Planet Zog's most famous export - Zig and Zag - may soon become the only known aliens broadcasting on Dublin's airwaves. The Irish Times has learned that Double Z - their representative on earth - is involved in a consortium planning to lodge a proposal with the Independent Radio and Television Commission (IRTC) for a radio licence in the Dublin area.
The fluffy pair were not taking any calls yesterday, but their manager, Mr Ronan McCabe, confirmed the company was currently working on a proposal, along with several undisclosed parties, to be submitted to the IRTC.
It is understood the consortium is seeking a licence to serve the 15 to 34 age group. Sources said that among the parties Double Z held discussions with was Bob Geldof, whose production company, Planet 24, produced the Big Breakfast television programme on which Zig and Zag appeared. Zig and Zag are unlikely to be kept off the airwaves if the station is licensed and their previous statements give some indication of their broadcasting style.
"My brother Zag models his career on Jeremy Paxman and I might step in for John Bowman if he's taking a week off from Questions and Answers where there is great scope for colourful ties," Zig told The Irish Times last year.
The two have said that if their RTE latenight television show, 2Phat, failed they would set up an alternative venture - Zog Cabs. Whether the new station will be called Zog FM remains unclear at this stage.
Double Z is an independent production company whose other creations include Podge & Rodge.
Up to 30 groups have already lodged proposals with the IRTC and the Double Z group is likely to face stiff opposition from other life forms like Fianna Fail Senator, Mr Donie Cassidy, who is involved in a proposal for a "country and western" radio service.
The IRTC has declined to reveal the parties who have lodged proposals so far, but is expected to do so on July 19th when the deadline for applications closes. The assessment of the applications is due to take place on September 6th, with public hearings due on September 27th. A final decision will be made in October.