Deputy Stagg said Michael Joe was an example of true socialism “who had begun his involvement with Trade Unionism and Labour when he started work in the Shoe Factory in Westport. When that factory closed Michael Joe and others used their money to set up a co-operative to run the factory and kept the jobs in Westport for as long as they could.” Deputy Stagg said that Michael Joe had “served with distinction in every official position in the Branch and had served as Chairman on numerous occasions.”

Michael Joe spoke briefly saying how proud and grateful he was for the award. He thanked Deputy Stagg for being there to present him with his award and to give him the letter from Deputy Rabbitte.

“Westport and Mayo would be better off under a Labour government. Things are better now, but they are not good enough, they are sending people home from hospitals who need operations because they don’t want to put them on trolleys in the hall, well, that is not fixing the problem that is just hiding it and we need to change that because no one else will.

Michael Joe concluded “I am proud of the Westport Branch and proud of the work we have done over the years, they are a great bunch and are hard workers. We all have to do our best to help those who need it and Labour was the best party to help people.”

We had a great night with plenty of food, drink and craic and I would like to thank all those who came along to join in the fun.

The branch and I would also like to thank all those who helped out with the organisation of the evening’s entertainment and to all those who gave such great prizes for the raffle. Westport Labour would like to wish everyone a safe and happy New Year.