Summer Camp Survey... Planning for pandemic-era summer activities - LIFESTYLE - Consumers' Association of Ireland
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
www.thecai.ie
MAY 2021
Summer Camp Survey...
Planning for pandemic-era summer activities
MONEY LIFESTYLE PRODUCT TESTS
CREDIT UNION LOANS SUMMER CAMPS COOKER HOODS
CARD FRAUD HEALTH RESOLUTIONS ROBOT LAWNMOWERS
www.thecai.ie
The May 2021
Consumers'
Association of CAI Council Election Notice
Ireland The Council is the CAI’s policy-making body and is elected by the members. As members you will be aware of the tremendous
contribution made by Council over the years through its lobbying activities and representations on your behalf and on behalf of all Irish
The Council is the consumers.
policy-making body
of CAI. Members are We urge members who have been subscribing for at least a year and who believe that they could bring a high degree of expertise and
elected from within experience to the work of the Council to put themselves forward for election.
the CAI's membership
at the Annual General Please forward by post only, and in the strictest confidence, to arrive no later than 5.00pm on Friday, 25th June 2021:
Meeting.
• Name, address, telephone number and email address
Council • Subscription number
Members • A 150-word CV on your areas of interest and expertise
• Your occupation and all other representative details – necessary to ensure no conflict of interest
Chairperson • A recent passport-size photograph
Michael Kilcoyne
Vice-Chairperson Please send these addressed to:
Raymond O'Rourke
Hon Secretary Dermott Jewell,
Elaine Bolger
Policy & Council Advisor,
Hon Treasurer
Consumers’ Association of Ireland,
Richard Donohue
Denshaw House,
Council Members
Steen Bruun-Nielsen 120/121 Baggot Street Lower,
James Wims Dublin 2.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Michael Kilcoyne
Chairperson
Our Reports Consumer Choice Published Material
Reports in Consumer Choice are based on Consumer Choice is published by No part of this publication may be reproduced,
market research, laboratory tests or user the Consumers' Association of Ireland stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in
surveys, all of which are independently and (CAI) Limited, a wholly independent, non- any form without obtaining prior permission
scientifically conducted. Free goods are government, non-profit making body. CAI from the Council by contacting the Consumer
never accepted for testing – all samples was founded in 1966 to protect and promote Choice office. It may not be used for any form of
are purchased. Occasionally items may be the interests of the consumers of goods and advertising, sales promotion or publicity.
borrowed for review purposes only. services, and to enhance the quality of life for
The reports are produced in the main consumers. CAI is registered with charitable © Consumers’ Association of Ireland 2021
by our own Editorial staff. Some material status: CHY 8559. ISSN 0790-486X
is occasionally drawn from other foreign Advertising is not accepted for publication.
independent consumer magazines. Consumer Choice is available on a subscription
Because Consumer Choice carries no basis only. To facilitate banking requirements Staff
commercial advertising it is not swayed by all cancellations must be advised, by letter or Policy and Council Advisor
bias or influence and can point out advantages email only, a full 30 days in advance. Where Dermott Jewell
and flaws in goods and services that other a bank applies a €24 chargeback fee for a
Member/customer advised cancellation we Design/Typeset
magazines may not be able to do.
will deduct same from any refund requests. To
Reports on any article relate only to the Denzil Lacey (Zava Media)
subscribe please write to:
articles or goods mentioned, and not to any
Consumer Choice,
other article of the same or similar description.
120/121 Baggot Street Lower,
Managing Editor
We do not necessarily price or report on all Clodagh O'Donoghue
Dublin 2
brands or models within the class, and the
exclusion of any brand or model should not be Researchers
Tel (01) 659 9430
taken as a reflection on it. Róisín Moloney Weekes
Email cai@thecai.ie
www.thecai.ie Atousa Motameni
Will Andronico Jr.
Social Media:
1 www.thecai.ie May 2021
Contents www.twitter.com/The_CAI
www.facebook.com/
ConsumersAssociationIreland
17 Lending Support…Credit Union Loans
20 Robot Lawnmowers
MONEY LIFESTYLE PRODUCT TESTS
6 Money News 10 Adjusting to ‘The New 20 Robot Lawnmowers
The latest developments in Normal’ For those who love their lawn but
money matters, including What lockdown habits will be ben- hate the maintenance that comes
the rise in online debit and eficial moving forward and which with it, a robot lawnmower could
credit card fraud and upcom- ones should we leave behind? be the ideal solution.
ing changes to the electric
vehicles grant scheme.
13 Summer Camp Survey 24 Cooker Hoods
17 Lending Support… Four Choice Buy models will keep
Credit Union Loans What will summer 2021 bring in your kitchen free of smells, steam
Consumer Choice considers terms of camps and courses for and airborne grease.
what credit unions can offer children and teenagers? Consumer
in terms of personal loans for Choice looks at the plans in place
expected and unexpected for running pandemic-era summer
expenses. activities.
