Swan Park Christmas market proposal to be brought before council

A Buncrana county councillor has called for the staging of a Christmas market in the town’s Swan Park.

Cllr Jack Murray is calling on Donegal County Council to explore running a market in the park, following the success of recent events there, including Halloween events last year.

The Sinn Féin councillor is to propose the hosting of a Christmas Market in the park at Monday’s meeting of Donegal County Council.

“I think it'd be an incredible place to host a Christmas Market and would generate a huge influx of visitors for such a unique experience,” he said.

“I've discussed this with a number of people and have decided to move a motion at Monday's full council meeting to seek support from other councillors to direct the executive to reach out to local businesses, community organisations, Fáilte Ireland, Donegal Tourism, Explore Inishowen, Local Development Companies and all other relevant stakeholders, to help facilitate the hosting of a Christmas Market at Swan Park.”

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He said he believes such a market would be a huge boost to the local economy and an enjoyable day out for local families, adding that while it might be ambitious to see the market happen in 2023, “I think it's definitely got potential for the years ahead”.

He said that since he floated the idea it has had an “overwhelming response”.

“A number of local businesses have contacted me and are extremely supportive of the idea - they want to be part of it and want to help make it happen. I see no reason why this cannot be a massive success.”