FORMER BBC NI newsreader Donna Traynor has thanked those who supported her as a discrimination case brought against the BBC has been settled.

The industrial tribunal was resolved without any admission of liability on either side in Belfast today.

Traynor, a former BBC Newsline presenter, had alleged she was discriminated against on the basis of age, sex and disability.

The BBC and its Northern Ireland director Adam Smyth were respondents in the case.

Adam Smyth, director of BBC NI, leaving the industrial tribunal brought by former BBC newsreader Donna Traynor. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo

When the case opened on Wednesday, Traynor’s counsel, Patrick Lyttle KC, said she had faced bullying and harassment following her opposition to a BBC plan to move her to a radio position several days a week in 2019.

But today, Lyttle read out a short, agreed statement between the two sides.

It stated: “The dispute between Donna Traynor and the BBC and Adam Smyth has ended, without any admission of liability on the part of either respondent.

“Donna Traynor acknowledges the BBC and Adam Smyth continue to refute strongly all the allegations made against them, including the claims made on the opening day of the tribunal.

“The parties are pleased that this matter has been brought to a conclusion and intend to put it behind them.”

The statement made no reference to costs or any financial settlement.

Traynor left the tribunal without making any further comment.

But she tweeted: “My employment tribunal case is now settled and over.

“Many thanks to everyone who has sent me supportive messages in recent times. Wishing you well. Donna.”

My employment tribunal case is now settled and over. Many thanks to everyone who has sent me supportive messages in recent times. Wishing you well. Donna

— Donna Traynor (@DonnaTraynorTV) June 2, 2023

Traynor resigned in November 2021 after nearly 33 years at the broadcaster.

She had raised a formal grievance after refusing to accept a plan that would have involved her moving to presenting the Evening Extra radio show several nights a week.

She joined the BBC in 1989 and presented radio news bulletins before moving into TV.

She has been nominated twice for the Royal Television Society award for presenter of the year.