RTÉ will team up with Munster-based chefs Darina Allen and Séamus O'Connell to create two new prime time food programmes. RTÉ Cork commissioned both programmes for world wide transmission.
"I am delighted to announce that we recently completed the funding for a range of new television production to come out of Cork this year. RTÉ Cork will now produce more prime time television programmes this year than we have ever done before." said Colm Crowley, Head of Broadcasting, RTÉ Cork.
Munster has fast become the centre of Irish food, and both programmes explore this. Darina Allen, one of Ireland's premier chefs, will present Ballymaloe Cookery School, a series of 27 half-hour progammes. The programme will be based on Darina's best selling book and the increasing success of the school. While the adventurous and unconventional chef Séamus O'Connell, who the Guardian described as the best in the world, will present the other food programme.
RTÉ Cork is continuing the Munster theme with The BIZ, a new programme following the first six months in the life of six new Munster-based businesses. A History of Ireland from the Air is another new series coming from RTÉ Cork. Cathal O'Shannon will present the programme. The BIZ and A History of Ireland from the Air will be transmitted in early 2003.
Out of the Blue with Derek Davis returns in the autumn, as does No Disco.
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