Meath Local News, Edition 16

NEW SCHOOL BUILDS STILL AWAITING CONSTRUCTION AFTER YEARS OF WAITING

Primary and secondary schools across County Meath are still awaiting construction on much needed new buildings and extensions, some waiting for years, despite many already having planning permission approved.

Delays in construction of new school buildings and extensions are occurring across county Meath for the past few years with local residents and politicians now in uproar over the unexplained absence of construction work. This includes school buildings in Dunshaughlin, Stamullen, Dunboyne and Lismullen

Sinn Féin TD Darren O’Rourke said in the Dáil a growing number of schools close to the Dublin commuter belt were being left in the dark by

the delays.

“There have been many Topical Issues and written questions from across the political spectrum asking the question as to why projects are not proceeding at the pace they were intended to,” O’Rourke said.

“That is the position right across the country but particularly in the Dublin region or greater Dublin area.”

Students and staff in Lismullen National School are forced to wear coats and hats indoors on a daily basis to keep warm. This is despite the recently resigned Josepha Madigan saying only just last month that a new 16 classroom facility in Lismullen NS was a priority for the government.

ByEoinRyan

Principal of Lismullen NS told LMFM the school has been waiting 17 years for a new building to be constructed as the class-

Thomas Byrne held a meeting with Principal Violet Molloy to discuss the urgent need of developing a new school building.

rooms are not deemed to be up to Department of Education standards.

Meath Cathaoirleach Tommy Reilly and Meath TD

Tommy Reilly said he has been in contact with Minister Foley and that “the Lismullen new build saga is running on way too long

and I fully understand the sense of anger felt by the staff and the parents of pupils. When you look at the facilities available to other schools locally, it is a crying shame that children and staff in Lismullen are being left to work and learn in such conditions.”

Dunshaughlin Community National School and Coláiste Ríoga in Dunshaughlin applied for planning four years ago but have still not begun construction on their extensions and main buildings with both still accommodating their students using temporary prefabs. Parents of Dunshaughlin Community National School students, those already in the school and also those due to start in September, held a public meeting to pressure those

involved in the project to speed up its delivery. Several councillors, Meath TD Darren O’Rourke and LMETB Chairperson Martin O’Brien were also in attendance.Dunshaughlin National School has planning permission in place for a new eight-classroom school which will be built on the same campus as Colaiste Ríoga, but are still awaiting its construction.

80 children currently attend the school with 30 more starting in September. Parents were told that another prefab would be required to accommodate the incoming class while students are currently being taught in prefabs at Dunshaughlin’s GAA club located at the other side of town.

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Gormanston College is also awaiting approval despite planning permission being granted from An Bord Pleanála a year ago and the new extension being seen as necessary for the town’s growing population. The proposed extension will serve 1000 pupils, a massive jump from the 400 students currently attending, and will include playing courts and pitches. Other additions include a general-purpose hall, a multi-use hall, a special needs unit, library, and staff rooms.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin said additional funding for the National Development Plan is expected to remedy any hold-ups being faced by schools and he expects “all of those issues to be resolved very quickly so, therefore, we can hopefully have progress on the schools referred to.”

There has been no response from the Department of Education or explanation for these delays as of yet.

TARA MINES TALKS WITH WORKPLACE RELATIONS COMMISSION RECOMMENCE AFTER TALKS WITH UNIONS BREAK DOWN

ByEoinRyan

The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and Tara Mines owners Boliden will recommence talks on April 15th discussing the return to full operation of the mine.

This comes after talks with the Group of Unions (GOU) which consists of SIPTU, UNITE and CONNECT broke down after Boliden issued a letter to staff that said the GOU position “will not allow for a sustainable reopening.”

A union spokesperson said they thought significant progress was made and hoped that discussion would conclude by April 5th but “discussions came to an end without a response to our proposals”.

“The company’s previous commitments on the full reopening of the mine will soon be tested,” Unite Regional Officer, Brian Hewitt, said in response to talks recommencing. “We will soon see if the com-

mitments on the reopening of the mine at this time are real or another broken promise.”

Tara Mines general manager Gunnar Nystrom said “Such an agreement will involve changes to the

conditions such as those that currently exist.”

operation, but in order to safeguard the long-term future of Tara Mines we must ensure that the organisation is better able to withstand negative market

Sinn Féin TD Johnny Guirke said in the Dáil that “Progress has been slow and many workers and their families have been left with a feeling of uncertainty regarding the future of Tara Mines.”

“The Government needs to do all in their power to ensure the reopening of the mines and that fair redundancy packages are offered.”

Aontú Leader and Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín said the government should put pressure on Boliden to reopen the mine with “reasonable terms and conditions for workers.”

“These resources that have been mined in Tara Mines, they’re owned by the Irish people. They’ve been mined unlicensed by the state. Tara Mines has made significant money in the past off the good work of the workers.”

A meeting was held last month with approximately 400 Tara Mines workers expressing anger at the breakdown in negotiations.

SIPTU sector organiser

John Regan said they will be returning to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and industrial action was not ruled out if further talks fail.“The workers expressed their frustration. They feel let down by the company and a lot of

them are under pressure as social welfare changers are due to hit them.”

Unemployment benefits for Tara Mines workers are due to run out in mid April and they will be transferred to means-tested unemployment assistance. The GOU are in talks with the government to make sure the €65 Boliden is paying to workers as top up benefits do not affect their unemployment assistance.

Tara mines lost over €67m during 2023 with directors saying losses may have been much higher if work did not temporarily cease during the summer. Boliden generated €98m of revenue in 2023, a 61% drop from €253m in 2022 and the company said the average price of zinc dropped by 24% between 2022 and 2023. Higher energy costs, general inflation, and internal operational challenges were also mentioned as reasons for the mine’s closure.

MEATH CATHAOIRLEACH WELCOMES START OF WORKS ON NEW BRIDGE OVER BLACKWATER RIVER

Meath County Council Chairman Tommy Reilly has welcomed the commencement of works on the new bridge over the Blackwater river and says it will be a huge asset to Navan once completed.

The new bridge, which will link the Ratholdren and Kells Roads, will bring significant traffic congestion relief, while also giving the public pedestrian access to Blackwater Park from the west side of the town.

“It is great to see work started on the bridge, which is another step to completion

of the outer orbital route of Navan town,” said Cllr Reilly.

Currently the only route into the town from the north Navan is via the inner relief road, linking the Round O bar with the fire station but once completed it will transform traffic flow in the town.

The new bridge will be just over a kilometre in length and will also include a pathway and cycle lanes on both sides.

“The new bridge will take traffic from Ratholdren Road out on to the Slane Road, which will alleviate major traffic issues in the

town,” added Cllr Reilly. Construction is expected to take 18 months to complete and while Cllr Reilly is thrilled to see it progress, he is disappointed that the town’s orbital route still has a long way to go to be fully completed.

“Unfortunately the final piece of the orbital route, which is from Johnstown to the Slane Road, crossing the Boyne at Farganstown, is not going to happen due to vehement opposition from a local councillor and a member of the Oireachtas. It is such a shame and I would hope the final piece of the jigsaw can be revisited and put in place to help the businesses and the people of Navan,” he remarked.

The current works, which takes in the site of the former Department of Agriculture building, are being carried out by John Craddock, who is also in charge of works under the Navan 2030 initiative in the town centre.

DEVOLVED FUNDING TO IMPROVE EDUCATION AND TRAINING FACILITIES IN COUNTY MEATH

Cllr Gerry O’Connor can confirm that Louth Meath Education and Training Board is in line to receive a maximum of €507,500 in funding to further improve and develop the training facilities in the ETB.

