RTÉ News Chief Deirdre McCarthy Named Cork Person of the Month

Deirdre McCarthy, the Managing Director for News & Current Affairs at RTÉ, has been named Cork Person of the Month for July 2023. This recognition honors her “groundbreaking role” in leading the national broadcaster during a transformative period in media. As the first woman to helm RTÉ’s news division, McCarthy has made significant strides since her appointment in 2022.

Trailblazer in Media Leadership

Hailing from Douglas, McCarthy has been a pivotal figure in shaping RTÉ’s news output for over three decades. Her extensive experience includes roles as a TV and radio journalist, editor of the political programming, and contributor to major news shows such as Morning Ireland, Six One News, and Prime Time. Her leadership has been characterized by a strong commitment to journalistic integrity, ensuring that RTÉ remains a trusted source of information in an era marked by misinformation.

Throughout her career, McCarthy has demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication. These qualities were highlighted by Awards Founder and Organiser Manus O’Callaghan, who noted, “Deirdre’s appointment as Managing Director of News & Current Affairs at RTÉ is a tremendous achievement, honour and responsibility.” O’Callaghan emphasized the importance of trust in media, particularly in the current climate where “Fake News” is prevalent.

Commitment to Media Literacy

In addition to her leadership role, McCarthy is an advocate for media literacy and the promotion of informed public discourse. Her efforts focus on ensuring that diverse voices are heard and critical issues are examined with rigor and accuracy. This dedication to fair reporting has been a cornerstone of her approach at RTÉ, contributing to the organization’s high ratings in trust surveys.

As part of her recognition, McCarthy’s name will be put forward for consideration as Cork Person of the Year at the annual Gala Awards Lunch scheduled for January 2026. This honor will position her alongside other monthly award recipients, further solidifying her impact in the media landscape.

McCarthy’s groundbreaking achievements at RTÉ not only reflect her personal milestones but also represent a significant step forward for women in media leadership. Her journey continues to inspire future generations of journalists and media professionals.