10 Adjusting to 'The New
Normal' 24 Cooker Hoods
2 www.thecai.ie May 2021
News Briefs by Dermott Jewell
NEWS BRIEFS
Balancing the Tip Enrappertured
You may need to read this a couple of times for it to sink in. In recent
The already popular and now expanding Camile Thai Kitchen (CTK),
weeks, a pair of Nike Air Yeezy 1’s, worn by US rapper Kanye West, sold
having recently announced its strategy to invest €10 million in technol-
at auction at Sotheby’s for $1.8 million (€1.5 million). This represented
ogy focussed future planning, has now entered a partnership with a
a sale price that was triple the previous record for runners, set in
Dublin tech company, Strike, to facilitate contactless tipping. How will August 2020 when a pair of Nike Air Jordan 1’s were sold for $615,000
this work? Well, the plan is that the consumer can tap their phone, (€508,000) at a Christie's auction. This has become a niche market at-
on a tag or scan a QR code on their receipt that will instantly add a tracting interest, not just from specialist collectors but also the general
tip for the delivery person. The system will operate through Apple public. This is accomplished through an established market trading
Pay or Google Pay. Up until now, paying in any way other than cash, platform known as RARES and based in Las Vegas, Nevada. This is a
tipping has not been a feature of the delivery process. This is a notable site through which individuals can buy shares and invest in these rare
consideration in light of the fact that so many restaurants moved prototype shoes. It is expected that shares in this particular pair will be
sold on the platform from June and cost between $15 (€12.50) and $20
their business to online ordering and delivery or collection with little
(€16.50) per share. In each case, the shoes were made as what is de-
personal engagement of any kind. Tipping has always been an issue
scribed as collaboration between Nike and the individuals involved in
for discussion and varying opinions range from a scale of passionate
terms of specific design and other features. In this case, the shoes were
support to vehement dislike of the idea. CTK was founded by Brody worn, and are verifiable as such through videos of his performances, by
Sweeney, who is remembered by most Irish consumers for his previous West during the Grammy Awards in 2008. The prototype pair did not
creation, O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bars. This system was trialled in Dublin go on public sale until April 2009. Most Air Yeezy 1’s sell for between
and will now be a part of the restaurant’s offering across all branches $2,000 (€1,650) and $4,000 (€3,300), depending on the model and
nationwide. It is reportedly proving popular with both customers and, revenue generated by the company, in 2020, was recently reported by
unsurprisingly, drivers. Bloomberg to be $1.7 billion (€1.4 billion).
CERTAINLY ALMOST NEARLY ASSURED
With all eyes and minds focussed on a return to life as we knew it, the European Parliament has
agreed its position on how a Covid certificate should work in order to open up travel within the
EU. The intention is to have a certificate, available from June, showing detail of the holder’s
vaccination status, Covid test results and/or evidence of having survived infection. Of course,
details remain to be finalised and this even falls to the name under which the certificate will
be known! MEPs are unhappy with the Commission’s proposal for a ‘Digital Green Certificate’
and would prefer the ‘EU Covid-19 Certificate’ and which I would agree with, as it is specific and
defined for its single use. Notably, and in context, MEPs require that it should be valid only for
12 months and, importantly, should not become a precondition to exercise what is the right to
free movement. In addition, while Parliament wants to see Covid-19 tests to be provided free
of charge, the Commission considers that that element should be left to the Member State to
decide. However, it is notable that there are issues yet to be resolved, such as the Member State
requirement to retain the right and ability to override the certificate and impose quarantine,
testing and other requirements if they deem it essential and pointing out that public health
issues are their responsibility. It is understood that the EU intends to accept certificates issued
by non-EU countries for travel by their citizens, including, for example, the US. While there is
a trial planned for May on this, by no means is it a done deal and, realistically, travel planning
should remain on hold!
May 2021 www.thecai.ie 3
www.thecai.ie May 2021
Feathering His Nest, Tra La
A search of a passenger arriving from Guyana into New York's $3,000 (€2,486). A US Fish and Wildlife Service agent outlined
JFK Airport produced 35 live finches fitted into and around the how finches from Guyana were in particularly high demand due
man's jacket and ankles. A closer inspection discovered a dozen to their superior singing abilities. Each year, in the New York
small containers that were, in actual fact, hair curlers that had boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn, singing competitions are held
been fashioned with a mesh covering to allow the finches to with attending high stakes and betting. The agent pointed out
breathe. that a winning finch can be worth, at least, $10,000 (€8,000).
The reason behind this unusual action was in order to An unusual alternative to our Eurovision but, certainly, just as
fulfil his agreement to bring the birds into the country for a fee of emotional!
2 BLACK, 1 BLUE AND 98 CEMENT CARTRIDGES, PLEASE.
While not the first in Europe, in recent weeks, in Amsterdam, a couple moved into the first, fully 3D
printed, concrete house. Similar buildings have been produced in the US and also in France. The
house is a two-bedroomed bungalow with a living area of 94 square metres. As you would expect,
this is a unique process where, for example, the load bearing walls were made using an especially de-
signed 3D robotic arm fitted with a printer nozzle to build what were layers upon layers of concrete
to increase the strength of the walls. There are 24 concrete sections making up the building that
were printed, transported and completed at the foundation site. The roof and window frames were
then added with all internal electrics and plumbing as final fix. The house comes with a digital key
operated through a specially designed app. This is seen as a significant way forward in many aspects
and not least being the reality that it took a mere 120 hours to print the entire structure.
There are plans for five homes on the site and the final one, which will be
a three-bedroomed home will be shortly completed. The couple responded to an advertisement
seeking residents to try the new style homes. This couple are renting the house for six months at
€800 per month, which is 50%, on average, of the going rental rate in the Netherlands. Notably,
the builders behind this project are more than happy with the result and, especially, that of learning
through the process of home number one. They have confirmed that they will be in profit on homes
numbers two to five. Time to look more closely at this, Ireland.
Bin Here Before
In the UK, there is a distinct movement, beginning to be replicated here in
Ireland, with thousands of food and drink products carrying labels encour-
aging refill or return. The obvious goal is to promote and prompt consum-
ers to take their bottles and containers back to supermarkets, instead of
throwing them away. Now, this is interesting because Irish consumers
will, generally, have a strong recycling habit already through their bin and
bottle bank system. This is introducing something different and is placing
a degree of responsibility back into the retail side. The new labels are be-
ing promoted with the advice of whether the containers can be refilled at
home or in the store, but also, there is advice of how they can be returned
to brands or retailers to be cleaned, reused and redistributed through their
network.
To qualify for these labels, packaging must be designed
for a minimum reuse of ten times. Now, there are no details of at whose
cost all of this is and, in light of the aforementioned actions already taken
by consumers, it seems also to suggest that this is a little over the top in
terms of efficiency and cleanliness as opposed to maintaining brand al-
legiance and customer loyalty. Of course, I may be over thinking this……….
