Main pic: Charlie Bird’s loyal dog, Tiger, follows the wicker coffin carrying his remains to the Mansion House. Image: RTÉ News.
Former RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird has been remembered as an inspiration and national treasure and “brave beyond words” at a special service in Dublin to celebrate his life.
The father of two died on Monday aged 74 after a long battle with Motor Neurone Disease, which he was diagnosed with in October 2021.
Mr Bird’s friend and former RTÉ colleague Joe O’Brien is leading the service and described Mr Bird as a household name, who was loved and respected throughout the country.
“He was literally a household name; loved and respected throughout the country,” Mr O’Brien said.
“And in his last three years he moved, as Charlie himself said, from being a well-known journalist to being hailed as a heroic and tireless fundraiser and campaigner.
“Over recent days, there has been an outpouring of grief for Charlie but, of course, it is his family who are feeling his loss most.
“Our hearts go out this afternoon to his beautiful wife Claire, who has been at Charlie’s side, especially every day of his three-year battle with motor neurone disease. We think also of Charlie’s loyal companion Tiger.
“Our hearts also go out to Charlie’s loving daughters, Orla and Neasa, who are devoted to their father and to Charlie’s grandchildren.”
Read the full report on www.rte.ie
