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Community Coming Together for Christmas
As the crisp November air settles over Fingal, locals in the towns and villages begin to glow with anticipation for the festive season. From the bustling streets of Swords and Balbriggan to picturesque Malahide, Donabate, Rush&Lusk, local businesses and community groups are already gearing up to make this Christmas one to remember.
In towns across Fingal, shopfronts are dressing up with twinkling lights, while markets and craft fairs offer the perfect opportunity to find locally made gifts. Supporting these local traders not only keeps the area’s economy thriving but also strengthens the sense of community that makes Fingal so special.
November is also a time for connection and giving back. Fingal County Council and local community centres host a variety of volunteer and charity initiatives — from food bank collections to Christmas tree planting and tidy-town efforts. Residents are encouraged to get involved, whether by joining a local clean-up, helping decorate village greens, or donating to local causes.
Cultural events add extra sparkle, with choir performances, winter markets, and family-friendly gatherings filling calendars throughout the month. Libraries and arts centres across Fingal also offer festive workshops, story times, and craft sessions, bringing people together in creativity and celebration.
As Fingal prepares for Christmas, the focus remains on community spirit — on neighbours supporting one another, businesses helping local causes, and everyone doing their part to make the season bright. November in Fingal is more than just a prelude to Christmas; it’s a reminder that the heart of the holidays lies in coming together.
Locals Team
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STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition
The
Minister for Education Helen McEntee Visits Hedgestown NS
The pupils and staff of Hedgestown National School were delighted to welcome Minister for Education Helen McEntee and her team to their school on Thursday, 9th October.
The Minister was accompanied by Fine Gael Fingal T.D. Grace Boland, Fine Gael Councillor Eoghan Dockrell, and Councillor Tom O’Leary, Lord Mayor of Fingal. Also in attendance were Lusk Parish Priest Father Kevin Moore and Chairperson of the Board of Management Liam Fitzgerald.
The purpose of the visit was to tour the school’s new two-storey building, officially opened in 2024, and to mark the recent establishment of two new autism classes — Solas Glas and Solas Buí.
Principal Damien O’Donoghue led the Minister and guests on a tour of the school, showcasing its modern classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and impressive facilities, including the school hall and on-site crèche and childcare services provided by ToddleIn Crèche and Montessori. Minister McEntee cut a ribbon to commemorate the occasion and visited the new sensory room, where she met several students from the Solas classes.
During her visit, the Minister also spent time in the mainstream classrooms. Pupils in Mr. Bund’s 5th and 6th class impressed her with their knowledge of the election process — knowledge gained from the recent Student Council elections, in which students from 2nd to 6th class participated by voting on
ballot papers following nominee speeches. The Minister also enjoyed a musical performance from the class, which included a group tin whistle recital and individual performances on the harp and guitar.
The next stop was Mr. Hagan’s 2nd, 3rd, and 4th class, where pupils confidently recited a poem and asked the Minister thoughtful questions about political life — including one particularly popular query: “Who has the authority to decide there is no more homework !?”
Finally, the Minister visited Ms. Bentley’s classroom, where Junior Infants to 1st Class showcased their Irish language skills. When asked what advice they would give the Minister’s own child, who will start primary school next year, the pupils eagerly offered helpful and heartfelt suggestions.
Speaking after the visit, Principal Damien O’Donoghue expressed his gratitude:
“We were honoured to welcome Minister McEntee and her colleagues to Hedgestown National School. It was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to learn more about government and civic responsibility, while also sharing the fantastic progress and spirit of our rural school community.”
Hedgestown National School would like to extend its sincere thanks to Minister McEntee and all visiting representatives for taking the time to engage with the pupils and staff. The visit provided an inspiring insight into public service and leadership for the entire school community.
Principal Damien O’Donoghue, Minister Helen McEntee and Deputy Principal Lora Morrin
Recently elected student council members pose alongside Minister McEntee and Grace Boland TD.
L-R Liam Fitzgerald, Grace Boland TD, Principal Damien O’Donoghue, Minister Helen McEntee, Deputy Principal Lora Morrin, Cllr. Tom O’Leary (Mayor of Fingal ) and Cllr. Eoghan Dockrell.
