| DECEMBER |
| Five
Members of Balbriggan Youth Service Receive Silver Gaisce Presidents Award |
 16-Dec-11:
Five Members of the Balbriggan Youth Service
received their Silver Gaisce Presidents award in Trinity College last night. In
achieving this award the young people had to complete 4 challenges including learning
a new personal skill over the last year.
Click
here to read more and view a photo
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Light
at the end of tunnel for safe crossing at shopping centre Fingal Independent
Source:
Fingal Independent.ie |
| THE
end of a long running campaign to have a safe crossing to the Millfield Shopping
Centre from Westbrook Estate in Balbriggan looks like nearing an end. Cllr Ciaran
Byrne (Lab) says he is confident the council will embark on a scheme in the new
year to provide a pedestrian crossing and traffic lights in the area following
the local authority's response to a motion at the latest meeting of the Balbriggan/swords
Area Committee. The issue has been pursued by several local representatives at
town council and county council level and the latest step in that campaign was
a motion from Cllr Byrne calling for two pedestrian crossings and a yellow box
junction in the area ' in the interest of road and pedestrian safety (including
school children at the adjacent school) and in view of the large amounts of development
levies paid to the council with respect to the Millfield Shopping Centre'. Read
the full story here |
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| Garda
Band in Millfield Shopping Center for Final of Christmas Card Competition |
 09-Dec-11:
The Garda Band where in Millfield Shopping
Centre today for the final of the An Garda Síochana, Tesco, Millfield and Merlin
Press - Design a Christmas Card Competition. The competition which was open to
3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th classes from each school in the town.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
| Friends
of Autism ADHD Donate Monies to Various Groups |
 09-Dec-11:
Friends of Autism ADHD donated monies to
various groups on Thursday 8th December 2011. The total sum was €29,700 and
the groups that benefitted where Balbriggan Cancer Support Group, Realt Na Mara,
St, Patricks N.S., Balbriggan Meals on Wheels, Homepatrick N.S., Bracken Educate
Together, Balbriggan Senior Citizens....
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Leo
Cullen two time Heineken Cup Winning Leinster Captain visits Balbriggan RFC |
 04-Dec-11:
There was great excitement in Balbriggan
RFC tonight when Leo Cullen, two time Heineken Cup Winning Leinster Captain arrived
to sign copies of his book "A Captain's Story". Leo watched some of the young
players on the pitch and returned to the club house to autograph not only his
book but jerseys, and anything else that he was asked.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Christmas Festival - 3rd & 4th Dec |
 04-Dec-11:
There was so much happening on the square for the Balbriggan
Christmas Festival from street performers, face painters, balloon artists, the
christmas market and festive music from St Patricks Brass & Reed Band, Jimmy
Brennan and the fantastic school choir.
Click
here for more & some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Awareness of Drugs Group |
 03-Dec-11:
The Balbriggan Awareness of Drugs
Group held a drug awareness night for parents in St Teresa's National School on
Thursday 1st December. The Balbriggan Awareness of Drugs Group provides support
and information to parents and family members of drug users. To educate parents
of non-users to prevent use within the family.
Click
here to see a larger version of the photo |
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| Balbriggan
Christmas Festival Kicks Off! |
 02-Dec-11:
The Balbriggan Christmas Festival kicked
off tonight with the turning on of the Christmas Lights, a Christmas Food & Crafts
Market along with a variety of musical and street entertainment. A weekend long
event this year the Festival is sure to impress with plenty to keep you entertained.
Click
here to read more and view some photos
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| Balbriggan
and District Historical Society AGM |
 02-Dec-11:
Today we bring you some photographs
from the A.G.M of Balbriggan Historical Society which took place in the Hamilton
Hall on Wednesday 30th of November. Included in the photographs are the new Officers
and Committee of the Society for 2012.
Click
here to read more and view some photos
|
| NOVEMBER |
| Leo
Cullen, Leinster Squad Captain visits Balbriggan Cubs |
 29-Nov-11:
Courtesy of Balbriggan RFC, Leo Cullen,
Heineken Cup winning Captain of the Leinster Squad, paid a surprise visit to the
Balbriggan Cubs last Friday night with the trophy. Leo spent some time meeting
all the cubs, and was delighted to hear that Jamie Hagan - Leinster Prop - was
himself a cub in this troop in the past.
Click
here to view a larger version of the photo |
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|
| John
Bell presents €2,000 to Balbriggan Meals on Wheels |
 29-Nov-11:
John Bell ran the marathon for Balbriggan Meals
on Wheels and presented the Committee with €2,000. The committee wish to say a
BIG Thanks to John seen here with his two children and the Committee. Meals on
Wheels have some 'christmas items' for sale, just call into the Kitchen in Hampton
Street any morning if you want to buy anything.
Click
here for some photos |
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|
Local
Craftswoman Opens Local Shop During Recession |
 28-Nov-11:
Yvonne Clake, owner of Spiritual
Rays will be opening her new shop opposite the Bracken Court Hotel on Wednesday,
30th November. Yvonne will be selling her craftwork and also telling people about
her holistic courses.
Please support Yvonne in her new venture and call in and say hello!
You
can avail of Angel Card Reading in the new shop at reduced rate of just €35 until
9th December if you mention Balbriggan.info!
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| Balbriggan
RFC Bring The Heineken Cup to Millfield |
 26-Nov-11:
Balbriggan
Rugby Club brought the Heineken Cup to Millfield Shopping Centre so fans could
have their photo taken. Balbriggan RFC are open for new members of all ages so
why not "Give it a Try" and call down to the Rugby club...
Click
here for some photos |
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|
| Sam
Maguire Cup Comes to Balbriggan |
 23-Nov-11:
O'Dwyers GAA Club Balbriggan organised a
tour of the schools in Balbriggan with Eamon Fennell and Michael Darrage MacAuley
and the Sam Maguire Cup. David Brangan from Balbriggan.info was on hand to capture
this historic event on camera. Well done David!
Click
here to view the photos |
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|
| SuperValu
Balbriggan Wins Off Licence of the Year 2011/12 |
 22-Nov-11:
SuperValu Balbriggan recently won the Off
License of the year 2010/2011. The competition was very strong this year, with
a total of 200 Super Valu's across Ireland entering this prestigious event. The
first round of judging took place in early summer, the judges whittled the 200
down to just 20. The second round commenced in September, with the winner being
announced Last Wednesday at the Grand Hotel in Malahide.
Click
here to read more and view a larger version of the photo |
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| Balbriggan
FC U11 Secure a Place in the Last 32 of the Menton Seery All Ireland Cup |
 20-Nov-11:
The Balbriggan U11 Premier side secured their place
in the last 32 of the Menton Seery All Ireland cup with a 7-4 victory over Donnacarney
Celtic with goals from Killian Donnelly, Angel Fidel, Noeem Adekunle and Jack
Riley.
Click
here to read more and view a larger version of the photo |
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| Balbriggan-Balrothery
Footpath/ Cycle Track Update |
 20-Nov-11:
On 10th November we brought you news of the cycle/foot
path that had started and runs from Balbriggan to Balrothery - today we bring
you an update. As can be seen from the photos work is progressing nicely with
the first section nearing completion and work has now started on the second part
which runs to the golf club.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
| Congratulations
to Gerard and Nicolas on Winning Best Sports Book of the Year at the Irish Book
Awards |
 18-Nov-11:
Congratulation to Gerard Cromwell and Nicolas Roches on winning Best Sports Book
of the Year . Thanks to everyone who voted for them!
Nicolas tells his story of life in
the peloton and of the remarkable events that have brought him this far with honesty,
eloquence and passion which he wrote with Balbriggan journalist Gerard Cromwell.
A BIG Well done to them both! |
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| Official
Opening of the Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce New Offices |
 17-Nov-11:
The official opening of the new
Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce office took place on Thursday the 17th of November
at 1 Quay Street, Balbriggan. Cathaoirleach
of Balbriggan Cllr Grainne Maguire cut the ribbon and the President of the Chamber
of Commerce Joe English was there to say a few words.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Tidy Towns Equipment Hut Hit Again ! |
 15-Nov-11:
Unfortunately the Balbriggan Tidy Towns hut
was broken into again last night, Monday 14th November. However due to a previous
break-in earlier in the summer the volunteers now store their valuable mowers
and mechanical equipment is a new 'secret' location, so the thieves only got away
with one strimmer worth €88 on this occasion. Members from the local Garda
station examined the crime scene today to screen for evidence that may help to
stop these thieves in their tracks. Click
here to read the full story |
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| Stephen
Dunne Graduates With 1st Class Honours |
 14-Nov-11:
Congratulation to Stephen Dunne who
graduated from DIT Bolton Street on Saturday 12th November with 1st Class honours
in Construction Management. Stephen is a past pupil of Balbriggan Community College)
Click
here to view a larger version of the photo |
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| 5
New Shops Open in Millfield |
 12-Nov-11:
Today saw the opening of 5 new clothes shops
in Millfield Shopping Centre - Jack Jones, Only, Name It, Vera Moda and Vila .
The crowds waited with eager anticipation as Cathaoirleach of Balbriggan Cllr
Grainne Maguire cut the ribbon and the shops opened their doors for business.A
spokesperson for the Bestseller group told us that all of the new jobs created
went to local people. This is a welcome boost for Balbriggan!
Click
here for some photos |
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| St
Vincent de Paul Giving Tree Appeal Launched |
 12-Nov-11:
The St Vincent de Paul Giving Tree was launched today in Millfield Shopping Centre.
By participating in the Giving Tree Appeal you can help to spread Christmas cheer
and excitement, through the gift of surprise! Even the smallest of gifts that
are sometimes taken for granted are most welcome.
Click
here to find out more... |
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| Balbriggan
Pigeon Club Annual Awards |
 12-Nov-11:
Balbriggan Pigeon Club celebrated their awards night on Friday 11th November in
the Bracken Court Hotel. A great night was had by all and recognition was given
to the many high achievers in the club.
Click
here for some photos
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| Balbriggan
Meals on Wheels Volunteer Night Out |
 11-Nov-11:
The Volunteers of Balbriggan Meals on Wheels
had a social nite out in Harveys Balbriggan on Thursday 10th. It was an opportunity
to meet everyone together and have a chat. There were lots of raffle prizes, ranging
from hampers to mouse traps and hot water bottles!!!! A great night and a chance
for all the volunteers to meet and catch up!
Click
here for some photos |
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| Development
works at Bremore Pastures, Balbriggan |
 11-Nov-11:
Development works at Bremore Pastures,
Balbriggan have remained incomplete for some time now without any sign of activity
on site. Some portions of the development were under the control of receivers
and a working group of staff across several departments of the council have been
working with the banks and receivers....
Read
the full story here
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| Election
2011 for Balbriggan Community Policing Forum Representatives |
 11-Nov-11:
This is a very special, exciting and unique opportunity
to take part in the shaping of policies, in relation to community safety, that
will directly affect you, your children, your grandchildren and your community
The Balbriggan Community Policing Forum aims to directly address issues relating
to Crime, Anti-social Behaviour and Safety that exist within our Community
For
further details click
here |
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| 1
on 1-11-11 - Have a Onederful Birthday!!! |
 11-Nov-11:
Balbriggan Buddies, Calum O'Cuinneagain and Leon Kelly and who are 1 on
the 11-11-11. Had Calum. been born 19 minutes earlier he would have been 1 at
11:11am on 11-11-11...
Here's
wishing you both a very Onederful birthday! Click
here for a larger version of the photo |
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| St.
Patricks Brass & Reed Band 35th Anniversary Gala Concert |
10-Nov-11: St.
Patricks Brass & Reed Band celebrated their 35th anniversary with a Gala
concert in the Bracken Court Hotel on the 9th November
2011. With special guests, The Blanchardstown Brass Band, The Steadfast
Shoes Brass Band and Guest Conductor Jack Reegan the bands put on a very special
performance.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan-Balrothery
Footpath/ Cycle Track |
 10-Nov-11:
You may have seen the roadworks outside Wavin and wondered
what is going on, well work has started on the Footpath/ Cycle Track. The route
is approximately 1.2km long comprising of a 2m cycle track and a 1.5m footpath.
The scheme is to be completed in the current year. Some traffic disruption is
inevitable but the contractor has agreed to start at the Balbriggan end to minimise
disruption nearer the Christmas period.here
View
the plans here - Outside Wavin
| From the Golf Club to Balrothery
| The Overall Plan |
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| Permission
Granted for Gaming & Amusement Arcade |
 09-Nov-11:
An Bord Pleanála has granted permission for
the change of use from Retail to Gaming and Amusement Arcade at Unit 2 Millfield
Shopping Centre, Balbriggan, County Dublin. The amusement arcade shall only operate
between the hours of 10:00am and 10:00pm.
For
further details click
here |
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|
| Vote
in the Irish Book Awards |
07-Nov-11:
The son of legendary Irish and World Champion Stephen Roche, Nicolas Roche’s rise
up the ranks of professional cycling has been meteoric. Now a major contender
for a podium finish in a grand tour, Nicolas tells his story of life in the peloton
and of the remarkable events that have brought him this far with honesty, eloquence
and passion. The public voting system means
fans have the opportunity to vote for the book ‘Inside the Peloton’, which he
wrote with Balbriggan journalist Gerard Cromwell.
You
can vote for the book by clicking
here
(voting
closes on 13-Nov-11)
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| O'Dwyers
U12's, u 15's & U16's |
06-Nov-11:
Overall, mixed emotions indeed for all the
girls teams representing O'Dwyers GAA club this weekend, but undoubtedly bright
times are ahead for them and the club is rightfully very proud of their efforts,
as was shown by the terrific welcome they got returning to the club. Well done
to all girls who wore their club colours with such pride & commitment and
a final well done to the parents and supporters who followed them everywhere and
without whom it would have been simply impossible. What a season! | | | | | | Click
here to view photos of the U16's | | Ladies
U14 Division 2 Championship Semi-Final Sunday 6th Nov Vs St Sylvesters - Read
how the U14 team got on by clicking
here |
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| Brian
Ormond Switches on Christmas Lights in Millfield |
 05-Nov-11:
In association with Irish Autism Action, Brian Ormond came to Balbriggan to switch
on the Christmas Lights at Millfield. In his usual friendly manner Brian took
time for photos and pulled one lucky girl, Alisha from the crowd to flick the
switch...
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Brian
Ormond Switches on Christmas Lights in Millfield |
05-Nov-11:
In association with Irish Autism Action, Brian Ormond came to Balbriggan to switch
on the Christmas Lights at Millfield. In his usual friendly manner Brian took
time for photos and pulled one lucky girl, Alisha from the crowd to flick the
switch... Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| 34th/161st
Balbriggan Scouts One Programme Training |
 05-Nov-11:
The 34th/161st Balbriggan Scouts attended training today on the One Programme
which provides a single progressive programme for all age ranges, meeting the
needs of young people in the modern world It is purposely driven by the young
person and facilitated by Adult Scouters.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| New
Courtlough Lake Opens... |
 04-Nov-11:
The new Courtlough Lake (beside the gun club)
is now open and Martin Bailey headed down with some friends to test it out, bringing
along his camera. The lake will be open this weekend for day tickets (€20 per
session) Another great ammenity for Balbriggan!
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Foroige
Youth Citizenship Awards @ The Helix |
 03-Nov-11:
Members of the Foroige team in Balbriggan
headed off to the Helix last night for the final of the Youth Citizenship Awards
which will be aired on Sunday 6th November @ 6pm on TV3. Narrowed down from 150
groups to 10 the Balbriggan group put the same mamoth effort, which they do for
every task they undertake, into the preparations for this night, with banners,
and of course their extremely high levels of enthusiasm!
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Fingal
Cleaner Communities Award Presented to Martello Residents Association, Balbriggan |
 02-Nov-11:
The Fingal Cleaner Communities Awards took place on Thursday
20th October 2011 in Fingal County Hall in Swords. Martello Tower Residents Association
Balbriggan won 1st prize for the Best Presented Resident only maintained estate.
Another great achievement for Balbriggan.
Well done to all involved! For further details click
here |
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| Sand
Removal @ Balbriggan Harbour |
 01-Nov-11:
We headed down to the Harbour this evening at low tide when the diggers where
in removing the sand bank on the northern pier. This was causing issues for the
fishing boats and they now have a clear entry into the harbour.
Click
here for some photos of the work in action... |
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| OCTOBER |
| Webster
Family Visit from Wales |
 29-Oct-11:
We caught up with
Robert Webster, his lovely wife Val, daugher Sarah and grandson Lewis who where
visiting from Wales. Robert who is from Balbriggan regularly comes home to visit
family and was staying in the Bracken Court Hotel.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Sheena
moves from Balbriggan Branch of Irish Permanent |
 29-Oct-11:
Sheena Smith completed her last day in the Irish Permanent
branch in Balbriggan yesterday. We caught up with Sheena as she was having a farewell
party with colleagues and friends in the Bracken Court Hotel. Sheena who is from
Gormanstown.
Click
here to read more and view some photos... |
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| Balbriggan
Community Halloween Festival |
 28-Oct-11:
Balbriggan Community Halloween Festival took
place on Friday 28th October outside the Town Hal. With fantastic performances
on the night from hip hop dancing, samba drumming, a spooky drama, and four young
bands playing music
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Lady 'Cathy Healy' Celebrates 90th Birthday! |
 28-Oct-11:
Congratulations to local lady Cathy Healy who celebrated her 90th Birthday on
Thursday night in the Milestone Inn. Cathy was joined by family and friends on
the night for a party to celebrate this very special occasion. Congratulations
once again Cathy from all your friends in Balbriggan. Photos
by Martin Fanning..
