IrishTV launch to create 150 jobs

Next month will see the launch of Ireland's first ever international television channel.

IrishTV will broadcast across the UK, Ireland, Europe and the US from May 1.

Up to 150 new staff are being hired to run the station 24 hours a day, 34 of whom will be based at its headquarters in Westport, County Mayo.

The channel is being funded by Irish-born, multi-millionaire John Griffin, who recently sold the UK's largest minicab company 'Addison Lee' for €360m.

IrishTV says each of the 32 counties will have their own half-hour 'County Matters' show once a week.

IrishTV CEO Pierce O'Reilly, says they are hoping to capture an untapped corner of the media market.

Mr O’Reilly said: “The theme of the County Matters shows is simple – Irish rural life is unique, with its own cultures, traditions and events. At the heart of these events are people, and wherever people gather, we’ll be there.

“Three people will be employed in each county in production, presentation and commercial positions on the County Matters shows, while an initial 34 staff will be based at IrishTV headquarters in Westport, with a further five in our northern office in Donaghmore, Tyrone

“Internationally, ten people will be employed across three UK offices in Manchester, Liverpool and London and an initial five in Irish TV’s US base in Cleveland Ohio.

“With a focus on connecting people to their locality, IrishTV aims to shine a light on rural Ireland and bring the real essence of Irish life to a worldwide audience.

“So whether you’re from Cavan, Carlow, Cork or Clare, there is at least half an hour’s worth of programming a week bringing your local area to you, wherever you are in the world.”