A number of Doonbeg business owners have dispelled concerns that the village wasn’t open for business during the Irish Open last week.
It follows reports of frustration among some locals that the village appeared ‘closed off’ due to the increased security presence.
Concerns from some locals that heightened security measures put in place to facilitate the visit of US President Donald Trump impacted footfall in the village over the weekend have been reported by the Irish Independent.
Traffic restrictions, the increased presence of Gardaí, along with the erection of barriers across the village, were all cited as issues preventing visitors from accessing Doonbeg.
After consulation between local stakeholders and Gardaí last Wednesday, however, a number of barriers were taken down.
Owner of McInerney’s Shop and Doonbeg Fianna Fáil councillor Rita McInerney says this alleviated most of the concerns and she believes overall the week went well.
The successful week could leave Doonbeg well placed to host more high-level events going forward.
Owner of Morrissey’s bar in Doonbeg, Eamonn Vaughan, claims both the Irish Open and Doonbeg Fáilte Fest exceeded expectations.
He believes the vast majority of visitors who came through his doors will return in the future.
You can listen to the full interview here:
