Many tributes have been paid to RTÉ Radio One Seascapes presenter and producer Fergal Keane, who has announced he is leaving the national broadcaster to pursue new interests.

Keane announced his departure on Twitter on March 16th, and on-air during his last episode of Seascapes on RTÉ Radio 1 on March 17th.

“After nearly three decades reporting for RTÉ Radio One have decided to leave RTÉ to pursue other interests. It’s been an honour to tell people’s stories,”he tweeted.

“That includes being a part-time farmer, part-time sailor and part-time content provider and writer for hire. A bit early for me but the draw of other adventures is strong,” Keane continued.

“After nearly 40 years in journalism reporting from all over the world I can say we only exist because people talk to us in the face of intolerance and intimidation. Only sadness leaving is that the Seascapes programme will come to an end for now,”he said.

His last Seascapes programme on March 17th reported on the work of Valentia Coast Guard in Co Kerry.

The RTÉ Radio 1 website said the programme is “going off the air for a time, but RTÉ has committed to having Seascapes return to the air in the autumn”.

The weekly radio programme initiated by former RTÉ broadcaster Tom MacSweeney has played a highly influential role in offering a voice to the marine sector over decades.

Writer Paul Howard (alias Ross O’Carroll Kelly in The Irish Times) was one of many to respond on Twitter.

Howard tweeted “I see you've chosen a good day to bury this bad news, Fergal!”

“So sorry to hear you'll be disappearing from the airwaves. One of the best in the business. My work experience as a kid in the Irish Press wouldn't have been the same without you! “Howard tweeted.

Fergal Keane’s final Seascapes programme can be heard HERE