May 2021 www.thecai.ie 4
www.thecai.ie May 2021
FOOD & HEALTH/News by Clodagh O’Donoghue
Food & Health
News
Vegetarian Meat Substitutes – The need to check the label
One in four vegetarian meat-substitute fish substitutes; meat-substitute ham, safefood research include the following:
products are not a source of protein, bacon and deli slices; and pastry-based
according to new research by all-island meat substitutes, including sausage • Meat alternatives products can fit into
organisation safefood, highlighting the need rolls and pies. In addition, consumers’ a healthy diet but consumers should be
for consumers to check the nutrition labels behaviours and motivations for buying aware that these are still highly processed
on packaging. vegetarian, plant-based meat substitutes foods and so consumption needs to be
Dietary guidelines indicate were determined via a survey of 802 limited. Processed meats and poultry
that an adult needs around 50 grams of consumers between mid-November and such as sausages, bacon, cured meats,
protein over the course of a day, and this is mid-December 2020. chicken nuggets and chicken goujons
typically provided by foods such as meat, The meat alternative products should not be eaten every day, and this is
poultry, and fish, along with eggs, beans, were analysed by examining their also true for processed vegetarian meat
peas, lentils and nuts. However, there has nutritional labels and comparing their alternatives.
been significant growth in the market for nutritional composition with their meat
vegetarian, plant-based meat substitutes version. The products were found to • As meat alternatives vary significantly
in recent years, with estimates suggesting contain proteins from a number of in nutritional quality, consumers are
that the category will expand by almost 12% ingredient sources such as soya protein, advised to read labels carefully. In
between 2021 and 2028 to an annual total of wheat protein, beans, peas, lentils, mixed particular, consumers who are relying
$4.36 billion (€3.62 billion). This growth is in nuts, cheese, mushrooms, quinoa and on these products to contribute to their
line with an increasing trend in people moving tofu. In general, these are highly processed protein intake should check the protein
towards plant-based diets for a variety of food products with multiple ingredients, information. If the percentage of energy
motives, including health reasons, ethical including those aimed at adding flavour that comes from protein is between 12%
and environmental considerations, and and texture. The study found that 49% and 19.9%, the product can claim to be a
animal welfare concerns. However, if you buy or almost half of the meat-substitute source of protein, and if it is 20% or greater,
vegetarian meat substitutes you will need products were high in protein, while 23% the product can claim to be high in protein.
to make sure that they are a good source of were deemed to be a source of protein.
protein and that they contain low levels of However, this leaves 28% or one quarter • In addition, when choosing a vegetarian
salt, fat and sugar. of the products that are not a source of meat substitute, check the label and look
Often labelled as ‘meat free’, protein and it is important that consumers for products that are lower in fat, saturated
‘meat replacements’ or ‘meat alternatives’, who are relying on these products to fat, sugar and salt. Specifically, make sure
vegetarian meat substitutes are products contribute to their overall protein intake are that
that look or taste like meat, including plant- aware of this. In addition, salt levels tend
based burgers, steaks, mince, sausages, to be either similar or higher in plant-based • Fat is 3g or less per 100g
chicken and fish alternatives as well as meat substitutes than in meat equivalents. • Saturates are 1.5g or less per 100g
vegetarian ready-meals like pastries and On the plus side, most plant-based meat • Sugars are 5g or less per 100g
pies. These are typically highly processed substitutes are lower in energy, total fat • Salt is 0.3g or less per 100g
foods and the recent safefood research and saturated fat when compared to the
examined the nutritional content of a number meat version. • As plant-based meat alternatives
of products available on the Irish market and The consumer survey revealed generally contain more carbohydrates than
compared them with their meat equivalents. that one third of participants reported meat and less calories, adjustments may
eating meat substitutes such as vegan or be needed when using these products to
Study findings vegetarian versions of burgers, sausages, directly replace meat due to their differing
The study considered a total of 354 chicken or fish, with 48% of them eating nutritional profile.
plant-based meat alternative products them once a week or more. Among
available online from supermarkets on the consumers who eat these products, one • Plant sources of protein include beans,
island of Ireland in April and May 2020. third said that they chose them because peas, lentils, tofu, nuts and seeds – and
The products included meat-style meat- of their perceived health benefits, 21% these also have the benefit of being cheap,
substitute burgers; bean/vegetable-style because of taste and 15% because of low in fat and a source of vitamins and
meat-substitute burgers; meat-substitute environment/climate change concerns. minerals.
steaks, mince, meatballs and Bolognese;
chicken substitutes including nuggets, Consumer advice
southern fried and goujons; sausage and The key take-home messages of the
5 www.thecai.ie May 2021
MONEY NEWS
Money News Money News by Clodagh O'Donoghue
Upcoming changes to From July 1st, a number of changes to the
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland
the Electric Vehicles (SEAI) Electric Vehicle Purchase Scheme will
Grant Scheme be implemented.
From July 1st, some changes will grant available for a fully electric BEV • A low rate of annual motor tax, with BEVs
be made to the Sustainable Energy will remain set at €5,000, the maximum costing €120 a year and PHEVs typically
Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Electric grant that will be given for a PHEV will be costing €170 a year in motor tax
Vehicle Purchase Scheme, aimed reduced to €2,500. The Department of
at incentivising the uptake of more Transport has said that this change is in line • A Home Charger Grant Scheme that
environmentally friendly electric with the broader policy approach being offers a grant of up to €600 towards the
vehicles and reducing reliance on petrol taken by other EU member states due to installation of a home charger
and diesel cars. The ultimate goal is to the fact that PHEV ‘real world’ emissions
support the government’s commitment are often higher than those claimed by the •Benefit-in-kind tax relief for BEVs, with a
to achieving a 51% reduction in transport manufacturers of these vehicles. 0% rate applied on the first €50,000 of the
emissions by 2030. In another change to the current vehicle value
Currently, the SEAI offers grant scheme, from July a price cap will be
grants of up to €5,000 on both fully introduced so that only cars that cost less • An Electric Vehicle Toll Incentive Scheme
electric BEVs (battery electric vehicles) than €60,000 will be eligible to qualify that reduces tolls charged by 50% for BEVs
and PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric for a grant. According to the Department, and by 25% for PHEVs, up to a cap of €500
vehicles) that combine a petrol or diesel this change is to ensure that the grant is a year in refunds for private vehicles
engine with an electric motor. The table “targeted most effectively at those who
below shows the SEAI grant amounts might not otherwise buy an electric vehicle According to the Department of
currently available. Grants only apply and where the availability of government Transport, sales of new electric vehicles
to electric vehicles costing more than support is most likely to impact upon a in January and February 2021 totalled
€14,000 and the grant amount is based decision to purchase an EV. almost 2,900 vehicles – a rise of 63% on the
on the full, non-discounted list price of same two-month period in 2020 despite
the vehicle without taking into account pandemic restrictions shutting showrooms.
