RTE have plenty on the box to keep us entertained

RTE is keeping key programmes and services on air despite everything happening in the world, as well as announcing a host of new programmes and schedules to keep us entertained and informed over the coming weeks.

The all-new RTE schedule includes their 'Home School Hub' for primary students, which will be broadcast on RTÉ2 twice a day, as well as providing educational materials online and on the RTE Player.

They will also broadcast live from the Department of Health every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 7pm on RTÉ One, while new programme 'Lessons from Wuhan' will see David McCullagh speaking to leading Chinese medical professionals in Wuhan and to a panel of leading Irish medical professionals.  RTE News will continue to cover breaking developments, on air and online, while 'Prime Time' and 'Claire Byrne Live' will have analysis of the crisis.

'Operation Covid Nation' with Kathryn Thomas will broadcast in April, while in the realm of sport the broadcaster will be reliving some of best golden moments from over the years.

A range of classic TV shows and movies will return to Irish TV screens, including 'Love/Hate', 'Bachelors Walk', 'Pure Mule', and 'The Guard'. 'Derry Girls' will air for the first time on Irish television.

In addition, RTÉ Player will offer a range of binge-worthy box sets, and TV viewers can also enjoy some brand-new international drama, including the third series of 'Killing Eve', 'The Act', 'Grey’s Anatomy', and 'Derry Girls'.

2FM will be joining forces with Childline, to bring some of Ireland's top artists come together to present a two week long digital live music event in support of children in Ireland.

Dee Forbes, Director-General, said of the RTE schedule: "People at home and abroad are coming to RTÉ in huge numbers right now. Up-to-date news and information has rarely been so important and it remains a key priority in our schedules. We’re also doing all we can to lighten the mood too, where possible, and to entertain people and families as we all develop new routines. We’re supporting virtual community initiatives that bring us together while we have to be apart, and we’re supporting teachers, children and parents through this uncertain period. Mass and minority faith messages are available too.

"These are the first of what will be many changes to our schedules and services over the coming weeks. I want to assure audiences that RTÉ will be with you every day and every night, on the radio, on your phone, online and on your TV. RTÉ is your national broadcaster and we will do all we can at this time of national crisis to keep audiences informed, entertained and connected."