Exciting Ballina development is greatly welcomed
Eamonn Walsh has welcomed the new centre for Ballina.
Members of the Moy Valley branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann (CCE) have welcomed the news that the old Garda Barracks on Walsh Street in Ballina is set to be developed into an arts and cultural centre for the town.
Local councillors recently signed off on plans to develop a new €7m cultural centre offering community spaces, artist studios, artist-in-residence apartments, a music suite, workshops, a courtyard and multi-purpose spaces.
Comhaltas had previously expressed an interest in turning the old Garda barracks into a cultural centre dedicated to Irish music and the activities of CCÉ in north Mayo. In May 2013, then Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works Brian Hayes visited the Walsh Street site and discussed the possibility with local CCÉ members.
All-Ireland Fleadh campaigner and PRO of the Moy Valley branch of CCÉ Eamonn Walsh said this was an exciting development for the town.
“I want to pay tribute to Declan Turnbull and the staff at the Ballina Municipal District along with local public representatives for their foresight in developing the Old Garda barracks into an arts and cultural centre which will be of huge benefit to all groups promoting the arts, heritage and culture in the region.”
Mr Walsh said Comhaltas would benefit from the opening of the centre in the near future.
“There are a number of Comhaltas branches including Irish language groups and a Gaelscoil in the town, who would benefit from the use of space in this community hub for traditional music, dance and Irish language classes.
“Cultural groups in the region do not have a fixed abode for traditional music classes and meetings.
Mr Walsh added that the addition of this cultural centre, along with the ongoing redevelopment of the former Sisters of Mercy Convent, will be of huge benefit in the ongoing campaign to bring the All-Ireland Fleadh back to Ballina.