News of extra funding for LMETB is hugely welcome and will have a really positive impact on the learners and staff in each education and training facility across County Meath.

“The continued investment in our Education and Training facilities has been exceptional and shows Fine Gael’s commitment in Government to ensuring young learners are placed in state of the art, comfortable and environmentally friendly facilities to develop the skills of the future.

Under Project Ireland 2040, an investment of over €8 million will be distributed to the 16 ETBs as part of the ongoing investment in the further education and training (FET) sector.

This funding may be used by ETBs to plan and deliver, at a local level, essential smallscale works to improve the FET infrastructure, provide for essential new or upgrades to equipment needs and implement energy efficiency and decarbonisation-related investment.

“We have built together a thriving economy where whoever wants a job has a job and we will continue to invest in our communities to make sure we have a resilient society equipped to face any of the challenges that come our way in years to come.

Gerry added: “ETBs around the country are playing a

huge role in making sure we have a skilled workforce.

“If we want to build more homes, we need to train more people and to do that we need to invest in our education and training facilities.

“If we want to meet our climate targets and make a greener economy we need to invest in our education facilities to be decarbonised and become more energy efficient.

He concluded “The funding announced today will deliver stronger communities across the county and most importantly this level of funding will be maintained for at least the next 2 years.

“I am confident that the delivery of small-scale works, without delay at a local level, assists the ETBs in maximising their FET estates, allowing students to maximise their learning experience in a more suitable and comfortable learning environment.”

JOHN WEST MARKS FÉILE ANNIVERSARIES WITH NUTRITION CAMPAIGN FOR MEATH FAMILIES

John West, proud sponsors of the GAA’s under-15 annual Féile Peile na nÓg (football) and Féile na nGael (camogie and hurling) competitions has launched John West Féile 2024 with a strong nutrition message for Meath families.

John West Féile brings together thousands of young hurlers, camogie players and Gaelic footballers in a celebration of the GAA’s community ethos through underage competition.

Throughout its sponsorship of Féile, John West has focused on the importance of natural nutrition in fuelling families, whilst encouraging teenagers to participate in Gaelic games and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.

Coinciding with the launch of John West Féile 2024 at Croke Park, John West revealed the details of its latest nutrition campaign.

The company is to promote better, healthier lunch options as canned fish is a nutritious and convenient - yet often forgotten - alternative to processed, salty, less healthy options.

John West highlighted how processed products contrib-

ute nearly 30% of the total salt intake of teenagers, according to the National Teens’ Food Survey.

The survey was undertaken by the Irish Universities Nutrition Alliance (IUNA).

In addition, the latest National Nutrition Survey, also undertaken by IUNA, found a staggering 94% of teenagers and 66% of adults are not getting enough Vitamin D.

Speaking at the launch, Noreen Roche, Kilkenny senior hurling team dietician, highlighted how two portions of fish per-week significantly increases Vitamin D levels.

“Tuna is high in natural protein and contains less than 120 calories per-tin. It provides other key nutrients we are lacking, such as vitamin D. Also, tuna, when canned in water, is low in salt.”

The importance of healthy meal options was also stressed by John West Féile 2024 Féile Ambassadors and inter-county stars: Derry’s Conor Glass (Gaelic Football), Kilkenny’s Eoin Murphy (Hurling), Mayo’s Danielle Caldwell (Ladies Football) and Waterford star and PwC GAA/GPA Camogie player of

the year, Beth Carton.

According to John West Ireland Head of Marketing, Anne-Claire Monde, those seeking high protein foods are often looking in the wrong places.

“Many popular lunch and snack options are high in calories, salt and sugar, but tuna is a healthier choice and a much better alternative.”

This is the ninth year of John West’s sponsorship of Féile, and the competition has grown to become one of the biggest underage sporting events in Europe.

For a second year, John West will partner with SuperValu to promote John West Féile in stores across the country, as retailers continue to recognise the popularity of the competition.

The company will also mark the 50th anniversary of the Camogie competition, and the 30th anniversary of Féile’s LGFA element this year.

This year’s John West Féile na nGael national division one finals will take place at Leinster venues on Saturday, June 22.

The 2024 John West Féile Peile na nÓg national division one finals will take place at Connacht venues on Saturday, June 29.

Regional finals in all four codes for counties outside of division one will also take place on the second last Saturday in June (Féile na nGael) and the last Saturday of that month (Féile Peile na nÓg), at venues nationwide.

Féile na nGael county competitions will be played over the month of April, with Féile Peile na nÓg county competitions taking place over the month of May.

Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, said John West Féile

is an integral part of the GAA calendar.

“It nurtures an enthusiasm for our games, where friendships and memories are made,” he said.

“Generations have experienced the joy of being a part of Féile na nGael and Féile Peile na nÓg, and I look forward to seeing this tradition continue this year.

“Our thanks to John West for their support in the promotion of this competition and to the national organising committee for their work on John West Féile 2024.”

Ladies Gaelic Football Association President, Mícheál

Naughton, highlighted John West Féile’s emphasis on fun, friendship and participation.

“Players will make new friends and re-connect with old friends. John West Féile will once again provide young players with lifelong memories.”

Hilda Breslin, Uachtarán, The Camogie Association, said John West Féile na nGael is, for many players, their first time to compete in a national competition.

“I hope their experience will be positive, both on and off the field, and pay tribute to the volunteers who make such a valuable contribution to make John West Féile so special.”

MEATH STUDENTS SET FOR NATIONAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP FINAL

Local Enterprise Office Meath have announced the student entrepreneurs from St. Patrick’s Classical School Navan, Coláiste Ríoga Dunshaughlin and O’Carolan College Nobber who will represent Meath at this year’s Student Enterprise Programme National Final on Thursday, May 9th.

The students all took part in the Meath County Final held

The winners from each category and who will represent Meath at the National Final are:

in the Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim on Tuesday, March 5th. An estimated 1400 students from 16 Meath schools took part in the annual programme.

• Junior Category: Cian Healy and Seán Hughes (CS Hurls), St Patrick’s Classical School Navan.

• Intermediate Category: Annable Kavanagh and Bláithín Doonan (M.E.N.D.), Coláiste Ríoga Dunshaughlin

• Senior Category: Seán Finnegan from High Lift (Finnegan Fabrication), St. Patrick’s Classical School, Navan.

The enterprise education initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities throughout the country, saw over 28,000 students from just under 500 secondary schools across the country take part in 2022 / 2023. The programme supports students to create, design and market their own business, all with the hope of reaching the National Final.

• “My Entrepreneurial Journey” category: (open to junior and intermediate students), Maria McGowan, O’ Carolan College Nobber.

Special guests at the Meath Final included Cathaoirleach Cllr. Tommy Reilly and Meath County Council Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe.

The County has a success-

organisations nationwide for their sustainability focused project which also addresses the rising costs of farming equipment.

Speaking at the County Final, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr. Tommy Reilly said, “It’s very exciting for us to see the fantastic, innovative ideas coming from the minds of the younger population of

ful track record in the student enterprise competition. Recent awards won by local secondary schools have included “Barrelda” - an eco-innovation created by two young farmers from Co. Meath. Barrelda specialise in revamping old, blue polythene drums and recycling them to create meal silos and teat feeders. The young entrepreneurs have won high praise from eco organisations and farming

the county. It reassures us that the future of enterprise in County Meath is as bright as our students are! To our first-place winners in each category who will be representing Meath at the national final, you have the whole county behind you.”

