A COMMUNITY in Co Mayo has been left devastated after a horror blaze destroyed an iconic pub described as a “second home” to the area.
The High Chaparral pub, located in the Gaeltacht village of Geesala, suffered severe damage after a fire broke out at around 5am this morning.
No injuries were reported as a result of the blaze and the fire was brought under control the fire brigades who attended the scene.
It is understood the alarm was raised by a local man who spotted the fire on his way to work.
In a statement Gardai said: “Gardai received a report of a fire at a commercial premises in Gaoth Sáíle, Co Maigh Eo, at approximately 5am on Friday 7th February, 2025.
“The fire was brought under control by the Fire Brigade. No injuries were reported.
“A technical examination of the scene will be carried out. Enquiries ongoing.”
The pub is owned and ran by the Munnelly family
Local councillor Gerry Coyle took to social media to share his devastation following the incident, admitting that he has been left “lost for words” following the devastating fire.
He said: “I’m filled with sadness and regret that the High Chaparral Munnellys of Geesala, an iconic pub burnt to the ground last night.
“Thank god everyone is safe. A sad and stark reminder to us all of the power of fire.
“Some will say ‘it was only a pub’ but it was so much more, it was the central hub for community interaction, it was people’s gathering place, second home, safe place, maybe their only place for a friendly word all day, their warm place, their welcoming place, their community, a place that welcomed you in your moment of need be it a funeral or other sad occasion, a place to celebrate life, sporting victories, engagements and weddings.”
Cllr Coyle vowed that the memories within the walls of the iconic pub “will live on”, adding that a number of memorable occasions spring to mind when he thinks of the establishment.
He added: “To the entire Munnelly family – while today will no doubt weigh very heavy in your hearts, thank you to each and every one of you for all you’ve done for our community through the years.
“You are a family truly at the forefront and heart of our community and collectively as a community we stand with you in your sadness.”
The Fine Gael man told how he hopes that the High Chaparral will “rise from the ashes” again some day, adding: “We will again be greeted by the wonderful Munnelly family. Much more than a pub. Community.”
‘FAR MORE THAN JUST A LOCAL PUB’
And the local community in Mayo are equally devastated by the shock fire that has destroyed the establishment.
Taking to the comments of Gerry’s touching tribute one person wrote: “We all have great memories of the High Chaparral we grew up with it and was a place to go for the sad and happy times. Our thoughts are with you this morning.”
Another said: “Devastating for the family and like ya said the local community. It was far more than just the local pub.”
One person added: “For someone who has been coming ‘home’ on holiday all my life, this place has been such a huge part of mine and my families memories, with the constant that is the Munnelly family to welcome us. It has always been so much more than just a pub.
“My thoughts are with all of those impacted by this, especially the Munnelly family. I hope this is a phoenix which rises from the ashes.”
And another said: “The heart and soul of our little community. Much more than a pub. Thinking of each and every one of the Munnelly family.”