Former RTÉ western editor, Jim Fahy, described as "the voice of the west", has died aged 75, following a short illness.
Mr Fahy was RTÉ’s longest serving regional correspondent when he retired in 2011, and was known for his comprehensive reporting and coverage of the region.
President Michael D Higgins recalled Mr Fahy as "one of Ireland's finest broadcasters," whose familiar voice would for many be associated with news about the west of Ireland.
President Higgins described the former broadcaster as the “voice of the west of Ireland”, and also praised his work reporting on the September 11 terror attack in New York.
His work on the long running radio series, Looking West, which featured stories of rural life, was among the highlights of his career, President Higgins said.
“On the occasion of Jim’s final day in RTÉ on 31 December 2011, I suggested that every single thing that happened in the west of Ireland - be it political, cultural or international – the first thing people would say to each other was ‘have you contacted Jim Fahy?,” President Higgins said.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was very sad to learn of the death of Mr Fahy, who he said had a "distinct voice and eye for a story".
Jon Williams, RTÉ managing director, said colleagues were "deeply saddened" by Mr Fahy's death. He is survived by his wife Christina, their children and grandchildren.
His funeral Mass will take place in Cathedral of the Assumption, Tuam, Co Galway on Monday, January 17th at 12pm, followed by burial afterwards in Kilbannon Cemetery.
