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Taoiseach commends WLR and other independent stations for work during Storms Ophelia and Emma

Taoiseach commends WLR and other independent stations for work during Storms Ophelia and Emma

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar publicly acknowledged the contribution of independent radio stations including WLR during the recent storms Ophelia and Emma.

At a special event in Dublin Castle, An Taoiseach shared the accolade with John Purcell and Lisa Ní Choisdealbha of the IBI on behalf of the independent radio stations.

IBI Chairman John Purcell said "For most people the storms meant a few days off work. This wasn’t the case for the staff of the 34 independent radio stations throughout the country. Radio comes into
its own in times of crises and it was to the radio that people turned to find out about road conditions, school closures, travel disruptions and weather updates. Independent radio stations
provided up to the minute local news and updates which proved invaluable to listeners."

Purcell said "radio is the first port of call when disasters strike. I would like to commend the staff of every independent radio station who despite extremely difficult conditions showed their dedication
to their audiences and kept the radio stations on the air. All of our staff can be very proud of the official recognition of their efforts from An Taoiseach".

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Staff at every local, regional and national radio station went over and above the call of duty during both Storm Ophelia and Storm Emma with each radio station's live broadcasts complemented by a
strong social media presence.

WLR Managing Director Des Whelan said "WLR staff showed huge commitment and worked tirelessly during Storm Ophelia and Emma to keep our listeners fully informed and up to date on the damage caused by the storms and to ensure listeners were fully aware of the travel conditions in their area. WLR was a central link between the emergency services and our listeners and I am very pleased that the Taoiseach has acknowledged the important part local radio played during both national emergencies".

Main Picture: Noel Browne

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