An extra treat for revellers in Mayo this Christmas.
For the second year in succession, Mayo County Council are to implement a novel campaign aimed at reducing rowdiness outside nightclubs over the festive season.
Last Christmas, punters were given lollipops when leaving nightclubs and late bars in the county as part of a campaign that initially drew its inspiration from similar schemes in the UK and Canada that had proved successful in the past.
Having been pleased with the results in 2015, Mayo County Council will once again be distributing lollipops (which will have messages such as ‘Get home safely’ written on them) in the county again this festive season as part of a campaign that also emphasises the need to stay safe on the road at Christmas.
“The plan is to give out the sugary treats to people coming from nightclubs and late bars in an attempt to crack down on road deaths of pedestrians and to stop drunken brawls,” said Noel Gibbons, road safety officer with Mayo County Council.
“Like giving candy to a grumpy baby, lollipops are said to have similar effects on grown men and women. Moreover, arguments fuelled by drunken bravado and macho attitudes often escalate following verbal exchanges.
“But stick a lollipop in their mouth, and it becomes a lot harder to shout.
“In other countries police noticed an immediate decrease in rowdy activity and an increase in calming energy and awareness created around the message on the lollipop,” he added.
The scheme is being supported by Gardaí in Mayo and Superintendent Joe McKenna, who is based in Castlebar, said it was worth trying out.
“Through this campaign we and our partners are using a whole range of ideas to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve road safety to make the Christmas period and New Year an enjoyable and safe time for all,” he said.
The trial is also being backed by pubs and nightclubs in Mayo and Joe Corcoran, manager of the Westport Plaza and Castlecourt Hotel Resort, said they would be backing it.
“We are very happy to be involved with any campaign that can save a life. This is a fantastic initiative by the road safety department of Mayo County Council,” he said.
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