RTÉ will premiere a range of new documentaries on television for the first time this August, sharing uniquely Irish stories, examining the challenges faced by our communities and paying tribute to our vibrant culture.
These five documentaries from Irish production companies are part of RTÉ's on-going commitment to Irish documentaries - see what's coming up here.
Around My Island
In Around My Island, Irish solo sailor Tom Dolan endeavours to be the fastest person to sail single-handed around the island of Ireland. Narrated by Bryan Dobson, this documentary joins Tom on board to follow his attempt at making history and explore the childhood trauma that motivated him to chase success, in sport and in life.
Airing on Tuesday 6 August at 9.35pm on RTÉ One.
The Cable that Changed the World
The Cable that Changed the World explores the story of the first transatlantic communications cable to traverse the ocean floor, from Valentia Island, County Kerry, to Newfoundland, Canada, 165 years ago. Narrated by Hollywood star and Kerry native Jessie Buckley, the documentary features historical reconstructions and rarely seen archive footage, providing an insight into the eight-year journey of those who successfully connected North America and Europe for the first time.
Airing on Monday 12 August at 9.35pm on RTÉ One.
Making
Honouring our talented craft makers, Making documents the annual gathering of makers each September at the Joseph Walsh Studio, which encompasses a workshop, gallery, design studio, and archive set around an 18th-century farmhouse in the countryside of Fartha, County Cork. Art, craft, design and technical innovation are celebrated in expressive pieces that the studio crafts.
Airing on Wednesday 14 August at 10.35pm on RTÉ One.
Stolen
Remembering our not-so-distant past, Stolen tells the story of how women who became pregnant "out of wedlock" were treated in an Ireland dominated by the Catholic Church. Between 1922 and 1998, over 80,000 unmarried mothers were incarcerated in church-run mother and baby homes. Survivors reveal the shocking details of their treatment in a scandal that sparked a government inquiry into their fate.
Airing on Monday 26 August at 9.35pm on RTÉ One.
Mincéir
Mincéir addresses the challenges faced by Travellers and advocates for their rights, health and better living conditions. It introduces audiences to the Cant language, shares authentic stories and explores the Traveller community's significant impact on Irish history.
Airing on Tuesday 27 August at 9:35pm on RTÉ One.
All five documentaries will join a growing library on RTÉ Player, including the recent Bishop Casey’s Buried Secrets, which has had over 100,000 streams to date.
More documentaries will be announced as part of RTÉ’s new season launch later this month.
