Evanne Ní Chuilinn named as Fine Gael senator by Tánaiste

Broadcaster Evanne Ní Chuilinn has resigned from her role in RTÉ and has been named as a Fine Gael senator by Tánaiste Simon Harris.

Mr Harris said: "I am delighted Evanne has decided to join Fine Gael and will be a Fine Gael Senator. She is an accomplished broadcaster, journalist and author, but also a passionate advocate for women in sport, mental health and women's healthcare.

"She is a fantastic addition to the Fine Gael team and this is a very exciting day for Evanne, her family, but also for the Fine Gael party.

"Evanne embodies the core Fine Gael value of equality of opportunity. I know she will work hard to bring her experience and energy to her work in the Seanad and to the communities she serves," he said

Ms Ní Chuilinn said she is "delighted to have been given this opportunity by the Tánaiste" and is looking forward to "working with my new colleagues, delivering for Ireland as part of the Fine Gael team in government."

"I have enjoyed a varied and exciting career in sports broadcasting for more than two decades - one which I will miss and I am grateful to have had.

"I have never taken for granted the platform my career has afforded me and have been conscious to use my voice in advocating for issues that I've had lived experience of.

"I am passionate about women and girls in sport, minority sports and an Ghaeilge, and as I enter public life, I will continue to live by those passions. I have spoken publicly on private matters such as suicide, mental health, women's health and infertility. These are issues which I know impact so many people across the country and I want, where I can, to be an advocate for them.

In a statement RTÉ wished Ms Ní Chuilinn "the very best of luck as she takes on a new and different challenge".