O’Rourke - Report on Back To School Costs Must Be A Wake Up Call for Government
“This report from Barnardos yet again lays bare the need for a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget.”
Sinn Féin TD for Meath East and spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O'Rourke, has said the latest report from Barnardos, which highlights the pressure on parents to cover back-to-school costs,yetagainlaysbaretheneedforacost-oflivingpackageinthisyear’sbudget.
Hesaidthereportmustactasawake-upcall for government who remain oblivious to the huge stress and hardship facing workers and familiesacrossthestate.
Teachta O'Rourke said “This report from Barnardos yet again lays bare the need for a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget.” “Thereportoutlinesthatback-to-schoolscosts often reach up to €1,100 for secondary school and€725forprimaryschoolstudents.”
“Familiesarealreadystrugglingtokeeptheir heads above water as the cost-of-living crisis continues to spiral out of control, people simply cannot afford this annual financial blow. As the reports detailing the level of
financial pressure on ordinary workers and families stack up, so too do the excuses from governmentastowhytheywon’toffersupport.
The children’s ombudsman confirmed to an Oireachtas committee in recent weeks that childpovertyhasdoubledinthelastyear.”
“This latest Barnardos report tells us that over half of parents of schoolchildren are worried about back-to-school costs. Parents are particularly concerned about the costs of uniforms, voluntary contributions and for secondary school parents the increasing cost ofdigitaldevices.”
“Parents are forced to use savings, take out loans,andcutbackonotheressentialstocover the costs. A shocking 27% of secondary and 14% primary school parents said they had to use savings, while 15% and 8%, respectively, had to take out a loan or borrow from family andfriends.”
Continued on Page 4
Meath County Council to Host Built Heritage Information Evening In September
With Meath County Council hosting a Built Heritage Information Evening in September 2025 (specific date TBC), they are currently accepting expressions of interest for this event until Friday, 11 July, at 5pm.
Thiseventwillofferguidance onbuiltheritagetopicssuchas legislation, maintenance, grants, and conservation practices for Protected Structures, Vernacular Structures and Architectural Conservation Areas.
Theseminarisfreeofcharge; however, booking is essential asspacesarelimited.
The evening will include a Q&A session with Meath County Council Conservation Officer, Robert Miles, along with invited previous grant recipients.
Meath County Council will also provide informational booklets tailored to various Protected Structures, including Thatched Roofs, Ruins, Stone Walls, and Traditional
Farm Buildings. Additionally, there will be information on Architectural Conservation AreasinMeath.
fortheeventinSeptemberwill thenfollow. https://forms.office.com/e/ y87pDZxSth
Win a Laptop
And Get Support For Back to School Needs With Drogheda Credit Union.
Drogheda Credit Union has launched its annual Back to School Made Easy Campaign, aiming to help families manage the heavy cost of returning to school or college.
As part of the campaign, two lucky members can win a brand-new laptop. The School Laptop Competition is open to second or third level students aged 16 or over, that are members of Drogheda Credit Union.
To enter simply describe in your own words why you should win.
Entries should be emailed to sponsorship@droghedacu.ie. Closing date
for applications is Friday, 15th August. Full competition T&C’s are available at https:// droghedacu.ie/back-to-school-made-easylaptop-competition
Whether you're heading to school or college this September, getting organised for the year is costly, from books and supplies, tech and transport to fees and accommodation. Drogheda Credit Union has support for families with a reduced rate Student Loan to help ease the pressure.
Members can apply in branch, in app or online for our Student loan 5.9% (6.08%) for a fast flexible loan. For more information or to chat with our lending team.
Meath County Council Backs Sustainability And a Greener Future by Funding Meath GAA's Reusable Bottles Campaign
Meath County Council is proud to partner with Meath GAA as they take an exciting step towards a more sustainable future with the launch of their first Reusable BottlesCampaign.
This initiative, funded by Meath County Council, marks anewchapterinMeathGAA's commitment to environmental responsibility, player wellbeing, and communitypride.
Attheheartofthiscampaign is the introduction of highquality, personalised reusable sports bottles for Meath GAA players. These durable aluminium bottles, featuring a secure plastic lid, are produced by an Irish-owned company and reflect both practicalityandenvironmental consciousness. Each bottle is customised with the player’s name and displays the Meath GAA and
Meath County Council logos. Aspartofthisinitiative,Meath GAA is also planning to install a refill station at Dunganny GAA, ensuring that players from our development squads right up to the senior teams can easily refill their bottles
without relying on single-use plastics.
Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said"JustlikeourMeathteams have been leading the way on the field this year, we are delighted to partner with
Meath GAA to show, once again, that our county also leadsthewaywhenitcomesto sustainability and climate actioninitiatives.”
