Maura Derrane: 'I decided on day one, I’d say what I like because I’m a long time doing this job'

As season 12 of Today is on the horizon, Maura feels they are in a better place than ever, both with contributors and viewers. 

Maura Derrane is utterly self-assured and pragmatic about the possibility that in her line of business, these things can end as soon as they begin. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

I wasn't expecting Maura Derrane to be shrill and bird-like but when she caws down the phone, mimicking the corncrake, I’m squealing with laughter.

It’s a solid segue into her earliest memories of having disturbed sleep when the nocturnal bird would keep her awake with its song.