Documenting awkward encounters to perfect matches, First Dates Ireland has captured the hearts of viewers across the country.

With the second season of the show currently airing on RTÉ2, we caught up with Wicklow farmer George Beattie, who appeared on a recent episode of the show, to find out what really happens behinds the scenes.

What possessed you to apply to First Dates Ireland?

I thought it would be a bit of fun. Life can be a bit mundane, and it broke up the week!

What did the application process involve?

I filled out an application form online, just for the craic, really. They rang me around 20 minutes later and asked me to send in a three-minute Q&A clip, which was filmed by a friend. I then went to Dublin to film a longer segment with a camera crew. These are clips in the part of the show where people are wearing different clothes.

This went on for an hour, and they basically asked what I was looking for. I forgot much of what I said. You’re not even guaranteed a date at this stage, but they try to get a good sense of who you are.

Does the production company (CoCo Television) make an effort to match people?

They are actually really invested in the whole thing and take match-making quite seriously.

I was really into student politics in college and have an interest in current affairs, and that was a huge crossover between me and my date, Amanda.

How did the date go?

A lot of it is condensed – they only really show 15 minutes on camera, when we were on the date for two or three hours. The only thing they told us not to talk about was the application process, even though it’s the only thing you have in common. I had three dates with Amanda (his date) after the show.

Were you aware of the cameras?

Cameras are hidden. You see an oddly shaped box, and that’s it. They aren’t stuck in your face.

Once you settle into the date, you forget about them and focus on that rather than being filmed.

You are more nervous about meeting the person, to be honest!

At the end, you have to go in front of the camera together to discuss the date and whether you will meet again.

It’s the hardest part, and it’s awkward, because you have to gauge how the date went and possibly deal with rejection in front of a camera.

Do you actually have to pay for the dinner?

You have to pay. They give you a contribution, which is minimal. It’s a social experiment – you have to act the same way you would on a normal date.

Would you recommend it?

Absolutely, it’s been a great experience.

You do need to have thick skin, though – everyone has an opinion. Avoid Twitter! Luckily, I love slagging and I was doing the show for banter with the lads at home.

The main thing is, it’s done in good taste and the production company takes it seriously.

They could edit it to make people look stupid or make bad matches for entertainment.

Visit cocotelevision.ie to apply online.