RTE television has revealed plans for a range of positive new programmes which aim to cheer people up during the recession.

In a 'Call For Ideas' document issued by RTE Factual the national broadcaster has told independent producers: "There's a need for antidotes to the doom and gloom. These (programme submissions) need have no connection in subject matter with the current turmoil but should be well-defined, entertaining factual offerings that will brighten and refresh the schedule."

Station bosses say these new good news programmes should be in the spirit of existing hits like The Family Silver, Chain Reactions, Who Do You Think You Are? and In The Name Of The Fada.

However the station is not sticking its head in the sand and wants to tackle the recession head on with a call for independent producers to come up with superman type presenters with the talent to save or turn around flagging businesses.

"We're very interested in personality-driven projects that deal with business, enterprise, and job creation. We want key talent with real expertise and authority and/or high national or international profile to get to grips with the challenge of turning back the economic tide. Can an iconic Irish business or brand be turned around, a workplace saved, an export opportunity secured through the help of strong presenter talent? Imagination will be key here," the document asks.

RTE already has a number of TV programmes in production "examining how Ireland's boom came to an end and how the global turmoil may eventually play out". The majority of the new programmes will air in peak slots during 2010 with a small number fast-tracked to air in 2009.

The call for new fresh programming is the first initiative undertaken by new director of programmes, Steve Carson.