€1k a week rent in Sligo

Madam Editor,

Recent reports in the media have highlighted the high commercial property vacancy rate in Sligo.

If there is a surplus of something, its price should fall. Yet some commercial rents seem out of line with the level of business in the town. A restaurant on O’Connell street pays €57,000 pa, or nearly €1,100 per week.

Given that many people’s finances are still recovering from the severe crises of 2008-2012, and given that wage growth has been very low, this rent seems excessive.

Both online and cross-border shopping are further challenges facing retailers, especially with Brexit and the weaker pound sterling. Landlords expectations need to adjust to this changed reality.

Yours faithfully, Stephen McNena Economics Lecturer (NUI Galway) based at St. Angela’s College Lough Gill, Sligo Madam Editor,

I’ve been suffering from depression this year so I wanted to give something back to the charity that have helped me through this tough time.

Depression is such an isolating illness. It’s also frightening. There are times when you don’t know where you are going and what you are doing. I wanted to help others who may be suffering out there so I’m having a coffee morning to fundraise for Havin’ a Laugh and Rennafix. It’s at The Blind Tiger in Sligo on Monday, September 25 th from 10am – 12 noon. All are very welcome.

I’m hoping this might be the start of something and that it might end up as a regular coffee morning. I miss the days where I had friends I could go for a coffee and a chat with. I’m sure I’m not alone in this. So if you feel isolated, lonely or are just new to the area or want to make new friends do come along. If you can’t make the coffee morning but would like to donate you can do so here.

https://magnumlady. com/2017/09/11/havin-a-coffee-for-havin-a-laugh/

Yours faithfully,

Val Robus http://magnumlady.com