Mayo fans urged to stay away from street vendors and 'buy local'
Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Cllr Ger Deere asks Mayo GAA fans to buy merchandise from local businesses
A MAYO councillor has urged Mayo GAA supporters to 'buy local' ahead of Sunday's All-Ireland final rather than buy from vendors on street corners.
Mayo's unexpected appearance in the All-Ireland senior football final has resulted in a surge of supporters looking to buy all sorts of merchandise ahead of Sunday's showdown with Kerry.
This has prompted the Cathaoirleach of the Castlebar Municipal District, Cllr Ger Deere to ask supporters to support local businesses in the lead up to the final. He encouraged fans in towns and villages throughout Mayo to support local businesses selling Mayo merchandise, rather than purchasing from outside vendors operating on street corners in the days before the match.
“Our local shops and businesses support clubs, community councils, and organisations all year round,” Cllr Deere said. “They pay their rates, they contribute to our communities, and they are always there when we need sponsorship or assistance. It’s only right that we support them now, when demand for Mayo colours is at its highest.”
While acknowledging that street traders can add to the match-day atmosphere, Cllr Deere stressed that they “do nothing to support our local economy or the businesses who stand behind our communities week in, week out.”
He encouraged supporters to purchase their Mayo merchandise from established premises and local retailers, ensuring that the economic benefit of the All-Ireland build-up stays within Mayo.
“Let’s back our team, and our local businesses, together,” added the Fine Gael councillor.