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Don’t Let Summer Slip Away
We have been blessed with the wonderful summer sunshine this year and the area of Fingal looks more beautiful than ever thanks to the efforts of locals in their respective areas! And while the summer heat is still with us, the evenings are just a little shorter now. Autumn is waiting in the wings, but before it arrives, there is still time to make the most of what remains of summer.
For many families, these are the final weeks to enjoy a well-earned break. Whether it’s a last-minute staycation, a few days by the seaside or a holiday abroad, the “last gasp” of summer offers an opportunity to step away from the pressures of everyday life. It is a chance to recharge, spend quality time together and create memories that will be talked about long after the leaves begin to fall. Summer is also reunion season. Many family members who live apart return home during the warmer months to gather around the barbecue, celebrate milestones or simply catch up over a cup of tea in the garden. In a world where everyone seems to be constantly
rushing from one commitment to the next, these moments are more valuable than ever. Yet, for many households, thoughts are already turning to the return to school. Parents are checking uniform sizes, children are choosing new school bags and teachers are preparing classrooms. While the end of the holidays can bring mixed emotions, it also marks the beginning of new opportunities, fresh ambitions and renewed routines.
The seasons will always change, and autumn will arrive soon enough. But until then, let’s enjoy what Summer has left to offer and make as many long-lasting memories as possible. Whether it’s enjoying a walk along one of the many wonderful coastal areas of Fingal, or enjoying some of the wonderful upcoming festivals, there is still plenty to make the most of August!
The Locals Team
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If you ever need assistance or want any issues raised with Fingal County Council, please do not hesitate to contact me using my contact details above.
I post regular updates on the work I’m doing in the area on my social media channels. My Instagram username is: Cllr.EoghanDockrell.
Or if you’d like to be part of my email newsletter where I give updates on Council projects progressing in Donabate and Portrane, please let me know by sending me a short email.
Donabate Portrane Summer Festival
My email newsletter also includes information on events happening in the area. One example is the upcoming Donabate Portrane Summer Festival, which is on from Friday 7th of August to Sunday the 9th of August and takes place on Portrane Green.
This is a brilliant weekend with lots of entertainment, from amusement rides and musical acts to a farmers’ market and craft fair with the weekend finishing with a fireworks display.
STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION:
Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition
Lambay Cinema Club launches new programme
During the Summer break, the Lambay Cinema Club is working hard to create our 2026/2027 programme. We are continually on the lookout for films from across the world that never or rarely get shown in local commercial cinemas.
We return on Thursday Sept 17th and will announce the season opening film soon. To mark our 4th year we will be introducing Audience Choice – where you get to pick the film for our December screening. Details will be announced in September.
In the past three years we have shown films from across Europe, Middle East and The Americas, and have also screened well known and less well known Irish Movies. As a committee we discuss films we have discovered and work to build a varied and entertaining schedule of films.
As we enter our fourth year, this is time to recognise those that are fundamental to our success. Obviously at the heart of it all are our loyal and growing audience who appreciate the ability to see world class cinema without having to leave the peninsula.
We would not have films to screen if it was not for access>CINEMA. Their nationwide network of over 70 local organisations including independent cinemas, film festivals and voluntary-film film societies such as Lambay Cinema Club.
The aim of the access>CINEMA network is to facilitate and increase access to a wider choice of movies to screen locally in non-mainstream or commercial venues by ensuring we can affordably license the movies we want.
Our contacts at Access are also an invaluable source of information and advice as well as giving us an opportunity to meet with similar movie clubs and view new releases.
The other key ingredient of our success is
the support we get from St Patrick’s Church of Ireland church in The Square. We work closely with them to ensure a successful screening and allow us to take over the church for afternoon set up and evening performance. We would not be successful without their support.
To find out more about our Autumn season and keep up to date with our programme, visit lambaycinemaclub.com
Garda Community Engagement & Permanent Resources for Donabate
I have received confirmation from An Garda Síochána that the Garda Community Engagement Initiative commenced in Donabate on 26th June and will continue every second Friday throughout the summer as part of Operation Irene in response to representations made by myself and Duncan Smith TD. This initiative provides an important opportunity for residents to raise concerns, seek advice, and speak directly with Gardaí in an accessible, local setting.