VRT relief or grant support. However, with recent figures suggesting
that there are currently nearly 30,000
Table: Current SEAI grant amounts available for both BEVs and PHEVs electric vehicles under taxation in Ireland,
until 1st July 2021. this puts the country a considerable way
off the government’s ambitious target
List price of approved EV Grant
that there will be almost a million electric
€14,000 to €15,000 €2,000 vehicles on Irish roads by 2030.
€15,000 to €16,000 €2,500
€16,000 to €17,000 €3,000
€17,000 to €18,000
€3,500
€18,000 to €19,000 €4,000
€19,000 to €20,000 €4,500
Greater than €20,000 €5,000
Source: seai.ie
From July 1st, a number of Other incentives aimed at
changes to the grant scheme will be encouraging consumers to swap to an
implemented and whereas the maximum electric vehicle include:
www.thecai.ie May 2021
6 www.thecai.ie
Debit and credit card fraud figures
In April, the Banking and Payments advantage of altered consumer behaviour • Always be wary of offers making
Federation Ireland (BPFI) published figures along with the increase in remote working outrageous claims – if it sounds too good to
showing that, while in-store card fraud and people being more contactable by be true it probably is.
transactions fell 52% in the first half of 2020, emails. In particular, impersonation scams
online card fraud was up 21% – reflecting have increased, with fraudsters mimicking In addition, given that the loss
the changes in shopping behaviour during delivery firms or trusted organisations or theft of physical cards still accounts for
the coronavirus pandemic. For the first six such as utility companies or banks via around 21% of card fraud, consumers must
months of last year, debit and credit card text, email or online websites. The BPFI always be vigilant when using their card in
fraud losses totalled €12.2 million, with over findings highlight the need for consumers store and treat it as if it were cash, keeping it
143,000 fraudulent card transactions. to be on high alert and to closely guard safe at all times.
BPFI Chief Executive Brian Hayes their card details. The following are some Further advice and information on
noted that the Covid-19 restrictions at the recommended strategies for shopping safely how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud is
start of the pandemic that generated lifestyle online: provided at fraudsmart.ie.
changes and significantly affected consumer
behaviour are reflected in the 21% rise in • Only use secure websites – ensuring that
‘card not present’ fraud transactions – in ‘https’ is in the website address, indicating
which the fraud typically takes place online a secure connection, before making the
and where the fraudster uses stolen card purchase.
details but does not need to produce
the physical card during the transaction. • Never use public wi-fi when making
According to the BPFI, 72% of all fraudulent payments – switch to 3G/4G on your phone if
transactions involved the theft of debit and necessary.
credit card details, with fraudsters mainly
using fake text messages, email scams or • Independently visit the website of the
fake websites to obtain a consumer’s card online sales company rather than clicking on
information, which they then use to make social media or pop-up adverts.
fraudulent payments, generally online.
Moreover, with the massive rise in online • Stick to well-known websites or websites
shopping over the last year, criminals have that you are familiar with or websites
very swiftly tailored their strategies to take associated with high street retail outlets.
Towards a statutory home support scheme
A well-resourced national home support scheme would • Reducing by half the number of home support recipients
give more people the choice of receiving care more who enter long-term residential care by providing them
appropriately in their homes and communities rather than with adequate intensive home support packages would
having to enter long-term residential care facilities. A new require an additional 4.2 million hours.
report from the Economic and Social Research Institute
(ESRI) marks a first step towards the introduction of a • Up to 8 million additional hours of home support may
statutory home support scheme, which is a key element be needed to meet the increased demand from
in Sláintecare, the ten-year programme for building a people with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) difficulties who
“world-class health and social care service for the Irish may have previously relied on unpaid and family care.
people”. The report, entitled Demand for the Statutory
Home Support Scheme, is the first of three research • A proportionate increase in the carer workforce
projects funded by the Department of Health to inform would be needed to meet the increased demand.
the development of a home support scheme.
Key findings include the following: As expected, the report highlights the
significant increase in the demand for home support
• An estimated 24.7 million home support in the coming years, largely because of the country’s
hours were provided in 2019 to more than 65,000 ageing population. According to one of the report’s
people aged 65 years and over, with a quarter of all hours authors, Brendan Walsh, older people with personal or
purchased privately. domestic care needs clearly want to remain at home for
as long as they can and the introduction of a statutory
• Compared to the level of home support provided in scheme will greatly increase the demand for home
2019, increasing home support to all older people waiting support in Ireland. He notes that it is vital, therefore, that
for a support package or added hours would require “adequate resources and planning ensure that people
an additional 3.5 million hours. can receive the care they need, tailored to their specific
circumstances, in an affordable and timely manner".
May
May2021
2021
7 www.thecai.ie
www.thecai.ie
Product/Tech News
Product News by Clodagh O'Donoghue
Extension to Irish Water’s First Fix Scheme
In April, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) approved include the following:
a proposal by Irish Water to extend the First Fix Scheme and to
broaden the eligibility criteria of water customers who can benefit • Domestic customers whose usage exceeds the annual allowance of
from the free leakage repair service. The scheme is aimed at helping 213,000 litres will be prioritised for leak investigation;
to reduce the amount of water wasted through leaks on customers’
properties and it provides qualifying domestic customers with a free • Water users will no longer need to be registered with Irish Water;
leak investigation and repair to their external supply pipe.
