Athlone Town Mayor, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, has welcomed the recent easing of public health restrictions as a semblance of normality returns and numerous local businesses reopen their doors to commence face to face trading.
“The government’s relaxation of restrictions is very welcome after a long and trying winter for everybody. Many aspects of the announcement took people by surprise, with a quicker return of some services than expected.
“It is truly wonderful that the public health situation now supports a cautious easing of restrictions, but of course, the easing of restrictions is only possible because of the steadfast attitude and resilience of the Irish people.
“The government have committed to a recovery plan and I look forward to seeing the details of that, but more immediately they need to put in place a robust ‘reopening’ assistance package for businesses that have been closed now for months on end.
“The plan must provide viable businesses with supports to assist them on the road to reopening. We have come through a long period of closure and it will be some time before the country and economy gets back to pre-Covid economic activity and employment levels.
“A reopening economic plan for society and the economy must have an immediate, medium and long-term focus in order to minimise the closures and job losses that might otherwise occur,” Cllr O’Rourke stated.
Tribute to Gerry Mulrooney
Meanwhile, the Town Mayor afforded his saddened thoughts following the recent passing of Gerry Mulrooney, the St Francis Terrace resident who was a well known and much loved figure in Athlone.
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gerry Mulrooney in recent times. Gerry, who lived in St Francis Terrace in the heart of Athlone, was a much loved figure around Athlone for a very long time.
“Everyone had great time for Gerry because he himself had great time for people. In fact, he dedicated much of his life to helping and assisting people in their hour of need.
“Gerry was involved with St Vincent De Paul for many years. He selflessly spent decades of his life quietly working away to ensure that the most vulnerable in society were assisted and supported when necessary.
“He will be forever remembered for his kind and generous heart. Gerry will be greatly missed by the residents in St Francis Terrace and by everyone who knew him. I would like to express my deepest condolences to his brother Hugh and to his extended family, friends and connections,” the Town Mayor concluded.