Joe English of Local Enterprise Office Meath congratulated the students, “We have a very successful student enterprise programme

here in Meath, with over 1400 students from 16 local schools taking part this year. Our national finalists are excellent ambassadors for the programme and we wish them the very best of luck on May 9th, and we will all hope to be there to support them. What our students are learning from the programme is that with the right supports and encouragement, they can take an idea from the

Programme National Final, taking place in the Mullingar Park Hotel on May 9th.

Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, over 380,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business idea, start a business and grow a business. The Student Enterprise Programme also has new range of online resources for 2023

classroom and develop it into a real-life business. The skills they learn along the way, such as business planning, market research, selling and teamwork, will help them become more entrepreneurial throughout their future careers”.

The local students will be competing against hundreds of other student entrepreneurs from all over Ireland at the Student Enterprise

/ 2024 at www.StudentEnterprise.ie, which will feature regular blogs and houses a full range of Student Enterprise resources for students and teachers.

Further information around the Student Enterprise Programme is available from www.studententerprise.ie and by searching #studententerprise on social media.

THE FORGOTTEN ATHLUMNEY CASTLE OF NAVAN

Nestled amidst new apartment blocks, schools and roads lies Athlumney Castle, located on higher ground on the Convent Road in Navan, overlooking the neighbourhood. From its origins as a strategic tower house to its evolution into a manor house. The area echoes tales of the past and a twist of modern age with the freshly built cycle lane. Delve into this article to uncover the forgotten past of Athlumney Castle.

The name ‘Athlumney’ can be heard referred to as the ‘Ford of Luimneach’ or ‘Loman’s Ford’. Saint Loman is believed to have been a nephew of Saint Patrick and was the first Bishop of County Meath. A more recent name for the ruins is ‘Ford of the Mantled Place’.

Athlumney Castle’s story begins in the 15th century when the first bricks of the strategic stronghold were placed, guarding the ancient town of Navan. The tower house consisted of three floors built with extremely thick stone walls and slit windows for defence. The building was built for a purpose which was not comfort, it was a battle and strategy tool. Built by a wealthy, late medieval landowner who built the tower to showcase his high status and wealth.

The tower can be seen on

the right side of the photographs in this article, while the attached manor on the left was added in stage two of the build.

The newer part of the castle was built in the late 16th century or early 17th century. A manor house, also with three floors, and four sets of large windows that are a detail that differentiates the two time periods and build styles. The weathered tall, stone walls and hidden ruins of the building offer a glimpse into the lives of those who once called Navan home.

Despite the passing of time, and the winds of change and preservation efforts, Athlumney Castle still stands today and guards the Irish heritage. The Convent road links the Bedford Medical Centre and the Loreto Secondary School, and then switches to a pedestrianised road for cyclists and visitors, right before the Athlumney Church Graveyard and Athlumney Castle.

The Meath County Council is now also proposing a new scheme to link the cycle lane and pathway on the Convent Road to the Metges Road junction. This scheme will provide a new, safe and continuous walking route for the community and hopefully more footfall near the heritage sites. On that positive note, it was a shame to

see the Athlumney Castle locked closed, and the signage covered with graffiti and the words worn off. It is a lost opportunity to share the knowledge and history of the grounds.

By reading a few articles and reviews online, we were able to find out that access keys can be gotten to the grounds once a small deposit is placed at a nearby B&B. Whether that is still available, we are not sure, as nowhere near Athlumney Castle are instructions given or any signs to point the visitor in the right direction.

In its weathered stones, whispered echoes and forgotten past, the Athlumney Castle still stands strong and tall to this day. Despite the enduring strength of its walls and tower, this monument remains forgotten and overgrown. It is tucked away on a road not commonly visited by many tourists of Navan.

Yet, within its closed gates lay centuries of tales left to be discovered and spoken about. From its earliest days as a guard tower and home, to its quieter years of neglect. Although the signage has been wrecked by graffiti and the trouble it is to gain access, we still think Athlumney Castle should be cherished and hopefully with the help of the people, brought back to life.

MEN’S SHEDS ARE GOOD FOR THE BODY AND THE MIND

‘What you do in the men’s sheds is really important work that is good for the body and the mind’, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, told Slane and District Men’s Shed on her visit there on 25 March.

‘I know from my current and former ministerial roles and, indeed as a Constituency TD, that life doesn’t neces-

are there as an outlet for company and activity for men who are going through such life transitions. I know from talking to your members on earlier visits that coming to the Shed and meeting other men, as well as getting involved in personal and community projects, has been a lifesaver for some of them.’

sarily get easier as we get older. Indeed, many significant life experiences that are associated with aging such as retirement, bereavement, separation, and serious illness, can all have a negative impact on one’s mental health’, she said.

‘It’s great that men’s sheds

‘It’s great that the Slane Shed is able to be open five days a week from ten to four, as this gives men great scope for involvement in your wide range of activities’.

The Minister visited the metalwork building where the work is continuing on

the mobile field kitchen for Meath River Rescue. She congratulated the team on the work that they were doing. ‘If there is anything that I can do to support your work, my door is always open’, she said.

Minister for taking the time to visit the Shed and to meet the members.

Shed Chairman, Kevin Macken, the driving force behind the mobile field kitchen project, thanked the

‘The Shed gives a welcome to any men who want to come along and meet others, whether it’s to simply hang out and chat over a cup of tea or whether it’s to learn and practice new skills, or work on personal

and community projects’, he said. ‘When men reach a certain age and especially when they are retired, they can be very stuck for things to do and this can cause loneliness and depression. Men’s sheds provide a healthy and engaging social outlet’, Kevin said.

Slane and District Men’s

ational area that hosts training courses, physical exercise classes, cards, music lessons, musical evenings, and games such as pool and bowls.

This year, the Shed is partnering again with LMETB to put on a range of courses including mindfulness, positive psychology, photography, computer skills,

Shed started up in its own buildings in September 2019. The shed is open from ten to four, five days a week. It has dedicated woodwork and metalwork areas, a computer room, fitted kitchen and separate canteen, an exercise room with aerobic machines, and a general-purpose recre-

and cookery. The Shed is also partnering for the first time with Age Action Ireland to provide one to one tutoring sessions on how to make effective use of smartphones, laptops and other devices. Participants will have their own tutor for one to two hours a week for five weeks, beginning in April.

PLANS FOR NEW DUNBOYNE AND CLONEE PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE NETWORK PROPOSED

Meath County Council (MCC) has proposed the development of a Dunboyne and Clonee Pedestrian and Cycle Network. The aim of this network is to provide ‘high quality, safe, continuous and consistent cycle and pedestrian facilities’ in Dunboyne and Clonee as outlined on MCC’s website.

The project is set to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety as well as facilitate local leisure usage along waith functional access to schools, employment, amenities and services.

The foundation of this project is built on using more sustainable modes of transportation to reduce Ireland’s carbon emissions. This is in line with the government’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2050.

Meath County Council said the development of the proposed project is necessary for this strategic vision as it will deliver “sustainable

transport facilities and promote the usage of such facilities”. This lines up with numerous national, region-

emissions.

ByDanielDoyle

In January, MCC implemented the Meath Coun-

forts that communities, business and other areas, can achieve a shared aim of

ing and inspiring our citizens, businesses, and partners to take an active role in climate action. We know

al and local government policies to reduce private car usage and associated

ty Council Climate Action Plan 2024 – 2029. The plan outlines various ef-

a climate-neutral and climate-resilient county.

“The plan involves engag-

that addressing climate change is a shared responsibility, and we can all make

a difference by changing how we live, work, and play” said Meath Cathaoirleach Councillor Tommy Reilly.

The proposed network will cover the main roads and streets leading into and through the towns of Dunboyne and Clonee, and will allow access to several residential access roads and links and other offroad routes. Overall, this accounts for over 20km of new and upgraded pedestrian and cycle facilities.

