Muireann O’Connell on ‘bittersweet’ news her former show has been shortlisted for IMRO Radio Awards

Muireann O’Connell told how it is "bittersweet" as her former Today FM show was shortlisted for the IMRO Radio Awards 2019.

The awards, which are sponsored by IMRO and BAI, will take place on Friday October 4 at the Lyrath Estate Hotel Kilkenny. The Six O'Clock Show host, who was announced to be leaving Today FM last month in a massive shakeup, said she was "delighted" for the team working on the Muireann O'Connell Show, which was shortlisted in the General Music Programme category. She told Her:

"I am delighted for the team that worked on my old show. Pamela Blake put in so much hard work into that show and she deserves it. For me, it’s that cliché, bittersweet."

The presenter was also shortlisted in the Music & Entertainment Presenter of the Year category, alongside Today FM's Dermot Whelan; 98Fm's Luke O'Faolain; Cork's Red FM's Ray Foley and 98Fm's Dara Quilty.

Incredibly grateful for both my @IMRORadioAwards nominations. Now, would station anyone have an ol’ spare seat?

— Muireann O'Connell (@MuireannO_C) September 3, 2019

Speaking after the shortlist was announced, Eleanor McEvoy, IMRO Chairperson said:

“After much deliberation and debate the judges have selected an incredible shortlist of185 Finalists whose broadcasting output fully embodies the broad spectrum of radio content in Ireland today. "Irish audiences’ appetite for quality radio output continues to grow, fuelling outstanding creativity, story-telling and audience engagement from broadcasters throughout the country. "And this is abundantly evident from the quality of submissions received this year. We wish all of the shortlisted entrants the very best of luck”

Speaking about the significance of the event, Chair of the IMRO Radio Awards committee, Tom McGuire said:

“The IMRO Radio Awards is an important media milestone as it recognises the excellence of Irish radio; celebrates the contribution of broadcasters to the national conversation and for one night only brings together the nation's stations.”