Family-run businesses in Castlebar and Westport are staying optimistic as they fight against what they feel is a lack of official support
Helena Parsons has a treat every Saturday morning: solving The Irish Times crossword as she stands behind the counter of her family-run boutique in Castlebar , Co Mayo . She may be the face of Don Racine, her well-known business family’s destination shop – particularly for mothers of the bride and older women – but her mother, Margaret, is still the matriarch.
As she and her two brothers grew up, their parents decided to branch out on their own. In 1981, Don Racine was opened by Michelle Rocca, who was Miss Ireland at the time. Helena, an optimist despite the many contemporary challenges, is also realistic and well-used to booms and busts. The ethos among shopkeepers is supportive, but Helena feels the county council could do more to support shops that are key to the integrity of the town.
It all started when the late John O’Brien and his young wife, Colette, opened a pub and grocery shop on Altamont Street, above which their eight children were reared. Mary says it was around this time the Americans and German sea anglers began to visit Westport as a number of family-run hotels and restaurants began to open.
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