Click
here to view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Public Realm Plan on Display in Millfield |
 26-Oct-11:
Balbriggan's Public Realm Plan will be on show in Millfield Shopping Centre until
4th November 2011. The public will have the opportunity to view the plan during
this time. Members of Balbriggan Town Council, Fingal County Council, Balbriggan
Chamber of Commerce along with Bracken Educate Together & St. Molaga's Senior
National School where in Millfield today to view the plan.
Click
here to view some photos |
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|
McCaffrey
snatches win from jaws of defeat
Source: Fingal Independent |
25-Oct-11:
BALBRIGGAN Under-19s recorded their first win of the season in a thrilling
encounter at home last Friday against Ratoath under lights. Although Balbriggan
started off the stronger it was Ratoath who opened the scoring in the 10th minute
on their first foray into the Balbriggan 22 when they drove over from a five-metre
penalty. Ratoath seemed to have a slight edge in the lineouts, but this
was nullified by some excellent counter rucking and turnovers from Balbriggan.
Nevertheless, the Meath boys almost had a second try in the 20th minute but were
unfortunate to spill the ball over the line. Balbriggan made one last push just
before half-time, though, and Andy McCaffrey drove over, Paddy McNally converted
and the home side led 7-5. Balbriggan were first out of the blocks in the second
half and within three minutes a quick flash of the ball across their backs allowed
Harry McNally to outstrip the Ratoath defence and put the home side into a 14-5
lead. Ratoath spread the ball at every opportunity and in the 25th minute of the
half they were rewarded with a fine unconverted try. Almost straight from the
restart and with just eight minutes left on the clock Ratoath scored again in
the same corner to put them into the lead - 15-14.
Read the full article here |
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| Flooding
in Balbriggan, 24-Oct-11 |
 24-Oct-11:
The rain came down in buckets today and caused
mayhem on the countries roads. All north bound trains out of Connolly station
have been cancelled. Here are some photos we captured tonight in and around Balbriggan
just to show how we were affected. Click
here to view the photos
If
you managed to get any photos of areas we missed send them in to us by emailing
info@balbriggan.info |
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| Balbriggan
Town Council Civic Reception for German Students from St Wendel |
 21-Oct-11:
Balbriggan Town Council held a civic reception for the German Students from St
Wendel who spent the last week on a student exchange with Balbriggan Community
College. The students got to visit some local historical sites and even turned
down the offer to go shopping on Friday to spend their last day in in the school.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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to Top |
|
College
juniors are edged out in cup
Source: Fingal Independent |
| 18-Oct-11:
BALBRIGGAN Community College teams were busy last week, with the juniors at home
in round one of the Leinster Development Cup against Moyne CC (Longford), and
both the juniors and seniors away to St Pauls of Raheny on Thursday in the North
Dublin A League. First up was the junior cup match on Monday, when Moyne got off
to a flyer with a try after six minutes. Balbriggan responded quickly, with Toba
Toki going over from close range, but Moyne scored again in the 20th minute to
go into the break 10-7 in front. Just as Balbriggan thought they were getting
on top Moyne struck again in the 10th minute of the new half to make it 17-7,
but there followed a period of incessant Balbriggan pressure, resulting in a penalty
try. Five minutes later Balbriggan scored again, this time through Folarin Odulami
who picked up a loose ball on half-way and fended off several defenders to touch
down under the posts. Balbriggan were now 21-17 in front with 10 minutes left.
But after sloppy defence, their opponents gained field position from where they
went over to edge 22-21 in front - the winning score. In their double header against
St Pauls on Thursday neither the juniors nor the seniors had much joy. The juniors
played their hearts out, but on the day were up against a far bigger and more
powerful unit and by half-time they trailed 17-5. Read
the full article here |
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| Balrothery
Teenage Super Hereos! |
 18-Oct-11:
Earlier in the year we brought you the story of two Sixteen
year old brothers, Juvan and Christivan Maritz, who had applied for and received
a small grant from SpunOut.ie to make a difference in their local community -
The project was called TreeCops and Juvan
and Christivan have received the SuperHero 2011 Award in Dublin.
Click
here to read the full article |
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|
| Joanne
O'Reilly Hosts Cheerios Childline Breakfast Party |
 17-Oct-11:
Joanne O'Reilly hosted a Cheerios Childline Breakfast Party in her house
on Saturday morning, 15th October 2011. Joanne would just like to extend her gratitude
to Preserved Deli, Around The Pound, Supervalu, Dunnes Stores and Tesco for donating
various breakfast treats for the party. She would also like to thank her fantastic
friends and family who made generous donations.
The
kids had a fantastic morning and they raised a total
of €185.00 for a great cause. Well done Joanne! |
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| Living
in Balbriggan Fair |
 15-Oct-11:
Cairde, Balbriggan organised a Living in Balbriggan Fair in Old St. Georges School
on Hampton Steet to showcase the many services, clubs, societies and groups in
Balbriggan...
Click
here to read more and view some photos
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| Balbriggan
Fish & Farmers Market closes for the Winter |
 14-Oct-11:
Friday the 14th of October saw the last week of the Balbriggan
Fish & Farmers market on the square, as it closed down for the winter. The
market Will return in Spring 2012. The Balbriggan Fish and Farmers Christmas Market
will take place as usual at a date to be confirmed.
Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Town Council Annual Awards 2011 |
 14-Oct-11:
Balbriggan Town Council held its Annual Awards
Night on Thursday 13th October 2011 in the Bracken Court Hotel. The crowd was
entertained by The Breda Gibbons Dance Group, St Patricks Brass & Reed Band
and Lauren Walsh, Winner of this Years Fingal's Got Talent.....
Click
here to read more and view some photos.
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| Thomspon
Makes History with Taiwan F1 Outing |
 13-Oct-11:
Gary Thompson helped officially open Taiwan’s all-new Penbay International Circuit
in spectacular style last weekend when he got behind the wheel of a two-seater
Formula 1 car.
The 19-year-old Dubliner (whose
grandparents are from Balbriggan!) who has spent this season contesting the Japanese
Formula 3 Championship, became the youngest Irishman in history to drive a modern
grand prix car, as well as the first from any nation to pilot one in Taiwan, after
accepting an invitation to offer distinguished guests passenger rides at the 3.5km
circuit’s opening. Read more and view some photos
here |
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|
Victim
escapes tiger kidnap bid bunglers
Source: Herald.ie |
A
Brave tiger kidnap victim escaped through fields after a gang dumped him in a
lane near Dublin Airport and put a bag over his head. Initially the man, who had
also been tied up -- stumbled back to the car from which he had been dumped --
not realising it was occupied by the kidnap gang. The
gangsters then placed another bag over the victim's head in the car but, after
a brief scuffle, the man managed to escape from the car through nearby fields.
The drama began to unfold in the early hours of yesterday when an armed three-man
gang broke into the home the man shares with his partner. The couple were held
at their home at St Andrew's Park in Swords overnight by the gang. At
8.30am yesterday the woman was ordered to go to work as normal at Balbriggan Post
Office, take out a large sum of money and await further instructions from the
gang. However, a colleague noticed the woman was acting strangely and notified
the gardai, who intercepted the woman outside the post office. The kidnap gang's
getaway vehicle was found partially burned out in Whitehall. Gardai believe the
gang is Dublin-based and had the Swords-based couple under surveillance for some
time. The botched tiger kidnapping was the third attack on a post office in just
12 hours. |
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|
| Two
Held Hostage in Attempted Post Office Raid |
 05-Oct-11:
Two people were taken hostage as part of an attempted post office robbery
in Balbriggan, . A number of men entered a house in the St Andrews Park area of
Swords overnight and held the couple hostage. The woman was then made to go to
the post office in Balbriggan, where she worked, early this morning.
Gardaí
were alerted to the incident and intervened before the robbery took place. The
woman's husband was found unharmed in a field in Swords. Anyone
with information or who seen anything suspicious in the two areas is asked to
contact gardaí at Balbriggan on 01 8020510. |
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|
| Bestseller
Set to Create New Jobs in Balbriggan |
03-Oct-11:
Danish retail group Bestseller is to create up to 50 new jobs by expanding
its operations in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan. Womenswear brands Vero
Moda, ONLY, and Vila, as well as menswear brand Jack & Jones, and childrenswear
brand Name It will be opening new stores at the retail centre. The accessories
brand Pieces will also be sold in the womenswear stores. The official opening
of the stores will take place on Thursday, November 10. Those wishing to
apply for a position in one of the stores are asked to send a C.V. and cover letter
to jobsmillfield@bestseller.com,
stating the store name and the position sought in the subject line. |
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|
| Balbriggan
Rugby Football Club Surprise Visitor |
 07-Oct-11:
Balbriggan
Rugby Football Club had a surprise VIP visit last night in the form of Jamie
Hagan, Leinster Prop (who is from Balbriggan and started out out his career playing
for BRFC). Jamie dropped in to see the Mini's training last night..
