The gravy train can’t continue…

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Since I left the Dáil in 2002 I have been loathe to condemn the pay and perks of politicians. This reluctance was based on inside knowledge of life as a public representative.

Instead of job security, they are permanently vulnerable to the whim of the electorate. Unsocial hours and endless availability to the public take a real toll on personal and family life. People don’t go into politics to make money.

McHale welcomes €31.1 million investment in Mayo roads

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Claremorris Fianna Fáil candidate Gerard McHale has welcomed the announcement of the Government’s investment of €31.1 million in Mayo roads under the regional and local roads programme in 2009.

Maloney welcomes Community Futures Action Plan for Foxford

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Last week confirmation was received by Councillor Jimmy Maloney that Foxford, through Foxford Development Association, has been successful in its application to Mayo County Community Forum for a Community Futures Action Plan.

Barrett calls for jobs stimulus plan

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Labour candidate Harry Barrett has said a jobs stimulus plan for Mayo is imperative to avoid sleepwalking into a serious jobs crisis. He has said job creation through a stimulus plan should be put to the top of the political agenda.

FF candidates can run but they can’t hide

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

It’s politics as usual for Fianna Fáil in Westport with the sudden renewed interest by Westport’s Fianna Fáil representatives in local issues such as the N5 and the promised, but not delivered schools, such as Westport’s Gaelscoil, has everything to do with the upcoming local elections and little to do with genuine efforts to actually do anything.

In a business where perception is reality it is vital in the run up to the June elections that FF councillors and their TDs be seen to be doing something; this is far more important than actually doing something.

Cutbacks in opening hours at Mayo railway station offices not acceptable

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Fears have been expressed that cutbacks in the opening hours at Iarnród Éireann booking offices at railway stations in County Mayo are to be implemented. This has been highlighted by the Fine Gael spokesperson on Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Michael Ring.

Claremorris in good position to face difficult times - McHugh

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

At a recent Fianna Fáil meeting in Claremorris Councillor Pat McHugh stated that Claremorris is in a good position to face difficult times.

New Gaeltacht roads scheme to benefit Achill

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Éamon Ó Cuív TD Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, has announced a new Gaeltacht scheme called Scéim Bóithre Pobail (Community Roads Scheme) which is set to benefit Achill.

World School Games 2009 Cleveland

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

The World School Games will be held in Clevland, Ohio, this summer. If any schools in Mayo wish to participate they are asked to contact the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Councillor Joe Mellett for further details.

Museum moments

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Are you mad about meteorites? Visit the Museum of Ireland Country Life Turlough on Wednesday February 11 from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Join Matthew Parkes, the museum’s geologist on a journey back to the beginning of the solar system.

Special Olympics campaign in Castlebar

Fri, Feb 06, 2009

Special Olympics Ireland has launched its 2009 fundraising campaign with a fundraising office set up to support and co-ordinate the campaign in Castlebar. The office is located in the building which used to be known as the Bargain Centre.