The CRU considers that the scheme has delivered real • Unmetered domestic Irish Water customers will now be eligible;
value given the level of water savings achieved and compared with
the significant costs of providing water services. Between 2015 • A customer no longer requires an internal stop valve to be eligible;
and 2019, the scheme has led to a total of 155 million litres a day in
water savings, equal to the average usage of 450,000 households • Properties with a Shared Service Connection will now be eligible.
every year. Most of these savings were made in the earlier years of
the scheme as Irish Water targeted the biggest leaks first. At the The First Fix Scheme forms part of conservation efforts
time, the incentive for customers was to reduce their water usage and objectives in the context of the growing demand for water
by rectifying the leaks in advance of the implementation of direct services and greater rainfall variability as a result of climate
domestic water charges. change. According to Dr Paul McGowan, CRU Commissioner with
To ensure the continued success of the scheme in the responsibility for water, “expanding the scheme to other water
absence of charges for domestic customers and with the postponed customers should provide an increased level of engagement with
introduction of excess usage charges, the CRU has approved the customers, particularly with the planned introduction of charges
scheme’s extension to make it available to the vast majority of water for excess water usage. This should accelerate leak repair, and so
users and Irish Water customers. The main changes to the scheme reduce water service costs”.
Eco-friendly upgrade to Google Maps
Google has announced a number of upgrades for its free As well as a revamped interface for choosing your
navigation service, Google Maps, including suggestions for the preferred mode of transportation for directions, other changes for
most eco-friendly way of getting to your destination. Once the the service include new map layers for weather and air quality that
improvements are rolled out, users will be shown the most fuel- are set to be introduced in the coming months. While the weather
efficient driving route by default where the ETA (estimated time layer will be launched globally, the air quality information will first
of arrival) is similar to the quickest route. Where the eco-friendly be made available in Australia, India, and the US.
route will significantly increase the ETA, the user will be shown Another Google Maps upgrade that may take a while
the CO2 impact of the different routes so that they can make their to reach us here on this side of the water is an extension of the
decision. To make these calculations and help users minimise fuel LiveView feature. LiveView lets you hold your smartphone camera
consumption, Google Maps has worked with the US Department up to the world around you and provides arrows and icons to guide
of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab on the design of a you to where you need to go. Previously, this feature only worked
routing system that takes into account traffic congestion and outdoors but now there is an indoor version designed to work in
steepness of roads. Google plans to make these new fuel-efficient shopping malls, airports, train stations and so on. Inside Live View
routes available on Android and iOS in the US later in 2021, with no can point you to the nearest escalator or lift, toilets, check-in
timeframe currently given for the rollout to the rest of the world. counters, baggage claim and more. As of yet, the feature is only
Users will also be provided with more comprehensive views of available for shopping malls in a handful of cities across the US,
travel options that may be more environmentally-friendly than but there are plans for a rollout in coming months for certain
driving. airports, malls and transit stations in Tokyo and Zurich.
The products featured on these pages have not been tested by the Consumers’ Association of Ireland and
their inclusion here is not, in any way, an endorsement of them.
8 www.thecai.ie May 2021
ComReg Connectivity Survey
As the focus on working from home continues, the latest Connectivity Survey by the Commission for
Communications Regulation (ComReg) confirms the importance of broadband services to a remote
workforce as well as highlighting customer satisfaction and switching experiences. Towards the end
of 2020, a nationally representative sample of 1,480 adults aged 18+ from across the country were
asked about their home broadband experience. Of these, 79% said that home broadband was very
important, with this figure rising to 95% among those working from home on a regular basis. Overall,
three-quarters or 74% of survey participants were satisfied with their home broadband service,
with the main criticisms relating to slow or variable broadband speeds and unreliable internet
connections.
When asked what factors they consider in choosing a broadband provider, survey
participants based in Dublin most frequently cited trust in a brand as the key reason why they were
with their current supplier. Those outside Dublin were more likely to consider speed and quality
of connection as a key reason. In all, 45% of participants believe that they would benefit from a
faster broadband connection, while 72% are likely to take up high-speed broadband if it becomes
available, with this figure highest in the country’s least populated areas.
The survey shows that 55% of the Irish population have a bundle of services in their home,
with this figure higher in Dublin and more urban regions. When it comes to switching providers, one
in five bundle owners who are out of contract or whose contract expires in the next 12 months say
they are likely to switch bundles over the next year. Of those who have switched bundles previously,
71% compared bundles before making the switch and 45% now have a lower bill with their current
bundle. In general, the vast majority of consumers who have switched broadband provider have
seen an improvement in overall experience, download speeds and reliability and most of those who
switched their broadband service are happier with their current service provider. ComReg notes
that it provides a comprehensive and easy-to-use comparison tool at https://www.comreg.ie/
compare/#/services to help consumers check out the different offers and bundles available.
Space-aged wine
Looking for that special bottle of wine? How about one that on complex biological systems to find solutions for the
has been to space and back? A wine-tasting event took place viticulture and agriculture of tomorrow”. Along with the
recently in France to sample the delights of wine that had bottled wine, 320 vine canes were also sent to the ISS to
spent a year on board the International Space Station (ISS) test the effects of a microgravity environment on their
and it met with a very positive reception. development. Having spent ten months on the ISS, the
In November 2019, a dozen bottles of 2000 vintage vine canes were planted a few days after being returned to
Petrus made the 300,000,000km trip to the ISS as part of a Earth and were seen to produce visibly noticeable buds and
scientific experiment called CommuBioS to examine how the growth earlier than vines that had stayed on Earth in similar
aging of complex liquids is influenced by zero gravity. The conditions. Further experiments on the vines are ongoing.
choice of Petrus was based on the fact that it is a mainly
mono-varietal wine and it has a well-documented history
to facilitate measurement of the effects of the wine’s time
in space. Earlier this year, after a stay of 438 days, the 12
bottles made it safely back to Earth and a panel of 12 experts
met in Bordeaux for a first taste of the space wine and to
compare it with a terrestrial sample in terms of appearance,
taste and smell. The panelists were not aware in advance
which wine they were tasting but key differences were
noted in colour and the space wine was found to be “more
evolved” with softer tannins and more floral aromatics when
contrasted with the earthbound version, which was declared
to be “a bit more closed, a bit more tannic, a bit younger”.