Click
here to read more and view a larger version
of the photo |
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|
| Balbriggan
Public Realm Plan Launched |
 03-Oct-11:
Fingal County Council in partnership with Balbriggan
Town Council, the Heritage Council and Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce has prepared
a Public Realm Plan for Balbriggan.
The Balbriggan
Public Realm Plan "The Heart of Balbriggan" was launched by Minister for Health,
Dr. James Reilly T.D. on Monday 3rd October 2011 in Balbriggan Town Hall, Georges
Square. Local Business people and members of the public attended and CD's where
given out with the contents of the plan. Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
| Ardgillan
College Make a Presentation to the Young Scientists of 2nd and 3rd year. |
 02-Oct-11:
Star of the year, Eanna Reynolds is this
years: Sentinus, Northern Ireland, Junior Runner-Up, 2011.
Éanna Reynolds had fun observing and monitoring the behavioural habits
of the common slugs and snails. The project titled, "The behavioural patterns
of the Helix Aspersa and the Gastropod Mollusc colony in the horticultural habitat
of the North Dublin area-an ecological study" was already awarded a highly commended
in the Biology and Ecology category. Click
here
to read more and view some photos |
| SEPTEMBER
2011 |
| Balbriggan
Public Realm Plan to be Launched |
 29-Sep-11:
Fingal County Council in partnership with Balbriggan
Town Council, the Heritage Council and Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce has prepared
a Public Realm Plan for Balbriggan.
The
Balbriggan Public Realm Plan "The Heart of Balbriggan" will be launched by Minister
for Health, Dr. James Reilly T.D. on Monday 3rd October
2011 at 6.30 p.m. in Balbriggan Town Hall, Georges Square and the local
community are invited to attend. For further
details click here |
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|
Irelands
Perfect Teen! |
 26-Sep-11:
Jade Marrey, A local teen from Balbriggan is taking on
Europe hoping to win the title Europe's Perfect for Ireland. Jade Schooled in
Malahide Community School & lives in Balbriggan.
The
16 year old will be flying to Wales to compete in the grand final of Europe's
Perfect on the 30th of October Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
O'Dwyers
U12 Hurlers win Camaint Final in Parnell Park |
 26-Sep-11:
Camaints are conditioned
games where traditional skills are combined with ground hurling to help delvelop
skills. There were a series of Blitz's played by teams throughout Dublin during
the Summer....
Click
here to read more and view some photos... |
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to Top |
|
The
Dublin Team Bring the Sam Maguire Cup to Neighbouring Skerries |
 23-Sep-11:
On 19th September the Dublin team paid a visit to Skerries
with the Sam Maguire cup, home of their Captain Bryan Cullen. Crowds turned out
to see the team and cheer them on for winning the All-Ireland Final.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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to Top |
|
Local
Hero Awards |
 21-Sep-11:
The Local Heros Award which where
sponsored by Tesco, Millfield and the Fingal Independent took place on Friday
16th September in Millfield Shopping Centre.
Various
people where nominated on a monthly basis since Millfield opened and a special
night was held for all of the heros who went home with a lovely hamper courtesy
of Tesco . Well done to all involved. Click
here for some photos |
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|
Balbriggan
Community College Open Evening |
 15-Sep-11:
Balbriggan Community College held their Open Evening
on Thursday 15th September 2011 to allow students and their parents to see the
great facilities that the school has to offer. The teachers where on hand to show
the parents around and answer any questions that they had. The school has excellent
facilities for the students including Wood Work, Technology , Metal Work, Arts
& Crafts, Science, Language and Music to name but a few.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
Foroige
Needs Your Help! |
 14-Sep-11:
Foróige Balbriggan
is seeking the use of premises 2-3 evenings per week. We have some funding which
we can use to pay for some repair work if necessary and can fit out the premises
as a youth cafe. Or if you have a portacabin that you no longer need, we would
take it off your hands.
All
queries /offers /negotiations to Derval at 086-7710790 |
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|
Balbriggan
Meals on Wheels Open Day! |
 13-Sep-11:
Meals on Wheels would like to thank everyone who came to
their Open Morning. Some new volunteers signed up totday, however they still need
more!! As can be seen they had young, not so young and very young attendees on
the day.....
If
you have some spare time and would like to volunteer please call (01) 8416743
... Click
here for some photos |
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|
| Balbriggan
Autumn Jazz - A Huge Success! |
 12-Sep-11:
Balbriggan Autumn Jazz kicked
off yesterday with Gypsy Jazz Duo Patrick Collins & Drazen Derek in Mollies Coffee
Gallery. The duo gave a cracking performance and whilst keeping the audience entertained
really set the scene for the rest of the day.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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|
| From
debt to death -- former bank to be resurrected as funeral home |
| DEPOSITS
of a different kind are planned for this former bank. North Dublin businessman
Patrick Hickey plans to convert this former National Irish Bank into a funeral
home under new plans lodged with the local authority. For 120 years, the bank
on Drogheda Street in Balbriggan served the needs of the local community but closed
last year as part of a sell-off of local branches by NIB. But now the owner of
McNally's Funeral Directors has sought planning permission from Fingal County
Council to convert the listed building into a funeral home. "We've been looking
for a premises for six or seven years because our current site is too small and
this building came up on the market last year at a reasonable price," Mr Hickey
said last night. "Over the years, alterations were made to the inside so there's
nearly no original features left. "On the ground floor there will be an office
and shop with memorials and headstones, and we'll have quite a big funeral home.
McNally's is in business since 1878 and I'm the fifth person to run the business
with my wife Monica." Read the full story here |
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|
100
worthy community groups given €176k grants
Source:
Herald.ie |
| OVER 100 local Dublin organisations
have been praised for their outstanding work in the community -- and have won
grants worth €176,000 for their efforts. The voluntary organisations are now the
proud recipients of thousands of euro in funding, rewarded for their hard work
and dedication in helping to boost our city. The annual awards of the Dublin Bus
Community Support Programme (CSP) returned for its eighth year yesterday and saw
prize money generously given out at the Croke Park ceremony, MC'd by RTE presenter
Mary Kennedy. Patron of the scheme Niall Quinn commended the various organisations
for their valiant efforts. "There are so many unsung heroes out there who are
not seen and it's wonderful to be able to raise awareness and promote all the
good that's being done," he told the Herald. Drama Balbriggan Youth Service Foroige
was one of the 10 winners to go home with a €5,000 prize. Foroige works closely
with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and applied to the scheme in
order to stage a drama project for its students. "Bullying is the biggest issue
for the youths of Balbriggan between 10-21 year olds, so we wanted to facilitate
a project to tackle the problem," said Zita Flatley, Youth Officer for the after-school
centre. Read the full story here |
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|
Final
touches being put to Balbriggan plan
Source: Fingal
Independent |
| 15-Sep-11:
THE FINAL draft of what could be the most important plan for Balbriggan's future
will be finally launched in early October. It was announced at the recent meeting
of Balbriggan Town Council that the final touches are being put to the Balbriggan
Public Realm plan by consultants working on the project. The project is backed
by Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce and the Town Council and has gone through an
extensive public consultation process to bring it to this stage. It is hoped the
details of the plan will breathe new life into the town, particularly the old
town centre and make it a hive of activity once again not only for shopping but
for cultural and heritage events too. Read the full
article here |
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|
Changes
to bus route causes traffic 'chaos'
Source: Fingal
Independent |
| 15-Sep-11:
CHANGES to a bus route in Balbriggan have led to 'chaos' on Chapel Street
in Balbriggan, where buses have been seen mounting the footpath to negotiate a
tight corner and residents are up in arms because they cannot get out of their
driveway. Traffic on Chapel Street is a hot issue in Balbriggan and Cllr. Frank
Snowe ( NP), among others, has requested the street be made one way as it simply
cannot cope with a volume of traffic it was never meant to carry. Cllr. Snowe
said changes to a local Bus Eireann route means the road is taking even more traffic
and he the street is not suitable for a two-way bus service. Read
the full article here |
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|
| CD
Released to Raise Money for Meals on Wheels |
 12-Sep-11:
Local girl Andrea Murphy has rewritten the words to the well known song
'Galway Girl' and has changed the title to 'Dublin Girl' to raise funds for a
very important local service which delivers meals to people in the community.
Meals on
Wheels is a volunteer service that provides hot meals on a daily basis to those
in our community who have lost the ability to cook.
