RTÉ 100: From shortwave radio to instant phone updates

In 1961, Ireland's Uachtarán Éamon de Valera inaugurated RTÉ television, warning of its immense power to shape public opinion. The introduction of television changed the landscape of news and information sharing in Ireland. RTÉ News has documented the evolution of news gathering and coverage over the past century as part of the RTÉ100 anniversary.

The historic black-and-white footage of an early documentary showcased the inner workings of television technology in 1965, captivating viewers with its behind-the-scenes look. The rollout of the first RTÉ News TV service quickly became a staple in Irish households. Early hiring of TV news journalists primarily came from a print journalism background, with Wesley Boyd, former Director of News, noting that all journalists were from newspapers.

The news service played a pivotal role in Irish homes, as seen in the 1966 farmers' protest story, which sparked national discussions despite government objections. Charles Mitchel, an actor-turned-newsreader, became a household name, beloved by viewers who frequently greeted him with "Goodnight, Charles" at the end of the bulletin.

The 1970s brought color television to RTÉ News, transforming the way stories were produced. In 1985, the transition from film to tape allowed for more flexibility, speed, and mobility in news coverage. The introduction of mobile units in the 1980s provided news crews with even greater flexibility to cover stories across Ireland.

RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland program debuted in 1984, while the News at One and This Week programs have remained consistent elements of the news radio service. RTÉ News went online in 1996, expanding its reach and capabilities. Over the past decade, the newsroom has witnessed a significant shift in gender diversity, with women now comprising nearly two-thirds of the workforce.