While a success, he thinks the new February bank holiday will be more beneficial.
The new bank holiday in February will allow the hospitality industry to extend its season.
That's according to the president of Athlone Chamber of Commerce, amid debate over whether the new holiday should coincide with St. Patrick's Day every year.
Alan Shaw admits last weekend was a huge success for business - but thinks a new holiday in spring would benefit hotels during the off-season:
Westmeath Army Barracks To Benefit From Increased Defence Funding
The project has been allocated €1.4m.
Midlands Children Raise Over €19k On National Pyjama Day
The donations will go to autism support and eco-education initiatives.
Gardaí Investigating After Two Or Three Men Involved In Laois Burglary
The incident occurred yesterday afternoon.
Report Finds Laois Town Can Be "More Than The Electric Picnic Site"
The report is looking at the town's viability for tourism.
"Sustainability Is The Way Forward" - New Refill Mill Owner
Kim Darby took over the store yesterday.
People With Disabilities Suffering A 'Silent' Housing Crisis - Irish Wheelchair Association
It's calling on the Government to provide support for people with disabilities.
Over €3m Granted For Road Repairs In The Midlands
€40m has been announced for works across the country.
Hosting Refugee Roadshow Coming To Offaly
The event is hosted by the Helping Irish Hosts.
Teenage Unaccompanied Learner Driver Caught Travelling Twice The Speed Limit
Their vehicle has been seized.
Investigation Launched Following Laois Burglary
Gardaí are asking witnesses or anyone with information to contact them.
Land Prices Are Set To Slump After Months Of Rain
Teagasc and the Society of Chartered Surveyors have released their Agricultural Land Market Review.
'Push For Paul' Fundraiser Running Through Westmeath And Offaly Today
Paul's family and friends are seeking to raise funds, and awareness about Mitochondrial Myopathy.
Former Westmeath Psychiatric Hospital Could Have New Purpose
Refugee accommodation is one of the uses being considered.
Over Half Of Total Turbines Installed At Midlands Windfarm
It's expected to be fully operational by early next year.
"Injury, Death And Trauma" Results Of Dog Attacks On Sheep Flocks
There is a new campaign underway to urge people to be aware of their dogs at all times.
Communities Urged To Register Defibrillators In Their Area
650 are currently in the midlands alone.
Gardaí Investigating After Thrown Rock Damages Laois Car
It happened on the M7 yesterday.
Sunny Weather To Continue Over Next Few Days
Today is set to be the warmest day of the week.
Classic Cars Coming To Westmeath In Aid Of Charity
The event is in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation.
Unaccompanied Learner Driver Arrested For Speeding 50Km/h Over Limit
The Laois Roads Policing Unit stopped the motorist on Saturday.
