RTÉ to broadcast Ahern documentary series

RTÉ has revealed its autumn and winter schedule, which includes more than 70 new home-produced series and programmes.

RTÉ has revealed its autumn and winter schedule, which includes more than 70 new home-produced series and programmes.

More than 40 new documentaries will air in the coming months, including Bertie, a three-part series about former taoiseach Bertie Ahern from Mint Productions, which produced the documentary series on Charlie Haughey.

Another three-part series Cromwell in Irelandwill include battle recreations in its analysis of the impact Oliver Cromwell had on Ireland in the space of nine months in the late 17th century.

The Lourdes Hospital inquiry into the activities of obstetrician Dr Michael Neary forms the basis of Whistleblower, a two-part fictionalised drama written by Lisa McGee.

And the public's fascination with hot-headed chefs will be catered for with Raw, a new six-part drama series set in an Irish restaurant. Its cast includes Charlene McKenna of Pure Mulefame and Shelley Conn, who recently appeared as a bisexual wedding planner in Mistresses.

Síle Seoige will replace Joe O'Shea to star alongside her sister Gráinne in a new Seoigeseries, while Caroline Morahan and Pamela Flood have been replaced by Brendan Courtney and stylist Sonya Lennon for a new season of Off the Rails.

The popular Clinicdrama series will return in the autumn with US dramas such as Lost, Desperate Housewivesand Brothers and Sisters.

RTÉ has also acquired Mad Men, from the makers of The Sopranos, and 90210, a spin-off from the Beverly Hills 90210series.

Alison Healy

Alison Healy

Alison Healy is a contributor to The Irish Times