Breaffy welcomes 2024 with party for its new residents

Over 400 people from 15 nationalities, as well as 40 locals, were at the New Year's Party for international protection applicants at Breaffy House Hotel on January 2.

The preparation for the party was facilitated by Breaffy Community Council and planned by the international protection committee.

The party was made up of international protection applicants which include men, women and children as well as members of the local community and local elected representatives.

The food and music were a reflection of the multinational attendance. All music was a mix from various international protection and Ukrainian countries, while traditional Irish music was also played. The music activities for the adults and children were all co-ordinated by Breaffy’s Julianne Hennelly and the food was prepared by Breaffy House Hotel, with all the children getting popcorn and sweets. Some of the kids who sang in the event also sang Irish music which was taught by Julianne.

“It was a great day,” said Breaffy Community Council chairman MJ Reddington. “The Irish people there were talking to them, dancing with them and they were really humbled by them. It was a great afternoon.

“We’ve learned so much from these people, about their history and the issues they’re having. They’re really nice and good people. Once you start engaging with them, they’re humble and they’re here for a reason.

“It’s our duty in our community, and I say that as chairman of the Community Council, to ensure that while they’re here, that we act charitably towards them and treat them like we would anybody else.

“When you engage with them, it’s an incredible experience. Around 40 people came from the community, they were absolutely enthralled by it. It was one of the best exercises we ever had.

“Different nationalities and different cultures were all there and they integrated very well.” 

Mr Reddington was critical of a ‘minority’ who are attempting to frame what’s going on in Mayo and around the country differently.

“You’ve got to engage with them. There’s a lot of shite that goes on and they’re a minority. The vast majority of people should know about what’s going on.

“These people who come here, their stories are so humbling. They’re not here because they want to be here, they’re here because they have to be here. When you engage with them, they’re more than generous.” 

Mr Reddington went on to thank the local community and all involved in the organising of the party and he hopes that more events will happen in the future.

“We want to plan more of this as we go on and we will do that.”