Click
here to read more and see the new lyrics... |
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to Top |
|
| Finial
on Balbriggan Library Tilts on it's Base |
 12-Sep-11:
Roads where closed in Balbriggan today as the high winds shifted the finial
on the top of the circular turrett at Balbriggan Library. The finial was put in
place in 1905 when the library was built and it took the stong winds which where
the tail end of Hurricane Katia to tilt it on it's base.
Click
here for some photos |
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|
| Storm
Winds Coming as Huricane Katia Moves In ... |
 10-Sep-11:
Ireland will be pummelled by Hurricane Katia
from tomorrow night as forecasters warned of winds up to 160kmh causing building
damage, coastal flooding, uprooted trees and transport chaos.
Met
Eireann was last night considering issuing a severe weather warning today after
putting out an advisory yesterday. Click
here to see some photos of the sea water
coming over the harbour wall on 9th October last year, will this storm bring a
repeat of this? |
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|
| Balbriggan
Comes Out Tops in Tidy Towns! |
 05-Sep-11:
Balbriggan has won the Endeavour Award for
most improved town since 2010 in the Tidy Towns Competition for the Fingal Area.
This is due to the combined efforts of the shop owners, the traders, the town
council and the people of Balbriggan. I'm sure you will all agree that the town
has never looked so well with the painting that has taken place and the blooming
baskets.
Keep
up the great work! |
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|
| Sarah
Fennell Returns to college after Summer of Volunteering at Balbriggan Meals on
Wheels |
 05-Sep-11:
Sarah Fennell from Balbriggan has been volunteering
at Meals on Wheels over the summer. Sarah has really enjoyed her time there and
had great fun, not only with the staff and other volunteers but also the people
attending dinner clubs.
Sarah is an Irish
Dance and music student and has been dancing since the age of 2. She is now going
into 2nd year for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Irish Dance and Music at Limerick
University.Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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to Top |
|
| Balbriggan
& District Horticultural Society Annual Flower Show |
 04-Sep-11:
Balbriggan & District Horticultural Society held their
Annual Flower Show on Sunday 4th September and what a fantastic display the exhibitors
put on!
The bad weather over the last couple of months obviously didn't deter these gardeners
from presenting some of the best flowers and vegetables that Bloom would be proud
of. Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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to Top |
|
| Balbriggan
Community College Debs Gets off to a Stunning Start! |
 03-Sep-11:
The guys and girls from Balbriggan Community
College headed off to their debs last night and what a fabulous turn out as family
and friend turned up in the Bog of the Ring to see them off. With beautiful dresses,
smart suits and hair and make up that would make Xposé proud the night
went off to a great start.
Here's wishing
them all the very best for the future! Click
here for some photos |
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to Top |
| AUGUST
2011 |
Future
looks bright for Balbriggan girls
Source: Fingal
Independent |
CONSTRUCTION work
on a new extension meant students at Loreto Balbriggan had to collect their results
through a different entrance, but judging by the reactions, they're certainly
building for a bright future themselves. Leaving Cert students and their
parents had to instead make their way up Convent Lane, where even the local traffic
warden was caught up in the positive vibes, turning a blind eye to the numerous
cars parked on the narrow one-way street. Tickets of another kind were being dished
out at the school gates with passes to Home nightclub nearly as sought-after as
the results themselves and there was plenty to celebrate for the Loreto girls,
who went into school for the final time, and without their distinctive green uniforms,
last Wednesday. Katie McDonnell was amongst the early birds, who was accompanied
by her proud parents, while Niamh Rutherford and Ciara O'Keeffe were both delighted
with their marks. Annie Baxter may have to control the traffic herself in the
coming years as she hopes to become a garda, while her pal, Kathy O'Melia, hasn't
seen the last of classrooms with a career as a teacher beckoning.
Read the full story here |
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to Top |
|
Snowe
forced to give up council seat
Source: Fingal Independent |
| A
BALBRIGGAN town councillor is being dramatically forced to give up his seat to
a party he no longer belongs to as the State agency he works for gets swallowed
up by the civil service. It is currently against the law for civil servants to
hold political office and as manager of the Balbriggan FÁS office, which will
be part of the civil service machine from January, Cllr Frank Snowe ( NP) must
relinquish his seat on the town council. But there is a twist. Cllr Snowe, was
elected as a member of the Green Party but subsequently left the party after becoming
disillusioned with party politics and realising that as an independent, he could
represent the community first. Despite being now an independent, the Green Party
will have the right to nominate his replacement on the town council with one of
its own and gain back what will be the only Green Party seat not only in Balbriggan,
but in Fingal. An angry Cllr Snowe talked to the Fingal Independent this week
and said he intends to fight the rule that says he must step down from the council
by January 1st to keep his job with FÁS. He has written to the Minister for Social
Protection, Joan Burton TD, who will be his boss in January after FÁS is brought
under the wing of her department. Read the full story
here |
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to Top |
|
Goes
down Balbriggan
Source: Fingal Independent |
| With
a very healthy level of membership and ongoing expansion, Balbriggan FC is currently
in the process of a constructing a new 3G allweather pitch for training and senior
matches and it's hoping to commence work on the project next year. The club currently
fields two senior teams – which operate in the Major Sunday and Division 3A Saturday
divisions of the Leinster Senior League – as well as a senior ladies team. The
underage set-up is even more impressive, with 27 teams at present – 12 for seven
to 10-year-olds and nine for 11 to 18-year-olds, while the girls Under-10 team
is also thriving under the tutelage of Tony and Maria Nolan. Throughout the years
the club has produced many terrific underage teams, and seven seasons ago Noel
Barrett's Under-16s, captained by Keith Delehan, won their league and two cup
competitions. Read more here |
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to Top |
|
Top
leaving Cert Results
Source: Fingal Independent |
| ALTHOUGH
they don't know each other that well, two star students at Loreto Balbriggan appear
to be following a very similar life path and have landed exactly the same staggering
score of 565 in their Leaving Certificate results. Alexa Donnelly and Emma Gilroy
are among the smartest students at the school and they both exceeded their target
scores by netting a fantastic 565 points in their Leaving Certificate. But not
only have the girls scored the same number of points, they are both offered their
preferred course of Law and Business at Trinity College. The course was offered
at 555 points and Alexa from Lusk was delighted when the offers came out on Monday,
securing a place at Trinity College. She has nothing but praise for the Balbriggan
school that has got her this far in her education. Speaking to the Fingal Independent,
she said: 'It was a really good school – really brilliant. The teachers put a
lot of work in and this is as much their work as it is mine.' Read
the full story here
|
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to Top |
|
| Aoife
Curran & Francesca Blasioto from Balbriggan to Play in the All Ireland Final! |
 15-Aug-11:
Aoife Curran & Francesca Blasioto, two young ladies from Balbriggan play with
the under 16 Dublin team. The team have already won the Leinster Title with Dublin
and won the All Ireland semi final against Galway yesterday. The team will now
meet Kerry in the All Ireland Final in the next few weeks. Aoife and Francesca
also both play with O'Dwyers under 15's,16's and the adult team. A
BIG well done to the girls and we wish them the best of luck in the final! Click
here for some more photos |
|
| O'Dwyers
GAA Present Cheques for Christmas Swim 2010 |
 11-Aug-11:
Cheques for €2K were presented to Irish Lung
Fibrosis Association and the Balbriggan Cancer Support group for the O'Dwyers
Christmas Swim 2010 on Wednesday 10th August 2011
Many
thanks to all who participated. Click
here for some photos |
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|
| Swords
CC & McNally Joinery Ladies Race, 9th Aug 2011 |
 10-Aug-11:
11 ladies signed on for a 20k, 2 laps of the Ring Commons circuit. For many riders,
this was their first race, so there were a few nerves on the start line. There
were 2 groups. The first group were Mary Crosbie, Lisa Boardman, Siobhan Moore,
Suzanne Barron and Louise Morgan, all from Fingal Triathlon club. These ladies
had a 2.5 minute lead on the second group, which consisted of Aoife Sheridan (Orwell),
Naoise Sheridan (Orwell), Caoimhe Ivory (Bray), Pam Coleman, Caroline Martinez
(Orwell) and Sinead McBreen (Orwell). Click
here to read more and see some photos |
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to Top |
|
| Notas
Hit the Studio to Record their Demo... |
 09-Aug-11:
Notas, a five piece indie experimental band, who won Balbriggan Summerfest Battle
of the Bands 2011 spent two days in the recording studio this week to record their
demo.
