Former RTE journalist Charlie Bird dies aged 74 following long illness

Charlie Bird has died following a long battle with motor neurone disease.

The former broadcaster and journalist passed at the age of 74, after bravely fighting a battle against Motor Neurone Disease.

The Dublin native was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in Autumn 2021.

Despite his diagnosis, Charlie knew he wanted to help others, he organised a charity climb of Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Croagh Patrick.

This quickly became a national event which raised almost €3 million for charities close to his heart, Pieta and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Earlier this March, Charlie said he lived “every day as if it could be my last”.

Speaking on the Brendan O’Connor Show, he said: “I am not doing great. I am confined to a wheelchair. I am being fed through a tube. I am not able to get from A to BE. Claire looks after me around the clock. She is my wife first, but also my full-time carer. I would be lost without her,” he said.

Since the tragic news broke out this morning, tributes have been pouring in for Charlie, who was described as a "beacon of light for so many people down the years."

Charlie's friend, Paul Allen, said: "It is very hard to summarise the impact a pal has had on you and your life when you are faced with such news as Charlie Bird passing today. Charlie Bird has been a beacon of light for so many people down the years. His ability to deal with world and domestic news has been inspiring. He has been even more inspiring in the manner he dealt with motor neurone disease.

"During his illness he reached out the hand of friendship to so many people in dark places during difficult times, offering support, comfort and understanding. This makes today, while difficult, a more memorable and bearable occasion. As we are weeks away from reflecting on another anniversary of Climb with Charlie, we think of him, Claire and family. We also think and give much love to his faithful dog Tiger who was by his side throughout.

"Treasured moments, condolences and deepest sympathy from a long-time friend of Charlie Bird. Charlie asked me to be the lead organiser of the Climb with Charlie campaign."

Alan Kelly TD also paid tribute to the "incredible journalist".

‘I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie Bird. He was a friend of mine whom I got to know very well over the last few years. He was an incredible journalist and broadcaster often breaking and delivering some of the biggest stories in the country," Mr Kelly said.