O'Herlihy Communications, the public relations firm founded by the former RTÉ broadcaster Bill O'Herlihy, plans to merge with Insight Consultants, the communications firm run by Michael Parker.

Mr O’Herlihy, who founded his company more than 40 years ago, will become a “senior director” of the merged company while Mr Parker will be its managing director.The combined company will have a staff of about 20, and will be based at Insight’s offices in Sandyford in Dublin.

Insight, which was established nine years ago, was formerly the press adviser to the Rehab group. O’Herlihy Communications has in the past worked with clients including tobacco companies.