Radio Nova and all of Ireland’s independent radio stations have broadcast a special address to the people of Ireland from President Michael D. Higgins.
“Sabina and I offer our deepest sympathies to those who have been bereaved in recent days and weeks as a result of the pandemic. To those of you, too, who have loved ones in intensive care or who are waiting for results of a test, we offer our solidarity,” 78 year old President Higgins said.
He also expressed deep gratitude to health care workers, GPs, pharmacists and their staff, Defence Forces, and An Garda Síochána, “all of whom are working tirelessly and selflessly to ensure the best care possible is being made available for those affected by the Coronavirus and also for the safety of all our citizens”.
The message was broadcast simultaneously on Radio Nova and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland’s 34 national, multicity, regional and local radio stations.
“Ireland is a nation built on the airwaves and in times of crisis it is to radio that people turn to get the most up to date and reliable information, for entertainment as a reprieve from the stress of our current daily lives and to hear local stories from local voices” said John Purcell, Chairman of the IBI.
“We are dealing with a global pandemic but our response to it and our recovery from it will be locally based. Every sector of society is suffering as a result of the ongoing impact of Covid-19. President Higgins has shared a message of hope, of positivity, of a resilient people and of a future that we can look forward to.”
“The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland was proud to be able to play a part in sharing the President’s message with the millions of people who tune in to independent radio every day. We hope that it will let some light into their homes, it will give them hope for the future and the strength to face the many challenges that lie ahead” said Mr Purcell.
