Mayo town shows solidarity with Ukraine on fourth anniversary of Russian invasion

A large crowd gathered outside St Mary’s Church today (February 24) in Westport in a show of solidarity with Ukraine, four years to the day that the country was invaded by Russian troops.

Following the outdoor gathering, attendees moved into the church for a prayer service, which was followed by a tea gathering.

Figures from early 2024 estimated that 1,103 Ukrainians are living in the Westport electoral area. These figures reflect those who arrived in the aftermath of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

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Speaking to The Mayo News at the event, Oksana Konoval expressed the importance of remembrance.

“Today marks four years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, 12 years of war, and 300 years of resistance. It’s heartbreaking,” she said.

“We have been living in Westport for four years, and it has been incredibly welcoming. We are very happy to be here, alongside the Irish people, integrating our children, and building our lives and careers here. It is a safe life,” she added.

Members of Westport Welcomes Ukraine, a volunteer-led community organisation supporting Ukrainian refugees in the area, were also in attendance.

Pictured are Judy Casey, Mary O'Malley Graham and June Bourke at the event in Westport

Mary O’Malley Graham, who co-founded the group when the first Ukrainians arrived in Westport, described how the initiative began.

“We started by putting together a small information pack with details about local schools, churches and community groups, including GAA, soccer and rugby clubs, outlining what was available in the town,” she said.

“Word quickly spread, and more people wanted to help. The business community quietly asked what was needed. One gentleman arranged WiFi in the community centre so families could stay in touch with loved ones. A nearby hotel offered shower facilities, as there were none available at the time. There was tremendous support.”

Mary also highlighted the positive contribution of the Ukrainian community to the town.

“Many Ukrainians are now renting privately and working locally - in SuperValu, restaurants, schools, hotels and the Leisure Centre. Some are employed as beauticians, special needs assistants and cleaners. They are contributing right across the town.”

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