Local Papers Commentary
The Western People - 17th April 2002
By Neasa McGarrigle
Apr 19, 2002, 08:43

Mayo Garda killed in horrific Dublin smash
The entire country was angered and saddened over the death of two Gardaí in Dublin on Sunday morning. The two Gardaí, stationed in Donnybrook, died when a stolen car crashed into the side of their patrol car at a speed of over 100 miles per hour. One of the Gardaí was 27-year-old Michael Padden from Belmullet. The other Garda in the car was Garda Anthony Tigue (53) who was from Dublin and was a father of four. The youths who were driving the car that crashed into the Garda patrol car were not fatally injured. The funeral of Garda Michael Padden took place on Wednesday at Shanaghy church.

Wants An Taisce more democratic and accountable
The Chairman of Mayo County Council, Jimmy Maloney, has spoken out against the actions of An Taisce. He said that An Taisce interfere in planning issues in Mayo. Currently An Taisce are making planning decisions from Dublin and Cllr. Maloney thinks that Mayo would be better served if there were a Mayo branch of An Taisce. A Mayo branch would ensure that the views of local residents are listened to.

Castlebar can become a role model for treating disabled
The Mayo launch of the Barcelona Declaration Project was held last Friday. The Barcelona Declaration Project was adopted by the EU and it aims to promote equal opportunities and recognise the contributions made by the disabled to the community. Deputy Beverly Cooper-Flynn spoke at the launch on how towns such as Castlebar can become role models in giving people with disabilities equal consideration in the community.

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