Keith Finnegan announces an end to his 34-year-long radio career at Galway Bay FM
Photo: Keith Finnegan at IMRO Hall of Fame Induction 2022.
On Monday, Galway Bay FM’s Keith Finnegan announced that he would bid farewell to his 34-year-long run as a broadcaster after easter this year.
The IMRO Hall of Fame inductee broke the news in his flagship radio show, ‘Galway Talks’. He said that he would make his last appearance on the show on 12 April, 2024. While not made lightly, Keith’s decision comes after extensive contemplation and discussions with his family.
“I have been doing it for 34 years now,” said Keith Finnegan. “I think it is the right time to pass the reins to a new voice.”
The journey and experience
Reflecting on his journey in radio, Keith shared an anecdote from his childhood, where he and his father built a radio transmitter in their home in Mervue, Galway, setting the stage for his broadcasting passion.
From beginning as a weekend music presenter at Galway Bay FM (then Radio West) in 1989, to taking charge of the station as the CEO/Director, and being focused on the radio program for the last two years, Keith’s contributions have left a mark on Galway’s Radio scene.
Speaking about his experience throughout the years and recalling cherished moments, he said, “Over 30 years, all days were cherishable. I have met so many wonderful people in these 30 years, which I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”
“Every show had a cherishable moment. It is impossible to distinguish any moment as ‘Cherishable’,” he added.
Achievements and appreciation
Some of the personal and professional highlights of the Galway Bay FM Icon include – daily interviews with local and international guests, his participation in the three-day charity event ‘Radiothon’, his invitation to the White House for St Patrick’s Day, and leading the St Patrick’s Day Parade in St Louis as Grand Marshal with his wife Joan.
His professional achievements include multiple IMRO awards and an IMRO Hall of Fame induction in 2022. He thanked the amazing team working with him for making him earn the accolades.
He also thanked the producers, presenters, journalists, administration, digital and sales teams and the board of directors for the station’s success.
Additionally, he also extended his appreciation to the businesses of Galway for their sponsorship and advertising. He then thanked his listeners across the city and the county for their continued engagement and loyalty, which resulted in the longevity of the program.
He recognised his family’s support, especially of his wife Joan and his children Katie and Aidan, and expressed his gratefulness to them. Additionally, Keith highlighted the experience of working alongside his daughter, Katie, as his producer for eight years, creating professional and familial bonds at the workplace.
Future plans
While there are upcoming plans on the horizon, Keith looks forward to sharing them at a later date. He expressed excitement for his upcoming challenges and the prospect of leaving behind the early morning beginnings that have been constant for more than 30 years.
As Galway Bay FM Icon, Keith Finnegan, passes the reins of ‘Galway Talks’ to a new voice, he wishes them all the luck and looks forward to being an avid listener of the show. In turn, the Galway Bay FM community bids farewell to a beloved voice that has been an integral part of their life.