The investigation formed part of Mission WISE, an
applied space research programme that, in the context of
global warming, seeks to “leverage the effects of microgravity
9 www.thecai.ie May 2021Lifestyle / Healthy habits
Adjusting to ‘The New Normal’
After over a year of static, hope is On the bright side, extended
As the vaccine rollout appearing on the horizon. Vaccines screen time is not necessarily harmful for
continue to be administered in phases adults or children, according to Harvard
continues, we will be throughout the country, with the Pilgrim Health Care, a nonprofit group of
shifting toward a new government hoping to have over 80% of healthcare companies in the US. However,
adults given their first vaccine dose by it adds that issues arise when we use our
kind of normalcy. Some July 1st. As the country reopens, it may electronics in place of other activities like
be useful to address the future of culture get-togethers, sleep or physical activity.
of our lockdown habits and lifestyle post-pandemic. Covid-19 This is especially true for children who
may be beneficial made major impacts on our habits and may not have had the option during the
ways of living. So, what lessons have we pandemic to play sports or see friends
moving forward, but learned over the course of this pandemic, in person. Even before the pandemic,
others should be left and how can we use those lessons
to emerge from our homes ready and
teenagers actively opened social media
nearly 100 times every day, according to
behind. prepared for this ‘new normal’? the University of Wisconsin.
To avoid further reliance on
Effects of constant screen time electronics, Harvard Pilgrim recommends
REPORT by Will Andronico Jr. Once the country was sent home from that parents have their children put
work last spring to then work from their phones away during meals and
home, staring at screens became our before bed. For adults, the same
At a glance major source of income, entertainment recommendations apply. Additionally,
• Healthy habits and connection with others. A direct adults should try limiting their online
• Lifestyle adjustments correlation exists between using entertainment during the working day (for
• Supporting local businesses electronics and doing our jobs (i.e. getting example, mindless scrolling on Twitter)
paid). This makes it more difficult to and placing email on mute outside work
separate from our screens throughout the hours to regain a healthier equilibrium
day. between work and play.
10 www.thecai.ie May 2021Coming out of the pandemic, it issues and risks significantly increase. result, many restaurants had to make
becomes essential to start moving away According to the Mayo Foundation for quick assessments and turn to takeaway
from reliance on our devices. Experts Medical Education and Research in the and delivery apps, such as Just Eat and
say that periodic breaks from screen US, prolonged sitting can increase the Deliveroo, to stay in business.
time can prove beneficial for our overall chances of death “similar to the risks of Under normal circumstances,
health, and moving away from our phones dying posed by obesity and smoking”. restaurants can generate revenue in
and computers can lessen the stress of Additionally, without much many different ways. On top of the food
a constant ‘ping’ from work emails. We ability to leave home, we lose out on an order itself, customers may make more
also improve our relationships with others opportunity to gain vitamin D. The vitamin spontaneous purchases whilst eating
without our phones, as studies show that is key to having healthy bones, according in person, such as ordering a cocktail or
we become less connected and attentive to the Cleveland Clinic in the US. Sunlight appetiser. They may also be more inclined
just with phones nearby, never mind when exposure for 15 or 20 minutes for three to tip servers for exceptional service.
they are in use. days each week is one way of getting However, all that additional revenue was
Generally, it is beneficial to your weekly dose of vitamin D, doctors gone without in-person dining, and food
create boundaries between us and say. Many people would traditionally delivery and takeaway apps like Just Eat
our technology to generate better get vitamin D naturally by commuting or and other companies charge restaurants
relationships, stay active and stay leaving the house each day but, without fees for utilising their services. With
healthy. Speaking of activity… that opportunity, people need to actively every order, Just Eat and Deliveroo charge
incorporate vitamin D through their meals restaurants a service fee for using their
The ‘sedentary lifestyle’ or vitamin supplements. platform.
The pandemic also brought on a major When the country is no longer As a result of lost streams of
lack of physical activity across the house-bound, many options crop up cash, Irish restaurants anticipated a 41%
country. One study from the Journal of for healthily leaving this ‘sedentary drop in revenue in the fourth quarter of
Medical Internet Research showed that, lifestyle’. Experts say that between 60 2020 compared with the fourth quarter
especially among young people, physical and 75 minutes of “moderately intense of 2019, according to a Crowe Ireland
activity in the UK dropped significantly physical activity” every day can offset sentiment survey from last summer.
during the first half of 2020 when the effects of sitting so much. Exercise Restaurants at that time expected a 27%
lockdowns were in place. is also beneficial for improving mental decrease in 2021 revenue compared to
health, releasing endorphins or hormones 2019, but since the survey was conducted
that reward your brain with feel-good in August and September of last year, the
emotions. Some research shows that subsequent severe restrictions that were
exercise may reduce the effects of imposed may cause further decreases in
depression and anxiety too. revenue.
Warmer weather on the horizon Therefore, as vaccine rollouts
also gives more opportunities to get continue and in-person dining becomes
out of the house for exercise and get more doable, we should make a concerted
the sunlight that is so important for our effort to create a dining experience
vitamin D levels. However, it is important when visiting restaurants and avoid
to safely ease back into our consumption delivery through these food-delivery
of sunlight. Doctors say that your skin apps. Eating out provides a fun night for
needs to slowly get used to the sun again customers and better revenue streams
to recalibrate for the sun’s ultraviolet for restaurants. If takeaway or delivery
(UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays is your only option, save yourself and the
can lead to cell damage and risks of skin restaurant money on third-party mobile
cancer, especially after months of being phone app fees by calling over the phone
inside. Thus, it is key to start slow with to use the restaurant’s in-house delivery
In 2019, the Irish government sun exposure. system or opting to collect it yourself from
noted that a major health goal was to Post-pandemic, try leaving the the restaurant
increase the portion of the population house and enjoy the freedom of being able Additionally, it’s much cheaper
adhering to physical activity guidelines to exit the 5km radius. Research from the per serving to cook at home (and
by 1% each year. However, between Nature Neuroscience journal shows that sometimes more fun) than ordering
2015 and 2019, that portion increased changing scenery and incorporating more takeaway each night. For example,
from 44% to just 46% overall. A new variance in our daily activity is beneficial McGowan’s of Phibsboro serves the
research project undertaken by Sport for staying positive. In short, once the “Classic” burger with chips for €12.95.
