Irish broadcaster affirms support for gender-fluid radio star Jonathan Rachel
Irish broadcaster RTE has affirmed its support for a gender-fluid news presenter, who will sometimes present as a man, and sometimes a woman.
It was announced on air this week that the RTE Radio One news reporter, formerly known as Jonathan Clynch, has opened up about their gender identity.
A respected host, Clynch has been off air for a number of months, but colleagues confirmed today that the presenter would return to air.
After reports in local newspapers, fellow host Marian Finucane confirmed: “After today’s front page, Jonathan wants to speak about his decision on his own terms.
“He was to come in and talk to us here today about the whole thing and to explain it and how his life and that will be changed for the better for him now, but he only found out yesterday that this would be in the papers today.”
“This morning, he decided he would rather not [do the interview].”
Jonathan Rachel Clynch is set to return to the airwaves soon and discuss their gender identity.
A statement from the broadcaster said: “RTE, both as an employer and broadcaster, value the uniqueness of individuals and encourage diversity and equality.
“We are 100 per cent supportive of Jonathan Rachel who is a valued member of staff and a highly respected journalist.”
Last year, local Yorkshire radio host Stephanie Hirst came out as transgender.
Hirst took time out from broadcasting after coming out as trans – but returned to the airwaves with a show for BBC Radio Manchester.
