Local Baha'i community to hold inflation-busting workshops
The event is in response to the ever-rising cost-of-living.
Members of the Baha'i community in County Derry are to hold a conference this weekend advising the public on how to cope with the rising cost of living.
The event, entitled 'How to Survive Rapid Inflation' will be held at the Ballyronan Community Hall on Saturday March 26 from 10.00am until 7.00pm.
With food and fuel prices continuing to increase, organiser Leslie Gornall said there was an urgent need for people to take steps to mitigate the effects.
“The price of gas and electricity is increasing at a rate we have not seen since the 1970s,” he said.
“The Power of Serbia No 1 pipeline has already removed most of gas from the spot market which is where the UK buys most of its gas. The UK has almost no gas storage.
“The price consequence has been dramatic. From a decade-long base price of around £0.50 a Therm, the price shot up £2.00 a Therm, a 400% increase in wholesale gas prices.
"The impact on most peoples household budgets will be choices along the lines of heat or eat, a situation we have not seen since the last world war.
“Yet we believe that the skills that were learned by our grandparents, plus new technologies and knowledge, can be used to support families and mitigate the impact of these frightening energy costs.
“If we work together, share and care, the quality of life for everyone can be improved, even enhanced. By working together we can de-couple quality of life and energy consumption.
“An example of this is in a solar powered house the fuel bill is insignificant and can be used for other family needs, for education or for even a camper van for local holidays.”
The event will include a number of workshops looking at sustainable ways of generating food, tips on conserving energy, strategies for maintaining good mental health and travel advice.
A number of guest speakers will be present on the day to share their expertise, alongside some music and entertainment.
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Cllr Paul McLean, is also set to address the conference on the day.
“The Baha’is, though few in number have many friends and have been able to gather a wide range of people in the area with skills relevant to the task of surviving rapid inflation,” added Leslie.
For more information on the conference, visit the Baha'i Community Magherafelt Facebook page or contact Leslie Gornall on 028 7963 2615.