Westport Labour

On-street parking charges "death knell" for small shops

2011-01-29T22:20:00.001Z

According to Labour Councillor Keith Martin on-street parking charges in Westport could sound the "death knell" for small shops in Westport town centre as Cllr Martin claims the new charge will encourage shoppers to use larger supermarkets such as Tesco and Supervalu which are able to offer free parking.

Cllr Martin continues "If we bring in on-street parking charges we end up penalising small businesses within the town core as we effectively encourage shoppers to avail of free parking elsewhere in Westport or even Castlebar.

"There is absolutely no point in reducing rates and then making it more expensive to shop in Westport town core. Grocery, butchers, florists and clothes shops are already finding it hard enough to keep their doors open without Westport Town Council driving away customers through an opportunistic parking charge.

"Car parking charges drive everybody mad, as on top of been charged a fortune for petrol, car tax, insurance and other car running cost, you also have to pay for the privilege to stop driving your car and park it somewhere! The car is a necessity in the west of Ireland where public transport is practically non-existent.

"In addition to this in order to bring in on-street parking charges they would have to place horrible plastic green ticket machines up and down our streets, taking away from Westport's beauty as a Heritage and Tidy Town.

"I shall be calling on Fine Gael and Cllr Martin Keane to vote against the bylaws when they come before the council later in the spring. It's time we shouted STOP!"

On-Street Parking By-laws may be defeated - Martin

2011-01-29T12:17:00.000Z

Attempts to bring in a "trial" of on-street parking in Westport for six months of the year are likely to fail according to Labour councillor Keith Martin.

Cllr Martin says he does not think that the proposal has the support of the majority of Westport Town Council, which is required in order to pass the necessary by-laws later in the year.

In early January, Westport Town Council voted to adopt a provision of €150,000 in its 2011 budget. A motion by Cllr Brendan Mulroy, supported by Cllr Martin, to defer any provision for on-street parking till after a traffic meeting to discuss the measures had been held was defeated by a 6-2 vote when the five Fine Gael councillors and Cllr Martin Keane backed the inclusion of the parking charges in the budget

This means as Westport Town Council has already struck a rate, that if the by-laws are not passed Westport Town Council will have to cut up to cut an additional €150,000 from its 2011 budget.

According to Cllr Martin "Cllr Mulroy and I have been very strong on this issue from the beginning; we are opposed to the introduction of on-street parking charges in Westport. We wanted a proper public debate on the issue before adopting the budget but we were voted down.

"Despite the fact that all the Fine Gael councillors and independent Cllr Martin Keane backed the budget provision for €150,000 in on-street parking charges I don't think they will back the parking by-laws as quickly."

Cowley on Hospital Stores

2010-11-17T18:04:00.001Z

Report of November Meeting of the Labour Party in Westport

2010-11-17T18:01:00.001Z

The November meeting of the Westport Branch of the Labour Party was well attended and dealt with issues ranging from recruitment and funding through to Jerry Cowley's campaign for a Dail seat.

The Branch heard of the great success of the Branch's recent annual church gate collection and a vote of thanks was extended to those who gave so generously at St Mary's and Holy Trinity churches.

A report on the Branch's finances was circulated by the Treasurer as was details of the up-coming West Mayo church gate collections.

The Branch voted to hold a Christmas Party for its members, friends and supporters and for the supporters of Cllrs Keith Martin, Harry Barrett and Dr Jerry Cowley. Details of the party will be finalised at the December meeting.

The Branch also voted a motion of sympathy in remembrance of Michael Joe Lavelle RIP the former President of the Branch and long-time Labour Party member and activist in the Westport Branch. Sympathy was expressed to the Lavelle family on the anniversary of their loss.

A report on Dr Cowley's campaign was given to the branch on the success of the current canvass and on the warm response Dr Cowley was receiving. Addressing the Branch Dr Cowley expressed his determination to win a seat for Labour in Mayo. Dr Cowley underlined his commitment to the development of Mayo General Hospital and his commitment to helping the young, elderly and less well off in Mayo.

The Branch resolved to undertake an on-street recruitment day in Westport during the month of November to ensure that those interested in the party could play an active role in seeking a change of government and electing a Labour TD in Mayo.

The Branch also resolved to ensure that voters were registered to vote and members will be encouraging voters to ensure their names on are on the current electoral register.

The next meeting of the Labour Party in Westport takes place on Tuesday December 7^th at 8pm in the Wyatt Hotel. Anyone interested in joining the Labour Party is very welcome to attend. Membership forms are available from 086 0691182.

Centre of excellence at Mayo General Hospital under threat -"no logic" to decommissioning a department that has saved the HSE money" says Dr Jerry Cowley

2010-11-04T12:27:00.001Z

Dr Jerry Cowley, Labour party general election candidate for Mayo is calling on the HSE not to downgrade the successful Stores Department at Mayo General Hospital.Dr Cowley visited the department on Wednesday, 3rd November to meet with staff on their concerns around the reorganisation of the service. It may mean that a service that saved over € 2.8 million for the HSE in Mayo General Hospital in the past year, is decommissioned. It is agreed by all that changes in the health service are necessary but Mayo General Hospital Stores Department is the most efficient in the Country presently.

Dr Cowley " I was extremely impressed by the commitment and professionalism of the staff of the stores department at Mayo General Hospital. This is confirmed by their nomination for a series of awards in recognition of their excellence. I cannot see any basis for downgrading a successful local unit, recognized nationally as a centre of excellence, based on arbitrary geographical factors as opposed to an analysis of the actual capabilities of the unit itself. There is no logic to this proposal which will cost several million of lost revenue to Mayo local suppliers. It also means that an unacceptable patient risk will come into play as no stock will be held on site at Mayo, but will have to come from Sligo or Galway in the event of an emergency situation. Considerable concerns have already been raised in the hospital concerning this ."

Staff informed Dr Cowley that their success in cutting costs on supplies for the Hospital is now being used as the model for the HSE throughout the country. It now seems that the 28 members of the team that has delivered this centre of excellence will be broken up and disbanded. Sligo and Galway are likely to be chosen as the new centralised stores areas and Mayo would lose out as a result.

Dr Cowley said he will be asking the parties health spokesperson to raise the matter with the Minister for Health at the first available opportunity in the Dail. He added "I call on all other public representatives in the county to join me to ensure that Mayo General Hospitals stores department is protected. If it can't be maintained in Castlebar, the HSE should consider using a central town in Connaught, Claremorris for example, as a base for any new centralised stores for the counties involved which include Galway, Sligo and Roscommon. This could also facilitate the retention of the excellent staff I met today in the county, serving the needs of the health service in the region as a whole. If properly managed this could mean 70 to 80 jobs for the Claremorris area."

Labour unveil policies and candidates for Westport, Mayo and Europe!

2009-04-15T16:08:00.001Z

Labour unveil policies and candidates for Westport, Mayo and Europe

The Labour party will unveil its town, county and Euro candidates and their policies at a special public meeting tonight (Tuesday April 21st) in the Wyatt Hotel in Westport at 7.30pm.

