Plaque is unveiled in memory of trail-blazing Mayo politician
Cllr Brendan Mulroy, Cathaoirleach of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, unveils the plaque in memory of the late Margaret Adams. Picture: Conor McKeown
On Thursday last, the Cathaorleach of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District Cllr Brendan Mulroy unveiled a plaque marking the naming of the Margaret Adams Gallery at Custom House Studios & Galley Westport.
Prior to Margaret's passing in February 2025 she served as Chairperson on the Board of the Custom House Studios Gallery from 2002 to 2025.
Margaret was first elected to Westport Urban District Council in 1974, which later became Westport Town Council and until she chose to retire forty years later, she never lost an election. She was elected as the first female chairperson of the Urban Council in 1983 and was re-elected to that role on three other occasions. She was also elected to Mayo County Council in 1999, which gave her a wider political remit to include the problems and concerns of her constituents in rural areas.
Margaret was defined by her profound commitment and relentless work in her community. During her forty years in politics, she availed of every opportunity to advocate for the betterment of Westport town and its environs
At the unveiling on Thursday last were Breege Staunton, Katriona Gillispie, Administrator, Custom House; Jacquline and Evelyn Horan, Cllr Mulroy, Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary, Cormac O Connaith, Pat Kenny and Deirdre Adams.
An anonymous art sale in memory of Margaret also took place with over 170 original artworks from artists throughout the area each priced at €50.
This was a fantastic opportunity for the community to support the work of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice, while also helping the Custom House Gallery celebrate Margaret’s extraordinary contribution to the arts in Westport.
