RTÉ appoints Samantha Libreri as new eastern correspondent

RTÉ has confirmed that Samantha Libreri will be the broadcaster's new eastern correspondent.

Her area will include Dublin, east Meath, north and east Kildare, and north Wicklow, covering stories across various topics, including politics, economics and culture.

The mother of two from Finglas in Dublin, first joined RTÉ as a runner in November 2000, while studying English and Sociology at University College Dublin (UCD).

She was appointed as a reporter in 2005, and has since presented some of RTÉ Radio's flagship news programmes, including Morning Ireland and Drivetime.

RTÉ added Libreri will begin her new position in late May.

"As someone who was born and reared on the northside of Dublin and who has lived and worked all my life in the capital, being appointed RTÉ’s eastern correspondent is a dream come true," she said of her new role.

"I hope to bring my 20 years of reporting experience to this new and expanded role to tell the stories of those who live in the commuter belts of Meath, Kildare and Wicklow while also keeping audiences up to date with the major developments in Dublin which impact on those who live, work in and visit the capital.

"I have always been so proud to work for RTÉ and am delighted to be taking on this role at such a vital time for reliable, accurate and engaging journalism," Libreri added.