RTÉ, or Raidió Teilifís Éireann, launched its maiden national television service on the final day of 1961, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of media in Ireland. Before this launch, national broadcasting was chiefly limited to radio, operated by RTÉ since 1926. The establishment of television service was fueled by a growing need for a more modern means of communication and information dissemination as the global television trend surged in the post-war era. The initiative was led by influential figures within RTÉ who recognized the potential of television to foster national unity and promote Irish culture amidst a rapidly modernizing world.

The inaugural broadcast was significant not only for its content but also for its timing, coinciding with a period of burgeoning national pride and identity in Ireland. The launch encompassed a variety of programming including news bulletins, cultural shows, and entertainment, catering to a broad audience. The service initially faced challenges such as limited infrastructure, but as technology advanced and resources increased, RTÉ's television service began to flourish, eventually leading to a rich variety of programming that captivated viewers across the nation.

RTÉ’s entry into television opened channels for creative expression and participation in public discourse. This included a platform for local talent and storytelling that highlighted the diverse tapestry of Irish society. As a result, television became a vehicle for social change, education, and the promotion of Irish language and culture. The advent of national television fundamentally altered the viewing habits of the Irish public and laid the groundwork for further developments in the media landscape, including the rise of independent broadcasters and the eventual technological advances leading towards digital broadcasting.