A first round of Non-Statutory Public Consultation on route options is being drawn up for late March/ April 2024. The talk will be focused on providing a project update, outlining the vision of the project and presenting the Emerging Preferred Option. Before the consultation the Project Team will present the preferred option to the elected members, dates and times for this are to be shared in due course.

€26M PLAN FOR MEATH CO. COUN-

CIL HEADQUARTERS EXTENSION GRANTED

ByEoinRyan

Extension plans estimated to cost €26m have been granted Meath County Council’s headquarters at Buvinda House.

This will be a two and three story building with the main feature being a Council chamber. This will also include extra Councillor facilities, office space for 155 additional staff, and numerous minor additions such as a garden courtyard area.

Buvinda house was originally built as a call centre for Quinn insurance and was bought by Meath County Council and converted into the council’s headquarters in 2017.

A submission was made by Meath Councillor Emer Tóibín saying the estimated cost would be better spent on social and affordable housing. She also said the existing council chamber space at Railway Street in Navan can manage a council meeting once per month and hybrid meetings are more suitable for conducting council business.

Another submission from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage recommended that any grant plans should include conditions in relation to monitoring of archaeology.

A Natura Impact Statement was lodged with the application due to the site’s close proximity to the River Boyne and River Blackwater Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA) from the western boundary of the site. In response to this an inspector’s report said the proposed extension “would not have significant effects on the environment or the community in the vicinity”.

RATOATH COLLEGE STUDENTS ANNOUNCED AS WINNERS OF NATIONAL CANSAT PROJECT

Physics students from Ratoath College working on an exciting project named ‘Cansat’ were announced as the winners at the regional competition in TU Blanchardstown. A Cansat is a simulation of a real satellite integrated within the volume and shape of a soft drink can and it involves many fields of science from physics to engineering and computer science.

The challenge for the students was to fit all the major subsystems found in a

satellite such as powers, sensors, and a communication system into this minimal volume. To carry out the project, the Ratoath College students worked on coding the components and soldering the parts onto the board. When the students arrived in TUD Blanchardstown they had to calibrate and prepare their project for presentation before The project was taken up in a drone and data received was analyzed.

The Judging Panel considered how the teams obtained

ByAodhanTomkins

the results, how reliable and robust the Cansat was, and how the Cansat was performed. Specific aspects evaluated were the Cansat’s technical level, the originality of the engineering aspects, the performance in terms of deployment and data collection. Regional partners for Cansat include TUS Athlone, MTU (Cork Campus), Technical University of Dublin, TUS Moylish, and MTU (Kerry Campus) and St. Benildus College was the other secondary school involved in the competition.

The national winning team attending the learning and celebration event will be sponsored by the ESA for the accommodation, meals, and local transportation expenses for up to six students and two teachers including up to three hundred euro per person in travel costs. The first, second and third place awards will be allocated at the National Finals.

The Cansat Ireland National Final will take place on May 2nd and 3rd this year at Emo Court in County Laois.

DUNBOYNE AC COURSE WINS HIGHPRAISE

Sean Tobin has been crowned the king of the road at the Road 10k Championships as he looks towards his marathon debut in London.

On March 24th 2024 the Road 10k Championships took place from Dunboyne AC. Unlike previous years where the event has mainly been held in the Phoenix Park, the Meath club decid-

ByCillianSheeran

ing the National Title. Tobin complimented the “nice downhill at the start”. This very much complimented his finishing time of 29:17. Pierre Murchan from Dublin City Harriers finished in second position in 29:21 and Emmet Jennings ran a very strong race coming in third in a time of 29:44.

Tobin will continue to increase his already “high

On the women’s side we witnessed the Marathon National Champion, Ann Marier McGlynn take to the streets of Meath although she just fell short to the An Riocht AC athlete Shona Heaslip. Shona spent much of the end of 2023 training away in Kenya with her teammates in preparation for this road season. Her hard work and dedication has clearly paid off as she

ed to take on the task this year.

The men’s champion, Sean Tobin had nothing but praise for the course as he held his early lead all the way to the finish line claim-

volume of training” in preparation for the London Marathon which is taking place on April 21st this year. This will be the Dubliner’s marathon debut so it will be very interesting to see how he gets on.

ran a spectacular time of 32:49. Rounding off the podium in the women’s race was Fiona Everad finishing in a time of 33:22. Some really strong running from all of the winning female athletes on the day.

Hundreds of Bikers set to highlight Suicide prevention & Awareness by riding into Wicklow Mountains.

On May 11th , Motorcycle enthusiasts from all across Ireland are set to take part in a new first of its kind event ! Devils Disciples MC & Meath Bike Meets aim to raise awareness about suicide prevention within the motorcycling community Organizers from Devils Disciples MC & Meath Bike Meets have said we have teamed up with Sosad Ireland and want to do something to highlight the problem of suicide within our community by taking our bikes through the towns & villages of Ireland and into Wicklow stopping at Turlough Hill carpark where we will welcome “ A New Dawn” as the sun rises over the Wicklow mountains”

There will be refreshments available on arrival.

Pre registering is being encouraged and can be done through the following link

https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ANewDawnTheRideOut2024

The event will be preceded by a wellness seminar called “Mindset Mastery” on April 11th hosted online by John Power of Powerhouse Consultants, a Devils Disciples MC member. Registration for the seminar can be done through the following link

Event Link http://subscribepage.io/mindsetmastery Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/powerhouseconsultants1

Further information available from

Sosad Ireland facebook page

Meath Bike Meets Facebook page

Devils Disciples MC Ireland Facebook page.

DUNSHAUGHLIN AND ENFIELD CHOSEN FOR TOWN CENTRE FIRST PROJECT

The two Meath towns of Dunshaughlin and Enfield have been chosen as Meath’s representatives in the Town Centre First Project.

Enfied will be part of phase one and Dunshaughlin in phase two with each phase including 26 towns across the country.

The Town Centre First Policy was launched in 2022 and is one of the largest investment programmes for rural Ireland aimed at dealing with dereliction and decline in Ireland’s town centres.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys TD said the new initiative “represents a new approach to revitalising communities the length and breadth of this country”.

“This is about bringing together our businesses, our local authorities and our town teams - so that they are at the fore when it comes to planning for the future development of their communities.”

Humphreys also said that rural towns in Ireland face “considerable challenges… but

they also have extraordinary potential”.

Meath Councillor Gerry O’Connor said the policy includes 33 unique actions for Dunshaughlin to make it “a more viable and attractive place in which to live, work, visit and run a business.”

Dunshaughlin and 25 other towns across Ireland will receive funding of €30,000 to complete a town plan to help develop its town centres.

Enfield main street will get a redesign such as a streetscape scheme and other projects to increase space for pedestrians and cyclists

Other additions include a pedestrian and cycle bridge across the canal, securing land for a town park development, and designing a town square with local authorities.

Art initiatives will also take place including sculptures and pop-up activities across the town.

This policy also includes a network of Town Regeneration Officers to help future development and coordinate stakeholder engagement and a health check programme.

The policy also contains a range of actions designed to achieve key objectives such as social and economic revival in towns and providing housing.

These actions will support the protection of Ireland’s environment which includes the heritage and culture of Irish towns.

The Department of Rural and Community Development is giving local authorities up to €10,000 to establish new Town Teams or build up existing teams.

The Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, the Croí Cónaithe Fund and Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the ERDF supported THRIVE Fund are funding the town centre first policy.

“I look forward to seeing towns across Ireland producing ambitious Town Centre First Plans focused on delivering regeneration projects that can transform communities for the better,” The Minister for Planning and Local Government, TD Peter Burke said.

