Mayo tidy towns group in 'back to the future' initiative

Minister of State Alan Dillon has launched a Castlebar Tidy Towns climate initiative that looks back to the past so we can learn for the future.

The project, supported by Castlebar Social Services and Mayo County Council, is a series of personal stories from our not too distant past.

Some popular figures from around the county town tell stories from their childhood, how when money was tight, they were careful not to waste anything, if things were broken, they would fix them, people lived off the land, cycled, and would look out for each other.

All things that are good for the climate, and would save people money, is a win-win.

Minister Dillon commented: “As we mark Climate Week 2025, I’m proud to stand with Castlebar Tidy Towns, Castlebar Social Services, and Mayo County Council in celebrating the wisdom of our past.

"These stories, filmed at Jack’s Cottage in Islandeady, remind us that resilience, community spirit, and living simply are not just memories, they’re solutions.

"When we fix what’s broken, share what we have, and care for one another, we protect both our planet and our wellbeing.

"Let’s honour these lessons, get involved locally, and build a future rooted in connection, sustainability, and pride in our place.”

Speaking at the launch Councillor Ger Deere, shairman of Castlebar Tidy Towns, said: “We thank Minister Dillon for his support. By looking to the past we can learn valuable lessons.

"We are encouraging people to talk to their parents, their neighbours, their grandparents, listen to their stories, learn from them, buy what you need, if something breaks try and fix it.

"We are also encouraging people to get involved in the tidy towns and Castlebar Social Services.

"Being active, getting out and about, moving and talking to people is also good for the climate and good for your mental health.

"A big thanks to Deirdre Waldron, and the staff in Castlebar Social Services, they do amazing work in our community, to David Mellett and Lorna Dennehy of Mayo County Council for helping to fund this initiative, to all of the superstars in the videos, Ann Cresham, Joe Moylette, Joe Mc Dermott, Eddie and Ernie Sweeney, Geraldine Healy and Rose Tierney.

"I see a few Oscars on the way.

"Finally thanks to Castlebar Tidy Town volunteers for this project and all they do in and around the town.”