Westport town councillors have shown support to the revival of bonfire night, which has been proposed by a group of local people.
At the council meeting Councillor Myles Staunton said that a bonfire at the Fairgreen, as proposed by a local bonfire committee, is a “great idea”.
Cathaoirleach of the council, Cllr Ollie Gannon, also said that it was “a good proposal”. Cllr Martin Keane said that it is important to celebrate St John’s night and Cllr Margaret Adams said she was “delighted” that bonfire night is being brought back.
Cllr Michael McLaughlin said it is important to retain as much heritage as possible and in the year of The Gathering a bonfire is a “natural community gathering”. Cllr Mulroy said that all areas should have their own bonfire.
Town manager Martin Keating said that the environmental section of Mayo County Council has guidelines as regards bonfires which need to be adhered to. Mr Keating said there had been some preliminary discussions with organisers and there were some issues regarding safety and insurance if the council were to be involved, however he said that the council would engage with organisers.
