Tourism chief wants to see “Mayo jerseys” on the course at the Ryder Cup

The new Director of Services for Tourism with Mayo County Council said he wants to get people on the golf course “wearing that Mayo jersey” at the 2027 Ryder Cup to help promote the county.

Tom Gilligan, whose Council portfolio shifted from Roads and Housing to Tourism, Community, Integration and Leisure as part of recent management changes, told the Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District meeting he has flagged the Ryder Cup, being held at Adare Manor in Limerick next year, as a means to promote Mayo's tourism offering.

“With my Tourism hat on I have been speaking with colleagues in Limerick about the Ryder Cup and how Mayo can benefit from the off spill of that,” he said.

“We want to work with Failte Ireland on this and build a strong digital campaign. The eyes of world will be on the event and we want to get people on the golf course wearing that Mayo jersey.”

Mr Gilligan said he is excited to take on his new role.

“I love it too much so to me, it is never work. I love it so much and I’m looking forward to this new brief because I have always been community focused," said Mr Gilligan.

Councillors in the MD thanked Mr Gilligan for his work in his previous role and welcomed him to his new post.

“Since you arrived, great work has been done,” said Cllr Richard Finn.

“I can’t say it was an easy ride and we had to deal with a lot in the heel of the hunt but there were some severe circumstances at times and a lot thrown up that we were all not prepared for.”

"I don't know how anyone could operate Roads and Housing together. I don't care if you were God, no could solve all of those problems," added Cllr Finn.

“I want to thank you for all the work that has been done and wish you luck in your new portfolio,” said Cllr Adrian Forkan, who added that he hopes Mr Gilligan can “tap in” to Mayo’s strong diaspora network in his new role helping to promote the county's tourism offering.