Opening of new visitor centre at Mayo seafoods business

The new visitor centre at Croagh Patrick Seafoods in Roslaher, Kilmeena, Westport, has been officially opened by Deputy Michael RIng.

Deputy Michael Ring stated: “This is a fantastic initiative by Padraic Gannon, his wife Sheila and their family.

"I am delighted that Padraic’s mother, Annie Nora, was in a position to be in attendance at the opening to witness first-hand what her family have achieved.

"I have no doubt that she is so proud of Padraic and the whole family."

Deputy Ring continued: “This new facility is testament to what hard work, dedication and sheer determination can deliver.

"Padraic and his family had the innovation to expand their business and provide another wonderful offering for the tourism industry in Westport and beyond”.

“Padraic Gannon and his family started their shellfish farm in the mid-1980s.

"They have grown the business from its origins as an oyster farming enterprise into a diverse shellfish farm and production facility, producing oysters, mussels and clams.

"This business – Croagh Patrick Seafoods - has an excellent reputation for quality seafood.

“With the help of government funding under the LEADER Programme- this wonderful seafood development and visitor centre in Roslaher was created.

"The facility consists of a single storey building with a fully equipped seafood preparation kitchen, a tasting circulation area where the focus will be welcoming and doing business with trade customers.

"The main building will contain photographic representation of shellfish farming past and present with a video/presentation room for trade customers, school tours and marine students interested in more detailed history and information.

“There is no similar visitor centre in the area that will offer trade customers and the general public the opportunity to understand shellfish farming, enjoy a seashore tour to see how shellfish are grown, and tastings on site in a dedicated seafood kitchen and preparation area.

“Padraic and his family had great vision and they turned this in to reality. It is really wonderful to see a family business grow and expand with the help of government funding," he added.