Major honour for Ballyhaunis GAA Club

MUINTIR Mhaigh Eo. Atha Cliath has named Ballyhaunis GAA Club as the winner of its 2017 Meitheal Award winner for its community integration work.

The citation stated: “Over 50% of the population and 60% of the national school population are of non-Irish background. This changed demographic is accepted as an opportunity to compensate for what has been lost and to create a new sustainable society. Based on mutual respect the new residents are regarded as an asset and are actively invited to participate in the community.

“Academic research has confirmed that sport and the unique amateur traditions of the GAA is a very effective integration instrument. Ballyhaunis GAA Club have taken the initiative and underage teams include many skilled players from various ethnic groups who are encouraged to retain their culture and language. Parents become involved in this successful social integration which has achieved popular community support.

“The club annual integration day is a spectacular multi-cultural display -a colourful parade with the flags of the nationalities, music and bands and an integrated Irish dancing display, face painting, great selection of international food and of course very competitive games of hurling and football with multi-cultural participation.

“The integration day has attracted national and international attention. It has been broadcast on international television and a very informative TV documentary on the Ballyhaunis multi-cultural experience is in production to be broadcast during 2017.

'The Ballyhaunis community integration project was awarded runner-up prize when representing Mayo in the “Co-operation Ireland Pride of Place” competition in 2016.

“Ballyhaunis GAA truly represents the spirit of Meitheal. It is a thoughtful conscientious response to what could have been a difficult situation. This reflects the great generosity of Mayo people and Ballyhaunis and is a wonderful example which could provide a template for going forward for other communities across Ireland.”

The award will be presented at a gala function in the Ballsbridge Hotel, Dublin, on Friday night, February 10.