NATIONWIDE WEEK 47
MONDAY 24TH NOVEMBER
PRESENTER ANNE CASSIN
THE WOOL SECTOR IN IRELAND – PROGRAMME 1
In the first of three programmes this evening, Nationwide explores Ireland's wool sector – delving into its rich heritage, current challenges, and possibilities for its future. The team looks at new initiatives that are breathing life into the industry, while also reflecting on the history and traditions that have shaped it and supported generations of sheep-farming families.
Presenter Anne Cassin meets sheep farmer Blátnaid Gallagher, owner of Murray Meadows in County Galway, an organic farm which pioneers farm diversification. Anne hears Blátnaid’s story and learns how she helped establish the Galway Wool Producers Co-op. Anne also speaks with Dr Tim Yeomans, who leads The Springwool Project, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This project aims to remove barriers to innovation, develop sustainable new uses for Irish fleece, and ultimately deliver better returns for wool producers.
Website: www.irishgrownwoolcouncil.com
Website: www.galwaywool.ie
WEDNESDAY 26TH NOVEMBER
PRESENTER BLÁTHNAID NÍ CHOFAIGH
THE WOOL SECTOR IN IRELAND – PROGRAMME 2
On tonight’s programme, Nationwide continues its exploration of Ireland’s wool sector, highlighting innovative new uses for wool - from rope making to compost production.
Presenter Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh visits Éiru Farm in County Wicklow to meet Zoe and Lionel, a couple leading a campaign to breathe new life into the Irish wool industry. They produce garments made from 100% Irish wool. Bláthnaid also meets scientist Peter Downey, who, along with other researchers across Ireland, is discovering creative ways to add value to Irish wool, including transforming it into a key ingredient for compost.
Also on the show, reporter John Kilraine travels to Rathlin Island, off the coast of County Antrim, to meet a research team using wool to create biodegradable rope for use in seaweed farming.
Finally, the programme features the story of an Irish designer based in New York who has identified yet another promising use for Irish wool, developing and selling a range of high-quality Irish wool rugs. Reporter Niall Martin brings us that story.
Website: www.eriufarm.ie
Website: www.donegalyarns.com
FRIDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
PRESENTER ANNE CASSIN
THE WOOL SECTOR IN IRELAND – PROGRAMME 3
In the third and final episode of Nationwide’s series on Ireland’s wool sector, this evening’s programme focuses on some of the small industries that owe their existence to the wool produced on Irish farms over the years. Nationwide hears how these businesses have diversified and expanded, and while many now use a range of Irish and imported fabrics, they have continued to trade successfully, sustaining employment in rural communities across Ireland.
Many of the old Mills that survived have done so by using Irish wool, alongside imported merino wool, and by working with high end designers. One such mill is Cushendale Woollen Mills in County Kilkenny, where six generations of the same family have been crafting blankets. Reporter Niall Martin recently visited the team there.
Website: www.cushendale.ie
