when I turn 65, and I just thought I would do it a bit earlier and have an extra summer off.”
When asked what the main reason for major his semi-early retirement was, he answered: “Age, I am afraid to say – age, the clock, the calendar.”
Speaking on the outpouring of love and support he received after he released his statement, he added: “It was quite nice. I was very grateful and appreciative of it.”
“I stay working until May 3, so my last day will be before the May bank holiday weekend.”
“I am doing what I am always doing, it doesn’t feel any bit different.”
“Once the hoopla died down, it was back to normal business, and I am enjoying it. I am really enjoying these last couple of months.”
