Local notes: Bridge replacement gets green light
At the official opening of Marian House, the Joe and Helen O'Toole Respite Home in Ballindine, were a number of local children who were delighted to meet RTÉ Late Late Show presenter Patrick Kielty who was a special guest on the day. Picture: Conor McKeown
After years of lobbying, Cllr Richard Finn has welcomed the approval of a long-awaited infrastructure project that will see the replacement of the Bekan Bridge on the N60 between Claremorris and Ballyhaunis.
The structure, long considered a blackspot due to its misaligned approaches and repeated collisions, will be replaced as part of a road realignment scheme proposed by Mayo County Council and supported by members of the Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District. Debris has reportedly fallen from the bridge on multiple occasions, prompting concern for motorists’ safety.
Councillors were informed that a public consultation on the project had received just one submission, from a local landowner. The concerns raised are being addressed as part of the planning process.
The council will now move to complete a technical approval process with Irish Rail. If funding is secured, construction could begin as early as next year, though 2027 has been given as the latest likely start date.
Cllr Finn, an Independent councillor, said the project had been under discussion for many years and that its approval marks a significant step forward for road safety in the area.
“Many people have come into contact with the parapet walls there,” he said. “The damage to vehicles has been considerable over time. This will make a real difference.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of officials who helped progress the scheme. “I have been pressing the TII and Mayo County Council for a resolution here for many years,” he said. “I want to thank Paul Dolan, Head of Roads; Conrad Harley, Area Engineer; Padraig Flanagan, Area Manager, and the engineers at Irish Rail for their work in getting the project to this stage.”
The planned works, detailed in a report from Senior Planner John McMyler, involve constructing a new rail overbridge and approximately 700 metres of road realignment. Both approaches to the bridge will be reconfigured to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. The existing sharp bends and frequently damaged vehicle restraint systems will be addressed through the redesign.
Aidan McGrath, a youth basketball player from Quincy, Massachusetts, has been selected to represent Ireland at the upcoming FIBA Under-16 European Championship in North Macedonia this August.
Aidan, who qualifies to play for Ireland under the heritage rule, has strong family ties to the Claremorris area. He is the grandson of Kevin and Ita McGrath of Koilmore, Claremorris and Quincy, Massachusetts.
A student at Thayer Academy, Aidan plays club basketball with Expressions Elite. He has represented Ireland previously, including at a tournament in Luxembourg earlier this summer. Standing at 6’7”, he plays primarily in the power forward position.
Aidan began playing basketball at the age of five and has received several Most Valuable Player awards in U.S. youth competitions.
His selection for the Ireland U16 men’s team has drawn interest from relatives and family friends in both Claremorris and Glenfarne, Co. Leitrim.
The Connacht Gold Mayo Senior Football Championship is set to get underway this August, with clubs across the county preparing for a series of competitive encounters. Here's a look at the key local fixtures across the groups.
Garrymore will begin their Group 1 campaign with a home clash against Crossmolina Deel Rovers on this Sunday, August 10 at 3pm in Garrymore. Round 2 sees them travel to Ballyhaunis on Friday, August 22 at 7pm.
In Group 3, Claremorris travel to Ballaghaderreen for their opening fixture on this Saturday, 9th August at 7pm. Two weeks later, they return to home soil to take on Ballintubber in Round 2, set for Saturday, August 23 at 4:30pm in Claremorris.
Group 4 action kicks off with Mayo Gaels travelling to Westport on this Saturday, August 9 at 5pm. They will then host Balla in Round 2 on Saturday, August 23 at 7pm — a key fixture that could shape the group’s outcome.
The Egan Jewellers Mayo Intermediate Football Championship is equally poised for action, with clubs looking to make early statements in their respective groups.
Davitts hit the road for their Group 3 opener against Islandeady on this Friday, August 8 at 7pm. They will then play at home in Ballindine when they face Parke-Keelogues-Crimlin in Round 2 on Friday, August 22 at 7pm – a crucial tie in their progression hopes.
Hollymount-Carramore travel to Louisburgh for their opening round on Saturday next, August 9 at 5pm. They are then scheduled to host Moy Davitts in Round 2 on Sunday, August 24 at 1pm. Interestingly, a second fixture on the same day will see Louisburgh and Hollymount square off again, adding to the intrigue and intensity of the group.
Group 3 of the 2025 Treanlaur Catering Mayo Junior ‘A’ Football Championship sees Eastern Gaels away to Achill on Sunday next, August 10 at 2pm in Achill. They will then enjoy home advantage in Round 2 when they welcome Swinford on Sunday, August 24 at 12:30pm.