The demo which is part of the bands
prize gives the band a chance to work with Dave McCune Owner/ Producer/ Sound
Engineer at "The Ventry" recording studios in North County Dublin. Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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to Top |
|
| Thompson
scores dominant 1st Japanese F3 Win |
 08-Aug-11:
Gary Thompson, whose father and grandparents
are from Balbriggan, became the first Irish driver to win in Japanese Formula
3 yesterday. Gary won in Twin Ring Motegi, a track that was resurfaced after the
2011 earthquake yesterday morning , by 9 seconds and also had the fastest lap
of the race.
Read
the full storyand view some photos here |
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to Top |
|
Two
bidders breath new life into care centre plans
Source:
Fingal Independent |
THE bid to bring
a major new primary care centre to Balbriggan has been revived after the initial
preferred bidder for the project was sensationally dumped by the HSE. In
May, the Fingal Independent exclusively reported that the HSE had gone back to
the drawing board on the multi-million euro project after the initial bidder '
was not able to secure contractual agreements with GPs to progress the project
at an acceptable pace'. Now it has emerged that two new bidders are on the scene
and new life has been breathed into the project. The news came as Deputy Brendan
Ryan ( Lab) raised the issue with the HSE and sought clarification on the future
of the primary care centre for Balbriggan. Deputy Ryan said: ' I was responding
to a number of queries I received from members of the public in Balbriggan and
indeed in surrounding areas, almost all of whom felt confused at the lack of communication
coming from the HSE about the proposed Primary Care Centre. Read
the full story here |
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to Top |
|
17
New Schools to Open as Pupil Numbers Soar
Source:
Independent.ie |
| SOARING pupil numbers
will see the opening of 14 new second-level schools in 2013 and 2014, on top of
three already announced, writes Katherine Donnelly. Most of the schools will be
built in the Dublin commuter belt that includes Louth, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow
and Wexford. The Department of Education yesterday announced the location of four
new schools to open in 2013: Lusk, Co Dublin; Claregalway, Co Galway; Naas, Co
Kildare; and Navan, Co Meath. In 2014 schools in the Carrigaline/south suburbs
area of Cork city; Blanchardstown West, Mulhuddart, Balbriggan and Dundrum, Co
Dublin; Maynooth, Co Kildare; Drogheda and Dundalk, Co Louth; Ashbourne, Co Meath;
and Greystones, Co Wicklow, will open. These are in addition to schools already
announced for Gorey, Co Wexford; Doughiska, Co Galway; and Lucan/Clonburris, Co
Dublin. The schools in Balbriggan, Cork city, and Dundrum have been designated
by the department as all-Irish Gaelcholaisti, although their patronage has yet
to be decided. Read the full story here |
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to Top |
| JULY
2011 |
VEC Rejects
Claims of Looming ' Crisis'
Source: Fingal Independent |
| THE
County Dublin VEC ( CDVEC) believes it can develop enough places to cater for
the growing demands on the secondary school sector in Balbriggan over the next
few years and rejects talk of a crisis in the sector. The view is at odds with
the principal of Balbriggan Educate Together School, Fintan Mc Cuthcheon who spoke
to the Fingal Independent earlier this month about his fears that the provision
of secondary school places was not keeping pace with the numbers of primary school
pupils who are due to graduate over the next two to three years. But the CDVEC
says there are enough places being developed in its schools in Balbriggan to cope
with that rising demand. The CDVEC said it wanted to ' reassure' parents in Balbriggan
that ' there will be sufficient school places for second level pupils in the current
framework of education planning for the area'. ' While there has been a population
increase in the wider Fingal area – and this is reflected in current pupil numbers
in certain primary schools – there will be no crisis in accommodation for onward
second-level school places in 2012. ' This is at current enrolment levels and
based on the figures in the primary schools at present,' said Dr Marie Griffin,
Chief Executive, County Dublin VEC. Mr McCuthcheon expected a bubble of unusually
high numbers of primary school pupils graduating in 2013 but while the CDVEC recognise
there will be a significant rise in demand for places in that year, it believes
enough places are coming on stream to cope. Read the
full story here |
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to Top |
|
Eason
Plans to Continue Growth
Source: Irish Times |
|
Eason will open other franchises in Balbriggan in Dublin, Carlow and Kilkenny
before the year is out and Whelan hopes to bring the total to 32 within three
years from its current level of 18. The four new stores this year will create
up to 50 jobs and form part of a €20 million retail investment by Eason, which
is also pursuing a separate online strategy to help grow the business. It’s an
aggressive expansion of the brand to say the least, given the “challenging” retail
environment for book sellers, who are suffering both from a weak economy and the
growth in online sales and e-readers. Read the full
story here |
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to Top |
|
Calls
for Special Council Meeting
Source: Fingal Independent |
| A
SPECIAL council meeting has been called for to discuss the ramifications of the
explosive population figures for Balbriggan revealed in this year's Census. Cllr
May McKeon ( NP) called for the meeting to discuss the ' huge increases in population,
particularly in Balbriggan'. She said that the town was ' screaming out for balance'
in providing infrastructure and community facilities for the growing population.
Cllr McKeon said she wanted to find out ' where these people have come from' and
what their needs will be in the future. The independent councillor based in Balbriggan
said that the town could no longer have the names ' rural and urban' attached
and was now a single large urban town. ' There are not two parts of Balbriggan
– it is one fine big urban town,' she said. Read the
full article here |
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to Top |
|
| Kids'
Designs Go On Show at Exhibition |
| THE fantastic
work by local school children who recently displayed their models and paintings
of what they see as the future of Balbriggan is to be included in a prestigious
design exhibition. Local architect and Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce member,
Aoife Banim was behind a recent effort to encourage children from the town to
get involved in the ongoing work on a Public Realm Plan for Balbriggan which ended
in a hugely colourful and impressive exhibition in the Bracken Court Hotel. Aoife
wanted to see how children from primary schools all over Balbriggan reacted to
their environment and what their perceptions of the place were. The resulting
work were models and paintings depicting all kinds of familiar landmarks around
the town and presenting a vision of how Balbriggan's youngest citizens want to
town develop. There was a lot of work put into the exhibition by pupils and teachers
alike and it was food for thought for the adults who may play a part in drawing
up the real plans for the town's future. Read the full
story here |
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to Top |
|
| North
Dublin locals flock to newly opened Boots store in Balbriggan New Store Creates
Jobs for Local Area |
 27-Jul-11:
North Dublin shoppers have more choice than ever before with the official opening
of a new Boots store in Balbriggan today, which provides 13 new jobs for the area.
Located in the Millfield Shopping Centre on the Nual Road, the new store was officially
opened by model & Balbriggan native, Michelle McGrath, local Special Olympian
and silver medalist, Gary O’Brien, as well as Store Manager Joanne Kelly alongside
the Managing Director of Boots Ireland, Debbie Smith.
Read more and view some photos here |
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Second
'South' in Range for Cannon
Source: Irish Independent |
| FORMER
champion Robbie Cannon is chasing a second South of Ireland championship win in
three years after reaching the last four at sun-splashed Lahinch yesterday. Cannon
(32), who confirmed he is playing officially out of Balbriggan in this championship
after some confusion on draw sheets this week, faces 21-year-old Stephen Walsh
of Baltinglass in the semi-final. In the other semi-final, Andrew Hogan (23) from
Newlands plays 21- year-old Kelan McDonagh (Athlone/ NUIM), last year's beaten
finalist. Cannon, who is the strength and conditioning coach at the Darren Clarke
Golf School in Greenmount near Portrush, played out of Laytown & Bettystown when
he won this title in 2009. He admits the possibility of meeting 17-year-old Jack
Hume of Rathsallagh at some stage did cross his mind. That would have brought
master and pupil into opposition, as young Hume attends the school. Read
the full article here |
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| '
Briggan Seeking to Boost Squad |
BALBRIGGAN FC
are looking for experienced players for their Leinster Senior League Major Sunday
team for the coming season. The club can call on a very deep pool of younger players
in the 19 to 21 age group and are looking for older, experienced players who can
help the youngsters develop – and hopefully climb up a league or two in the process.
Balbriggan are fortunate to have a first-class coach and no fewer than 22 underage
teams, which ensures a continuous stream of younger players coming through each
year. If you are interested in joining Balbriggan FC, please contact Michael on
0863334434 or Noel on 0868708165. Meanwhile, Balbriggan FC are hosting one of
the FAI Summer Soccer Schools at the clubhouse, Bath Road, from August 15th to
19th inclusive. Read the full article here
Source:
Fingal Independent |
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| |
Hero
of the Week - Simon Cook nominated as Fingal's hero of the week
Source:
Fingal Independent |
| ONE of north Fingal's
most respected and loved charities has many committed volunteers who all deserve
to be named Hero of the Week but that commitment is perfectly embodied by one
Simon Cook who started volunteering for the charity one year ago. Simon was passing
by the ADHD and Autism shop in Balbriggan a year ago and saw a notice looking
for volunteers and spontaneously he applied. A year later he gives up three days
a week to the charity and all while he fights his own personal battle with MS.
