On today’s edition of the programme, Máire spoke with President Elect of the Irish Farmers Association – Eddie Downey in relation to today’s positive news on our agri sector. According to the latest figures from Bord Bia, the value of Irish food and drink exports rose to almost 10 billion euro last year – highlighting just how important our agri food sector is for the country. Exports are up 9% on 2012 – and 40% since 2009. Export values for dairy products and ingredients exceeded 3 billion euro for the first time – with meat and livestock accounting for 3.3 billion and prepared foods 1.6 billion. Exports to China grew by over 40% – while other key markets including Germany, France and the Netherlands all recorded double digit growth.
As we come round from the festive season and take stock of what presents we were given – we may need to exchange or return items…so what are our consumer rights when it comes to refunds, exchanges or faults? Feargal O’Leary, Director of Research and Policy at the National Consumer Agency joined Máire on the show to advise listeners of their consumer rights. For further details please visit www.consumerhelp.ie
Aidan Courtney from The Ennis Book Shop was in studio to talk books. Today it was the battle of the bulge with those behind Operation Transformation – Aidan reviewed two new titles for January – Karl Henry’s The Slim Solution and Dr. Eva Orsmonde’s 10 Pound Diet.
Ann Norton from Clare Crusaders and Willie Healy from Body & Mind Fitness in Ennis were also guests of the show today. Get Fit with The Clare Crusaders is a new book produced by the local charity, which features tips and advice on living a healthy life, good nutrition and practical exercise. The book is on sale at the Clinic in Barefield and at Lynch’s Centra on the Gort Road in Ennis – It’s €10 and all proceeds go directly to the Clare Crusaders. Willie has contributed to the book and focuses on nutrition and gave us some tips and advice on how to ease into getting fit for the New Year.
While John Sweeney from the Clare Sports Partnership let listeners know about a free 8 week series of walks, which will begin tonight as part of Operation Transformation in Ennis. Participants are asked to meet at St. Flannan’s at 7pm tonight for a 3k walk or jog (and optional weigh in) – in a bid to help people get out and active and meet people at the same time. It’s also on Saturday’s with a 5k walk or jog at Lee’s Road in Ennis – beginning at 9.30am. Check out www.claresportspartnership.ie for more information.
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