Tug-of war over hosting of Mayo Day in 2024

by Caoimhín Rowland

Mayo Day made the rare move north this year to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Ballina.

An all round success of a weekend that will love long in the memory of all who attended.

Ballina has been on a high in recent weeks, welcoming US President Joe Biden, preparing for the biggest salmon festival on record and playing hosts to the women's mini marathon.

Fianna Fáil Councillor Annie May Reape spoke at this week's county council meeting about her hopes of Mayo Day 2024 making a splash along the banks of the river Moy for a second consecutive year.

However, Erris-based Fianna Fáil Councillor Séan Carey suggested Belmullet should play hosts next year to what is swiftly becoming one of the most coveted days on the Mayo calendar.

The coastal town is set to celebrate its 200th anniversary since its inception next year and the awarding of Mayo Day to celebrate Ballina's birthday this year has set a precedent.

A political tug-of war for who claims the May bank holiday event in 12 months time will be unlikely to cause a rift within the Fianna Fáil party.

The destination of Mayo Day 2024 is certainly one to keep an eye on.