The Special guest will be Susan O'Keefe, the Labour Party candidate for the North-West constituency for the forthcoming European Parliament Elections. Susan is the journalist who broke the story on a World in Action programme on the Irish Beef Industry which led to the formation of a Tribunal of Inquiry.

Susan O'Keefe says her "core beliefs of equality and fairness have driven all the work I have done as a journalist. By joining the Labour Party I will be able to direct these values towards building a more honest political system which favours, not just the brave, but the weak, the poor and the old. I want to contribute to building a fairer Ireland and a fairer Europe where working together means just that."

Announcing Susan's candidacy for the European elections, Eamon Gilmore TD said "Susan O'Keeffe is a person of the highest integrity and remarkable courage with an outstanding record as a campaigning journalist."

Prior to the public meeting Susan O'Keefe will be meeting the people of Westport during the afternoon, when she will have the opportunity of listening to the views and opinions of the people of Mayo on the EU and it's importance and relevance to the further development of the West of Ireland.

Labour's second candidate for Westport Town Council David Fallon will also outline Labour's Policies for Westport Town Council while Cllr Keith Martin will outline his priorities for the Westport Electoral Area.

According to Chair of the Westport Branch of the Labour Mr Sean Sammon, Labour's priorities are "Jobs, jobs, jobs."

www.thingscanonlygetbetter.ie

086 0691182

098 24852

Join the Party, join the Labour Party!

2009-03-05T17:05:00.001Z

Join the Labour Party

The Labour Party is hosting a recruitment evening in the Bakehouse Rooms of Henehan's Bar on Bridge Street tonight March 10^th at 8pm. This is part of a nationwide recruitment drive by Party Leader Eamon Gilmore.

Membership of the party is open to all according to Chairman of the Mayo Labour Party, Sean Sammon. "The Labour Party is the hardest working party in Mayo and we are gearing up for the upcoming local elections and are looking forward to our Party Conference at the end of March. The Labour Party, in Mayo and nationally, is going from strength to strength and we are now inviting those people in Mayo who want to make a difference to join us and help us get Mayo moving again.

"Anyone interested in joining the Labour is invited to come along tonight and have a chat and a cup of tea with us. For more information on the Labour Party in Mayo call us on 098 24852 or visit www.labour.ie"

Letter to the editor

2009-01-21T16:28:00.001Z

Dear Editor,

The salaries of Brian Cowen and his Ministers should be linked by a simple formula to both the average national wage and the unemployment register, so that when the nation suffers our leaders feel our pain; and not just at the polling booth, but in their pockets, where it really hurts!

Yours sincerely

Cllr Keith Martin

33 Pairc na Coille

Westport

Co. Mayo

www.councillorkeithmartin.com

086 0691182 m

098 24852 w

098 25747 w

Background to vote

2008-06-26T07:05:00.001Z

The price of Fianna Fail's support for Martin Keane for Cathaoirleach was that Labour's Cllr Keith Martin relinquish his claim to the position of Leas Cathaoirleach in favour of Cllr Brendan Mulroy who has been Cathaoirleach once and Leas Cathaoirleach once already in the current term of the council.

This was done to give FF some cover with its supporters and to remove the possibility of Cllr Martin raising his profile before and during next year's Local Elections where Cllr Martin is competing against FF's Margaret Adams and possibly Declan Dever.

Keith Martin has worked closely with Cllr Keane since the 2004 elections and believes that he did the right thing in ensuring Cllr Keane's election to the chair even though it has hurt Cllr Martin's chances in 2009.

Cllr Martin and Cllr Adams are the only two councillors to not have held either office of Cathaoirleach or Leas Cathaoirleach in the current council.

Boundry Changes in Westport

2008-06-18T00:19:00.001Z

Cllr Keith Martin, the Labour Party's candidate for the Westport Electoral Area, says he is shocked at the decision of the Electoral Area Boundary Committee to remove Newport East and its 1,021 citizens from the Westport Electoral Area and include them in the Belmullet area. Cllr Martin says the area is being transfered from Westport to ensure that Belmullet keeps its four seats on Mayo County Council.

Cllr Martin says "There has always been a strong connection between the townlands of Newport and Westport and to see Newport East sliced off into the administration of the Belmullet Electoral Area makes no sense in my opinion. The Westport Electoral area still includes Glenhest but geographically it is very distorted with the removal of Newport East.

"It would have made more sense to have a greater trade off between the Belmullet and Ballina Electoral Areas which are closer to each other than to move Newport East into Belmullet."

The review was approved by Cabinet on Tuesday June 17th as part of the national Independent review of the boundaries for next year's local elections. The review committees, which were established in January by the Minister for the Environment, were both chaired by Niall Callan, a former Secretary General of the Department.

"I am shocked at such a large chunk of the Westport Electoral Area with close connections to Westport can just be cut off to accommodate the retention of Belmullet's four seats. It makes no sense to distort the Westport Electoral Area and remove Newport East" concluded the Labour councillor.

086 0691182

Next Meeting

2008-06-05T14:41:00.001Z

The Next meeting of the Westport Branch of the Labour Party takes place on Tuesday July 1st 2008 at 8pm in the Bakehouse Room of Henehans Bar on Bridge Street

Call for allotments for Westport

2008-06-05T14:38:00.001Z

Cllr Keith Martin has called for the provision of allotments under the new Town Plan. The Labour councillor has made a submission that Westport Town Council acquire agricultural land for the purpose of providing allotments to citizens of the town to allow them to grow vegetables, fruits and flowers.

According to Cllr Martin "This would allow citizens to develop sustainable and local foods for their own consumption and allow for food security and the combating of climate change through greater self-sufficiency. Allotments are also a logical response to recent food price inflation."

The Office International du Coin de Terre et des Jardins Familiaux (OICTJF), a Luxembourg-based organization representing three million European allotment gardeners since 1926, says allotments allow a better quality of urban life through the reduction of noise, the binding of dust, the establishment of open green spaces in densely populated areas and provide meaningful leisure activity and the personal experience of sowing, growing, cultivating and harvesting healthy vegetables amidst high-rise buildings and the urban jungle.

Other benefits according to the OICTJF are
for children and adolescents a place to play, communicate and to discover nature and its wonders;
for working people relaxation from the stress of work;
for the unemployed the feeling of being useful and not excluded as well as a supply of fresh vegetables at minimum cost;
for immigrant families a possibility of communication and better integration in their host country;
for disabled persons a place enabling them to participate in social life, to establish contacts and overcome loneliness;
for senior citizens a place of communication with persons having the same interests as well as an opportunity of self-fulfillment during the period of retirement.

Cllr Martin says the necessary lands can be acquired from landowners but if necessary the council has the power to compulsorily purchase land for allotments under the Acquisition of Land (Allotments) Act, 1926.

Fingal County Council currently offer allotments measuring one tenth of an acre, for domestic use only for €19.00 p.a. Other councils offering allotments include South Dublin County Council, Galway City Council and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

According to Cllr Martin "allotments would be ideal in Westport because of the large number of flats and apartments without any gardens and the number of houses with tiny gardens would mean that there is a large number of people who would welcome the opportunity to grow their own vegetables.

"But allotments are about so much more than growing your own food or flowers, allotments are also about exercise, teaching children about growth and nature, social interaction with neighbours and getting out of the apartment and having your own small bit of outdoor space on the ground.

