Ireland’s earliest Christmas sign highlights importance of toy safety checks

Posted on 18/05/09 by Paschal Mooney
MEP Candidate for the North West Constituency, Paschal Mooney (FF) came across Ireland's earliest - or latest - Christmas decoration while on the campaign trail in Co. Cavan over the weekend.
A large ‘Merry Christmas' sign is in full view along the main shopping thoroughfare of Cavan town.
While the sign is not illuminated at the moment, the message is still clear to see for all shoppers on Main Street.
"The ‘Merry Christmas' banner was an unusual sight to see in May," said Mr Mooney, "however, it was in keeping with the weather, which proved to be a winter wonderland.
"This will be one of the most enduring memories of our campaign trail in Co. Cavan and could become a novelty vistor attraction!
"This has to be Ireland's earliest Christmas sign and Cavan is the first to remind us of the number of days to go to Christmas - in the middle of May," said the former Senator and current Chairman of Failte Ireland North West.
Paschal Mooney was joined by Minister Brendan Smith and Senator Diarmuid Wilson, along with many local Town and County Councillors, on his EU election tour of Co. Cavan - and Senator Wilson reminded him that the sign shows it is "Christmas in Cavan everyday".
Meanwhile, Mr Mooney has called for higher toy safety checks on all toys entering the Irish market.
Last year, millions of toys had to be recalled across the EU after they breached safety standards.
"This is a serious health and safety issue and is a worry for every parent in the country," said Mr Mooney.
"Parents should be able to assume the product they buy is safe for their child to use.
"However, in many instances this has not been the case.
"Stores are quick to pull toys from the shelf if they in any way faulty, but we need to prevent this from happening in the first place.
"I don't have to stress the dangers associated with poor quality toys.
"The EU is currently strengthening and updating their system for checking that all toy imports coming into Europe comply with safety standards.
"The majority of toys are manufactured in China and the EU is working closely with the Chinese Government to improve and update its laws regulating the manufacture of toys.
"This is crucial in order to protect Irish parents and their children," he said.