ByEoinRyan

The ladies of Black Bush Golf Club from Dunshaughlin, created their own piece of club history last year, when they delivered the first Golf Ireland (previously ILGU) pennants to the club. After over 30 years of trying, which included being beaten in 10 finals (shades of Mayo!), they eventually reached the summit in not one but two different competitions.

First up were the Intermediate Cup team, for handicaps 13- 20, who had a fantastic 3.5/1.5 victory over Clontarf in the Leinster North Final. After matches against Laytown & Bettystown, Ardee, Dundalk and St. Margaret’s, they qualified for the club’s 11th final v Clontarf, which took place in Donabate on August 13th 2023. Cheered on by their loyal supporters, the joy (and slight disbelief!) of eventually winning that elusive pennant was very visible on the faces of

players, caddies, managers and all club members. Black Bush had eventually got to experience that winning feeling! Managed

mott, Liz Synnott Teresa Dillon and Gillian Hogan.

This first victory was quickly followed up with a

House in 2020 with only 8 local clubs involved. This year it had expanded to 78 entrants with clubs from as far apart as Dundalk and

Carton House (O’Meara Course) on 16th/17th September. After a very tight 3/2 semi-final win over Powerscourt, Black

by Ann O’Neill and Miriam Horan, the victorious panel who all played their part were as follows: Patricia Curtin, Olivia Barrett, Marie Felle, Claire Healy, Siobhan Cleary, Vivian Marsden, Edel McDer-

second, when the club’s Carton Cup team won the 2023 Carton Cup. This competition caters for ladies of handicaps 37.0 and higher. It is a 9-hole matchplay competition, which was started by Carton

Cobh. Each club played a home and away fixture in each round. So, after victories over Mount Temple, South Meath, Mullingar, Glasson and Corrstown, Black Bush qualified for the finals weekend in

Bush took on Ballyneety from Limerick in Sunday’s final. In very tough, wet and windy conditions, the Black Bush ladies kept their nerve and delivered the club’s second pennant of 2023, with a decisive 4/1

victory. Managers Lorna Beattie and Helen Ó Muirí were very proud of all panel members, who played a total of 12 matches over 5 months. The panel who featured in the winning run were as follows: Ruth Corrigan, Rhona Grant, Margaret Jones, Anne Mulligan, Adrienne Daly, Rena Griffin, Linda McGee, Pauline McLaughlin, Roisin Bell, Sinead Rooney, Ciara Newell and Maureen Kennedy.

What is worth mentioning is that all these Carton Cup ladies are new to the game, having participated in one of the Black Bush’s highly successful Get into Golf (GIG) programmes. These have been running in Black Bush since 2017, and are a great way to start playing this wonderful game which is suitable for all ages and abilities. Black Bush will be running the next GIG programme in June 2024.

A NIGHT OUT AT THE OSKARS

Cllr Caroline O’Reilly has spoken of her gratitude following being asked to take on the role of ‘Top Judge’ in Calendar Girls for a fundraiser for St Peter’s GAA Club Dunboyne. ‘The Oskars’ night took place in

sustainability of the club.

Speaking on the night, Cllr O’Reilly said: “it goes without saying that I was nervous and out of my comfort zone but it was made so much fun by the incredible

way! Everyone knows the importance of volunteering to make our club and town what it is and full credit to the Calendar Girls and everyone involved for supporting their club. A huge amount of vital money was

to the opening of the new pitch at the end of May.”

Calendar Girls took home three ‘Oskars’ on the night, winning Best Supporting Actress, best movie as voted by the public and the

the Westmanstown Conference Centre on 6th April to raise funds for the club, which is crucial to invest in player development, support the community and secure the long term financial

group of women volunteering with me. I’m passionate about community and Gaelic games and was thrilled to be asked. It’s been made all the better for making so many friends along the

raised and I’m not surprised given the hard work everyone put in. A huge thank you to the local businesses and the entire community who supported this fundraising even. I look forward

highest collection of funds, with roughly €22,000 being collected for St. Peter’s GAA. Tickets were sold out on the night with roughly 550 people in attendance.

€200,000 INVESTED INTO MEATH HERITAGE PROJECTS

ByEoinRyan

Over 20 built heritage projects in Meath are set to gain €200,000 through the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) for 2024.

This is part of the €9m national windfall from both schemes which is to be used on over 670 projects across the country.

Over half of Meath’s projects received €10,000 in funds from the BHIS including St. Seachnalls Church in Dunshaughlin, Headfort House in Kells, and St. Mary’s Convent in Trim.

Duleek House received €25,000 and Moore’s Shop, 22 Market Street,

Trim €18,221 from the HSF scheme. The HSF set aside €4.5 million in funding for 114 projects, the largest number approved for funding by the fund.

Both schemes support the conservation of historic buildings which are managed jointly by the National Built Heritage Service (NBHS) in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and a network of conservation staff.

There are a total of 562 BHIS grants this year of up to €15,000 for maintenance and smaller conservation works or €20,000 for historic thatched buildings, totalling €4.5 million in funding.

COULD YOU HELP CHILDLINE LISTEN TO CHILDREN?

ByEoinRyan

Childline volunteers are the heart and soul behind its 24/7 listening service for children and young people. These men and women gao out of their way time and again to offer support to those who need it, whenever they need it, no matter the reason.

The Childline listening service is now recruiting volunteers for its office in Drogheda. Its 24/7 listening service is free and confidential and can be reached online or by phone.

Childline volunteers come from all walks of life and are united by one common purpose: to help ensure no child or young person in Ireland has to face their challenges alone, no matter how big or small.

An excellent team spirit and sense of support prevails at Childline units throughout the country where volunteers gather for their four-hour weekly shift. Volunteers receive full training in advance of answering their first contact and ongoing support

and upskilling thereafter.

Childline regional supervisor Mary Nolan Durkan says: “Childline volunteers play a vital role in helping to ensure there is always someone there to listen, support and empower children and young people in Ireland when they seek a listening ear. The Childline training course is a comprehensive course which equips volunteers with the skills to deliver a quality service to children.”

every child has somewhere they can turn.”

Another volunteer Liz says that although she was initially nervous at the thought of becoming a volunteer with Childline, she is delighted that she did it. “People always think that you’re dealing with the most neglected children of society but this is not necessarily the truth, so many children just need to talk. It tugs at my heartstrings that so many children

One of Childline’s volunteers Dee says that she never expected to get so much back from volunteering in her own life. “I have learned so many new skills and made friends from all walks of life. We are all united with a common purpose: to make sure

need Childline.”

If you would like more information on becoming a Childline volunteer at our unit in Drogheda and helping the service to listen to children and young people, please contact volunteerrecruitment@ispcc.ie

DULEEK TO HOST INAUGURAL DARKNESS INTO LIGHT WALK

Duleek is proud to announce its first official Darkness Into Light event, the annual fundraising and awareness event in support of suicide prevention and mental health. This is a significant milestone for our village, and we are excited to come together as a community to support this important cause. The event will take place on May 11th, 2024, with the walk commencing at 4:15 AM from

symbolises the journey from darkness into the light, representing hope, solidarity, and the support available for those struggling with mental health challenges.

To facilitate registration and support from the local community, an in-person registration day will be held on Saturday, April 13th, 2024, in the Court House in Duleek from 11:00 AM to 3:00

Darkness Into Light is a global movement that aims to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention, self-harm, and mental health issues. The event

PM. This registration event will be attended by several esteemed local politicians and our honoured local ambassador, Monica McGuirk to officially launch this year’s event.

