In a statement, released yesterday afternoon, the state broadcaster confirmed that RTÉ2 is looking at a number of new comedy and entertainment series' for the channel to broadcast later.

The show was seen as a launchpad for a number of major Irish comedy acts and resulted in breakaway series for Damo & Ivor, Bridget and Eamon and The Rubberbandits.

Adrian Lynch, Channel Controller RTÉ One and RTÉ 2 said: "We want to thank host Kevin McGahern and all the hosts and teams involved in making the show over the last eight years. Republic of Telly has been a brilliant vehicle for developing talent both on and off-screen, from Damo & Ivor to Bridget and Eamon and The Rubberbandits, and broke the mould in how it engaged with viewers and brought Irish comedy acts to a wider audience."

Relive one of their finest sketches, 'You Know You're Irish When':