"We should also provide, as part to the allotments project, an area for a community garden along the lines of the very successful one on the Golf Course Road. Community gardens allow groups and communities to work as a team on a large garden and share the proceeds of that work as well as to enjoy the camaraderie and social aspect of building a community garden. Community gardening is a well established movement worldwide and it is gaining popularity in Ireland with other community gardens in Dublin, Cork and Galway.

"I will be working on Westport Town Council to promote this proposal and I will fight to ensure that provision is made in our new Town Plan for allotments and a community garden."

Westport Labour "labouring" hard for YES vote on Thursday

2008-06-04T22:19:00.001Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party has proved to be one of the most active party machines in the promotion of a Yes vote on Thursday June 12th. To date the Branch has arranged the distribution of 4,000 leaflets and has erected 150 posters in south-west Mayo. The party has also hosted a walkabout by Labour's MEP Proinsias De Rossa in Westport.

At the front of this campaign has been Labour's Cllr Keith Martin, the 33 year-old librarian, who was selected earlier in the year as a candidate for next year's County Council elections. While other public representatives have been very shy about backing the YES vote Cllr Martin has been to the forefront of the campaign.

According to Cllr Martin "Lisbon is not about surrendering sovereignty but is about ensuring that the EU is run more fairly, efficiently and democratically. This should be clear to anyone who has taken the time to read the independent booklet from the Referendum Commission which has been delivered to every address in the country.

"I think it is important to remember who is opposed to the Lisbon Treaty, i.e. Sinn Fein, Youth Defence and Libertas. This unlikely coalition do not even share a common interest never mind the public's best interest. On the other hand Labour, Fine Gael, Fianna Fail, Progressive Democrats, ICTU, IBEC and the IFA are all calling for a YES vote.

"If we want to guarantee that we have the same power in Commissioners as large countries like the UK, France and Germany we must vote YES, If we want to guarantee basic rights to all citizens throughout the 27 EU countries we must vote YES, if we want our Government to have the power and prestige to fight our corner in Europe, the WTO and the EU we must vote YES.

"Ireland's future lies not in splendid isolation, but in partnership with our European neighbours. The Lisbon Treaty is about strengthening and regulating that relationship. We must vote YES"

2008-05-30T15:10:00.000Z

Labour’s May Branch Report

The Westport Branch held its May meeting in the Bakehouse room of Henehan’s Bar on Bridge Street to discuss its role in the upcoming Lisbon Treaty.

The meeting was chaired by Sean Sammon who outlined the fact that Branch had commemorated the work of Michael Davitt as part of the party’s May Day celebrations.

The meeting also dealt with the logistics of the Lisbon Treaty and the distribution of leaflets and posters throughout the southwest of Mayo.

It was agreed that there would be a rota for members’ duties over the six weeks of the campaign to deliver 4,000 leaflets and erect 150 posters as well as on street and phone/text campaigning.

The meeting also discussed the upcoming meeting of the Party’s 21st Century Commission to discuss the future of the Labour Party in the coming century. It was decided to send four delegates to the meeting to outline the branch’s concerns and thoughts.

The upcoming Tom Johnson Summer school was also discussed and Cllr Keith Martin was congratulated on being asked to speak. David Fallon, Branch Secretary said it was a mark of the esteem for which the Branch was held that Cllr Martin was being asked to address the school on building up membership.

Cllr Martin pointed out that the Branch had doubled in size in one year and was the most active political party in Westport but there was still more work to be done in spreading the word about what Labour wants to do in Westport.

Cllr Martin also encouraged Branch members and the public to make submissions on the Green Paper to Minister John Gormely at the Custom House, Dublin calling for a directly-elected mayor for Westport and towns like it.

For more information on the work of the Labour Party or to join the Westport Branch call 086 0691182 or visit http://www.westportlabour.blogspot.com/

Westport Labour supports Health Day of Action

2008-04-02T21:36:00.001Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party took part in the Health Action Day on March 29^th which was organised by a coalition of trade unions and patients groups to highlight public anger with what they say is now a crisis situation.

Members of the Westport Branch distributed leaflets and canvassed for support to put pressure on the HSE and the Minister for Health to take action to resolve issues like over-crowding and under-staffing.

Pic 1 Cllr Keith Martin and Sean Sammon Chairman of the Westport Branch

Pic 2 Sean Sammon and David Fallon of the Westport Branch distributing leaflets

Sincerely  Keith Martin  Mobile        086 0691182 e-mail        newseditor@ireland.com

Westport Selection Convention Report March 25th

2008-03-26T21:57:00.001Z

Mayo’s first selection convention has taken place over a year in advance of the Local Elections of 2009. Councillor Keith Martin has been unanimously selected by the Labour Party in Westport to contest a seat on Mayo County Council. A crowd of over thirty party members and supporters of Cllr Martin attended the selection convention in the Wyatt Hotel on Tuesday (March 25th) which saw the popular Westport Town Councillor nominated to contest for one of the four seats in the Westport Electoral Area.

The selection convention was chaired by Mayo man and former Party Leader, Deputy Pat Rabbitte, Labour’s Spokesperson on Justice. Cllr Martin was proposed by party stalwart Michael Joe Lavelle and was unanimously accepted as the Party’s candidate.

Present in the audience were representatives from the Labour Party’s other Branches in Castlebar and Swinford, among them was Harry Barrett, Labour’s Dail candidate in the 2007 General Election.

Accepting the nomination Cllr Martin said he was “honoured” and thanked all those who had come out to support him.

Cllr Martin pointed out that while the town of Westport was relatively new “its roots stretch back over centuries to the village of Cathair na Mart at the mouth of the Carrowbeg River” and he pointed out that the Labour Party in Westport had old roots also, saying they were “embedded in this town since the 1920s and Westport has had a branch in this town for the last 80 years. Over those years there have been up and downs but the Labour Party has been there, inside and outside the council chamber raising the issues that matter to you.”

Cllr Martin added “The Labour Party in Westport has always championed the common interest over special interests and will continue to do so. We are, without doubt, the most active and vocal of all the political parties in the town. Our membership has doubled in two years and we are currently attracting new members at an unprecedented rate. This is because we are still championing the common interest.”

Cllr Martin continued that he believed in local government and that the most effective form of government takes place at the lowest possible and practical level, adding, “I believe in Directly Elected Mayors with executive powers, offering leadership and accountability in place of unelected officials exercising "executive functions" at the expense of local democracy.

“I believe in supporting local crafts and producers, that is why I am the founding and current chairman of the Westport Food and Craft Market.

“I believe in a fair deal and that is why I am honoured to serve on Westport's Fairtrade committee in our designated Fairtrade Town.

“I believe that everyone has the right to live in their home town and that is why I support the Tubberhill development which will see the creation of over 90 units of mixed social and affordable housing just up the road from this hotel.

“I believe in access for all that is why I am a founding member of the town's Barcelona Committee to oversee our compliance with disability and access requirements in our town.

“I can see a future when all young men and women from Westport can afford their own home in Westport

“I can see a future when Westport attracts employers from all over the world thanks to investment in infrastructure like super high speed broadband, an N5 dual carriage way linking us to Castlebar and the very high quality of life we offer here in Westport

“I can see a future when the majority of Westport's energy needs are met by sustainable sources such as wind, wave and tidal power.

