Bushmills Bonfire Consultation launched

The evening began with an illuminating talk from Moyle Council’s Aidan McPeake who gave an outline of the new changing room facilities at Dundarave Playing fields, in what is an eagerly awaited development for the local area. Options for the future potential site of the bonfire were discussed including alternative areas of Dundarave and Woodvale, however organisers of the Consultation are asking people for other ideas as to where is feasible.

Mr Sean Feenan from the Community Foundation highlighted some aspects of the work that has taken place with the local community and in particular youth work funded by PEACE III with the support of the PSNI, NEELB, Business in the Community and TIDES.

Mr Noel Anderson from the Glebeside Community Association kindly agreed to share some of the highlights and experiences of recent developments around bonfires in the Ballymoney area, which was very informative.

Stars of the show were undoubtedly Craig and Mark from the local youth group who regaled stories from their cultural identity workshops and trips to Londonderry, Belfast and Dublin.

Added input from the Fire and Rescue Service, who confirmed their support for the initiative, was complemented by speakers from the National Trust who expressed high hopes for partnering the local community in any future ventures.

The local community association, Bushmills Residents and Environmental Forum (BREF) are at the fore of this initiative and are eager to engage the wider community in the consultation process with the support of Moyle District Council and others. A Bonfire Community Survey is available for people to fill in and return to the Post Office in the Diamond, Bushmills by Friday 22nd October. The Survey asks local people for their experiences and expectations of bonfires, possible future locations and their views on a new ‘controlled fire’ format.

Derwyn Brewster, Chairman of BREF said: “We also hope to widen participation from local people and explore possibilities around developing a family friendly festival for the 11th of July with the support of key agencies and volunteers. Your presence or input into the consultation process would be greatly appreciated, as would anyone who would like to volunteer for a new Festival Committee”.

Further queries about the Consultation can be obtained from Ryan Moore, Good Relations Officer at Moyle District Council (t) 2076 2225 or Derwyn Brewster, Chairman of BREF on 07526731325.