COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE RELATING TO EPSTEIN FLOAT DEPICTING R@PE OF MINORS
This post is for those wishing to formally complain about the vile "Epstein Files" float that appeared in the Ballinrobe St. Patrick's Day parade depicting someone being raped on a bed and someone being chased (making light of child rape and abuse, SRA etc).
A statement was released (see below) but was ONLY released 2 hours ago, AFTER the backlash. Why not before? If indeed they did not approve? We have added a lovely comment from someone who commented under the statement...if we can joke about and THEREFORE accept evil acts being committed against children and recreate these acts for "fun" then we are truly lost as a society. This is insulting to every adult or child who has ever experienced sexual violence. Being accused of being "dramatic" about being rightly opposed to this float is a remarkable statement (from a non Irish person).
Similar floats reportedly appeared at parades like Headford and Shrule. here are the most relevant places to direct your concerns, based on recent coverage and statements: Ballinrobe St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee (primary organisers).
The committee has publicly stated they had no prior knowledge of the float, it was not approved or sanctioned, and they condemn any form of abuse, exploitation, or violence (including against children). They described themselves as "just as deflated and shocked" as the community (some people can however be heard laughing) and the committee must have had some knowledge that the tractor and trailer would not have been able to choose the procession without being seen
Contact them via their official Facebook page: "Ballinrobe St Patrick's Day Parade" (they post updates, seek volunteers, and share parade info there—it's the main public channel). You can message them directly or comment on recent posts about the controversy.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079681140007
This is the best starting point, as they are directly responsible for parade oversight and have already responded to backlash in media interviews (e.g., on RTÉ's LiveLine and local outlets like Mayo News). Mayo County Council (local authority).
Parades often require permits for road closures, traffic management, or public events. Even if the float "snuck in" unapproved, the council handles broader public event complaints, especially regarding appropriateness in family-oriented public spaces.
Submit a complaint via their official website: mayo.ie (look for "Contact Us," "Report a Problem," or "Customer Service" sections—many councils have online forms for public events or community issues).
https://www.mayo.ie/en-ie/home
Áras an Chontae The Mall Castlebar Co. Mayo F23 WF90 Phone: +353 94 906 4000
Complaints Procedure "Our Customer Charter defines the standards which you can expect to receive. If you feel you are not receiving these standards, you can notify us formally in writing or by clicking on the Contact Us (https://www.mayo.ie/en-ie/your-council/governance-and-democracy/customer-care/contact-us) link on this page. You may also e-mail info@mayo.ie stating your name, the nature of the complaint and what department you were dealing with. Excluded areas include where formal appeal/complaint procedures already exist, e.g. where you can appeal to An Bord Pleanála, or where you can request an Internal Review and/or appeal to the Information Commissioner under the Freedom of Information.
It is important that every attempt is made in the relevant section or office to resolve any issues from where they originated so your first point of contact should be there. A member of staff not previously involved in your case will consider the complaint and look to resolve it with you. If the matter cannot be resolved in that office, you may set out the complaint in full and in writing to: Director of Services Corporate Development & HR Mayo County Council Áras an Chontae Castlebar County Mayo F23 WF90 Our offices are open between 9.30am and 1.00pm and 2.00pm and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday excluding Public Holidays].