RTÉ have announced the death of broadcaster Keelin Shanley following an illness.

She was 51.

Keelin had been dealing with cancer for some time and passed away peacefully this afternoon.

With over 20 years experience as a journalist and broadcaster, she had most recently been anchor of the Six One News on RTÉ One.

Jon WIlliams, Managing Director of RTÉ News & Current Affairs, described her as a “fearless, generous, and passionate” journalist.

“Keelin was the best of us – and we are heartbroken,” he said.

“Her legacy of over 20 years journalism with RTÉ saw her help tell the stories of so many often marginalised. She strove to inform, probe and encourage. Always inquisitive, interested, thoughtful and kind.

“The fact that she presented our flagship Six One News while dealing with cancer is inspirational in itself and so typical of Keelin’s determination to live life to the full.

“Our hearts go out to Conor, Lucy and Ben and her wider family. We are all poorer for her loss.”

RTÉ Director-General, Dee Forbes, said: “Everybody at RTÉ is deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend Keelin Shanley.

“A passionate and dedicated public service journalist, Keelin had an expertise that challenged and probed as well as an ease that endeared her to all.

“Most recently, Keelin co-presented the Six One News, watched by huge audiences daily. Keelin was incredibly popular with all her colleagues. But our loss is nothing compared to that of her much-loved family. “