Appeal for permanent home for Mayo radio station

The chairman of Community Radio Castlebar (CFCfm), Jimmy Blake, has thanked the business community for its ongoing support of the station and its programming.

Speaking at the annual general meeting, he said CRCfm is part of the fabric of the county town and is proud to be the oldest surviving community radio station in Ireland.

Mr. Blake issued an appeal to local elected representatives to help the station find a permanent home.

It is currently located in a studio at Rush Street but needs to put future plans in place in terms of copperfastening a long-term strategy.

He thanked Pat Stanton, secretary, for his support and dedication to the station which he described as 'integral'.

In regard to the station's presenters, he said they were as professional as listeners would find on any radio station, adding many were volunteers who gave freely and generous of their time week in and week out to keep CFCfm on air.

"Such input is immensely appreciated and, as well as the staff, I thank the board of directors for the support they have shown me.

"Our new manager Philip Bourke has done Trojan work since his appointment.

"Philip has brought his experience from his time on Redfm in Cork and his input has been significant in terms of organisation, efficiency and programming."

He extended best wishes to former board chairman, Jackie Loftus, wishing him good health in his retirement and thanking him for his great contribution to the station over many years.

The election of officers resulted in Mr. Blake being re-elected chairman with Mr. Stanton as board secretary and Mr. Bourke as company secretary.