Council must retain significance of Mayo crest

MAYO councillors want to see the county crest emblem front and foremost on local authority signage and publications.

In a motion, Councillor Peter Flynn asked: 'In light of the inconsistencies in adverts published in Mayo County Council’s name, I propose that a consistent approach be adopted for all county council advertising, stationery, signage (on buildings, vehicles, equipment) and that the county council crest be the emblem used by Mayo County Council in all cases.

'This does not prevent other symbols, brands or messages being displayed in addition to the crest but with lessor primacy than the official and historic crest of Mayo County Council.'

In response, he was told following discussions in autumn 2021, a revised format was introduced for adverts and publications and they now have the council crest and ‘M’ logo displayed clearly.

Councillor Flynn said he had no difficulty with the mayo.ie branding, but the crest must take precedence over other marketing or brands.

The crest was important as an identifiable marks on vehicles, for instance, said Councillor Patsy O'Brien, at a time when many people in rural areas are frightened, and there are bogus callers about.

They had to hold on to their symbol, which he felt was being 'watered down', and its significance fading.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne agreed he had no problem with other symbols being used but would have a major one if the crest is gone.

They should co-exist, agreed Councillor Martin McLoughlin, who noted the long history of the crest.

Chief executive Kevin Kelly said by and large the logo and crest appear on most ads.

A lot of time of time and money was invested in the council's branding and looking from the outside in, it was very powerful. He would be careful not to dismiss it.

At his suggestion, he said a report would be brought back before members.