The Garda Community Engagement Vehicle will be in the Parish Hall car park every second Friday from 6–9pm until the end of August, and I would strongly encourage anyone with issues or concerns to drop in and speak with the Community Gardaí.
As part of this initiative, there will also be an increased Garda presence around the town centre and across the wider peninsula over the summer months. I want to thank Superintendent Barry, Inspector Clune and our Community Gardaí for their continued support and for the increased patrols in the area.
However, while this engagement initiative is welcome, it does not replace the need for permanent Garda resources
in Donabate. Over the past year, I have received a significant increase in calls from resident, often daily, reporting incidents of anti social behaviour, including threats, damage to property, doors being kicked, and recent arson attacks on public amenities. Many residents are understandably fearful, and the current level of Garda resourcing is not sufficient for a town of our size.
The DMR North district now has fewer Gardaí than in 2009, despite a dramatically larger population. Within the next few years, Donabate will be the third largest town in North County Dublin, with a population exceeding 20,000. Permanent Garda resources are required in the immediate short term, and a Garda station will be essential in the long term.
Duncan Smith TD and I have been persistently raising this matter with the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice. While national recruitment plans are welcome, Donabate needs dedicated Gardaí on a permanent basis and a Garda station to serve our growing community. We will continue to press for the resources and infrastructure that Donabate needs and deserves and will keep you informed of developments.
Quiet July for Men’s Shed apart from Bustling Activity at Allotments
With our regular weekly exercise classes and Thursday morning get-togethers suspended and only Tuesday morning croquet continuing, July threatened to be a relatively quiet month for members of Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed. However, the flurry of activity at our plots at Turvey Allotments more than made up for the inactivity elsewhere. Members were kept busy with the shared daily tasks of watering, feeding, weeding and harvesting the impressive range of plants being grown, including tomatoes, potatoes, onions, garlic, courgettes, peas, rhubarb, grapes, lavender, gooseberries, cucumbers and cherries. Ant powder and slug pellets were laid, potatoes were sprayed to protect from blight and, not resting on their laurels, members
replaced old fencing with recycled and treated pallets.
Gerry and the Plonkers, the Men’s Shed music group, continued their involvement in community projects by playing for an appreciative audience at Swords Memory Café held in Fingallians’ GAA Club and look forward to playing on Saturday 8th August at the Donabate Portrane Summer Festival.
Our full range of regular weekly activities resumes this month. So, we’re always open to new members joining us. If you or someone close to you might be interested in joining us, don’t be afraid to take the first step by contacting Jim, our PRO, on 086-3694416. We look forward to meeting you.
Plonkers playing at Memory Café in Fingallians
Active Age for All fun Croquet Day! Commnuity News
Active Age for All held their annual Fun Croquet Day in Newbridge Park on Wednesday 24th June this year and we were delighted to welcome guests from the Newbridge House Croquet Club and Donabate Men’s Shed to join us.
The weather was beautiful, the lawns in tip-top condition (many thanks to the Newbridge Park groundsmen) and the game playing went very smoothly. Everybody got to play two games before we had to whittle down to the final rounds. While battle went on in ever decreasing numbers those on the sidelines were free to enjoy the refreshments, have a chat and maybe play some silly croquet like ‘Pot the Wellie’.
The grand final was played by: Peter Dempsey (AAfA), Eugene McKenna (NHCC), John McIntyre (NHCC) & Raymond McGuigan (NHCC) Peter Dempsey carried the day for Active Age. Well done Peter!
The AAfA committee are busy preparing for the autumn term commencing middle of September. We will have a table in the Donabate Mall on Friday 21st August 10am to 4pm so come along and say hello and get all the details for the coming term. If you have yet to join us we would be delighted to meet you.
History of Donabate / Portrane Collection on display
A historical society in Donabate & Portrane was first established in 1948 but became inactive in 1955. It was reactivated in 1972 by Mr Peadar Bates of Donabate and continues to this day. The aim of the society is the collection of information on the peninsula as to the customs, stories and incidents of the ancient, medieval and modern times to complete a written history of the area.