“I can see a future when conservation is as important as development.

“I can see a Westport, a Mayo, an Ireland, where no-one is left behind, no matter what their income, their education or their background.

“I believe in an equality of opportunity, I believe in a fair society and that is why I am so proud to have been selected by you here tonight. I will not let you down. I will continue to work hard for you.”

Addressing the convention after Cllr Martin was selected, Deputy Pat Rabbitte said the Labour Party was growing stronger in Westport and in Mayo in general and pointed out that the county had once elected a Labour TD and Party Leader in the early years of the state.

Deputy Rabbitte said “I believe that in selecting Cllr Keith Martin as your candidate you have chosen a young man with integrity and passion who will work hard for the people of Mayo. Cllr Martin has a proven track record on Westport Town Council of working hard and championing the issues of concern to you all. He is a fine candidate and I urge you all to work hard on his campaign over the coming year to ensure he takes a seat on Mayo County Council.”

Addressing the convention Westport Branch Chairman, Mr Sean Sammon, congratulated Cllr Martin on his nomination and pledged him the full support of the branch and also thanked Deputy Rabbitte for chairing the convention and for his support. He also thanked Secretary David Fallon for his work on the evening.

Concluding the convention Mr Sammon thanked all those present “for coming out on such a March evening in such numbers to lend your support to Keith and his campaign. We must all work together to make sure that he is elected in 2009!”

March Meeting report

2008-03-18T17:45:00.005Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party held its March meeting at Henehan’s bar on Bridge Street this month where it welcomed a new member, John McDonnell to the branch and reviewed its progress and activities over the month.

The meeting was well attended and the branch heard updates from the committee on many issues including the Town Development Plan, the work of the Boundary Commission and the Lisbon Treaty campaign.

Addressing the Branch, Secretary David Fallon outlined the status of the party’s membership in Westport which had increased by three members in three months. Mr Fallon also outlined the progress of the forming of the new Constituency Council for Mayo which was underway. Mr Fallon explained that he was in the process of contacting all members of the Labour Party in Mayo to update them on the council.

Branch Chairman Sean Sammon outlined the progress of the Branch in securing speakers for its planned public meetings on issues of concern to the people of the town and announced that the Selection Convention for the Westport area would be taking place on Tuesday March 25th at 8pm in the Wyatt Hotel. Mr Sammon added that Deputy Pat Rabbitte, Labour’s Spokesperson on Justice would be chairing the convention and would address the meeting on the issue of anti-social behaviour, crime and policing after the convention. Mr Sammon added that he expected a good attendance and explained that the meeting would be open to all Labour supporters and well-wishers in Mayo.

Councillor Keith Martin updated the Branch on his activities and reported on the recent meeting of Labour Councillors at the Mansion House in Dublin. Cllr Martin informed the Branch that he had met with the Party Leader Deputy Eamon Gilmore who had remarked on the great progress being made by the Westport Branch in spreading the party’s message in West Mayo.

Cllr Martin reported on the workshops he attended regarding the local elections of 2009 and also outlined the support that would be available to the Branch for the coming Lisbon Treaty Campaign and proposed a public meeting on the issue.

The meeting was concluded by a general discussion about the Point and Roman Island area and suggestions were made to update the Branch’s submission on the area under the on-going review of the Town Plan.

For more information on membership or the work of the Labour Party in Mayo call Keith on 086 0691182.

A.G.M. Westport Branch Labour Party

2008-02-21T22:50:00.001Z

The Westport branch of the Labour Party held its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 5th February in Henehan’s bar. The officials that were elected to serve this year are, Chairman, Sean Sammon, Vice Chairman John Tiernan, Branch Secretary David Fallon Branch Treasurer Matt Murray and Equality Officer M J Martin.

The outgoing Branch Secretary gave a comprehensive report on the activity of the Branch over the last twelve months, highlights of which were the fundraising events of the race night and church gate collection. The party’s local and national General Election results were discussed as was the future of the party and its role in Mayo.

Cllr Keith Martin reviewed the past year from a his perspective as an elected representative and thanked all the branch members for their hard work during the national election. He reminded them that the local and county elections would be here before they knew it and asked them to be prepared to work hard to inform the Westport voters of the local Labour policies on community, equality and local democracy. He stated “for us in Labour the question is not how far we have come but how hard we can work and how far we can go to satisfy the aspirations and goals of the people of Westport”.

The new Chair Sean Sammon also reviewed the progress that the Westport Branch had made during 2007 and complemented the members on their work with the Health Services public survey and the street protest demonstration on the closure of the Mill Street Resource Centre. He said Westport’s large Polish community should be made aware that Labour are available to assist them should they require help with any local matters. He further complimented Cllr Martin on his work and said he was sure this was widely appreciated, as were Cllr Martin’s numerous achievements over the previous year, as exampled by finally having the Quay Hill pavements repaired when many others had tried and failed.

Addressing the members Mr Sammon said “over the next seventeen months we will have an exciting and interesting time, preparing for the 2009 elections. We have the progressive local policies and hard working candidates that can transform local government in Mayo. I call on all members of the branch to dig deep and put in the maximum effort, to ensure that the voters of Westport and Mayo are given the chance to meet our candidates and be informed of our local policies”

Finally Mr Sammon thanked the party members for their confidence in him, as the branch prepares for the challenges of the forthcoming Town Council and County Council elections.

The next meeting of the Westport Labour branch will be on Tuesday 4th March in Henehan’s on Bridge Street at 8.00pm. The Westport Branch of the Labour Party meet once a month in Henehan’s Bar and all are welcome to join the party. For more information on meetings or membership call 086 0691182.

January Meeting 2008

2008-02-06T18:30:00.001Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party has hit the ground running in 2007 with their January meeting, which was held in Henehan’s Bakehouse bar on Bridge Street Westport.

At the meeting the Branch discussed the on-going issue of mining near Croagh Patrick. It was noted at the meeting that the Branch had sent an objection to the proposed exploration licence to the Dept of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

The meeting also noted Cllr Keith Martin’s vocal opposition to any such development in the area. Cllr Martin informed the meeting that he had also issued a personal submission to the Minister Eamon Ryan and to the Dept on the issue and outlined the adoption by Westport Town Council of a similar resolution opposing the Gold Exploration licence. Cllr Martin called for a copy of the Branch’s objection to be forwarded to the Mayo Environmental Group.

The Branch noted the success of its recent race night and Christmas parties which had been very well attended and supported by members and supporters of the Labour Party in the Westport area.

The upcoming elections of 2009 were also discussed as was strategies for recruitment of new members and for identifying potential candidates and campaign workers.

Cllr Martin reported on the 2007 Budget meeting of Westport Town Council. Cllr Martin explained that his proposals for a bin waiver for the elderly and low-income families was not carried but that he had secured a commitment of support for hardship cases from the Manager. He explained that he was now in the process of bringing this information to the attention of the major churches and charities in the town so that those in need could avail of this offer of support.

