The AA Roadwatch broadcasts service is to end today after almost 32 years, writes Brian Byrne. The company says it has taken the decision as it looks to commence its next phase of growth.
"We will focus our efforts on other areas of motoring advice and editorial," says Don Brennan, Managing Director of AA Insurance, "to add a richer experience to our existing and future customers and members and become the primary source for motoring information."
Noting that new GPS technologies and traffic information sources means a 'wealth of detail' is available to motorists from various sources, Mr Brennan said the Automobile Association will still offer travel information, route planners, emergency advice, and reporting via its AA Ireland website and AA App.
The service launched the careers of many well-known broadcasters and presenters, including Lorraine Keane, Louise Duffy, Doireann Garrihy, Nuala Carey and Louise Heraghty. The AA’s Conor Faughnan, who was one of the first voices to be heard on the AA Roadwatch reports, along with Lorraine Keane and the service was helped in the early years by the “Eye in the Sky” – with information from a Robinson 22 helicopter over Dublin City from Bob Conway.