The Lark at The Irish Institute of Music & Song: Enriching the Community Through Music
In just a few short years, the Irish Institute of Music & Song (IIMS) has transformed Balbriggan into one of Ireland’s most exciting cultural hubs. As a not-for-profit organisation, the IIMS is dedicated to making high-quality music education and experiences accessible to everyone of all ages and from beginner to professional. The mission of the IIMS is simple - to enrich lives through music while celebrating creativity, inclusion and community.
At the heart of the IIMS campus is the multi award-winning Lark Concert Hall, which was voted Ireland’s Favourite New Building of 2024.
Since opening in November 2023, The Lark has become a beacon for the arts in Fingal. Through concerts, workshops, and events, it connects local audiences with world-class performers while supporting educational programmes for local and international students.
Each year, the IIMS delivers over 100,000 hours of music tuition and welcomes tens of thousands of visitors through performances, school programmes, and community initiatives. From early-years classes and intergenerational events to the innovative Traditional Music Access
Illegal waste collectors and illegal dumping awareness campaign Launched
Fingal County Council Waste Enforcement Section has initiated a campaign to help raise awareness about illegal waste collectors and illegal dumping.
Illegal waste collectors use social media and advertising sites to offer cheap waste removal services with the waste ending up being dumped in remote areas causing environmental pollution. Every year Local Authorities spend thousands of euro on clean up costs to remove illegally dumped waste, money which could be better spent on improving public services within local communities. Before handing over your
waste, always ask for ID and to see a copy of their waste collection permit which can be checked on the National Waste Collection Permit Office website at www.nwcpo.ie. No permit, then they’re not authorised to collect waste. Don’t risk getting a €150 fine or a criminal conviction if found guilty in Court.
As part of this awareness campaign a short advert has been developed which is being shown across 5 different cinemas over these months (Swords, Balbriggan, Charlestown, Blanchardstown and Santry) to highlight the issues around illegal waste collectors and the damage that’s
caused by illegal dumping.
We all have a responsibility to manage our waste and to protect the environment for future generations. Our key aim is to encourage and educate individuals to make the right choices regarding their waste and to participate in authorised waste collection services.
If householders know of anyone offering these ‘Man in a Van’ services, please contact environment@fingal.ie or Tel: 01 8906799.
Programme, the IIMS strives for music education accessibility.
The Lark’s events play a vital role in sustaining the not-for-profit model of the IIMS, enabling income to fund community outreach, scholarships, and artist residencies. The IIMS has a vibrant vision for arts within the region, a place where music education, performance, and inclusion come together to create lasting cultural and social harmony.
www.irishinstituteofmusic.com www.thelark.ie
Illegal dumping is costly. It threatens our environment. Let’s all take responsibility. #StopIllegalDumping Report Illegal Dumping Call: 01 890 5000 Email: environment@fingal.ie YOUR COUNTY. YOUR WASTE?
The videos are available on Youtube - https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=H_Hi1hhzPFE and will form part of a Social Media Campaign.
The Black Raven of Lusk – A Community Landmark
A few wonderful photos from Pat Kelly’s archive showing the installation and unveiling of the Black Raven statue on the Dublin Road roundabout in 2005.
This striking piece was commissioned by Lusk Tidy Towns and created by artist Bríd Ní Rinn – one of many projects that have helped shape the look and spirit of our town.
The Black Raven has long been a symbol of Lusk and Fingal. It was said to have been captured from the Norse at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, brought back to Lusk, and has been part of our story ever since.
In Irish Mythology The Morrigan, a Celtic goddess of war, fate, and sovereignty, is strongly associated with the Raven because of her ability to shapeshift into a Raven to observe and influence battles.
The statue is just one example of what Lusk Tidy Towns do for our community.
For over 40 years they have been involved in: Commissioning public art;
installing benches and street furniture; keeping our town clean and beautiful; leading biodiversity and sustainability projects with local, national and even international partners.
They have also been at the centre of much of our community’s social life throughout these years.
Everything they do is volunteer led, by people who give anything from a couple of hours a month upwards. Whether it’s project management, planting, litter picking, installing Barn Owl boxes, or simply helping with events, every little effort adds up.
All the beautiful things we see around Lusk happen because local people care enough to make them happen.
If you recognise anybody in the photos let us know. Email: tidytownslusk@gmail.com
Courtesy Lusk Tidy Towns.
Small Benefit Exemption For Your Staff
By Dave Kavanagh
From 1st January 2025, employers can provide up to five, small, non-cash benefits per employee per year, with a combined value of up to €1,500, free of PAYE, PRSI and USC. To qualify, benefits must not be in cash, must not be redeemable (in part or full) for cash, and must be something used to buy goods or services.