Cllr Martin said his call to remove the Public Toilet on Mill St which he explained was costing €34,000 was also not carried by the council. Cllr Martin said he had proposed that the town relocate public toilets in Westport Leisure Park, which is owned and run by the council and already offers state of the art toilets free to the public. Cllr Martin explained that Westport Leisure Park cost €175,000 to run last year and “by relocating the toilet we could have saved €34,000 or over 1% in commercial rates in running costs but unfortunately there was no appetite for such a move.

The Branch then discussed the need for support officers for regional Branches of the Labour Party in areas like Mayo. There was a general discussion on upcoming issues like the Town Development Plan and preparations were made for the holding of the Branch’s AGM in early February.

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party meet once a month in Henehan’s Bar and all are welcome to join the party. For more information on meetings or membership call 086 0691182.

Our Google Group

2008-01-29T17:25:00.000Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party has launched its own Google Group at http://groups.google.com/group/westportlabour

Members of the branch can continue discussions and raise issues, policy matters etc with the Branch officers and read up on fundraising, policy and strategy matters.

So log in or join the Westport Branch today!

Its time to Party!

2007-12-04T23:32:00.000Z

Its that time of the year! Party time, not political party but just party.

The Westport Branch of the Party is inviting all its members, friends and supporters (that's you) to our Christmas Party in Henehan's Bar Bridge Street on Friday December 14th at 8pm.

Last year's party was great fun and the special attraction was the recognition of the decades of work by Labour Party stallwart Michael Joe Lavelle. An inscribed crystal bowl was presented to Michael Joe on behalf of the branch by Emmet Stagg TD who also presented Michael Joe with a letter of appreciation from Party Leader Pat Rabbitte.

This year there will be food, music, a raffle and maybe even a spot of Karaoke with Cllr Martin threatening one of his Elvis Impersonations. All are welcome so please come along and join the party!

Branch Update Oct, Nov and Dec 2007

2007-12-03T00:27:00.000Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party has had an extremely busy Autumn. The Branch hosted an extremely successful Race Night in Henehan’s Bar, was represented at the National Party conference where it had a motion adopted and had a very successful Church Gate collection.

Vice Chairman John Tiernan said that it an excellent year for the Branch adding that he and the members wanted to thank all those up supported the Branch at the race night and church gate. “We want to thank all our sponsors and those who gave so generously it is truly appreciated.”

The branch has also continued to make inroads into its stated policy of bringing a national Labour Party conference to Westport and has discussed the matter with local hoteliers and the Chamber of Commerce.

The branch has also continued to lobby for cycling lanes in and around the town and has made a detailed submission to the upcoming review of the Westport Town Plan on this and several other areas such as land zoning and the best use of such lands. The Branch also wants to see the Point area revamped as a swimming and leisure area.

The branch also passed a unanimous motion in support of Westport Civic Trust’s drive to ensure a town garden on the site of the Bank of Ireland Garden. The Branch noted Cllr Martin’s on-going support for the issue ever since his election to the council and Cllr Martin reiterated his complete support for the project.

More recently the Branch has leant its support to the anti-mining campaign which wants to prevent mining in the vicinity of Croagh Patrick. The Branch noted that Cllr Martin was very vocal in his opposition to the project.

Cllr Martin informed the meeting that he felt the proposed small scale mine was a cover for a large scale mining operation in an area of incredible natural beauty and cultural and religious significance. He called on politicians from all parties to support the campaign.

The Branch has also recruited two more members in the month of December and will be running a recruitment drive in the New Year. According to John Tiernan the Branch is also looking for possible candidates for the upcoming local elections. “We are looking for women and men with a social conscience who want to improve their town for the benefit of their fellow citizens. We would urge these people to join the Labour Party in Westport; we are a dynamic Branch, meeting once a month, every month and are building ourselves up for the local elections. Our message to those who support our aims and those of Councillor Keith Martin is, ‘If you think Labour, join Labour’.”

The next meeting of the Westport Branch is on Friday 14th December at 8pm in Henehans Bar on Bridge Street. More information on the party and membership is available on their website http://www.westportlabour.blogspot.com/

Westport supports Shell to Sea

2007-11-20T00:05:00.000Z

At the 2007 Labour Party Conference in Wexford the Westport Branch of the Labour Party voted in support of a motion, moved by UCD and Dublin South branches calling for the Shell project to be moved off shore and for the terms of the agreement, whereby the state makes nothing in revenue and does not receive a discounted price on the gas to be re-negotiated.

The motion noted that the land of local residents had been handed over to Shell by compulsory purchasing orders to procure the pipeline's construction. It went on to list negative aspects of the project, and noted that governments led by Fianna Fáil had given corporations involved up to 100 per cent tax write-off.

Labour energy spokeswoman Liz McManus agreed that issues of exploration and royalties were important, but she warned delegates that accepting the motion, as it was drafted, would leave the State open to the risk of paying enormous compensation to a private oil company.Ms McManus then suggested that a working party be set up to consider all the issues involved, including the impact on local communities.

Ms McManus's proposal was carried by 99 votes to 73 on a show of hands.

Westport Labour condemn underspend in west

2007-11-20T00:02:00.000Z

Labour’s Cllr Keith Martin denounced the Government’s €4,000,000,000 under-spend in the Boarder Midland and West (BMW) Region from the podium of the 2007 Labour Party Conference which took place last weekend in Wexford.

Cllr Martin was proposing a motion from the Westport Branch, for adoption by the Party, condemning the billions of euros that have been unspent by the Government in the BMW. Addressing the conference delegates Cllr Martin said “in bad times the West suffered because there was no money. It is repugnant that in this time of prosperity that we suffer still” adding that “the figures concerned speak louder than words.”

Cllr Martin concluded that the it was deplorable that billions of euro of funding was being returned unspent while “vital West of Ireland infrastructural projected directly affecting jobs, capital investment and quality of life were being left on the drawing boards.”

Cllr Martin was one of the group of Mayo delegates attending the Labour Party’s annual conference.

The Westport Branch’s motion was part of the composite motion on Community, Rural and Gaeltacht affairs which was adopted by the Labour Party. The motion dealt with the government’s failure to redress the continuing decline of rural communities, especially on the Western seaboard, its failure to invest in the BMW and committed the Labour Party to developing a comprehensive rural policy which would ensure that the Party shook off its ‘urban only’ perception and reaffirmed its relevance in rural life and politics.

The motion was proposed by Cllr Keith Martin on behalf of the Westport Branch and Seconded by the Glenties Branch in Donegal South West.

While at the conference Cllr Martin met with Deputy Jack Wall, Labour’s Spokeperson on Community and Rural Affairs, to discuss the issue of the €4 Billion underpsend as well as community and rural affairs in the Westport area. Cllr Martin will be meeting with Deputy Wall in the New Year to discuss Labour’s policies and initiatives concerning farming, rural communities and investment in the West.

Cllr Martin also met with fellow Mayo man and Labour Party Chief Whip Deputy Emmet Stagg to discuss the Westport Branch’s development and the promtion of the Labour Party in Mayo. Deputy Stagg and Cllr Martin also discussed the local elections which will take place in a little over 18 months time.

During the conference Cllr Martin took part in the AGM of the National Association of Labour Councillors which was addressed by Sentor White and Deputy Ciaran Lynch Spokesperson on Local Government.

