New council initiative to welcome Mayo diaspora home

A new initiative aimed at celebrating Mayo’s diaspora is being launched by Mayo County Council this month. The Clans of Mayo Homecoming will provide funding to groups and organisations setting up events that encourage the diaspora to come home to Mayo throughout 2026. Applicants are asked to build in a Mayo highlight to their event, whether this be a walk on the Great Western Greenway or a night of traditional music.

Speaking at a council policy meeting on Friday last, Mags Connell from the Communications Office said: “We want to see Mayo elevated and highlighted and to support our diaspora, to give back a little and say thank you for coming home.” She cited an example of 170 people booked in for an event in Westport next July who are coming from the UK, Scotland and Cleveland and who are promised a night in Matt Molloy’s as part of their itinerary.

Director of Services Catherine McConnell welcomed the new initiative, saying: “We will never lose sight of the importance of the diaspora to this county and will always keep the bonds of family and friendship alive. You are one of us, we stand with you and you are welcome here any time.”