"One of Meath County Council's key priorities is working towards a greener,
more sustainable future for all ourresidents,sowearehappy to provide support to this excellent initiative promoting the reduction of single-use plastics on the field and protecting our local environment.”
Aga Hutcheson, Chairperson of the Meath GAA Climate Action and SustainabilityCommitteesaid "I am privileged and delighted toannouncethelaunchofthis campaign.Onbehalfofmyself, Philip McCormack, Jason Plunkett, and everyone in the Climate Action and Sustainability Committee, I would like to thank sincerely Meath County Council for their support. Together, we’re proud to champion a greener future for Gaelic games across thecounty."
Jason Plunkett, Chairperson of Meath GAA County Board said "Our vision is simple: no
more plastic bottles on our pitches. We hope this campaign encourages clubs, players, and supporters across Meath to embrace reusable options.
“Let’s work together to make Meath GAA greener, cleaner, and more sustainable, one refillatatime."
the reusable bottle.
Mathew Costello using
Meath GAA player Cian McBride, Eve Rattigan, Chairperson of Meath GAA County Board Jason Plunkett, Director of Services in Meath County Council Des Foley, Philip McCormack on the Meath GAA Climate Action and Sustainability Committee, Aoibh Conlon, Chairperson of the Meath GAA Climate Action and Sustainability Committee Aga Hutcheson, and Meath GAA player Ronan Ryan.
Trim Kenpo Self Defence Studio
Mill Street, Trim, Co. Meath
Want to learn how to defend yourself? Why not pay us a visit? You will be sure of a warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and great training facilities.
Adult Beginner Classes
Tuesday / Thursday 8.00 Saturday 12.00
The Academy is open Tuesday and Thursday evenings: Beginners/Juniors 6.00 – 7.00.
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Continued from Page 1
“Onesecondaryschoolparent outlined in the survey that they will not pay their gas and electric bill in August and will take out a loan and use installments. They said ‘I will go into debt until March the followingyearuntilit’sallpaid back, then it repeats again in August.”
“MyworriesareifIcankeep this up year after year. It does not have to be this way. At a timewhenthestatehasrecord surpluses of €23.7 billion, to have families being pushed to the brink to cover basic backto-schoolcostsisscandalous.”
“This government has the resources to ensure that families are not left in situations like this. However, theyseemcontentonignoring the stress and hardship so many are experiencing and pretending that the cost of livingcrisisisover.”
DeputyO’Rourkecontinued “Sinn Féin has a plan to make back to school costs more affordable. We would put money back in your pocket with a double child benefit paymentinSeptemberandby doubling the clothing and footwearallowance.”
The Meath
The Real Cost of School in 2025
get
heads out of the sand and wake up to the realitiesthatpeoplearefacing. Thecostoflivingcrisishasnot goneaway.”
Would you like to learn self defense, boost your confidence, improve your co-ordination, get fit as well? If the answer is YES! Why not pop in to our studio at Mill Street, Trim, for more information. It could change your life!
AtTrimKenpoSelfDefenceStudiowe prideourselvesongivingourstudents firstrateinstructioninselfdefense whilehavingfunatthesametime.TrimKenpo KarateAcademyisafamilyfriendlystudio withabigemphasisonenjoymentand learning.
Ourstudentsdevelopbothphysicallyand mentallywhiledevelopingtheirco-ordination, balance,confidence,respect,disciplineand socialskills.Studentsareassessedonaregular basisandtestsareheldfrequentlythroughout theyear.
Newandreturningmembersarealways welcomeattheAcademy. TrimKenpo SelfDefenceStudioisaffiliatedtothe EuropeanKenpoKarateAssociation, InternationalKenpoKarateAssociationand I.M.A.C.
TrimKenpoSelfDefenceStudio(Club)was formedonThursday8thMarch1984bythe presentInstructor,4thDegreeBlackBelt, GerryShanahan.Itisoneofthemost
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successfulandoldestclubsinIrelandand celebrated40yearsofKenpoKarateinTrimin 2024.Itisnowrunby himself,hiswifeHelene Meadewiththehelpof5seniorBlackBelts.
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“Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael need to
their
Deputy Darren O’Rourke concluded by saying “The government must come to its sensesandcommittoacostof living package in this year’s budget.”
Back to School Survey Report August 2025
The Barnardos Report on the Cost of Returning to School in Ireland in 2025.
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday: 8.00am - 5.00pm Closed on Sundays & Bank Holidays
Power To The People: The Case For The Return of Town Councils
“Kells went from having nine dedicated town councillors to just two county councillors actually living in the town,” commentedCormacCorrPC, a community representative from Kells who is among the most passionate Meath advocates for the return of towncouncils.
For Corr, the loss of town councils didn’t just mark the end of an era. It created a democratic vacuum in places likehishometown.
