WLR radio station in Waterford has confirmed that Damien Tiernan is to be the new presenter of mid-morning talk/current affairs show 'Deise Today'.
The former RTÉ South East correspondent has described the move as a “dream becoming a reality” as he prepares to take to the airwaves with WLR on February 4.
The award-winning 'Deise Today' is WLR's flagship programme, presented for more than 25 years by legendary broadcaster Billy McCarthy and more recently by former Newstalk broadcaster Eamon Keane.
Damien Tiernan, who is from Newtown Mount Kennedy in Co Wicklow, lives in Passage East in Co Waterford where he has been based since the 90s. He left RTÉ in January after 23 years. He was the second-youngest correspondent ever appointed at the broadcaster at the age of just 26.
Des Whelan, Managing Director at WLR, said he is delighted to welcome Damien Tiernan to WLR.
“Deise Today is a hugely popular programme on WLR and while Damien has big shoes to fill on the 10 to noon slot, he is a hugely capable and respected broadcaster and I know he will do very well.”
Meanwhile, Damien Tiernan says he is very excited to be joining the WLR team.
“I had always thought before that I would love to present this programme and now the dream is becoming a reality,” he said. “The show covers a range of topics extremely well. It's going to be a new challenge for me and 10 hours live broadcasting a week will be invigorating and exciting.”
WLR Programme Director Michael Byrne meanwhile, said that Damien's arrival to WLR reflects the station's commitment to maintaining a top-class local radio service for the people of Waterford.
“Damien is so well-known in Waterford from his TV days and we are absolutely delighted to have signed a contract with him to present 'Deise Today' for the years ahead,” he said.
WLR is one of the best independent radio stations in the country. 'Deise Today' is produced by journalist Jennifer Long, who is also WLR's Current Affairs Editor.