RTÉ Network 2 will be known as RTÉ Two from this Saturday, 2 October.
In the first part of a three-phase process, a new look and sound for the channel; new programmes, programming strands and acquired programmes will greet viewers from Saturday.
RTÉ Two's first day on air will be marked by a theme night, 'Podge and Rodge Unleashed on Two', beginning at 8pm, when the bachelor brothers cast a sarcastic eye over RTÉ Network 2.
First up is 'The Premiership', which will be followed by a specially-commissioned documentary bidding 'Farewell to Network 2'.
Also featuring will be the television premiere of 'Stew' - a brand new sketch show series commissioned for the channel, script-edited by Arthur Matthews of Fr Ted fame.
The network premiere of 'Spin the Bottle' will be preceded by the last episode of the critically-acclaimed series, 'Paths to Freedom' and interlaced throughout will be observations on proceedings from Podge and Rodge.
This first phase will be built upon in phase two, in January 2005 and phase three, in Autumn 2005, when further commissioning rounds deliver more new programming.
Noel Curran, Managing Director of RTÉ Television said: "RTÉ Two will be a multi-genre channel, delivering a comprehensive package of home-produced drama, entertainment and factual programming, sport and first-run acquired material."
"There will be a sustained, increased investment in new Irish programming on the channel over the coming years. It will also showcase the best international series available."