“Overnight, we lost that direct connection to our own governance. It’s no wonder people feel more distant from decision-makingthanever.”
Corr believes this underrepresentation has taken a toll not only on civic life but also on the day-to-day runningofthetown.
“The old Town Council, and before it the Urban District Council, were able to act swiftly and decisively. If a streetlight went out, or a pothole opened up, it was seen to quickly because there was a structure in place that
was local, familiar, and accountable. These might sound like small matters to some, but they’re exactly the kind of issues that affect
people’sdailylives.Morethan that, the council could champion local projects, support community groups, and shape planning in a way
that reflected the needs and characterofthetownitself."
“That kind of responsiveness is the bread and butter of real local government. Without it, towns are left waiting, competing for attention in a larger system that doesn’t always see their needs as urgent. And when that happens, the town as a whole suffers.”
At the time of their abolition, critics argued that town councils had too few powers and relied on outdated structures. Corr doesn’t shy away from those criticisms,butsaystheanswer wasreform,notremoval.
“Of course town councils needed change. They should have grown with the towns they served,” he said. “But abolishing them was a step backwards. 2014 should have been about renewal, not centralisation. People were asking for stronger local government,notsilence.”
Back in 2014, towns like Navan, Trim and Kells had
town councils. But many fastgrowing areas in Meath, like Ashbourne and Dunboyne, never got the same representation. Corr sees this asamissedopportunity.
“The truth is, successive governmentsfailedtokeepup with the pace of change. Ashbourne is one of the largest towns in the county, and yet it never had a town council. That was a mistake,” hesaid.
Cormac Corr PC went on to say “Every town of 7,000 peopleormore,onceitmeets some basic criteria, should have the chance to form a council. Start with five councillors, and scale it up as thetowngrows.That’showwe give our communities their voiceback.”
Momentum for the idea is quietly building. The reintroduction of town councils featured in the manifestos of multiple parties and independents. It eventually earned a place in the Programme for Government.
A dedicated Local Democracy Taskforce, formed to explore the proposal,helditsfirstmeeting just last month. Now, Corr is calling on Meath’s TDs and Senators to getbehindtheinitiative.
“Nostalgia isn’t a factor, this is about giving towns like Kells, Trim, Navan, Ashbourne and beyond the tools they need to thrive. Town councils should be modern, empowered and representative. But above all, theyshouldexist,”Corrsaid. He added: “We’ve a golden opportunity here. The Taoiseachhasmadehisviews clear. He wants town councils back within the next three years. So the time is now. Meath’s Oireachtas members need to act. Not just for the towns that had councils, but fortheonesthatnevergotthe chance.”
Corr concluded by saying “Let’s give every town in this county, and this country, the opportunity to succeed on its ownterms.”
Cormac Corr PC is a strong advocate for the return of town councils
Meath Public Asked To Have Their Say On New Action Plan For Nature
Meath County Council is at an advanced stage in the preparation of the Meath Biodiversity Action Plan 2025 –2030andisencouragingthe public to participate in a public consultation to have theirsayonthedraftplan.
This draft Biodiversity Action Plan has been produced by the local authority with the support of the Biodiversity Working Group of the Meath Heritage Forum.Itsetsoutastatement of intent by Meath County Council in relation to the natural heritage and biodiversity of the county overthenextsixyears.
The 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan requires all local authorities to have Local Authority Biodiversity Action Plans in placebytheendof2026.With the appointment of a Biodiversity Officer,
supported by the Heritage Council’s Biodiversity Officer Programme, Meath County Council commenced this process in 2024 and plan to finalise a Local Authority Biodiversity Action Plan by theendof2025.
The public are encouraged to participate in a public consultationonthedraftplan which commences on Tuesday, 5 August. There are several ways to get involved, share your views or make a submission at this draft stage oftheprocess.
In short, you can join the conversation by going along to one of the in-person or online information sessions arranged by Meath County Council; you can submit your viewsbypost;oryoucanhave yoursayinanonlinesurvey.
The online survey can be accessed by visiting the Meath County Council
Consult Website: https:/ consult.meath.ie/en/surveys.
Deputy Chief Executive of Meath County Council Fiona Lawless said: “These public consultations are a fantastic opportunity for the people of Meathtohavetheirsayonthe actions we propose to take to enhance and protect our county’sbiodiversity.”
“From August 5 to September 5, make sure you join the conversation as we look to set a positive trajectory for nature in Meath.”
If members of the public would like to get involved in the process, they can visit Meath County Council’s website for further information using the following link: https://bit.ly/ MCC-BiodiversityPlan
All submissions are due by 5pm on Friday, 5 September.
