Spread Across the Country: A Comprehensive Overview
Nationwide Week 21: Celebrating the Irish Rural Life and Thriving Food Industry
Monday, 26th May, presented by Anne Cassin
This week on Nationwide, we delve into the lives of expatriates who have found a new home in rural Ireland. Our team takes a journey to County Leitrim, where an American family is running a successful goat farm, and to Newport, County Tipperary, where a Spanish woman serves authentic Andalusian cuisine at her restaurant.
The Leitrim Goat Farm
In County Leitrim, we meet Lisa Gifford, an American who returned to her ancestors' land almost ten years ago to establish a goat cheese business. Now, with her daughter and daughter-in-law, they have transformed their small hillside farm into a thriving enterprise. For those nearing retirement, Lisa's dream is an inspiration. Visit her farm at www.leitrimhillcreamery.com.
A Taste of Andalusia in Newport
In the heart of County Tipperary lies Nuestra Chiquera, a restaurant run by a Spanish woman and her Irish husband. Reporter Reem El-Hassany visits this charming eatery, showcasing the rich flavors of Andalusia to local residents. If you're in the area, don't miss out on their delicious meals. Find them at www.choquera.com.
Stay tuned for additional stories in the coming days, as we explore the innovation hub of the Bia Food Innovator campus in Athenry, County Galway, and delve into the world of opera in Limerick city.
Wednesday, 28th May, presented by Anne Cassin
We visit the Bia Food Innovator campus in Athenry, a hub that supports small food businesses with expert guidance on marketing, labelling, and packaging their new food products. We follow entrepreneurs using the test kitchens and kitchen units to bring their ideas to life. Additionally, we learn about Michelin star chef Enda McEvoy's efforts to teach future generations about minimizing food waste and producing delicious cuisine.
Furthermore, we take a food tour of Galway, discovering the best local eateries and produce the city has to offer. Don't forget to visit the following establishments:
- Bia Food Innovator Campus: www.biainnovatorcampus.ie
- Galway Food Tours: www.galwayfoodtours.com
- The Dough Bros: www.thedoughbros.ie
- Nibbed Cacao: www.nibbedcacao.com
- MOBIA Food: www.mobiafood.com
Friday, 30th May, presented by Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh
This week’s Nationwide focuses on the vibrant Opera culture in Limerick city. Limerick prides itself on its Music heritage, and over the years, the Limerick Opera Festival has grown to become an essential event in the city’s calendar.
During our stay in Limerick, we encounter Shirley Keane, a local woman whose lifelong dedication is promoting Opera in Ireland, particularly in her native County Limerick, where she operates Opera Workshop. This company stages small-scale operatic productions in historic and unique venues, making opera more accessible to local audiences.
The Limerick Opera Festival, founded in 2019, brings operatic performances to locations unaccustomed to opera. This year's festival featured events in pubs, community centers, schools, and city center streets, upholding its motto - Opera for All. Tune in for a taste of Limerick's Opera delights, as reported by Marian Malone.
For more information about the upcoming Limerick Opera Festival and Opera Workshop, please visit:
- Limerick Opera Festival: www.limerickoperafestival.ie
- Opera Workshop: www.operaworkshop.ie
As always, stay connected with Nationwide for the latest in Irish news, culture, and entertainment.
- Engage in the rich lifestyle offerings of Ireland, as you explore the home-and-garden Charms of Lisa Gifford's Leitrim goat farm or delight in the food-and-drink experience at Nuestra Chiquera, serving Andalusian cuisine in Newport, County Tipperary.
- Immerse yourself in Ireland's culture during the upcoming Limerick Opera Festival, where you can enjoy opera in unique venues, showcasing the Opera Workshop's commitment to making opera accessible to all, once again demonstrating the country's thriving entertainment scene.
