Mayo town hopes to be named Volunteer Capital of Europe
Volunteers from the local Ballina Community Clean-up Group taking part in a tree planting ceremony in Mount Falcon Estate last October, from left: Damien Barrett, Arlene Walsh and Martin Devaney. Picture: John O'Grady
Ballina is to apply to become the Volunteer Capital of Europe in 2026.
Head of the Ballina Municipal District Declan Turnbull told councillors at last week's municipal district meeting that the council had been approached about applying for the European Volunteer Capital Programme. Mr Turnbull outlined the benefits the designation would have for the area.
"If successful, it would give us a chance to highlight volunteers in Ballina. It would have benefits in terms of tourism and a conference would be taking place as well.
"It is a great idea and Ballina is the only Irish candidate to be put forward for 2026."
Cllr Jarlath Munnelly said this initiative would be a good follow-up to the success of Ballina 2023.
"This is an exciting opportunity for Ballina, and to build on the success of Ballina 2023 which was successful because of volunteer assistance. So much here is down to volunteerism and this is something we should all support."
Cllr Mark Duffy said this was a great initiative, adding: "2023 is an incredible example of volunteer and Meitheal spirit and volunteers are the bedrock of every village and town in our municipal district. To have that highlighted would be exciting."
Cllr Annie May Reape said she supported the proposal and added that Ballina had a good chance of being selected.
Cllr Michael Loftus, who is also chair of the Mayo Sports Partnership, said the recent Mini-Marathon was another good example of the North Mayo volunteer spirit.
"North Mayo is a great place for volunteers and this has been proven over the years, just look at the festivals we've held, it's all been done by volunteers.
"This year's Mini-Marathon was one of the best with over 2,000 entrants and 800 children taking part and it was all thanks to volunteers. I think we would have a chance of getting picked for this."
Cllr Seamus Weir said Ballina would be 'well capable' of being the Volunteer Capital of Europe and encouraged the proposal.
Mr Turnbull said he will consult with local volunteer groups, the Mayo Public Participation Network and Mayo Volunteer Centre about submitting an application. In 2017, Sligo was Europe's Volunteer Capital.
