An Post has unveiled the first stamp in its 2026 Stamp Programme, commemorating 100 Years of Broadcasting in Ireland. The stamp was launched today at the General Post Office (GPO) by Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, marking a major milestone in Ireland’s cultural and social history.
The centenary celebrates the evolution of broadcasting since New Year’s Day 1926, when 2RN, the first radio broadcasting station in the Irish Free State, went on air. This historic moment gave the newly independent nation a powerful new voice. Television broadcasting followed on New Year’s Eve 1961 with the launch of Teilifís Éireann, later known as RTÉ Television, further transforming how Irish people connected with news, culture and one another.
Designed by Dublin-based agency Red&Grey, the stamp features a striking antenna motif, with transmission signals radiating across the country to symbolise the reach and impact of broadcasting nationwide. A limited-edition first day cover envelope will also be available from anpost.com/shop with free delivery and from selected post offices from 15 January.
From its earliest days to its current role as Ireland’s national public service media organisation, RTÉ has remained central to the story of Irish broadcasting. Today, its television, radio and digital services, along with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, continue to inform, engage and entertain audiences at home and across the global Irish community. The centenary reflects not only the development of broadcasting, but also the story of a nation finding and sharing its identity.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Patrick O’Donovan highlighted the importance of broadcasting in shaping modern Ireland. He noted that, despite limited resources in the early years of independence, the State prioritised creating a national voice. He said radio remains one of the most accessible and popular forms of communication, with broadcasters playing a vital role in Irish culture, identity and character over the past century.
RTÉ Director-General Kevin Bakhurst welcomed the recognition, describing the commemorative stamp as especially meaningful given the shared history between RTÉ and An Post, both rooted in the GPO. RTÉ Director of Audio Patricia Monahan added that the centenary year would be both celebratory and reflective, exploring why public service media continues to matter.
An Post CEO David McRedmond also acknowledged the shared heritage of the two organisations, congratulating RTÉ on 100 years of public service. To mark the anniversary, RTÉ will broadcast live from the GPO on Thursday 15 January, featuring special programmes across its radio stations, honouring a century of Irish broadcasting from its historic heart.