Ireland and the Waterford Institute of country opens up more, try getting out of The ingredients include the burger patty
Technology showcases what is called a your seat, getting outside and changing with a brioche bun, lettuce, tomato, pickle
“silent pandemic of physical inactivity”. your environment once in a while. Your and spicy mayonnaise. When purchasing
Working from home encouraged much brain and your body will thank you later! ingredients from the supermarket to
sitting throughout the day, and Ireland make a similar meal at home using the
implemented a limit for months that Food economy and delivery burger recipe from all-island organisation
prevented anyone from travelling beyond services safefood, one serving of a burger with
5km from home without a “reasonable To prevent the spread of coronavirus, chips would cost €1.68, a 90% drop
excuse”. As a result of sitting for businesses across the country shut down, in price from McGowan’s. Naturally,
long periods of time every day, health including food service businesses. As a however, the business’ overheads,
11 www.thecai.ie May 2021staffing and convenience costs cause according to a study from last year in
the price for a burger to increase. The the Journal of Environmental Science &
safefood website provides ‘fakeaway’ Technology. As with online groceries,
options for people to cook at home, takeaway and delivery, shipping costs and
bringing the taste of takeaway home operational fees can mount up over time.
without all the calories. Furthermore, returning items via
On the note of groceries, pickup postal or courier services can be costly.
and delivery services can also become Many stores will pay for customers to
expensive fast. In the March 2021 edition return products, but not all will do this.
of Consumer Choice, we reported that Nearly 74% of consumers choose an
grocery delivery fees can range between online store based on whether or not
€4 and €8, and click and collect options, they need to pay for return shipping
although cheaper, may still add between themselves, according to a 2020 review
€2 and €4 of additional costs. Those fees from the Interactive Media in Retail
can add up over time, so save money and Group. However, 33% of online stores say
make that trip to the store on your own. increasing numbers of returns are driving
Again, changes of scenery are beneficial the prices of their products up.
for mental health, and you will save those Coming out of the pandemic,
delivery slots for those who may not have small businesses will need consumer
the option to visit supermarkets in person. support to keep open — corporations
Thus, order takeaway or delivery can afford to keep going for a long while
groceries only if necessary! Save your without help. Visit the farmer’s market
money by going to the store yourself and or the local sustainable fashion store
cooking at home. However, when you do instead of Tesco, Amazon or other giants,
decide to splurge a bit, make eating out and take your returns straight back to
an experience — something many of us the shop. Fewer postal returns to stores while lowering physical activity levels, a
may have taken for granted before the may signal to retailers to drop the price study from Frontiers in Genetics showed.
pandemic. of goods and save you money on future Those living below the poverty line are
purchases. You will also reduce the likely to experience these effects more
Small businesses overall carbon footprint of your shopping prominently due to an inability to obtain
The pandemic has severely challenged experience and save money on fees and the most basic necessities. However,
small businesses across the country shipping along the way. the same study showed that isolated
while corporate powerhouses thrived. individuals can mitigate their loneliness
How can a small shop on the corner by adopting a pet and using electronics to
compete with the kinds of delivery connect with others.
services available at the countrywide As we enter a new kind of
supermarket chain? normalcy, many of us will be socially
Although 74% of small and awkward since we have been absent from
medium businesses in Ireland expect to in-person social interactions for so long.
be fully operational in the first six months Studies show that prolonged isolation can
of 2021, 13% say they will never return to reverse our abilities to speak fluently or
pre-pandemic operations, according to remember things clearly. Thus, experts
the Visa Back to Business Study, which have advised to readjust slowly and
gives an economic outlook for countries embrace the awkwardness. As weather
across the world for 2021. More than half continues to improve for outdoor social
of those businesses added that, should gatherings, this is the perfect time to
the economy worsen, they will have to start adding those beneficial social
shut down. This study was completed in stresses back into our lives, such as
November of last year, but since level 5 hosting guests in gardens when allowed
restrictions have been in place for much or venturing out in public. Practice makes
longer than originally anticipated, it is perfect!
possible that the pandemic’s effect on
small businesses is worse than expected. Better times ahead
On the other hand, grocery giant Return to in-person socialisation Despite uncertainties with the vaccine
Tesco increased pre-tax profits by nearly As humans, social interaction is baked rollout, light is on the horizon. Restrictions
30% in the first half of the 2020/2021 into our being. Due to the pandemic, are gradually easing up, and more will
fiscal year compared to 2019/2020. Online isolation and separation from others come as more vaccines are administered.
shopping also boomed, as Amazon nearly have had major impacts on both our Thus, it is important that we prepare to
doubled its net income in 2020 compared ability to interact with others and our re-enter our newly-designed, in-person
to 2019. While small businesses worried mental health. Although Zoom certainly lives. That way, when we do get the
for the future, corporations flourished. helps, nothing compares to in-person go-ahead, we return seamlessly to seeing
In addition, online-only stores interaction. our family, sticking to healthy habits and
generally have greater greenhouse gas Lockdown practices caused stepping away from our screens more
emissions than brick-and-mortar stores, increases in anxiety and sleeplessness often.
12 www.thecai.ie May 2021Lifestyle / Summer camp survey
Summer Camp Survey
What will summer In these uncertain times, it is hard to know
exactly what the summer will look like but
mixed results. Some organisations have
been wary of taking bookings for courses
2021 bring in terms there are high hopes that there will be a until they see how far restrictions will
of camps and return to a form of normality and that some
traditional aspects of the season will be
be lifted, whereas others are bravely
forging ahead. At time of writing, several
courses for children possible. Well before the school holidays organisations were stating that, although
begin, many parents put together plans for they were hopeful that they would be able
and teenagers? the summer that may include courses and to offer their camps, they were waiting
Consumer Choice camps to cater to their children’s interests
and fill their free time productively. Last
to see what the government will permit
before providing any details. Others have
considers the outlook year, many summer courses were inevitably taken the decision to cancel in-person
cancelled due to pandemic restrictions, activities and to only offer online courses
and what is currently while some outdoor camps managed to for this year. Nonetheless, there are
on offer. carry on under strict conditions and other
organisations chose to migrate online as a
plenty of organisations that are optimistic
that the country will be sufficiently
way of offering participants a virtual camp reopened by July and August to allow
REPORT by Clodagh O’Donoghue experience. Children and their parents summer camps to be held more or less
will be hoping that summer 2021 will bring as usual – albeit with stringent infection
At a glance more opportunities for attending in-venue, prevention strategies in place – and they
• Survey findings in-person camps of various sorts. However, are inviting bookings from parents. As
• Covid-19 arrangements while camps continue to focus on providing ever, there is a vast range of activities
participants with a fun, enjoyable and fruitful on offer – from sports of all kinds to get
experience, an equal focus this year has to children moving and physically active to
be on reducing the risk of possible spread STEM courses to stimulate their brains
of Covid-19 among those involved. A quick and arts and drama camps to tap into
survey of what is currently on offer in terms their creativity. A new category for this
of camps and courses shows a mixture of year includes a range of online virtual
approaches and a range of plans in place for camps and workshops – these typically
running pandemic-era summer activities. run for a couple of hours each day over
the course of a week or fortnight and
What is on offer materials may be delivered in advance
At the end of April, a search online for that will be needed for participation.
