RECESSION BUSTING

As the economy tightens its belt we all have to make some changes to the way we live. The best way to get through the recession is to manage and clear your debts and cut your costs.

Managing Your Debts

MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting services) is funded by the Government and is a free, confidential, independent and non-profit making service for people in debt or at risk of getting into debt. The service can also help low-income families develop the knowledge and skills they need to avoid getting into debt and deal with situations as they arise. MABS also identifies sources of credit that best meets people’s needs and helps them access these sources. There are four important steps that MABS uses to help people get to grips with their finances:

1.Assessing the situation,

2.Working on your budget,

3.Dealing with debts and

4. Managing payments.MABS also provides information and advice through their website http://www.mabs.ie/ or you can call the MABS help line on: 1890 283438

Cutting Your Costs

There are two main ways to cut your costs:

1) Buy things cheaper

2) Don’t buy things at all

It can be worth keeping a spending diary to see exactly where your money goes and see where you can cut costs.

· Do you need that item or do you want it?

· Can you bring a sandwich with you instead of buying lunch out?

Check out other providers for your household services to cut down monthly bills.

Check reduced to clear rails and shelves in the shops.

Use the library

Swap services with friends and family (I’ll cut your grass if you baby-sit for me on Saturday night).

Get into green living; darn and mend, switch off light bulbs, use up leftovers, grow your own veggies, use energy saving bulbs etc

Bargains
You can also take advantage of the good side of a recession. “There’s a good side to a recession!" we hear you exclaim suspiciously. Actually there is, namely that there will be bargains to be had.

As consumers become more hesitant to spend, many shops and businesses are finding it harder to survive. This means you can find some great deals locally on needed necessities and services. Check these out….

Jeffrey McLaughlin, Optician

Jeffrey McLaughlin is offering free eye tests and glasses for approved medical card holders and PRSI payers (terms and conditions apply). He also has great deals on designer specs like 2 pairs of fcukTM glasses for €199. You will find Jeffrey McLaughlin optician shops in Chapel Street Carndonagh and Lower Main Street Buncrana.

Inishowen Blinds

Inishowen Blinds are offering 25% off selected vertical and roller blinds. With free estimates, free fittings and a five-year guarantee, getting your quality blinds could be cheaper than you think. With the daylight saving coming in at the end of the month, blinds can help keep the light out when you want the children to spend an extra hour in bed. Inishowen Blinds are in Milltown Business Park, Buncrana and you can call them on 074 9361708 or 0862231817

A & N Fuels

With a budget looming in April and a possible hike on fuel prices it makes sense to fill up now.
A & N Fuels have the cheapest fuel in Ireland (as seen in the News of the World). We all need to keep warm and making our money go further is especially important these days. To keep your heating and diesel costs low call the A & N Fuels hot line on 07493 61542 / 20795.
The fuel isn’t just cheap. A & N Fuels have a reputation for providing top quality fuels, great service and they also guarantee next day delivery if you call them before 4pm.
Locally based, why not call in to their depot in Aghilly Buncrana to see their comprehensive range of oil tanks, coal-bunkers, emergency oil drums (20litres), wood pellets, coal, lube oils, greases, tank gauges. While you are there you can fill up with diesel.
A & N Fuels, providing best value, top quality and quick delivery. Keeping you and your family warm for less.

Caratra Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse Culdaff

Caratra Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse Culdaff is just recently under new management with Brian & Loretta Bonner. They are currently promoting excellent home cooked meals using fresh local produce ensuring that eating out has never been more affordable. With a complimentary bottle of wine with your 3 course meal for only €30 per couple, the Thursday special is a real recession buster. The couple want to bring the value back to eating out in a warm cosy, friendly environment where you can get value for money & your custom is really appreciated. As if that wasn’t enough they are also offering a local radius curtsey car to drop you home so you can leave the car behind & have a few drinks with your meal. With wonderful surroundings and a relaxed pleasant atmosphere it is also the perfect venue choice for birthday parties, family gatherings, communion & confirmation outings. So whether you want great value food at affordable prices or just a good pint by a snug open fire why not come along to Caratra where your money goes further!!!

Building and Joinery Work
There are plenty of bargains to be had for building and joinery work. If you are considering an extension, like a garage, sunroom or conservatory then give Damien McLaughlin a call on 0749134852 or 0044 7714300034. Damien has slashed his prices offering low, low rates. His prices may be low, but he does a great job. So for unbeatable value and top quality building and joinery work throughout Inishowen and the North West, give Damien a call.

Plant Hire
Hiring out plant equipment can keep costs down especially when the prices are competitive. If you need a JCB Fastrac with loader and dump trailers or 120 Hitachi call Damien McLaughlin on 0749134852 or 0044 7714300034.

Mangan Tours
For a coach holiday that you can afford and you will remember, Mangan Tours provide great value for money. They have a tour for every-one from the Highlights of Holland, to the London and Chelsea Flower Show, From Lake Garda to Alton Towers and Cadbury World, from the Festival of Quilts to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher.

O’Donnells Premier Meats
O’Donnells Premier Meats in Buncrana always provide excellent meat at good prices. For a credit crunching recession busting deal check out their week planner meat pack which will satisfy the whole family. For €22 you can get one large chicken, 4 pork chops, 500g of steak pieces, 500g of pork pieces, 500g of minced steak and eight pork sausages. Now that’s a bargain.