We are honoured to introduce our official ambassa-

dor for Darkness Into Light Duleek, Monica McGuirk. Monica is not only a proud member of our community but also Meath LGFA senior team captain. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to mental health awareness makes her the perfect representative for our event.

Join us in welcoming Monica as she leads the charge in spreading hope, resilience, and solidarity within our community.

In addition to registering for the event, participants and supporters can stay updated on event details and news by following Darkness Into Light Duleek on Facebook and Instagram.

Darkness Into Light Duleek encourages individuals, families, and community groups to participate in this meaningful event, whether by walking, volunteering, or showing support in any way possible. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those in need.

Duleek Business Park. Participants can register online at www.darknessintolight.ie.

AZURE, a new fiveman band in the Irish music scene have been making waves, playing shows across the country and are set to release their first EP later this month on April 5th. AZURE is a small independent Irish band, made up of five members, playing shows and recording music while also being mostly full time students.

With musical inspiration from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, the Arctic Monkeys, and the FooFighters, AZURE has that garageband punk feel many fans of the genre have been craving for new blood from.

The band has a fantastic dynamic both on and off stage, with the members having genuine friendships with each other. Their relationships are apparent from their presence on stage, keeping the crowd engaged and entertained playing songs from their own repertoire while also adding in classics from other groups such as Everlong by the FooFighters.

Despite the crowded stage, with the lead singer Sam Jones, Bassist Sean Woods, guitarists Evanael Regnier and Devin Hanson, and Sam Kevin Parcon on drums, the group performs excellently together. No performer sticks out from the rest, with each

Sam Jones and Sean Wood said most of their inspiration came from the music their parents listened to which they were both introduced to while growing up. “My Mam was into decent music,” said Sean, who also said he spent many hours growing

member being so skilled in their own right they balance each other out. The result is an enticing performance with crowd engagement and movement along with their unique sound.

up watching videos of concerts performed at Slane Castle.

“We started seriously practising in August because we got offered a gig in October,”

said Sam Jones speaking on how the band was initially formed. As he said himself, there was the “Pre Sam and Sam era,” back in the initial days of the band, Sean, Evanael and Devin initially played with the band’s photographer. The two Sams joined more recently, with Sam Jones adding his distinct voice to the group’s already sensational sound.

AZURE, while still in their early days, has their own fair share of funny stories to tell from shows and band practice, one example they told of was the time a famous Eastern European DJ joined in on a late night practice.

“He came and told us about how abroad he was famous… but he had one song and he got so famous off of it that rappers would ask him to come to their houses to play at their parties,” said Sam Jones recounting the experience. He said the man sang the same three lyrics while the band played along. While they initially didn’t be-

BySorchaRoseMcGroaty

lieve his story, he eventually showed them how much money he was making from his music on youtube, which equated to €14,000 a month, with 40,000,000 views on his most famous song. While they did not remember the man’s name, they certainly remembered the story.

The normally soft spoken

Sam originally hails from Moanaghan, but their music takes on a more spunky sound which perfectly blends with the instrumentals played by the rest of the band.

Speaking about their upcoming music, the band says

their yet to be released EP, Casa Del Dáil is a “bit of a left turn,” from what fans are used to from them. While it will include their two singles, ‘Leave it out’ and ‘Getaway’, it will also include two new songs. “One of them’s real reggae,” said Sam Jones when speaking on the new influences on their upcoming releases.

While these two have yet to be officially released, they have been in regular rotation at their shows with returning members of the audience already knowing the lyrics. At their shows they have a loyal fanbase, those who have followed them since the beginning with nothing but good things to say about them and their music.

The band also has an upcoming gig in Soundhouse in Dublin, with another Irish indie band, Soundstrand performing alongside them on April 8th, following the release of the EP on April 5th.

HOOR, AN EXHIBITION OF POETRY AND ILLUSTRATION

Meath County Council Arts Office is pleased to present Hoor, an Exhibition of poetry and illustration, featuring the work of Belfast poet Jim McElroy, winner of the MCC Cultural Services Francis Ledwidge Poetry Award 2020 and winner of the International Book and Pamphlet award 2021, and Kells born, Berlin based illustrator Ann Kiernan, Moira Gemmill Illustrator of the Year 2020 and AI40 selected winner 2021.

Juxtaposing Kiernan’s vibrant illustrations with the powerful writing from McElroy, this exhibition Hoor promises to supply an array of aesthetic and linguistic delights to excite the senses.

Ann Kiernan was a student at Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Co.

Meath before studying classical animation in Ballyfermot Senior College, Dublin. She is a graduate of the University of Hertfordshire, UK with a Masters in Illustration. Ann has received many inter-

national awards for her editorial illustrations.

In 2022 along with the RTE Investigates team she won the Social Justice Award for her work on Domestic Abuse: A Year in Crisis.

She has made illustrations for clients such as The Washington Post; Politico Europe; RTE; BETA festival, Dublin; & the Science Gallery, Trinity College, Dublin to name but a few. Her illustrations range in

versatility depending on the medium used, from atmospheric brooding inks to vibrant and bold gouache painted illustrations but she places huge importance on emotion in each piece.

Multi-award-winning poet Jim McElroy grew up on the family farm in the Mournes, County Down. Irish Times book critic, Martina Evans, described his writing as a ‘fiercely visceral voice’. His work has been published by The Irish Times, Honest Ulsterman, Bridport Anthology 2019, Poetry Ireland Review, Poetry Ireland Introductions eBook ‘Incredible Things do Happen’, Skylight 47, Abridged, Fly on the Wall Press, Cap Arts New Writer’s Anthology.

Meath County Council is requesting feedback from the public on the key features to be included in the updated Meath Digital Strategy. The Digital Strategy sets out Meath County Council’s ambitions to meet the needs and aspirations of the people of County Meath, enabling them to benefit from digital technologies and infrastructure throughout the county.

Over the life span of the 2020 Digital Strategy, all the participants have delivered several changes and new initiatives. From the introduction of online application forms, online training programmes, digital skills classes for young and old, as well as the delivery of free public WIFI across the county in Towns and at community centres. The Council is now asking the public to share their views on what should be featured in a revised strategy that will consider the new needs of the public. How should the Council, education providers, and business support agencies utilise technologies such

as AI, online platforms, and tools to support community and business development? How can we support community growth through developing smart places?

Speaking about the revised strategy, Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive

Featuring a series of 8 illustrated works commissioned by Meath County Arts Office in celebration of the poem which received the Francis Ledwidge Award in 2020, Hoor will be on display at Toradh Gallery 2, Kells Courthouse and Tourism Cultural Hub from 8th March 2024 and will remain until 31st May 2024.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Arts Office at artsoffice@meathcoco.ie or 046 9097000.

‘Hoor’ became the lead poem in his chapbook ‘We Are The Weather’, which won the International Book and Pamphlet Award 2021 with Poetry Business. In this we can see how ‘Hoor’ took roots and grew a series of rural-themed poems.

we receive information, access services, and communicate with each other. A lot has changed since the launch of our Digital Strategy in 2019 and with this survey, Meath County Council is engaging with our communities and businesses alike to hear your views on how, as a County,

of Meath County Council said, “We are all highly aware of the role technology plays in the connected world we live in today, with digital technology forming a significant part in how

we might harness the potential that technological progress offers to support the services on offer within the County.”

HELP TO BUY SCHEME USED TO BUY OR BUILD OVER 5000 HOUSES IN MEATH POST PRIMARY SCHOOL BOOKS ISSUE

ByMatthewSharkey

The Help to Buy scheme has allowed purchasing or building of over 5000 houses in Meath Since 2017.

The scheme gives you a tax refund of the Irish Income Tax & Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) for the last four tax years prior to your application as a grant towards the deposit of a house, up to 10 percent of the property value or €30,000 whichever is less.

