Cover Queen Maeve Square to allow year-round events take place – ‘we could really expand our offering’

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A motion put forward by Cllr Ann Higgins proposing that a roof or canopy be placed over Queen Maeve Square received plenty of support from fellow Councillors at last Monday’s monthly meeting of Sligo County Council.

Cllr Higgins’ motion called for, “Sligo County Council to pursue the installation of a retractable canopy/covering for Queen Maeve Square to allow for the holding of yearlong, non-weather dependent events in this excellent public space.”

Cllr Higgins recalled conditions at the recent summer festival where the poor weather on the final day resulted in the festivities coming to a premature end.

"They had to end the festival early on the Sunday. The first two days were like any European city. With proper facilities we can make use of Queen Maeve Square all year round.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Cllr Thomas Walsh who said, “I think we need a roof or a canopy that can be used all year round.”

Cllr Edel McSharry also offered her support for the motion saying, “There is a need for some kind of cover. We must have a temporary structure and then we can really expand our offerings in terms of Queen Maeve Square.”