ONE of north Fingal's most respected and loved charities has many committed volunteers
who all deserve a place in this column but that commitment is perfectly embodied
by one Simon Cook who started volunteering for the charity one year ago Simon
was passing by the ADHD and Autism shop in Balbriggan a year ago and saw a notice
looking for volunteers and spontaneously he applied. Read
the full article here |
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Population
Statistics
Source: Fingal Independent |
| Fingal
is the fastest growing of the Dublin local authority areas, with 40% of the population
growth within the Dublin region recorded in Fingal. - The population of Fingal
is now 273,051, up 33,059 people since the 2006 Census, a 13.8% increase and almost
double the national growth rate of 8.1%. - This population increase now means
Fingal constitutes 6% of the national population, up from 5.7%. - Fingal has the
second lowest level of vacant housing in the State at 7%. - The population of
the capital of Fingal, Swords, has grown by 12% and is now bigger than Waterford
City. - Blanchardstown grew by 10% to 100,894 people. It's the biggest single
suburb in the greater Dublin area and is larger than most other cities and towns
in the State. - After a 57% rise, Balbriggan now has a total population of 22,676,
making it one of Ireland's larger towns. - Three of the 10 fastest growing electoral
divisions in the State are in Fingal – Balbriggan Rural, BlanchardstownBlakestown
and The Ward. Read the full article here |
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Nine-
month delay on leaks investigation
Source: Fingal
Independent |
| IT has taken nine months
for Fingal County Council to investigate a complaint by a Balbriggan Town Councillor
about water leaks at a Balbriggan apartment complex. Last September, Cllr Frank
Snowe ( NP) raised concerns about reported water leaks in apartments on Fulham
Street at a meeting of Balbriggan Town Council. But with little or no response
since, Cllr Snowe asked the question again this month when it emerged that it
was only in late June the investigation into the problem began – a full nine months
after the issue was first raised. The council's water services department explained:
' The drainage inspector investigated the quality of the water and found three
blockages in the private drainage system of the apartments that may be contributing
to the water problem. ' He cleared one of the blockages. The other two will be
cleared by the housing department. Read the full article
here |
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Provisions
needed to prevent ' crisis'
Source: Fingal Independent |
| FINGAL
is in danger of a housing ' crisis' in the coming years unless provisions are
made to deal with its everincreasing population, the county's former mayor has
warned. Ex-councillor, Joe Corr, who is a spatial planning consultant, said north
County Dublin was one of the few areas where housing would be in short supply,
particularly around major growth regions such as Swords and Balbriggan. Mr Corr
predicted economic recovery would first occur on the east coast of the country,
specifically in the Dublin region, noting Fingal's position within the Dublin-Belfast
economic corridor would ensure it contributed to the national recovery. However,
he said the county needed to be ready for that comeback, adding there would be
a strong need for development land to be available for the future. ' If Fingal
is not ready, it will feed into a housing crisis for the Fingal region,' Mr Corr
told the Fingal Independent. ' Many people talk about the ghost estates and the
surplus of housing. Read the full article here |
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| O'Dwyers
Under 8 Hurlers Excel in Croke Park.. |
 18-Jul-11:
The O'Dwyers Under 8 Hurlers fulfilled a GAA persons dream
by playing in Croke Park on 12th July 2011. The team were put up against a very
strong and talented team, Naomh Olaf . They played 2 games and in the first game
O'Dwyers Green Team came from a goal down to win their game by 2 goals.
In
the second game the O'Dwyers white team also had to come from behind to winand
ran out 4 goals to one. It was a fab day organised by the Leinster GAA. The team
were also sponsered a medical kit by McCartans Pharmacy to assist in keeping them
all in good health throughout the season. The
team would like to thank McCartans for their generosity.. Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
& District Historical Society 30th Anniversary Seminar |
 17-Jul-11:
Balbriggan And District Historical Society which was established on 16th July
1981, held a full day seminar 30 years to the day on which it was established.
The goal of the society is to promote an interest in the local history of Balbriggan
& District through lectures, publications and exhibitions. A cake was specially
made by the Coffee Pot for the occasion and it went down a treat. Click
here for some photos |
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| 34th/161st
Balbriggan Scout Group heading to Sweden for an International Scout Jamboree... |
 15-Jul-11:
Later this month 16 members of the 34th/161st
Balbriggan Scout Group are travelling to Sweden as part of the largest ever Irish
contingent to participate in an International Scout Jamboree. Over 38,000 are
attending from all but 6 nations in the world. On Thursday 14th July at 8pm the
Scout Group hosted a "Send Off Evening" for the scouts and their families as well
as local dignitaries.
Click
here for some photos |
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New
Exhibition Tells Tale Behind Towers
Source: Fingal
Independent |
THE coastline across Dublin
is dotted with the familiar landmarks of Martello Towers but the stories behind
iconic buildings are now contained in a fascinating new exhibition. The
new exhibition entitled 'Martello Towers of Dublin' documents the history of the
towers from their construction to the present day. It tells the story of each
of the 28 towers built from Balbriggan to Bray, which coincidentally was occupied
by U2 frontman Bono, to defend the capital from French Invasion in the early years
of the 19th century. Among the contributors are public relations guru Terry
Prone and her husband Tom Savage, who own the tower in Portrane. They, along with
other owners tell their stories and give an insight into what it is like to live
in such a property. It runs in Fingal County Hall until August 22nd before moving
to Rush Library from August 22nd to September 2nd. Read
the full story here |
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| County
Dublin VEC reassures Balbriggan parents on school places |
Next
phase of Ardgillan Community College going to design stage. New sports hall on
way for Balbriggan Community College The leading schools and education provider,
County Dublin VEC has reassured parents in Balbriggan and wider Fingal that there
will be sufficient school places for second-level pupils in the current framework
of education planning for the area. Monday 11th July, 2011. On school places,
County Dublin VEC manages Community Colleges and Community National Schools throughout
County Dublin including Fingal and has a complete perspective of the situation
in each local area within the County, the VEC stated. “While there has
been a population increase in the wider Fingal area - and this is reflected in
current pupil numbers in certain primary schools - there will be no crisis in
accommodation for onward second-level school places in 2012. This is at current
enrolment levels and based on the figures in the primary schools at present,”
said Dr. Marie Griffin, Chief Executive, County Dublin VEC. “ In 2013, there
will an approximate 25% increase in the number of second-level entrants. However,
both the Balbriggan Community College and Ardgillan Community College will be
increasing their enrolment figures to meet this need.” “The second-level
enrolment figures will drop again in 2014. Therefore, there are sufficient places
in Balbriggan for second-level entry.” Dr. Griffin also revealed that Ardgillan
Community College will shortly begin design work for the second phase of its building
programme. “The design team for Phase Two of Ardgillan Community College will
be appointed by the Autumn to create a school that will accommodate 1,000 pupils.”
Balbriggan Community College will also begin construction of a new state-of-the-art
sports hall before the end of this year. This sports hall will be a joint venture
with Fingal County Council and will also cater for community need in the evenings
and at weekends. Dr. Griffin added that the VEC patroned Scoil Chormaic
Community National School will be taking 60 students into junior infants and there
is also no indication to date of any major shortage of places for primary school
entry. |
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| Fingal
Triathlon & Swords Cycling Club Bike Skills Day |
 12-Jul-11:
The Fingal Triathlon and Swords Cycling
Club Bike Skills day was a great success with cyclists and triathletes from all
over North Co Dublin participating in this event at McNally Joinery. Tony Brennan,
a senior bike mechanic from Cyclelogical Bike Store in Dublin began the day by
talking about maintaining and caring for a bike, which included how to check for
wear, how to mend a puncture and other basic mechanics. Bernie McNally, local
cyclist, triathlete and personal trainer spoke briefly about the right type of
clothing to take on a spin and how to fuel before, during and after a spin. Read
the full story here
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| Civic
Reception to Mark Balbriggan Historical Society 30 Years |
 An
Cathaoirleach of Balbriggan Town Council, Councillor Grainne Maguire hosted a
Civic Reception for Balbriggan & District Historical Society to mark the 30th
Anniversary of the Society in the town. The Civic Reception took place on Wednesday
6th July 2011 at 7.30 p.m. in the Town Hall, Georges Square, Balbriggan.
Addressing
the invited audience, Cathoirleach Maguire paid tribute to the service povided
by the Historical Society to the people of Balbriggan over the past thirty years.
