A sense of community was most evident in Bliary/Moydrum in recent times as the local residents association united to formally open a new footpath the construction of which will increase pedestrian safety, encourage fitness and allow neighbours to meet and converse in an outdoor setting.
Bliary/Moydrum and its environs are full of interesting attractions, including walls built during famine times, high crosses, and the ruins of Moydrum castle which was burnt down over 100 years ago.
The addition of this recently completed footpath will ensure safety to those residents who have to contend with high traffic volumes passing through the locality on a regular basis.
Speaking at the event, Ignatius Lynam, chairperson of the residents association praised the enthusiasm and hard working ethos of community members which enbale the project to come to fruition. Ignatius expressed his gratitude to local businesses who assisted with the initiative.
Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council, Cllr Frankie Keena, afforded appreciation to local residents and businesses who donated €10,000 towards the worthy project.
“This area is fortunate to have a marvellous residents association chaired by Ignatius Lynam and a development committee under the guidance of Ciaran McKenna who continuously devises new ideas to generate funds.
“I wish to further thank Westmeath County Council for prioritising funding for this project and for affording such excellent support for the project under the Community Involvement Scheme initiative. This scheme is now identified as an exemplary model within the County Council on best ways of delivering on Community Involvement Schemes.
“It would be remiss of me not to give a special mention to Edward Moore, aged 10, who raised over €300 last year towards the path from a lemonade stand which he set up outside his home - it was just great to see Edward doing the honours and cutting the ribbon to officially open the path with local children cheering him on,” Cllr Keena stated.
Ciaran McKenna, the development officer of the Moydrum Residents Association thanked Cllr Keena for his guidance, commitment and massive assistance in the successful completion of the scheme. Ciaran outlined future fundraising initiatives noting that a further 700 metres of footpath is envisaged for the second phase of the project.
Mr McKenna thanked committee members, Shane Lyons, Ronan Moore, Sharon Sheriff, and Michael Nugent for their efforts and emphasised that the project was a community effort.
To mark the community occasion, residents were entertained by local musicians Siun Lyons, Lilly O’Connor and Caithlin Dungan and food, teas, and coffees were also provided.
