Call to commemorate Mayo Brigadier General 100 years after his death

THE people of Westport will be asked to suggest names for the new roundabouts that will be part of the N5 project around the town.

Two names have already been thrown into the hat - the late Brigadier General Joseph Ring and former TD Myles Staunton.

A discussion about names for roundabouts arose at a municipal district meeting where Councillor Peter Flynn tabled a motion asking that Brigadier General Ring be commemorated on the 100th anniversary of his death.

He helped to set up An Garda Síochána, was the first Assistant Garda Commissioner, and went on to become Brigadier General of the National Army. He also took part in the War of Independence and brought great honour both to Westport and Mayo, he said.

Councillor Flynn said recent commemorations had opened his eyes as to what so many local people had achieved.

Having died at 31, Brigadier General Ring left his mark on the town, county and nationally and it would be appropriate to mark his death 100 years on.

There was a suggestion about naming a roundabout after him but he was open to all suggestions.

Councillor Gerry Coyle, whose father had been imprisoned with Ring, said his father had a second chance in life whereas his colleague did not, having died on the battlefield.

Alot of these people have been completely written out of history, especially the women, and he felt the roundabout suggestion was a fitting tribute.

Councillor Hyland suggested it be the roundabout at Drumindoo, beside where Joseph Ring was born and reared.

Councillor Johnny O'Malley said he would love to see something done for Joseph Ring but he felt that particular roundabout should be named after Myles Staunton, without whom Allergan would never have come to Westport. The plant had been earmarked for Cork but the then TD changed their minds and brought it to Westport.

Councillor Brendan Mulroy said they should invite expressions of interest and give the people of Westport an opportunity to have their say.