The Mayo Delegates also took place in the elections for the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee which oversees, directs and co-ordinates the policies, organisation and affairs and activities of the Party.

more at http://councillorkeithmartin.blogspot.com/

A night at the Races November 9th Henehan's Westport

2007-10-24T17:28:00.000Z

The Westport Branch will be hosting a Night at the races on November 9th in Henehans, Bridge Street. Horses can be bought on 098 27801. A great night is guaranteed!

Westport Health survey

2007-02-14T10:03:00.000Z

Jenny Martin and Chairman John Tiernan taking part in the Westport Health Survey organised by the branch. The survey was a great success and has been sent to Party HQ to be prepared as a report. It should make very interesting reading and the branch will be launching the report when it is ready.

www.makeachange.ie

Westport Cllr attends Labour Conference

2007-02-14T09:54:00.000Z

Pictured here are both of Labour's two Keith Martins. The one on the left is a Westport Town Councillor and the one on the right is Parliamentary Assistant to Ruairi Quinn TD. The photo was taken at the 2007 Labour Party Conference in the Helix, Dublin.

Report of January's Westport Branch Meeting

2007-01-26T19:38:00.000Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party held its January meeting in the Bake house Bar of Henehan’s last week.

There was a review of the Branch’s achievements in 2006 by Chairman John Tiernan who outlined a heavy schedule for the Branch in 2007.

Top of the agenda was the privatization of the waste collection service in Westport and this was condemned by the Branch, as a whole, as a retrograde step. Reporting to the Branch on the issue Cllr Keith Martin said that the powers over Waste Management had been removed from councillors by the Fianna Fail/PD government and this meant that councillors were powerless to prevent the privatisation. He said this created a democratic deficit in local government and warned that central government seemed to prefer local administration to local government and there was a deliberate policy emanating from government which, if unchecked, would see local authorities becoming service regulators rather then service providers.

The branch then discussed the issues of privatisation of local authority services and there was general agreement that no further services should be privatised and that the Branch would oppose any such moves particularly in the areas of water and Civic Amenity centres.

Moving on to discuss the Connaught Waste Plan Chairman John Tiernan said the branch welcomed all moves to increase recycling in Mayo and would oppose plans to introduce charges at the council’s amenity centres.

The issue of waivers for the elderly and those on low incomes was then discussed and Cllr Martin explained that he was optimistic that Westport Town Council could become only the second local authority in the country to retain waivers after privatization. Cllr Martin said that the councillors of Westport were in favour of such a scheme but that a lot of work had yet to go into the actualities and practicalities of the scheme.

Deputy Treasurer Matt Murray reported that the Branch was in the black following the Branch’s race night in November and Church Gate collection in October. Vice Chairman Andrew Martin expressed his gratitude to all the people who had contributed so generously at the church gate and at the race night.

The Branch also resolved to send three delegates to the upcoming Labour Party conference. Following a vote of the Branch, Andrew Martin, Matt Murray and Cllr Keith Martin were chosen to attend the conference in the Helix on February 10.

Finally the Branch agreed a schedule of canvassing, fundraising, leafleting and postering for Harry Barrett’s Dail campaign. Chairman John Tiernan said the race for Dail seats in Mayo was wide open and that there was great dissatisfaction with the neglect of Mayo. Labour would deliver in government and the Branch in Westport would work hard to gather No. 1 votes for Harry Barrett. Delegates to the Mayo Constituency Committee were also agreed by the Branch and there was a unanimous commitment to work all out for Harry Barrett in the coming election.

Finally the Branch Secretary reminded members that membership fees were now due and would be taken up at the February meeting. The Labour Party’s Westport Branch will meet again in Henehans on Tuesday 13 February and new members are always welcome.

Welcome

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The officers of the Westport Branch of the Irish Labour Party.

Flickr

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This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Happy New Year

2006-12-31T17:28:00.000Z

Happy New Year from the Labour Party in Westport.

Our resolution this year is to get Harry Barrett elected in Mayo! We hope your's is too!

December meeting of Westport Branch of the Labour Party

2006-12-30T22:27:00.000Z

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and passed and matters arising were deferred to be discussed during the main body of the meeting. As they were relevant to ongoing business. Secretary Richard Lavelle read the correspondence and the national one day Labour Party Conference in February 2007 was discussed. It was decided to revisit this matter at the next meeting on January 9th to allow members to organise their schedules.

Delegates and observers will be selected at the January meeting. And transport and accommodation will be considered.

Matt Murray gave a detailed report on the successful branch race night held on 24th November. He reported that the entire financial package of races, horses and sponsorship were completed ten days before the start date. The entire evening went without a hitch and he complimented all who helped out during the evening. Special thanks were expressed to John McCarrick for his help and the Branch officially gave him a vote of thanks for his assistance, Regional Labour Officer John Feeley was also complimented on his help. All expenses for the race night and the forthcoming Christmas party have been paid the evening was a great financial success and the branch can look forward to sufficient funds to cover most overheads for the forthcoming year.

The Treasures report, showing monies lodged to the Branch’s new Ulster bank account. In the work related absence of Cllr Keith Martin the Vice Chairman gave a truncated elected representatives report. Topics covered were the proposed Mayo County Council Waste Disposal Draft Plan. The official response to Cllr Martin’s concerns on proposed charges for recycling to be levied at the recycling centres was of an unambiguous refusal to change the view that in order to facilitate the Waste Contractors and to reduce CO2 emissions there would be a charge on recyclables taken to the tip heads by individuals. This matter will be discussed again at the next meeting.

A list of ongoing public works around the town was also aired, with the emphasis on works that Cllr Martin has made representation. The New Town Hall plan was read to the members and discussed. They unanimously welcomed it, as an innovative and long overdue addition to the Town’s social and cultural resources. The Town Council acceptance and take over of various estates that the developers are still responsible for, was also read and discussed. Under any other business the Christmas party was discussed and arrangements for same confirmed for Friday night 15th December starting at 7-30pm.

Matt Murray was complimented on the work he did on the Race Night programme and for its excellent production values. Members were reminded to send back to HQ, the Friends of the Labour Party draw tickets and remittances and to give the Treasurer the Branch’s portion .The Branch’s proposal to bring a national labour party conference to Westport were mentioned and it was agreed to reinforce our efforts to achieve this goal.

The branch formally thanked all its members and supporters for their hard work in 2006 and wished all its friends in Westport and surrounds a peaceful and happy Christmas. holiday Next branch meeting 9th January, Henehan’s Bakehouse 8pm.

55 years of service to Labour celebrated

2006-12-15T22:25:00.000Z

Michael Joe has been a loyal and dedicated member of the Westport Branch of the party for over 55 years and his service was recognised at the Branch’s Christmas Party, which was held on Friday night in Henehan’s Bar. Michael Joe’s friends and family were present on to see Michael Joe being honoured.

Michael Joe was presented with a cut crystal bowl inscribed with a dedication and the party’s symbol of the rose by Emmet Stagg TD Labour’s Chief Whip and Nuclear spokesman. Deputy Stagg also read a letter to Michael Joe from Party Leader Pat Rabbitte TD. Deputy Rabbitte praised Michael Joe for his long and faithful service to the Labour Party over the last five decades and expressed the grateful thanks of the Irish Labour Party for his contribution to Irish socialism.

