The Mayo News - 5th June 2002

From www.castlebar.ie

Local Papers Commentary
The Mayo News - 5th June 2002
By Neasa McGarrigle
Jun 7, 2002, 00:38

Support plan launched for abused women of Mayo
According to the Mayo Women's Support Services one in five women in Ireland has experienced violence by their partner or ex-partner. Also, between seven and ten percent of women in intimate relationships experience violence in any one year - that means that around 2,500 women in Mayo are experiencing domestic violence. Because of these startling facts Mayo Women's Support Services are launching a five-year strategy to give support to women all around Mayo who are victims of domestic violence. The organisation has released a booklet called "Integrity, Dignity and Safety" which outlines the plan for the new five-year strategy.

Blue Flags awarded to thirteen Mayo beaches
Mayo has done well this year from the awarding of Blue Flags to beaches. In total, Mayo received thirteen flags. The list of beaches that received blue flags this year included a beach on Clare Island that lost its flag last year. The other beaches are: Bertra, Old Head and Carrowmore in Louisburg, Mulranny, Dooega, Keel, Keem, Dugort and Golden Strand in Achill, Mullaghroe and Elly Bay in Belmullet and Ross in Killala. The jury who decides what beaches around the country receive blue flags includes representatives from the EPA, the Marine Institute, Dúchas, the Irish Water Safety Association, and the Consumers Association of Ireland.

Ballina Street Festival "Mardi Gras" and fireworks display
On Saturday 20th of July, during the Ballina Arts Festival week, "Mardi Gras" takes place. Mardi Gras is a parade that will start at 10 p.m. just as it gets dark. The parade this year will feature acts from all over the country and from other countries too. In previous years 40,000 people came to watch the parade that was full of exotic sounds and sights. This year the parade will be brighter and bigger than ever and at the end there will be a spectacular fireworks display.