The Donabate/Portrane historical society has regular meetings, times and dates of which will be posted on social media and website, anyone interested is welcome to attend. Talks and presentations are also arranged several times a year,
information available as before, and all are welcome.
The society Local History Museum is located in the courtyard of Newbridge House and is open every Saturday & Sunday (+ bank holidays) from 2 to 4pm, entry is free. The museum provides a wonderful window into the past of the peninsula containing artefacts and images of life in rural Donabate and Portrane, and the ‘big’ houses of the area. Well worth a visit! For information please contact: Donald Henderson 087-2610164 Copies of Peadar Bates book available in the museum, or call 087-2397608
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Need ideas for summer days out?
The EPIC Irish Immigration Museum is an award winning interactive, immersive experience. Perfect for all age groups. With 5 star visitor reviews, it’s a must see.
Dublinia welcomes you to the heart of Viking and Medieval Dublin. Travel back to the heart of the old city at Christchurch. Walk where Vikings walked, step into Medieval Dublin, find out about Dublin’s rich past and climb an original Medieval tower!
The Wax Museum Plus in Dublin has a special summer offer, family entrance for only €50, that’s 20% off! Interactive and fun, it’s great to visit.
For lunch on family days out, we love Shake Dog. Yummy hotdogs, burgers, shakes & more. Family friendly and affordable. To win Shake Dog vouchers, go to mams.ireland FB!
Visiting Dublin city? We recommend staying at Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan. 5 min walk to beach. 5 mins to train station and only 30 minutes by train to Dublin City.
Irish National Stud is another fantastic day out. Meet the baby foals, follow the fairy trail, have a delicious lunch and let the kids run free!
For family getaways, Farnham Estate has a stunning spa, woodland walks, indoor/outdoor pool and award-winning dining. Our children love the pancakes at breakfast The Tomahawk steak for couples is an amazing dining
experience!
Bounce n Beyond Ballyboughal has trampolines, soft play area and a Sensory Room. Let the kids bounce themselves tired!
The Gem Treatery Balbriggan has play area, acai bowls, crepés, sandwiches, coffee and multiple ice-cream flavours, including whipped for 99‘s! We had my nephew’s birthday party there. With a dedicated hostess, games and cake decorating, it was brill!
For Back To School we highly recommend personalised products! www. wanapix.ie water bottles, backpacks and pencil cases can be personalised with your child’s name, and they can choose the colour & style! Use code MAMSWANAPIX26 for 10% off.
For school uniforms, coats etc. MyNametags labels and stickers are superb. Personalise with your child’s name and your number and if anything’s misplaced, you’ll hopefully get it back. Cheaper than buying replacements! Back to school is super busy for Mammies, so we’re giving away Charlotte Tilbury, Flormar & Gionni goodies for you amazing gals. Enter at: FB: https://www.facebook.com/mams.ireland/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mams.ie/?hl=en And www.mams.ie
Digital Scams Have Not Gone Away
By Dave Kavanagh
Despite every financial institution, news outlet, vloggers and even dedicated TV shows all constantly warning us how to avoid a variety of scams, not only are they still being attempted but they are still catching people out, with reported payment fraud estimated in Ireland of €160 million per year (based on 2024). Of course, many scams go unreported so it is most likely the figure is much higher than this. The scams range from simple text messages, either trying to persuade you to click on a hyperlink, or pretending to be one of your children who has a new phone number and needs you to send them money, to phone calls pretending to be your internet service provider, your credit/debit card company or an online store such as Amazon. There are also texts and emails needing you to pay a small customs charge on a delivery. Remember, if scammers send out 20,000 of these texts, there’s bound to be a number of people who are expecting a delivery, or have had a recent internet connection problem etc., so it makes them more convincing to some. So what can you do to minimise the risk of being scammed? Firstly, if in any doubt, do not click on hyperlinks, no matter how genuine they appear. You could be downloading malware or giving scammers access to your digital device. If you’re concerned, contact the real company
through the usual methods of contact that you have (not one that is given to you by scammers!). If you receive a phone call from someone who claims to be from one of the types of companies listed above, firstly, do not give away any information at all. If they say they are calling from Eir, do not say “but we’re with Vodafone”. You’re just giving them additional information to use to call you again in a couple of months. Ask them any questions you think relevant, then end the call and contact the company directly. The main thing is to be vigilant and cautious of unexpected contact.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@ financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_ advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
You can relax with Nolan & Fahey
WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!!
