DUBLIN, Ireland - Jim Fahy, RT's former Western Editor, has died after a short illness.

Mr. Fahy, 75, retired as the station's longest-serving regional correspondent in 2011.

President Michael D Higgins said Mr. Fahy as "one of Ireland's finest broadcasters, as evidenced by the almost 40 national and international prizes he has received throughout his outstanding career."

He added: "For generations of people, he was a familiar voice, indelibly associated with the reporting of events across the west of Ireland during his 38 years as RT's first Western News Correspondent.

"It will be as RT's voice of the west of Ireland that Jim will be most fondly remembered." President Higgins said.

Jim Fahy began his journalism career with the Tuam Herald newspaper before transitioning to television in the early 1970s.

His voice became synonymous with life in the west of Ireland over the years that followed.

He also traveled extensively, frequently reporting on the lives of individuals affected by famine, war, and poverty.

Jim was one of the first European journalists to arrive in New York in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Closer to home, he covered the struggle to create an airport in Knock, the protracted negotiations surrounding the Corrib Gas project in North Mayo, and major sporting and social events in Connacht spanning nearly 40 years.

Mr. Fahy announced his retirement on New Year's Eve of 2011.

The legendary broadcaster leaves behind his wife Christina, their children, and grandchildren.