Statement by President Higgins on the death of Deirdre Purcell
Date: Mon 13th Feb, 2023 | 17:09
“Sabina and I have learnt with sadness of the passing of Deirdre Purcell, whose life’s work extended across the wide spectrum of the arts and broadcasting.
In a distinguished career, Deirdre left a singular contribution in all of the different aspects of literature and broadcasting to which she turned her many talents – from her work as an actress in the Abbey Theatre, through her award-winning print journalism and time as the first female anchor of RTÉ’s Nine O’Clock news, and on to her critically acclaimed creative work in fiction.
She will be remembered by colleagues and friends for her warm and creative presence.
I particularly recall one afternoon where Deirdre interviewed Brendan Kennelly and myself for the Sunday Tribune, the attention to detail which she gave to such interviews was indicative of the skill with which she went about her work and has been often remarked upon by her many admirers.
Sabina and I extend our deepest condolences to Deirdre’s husband Kevin Healy, her sons Adrian and Simon Weckler, and to her wide circle of family and friends.”