ThedenturesJoeprovidesaresolelymadebyhimselfincludingthepalatefreemetalbasedchrome cobalt.Heisanexpertincreatingcosmeticdenturesthatenhanceapatientsfeatures,reducingtheir liplines,allowingthemtoachieveamoreyouthfullook.Joedesignsyourpartialdenturesarounda carefullypreparedtreatmentplanwiththeaimtoimprovefunctionandrestoreyournaturalsmile.
Meath County Council's Biodiversity Officer, Ben Malone, on a recent woodland walk with interested local naturalists.
Meath County Council's The Biodiversity Working Group of the Meath Heritage Forum pay the Commons of Lloyd a visit on the outskirts of Kells to learn about an ongoing traditional meadow management trial.
Oldbridge House, Drogheda – Early History
Noel French Local Historian
The first Cistercian abbey in Ireland, was founded at Mellifont in 1142. The monastery of Mellifont established3.5kmnorthwestof Oldbridge on the banks of the river Maddock. The name means‘FountainofHoney’.The Cistercians divided their large estates into outlying farms called granges, Sheepgrange, Newgrange,Roughgrange.
Monastic granges were centres of intense agriculture includinggraincultivationand cattleandsheeprearing.Sheep were a valuable commodity linked to the woollen industry which the Cistercians developed, Sheephouse, Sheepgrange.
WordSmith
The site of the village of Oldbridge, one of the granges of Mellifont, has been provisionally identified close to the area of the farmhouse complex. Several probable house sites have been identified in an area to the southofthefarmyard.
In the 1530s Herny VII confiscated the monasteries and Mellifont ended up in the handsoftheMoorefamily.The Moores took over the monastery and converted it intoahouseforthemselves.
In 1661 Henry Moore was created the first earl of DroghedabyCharlesI.Hisson Henry raised a regiment of menforWilliamofOrange.He commandedaregimentoffoot in William’s army at the Battle oftheBoyne.
The Moores had lands in the city of Dublin and Henry laid outanumberofnewstreetsin theearly1700s. HenryMoore, 3rd Earl of Drogheda, named his new streets Henry St, MooreSt,EarlSt,DroghedaSt, Mellefont Place A small lane linking Moore St to Henry St wascalledOforOffLane.
In June 1714 Henry Moore died,hissonandheirhaddied in May and so he was
succeeded by his grandson, also Herny, who was 13 years old. Henry went mad, off the rails completely. He spent immense sums on racing and gambling and rapidly became a drunk After squandering large sums, he died at the age of 26, leaving his younger brother a heavily encumbered estate.
Edward had to sell much of theMooreestatesinLouthand MeathtomeetHenry’sdebtsof and the family had to move to Monasterevin,wheretheylater built Moore Abbey. So that is why the lands at Oldbridge cameforsaleinthe1720s.
William Coddington, from Grantham, Lincolnshire, England, settled at Holm Patrick (Skerries) about 1633. The Coddington family had an association with the Battle of the Boyne. It is said that brothers, Dixie and William served under King William III attheengagement.
Dixie is reputed to have draggedthemortallywounded French Huguenot, Colonel Callimotte, from the river Boyne. For this action Caillimotte gave Dixie command of the Huguenot regiment.Abovethefrontdoor
is an iron cannon ball which was recovered from the battlefield.Willam Coddington, of the Inniskilling Foot, may have given William the benefit oflocalknowledgewithregard tothewbestfordsandcrossing pointsontheriver.
The Coddington held lands near Navan and Slane in the early 1700s. Dixie Coddington lived at Athlumney Castle, Navan and he was Principal Sergeant of Arms in the Irish HouseofCommonsfrom1768 until 1776.Henry, was a Barrister and lived at Tankardstown, Ninch and Laytown.A large swathe of
lands to the west of Navan, at Ardbraccan1298 acres, was leased in 1703 to Dixie Coddington.
The Coddingtons held their lands at Holmpatrick, Skerries fromtheEarlofThomondwho ranintofinancialdifficultiesin the 1720s. The Coddingtons as sitting tenants did not want to seemeagerfortheland which would have resulted in someone else bidding up the land so Dixie Coddington asked his friend, James Hamilton to bid at the auction forhim,startingat£10,000and then in increments of £1,000, untilthepropertywasbought.
At the auction Hamilton did endupbuyingthepropertyfor £11,000 or £12,000 bid but whenCoddingtonapproached himaftertheauctionHamilton said he was not bidding at all for Coddington and had bought the property for himself.
Dixie Coddington considered this a breach of contract and trust so took a court case against Hamilton, that case went on for years, I think the most of a hundred years.
Oldbridge Estate is now hometotheBattleoftheBoyne ExhibitionrunbyOPW
A Frantic Search On A Fretful Voyage
Gerard Smith
Isawthepeninagiftshopwhileona recenttriptoCobh,CountyCork;in itsbarrelwastheTitanic.Iheldthe penupsidedownandwatchedthe shipsailtowardstheicebergatthetop end.Thenputitdowntostopthe Titanicfromasecondcollisionina souvenirpen.
