'Pumpkin politics' trumps major projects in Mayo county town - Barrett

"I am absolutely shocked that Castlebar councillors spent more time at this week's municipal district committee meeting discussing the vandalism of pumpkins down at Lough Lannagh than they did on any of the major projects that need to take place around this town."

That's according to local independent candidate, Harry Barrett.

Barrett was commenting on a baffling turn of events when elected representatives neglected any of the critical infrastructural developments that needs to progress the county town, only to engage in a debate on the peculiar subject of vandalised pumpkins.

He hit out: "Major infrastructural projects, such as the rejuvenation of the Imperial Hotel, refurbishments of the Military Barracks and the creation of a safe and efficient bus station along Stephen Garvey Way, were glaringly absent from the discussion table.

"With vital projects requiring immediate action and attention, the waffle on the relatively trivial matter of pumpkin vandalism signifies a dereliction of duty on the part of the council.

"What the hell is going on here?

"Castlebar, a town brimming with potential, is at risk of lagging behind due to the misplaced focus of its councillors.

"The town's growth and progress hinge on addressing pivotal infrastructural needs, yet the council's failure to prioritise these pressing matters threatens to impede Castlebar's revival.

"I have put forward five projects that need addressing and none of them were seriously addressed at that meeting.

"It's essential for the council and councillors to refocus its energies on what truly matters.

"The people deserve a council devoted to championing the town's growth and prosperity, not one sidetracked by the daft mysteries of pumpkin disposals."