Mayo village celebrates milestones in community development
The lovely village of Belcarra has celebrated two significant milestones in its commitment to community development and volunteerism.
The event was marked by the official opening of a new mixed-use games area (MUGA), alongside an exhibition showcasing over 60 years of participation in the National Tidy Towns Competition.
The occasion began with the official opening of the MUGA, a much-anticipated addition to the village's already impressive array of amenities.
The MUGA, situated next to the existing playground and adjacent to the soon-to-be-completed sports field, represents a significant investment in the physical and social well-being of the community.
This new facility will provide residents, particularly young people, with a dedicated space for a variety of sports and recreational activities.
At the event, Fionnán Nestor, chairperson of Belcarra Community Council, spoke about the community's dedication to improving local amenities. Senator Lisa Chambers and Councillor Donna Sheridan, cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, also addressed the crowd, emphasising the importance of such developments in enhancing the quality of life in rural communities.
Minister Alan Dillon had the honour of officially opening the MUGA on behalf of Minister for Social Protection and Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys.
In his speech, Minister Dillon commended the collaborative efforts that made the MUGA possible, highlighting the critical support from a Clár grant, Mayo County Council, South West Mayo Development Company, and the unwavering dedication of local volunteers and elected representatives.
The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Councillors Al McDonnell, Ger Deere, Harry Barrett and Michael Kilcoyne, all of whom have been strong supporters of community initiatives in Belcarra and the surrounding area. Following the ribbon-cutting, Fr. Brendan Kilcoyne offered a blessing for the new facility.
After the MUGA's official opening, the event moved to Belcarra Community Centre where the community was celebrating over six decades of participation in the National Tidy Towns Competition, a testament to the village's longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and community pride.
An exhibition featuring photographs and documents chronicling the history of Belcarra's involvement in the Tidy Towns was on display, offering a nostalgic look back at the community's achievements and the tireless efforts of its volunteers.
Fionnán Nestor, chairperson of Belcarra Community Council, and Mary Prendergast, chairperson of Belcarra Tidy Towns Committee, both spoke at the event, reflecting on the village's journey and the invaluable contributions of its volunteers.
Minister Alan Dillon also spoke and presented a commemorative plaque to Pat Nestor, the longest-serving member of the Tidy Towns Committee, in recognition of his decades of service.