Ballina Beverages recognised by parade

Ballina Beverages recognised by parade group


Anna Marie Flynn

Ballina Beverages has been chosen to lead the St Patrick’s Day Parade in the town – marking the company’s tenth anniversary in Mayo.
At the February meeting of Ballina Town Council, Cllr Johnnie O’Malley told the members that plans are now in full swing for the March 17th parade, and in keeping with the recognition of local community and business groups as part of the festivities over the last number of years, the Coca-Cola plant was chosen ‘for its outstanding contribution to the town’.
“Last year Bonniconlon Show led the parade as they celebrated 60 years in existence and were nationally recognised after winning a Meitheal Award, and this year marks the turn of Ballina Beverages who have just celebrated a decade in the town. Coca Cola itself marks its 150th birthday so it is significant that the company would be recognised now,” he said.
Mayor Frances McAndrew welcomed the move. “I am delighted that Coca Cola will be recognised at a local level in this way. As a company Ballina Beverages has carried out a huge amount of work for the local community since it opened ten years ago and I wish it continued success in the town.”
Cllr Gerry Ginty echoed the praise and said the parade was ‘significant’ in the life of the town and community. “It is a very important annual event which would not be possible without a huge voluntary effort from many people who get involved year after year,” he said.
This year’s parade will celebrate the importance of salmon to the north Mayo town, also marketed as the salmon capital of Ireland.
As part of the funding for the 2011 parade, elected councillors agreed to contribute €5,000 from Ballina Town Council. The funding was proposed by Cllr Barry McLoughlin and seconded by Cllr Mark Winters.