Bonfire campaigner presents cake to town council

Westport community bonfire campaigner presents cake to town council


Neill O’Neill

THE year-old debate about a heritage bonfire in Westport was address at the council’s last business meeting last week, after community bonfire campaigner, Michael Kelly presented the council with a cake, with a chocolate bonfire and the motto ‘keep her lit’ on top.
The sweetness of the cake was symbolic of the sweetness of ‘our heritage and those who fought hard to obtain it’, according to Kelly, who has been aiming to hold a traditional bonfire on The Fairgreen in Westport last year.
His plans did not materialise, with an issue over insurance and the location arising between the council and the organisers. In recent weeks, Mr Kelly has again been bringing his proposals to attention.
Councillors were widely approving of a heritage bonfire last week, and thanked Mr Kelly for the cake.
Councillor Martin Keane outlined the erosion of local and national traditions, and said it would be a nice legacy to have a bonfire on St John’s night in June.
He asked for the ‘red tape to be cut out’.
Cllr Ollie Gannon, who was Cathaoirleach last year when the bonfire campaign was in full flight, agreed with Cllr Keane, and noted Michel Kelly’s passion and dedication to the idea.
He also commended Town Manager Martin Keating for the lengths he went to last year to get the insurance matter resolved and said he hoped the bonfire would happen in the future.
This was echoed by Cllr Myles Staunton, who said he admired Mr Kelly’s enthusiasm and focus on the issue, while councillors Michael McLaughlin, Tereasa McGuire, Christy Hyland and Brendan Mulroy, all commented positively on the community bonfire idea.