So, what type of options/cards qualify to be used for this? Store-specific or multi-store gift vouchers/cards that are used to buy goods/ services and cannot be exchanged for cash. E.g. a gift card for a department store, or supermarket, or a retailer. Closed-loop gift cards (cards valid in certain stores or groups of stores) used only to purchase goods/services. Tangible non-cash gifts (e.g. objects, hampers, items) which are similar in value to vouchers, again provided they are used to buy goods/services or are themselves goods. Non-cash benefit cards such as gift cards that are structured so that they are not redeemable for cash or usable like a debit card with direct cash extraction capability.
Options that do not qualify include cards that are redeemable for cash (or partially usable as cash). For example, any gift or “card” that allows the holder to withdraw cash, or exchange for cash. Prepaid debit cards or “spend anywhere” cards if their terms allow the card to be used like
cash / cash-equivalent (e.g. ATM withdrawals etc.). If the card is effectively redeemable for or convertible into cash, the revenue rules treat it as a cash benefit and it loses the exemption. Any bonus or benefit provided via payroll or via salary sacrifice. These must be provided outside payroll and not deducted from salary.
With the recent budget not being exceptionally generous to workers, this is a great way to both reward employees without having to tax them further and also benefit employers as gifts are tax deductible.
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.
Lusk ICA Ladies enjoy another
Councilor Eoghan Dockrell chatted to Madeline Clinton
Mary Hassett and Mary Hickey
What a busy month of hard work and fun the Ladies in Lusk ICA had for September and October.
The sports group enjoyed a great bowling night out recently in ALSAA organized by Teresa Killoran. Maria Baird was Presented by Teresa Killoran for a first place; Pauline Flynn came second, and Angela O’Brien came third.
A big thanks to all the ladies who served Tea and Biscuits in the School on Sunday 12th October after the 11.30am Commemoration Mass celebrating the Centenary of St MacCullins Church
Congratulations to Mary Shortall and her ICA colleagues from Dublin Federation who came 3rd at National Pitch and Putt competition in Seapoint. Beautiful afternoon tea was enjoyed in the Grand Hotel in Malahide organized by Mary Hickey.
Once again thanks to Mary Hickey for organizing a magical experience to Neven Maguire’s wonderful restaurant in Black Lion.
Our thanks to Antoinette Doran and Rosanna Darby and all the team who worked so hard in raising funds for our annual coffee morning in aid of the hospice. Thanks again to everyone who helped and supported us, to Conrad Murray Top Shop, and we are not forgetting all the very kind and generous donations for our Raffle from all the local businesses in Lusk - the final total raised was €3,320.00.
Finally, our Drama group travelled to Ballyheigue County Kerry where we all had a fun weekend of art, dancing, and food. Thanks to Anne Smithers for her hard work arranging it.
Saying Goodbye: One of the Hardest Decisions By Dr. Carla Lluch, Veterinary Practitioner
One of the hardest decisions we face as pet parents is knowing when it’s time to let them go. As a veterinary professional who has also gone through this personally, I can tell you: there is no universal answer. Every case, every family, and every pet is different. What matters is that the decision is made in the best interest of the animal. We’re here to guide you through that moment, to help you make the most compassionate and informed choice. So don’t hesitate to reach out once, twice, or 300 times if you need to. We understand how difficult it is, and we are here to help.
Watching our pets grow old is a privilege. And having the power to decide when it’s time to say goodbye is a final act of love.
When we make that decision, it’s for them, but also for us. To be at peace with ourselves, knowing we did everything possible to make their time with us joyful.
We often ask the same questions, but the answers are unique to every animal:
Do they still enjoy walks?
If your dog never really liked walks and preferred the sofa, that’s not a good measure. But if they used to run happily through the park and now refuse to go out, that’s a sign something’s wrong.
Do they still seek affection and company?
Wanting cuddles is a sign of well-being. A cat who hides and wants to be alone may be telling us that something has changed.
Do they still have an appetite?
Food is often a great indicator. At a certain age, and if their health allows, we can bend the rules a bit. If your dog wants fries from McDonald’s and it makes them happy, that’s okay. But if they’re no longer even smelling their food, maybe their body is telling us it’s time.
It’s not just about age or a diagnosis, it’s about their quality of life.