summer camps in Ireland in 2021 brings Our table below provides details of a
13 www.thecai.ie May 2021selection of courses and camps that able to run in all of their usual venues for 2021. In addition, many camps are
hope to be running and have commenced and many camps will reduce the size of naturally designed around physical
taking bookings. However, this list is individual groups, with no mixing between activity outdoors and, where there are few
far from exhaustive and, depending on groups permitted, to lower the number options for adjourning safely indoors, it
the plan and timeline for lifting Covid-19 of contacts for participants and staff. may be a case of ensuring that your child
restrictions, many more may have been Often courses have chosen to shorten is dressed for the weather and equipped
added since the survey was conducted. the length of the day slightly compared with rain gear and a change of clothes
with the camp timetables of previous in the event that these should become
years and access to some facilities and necessary.
activities that cannot be conducted
safely in a pandemic environment may Our survey
need to be curtailed for the 2021 season. On our table, we have indicated the entire
Moreover, some residential courses range of ages catered for in a particular
have ditched three-week stays in favour course, but camps typically break down
of two-week durations only. Another these age groups into much narrower
common precaution that is in place are bands – for example, 5-7 years, 8-11
staggered drop-off and pick-up times that years, 12-15 years – so that instruction
enable organisers to better manage social and tuition are more specifically geared
distancing. Some camps have stipulated towards the participants’ level of ability
that drop-offs and collections will be and understanding. Most camps run
‘contactless’ with payments made in full in on a weekly, Monday-to-Friday basis
advance and no parents allowed to enter – although if the schedule coincides
venues and facilities unless expressly with the August bank holiday, camps
agreed in advance with the camp head will generally run for just the four days
office. Tuesday to Friday and a reduced fee will
Safety procedures that we apply. As in previous years, there are
have become all too familiar with will summer camps and courses that cater
Covid-19 arrangements typically be in place, such as strict social for just about every taste and talent, from
Even in the best-case scenario where distancing, visible signage, hand hygiene archaeology to zip lining – so whether
summer courses and camps can go and sanitisation stations and temperature your child or teen is an aspiring athlete,
ahead, there are a number of common checks. Enhanced cleaning protocols a budding scientist, a promising artist, a
Covid-19 prevention measures that and defined procedures for dealing with mathematical wizard, a musical genius,
are being put in place as camps of all someone who is displaying symptoms of an adventure junkie or an up-and coming
kinds seek to adapt to the challenges Covid-19 are also features of all camps filmmaker, there should be something
of running organised activities during a on offer. Many organisers specifically available that will appeal. Our table
pandemic and safeguard both staff and state that, although they will take every illustrates just a sample of camps and
children. One key strategy being adopted precaution, they cannot guarantee that a courses – both in-venue and online –
is a reduction in the overall number of child will not contract Covid-19 during the currently taking bookings, with many more
participants in order to enable better camp. As when attending school, children organisers hoping to be able to go ahead
social distancing – this means that spaces who are feeling unwell should be kept at with their offerings following government
on popular courses could be even more home. announcements on the easing of
limited this year. Parents may need to Just because we are in a restrictions.
keep a careful eye on relevant websites pandemic, this does not mean that the The last time we conducted
to catch any opportunities for booking other key considerations when it comes this survey was in 2017 and, perhaps
as they become available and our survey to choosing a summer camp for your inevitably, the prices of many established
noted that some camp dates were already child do not apply. Health and safety courses have crept up a little in that
sold out in April. have never been more important and, as time. Prices may also have risen slightly
While it is tempting to book well as knowing that proper strategies to help offset lower participant numbers
early to secure your place, it is important and protocols to prevent the spread of and extra precautions necessitated by
that parents and guardians first read Covid-19 are in place, parents should be the pandemic. As ever, it is typically more
through the refund policy in the event satisfied in advance that there will be an expensive to keep teenagers entertained
of camp cancellation for whatever adequate level of supervision in terms than their younger siblings, but the higher
reason, including the reimposition of of child-to-staff ratio and that staff are charges generally reflect longer hours of
Covid-19 restrictions. Many camps properly trained and qualified. Since activity, more advanced levels of training
state that refunds will be issued in such 2016, it is mandatory that all staff working or more sophisticated equipment on offer.
circumstances, while some stipulate a with children or vulnerable adults have When enquiring about cost, be sure to ask
non-refundable administration charge undergone garda vetting. if there are any early booking discounts
and others may return only a portion of This summer more than ever, we that may apply or if there is a reduction
the fee if equipment or materials have will be keeping our fingers crossed for fine for enrolling a number of siblings at the
already been issued and delivered and weather given the repeated advice that same time. Booking subsequent courses
organisational costs have been incurred. outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor can also yield a discount, if you think your
Do not part with a deposit or a fee before ones. In a couple of instances, activities child is going to enjoy themselves so much
checking the refund policy and ensuring that would traditionally take place indoors that they would like to return for another
that you are happy with it. – such as cooking demonstrations and week. There may also be an option to pay
Some courses may not be workshops – have been moved outside in instalments.
14 www.thecai.ie May 2021You can also read
