Council staff lead by example

Council staff lead by example


Rowan Gallagher

All staff in Mayo local authorities were encouraged to leave the car at home and make alternative arrangements to travel to work yesterday Monday, July 12.
The initiative was proposed at a council meeting earlier this year by Cllr Joe Mellett who aims to highlight the importance of physical activity in daily working life, awareness of road safety and general health and well-being of local authority employees.
The idea has the backing of management, councillors, Mayo Sports Partnership, Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons, Walking Officer Anna Connor and Iompar Mhuigheo amongst others.
In 2009 a similar day took place when local councillors and some management took alternative transport to their monthly meeting with Cllr Mellett cycling from Swinford to Castlebar.
“We would hope to make this an annual event amongst all staff in Mayo Local Authorities. It will also give people who have availed of the Cycle to Work Scheme an opportunity to get out and put their wheels in motion,” said Cllr Mellett.
Along with initiatives such as smarter travel and sustainable transport it has certainly raised the profile of alternative methods of movement.
“The move to smarter travel is something which makes a lot of sense for the environment and for our quality of life. Mayo Co Council would encourage everyone to partake in the day in whatever way they can. This is certainly one activity where everyone who takes part is a winner,” said Co. Manager Peter Hynes.
Local Authority staff who participate on the day will be invited to enter into a draw for a free bicycle to the value of €300. Several other prizes such as vouchers for sports gear, outdoor wear will also be included. Staff will be asked to submit details about their participation to Mayo Sports Partnership in a post event evaluation.