Television and Radio
In the Republic , RTE (Radio Telefis Eireann) runs two state-sponsored television channels: RTE 1 and Network 2. RTE 1 reflects the state broadcasting policy with an emphasis on public information and a commitment to Irish-language and bilingual programmes. Network 2 is more upbeat, with plenty of chat shows and youth-oriented programmes. There are two relatively new independent channels: TV3 which features mostly British and American soaps, films and sport, and the excellent Irish-language channel Telefis na Ghaeilge (TG4 as it is commonly referred to). TG4 has succeeded in its attempt to use the contemporary medium of television to reinvigorate the language, reflected in much of its programming which is youth-oriented, upbeat and visually progressive. In the North you get the BBC whose strongest programming is related to politics: look out for the current affairs programme Spotlight on BBC1 on Tuesday evenings, while Talkback with David Dunseith, daily 11am to 1pm on BBC Radio Ulster, gives an insight into the complex sectarian politics of the north. The independent Ulster Television, the BBC's main rival, focuses on softer news issues. Many northerners also tune into RTE which can also be picked up north of the border. Throughout Ireland the four major English terrestrial TV channels are available on cable, as are satellite channels such as Sky One and Skysport. RTE also runs three radio stations - Radio 1, 2 and FM3. RTE1 is devoted to middle/high-brow music, and cultural and political programmes. RTE 2 is a popular music channel with a more light-hearted feel; in the mornings for a flavour of everyday Irish life tune into RTE 2's Gerry Ryan Show from 9am to noon where the host has the ability to turn the most mundane subjects into highly entertaining radio. FM3 is the national Irish-language station, Radio na Gaeltachta, which shares the frequency with classical music programming. Today FM was launched as an ambitious attempt to rival the state-owned media, and although its daytime output is rather uninspiring, its evening broadcasting, a mix of politics, satire and informed musical opinion is by far the best in the country: The Last Word , weekdays from 5 till 7pm, a current affairs programme hosted by the outspoken Eamonn Dunphy, is followed from 7 to 9pm by Pet Sounds where Tom Dunne trawls through his eclectic and, at times, idiosyncratic music collection, while the evening winds down to the dulcet tones of Kerryman Donal Dineen, an authority on contemporary electronic music. Deregulation of the radio has resulted in the growth of local radio on the FM airwaves. The quality varies, but you'll find some interesting fare, including all-Irish stations in Connemara and Ring, Co. Waterford, that are worth listening to for traditional music, country and western and insights into local issues.
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