National: Former RTÉ broadcaster concerned about Ryan Tubridy's return to Irish radio

A former RTÉ broadcaster has expressed concern that the radio landscape in Ireland will be changed "forever" due to Ryan Tubridy's return to Irish radio.

Damien Tiernan, who fronts WLR-FM's flagship programme Déise Today, made the comments on X yesterday morning (Thursday November 16) after news of the former Late Late Show host's new deal with Virgin Media broke online.

Tubridy will reportedly helm weekday mid-mornings on Virgin Radio UK from the News Building in London, and this will be broadcast live simultaneously on Dublin's Q10.

He will also present a dedicated Irish weekend show across Wireless Ireland stations on Dublin’s Q102, Cork’s 96FM, Live 95 in Limerick and LMFM.

Commenting on X, Tiernan said, "Tubridy’s news is one thing. BUT the next is the fact that a programme from outside of this country is going to be broadcast live simultaneously here; and the implications for local radio are massive, opening a big can of worms and change the broadcasting landscape forever here." 

In response to a commenter who stated "It's great that we will have so much choice", Tiernan claimed listeners will actually have less choice and diversity "if things go and continue to go this way". 

Tubridy’s news is one thing. BUT the next is the fact that a programme from outside of this country is going to be broadcast live simultaneously here; & the implications for local radio are massive, opening a big can of worms and change the broadcasting landscape forever here.

— Damien Tiernan (@damienwlr) November 16, 2023

Some social media users agreed with Tiernan's view, with one person stating it was "very unusual" while another said it was "a very worrying development for all of Irish radio". 

One person commented: "I’m with you on this one Damien, wish the man all the best personally but huge implications for here especially local and locally made radio." 

Another user said, "Only a matter of time before all local stations are owned by a few big companies, it's happening at present where some stations simulcast the same show. Add AI into the mix it'll be a big cost saver. Video didn't kill the radio star, monopoly will." 

Concern appears to stem from the belief that Irish presenters at home may lose work or find their slots reduced if such syndicated programming becomes popular, leading to a smaller local offering. 

However, other commenters believe Tiernan is worrying for no reason. 

One person said, "Virgin Media is already available on satellite to my freeserve satellite dish. I can also listen to Graham Norton on BBC Radio 2 but I don't listen to either. Their programs are directed at a British radio audience. Radio is different to TV and Audiences are different." 

Another said, "Will it change it that much? I don't think it will!" 

Meanwhile, Tubridy said he "couldn't be more excited" to get started in his new role. 

He said, "New city, new stations, new beginnings. I love radio and what a joy to be back. It’s been a pleasure getting to know my new friends at Virgin Radio, all of whom have been warm, engaging and very entertaining. It will be great to be back on the radio in the UK and across Ireland.

"And big thanks to the London Irish who have made me feel so welcome in recent weeks. On a personal note, this is a big day for my wonderful family who I hope to make proud, and also the people who advised me so well recently and got me to this moment.

"To the listeners, wherever they may be, I urge you to join us on this adventure every weekday morning - and across Ireland at the weekend. There is much fun to be had!" 

Tubridy will make his debut in early January.