Calls for plaque to commemorate ‘very famous’ Tipperary radio station

A number of local councillors have called for a plaque to be installed to commemorate a “very famous” Tipperary radio station.

A motion seeking to commemorate CBC Radio was brought forward at the April meeting of the Clonmel Borough District.

It was proposed by the Mayor of Clonmel, Cllr Pat English, and independent councillor Riche Molloy.

It stated as follows: “That Clonmel Borough District consider installing a commemorative plaque at the West Gate in Clonmel to recognise the historic presence of CBC Radio, which operated from the building between November 14, 1981 and December 31, 1988.

“CBC Radio holds an important place in the town’s social and cultural history. It was the first community radio station in Clonmel and played a vital role in local broadcasting at a formative time for independent media in Ireland.”

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The motion was seconded by Fianna Fáil councillor Siobhán Ambrose, who mentioned that her brother was a presenter for the station.

Cllr Ambrose said the station was “a little bit before” her time but she often sees people reminiscing about it on social media.

“It was all kinds of youngsters and volunteers, all different age groups and all different types of music. It’s nice to acknowledge it,” she added.

In response to her comments, Mayor English joked that himself and Cllr Molloy were old enough to remember the station.

CBC Radio started broadcasting in the West Gate, Clonmel in November 1981 and continued until the enforced close down of all pirate stations on New Year’s Eve, 1988.

Over 100 volunteers, along with a handful of part-time and full-time staff, contributed to the station, which was popular in Clonmel, Carrick-on-Suir and surrounding towns.