NUJ tribute to Charlie Bird
The funeral of Charlie Bird takes place at the Mansion House, Dublin on 14 March. The NUJ will be represented by the union’s joint vice presidents Fran McNulty and Gerry Curran, Emma O’Kelly, chair of Dublin broadcasting branch and Séamus Dooley, Irish secretary.
The National Union of Journalists has paid tribute to Charlie Bird, whose death was announced on 12 March.
Séamus Dooley, NUJ Irish Secretary said:
"Although we have been expecting this news it is still a moment of enormous sadness. Supported by his wife Claire, Charlie lived his battle with Motor Neuron Disease in the public gaze, with characteristic determination and searing honesty.
“The qualities he has manifested during his illness - grit, fierce determination and generosity of spirit, were the same qualities which marked Charlie Bird as a journalist. He was passionate about news and had a unique ability to develop relationships. He was stubborn and relentless in pursuit of whatever he set out to achieve. It was typical of Charlie that he insisted on standing with the NUJ at an ICTU rally outside the Russian Embassy in Dublin one month after the invasion of Ukraine.
“His life should not be defined by his illness but by the remarkable qualities he displayed in the face of adversity. He leaves a remarkable legacy.
“In retirement from RTE he enjoyed the freedom to pursue new projects. His commitment to the Marriage equality referendum campaign reflects his genuine interest in social justice.
“I extend sympathy to Claire, to his daughters Orla and Nessa, grandchildren Abigail, Charlie, Edward, Harriet and Hugo to his brothers and to all who will miss Charlie, including so many NUJ colleagues and friends.”
Charlie was a lifelong member of the NUJ and a former Chair of Dublin Broadcasting branch.
Former RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird dies following illness (rte.ie)
Charlie Bird with Séamus Dooley, NUJ Irish Secretary/assistant general secretary at ICTU demonstration outside the Russian Embassy, Dublin on 24th March 2022.