Formethepenwasapowerful memorytrigger;itbroughtmebackto mychildhoodencounterwiththe Pen-man.Letmetellyouabouthim. Whenyoung,mysiblingsandI travelledfromManchestertospend summerinCavan,ajourneywemade byourselves.Ourparent’sbriefedus to:sticktogether,don’tgoondeck, anddon’ttalktostrangers.Wewere city-streetwise;wellawareofwhatwe calledperverts,howtospota potentialoneandsteerclearoftheir proclivities.
SafelyonboardtheB+ILine’s flagship:Munster,weheadedstraight forthegiftshop,wheremybrother rummagedthroughadisplay,“Iwant oneofthosepenswiththeshipinit,” heshouted.Astrangeman approachedholdingupthepen,“I’ll
buythatfor-ya,youngfella.”Astranger buyingsomethingforakidwasn’t right,myalarmbellrang.Dermot’s didn’t,hewantedthepen,andgotit.I staredatPen-man,tryingtoreadhim: washeamonsterontheMunster? Mariawastheeldest,ourguardian, apositionthatcamewith considerablestresswhentravelling withourwaywardbrother.Settledinto ourseats,Mariarelaxed;untiltheship shuddered–“WE’REMOVING!” holleredDermot,drawingunwanted attention.
Dermotstoodup,“We’renearthe deckdoor!”hesaid.“Whatdoesthat mean?”Iasked.“Iftheshipsinks,we’ll befirstforthelifeboats.”Iturnedto him,“Dadsaidwedon’thaveicebergs, sowecan’tdoaTitanic.”Dermot staredahead,blankly,“It’sbombs that’stheworry!”Hedashedforthe door,“Ihavetogobombsearchingon deck.”Thedeck–theplacewe’dbeen toldnevertoventure.
Weknewallaboutbombs.Asthe kidsofIrishparents,wewere accustomedtotheplaygroundtaunts ourparentageengenderedwhenever therewasabombinginthenews. ButthemomentIsawDermotflyout thedoorintothedeck-danger-zone,it
wasn’tbombsthatbotheredme.No, thestrangermanwhoboughthimthe penmiredmymind. MariaandIracedoutthedoorafter ourbrother.Afierceseawindhitus andwefellontothedieselsmeared deck,“Bloody-hell,oilonournew clothes,I’mgonnakillDermotwhenI gethim,”shesaid.Herwordssmacked mewithfear-inducingforce,“Don’t saythat,whatifthatmanwhobought himthepen’sgothim?”Isaid,spilling myworry.Mariawipedmedown, “Don’tbedaft,”shesaid,herdismissal notallayingmyfears.Backinside, Mariaspilledherfear,“OhGod Gerard,Ihopehe’salrightoutthere?” WhileMariafrettedaboutthe elementsharmingDermot,Iworried abouthimcomingtoharmbyhuman, fromthepotentialpervert,Pen-man.
Wescouredtheship;andwhile Mariapeeredoutside,Isearched insideforPen-man.AllIwantedwasa glanceofhimtoreassuremehe hadn’tkidnappedmybrother.The café:hewasn’tthere.Thetoilets,I checkedeverycubicle:allempty.I poppedmyheadinsidethepub:no drinkingPen-man.Theposh restaurant:nosignofafine-dining Pen-man.
Asmyfranticsearcharrivedbackat thegiftshop,Ibrokeasweat.Maria feltmyclammyhandandstopped, “Gerard,don’tfret,he’llturnupsoon.” Mylipswobbled,“I’msoscaredthat man’sgothim?”Herembrace smotheredmeincare;herwords soothedme,“YouknowDermot,he’d kicktheshinsoffanyonewhotriedto snatchhim.”
Dermotarrivedbackintheseating lounge,rainwaterpuddlingathisfeet. “I’vecheckedalldecksandfoundno signofbombingdevices,”hesaid, addressingmewhileresolutely avoidingMaria’sfuriouseye. Thefollowingmorningwhilst waitingtodisembark,Ifinallysaw Pen-managain.Hewassleepybut smiley,hopefulandhappy. HehandedMariaabookletof postcardswithpicturesofthe Munsteronthem,“Enjoyyour summer,kids,”hesaid,hisIrishaccent dilutedwithaslightEnglish-twang. Frommyadultvantagepoint,I realisehowmuchI’dmisreadPenman. Hewasn’tamonsteronthe Munster,hewasakindmanreturning home,aKindred-Spirit.