The Scheme is available to first-time buyers and first-time self-builders and can be used towards any newly built houses that are €500,000 or less in purchase value.

Trim Councillor Joe Fox brought a motion to last month’s weekly meeting of the Meath County Council

and asked for the support of the County Council for the government’s extension of the scheme until the end of 2026.

“This is a perfect scheme to get first-time buyers and people who want to build their own house on the property market.“

You can apply and see a full list of requirements for the Help to Buy Scheme at Revenue.ie.

83% of Post-Primary principals say the necessary supports and Information have not been put in place to deliver the school books scheme for the next school year in September.

Only 36% expressed confidence in their school’s ability to deliver the scheme effectively and the National Association of Principals and Deputies (NAPD) said many schools are at risk of not being able to roll it out in time.

Minister for Education Norma Foley announced the free education scheme last month, saying it would provide free school books to Junior Cycle students in post-primary schools. Over 210,000 students enrolled across 670 post-primary schools.

Ms Foley said a separate administration support grant would be given to schools to assist with the roll out.

ByEoinRyan

The NAPD supports the scheme but its success “hinges on the ability of principals to navigate the procurement process which falls solely on them.”

the procurement process involves drawing up tender documents, evaluating bids, and preparing for audit and compliance evaluations on top of just buying

Principals say they are struggling to navigate the procurement process and there is a growing concern that administrative burden is taking time away from their core work at their school. The NAPD said

books which all takes from their work.

“The reports we are receiving from members in relation to the extra specialist administrative work being created through the School Book Scheme procurement process and the

lack of specialist expertise is very concerning,” NAPD Director Paul Crone said.

“This is a very worthwhile initiative, and we want to see it up and running in time for September, but this is now looking in doubt for many schools.

“We are now appealing to the Minister for Education, Norma Foley, to seriously consider providing schools with expert administrative support to post-primary schools in order to ease the increasing admin pressures

The NAPD are calling on Norma Forley to provide schools with expert administrative support to post-primary schools to ease this increase in admin pressures “and provide the capacity in our system for principals to prioritise their time for their students.”

MEATH LANDOWNERS TO BE OFFERED ‘HASSLE-FREE’ SUPPORT TO CREATE MORE SPACE FOR NATURE ON THEIR LAND

Meath landowners can apply for support to create wildlife ponds, mini-woodlands, mini-orchards, or ‘plans for nature’ on their land. Applications are welcomed through an online

being rolled out this year to landowners in Meath in conjunction with Meath County Council. This follows the recent successful piloting of the non-profit initiative in Clare and

portal from March 15 to March 31, 2024.

The Hare’s Corner, an innovative biodiversity initiative coordinated by the Burren-based landscape charity Burrenbeo Trust, is

Mayo, which saw a total of 590 Hare’s Corner actions implemented in those counties since 2021.

Inspired by the term ‘The Hare’s Corner’ - an old farming expression for an

awkward section of a field that wasn’t intensively farmed and so was ‘left to nature’ - this project aims to help create habitats that have proven benefits to biodiversity, climate-action as well as to the wellbeing of participants.

The Hare’s Corner project offers landowners ‘hassle-free’ support to carry out simple but impactful actions for biodiversity. Some of the actions that participants can implement include the creation of a wildlife pond, a native mini-woodland, a heritage mini-orchard with apple trees from the Irish Seedsavers Association, or a bespoke ‘plan for nature’. This support is offered in the form of materials (native trees and heritage apple trees), micro-funding (e.g., machinery costs for pond digging), professional services (such as a hydrologist’s visit to help plan a pond or an ecologist’s visit to ‘plan for na-

ture’) and guidance.

Ben Malone, Biodiversity Officer for Meath County Council, said, “Meath County Council is delighted to partner with The Hare’s Corner project and welcome its launch in Co. Meath. Many people want to do something for nature but are confused about what they can or should do and how to do it. The Hare’s Corner meets this need by providing encouragement, advice, and micro-funding to do it. Meath County Council is looking forward to providing the local support necessary to bring this fantastic opportunity to willing participants in the county.”

An application portal will open on Friday, March 15 for landowners in Meath and can be accessed through www.burrenbeo. com/thc. The deadline for submission of applications is Sunday, March 31.

According to Lee Worrell of Burrenbeo Trust, “Landowners can apply for one or more biodiversity actions, and participation in the Hare’s Corner involves no cost to the landowner

ing conditions, such as suitability of the proposed site for the biodiversity measure, may be used to select applications. The project is open to applications from landowners,

and minimal hassle. All we ask in return from beneficiaries is their commitment to act as ‘stewards’ of their own special Hare’s Corner”. However, places will be limited by the available budget, so screen-

including farmers, as well as schools and community groups. To avoid double-funding, farmers involved in ACRES or the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme are currently not eligible to apply.

RATOATH EARN GOLD FROM CARLOW, ENNISCORTHY AND EVEN PORTUGAL LADIES EARN LEAGUE WIN FOR DUNBOYNE TENNIS CLUB

Ratoath boxing club saw their boxers earn 8 champions in Leinster Championships 12 to 17 age group in Carlow, 4 gold medals in Enniscorthy’s 1,2,3 championships, and 3 golds and 2 silvers in Portugal’s Porto

Box Cup.

Colm Traynor won gold in his first international tournament at 57kg claiming three wins

ByEoinRyan

alongside Dylan Conroy who beat a Portuguese opponent on home ground at 70kg and Gavin Ryan also claimed gold in the 57 kgs Elite class. Both brother and sister Ella Conway and Oscar Conway narrowly missed out on gold in the finals, but still earned their silver medals at 33kg and 44kg respectively.

Oscar Conway, Abi McLoughlin, Cai Duggan and Dylan Conroy all won titles at the Leinster Championships in Carlow, and Colm Traynor a runner’s up medal. All four of their entrants into the 1,2,3 Championships in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, earned their gold. Ella Conway won her second Leinster title while Mark Marikhin earned his first alongside Michaela O’Brien and Damian Suriak in his 56kg finals.

The National Championships will take place for the older teenagers in the club later in the month with Ra-

toath boxers due to compete in the Annual Monkstown internationaltournament in June.

Ratoath boxing club has Junior class Training (aged 8-12) on Mondays and

Wednesday evenings at 6pm. Senior classes (aged 13 to adult) are Monday and Wednesdays at 7pm and Friday at 6:30pm.

Dunboyne Tennis Club’s ladies term earned a win at the Dublin Lawn Tennis Council Winter League 2024.

The team was made up of Liz Whoriskey, Kay Malone,

they are currently trying to grow the number of ladies participating in the club. A ‘WomenInSport’ week took place last month and tennis and table tennis games for members and non-members were organised to fur-

ByEoinRyan

want to play together for anyone interested. They participate in all the Dublin League Tennis Council leagues and there is a current ‘Friendly league’ running for those who are retired, or don’t participate in

Kirsty Grindon, Rachel Condon, Sue Ronan, and Elaine McGrath as Captain.

Half of the committee is made up of women and

ther promote female participation.

Social Ladies mornings take place on Wednesdays for league, non league and beginners players who

the other more competitive leagues. This involves local clubs playing each other and the club with most games won at the end of the league wins.

CLLR O’REILLY TAKES ‘BIG LEAP’ FOR STEWARTS CARE CENTRE

Cllr Caroline O’Reilly has participated in a fundraiser for Stewarts Care Equine Therapy Centre, abseiling from the roof of Croke Park contributing to almost €15,000 raised by the Centre that provides services for people with Autism.

