04/05/2010

Tributes Continue For Gerry Ryan

Tributes are continuing to pour in for RTE Broadcaster Gerry Ryan (53) who was found dead on Friday.

The radio and television presenter was found at his Dublin apartment based in Upper Leeson Street.

His partner Melanie Verwoerd raised the alarm after his production crew had been unable to contact him when he did not turn up to work.

Irish police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. It is believed that Mr Ryan suffered a heart attack. His family are currently awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination.

Gerry Ryan has been described as a legend on RTE 2fm having been broadcasting for over two decades on the station. He also presented various TV shows.

He separated from his wife Morah of 26 years in 2008 with whom he has five children.

Almost 2,000 people signed a book of condolence at RTE Radio Centre on Sunday. Another book has been opened at Mansion House in Dublin.

Irish President Mary McAleese called Mr Ryan "extraordinarily talented."

The Irish Prime Minister, Brian Cowen, said he was "deeply saddened" by the death of "one of the greats of modern Irish broadcasting on radio and television."

Cathal Goan, Director General RTE commented: "This is a moment of inexpressible grief. We have lost a broadcasting colleague whose presence, voice and work defined a broadcasting genre in Ireland and defined a generation. Those who had the privilege of working with him will have a sense of bewilderment at the suddenness of his leaving us, and an abiding affection for a broadcaster who was a one-off."

Clare Duignan, Managing Director, RTE Radio added: "It is with immense shock that I learned earlier of the death of Gerry Ryan. Gerry was not only one of Ireland's finest broadcasters, he was a beloved friend and colleague to so many in RTE Radio and Television. Our thoughts at this time are with Gerry's family, his children and his friends. Gerry was at the heart of RTE for over 20 years - he was a highly entertaining larger-than-life broadcaster and colleague. He is truly, truly irreplaceable."

Gerry will be given a traditional Irish wake at the family home. Funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.

(BMcN/BMcC)

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