The third round in each group will be played at a neutral venue, with details to be announced later.
Mayo Performance Academy will host its annual Summer Camp from August 18 to 22, offering children aged 4 to 13 the opportunity to take part in acting, dancing and singing.
Founded by June Allison in 2011, the Academy supports children of all abilities to build self-confidence and creativity through drama. June brings a background in counselling and drama education, and over a decade of experience in youth development.
For details or to register, contact June at june@mayoperformance.ie.
Claremorris Tidy Towns has launched the 2025 SuperValu Residents’ Estates Competition, now in its second year. Local estates can enter by emailing claremorristidytowns1@gmail.com. Judging will take place in September, with results to follow later that month.
Last year’s winners, Cluain Aoibhinn, set a high standard. Judging is based on criteria including tidiness, planting and biodiversity. The group thanks SuperValu Claremorris for its continued support.
Discussions are ongoing about expanding the competition to include roads and streets in future. A new insect information sign has also been installed at Clare Lake, developed with the Clare Lake Committee and supported by Pobal.
The Women’s Collective Claremorris is now accepting expressions of interest for its Women in Leadership Programme, beginning this September. This free, eight-week course provides participants with skills, confidence and networking opportunities aimed at encouraging greater community involvement.
Following a successful launch last year, organisers expect strong interest again. Early sign-up is recommended. For more information or to register, call 094-93-62096.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre has outlined a new calendar of community activities for all ages in the coming months.
The Friday Friends group for over 55s continues weekly from 2pm to 4pm, with tea and conversation in an informal setting. Booking is advised via 094-93-77838 or info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
Buggy Buddies also meets each Thursday at 9:30am at Lake Park, offering a chance for parents and carers to walk and chat with others.
In September, a Smartphone Masterclass will begin on Tuesday 9th and run for six weeks, 11am to 1pm. The course, covering mobile phone basics and features, costs €20 in total.
A new series of weekly community discussions under the title ‘Leave No One Behind: Community Creative Conversations’ begins Monday, September 8 from 12pm to 3pm. Open to all, the sessions aim to encourage inclusion and collaboration.
A children’s yoga programme, Zen PowerYoga for Children, starts Thursday, August 14 from 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Children are asked to bring a yoga mat and a warm blanket. For details, contact Laura on 083-0027345.
The FRC continues to offer practical support through its Period Poverty Support Programme and free school uniform scheme. Uniforms are available Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5pm.
Community and voluntary groups are reminded that meeting spaces can be booked at the Centre.
To enquire about any of the above, phone 094-93-77838 or email info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
Parents, guardians and grandparents of children with autism are invited to the Autism Parent Peer Support Group in Claremorris. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7pm in Cúram Family Centre.
The monthly meeting provides a space to talk, connect and share experiences with others. Tea is served and all are welcome.
Michael Gaughan from Mayo Abbey was the winner of Claremorris GAA Club’s 50/50 draw last week, taking home a prize of €870. Michael bought his winning ticket in Tesco. The club thanked everyone who entered and highlighted that all proceeds from the weekly draw go directly towards supporting club activities, training resources and ongoing development projects. Tickets remain available in local shops and pubs, and online each week.
Dylan Heneghan scooped €462 in last week’s Claremorris AFC 50/50 draw. Dylan bought his lucky ticket in Gilligan’s. The club extended sincere thanks to all who continue to take part in the weekly draw, noting that funds raised are vital for the upkeep of facilities and to support the many youth and adult teams at the club. Tickets are sold in local outlets and online.
The death has occurred of Seamus Devane of Knocknacarra, Galway and formerly of Hollybrook, Hollymount. Seamus died peacefully in Claremount Nursing Home, surrounded by his loving family.
Seamus was predeceased by his beloved wife Anne, his sister Gora, his parents Mary and Michael, and his grandson Cillian. Seamus will be deeply missed by his children and grandchildren, his sister Máire, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Seamus’s remains reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Tuesday evening, July 29, with removal to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Roundfort. Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday, July 30, followed by burial in Roundfort Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of James Henry (Harry) Davey of Brooklands, Sale and formerly of Knock, Co. Mayo. Harry died peacefully on July 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Harry was predeceased by his daughter Catherine and his sister Kathleen. Harry will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Freda, his children John, Mary, Patrick and Peter, his grandchildren Sarah, Michael, Thomas, James, Mark, Rachel and Kate, his brothers Joe (Knock) and Alo (UK), his nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Harry’s remains reposed at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock on Thursday evening, July 31. Funeral Mass took place in the Church of St. John the Baptist, Knock on Friday morning, followed by burial in Knock Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