The Equine Therapy Centre is based in Kilcloon, providing a service to clients from the Dublin West area. They plan to raise funds to expand Kilcloon Equine Therapy service to thousands of children and adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism. Speaking following the fundraiser, Cllr O’Reilly said:

I first visited this centre with my colleague Minister Thomas Byrne in January. I have two nephews with Autism and I have always known how difficult it is to readily access therapeutic services that are both affordable and avail-

able. Having a service like this on our doorsteps will be fantastic.”

Cllr O’Reilly fundraised sponsorship for an abseil 150ft from the roof of Croke Park during Storm Kathleen.

Cllr O’Reilly said “Needless to say I was really nervous, but having the Stewarts team cheering me on made it easier, even with the storm. It was a privilege to do the Big Leap with staff and clients of Stewarts Care in Kilcloon and I’m just so grateful to everyone who participated and who sponsored me. A little money goes a long way, particularly with such a brilliant service as Stewarts Care.”

The Big Leap for Stewarts Care took place in Croke Park on the 6th of April in aid of the Stewarts Care Equine Therapy that provides services combining

equine therapy, horticul ture, pottery and com munity. Details on their expansion plans can be found here:

https://www.stewarts care.ie/fundraising/ equine-therapy/

MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL PUBLISHES 2019 - 2024 PROGRESS REPORT

At this week’s full Council meeting in Buvinda House, the elected members were presented with a progress report for the period 2019 to 2024. The publication provides a comprehensive overview of the significant accomplishments achieved by Meath County Council over the last five years and showcases the Council’s commitment to excellence and community development.

With a total revenue and capital spend of approximately €1.42bn, the report highlights key achievements across a wide range of initiatives, each reflecting the Council’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our communities. Initiatives include groundbreaking infrastructure projects and environmental stewardship efforts to innovative social programmes and economic development strategies.

Speaking about the publication, Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe said, “I am delighted to present this report to the full Council. Central to our success has been the interdependent relationship between the Executive and the Elected Members. This part-

nership, rooted in a shared vision and a commitment to the public good, has been the cornerstone of our approach to governance and I look forward to continuing this relationship with the new Council over the next five years.

cellence for Economic Development that will serve as a central point for encouraging investment in our county and providing support to our indigenous industries. Alongside these economic objectives, we are equally committed to delivering on our climate action targets.

Continuing, he added, “There are many challenges ahead as we look forward to the next five years. Our commitment to economic development is unwavering, and I look forward to the development of a Centre of Ex-

Our obligations to our core functions, including housing and transport, remain steadfast, and we will work with all stakeholders in the delivery of the Navan Rail Line.” The full report can be viewed on meath.ie.

SPIRE OF LLOYD TOURS TO COMMENCE MARCH 15TH

With thanks to Boyne Valley Tourism guided tours of The Spire of Lloyd in Kells, will commenced Friday March 15th, coinciding with St. Patrick’s Weekend.

These tours will be held on Friday mornings from March 15th to September 27th (excluding Good Friday, March 29th), featuring three tours each Friday at 10:00 AM, 10:45 AM, and 11:30 AM, each lasting 30 minutes. Participants can expect breathtaking views of the North Meath landscape. Due to limited availability, online booking at www.discoverboynevalley.ie is essential, with only 8 places per tour.

Situated just outside Kells within the grounds of the People’s Park, The Spire of Lloyd stands at an impressive 30 meters tall, making it Ireland’s sole inland lighthouse boasting a 164-step spiral staircase. Visitors ascending to the top are treated to spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, stretching as far as the Mourne Mountains on clear days.

Councillor Sarah Reilly, Boyne Valley Tourism Direc-

tor, expressed her enthusiasm for the tours, stating, “The tours are an exceptional addition to our tourism offerings. Having climbed the 164 steps numerous times myself, I still relish ascending to the top and marveling at the vistas. I urge those who haven’t experienced The Spire before to secure their spot online. It’s an opportunity not to be

“Consequitur quodquinque petit” (He follows what he seeks).

Rich in myth and folklore, The Spire is situated on the grounds of an Iron Age ring fort, with emerging evidence suggesting its origins may extend back to the Bronze Age.

Legend has it that Queen Maeve (Medbh) and her armies rested there en route

missed.”

Designed by Henry Aaron Baker, the architect behind Dublin’s King’s Inn, for Thomas Taylour, the First Earl of Bective, in 1791, The Spire of Lloyd was also a symbol of Lord Headfort’s prominence and affluence. A plaque adorning the east side of the Spire proudly displays the Headfort Coat of Arms and family crest with the motto

to seizing Ulster’s prized bull in the tale of Táin Bó Cúailnge (“The Cattle Raid of Cooley”).

During a local famine, The Spire provided employment opportunities, while in the 19th century, it purportedly served as a vantage point for observing horse racing and hunts, although the Kells racecourse itself was not constructed until after the tower’s erection.

Public transport in Meath is not fit for purpose for commuting, for workers, students, shoppers, or for those seeking medical treatments or socialising’, Eilish Balfe told the Labour Party’s Annual Conference on 23rd March in Dublin.

Eilish Balfe is the Labour Party’s Candidate in the Ratoath Local Electoral Area for the 7th June local elections.

‘Census 2022 results show that Meath was one of the fastest growing counties in the country with the population growing by 13 per cent in six years.’

‘In 2022, Ratoath’s population had almost doubled in 20 years to near 12,000. Despite this growth, transport quality is still similar to levels experienced in the mid to late 90s when Ratoath was seen as a rural village.’

‘Ratoath and surrounding towns were seen as the new suburbs developing around Dublin. However, Government policy directly related to transport for this area ne-

glected to match the growth of Meath East towns and the inadequacy of the bus service stretches from Ratoath right up to Navan and beyond. Meath is often referred to as a commuter county to Dublin but yet it fails to deliver decent public transport such as a rail service or a consistent bus service.’

‘Government policy should not compound the urban and rural divide when it comes to transport services but we have towns in Meath especially in our rural areas that have no bus service at all.’

There is practically no public transport between towns and villages in Meath and commuters having to take to their cars just to drive to the nearest village to access links to Dublin and surrounding areas.’

‘I have received a long list of detailed submissions from residents of Meath East who are frustrated about the lack of reliable transport and despite the NTA acknowledging challenges and a poor standard over the years nothing has improved and there has been no strong political will to improve the situation.’

‘Good public transport is not just about getting from A to B. It’s about social inclusion and it plays a crucial role in fostering inclusion in several ways

1) Accessibility: Public transport should ensure that everyone, including those with disabilities or limited mobility, can access essential services. However, on our public transport a wheelchair user must give 24 hours’ notice taking away

any spontaneity in their life.

2) Affordability and Environmental Sustainability: The Labour party has in-

sustainable and liveable environment.

3) Reducing Social Isolation: For people who don’t

creasingly called for a 9 euro a month ticket to reduce the reliance on private vehicles and to help mitigate environmental pollution and climate change, creating a more

have access to private vehicles, public transport provides a means to connect with their communities, reducing social isolation and fostering a sense of belong-

ing. Fostering independence in our or teenagers and young adults so they are not depended on parents. For our older persons so they can fully participate in society without depending on family members to access essential services. However, this will only be fully realised when all rural communities are served by local links or served by extending existing bus services routes.

‘Public Policy plays an important role in this and I call on conference today to support a direct route from Ratoath to Dublin, a feeder bus to the M3 train station, extend existing bus routes so the rural parts of Meath East can access this essential service, more local links between towns/villages and to build support for, a public transport system for Co. Meath that is accessible, affordable, reliable and safe. In essence, good public transport not only facilitates physical movement but also serves as a cornerstone for building inclusive and vibrant communities.’