Deputy Stagg said Michael Joe was an example of true socialism "who had begun his involvement with Trade Unionism and Labour when he started work in the Shoe Factory in Westport. When that factory closed Michael Joe and others used their money to set up a co-operative to run the factory and kept the jobs in Westport for as long as they could." Deputy Stagg said that Michael Joe had "served with distinction in every official position in the Branch and had served as Chairman on numerous occasions."

Michael Joe spoke briefly saying how proud and grateful he was for the award. He thanked Deputy Stagg for being there to present him with his award and to give him the letter from Deputy Rabbitte.

"Westport and Mayo would be better off under a Labour government. Things are better now, but they are not good enough, they are sending people home from hospitals who need operations because they don’t want to put them on trolleys in the hall, well, that is not fixing the problem that is just hiding it and we need to change that because no one else will.

Michael Joe concluded "I am proud of the Westport Branch and proud of the work we have done over the years, they are a great bunch and are hard workers. We all have to do our best to help those who need it and Labour was the best party to help people."

The Branch report they had a great night with plenty of food, drink and craic and would like to thank all those who came along to join in the fun. The Branch would also like to thank all those who helped out with the organisation of the evening’s entertainment and to all those who gave such great prizes for the raffle. Westport Labour would like to wish everyone a safe and happy New Year.

Race Night Report

2006-12-07T22:49:00.000Z

We had a great night in Henehan's Bar last night. There was a great crowd in to support us and there was great excitement which got more intense with each successive race.
John McCarrick travelled all the way down from Sligo to help us out and run the races for us.
John Feely, that ever resourceful man, also came down with his tote tickets and manned one of the tote stations.

Our auction race was great craic and we had winners for our top prizes of TV/DVD combi, portable TVs, a Stereo System and Gym Membership.
Eight weeks of planning and selling by the Branch coupled with terrific support from sponsors and the generosity of the people of Westport made our night not only a great fundraising event but a fun social night out for all the branch, family, friends and supporters. We may have even gotten a few converts to the cause.

Westport Branch November meeting

2006-11-10T22:48:00.000Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party held its November meeting this week at which a range of issues including the Branch’s upcoming fundraiser Race Night, recycling charges and a proposal for a Labour conference in Westport were discussed.

Chairman John Tiernan congratulated the sub committee responsible for organising the race night. Details of the races and race card were finalised as were the prizes for the auction race which include a TV/DVD combo unit, a portable TV and Gym membership. The race night will take place on Friday November 24th in Henehan’s Bar at 8.30pm.

The meeting then discussed the Connaught Waste Plan and its recommendation to Mayo County Council for the introduction of charges for the recycling of household waste at the County Council’s two Civic Amenity Centres in Newport and Ballina.

Cllr Keith Martin explained the issues relating to the proposals and informed the Branch that he was opposed to such measures on the grounds that such charges would mean punishing the recyclers as opposed to the polluters. Cllr Martin pointed out that of the six local authorities covered by the plan that Mayo had the lowest rate of recycled household waste at 9% compared with Galway city’s 50%. The Branch agreed that such charges should be opposed. Cllr Martin informed the meeting that was in the process of contacting the Environmental Specific Policy Committee of Mayo County Council requesting that such charges be abandoned. Cllr Martin said he would prepare a report on the issue and a possible campaign of action for the December meeting.

The Branch was also updated on its proposal to the Labour Party HQ to host the upcoming national Conference in Westport. A detailed proposal had been prepared by Cllr Martin and the Vice Chairman and submitted for consideration last month. The meeting was told that the proposal had received great support from local hoteliers and that the suggestion was currently being considered by Labour’s Conference Organisers.

The Branch then discussed An Bord Pleanala’s decision in relation to the Cloonomonad Road and Bridge. Cllr Martin spoke of how disheartened he was by the Bord’s decision as he felt that the road would destroy the nature of the Railway Line Walk and interfere with the delicate environment of the area. Cllr Martin noted the support of the Branch and of the people of Westport in their opposition to the road. The Branch chairman said that it was disappointing that the Bord had ruled that an Environmental Impact Statement was not required but that Cllr Martin and the Stop the Road campaign had done their best in the best interests of the town and that was all the Branch or the people of Westport could ask.

September Meeting of Westport Branch

2006-09-09T22:46:00.000Z

The Westport Branch of the Labour Party held its September meeting last week this was its first meeting after their break in August.

The meeting began with the elected member’s report and Cllr Martin reported to the Branch on his council work and activities. Cllr Martin detailed the completion of new pavement works at the Pond and the beginning of path and road works in Deerpark East. The members warmly welcomed the news of the replanting of the Northwoods and it was noted that Cllr Martin had been involved with the issue since 1999.

Cllr Martin reported that he had made a presentation to Minister Dempsey on Westport’s need for a Metropolitan Area Network to deliver extremely high speed broadband to the area, as part of his work on the Westport job creation taskforce.

Cllr Martin detailed his on-going work with regard to the path from McCarthy’s Bar to the top of Quay Hill and of the inadequate signage for the Quay area. Cllr Martin also reported to the members of his campaign in relation to anti-social behaviour in the Mill St and High St area of town. Cllr Martin reported that was anxious to involve local residents, businesses, the council and the Gardaí in tackling the issue.

The members heard that the Vice Chairman and Cllr Martin had returned from a meeting a HQ at which strategy for the upcoming General Election was discussed in detail.
The Branch then discussed the Labour Party’s National Recruitment week which is taking place this week. The members agreed to take part in a number of recruitment initiatives.

The Branch also resolved to campaign to bring the National Labour Party Conference to Westport and a detailed proposal is currently being prepared by the Vice Chairman, Andrew Martin, with the assistance of local hotels and when completed will be sent to Party HQ and the Labour leadership.

The members then began planning a Race Night for late November and a sub-committee was established and is currently arranging the date and venue. A Christmas Party is also planned for December for the Party members, family, friends and supporters and the full details on both of these events will be announced following the next meeting of the Branch.

Cllr Martin was asked to update the Branch on his proposals for the webcasting of Westport Town Council meetings. Cllr Martin reported that in 2005 he made the case at a council meeting for a website for the council and this was accepted at the time. Work on the website www.westporttc.ie was almost complete and Cllr Martin said that it would be his proposal to launch both the website and webcasting of our meetings together later in the year.

Cllr Martin said it was necessary to make meetings as public as possible and the wide availability of broadband in the urban area would mean greater opportunities for people to view their council and councillors in action. Unfortunately the public gallery in the council offices is so small the council could currently only accommodate half a dozen people but by webcasting meetings the council could open the democratic process up to all.

Labour’s recruitment week runs until October 14 and the Westport Branch would warmly welcome new members to join. Anyone interested in the work or policies of the Labour Party in Westport can call Keith on 086 0691182 for more information. The Branch’s next meeting will take place on October 10 at 8pm in the "Bakehouse" room of Henehan’s Bar, Bridge St and new members are always welcome.