Veterinarians, nurses, and every member of the clinic team are both professionally and personally prepared to support you through this. Please, don’t hesitate to reach out as many times as it takes. We’re here to help you make the most compassionate decision possible.
Guide Dogs Fundraiser to be held in Lusk
On Tuesday morning 4th of November in skinny batch Coffee Shop Lusk a fundraising coffee morning will be held to raise money for the Balbriggan\North County Dublin Branch of Irish guide Dogs for the blind.
Running from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm, there will be guide dogs Xmas cards, 2026 calendars for sale and a car raffle ticket costing euro5 each to win a Ford Puma later in the year
All money raised goes for the training of guide dogs for blind people and assistance dogs for children with Autism. All involved in this fundraiser are total volunteers and we wish to thank Sharyn Hayden of Skinny Batch Food Ltd Lusk and her team for organizing this lovely
event.
Should any reader of this article wish to volunteer with the branch or indeed become a puppy raiser from the readership of this article please contact us on below details. We can never have enough volunteers and without puppy raisers no guide or assistance dog can be trained. We need you.
More details on www.guidedogs.ie To contact our branch of guide dogs’ email guidedogsbalbriggan@gmail.com or call 0857663107.
Tom O’Neill, guide dog owner and co-chair of the branch
Lusk Senior Citizens Committee Thanks
Theresa Murphy – Chairperson On behalf of Lusk Senior Citizens Committee said: “I would like to thank everyone who came out on a very wet Saturday to support our vegetable sale. A very big thank you to all the local farmers who very generously donated all the vegetables, fruit and plants. It was a very successful day.”
What a Fantastic Autumn for Lusk AC Members
Congratulations to all club members who completed one of the autumn marathons including the Dublin City Marathon. Also well done to all who have represented the club in one of the recent cross-country events. We were thrilled to present some of our athletes with hard fought medals won at Dublin Road Races. Niamh Coughlan won F35 Gold at both the Dublin 10 mile and the F35 Half Marathon while Dara Harford won F40 Silver at the Dublin 5k. There were also team medals for Sarah Farrell, Julie Griffith and Sarah Moore (F50 Bronze at the Dublin Half) and Emma Przymusinska, Dara Harford, Geraldine McHale and Louisa Fahy (F35 Silver at the Dublin 5k). A reminder to members to purchase tickets for our Christmas party on December 12th before they sell out. Finally, we were delighted to help Donabate parkrun celebrate its 10th anniversary last month. The club always has a good presence at parkrun with a large contingent of runners as well as regular volunteers. Here’s to the next 10!
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 October 16. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win €50..Good luck
Across
1. Felt a powerful desire for something. (6)
5. The world’s second largest country by area. (6)
10. Capable of resuming original shape after stretching. (7)
11. Pedal driven vehicle. (7)
12. Thin and fit. (4)
13. Sweet food from nectar. (5)
15. Send via the postal service. (4)
17. Scrape as if to relieve itching. (3)
19. A word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations. (6)
21. Not often. (6)
22. Previously, before now. (7)
23. Country which achieved independence from Sweden in 1905. (6)
25. Ancient Greek oracle. (6)
28. A short day! (3)
30. Youthful males. (4)
31. Take a husband or a wife. (5)
32. An inclined surface connecting two levels. (4)
35. Bring something to a destination. (7)
36. Relating to an area beside the sea. (7)
37. Produced by crossbreeding. (6)
38. Delivered a sharp blow. (6)
Down
2. The state of the world as it really is rather than as you might want it to be. (7)
3. Express one’s preference for a candidate in an election. (4)
4. A licensed medical practitioner. (6)
5. Evidence of a spider. (6)
6. Long part of a guitar or banjo. (4)
7. State emphatically and authoritatively. (7)
8. Beds on a ship or train; usually in tiers. (6)
9. Expression of doubtful interest or surprise. (6)
14. Questionable energy source. (7)
16. A person who is regarded as underhanded and furtive. (5)
18. Challenged to do something. (5)
20. Bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer. (3)
21. The colour of the Left. (3)
23. A person of little influence. (6)
24. Payment to a copyright holder for use of their work. (7)
26. Generic name for a credit card. (7)
27. African antelope with ridged curved horns. (6)
28. The opposite of profane and ungodly. (6)
29. Rough paths and roads. (6)
33. Finished in cricket. (4)
34. A poker hand with two cards of the same value. (4)
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