DRAFT MEATH BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2025 – 2030
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Meath County Council has prepared a Draft Meath Biodiversity Action Plan 2025 – 2030 for public consultation from Tuesday, 5 August 2025 with the support of the Biodiversity Working Group of the Meath Heritage Forum. The Draft Meath Biodiversity Action Plan 2025 – 2030 along with the draft Appropriate Assessment (AA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Screening Reports are available to view/download from Consult.Meath.ie.
How can I take part in the Public Consultation Process?
�� Attend one of the public consultation drop-in information sessions which will be held during August 2025 – details provided below.
�� Complete the online public consultation survey at Consult.Meath.ie.
�� By post to Biodiversity Officer, Planning Department, Meath County Council, Buvinda House, Dublin Road, Navan, Co Meath, C15 Y291. All submissions by post should be clearly marked ‘Submission – Draft Meath Biodiversity Action Plan 2025 – 2030’.
Please note: Submissions received by Meath County Council will be made available to the public.
The closing date for submissions is 5pm Friday, 5 September 2025.
Public consultation drop-in information sessions:
DATE
Tues, 5th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Ashbourne
Wed, 6th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Laytown / Bettystown
Thurs, 7th August 1.30pm - 3.30pm Ratoath
Mon, 11th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Trim
Tues, 12th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Kells
Wed, 13th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Navan
Public Consulation Online Information Session
Ashbourne Library, Killegland Street., Ashbourne, Co. Meath
Bettystown Library, East Meath Civic Centre, Seaview Terrace, Bettystown, Co. Meath
Dunshaughlin Library, Main St., Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath. A85 K81
Trim Library, Swift Cultural Centre, High St., Townsparks North, Trim, Co. Meath. C15 P668
Kells Library, Mauldin St., Kells, Co. Meath. A82 YN52
Navan Library, Railway St., Navan, Co. Meath. C15 RW31.
Thurs, 14th August 7pm - 8pm Countywide Online
Registration Link: https://bit.ly/meathbiodiversityactionplan
Public Consultation Survey
Survey Link: https://consult.meath.ie/en/surveys
Opel Drives Partnership With Golf Channel, The Bogey Men
The Bogey Men is One of Ireland's Fastest Growing Golf Media Brands
Opel Ireland has been announced as the new and exclusive car partner to The Bogey Men golf channel. Featuring a unique Irish podcast with funny, honest and engaging conversations around all things golf, the Bogey Men media platform is hometolivecoverageofmen’s and women’s amateur tournamentsinIreland,player interviews, course reviews, and general news articles aboutthegameglobally.
The brainchild of Jonny MacCann, The Bogey Men is oneofIreland’sfastestgrowing golf media brands, and the platformhasseenasteadyrise inaudiencesinceitsinception in 2020, culminating in an audience reach of over 150,000 for their live coverage of the Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships in MayandJune.
Jonny, as well as being an avidgolfer(4handicap)isalso a video production expert,
working in TV and visual media for 10 years, covering Olympics, Paralympics, World Cups, Six Nations campaigns andTheChampionsLeague.
His co-host on the podcast series is Michael Styles, an experienced elite hockey coach with both men’s and women’s Irish U21 teams. A proud armchair golf pundit, Michael is not afraid to share his opinions on golfing matters.
Jonny MacCann said: “I am proud to welcome Opel as a sponsor and official car partner. Opel is a renowned and trusted brand in Ireland with a rich and deep heritage, and I know the Irish golf fan will join me in welcoming themtoTheBogeyMenfamily. We look forward to our journeytogether.”
The partnership will see Opel benefit as headline sponsor of a new 3-part interview series with special guests, sponsorship of The
Bogey Men’s golf travel series “Tee Time: Donegal”, which will be broadcast on TG4 later this summer, plus live stream ad spots, newsletter ads, and mid-roll podcast reads, all featuring Opel’s new flagship GrandlandSUV.
The announcement comes as new research findings have been announced by Golf Ireland, highlighting golf participation in Ireland has surged by 86% over the past nine years, with more club members and casual golfers thaneverbefore.
Indeed, a study conducted bytheSportIndustryResearch Centre at Sheffield Hallam University, reveals that the sport generated €717 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the Irish economy in 2023 alone, and directly supported 15,600jobsacrosstheislandof Ireland.
James Brooks, Managing Director at Opel Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be the
Pictured from left to right: Jonny MacCann and Michael Styles of The Bogey Men, one of Ireland’s fastest growing golf media brands. The new Opel Grandland, the German brand’s flagship model, will feature throughout The Bogey Men channel, in a new partnership.
vehicle of choice at The Bogey Men. Given the prevalence of golf in Ireland and the continued growth of the sport on our island, our partnership with The Bogey Men is the perfect platform upon which wecanbuildtheOpelbrandin Ireland.”
