Recently the Today Show announced that presenter, Maura Derrane would be taking a ‘step back’ from the program. Rather than her usual five days a week, Maura will now be taking a break from her Monday and Tuesday slot.
In an interview with The Irish Sun she revealed that she wanted to spend more time with her family. Maura and her husband, John Deasy have a six year old son together, Cal.
Speaking about the decision she said; “I was thinking about it for about a year. I’ve been working a long time in this business and for me it was easier to be gone when Cal was younger.”
“I think he needs me a lot more now. I missed being able to walk him to school and collecting him and doing homework. It’s the right time for me.”
Thankfully Maura shared she had the full support of her team; “RTE backed me the whole way. I’ve been working with them for 11 years now — on the Afternoon Show and 4 Live on my own, before we launched Today.”
Maura’s replacement has already been announced, with Sinéad Kennedy now joining Dáithí two days a week. “It’s great to have their backup. Sinead is great and she’s going to slot right in. It’s going to give the show a fresh feel I think,” Maura said about the shake-up.
In a statement Sinéad revealed; “I’m so excited to be joining Today. Maura, Dáithí and the whole team have been so welcoming and I just can’t wait to get started now.”
“The show is so well-loved and I hope that I can bring something extra this season.”
Dáithí also shared his excitement that she’s joining the team; “We’re really delighted to have Sinéad on board with us. I think she’s made for the show. It’s season nine and it’s a good time to shake things up.”
