TV3 unveiled its autumn schedule today which includes the Irish version of The Apprentice, the station's first original drama School Runand a news-led talk show entitled Midday.
A new documentary series Now & Then: How The Irish Have Sexwill involve frank discussions with people of all ages about their sex lives.
The station's chief executive David McRedmond said this was TV3's biggest and best autumn season ever as it included 19 new series and specials.
The schedule also includes returning shows such as Nightly News with Vincent Browne, Xposéand The Political Party.
TV3 director of programming Ben Frow said The Apprenticewas "probably the most anticipated programme in our autumn schedule". The 14 candidates will face businessman Bill Cullen, his partner Jackie Lavin and entrepreneur Brian Purcell as they compete for a contract with Mr Cullen. The series will begin in late September.
Mr Frow said the station was providing programmes that were "a real alternative to the opposition, that represent real people, and real experiences and hold a mirror up to contemporary Ireland".
TV3's new Middayprogramme will be hosted by Alan Cantwell, Colette Fitzpatrick and Martin King who will retain their current roles as news anchors and weather presenters.
Sports coverage will include the Uefa Super Cup, the Uefa Cup, Champions League matches and ten All-Ireland football and hurling championship.
Mr McRedmond said the station hoped to get Competition Authority approval for its acquisition of Channel 6 in the next week which would turn TV3 into a multi-channel station. It will also launch a new website in October.
