Irish journalist and motor neurone disease advocate Charlie Bird has died aged 74

Charlie Bird, formerly the chief news correspondent at Ireland's national broadcaster RTÉ, died on Monday, March 11. He was 74 years old.

Bird was renowned for his long and distinguished career in broadcasting and journalism. In the wake of his motor neurone disease (MND) diagnosis in October 2021, he turned to charity work and raising awareness about the disease.

In January 2022, just months after his diagnosis, Bird launched the "Climb with Charlie" charity climb of Croagh Patrick in Co Mayo. Held in April, the event spurred some 200 "Climb with Charlie" fundraisers across Ireland and ultimately raised €3.4 million for a number of charities including the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta.

For the climb, Bird was joined by his wife, Claire, and his daughters, Orla and Neasa. At the peak, he said, “Even though I still cry a lot and with my motor neuron, crying is not that unusual; most times that I cry now is as a result of the kindness that is being extended to me every day.”

On February 29, in what would be his final post on X, Bird said he was "still hanging in" and that he was planning on leading a walk in Wicklow for Samaritan volunteers in April.

I want to extend the hand of friendship to all carers across the country. I now have first hand experience of the valuable work they do.

I am still hanging in. And in April I will be leading a walk in Wicklow for all Samaritan volunteers. Details to follow

— Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) February 29, 2024

Born in Dublin, Bird began his career in journalism in the 1970s. He initially worked as a reporter for the Leinster Leader before moving to the Evening Press. His talent and dedication quickly became evident, leading to his rise through the ranks of Irish journalism.

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A promo shot of Charlie Bird for Senior Times.

In 1980, Charlie Bird joined RTÉ (Raidió Teilifís Éireann), Ireland's national public service media organization, where he would become one of the most recognizable faces in Irish broadcasting. He covered a wide range of stories over the years, from domestic affairs to international events, demonstrating his versatility and journalistic prowess.

One of Bird's most notable assignments was as RTÉ's Chief News Correspondent. He gained widespread acclaim for his coverage of major news stories, including the Northern Ireland peace process, the Good Friday Agreement, and the aftermath of the September 11 attacks in the United States.

However, it was his reporting from the field that truly distinguished Bird's career. He embarked on numerous foreign assignments, reporting from conflict zones, disaster areas, and humanitarian crises around the world. His fearless reporting from places like Somalia, Rwanda, and Bosnia-Herzegovina earned him respect and admiration from audiences and peers alike.

In 2009, after over three decades with RTÉ, Bird retired from his full-time role with the broadcaster. However, retirement did not mark the end of his career. He continued to contribute to journalism through various projects, including documentaries and writing. He also remained active in public life, using his platform to advocate for causes close to his heart, such as mental health awareness.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bird is known for his warmth, humor, and genuine passion for storytelling. His legacy as a journalist continues to inspire new generations of reporters in Ireland and beyond, reminding them of the importance of integrity, compassion, and courage in the pursuit of truth.