Mayo community radio station looking forward to the future with optimism

Community Radio Castlebar (CRCfm) is in a viable state and can look to the future with optimism, the annual general meeting of the organisation was told.

Pat Stanton, chairman, said last year was a difficult one for the station given the situation regarding Covid-19 which understandably led to a decrease in trading income and a reduction in fundraising and donations.

However, the station was fortunate in securing a €40,000 stability grant from Pobal in September which allowed the station to move forward.

A complete review of the accounts was undertaken and a new accounts administrator was appointed while income was generated to help contribute to sustaining operations.

Stated Mr. Stanton: “The station's finances are now in a viable state. We are confident that as the economy opens up there will be opportunities, particularly in regard to new advertising.

“It’s unlikely that government grant aid will be continued at the same level so therefore we need to have alternative sources of funding.

“In addition to the support from POBAL we also acquired funding from the BAI with the award of €35,613.

“There are also a number of Sound and Vision Projects for which grants have been given and these have yet to be finalised.

“In regard to day to day operations considerable effort has been delivered by the management and staff to maintain the radio service and I commend them for their cooperation, particularly when dealing with Covid restrictions.

“Even though some elements of programming had to be curtailed, broadcasting continued as close to schedule as possible.”

He continued: “I extend thanks to the management, staff and all our volunteers for their patience, cooperation and perseverance throughout what has been a difficult year.

“I also thank the board of directors for their support and all the various businesses and organisations who continue to support community radio for Castlebar.”