Spotlight turns on Marian with radio award

SHE’S used to interviewing those in the spotlight, but Marian Finucane has found herself on the far side of the microphone after being honoured for outstanding achievement in the country’s premier annual radio awards.

The PPI (Phonographic Performance Ireland) Awards will be made at a ceremony in the Lyrath House Estate Hotel in Kilkenny tonight, but a sneak preview was allowed yesterday after it was revealed the top-ratings RTÉ broadcaster would receive the coveted special award.

Ms Finucane, 58, said she was delighted by the award which recognises her achievements in radio over a 34-year career, highlights of which include presenting the groundbreaking Women’s Today programme when it aired for the first time in 1979, making Liveline essential listening and taking over from the revered Gay Byrne when he left his morning slot in 1999.