Kathryn and Grainne must wait to see who gets top job

The Herald can reveal how station bosses are currently locked in talks as they attempt to make a decision about the programme's new presenter before the official unveiling of the station's autumn schedule.

However, a Montrose insider admits that it now appears likely that no details about the national broadcaster's new reality series will be announced until September.

"At this point both Grainne and Kathryn are still in suspense as to whether or not they have the job," said the source.

"A number of high-profile personalities have been screen-tested for the job, including the two of them and to date no-one has officially been told that they have it.

"It had been hoped that the speculation would end this week when the autumn launch takes place but the latest word now is that management are planning to hold off on announcing anything until next month," they added.

Both RTE presenters were remaining tight-lipped about their involvement in the show when contacted today.

Mum-of-one Grainne had been initially expected to land the job alongside fellow media personality Brian Ormond.

But it recently emerged that Carlow presenter Kathryn Thomas had taken over as frontrunner to join the newlywed star in front of the cameras.

Those in power are said to be concerned that Galway broadcaster Grainne is too affiliated with the recently axed All Ireland Talent Show, which she presented for the past three years.

lnolan@herald.ie