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BBC news presenter quits with ‘immediate effect’ after 33 years on the job

Donna Traynor presenter BBC Newsline Northern Ireland. (BBC)
Donna Traynor presenter BBC Newsline Northern Ireland. (BBC)

BBC news presenter Donna Traynor has quit her role "with immediate effect" after 33 years with the company.

The 56-year-old journalist, who presented BBC Northern Ireland Newsline, made the announcement in a statement to her 17,000 Twitter followers on 15 November.

“It is with deep sadness that, after almost 33 years, I am leaving the job that I love and resigning from BBC Northern Ireland with immediate effect,” she wrote.

Read more: Nicky Campbell tearful as he says goodbye to BBC Radio 5 Live 'Breakfast Show'

Traynor went on to confirm that “Because this is the subject of ongoing employment tribunal and other legal proceedings, I am not able to respond to any questions or comments about my reasons for leaving the organisation.”

A spokesperson for the BBC shared a statement with various news outlets saying: “We do not comment on individual staff matters.”

Many of Traynor’s colleagues quickly inundated her replies with kind messages of support.

RTÉ and BBC broadcaster Audrey Carville said: “Really sorry to read this Donna. Will very much miss your professionalism and credibility on our screens. Wishing you well.”

Read more: Louise Minchin promises she'll always be part of 'BBC Breakfast' family

Jayne McCormack, BBC NI political correspondent, commented: “So sad to read this, you were a constant presence when I was growing up watching the news and getting to work with you was a privilege. Take care.”

Marie-Louise Connolly, health correspondent, added: “Donna what sad news. We’ve been in this newsroom together for a very long time. Good luck for the next chapter.”

Donna Traynor spent her career working on BBC Newsline Northern Ireland among others. (BBC)
Donna Traynor spent her career working on BBC Newsline Northern Ireland among others. (BBC)

Virgin Media news correspondent Richard Chamber also chimed in to say:So sorry to see this Donna. You’re an incredible professional and journalist. Best wishes and look forward to seeing your work again soon!”

Traynor started her broadcasting career with RTÉ before joining the BBC in 1989 where she first presented radio bulletins before moving into television.

As well as presenting Newsline she fronted programmes like County Times and coverage of the Balmoral show for BBC Northern Ireland as well as hosting programmes like Children In Need.

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