At a gala awards ceremony in Thomond Park, Limerick on November 3, groups from Mayo took four of the top prizes in the All-Island IPB Pride of Place Competition in association with Co-operation Ireland.
In Category 1, which is for populations of fewer than 200, Addergoole Lahardane took top prize. The judges said: “The village was in a stunning location with facilities and amenities of which other communities often dream.”
Westport took the top prize in Category 11, which is a special category award for previous prize-winners. The judges said: “In many ways this is an iconic community. There is a great strength of partnership, purpose, and energy. In 2007 we said there was very strong evidence of involvement and support from all sections of the community. In 2012 we say that community participation is at an even higher level and is in concert with a committed and driven local authority. This is a stunning wonderful place with a community that continues to inspire in every possible manner.”
Bonniconlon took runner–up place in Category 2, which is for population size of between 200 and 500, while Mulranny Tourism Group took second place in Category 6, a ‘single issue’ themed category - Cultural Tourism.
At the event the winners were congratulated and presented with their awards by Jan O’Sullivan Minister of State; Christopher Moran, chairman Co-operation Ireland; Tom Dowling, chairman of the Pride of Place Committee; and IPB chief executive Ronan Foley.
