The burning of the mansion at Moorehall was a sad Mayo episode

THE RTÉ series about the big houses of Ireland made for compelling viewing.

Those mansions represented a lifestyle which was totally different to that endured by the vast majority of Irish people.

The landlords were figures of hate and were responsible for 80,000 evictions.

In that context, it is easy to appreciate the resentment and outrage of hundreds of thousands of small farmers who were paid a pittance whilst working for ruthless landlords.

In many instances those workers were treated no better than slaves by people who led a lavish lifestyle.

The bubble had to burst and one way of bursting that bubble was to burn the big houses.

Those were different times in Ireland and many of today’s people may have difficulty in understanding the outlook and views of the vast majority of Irish people in those years.

The RTÉ series on the big houses of Ireland has opened our eyes to a much different, depressed country.

By all accounts, the Moore family of Moorehall were decent people, kind to those who worked for them and understanding of the sufferings of local people.

The proceeds of a major race in England, won by a horse owned by the Moore family, were donated to relieve suffering in the area.

John Moore, who played a prominent role in the 1798 Rising, was chosen as president of Connacht.

He died in Ballygunner, Waterford, where he was buried.

His remains were later reburied in The Green, Castlebar, with full ceremonial honours. An impressive memorial marks his final resting place.

President De Valera and Taoiseach Seán Lemass were in attendance at a very impressive ceremony.

We cannot turn back the clock in relation to the burning of Moorehall House and other big houses.

Better perhaps to consign those sad times to the pages of history.

We now live in happier times when the Moores of Moorehall are held in deep respect by the people of County Mayo and Ireland.

Local Councillor Al McDonnell has done marvellous work in promoting the cause of Moorehall, Lough Carra and the surrounding areas.

Moorehall is a place of beauty and tranquillity, adjacent to the shores of Lough Carra.

What a wonderful gem to have in the centre of our magnificent county.