Fergal O’Leary is the Director of Research and Policy at the National Consumer Agency and joined Máire Moynahan on today’s Afternoon Show as new research shows that almost half (48%) of consumers have lost out by letting gift cards or vouchers expire according to new research, conducted on behalf of the National Consumer Agency. In a nationally representative survey of over 1,000 people, the huge popularity of giving gift vouchers is apparent with 81% of shoppers confirming that they have bought gift vouchers as Christmas presents in the past. The popularity of gift vouchers is set to continue with more than half of consumers (51%) planning on buying gift vouchers this Christmas. Those who intend to buy them this year say that they will spend an average of €174. The NCA says those who receive gift cards or vouchers for Christmas should check the conditions of use and says its important to check the small print.
Paul Calso Callaghan, our resident Chef, Food Blogger and Author answered all of your cooking and baking questions. Check out Calso’s blog for further tips, advice and recipes on www.thesustainablelarder.blogspot.com If you have a cookery question, particularly in relation to Christmas fare please email to afternoon@clare.fm
Laura Mulcahy, local Drama Teacher, Playwright and Director was in studio to tell us about local theatre events. Brandon’s Upstairs Presents ‘Christmas Theatre and Merrymaking’ – Seasonal Theatrical Extravaganza 2013 which includes Smithereens Puppet Company’s "The Tragical Comedie of Mr. Punch", tonight, December 5th @ 7pm. Also Dha Lamh Theatre presents "Chickens of Doom – A Seasonal Tale of Goodwill and Merriment" (written and directed by Laura) on Friday December 6th and 12th @ 7pm Tickets. While Smithereens Puppet Company presents "The Story of Saint Nicholas" on Friday December 13th @ 7pm. The cast and crew is made up of local people from the town of Ennis and its environs. The cast and crew come from all walks of life: perfectly able, differently able, mature, young. This project aims to bring people together through an appreciation of theatre arts. No more, no less! Tickets available on the door on the evening of the respective performances
Catriona Lowry was also on the show today and reviewed Free Birds – a brand new cartoon movie featuring the voice of Owen Wilson and also Saving Mr. Banks with Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks.
Eleanor McSherry joined the show from Limerick to discuss the Richard Harris Film Festival. The inaugural festival, an official Gathering event, will take place in Limerick City from tomorrow until Sunday. Harris spent much of the summers of his youth in Kilkee. Check out www.richardharrisfilmfestival.com for more info or else limetreetheatre.ie
To contact the show please email afternoon@clare.fm
