The story of a nation – as seen through the letters written to Gay Byrne

For 25 years, Gay Byrne received thousands of letters from listeners all over Ireland. Some of these letters were light-hearted and innocent, but others were more challenging. While many people didn’t feel comfortable sharing their issues with their closest family and friends, they felt that they could trust Gay. And, so, they wrote in their droves …

With his trademark balance of compassion, empathy and humour, Gay read out letters on subjects such as women’s rights, domestic and institutional abuse, mental health and homosexuality, sparking nationwide conversation and debate. The letters here have been lovingly compiled by Gay’s daughter Suzy, who provides commentary about the times in which they were written and the impact they made, on a personal and national level, once they were read on air.

Dear Gay is a sweeping handwritten history of a radically changed Ireland and a fitting tribute to Ireland’s best-loved broadcaster.

Author Bio

Suzy Byrne is the daughter of Gay Byrne and Kathleen Watkins. She lives in Dublin with her husband and children.