When a shop becomes a sanctuary: what Cork is losing with Primetime’s closure

As Primetime prepares to close, its founders reflect on three decades of streetwear, skate culture and community in Cork

Niall Hassett and Louisa Heckett at Primetime, 8/9 Washington Street, Cork City. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

It was 1995 when Niall Hasset walked into Primetime. The store, still in its infancy, was opened three years prior in 1992 by his now business partner and co-owner, Louisa Heckett.

Heckett, only 19 at the time, had just come home from travelling, bringing back with her bumbags and other streetwear accessories from Camden Town in London with the intent to sell them in her hometown of Cork.