Keelin Shanley, the Six One presenter and journalist, has passed away at the age of 51.
Shanley took over as the host of the Six One News in early 2018 alongside Caitriona Perry, becoming the first all-female duo to present the news programme. Shanley, however, stepped away from the programme following her cancer diagnosis.
In a statement, RTÉ News MD Jon Williams said that "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."
RTÉ Director-General Dee Forbes described Shanley as "a passionate and dedicated public service journalist" who had "an expertise that challenged and probed as well as an ease that endeared her to all."
Already, tributes have poured in online for Shanley and her family.
Really sorry to hear of the passing of Keelin Shanley. An excellent broadcaster but always a kind and generous broadcaster to younger peers. Comhbhrón ó chroí to her family, friends and colleagues at @rte.
— Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) February 8, 2020
Just devastated to hear Keelin Shanley has died. Honestly one of the most incredible people you’d ever meet. Gutsy, passionate, great fun, determined, a hugely talented journalist. Dazzled always, but never more so than when she was ill. So sad for Conor and Lucy and Ben.
— Alison O'Connor (@alisonoconn) February 8, 2020
Keelin Shanley was kind & considerate, a thoroughly decent person, a journalist filled with empathy and a sense of right. A wonderful colleague, who will be so sorely missed, most of all by her family & children. RIP Keelin.
— Fran McNulty (@franmcnulty) February 8, 2020
