Local TD 'proud' to open new sensory garden in Mayo

On Monday, October 6 Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD, officially opened a new sensory garden in Burrishoole.

Speaking at the event, Minister Dillon said that the sensory park will be a lasting legacy for the Burrishoole community. 

“It’s a space that welcomes everyone, from children to older people, and especially those with additional needs. I’m proud to have supported this initiative and to see the incredible work of local volunteers come to life.”

Representatives from the Oireachtas, Mayo County Council, the local community, and students from the local Newport National School attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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The garden marks the third of five key objectives set out by the Burrishoole Community Partnership, which has already delivered a community pitch and a community centre.

Minister Dillon, who assisted in securing funding for the project, praised the leadership of all committee members for their dedication to community development.

The garden was designed with input from Owen Browne,  Principal of the local National School, and teacher Sinead English. Special thanks were extended to David Holmes, a local contractor who began work on the garden’s drainage and layout in October 2024.

Minister Dillon also acknowledged the efforts of the Tidy Towns Committee, local volunteers, and members of the Ukrainian community, who came together in spring and early summer to plant trees, flowers, and shrubs.