NEW OPEL GRANDLAND
LEON
Johnny Guirke - Time For A Full Review Of Ukrainian Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP)
SinnFéinTD forMeathWest, Johnny Guirke, has called for a full review of the Ukrainian Accommodation Recognition Payment(ARP).
Deputy Guirke was speaking after figures revealedtoMattCarthyTDin response to a Parliamentary Question showed an 18% increase in the number of properties in Meath receiving payments under the scheme and 17% increase across the state since the beginning of 2025.
Teachta Guirke said “It is time for a full review of the Ukrainian Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) Scheme as the number of properties under the scheme continues to grow. Figures revealedtomycolleagueMatt Carthy TD in response to a ParliamentaryQuestionshow that there were significant increases in properties receiving payments in all counties since the beginning oftheyear.”
There has been 585 awarded claims in July this
year, an 18% increase from January this year when the number of awarded claims where497.
“There was a 17% increase acrossthestateinthenumber of properties receiving the payment between January and July this year. That was
an increase of 3,125 in the total number of properties in the state being awarded payments under the ARP in thatperiod.”
He continued “The number ofpropertiesintheschemein some counties is astonishing, for example there are 2,070
Why Candidates Are Skipping Interviews After Showing Interest, And Why Attending Matters
In today’s competitive job market, we are seeing a rising trend:candidateswhoexpress initial interest in a role or company but then fail to attend scheduled interviews. This behaviour can be puzzling, especially when the candidate seemed enthusiastic during the early
stages of communication.So, what’sdrivingthis?
Webelieveonekeyreasonis the abundance of job opportunities, which can lead to candidates applying for multiplerolessimultaneously.
By the time the interview comes around, they may have already received an offer elsewhereorlostinterest.
Others may feel uncertain abouttheroleorthecompany based on limited information and opt to skip the interview ratherthanexplorefurther.
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properties receiving payments under the scheme in Donegal, while on Daft.ie there are only 30 properties for rent in the county this morning.”
“Given the number of those nowclaimingthepaymentfor multiple properties, it is
increasingly evident that landlords are using this scheme because it is financially beneficial and to avoid tenancy obligations. The figures show that 21,803 properties were provided by 16,900owners.”
“This scheme gives a taxfree payment to landlords, they can also get a top up payment from the person in the property and they can avoid normal tenancy obligations that they would otherwise be bound to when renting in the private rental sector.”
“The scheme is deeply unfair because it gives access to non means tested housing support to one group of people which is available to no others, even where others maybeonlowerwages.”
“The government has ignoredrepeatedcallsforthis scheme to be subject to a meanstestandfortherelease of any assessments or reports which they have in relation to the impact of the scheme on theprivaterentedsector.”
The government has ignored repeated calls for this scheme to be subject to a means test
He finished by saying “Following revelations that the number of properties in this scheme grew by 18% in Meath and by 17% across the state since the beginning of the year, it is now time to initiate a full review of the scheme. I am calling on the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan TD, to initiate a full review without further delay.”
Donna Farrell - Director Marsh Mackey
Well Hello Dolly!
I never thought I would be welcoming a new member of thefamilyatthistimeoflife.
Our stair gate was taken down years ago. But when life throws you curveballs, you’ve no choice but to learn how to juggle.
This latest arrival to the family, was heralded not by the pitter patter of small feet but more a loud thundering of 4 heavy and expensively shod hooves.
After years of ignoring the pleas and arguments from the youngest child, we have bought a horse. I identify as working class so naturally was dead set against it. However luckily for her, her father is a reallylovelyfella.
My scepticism was finally put to one side when I found myself at 9am on Christmas Eve, helping wash down a horse that was no blood relationtome.
As the icy water splashed acrossmytiredandemotional festivestate,justliketheThree Wise Men, I had my own an epiphany. If I was going to
spend future mornings being miserable and wet then just likehavingbaththekidswhen they were young, it was going tobebecauseIhadalegaland moralresponsibilitytodoit.
So, the search began. My daughterchannelledherinner JessicaHarrington,negotiating in Facebook groups the merit of a cob verses a Connemara pony,anIrishSportagainstan IrishDraught.
At one point she tentatively reached out to Rachel Blackmoretoenquirewhether she might consider selling the Champion Hurdle winning Honeysuckle. Thankfully Rachel was unavailable for comment.
Research complete, we took to the roads. Google maps in onehand,asemisolventcredit union balance in the other visiting farms, stables and assorted fields around the Northeast.
Istoodinpaddocksandsaid helpful things like, how many gearsdoesshehaveandwhere doyoukeeptheunicorns?
After many false starts, we foundDolly.
Unlike her sainted namesake, she is not a girl’s girl. In fact, and it’s an awful thing to have to say about one of your own, but it turns out Dollyisabitofabitch.
