Mervue United’s grounds and training facilities are to undergo a series of improvements and important additions while the hours the public can use the grounds have also been increased.
At Monday’s city council meeting, councillors were asked to grant approval for the development of two sand grass pitches, a training area, a four lane running track, and a perimeter fence, at the Mervue United grounds.
The plans were passed by city councillors although there were differences of opinion regarding the hours of public usage.
Independent councillor Catherine Connolly proposed the public usage times be increased from 20 hours to 30 hours. Fine Gael councillor Pádraig Conneely called for the increase to be by five hours instead of 10, and this latter motion was accepted by councillors.
During the meeting, a proposal came from Cllr Conneely, and seconded by Fianna Fáil councillor Ollie Crowe, to name the renovated grounds, currently known as Fahy's Field, as Bridie O'Flaherty Park, after the former mayor of Galway. The suggestion was given a unanimous recommendation by all councillors present.
the news has been welcomed by Galway West TDs Brian Walsh and Noel Grealish.
Dep Walsh said it was "an acknowledgement of Bridie O'Flaherty's role in maintaining this open space as a recreational area for the youth of the City is long overdue".
Dep Grealish said: "It is unique that all parties supported this proposal and it was s fitting tribute to the memory of a lady who contributed so much to her community over the years".
