Carers Concert going ahead once again next year
The much-loved Billy Mac may have hung up his microphone, but the annual fundraising concert he championed for Family Carers Ireland will go ahead next spring. Some of the finest musical talents from Westmeath and the midlands have volunteered to perform at the "Carers Concert" in The Greville Arms on April 8.
The decision to continue the popular event came after local musicians Camillus Egerton and Chris Loughrey spoke with Deputy Robert Troy at a function in September, organised by Family Carers Ireland to thank Billy for his contribution over the past 20 years.
"We didn't want this to finish," Camillus told the Westmeath Examiner. "I said to Chris that we can't let this thing die, so we are continuing it.
"I am glad we did. It's so popular, and it's for a great cause. People look forward to it every year. It's been very good from day one over 20 years ago.
"I’ve done 17 of them, and I look forward to it every year. It would never have happened, but I would have been disappointed if I didn't get that phone call from Billy asking if I’d do the concert."
Deputy Troy said it was "fantastic" that a group has come together to continue the tradition Billy Mac established.
"He was a huge supporter of Family Carers Ireland and was rightly recognised earlier this year for his work. It's important we pick up the baton. He has left a strong foundation for us to build on.
"The performers were really enthusiastic to keep it going. Hopefully, people will think about buying tickets as Christmas presents. Family Carers Ireland do fantastic work in Mullingar and the rest of Westmeath. Carers are saving the state a colossal amount of money every year by keeping people out of care homes and caring for them in their own homes, where they want to be."
Family Carers Ireland's National Lead for Partnerships and Innovation, Caroline Poole, said news of the concert’s return is a huge boost for the charity.
"It means an awful lot to family carers in the community. It’s not just the money that’s raised, which is obviously welcome, but it reminds everyone who carers are.
"Family carers are people who care for older people needing support, children with disabilities, people with mental health problems, and those with terminal illnesses.
"There are over half a million family carers in Ireland, and they need support. When carers need help, they need it immediately. Family carers often put themselves last because the focus is on the person they are caring for.
"That’s why it's so important to have an organisation advocating for carers, providing training and home respite. I’d advise any family carer in need to contact our local support manager, Amy Kelly, on 044 9347922."
Amy Kelly thanked Camillus Egerton, Chris Loughrey, and Deputy Troy for keeping the event going.
"This concert was inspired by Billy Mac, who worked so hard to fundraise for Family Carers Ireland. He is delighted the concert is continuing.
"I want to thank all the artists who have supported and been loyal to Family Carers Ireland in Mullingar over the years. Mullingar is a great community, and local businesses have always been very supportive of our events.
"The concert will raise vital funds, enabling us to continue supporting family carers who care for loved ones every day."
Tickets for the concert are available from the Family Carers Ireland office on Castle Street or The Greville Arms.