This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@gmail.com before 5pm on September 16. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win €50..Good luck!
Across
1 Citizen of ‘The Floating City.’! (8)
6 Leaving hurriedly and secretly to avoid arrest. (10)
13 A foolish or stupid person. (5)
14 Restore an emirate to life, revive. (9)
15 Country with 8 out of 10 of the world’s highest mountains. (5)
16 Pariah, persona non grata. (7)
18 The A in A.D. (4)
19 A raised platform for a lectern, seats of honour etc. (4)
20 A sharp, shrill bark. (3)
22 A fruit with a hard shell and edible kernel. (3)
23 Jewelled ornamental band worn on the front of a woman’s hair. (5)
25 A place where a wild animal lives. (4)
27 Elegantly and stylishly fashionable. (4)
30 A dish of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese. (6)
31 Full of incessant or frantic activity. (6)
33 European country, capital is Tirana. (7)
34 Ask Ho about the cylindrical military hat. (5)
35 Day to get hammered with a Norse god. (4)
36 Give up power or territory. (4)
37 Pretends to sing or play an instrument as a song is being played. (5)
40 Trembles slightly with cases for arrows. (7)
41 Awkward in movement or in handling things. (6)
42 Type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow. (6)
44 A thought or opinion. (4)
45 Makes a mistake. (4)
46 A dish of pieces of meats, fish or vegetables roasted or grilled on a skewer. (5)
48 Large passenger vehicle. (3)
50 A small child. (3)
52 Presenting few difficulties. (4)
54 Affected or damaged by use. (4)
56 A tendency to do nothing. (7)
59 Honest, brave and kind or having a high rank in society. (5)
60 Singing performed without instruments. (1,8)
61 Canadian flag tree. (5)
62 This Duke was the second Irishman to be Prime Minister of Britain. (10)
63 Boats designed to keep harbour and rivers clear from obstructions. (8)
Down
2 An official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority. (5)
3 Consume. (3)
4 Exasperate, nettle, provoke. (8)
5 Group of three waterfalls between Canada and the USA. (7)
6 A being from another world. (5)
7 A dishonest scheme, a fraud. (4)
8 “... is where a guy gets stabbed in the back, and instead of dying, he sings.” (Robert Benchley) (5)
9 Nationality and pastry. (6)
10 Able to move quickly, chilly. (5)
11 Large, luxurious cars, often with a chauffeur. (10)
12 Medical term for spot baldness. (8)
17 Ranters moo at the sky examiner. (10)
21 Slowly moving masses of ice. (8)
22 Fuzzless variety of peach. (9)
24 Divisions of plays. (4)
26 A visual representation of something. (5)
28 “The ... Tale,” by Margaret Atwood. (9)
29 Very bad, terrible, like a mythical snowman perhaps. (10)
32 A person who expels evil spirits from others. (8)
35 Non-lethal weapon delivering an electric shock. (5)
38 Forced someone to join a ship lacking a full crew. (10)
39 Entertain in public in the hope of donations. (4)
40 Giving up, leaving a place or job permanently. (8)
43 Renounce one’s throne. (8)
47 Carried out a task clumsily or incompetently, made a hames of it! (7)
49 Cause something to be seen. (6)
51 A piece of furniture for eating or working at. (5)
53 Mark or discolour with something that is not easily removed. (5)
55 Major Sir William Newenham Montague ..., famous Irish artists. (5)
57 A slender candle, a gradual narrowing. (5)
58 Breathe with short, quick breaths after exertion. (4)
61 A person’s face on a large cup! (3)
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