When the newly-minted Taoiseach and your old friend the President both take time out to pay tribute to you on your last day at work, you know you must have done alright – which was what happened to Keith Finnegan on his final time behind the Galway Bay FM mic.

As he brought the curtain down on a stellar 34-year career with the station, Simon Harris came on the line to wish him well and Michael D Higgins thanked him ‘him for his years of interesting inquiry and commentary on how Galway’s heart beats’.

The man himself took it all in his stride, thanking his colleagues at a special reception afterwards as he contemplated the next chapter in his life.

His journey with Galway Bay FM commenced in 1989, during the station’s earlier incarnation as Radio West. Over the years, he carved an indelible mark on the airwaves, earning recognition and admiration, including an induction into the prestigious IMRO Hall of Fame.

“As I bid farewell after nearly 34 years and over 20,000 hours on the airwaves, I am immensely grateful for the privilege of serving the Galway community,” Keith said.

“While this chapter comes to a close, I eagerly anticipate embarking on new ventures, albeit with a cherished connection to Galway Bay FM always in my heart.”

And with that he departed, leaving the hot seat to him replacement John Morley, who has taken over the Galway Talks morning slot.

Pictured: Galway Bay FM broadcaster Keith Finnegan on his final morning of broadcasting Galway Talks, after 34 years of broadcasting on the radio station.