Trusted journalism since 1859 Director general says not paying presenters might have resulted in ‘legal fight’ that could have ‘cost us a shedload more’ Claire Byrne and Ray D'Arcy: received almost €100,000 after they stopped presenting their shows on Radio 1. Photographs: Conor McCabe/Newstalk/Alan BetsonByrne topped the highest-paid presenters list in 2025 on €280,000, while D’Arcy was in fifth place on €219,992.