Published Friday, 01 July 2011
The veteran journalist died at the age of 76, leaving behind a considerable legacy from his distinguished career which spanned four decades.
"I think words like legendary and iconic are often over-used and abused, but not in the case of David Dunseith," former UTV News Editor and BBC Controller Robin Walsh said.
"For many reasons, particularly to do with the Troubles, Northern Ireland has produced an endless stream of brilliant first-class broadcasters.
"And I think if you were to ask anyone, David Dunseith's name would be on the tip of the tongue."
Originally from Londonderry, David Dunseith's working life began as a Drug Squad police officer before a career in the media beckoned in the 70s.
During the Troubles, he became established as the anchor of UTV Reports and would later reminisce about his experiences during UTV's 50th birthday celebrations.
He had a reputation for grilling his interviewees on both television and radio and was admired for his professionalism, fairness and sensitivity.
UTV’s Paul Clark
He also returned to co-present UTV Live, along with his wife and fellow journalist Roisin Walsh - who passed away in July 2010 following a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
"That was the first time I met him and what a lovely gentleman," Michael Wilson, Managing Director of UTV Television, said.
"Genuinely interested in news, genuinely interested in Northern Ireland's society and what you heard and what you saw was actually the gentleman he was.
"Everybody here will miss him and send our condolences to his family."
The First and Deputy First Ministers led tributes from across the political divide and said both the world of journalism and Northern Ireland had suffered a great loss.
"David was the consummate professional," Peter Robinson said.
"His remarkable 20-year tenure of the Talkback programme was testament to his powerful interview techniques and his wonderful journalistic instinct."
Martin McGuinness added: "Over the last 20 years - perhaps the most difficult years in our history - David was, for me and I am sure many others, quite simply the voice of radio here."
David Dunseith's death comes after retirement earlier this year, when he stepped away from the BBC Talkback show he had worked on for over 20 years.
His successor Wendy Austin said his voice was "immediately recognisable and loved" in so many homes across Northern Ireland and beyond.
"Friend and foe alike regarded him with respect," she said.
"We will all miss him."