Davitt remembered by Labour in Mayo

2006-05-30T22:45:00.000Z

In a simple ceremony on Saturday 27 th May, the local branch laid a commemorative wreath at the old meeting ground on the Newport Road, where Michael Davitt, patriot, land agitator and early labour movement founder, addressed a mammoth crowd of over 10,000 people in 1889. Among those present were Cllrs Johnny Mee and Keith Martin, along with Labour candidate Harry Barrett who gave a brief address on the man and his major achievements

Pat Rabbitte welcomes Westport Councillor

2006-04-30T22:42:00.000Z

"I am delighted to welcome Keith Martin into membership of the Labour Party.
"Keith has been a most impressive member of Westport Town Council since his election in June 2004 and this is an important advance for the Labour Party in Mayo.
"As a Mayo man myself I am greatly encouraged by the revitalization of the Labour Party in the county. We have already selected Harry Barrett as our candidate for the constituency in the next general election and I am confident that he will make a real impact whenever the election comes.
"The acquisition of such a capable and committed councillor as Keith Martin will give the party a further boost.
"I know that there are many others in Mayo who share the values of the Labour Party and I hope that they will join with us in putting this government out and offering the people a real alternative at the next local and national elections "

---Statement by Party Leader, Pat Rabbitte TD

Westport Branch AGM report

2006-04-27T22:41:00.000Z

The branch AGM was held on Thursday 27 th April and John Tiernan was re-elected chairman by popular acclaim (see full list of committee members on Westport Branch Officers page).

Several new and interesting ideas were mooted for general discussion at the May meeting which will take place Thursday 4th May.

We are promised interesting times ahead and if you feel you can help us to achieve our aims and goals, come on down and join us in making Westport a healthier, safer, greener and more democratic place to live.

May meeting Westport Branch

2006-04-07T22:44:00.000Z

The May meeting of the Labour Party’s Westport Branch took place recently in the Wyatt Hotel where a number of issues ranging from primary health care reform to pathway repairs were discussed. The branch also expressed its shock at the recent sudden passing of local businessman, Mr Joe O’Donnell, and the branch Chairman, John J Tiernan, extended the Westport Branch’s deepest sympathy to Mr O’Donnell’s wife and children on their sudden loss.
The meeting discussed a number of initiatives to promote the Labour Party in Westport and examined a number of proposals from members with regard to increasing membership of the branch.
The Westport branch unanimously passed a resolution welcoming the signing of the contracts in relation to Westport’s new fire station saying it was a welcome development for the town.
Progress on the branch’s website was reviewed and a trial version of the website was showcased for the members by webmaster and branch Vice-Chairman Andy Martin. The branch then agreed to proceed with the development and launch of the website by early in June.
A motion of support was also passed for the Nursing Unions’ calls for a shorter week as this, it was felt, would ensure nurses would not be working excessive hours in what is a tiring and often stressful working environment.
The branch also noted that the Christian Brothers Boys’ school and the St Patrick’s Girls’ school would soon be merging and the branch should recognise the good work done by all in educating the young of Westport over many years.
Anyone wishing to know more about the Labour Party in Westport can e-mail richielavelle@eircom.net or call Richie on 087 6521177.

Addressing the meeting Mr Tiernan reported on the Branch’s activities over the last year adding "The branch will be active in 2006 as it presents the opportunity for change in government." Mr Tiernan continued that the Westport Branch will be working to get Harry Barrett elected in the upcoming election and has set itself the task of increasing its profile and its membership.

The Branch observed a moment’s silence for the victims of the Chernobyl disaster following a motion from Cllr Keith Martin that the Branch rejected Nuclear Power as a source of energy and as a solution to the problems of climate change and called on the government to invest in renewable forms of energy for Ireland.

Branch Officials

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Chairman
Sean Sammon

Vice Chairman
John Tiernan
087 2309119

Secretary
David Fallon

P .R. O.
Keith Martin
086 0691182

Treasurer
Matt Murray

Photos Page

2005-12-30T22:35:00.000Z

About Us

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The Westport branch of the Labour party was founded in 1925. Westport at the time was a major western seaboard town, with a thriving port, industrial infrastructure and corresponding work force.
.
Westport's branch of the Labour Party came in to existence to give the people of Westport an authentic caring socialist voice. To give them an enthusiastic and hardworking alternative, to an increasingly bureaucratic and out of touch establishment, dominated by two ideologically right of centre parties.
Now, as then, the Labour Party in Westport is dedicated to promoting real local democracy and community ethos, working to achieve positive local results, that will ensure that the quality of life for the citizen's of Westport is enhanced and improved.
Labour party stalwart Michael Joe Lavelle has been an example of this activity and interest; over the last five decades he has fostered in his family, friends and supporters, a core Westport labour vote, which remains strong and vibrant to this day.
Whether on the issues of health care, local road and rail, environment, crime prevention and citizens rights, you will find your local Labour Party in the fore front of the fight to ensure Westport and its environs obtain what is right and equitable.
There are many others in Westport who share the values of the Labour Party and we hope that they will join with us in offering the people a real alternative at the next local and national elections .
John Tiernan Chairman Labour Party Westport Branch

Party Principles

The four principles on which Socialism is based are Freedom, Equality, Community and Democracy.
From its first election programme in 1920 to the present day, these principles have been at the centre of the policies which the Labour Party has offered to the Irish people. These are the values which have ruled our major campaigns and our political activity whether in opposition or in Government.
The Labour Party is committed to representing the ideals of our movement in Government and ultimately we aim to be the majority party in Dail Eireann.

Freedom

Freedom is a fundamental human right. No society is free unless the men and women who make up that society are free individuals. Poverty, homelessness, unemployment and ignorance are the enemies of freedom. Labour extends the same freedom to all members of society and opposes the victimisation of individuals on the basis of class, colour, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, race or ethnic origin.

Equality

Equality implies reorganising society with the specific object of creating a more equal distribution of wealth and power, and not just opportunities for individuals to become powerful or wealthy. The Labour Party sees equality not only in economic terms but also in terms of social political and economic rights. It is necessary for the individual to enjoy these rights under the law if there is to be full and true equality.

Community

Socialism realises that men and women by necessity and by choice live in co-operation with each other. In the community or the workplace, the trade union or the social club there is a common sense of belonging and of purpose. The spirit of Community places Labour on the side of the oppressed, not only in Ireland but also in all countries of the world and in particular in the Third World.

Democracy

Democracy is fundamental to the concept of giving power to people to shape their own lives. This empowering of people should cover all aspects of life, including culture, politics, justice and the workplace.

Sitting Labour Town Councillor Keith Martin

Keith is the Labour Party Councillor on Westport Town Council.
Keith wants to involve the people of Westport in their local democracy and is committed to reform of local government with directly elected full time Mayors with executive powers.
Keith continues to work towards the smaller things that make life easier such as having on-street bus shelters, decent public toilets and proper consultation with Wesport's residents and businesses with regard to major works in the town and in planning the future of the town.

Address

33, Pairc Na Coille,
Wesport,
Co Mayo.
Tel:
Mobile: 086 0691182

Contact Us

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You can reach the Westport Branch of the Labour Party with these contact details.

Telephone
087 2766955

E-Mail
westport.labour.party@ireland.com