A Co Tyrone family who relocated to Connemara, Co Galway, are prospering with a business which sells seaweed cosmetics.
The unique venture, which includes natural products such as face cream, oils and other skincare products, was set up by Deirdre Uí Chathmhaoil and husband Seamus after relocating to the Gaeltacht area of Spideal.
Originally from Coalisland, Deirdre set up Ri na Mara in 2004 after working as a nurse in Craigavon Area hospital and then in England, specialising in dermatology treatments.
Speaking to MyTyrone, Deirdre said the business was set up as herself and her husband felt the natural resource of seaweed was being under-utilised.
Deirdre added: “I grew up with businesses in Coalisland, my mother and father both had shops in the town, so there was always an ethos of having your own business and employing yourself really.
“I found they were great role models for me but I always wanted to nurse so I trained in Craigavon and worked in a dermatology unit in England.
“I really wanted to return back home so I decided to come to Galway and I worked as a nurse here for a bit, before deciding to set up my own business.
“We decided to investigate if we could set up a business manufacturing and making skincare products from seaweed - it’s a totally under-utilised resource that we have here in the west full of vitamins, proteins and minerals and people have been using this for hundreds of years.”
The emphasis for Deirdre and the company is on making the most of natural resources, and she added that the products they sell don't contain any chemicals and are suitable for vegans as well.
The move to Connemara was a natural one for the Co Tyrone family as they would have holidayed frequently in that area in days gone by.
"We've four children and they are all fluent Irish speakers, so it was important for us to continue in a place where they could continue to use that.
"After visiting Galway for many years we just really liked the lifestyle, it's really relaxed. But we still love going home and seeing my family in Coalisland, and I'm very proud to be from there.
"Growing up around Coalisland I had a lovely childhood there and very fond memories and I love to return. It's important to remember your roots and where you come from."
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