Muintir Mhaigh Eo Atha Cliath was delighted to see a large attendance of supporters and friends of the association gathered for the official launch of the 2016 World Convention which took place in Ireland West Airport Knock (IWAK ), last Friday.
In welcoming those present, the PRO of Mayo Association Dublin Mairead Kenny, underlined the fact that IWAK was an ideal launch pad for the World Convention given the strong ties between the association and Knock airport over the years. The association supported Knock airport with fundraising efforts in the day when the idea of an airport in Mayo was in its infancy and later as Monsignor Horan and Bishop Cunnane became recipients of the Meitheal award and former chairperson of Knock airport Joe Kennedy became Mayo Person of the Year.
The chairperson of the World Convention subcommittee Noel Howley said the theme of the convention this year is 'Mayo- the Connected County', and associations worldwide will have an opportunity to connect and strengthen ties in Belmullet from April 29 to May 1. The chief executive of Mayo County Council Peter Hynes added that the 2016 convention is the flagship event for Mayo Day which formally takes place on May 1 this year.
He added that the conventions which have been taking place every two years since the first one took place in 1990 in Westport are important to ensure the Mayo diaspora stays connected and provides support to those who leave the county to other parts of the globe. Dara Calleary TD remarked on the Erris Peninsula being an excellent location for the convention and said the event would be an opportunity to celebrate and promote the spirit of Mayo and share the deep pride Mayo people have in the green and red. Tommy Griffith, current Mayo Person of the Year, underlined the significance of having Knock airport as a launch pad for the convention and the unique strength of the Mayo Associations worldwide.
The chairperson of Mayo Association Dublin Paul Sammin wrapped up the evening thanking the subcommittee on their efforts with the support of the county council to arrange the logistics of the event and added that he looks forward to seeing everyone at the convention. Further details on the upcoming World Convention and tickets can be found at the Mayo Association,website www.mayoassociationdublin.com