Alreadyshehasshamelessly aligned herself with the yard stud and is biting any other females who try to make
Unlike her sainted namesake, she is not a girl’s girl.
friends with her. She’s the mean girl of the yard. We are mortified. What would the originalDollysay?
Her disgrace was confirmed when we discovered she was trying to sneak out at night. I had naively thought I was just about through the awkward parenting years, and now I havethislandedonme.
Horse ownership has forced me to canter up a very steep learning curve. Here are the main things I have learned so far: The best thing to put on a cut is manuka honey. They need shoes more regularly than children, and you can’t buy them on a lean week in Penny’stotideyouover.
I know what a numnah is and most sobering of all, after reviewing the Burke Summer Economic Statement, I understand we may have to prepared to pick our favourite child and only send them to college.
Oh, but the young one is delighted with herself. Along with the notions came an appreciationofhardworkand fair play to her, she’s not been foundwanting.Butjustwaittil she hears about the college situation,thatmightsoftenher gallop.
5 Marketing Actions To Keep You Competitive
I'm Helen Leddy, Managing Director at Back Office Marketing.
We specialise in helping businesses connect with their ideal customers. Being visible, relatable, and consistent is essential to stayingrelevant.
Here are five marketing actions you should absolutely be taking if you want to stay competitive, along with some real-world examples from our wonderfulclients.
1. Your Website Is Your Business: Yourwebsiteisoften thefirstimpressionacustomer gets. It should be fast, mobilefriendly, and reflect who you are. We recently worked with Johnsfort, building their site to better showcase their location, accommodation and tour packages.Theresult?Increased bookings and better engagementonline.
Updateyoursiteregularly.New images, SEO optimised content, and clear calls to actionmakeallthedifference.
2. KnowWhoYou'reTalking
To: It’s tempting to market to everyone. Understanding your ideal customer helps you attractmoreofthem.Whenwe work with The Lakeside Hotel, we hone in on their appeal to families, couples and tourists, tailoringmessagingandvisuals accordingly across their social platforms. Nail your audience persona and speak directly to theirinterestsandneeds.
3. SocialMediaShouldn’tBe an Afterthought: A stagnant Facebookpagesaysmorethan youthink.Socialmediaisyour day-to-day connection with customers. Use video, behindthe-scenesposts,andstoriesto give a taste of the experience, products,orservicesyouoffer.
Choose one or two platforms and do them well. Keep it authenticanddon’tbeafraidto sharethelittlethings.
4. Share What You Know: Contentbuildsauthority.Share knowledge,tellstories,andgive your audience a reason to follow you. We helped Bailieborough Bridewell developcontentthathighlights thesite'shistoricalsignificance sparking local pride and curiosity from visitors further away. Valuable content builds trust.
5.UseYourData: Marketingis part creativity, part science. Look at your analytics to understandwhat’sworkingand what’s not. At Back Office Marketing, we give all our website clients access to easyto-read reports, so they can track visitor numbers, topperforming pages, and where usersaredroppingoff.
Use Google Analytics and social media reports to guide your next move. There’s no magic formula, but there is a provenprocess. Define your audience, show upconsistently,offervalue,and keepimproving.
If you're not sure where to start, or need support implementinganyoftheabove, we’reheretohelp. Reach out to us at by emailing info@backofficems.ie and let’s make 2025 your best yearyet.
Meath County Council Welcomes Housing Targets Set
Out in New National Planning Framework Guidelines
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has published a National Planning Framework implementation setting out new housing growth requirement guidelines for planningauthorities.
Under the new guidelines, Meath County Council has beengivenatargetofproviding 2,942 new houses annually from 2025 to 2034, and 1,362 new houses annually from 2035to2040.
Meath County Council has commenced work immediately on an implementation plan and will assess key locations, variation timelines, and infrastructure options in the coming weeks,
as well as engage with Elected Members, to deliver housing for the people of County Meath.
In May 2025, there were 2,945 homes under construction in Meath, while thecountyalsosawthehighest numberofcommencementsin the Eastern and Midlands RegioninQ12025.
Census 2022 figures showed that Meath had the second highest level of growth in the country at 13.2% and this progress has been reflected in the Council's strategy for Housing.
Meath County Council Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe said: "We are well aware of the urgency of the national
housing crisis and will immediately start the process ofvaryingourcountyandarea plans so that we are in an excellent place to deliver over 36,000newhousesby2040.”
"Earlier this month, statistics supplied by the Department showed we delivered 169% of our social housing new-build delivery targets from 2022 to 2024 and this was achieved through careful planning, investment in key infrastructure and a steadfast commitmenttoourcitizens.”
Heconcludedbysaying"The targets may change, but our focus has not, and we will continue to address the housing challenges of the peopleinMeath."
Sinead Burke
