Murder 'trial' in Swinford
THE soaring, flaking walls of a 19th century Mayo courthouse - now disused - is echoing once again to the lofty tones of eminent 'barristers' as they probe and parry in robust legal argument.
Swinford Courthouse, one of hundreds of rural court venues abandoned by the Courts Service, is one of the settings for a new docu-drama series focusing on Murdáir Mhám Trasna (The Maamtrasna Murders).
The film will tell the barbaric story of night-time murders in a rural Connemara community in 1882 as well as the subsequent trials which led to the unjust hanging and life imprisonment of innocent people.
Of the eight found guilty of murder, three were hanged in a spot which now lies in the carpark of Galway Cathedral. Five others had their death sentences commuted to penal servitude for life.
Filming will take place at the courthouse in Swinford and other east Mayo locations throughout this week.
Says Michael Smyth, a Swinford-based member of Mayo County Council: “This is quite a significant production which is benefiting the local economy.
“A number of local people have been taken on as extras.
“Those involved are staying in local hotels and bringing revenue to the town.
“The film company have permission from the local authority to use the courthouse building.”
Murdáir Mhám Trasna is being filmed in other locations apart from Swinford – Dublin, Galway and Connemara.
The film is being produced by ROSG with funding from TG4 and the Broadcasting Association of Ireland (BAI).
The fact that meaningful and significant use has been found for the old Swinford courthouse building has been welcomed by Pat O'Connor, principal of the long established law firm P. O’Connor and Sons, solicitors.
He enthused: “The courthouse (circa 1840) is a wonderful asset to the town and community. The use of the historic building for a courtroom drama set in the 19th century is highly appropriate.”
Swinford is very busy filmwise this week – the next series of the TV comedy Hardy Bucks is currently being shot in the town.
“The way we're going Swinford will eventually rival Hollywood,” Michael Smyth joked.