"On behalf of the Town Council and the people of Balbriggan, I congratulate you
on your achievement and can assure you of the Town Councils support in order to
assist the society to continue to showcase the valuable contribution that you
make to our town and community" stated Councillor Maguire. An Cathaoirleach,
Councillor Maguire presented a framed picture of the Blessing of the Boats at
Balbriggan Harbour in 1960 on behalf of Balbriggan Town Council to Mr. Tony McNamara,
Chairman, of Balbriggan & District Historical Society. Mr. Tony McNamara
spoke about the early days of Historical Society which was founded on 16th July,
1981. He also acknowledged the hard work that all past and present members of
the society have done over the last 30 years. Mr Tony McNamara expressed his gratitude
on behalf of Balbriggan & District Historical Society to Balbriggan Town Council
for hosting a civic reception to recognise the thirtieth anniversary of the Historical
Society in the town. For further information please contact Brian Murray,
Town Clerk at 8412178 Click
here for some photos |
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Extra
Lane on M1
Source: Fingal Independent |
| HAVING
been through a public consultation phase, the construction of an extra lane on
the M1 in both directions between two of its junctions has won approval at the
council. The council and the National Roads Authority (NRA) are preparing for
the work which will include the construction of an additional lane on the motorway
in each direction along the central median from Junction Three at Drinan to Junction
Four at Lissenhall. Read the full story here |
| JUNE
2011 |
Drilling
to Start at New Port Site
Source: Drogheda Independent
|
| A number of boreholes are to be drilled
off Bremore Head, between Gormanston and Balbriggan, during the latest phase of
the proposed deepwater port for the area. Drogheda Port Company has sought tenders
for offshore drilling and boring work as well as laboratory testing. The contract
is for 10 boreholes with an option for a further five holes. The timeframe is
nine months for the work. The boring is likely to shed more light on the exact
location of the port, which has been the subject of much debate. Fears over archaeological
disturbance has led those behind the project to carefully consider between an
area at Bremore, close to a former ancient port or back towards Gormanston. An
Taisce has expressed reservations about the size of the development and the impact
it could have on what it believes in an historic area. According to the backers,
'Bremore Ireland Port is one of the most exciting and important infrastructural
projects to be undertaken in Ireland in decades'. Preparations for the new port
began in 2002 after it was felt there was a pending issue with capacity along
the entire east coast. Read the full story here |
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Mobile
Media Store Mobilise the Troops for a Good Cause
Source:
Fingal Independent |
| Mobile
Media Store in Balbriggan have presented Man O' War GFC with a portable defibrillator
and training for 12 people to use the important life-saving device. This was achieved
by the club members and the local community collecting old mobile phones, with
more than 500 collected, which were recycled and sold to raise funds. Mobile Media
Store was established in Balbriggan two years ago and offers customers a wide
choice of mobile phones and broadband services. The company are are also involved
in 3 Irelands support of grassroots football. Members and supporters of Local
FAI clubs who switch to Three will get money for their chosen club in a € 10 million
support fund for local football. Click
here to read the full story |
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| FETAC
Student's Create Wonderful Garden |
 24-Jun-11:
A group of students on a FETAC Community
Participation Course with Fingal Adult Education Centre in Balbriggan set about
looking for a suitable project in the Balbriggan area.
Their
goal was to carry out a project that would benefit the community and give them
a sense of achievement and an opportunity to learn something new. Together with
their teacher Fiona Kavanagh they identified an area in the town, at the junction
of Drogheda Street and Brecan Close, which was badly in need of a facelift. Read
the full story here |
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| Pupils
from St. Georges School Donate Cheque to Meals on Wheels... |
 24-Jun-11:
The pupils of St. Georges School, donated
a cheque for €160 which was the proceeds of their singing skills. The cheque was
presented to Meals on Wheels this morning in their 'kitchen' on Hampton Street.
Many thanks to the pupils, 38, in all, who visited the Kitchen this morning and
then went on to sing at the Farmers Market. A BIG well done to all!
Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Integrates, 1st Public Meeting |
 22-Jun-11:
The first meeting of the Balbriggan Integrates
took place in the Hamilton Hall, in the Town Council offices on Wednesday 22nd
June.
Championed by Councillor Frank Snow
and Seyi Allen Taylor from the Nigerian Community, the two men have been talking
for some time about how best to encourage integration between the various communities
in Balbriggan. Read
the full story here |
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| Balbriggan
TaeKwon-Do Academy Kick Start the Summer! |
 22-Jun-11:
On Saturday May 28th Balbriggan TaeKwon-Do Academy came together in their
first annual Kickathon to attempt to complete 10,000 kicks in one hour. Everyone
trained and practiced hard in the run up to the event which was evident on the
day with 13,920 kicks being completed in under the hour.
Click
here to read the full article |
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| Flowers,
Flowers, Everywhere... |
 20-Jun-11:
The town is looking really well with all the flowers outside the shops
and on the town square. I passed the town square the other evening and the lovely
perfume of the flowers was a real joy. With the longest day of the year tomorrow
here's hoping that the weather improves...
Click
here for some photos |
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| Work
on McDonalds in Balbriggan well underway |
 20-Jun-11:
The building work is coming along nicely on the new McDonalds which is
due to open in Balbriggan in the near future. Located at the rear of Millfield
Shopping Centre the building work is underway and appears to be going at a good
pace.
Click
here for some photos |
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| Ireland
Cricket Coach Phil Simmons visits Balbriggan |
 18-Jun-11:
Ireland cricket coach Phil Simmons recently
visited Balbriggan Cricket Club. Phil is pictured with First team captain Paddy
Martin, senior players Adrian and Clifford Harper, plus Steven Harper and Daniel
Forde from the U11’s.
Click
here to read more and see a larger version of the photo... |
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| Tom
and Breege O'Neill of Balbriggan with their Guide Dogs Sarge and Unice meet An
Taoiseach Enda Kenny |
 15-Jun-11:
Local Guide Dog owners Tom and Breege
O'Neill of Balbriggan with their Guide Dogs Sarge and Unice meet An Taoiseach
Enda Kenny On Monday 13th June The Taoiseach Enda Kenny T.D. officially opened
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind's €5 million redeveloped facility at their National
Headquarters and Training Centre on Model Farm Road Cork as they celebrated their
35th anniversary.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Ardgillan
College Student, Eanna Reynolds is awarded the Junior Northern Ireland Young Scientist
Runner Up 2011 |
 18-Jun-11:
Ardgillan College Student, Eanna Reynolds is awarded the Junior Northern
Ireland Young Scientist runner up for 2011.
Eight
students travelled with their teacher and young scientist mentor, Theresa Gannon
to the finals of the Sentinus Northern Ireland Young Scientist and Innovator on
Tuesday 14th June, in the Odyssey Arena in Belfast. Their projects ranged from
Melanoma Awareness to such diverse investigations like the intrinsic and extrinsic
factors influencing an individual's handwriting. Click
here to read the full story and view some
photos |
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There's
no money for those affected - Pyrite
Source: Fingal
Independent |
| JONATHAN Jennings bought
his house in Balbriggan in 2007, but within six months began to notice a series
of cracks. After being told they were the result of settlement, the situation
deteriorated and it wasn't until a leaflet came through his door, outlining other
cases of pyrite in the area that he realised that pryite could be the problem.
He estimates quite a few houses in his estate could be affected by pyrite. Here,
he tells Robin Kiely what it's like living in a 'vicious circle' 'Clare Daly organised
a meeting to get residents in the Balbriggan area together. It was a real eyeopener.
We formed our own residents' association on the back of those meetings. 'There
is a substantial crack in the floor from the front to the back. Homebond looked
at it and said it warranted further investigation, but did not admit it was pyrite.
' There are cracks in the walls, in some places the plaster board had buckled
as it forced against the ceiling, we have doors jamming in their frames. You can
see the tiles have shifted out of alignment. Read the
full article here
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Gannon
sells farm in Hayestown, Balbriggan for €1.5m
Source:
Irish Times |
| PROPERTY developer Gerry
Gannon has sold the 105-acre College Farm at Hayestown, Balbriggan, Co Dublin,
for €1.5 million. The price works out an average of €14,285 per acre for the land
which has 1.4 km of road frontage. It is located close to the M1 motorway. Agents
HT Meagher O’Reilly, who handled the sale, has also sold a 57-acre farm beside
Durrow, Co Laois, for €450,000 - equating to €7,900 per acre. The agency has now
completed farm sales of around €5 million over the past year. These included 74
acres at Straffan, Co Kildare, for €1.3 million, 127 acres at Maynooth for €1.1
million and 47 acres at Dunboyne for €500,000. |
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IDA
Accused of Ignoring Balbriggan
Source: Fingal Independent |
THE
IDA failed to name a single incidence of a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) company
being shown around the town in the last four years in a vague reply to a direct
question in the Dáil on how many times potential foreign investment were sold
the idea of moving to the north Fingal town by the IDA. In a question put
to the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Brendan Ryan asked
the number of times 'potential foreign direct investment clients' were shown around
Balbriggan in the last four years. But the reply only referred to the County
Dublin region in its entirety and showed an average of 100 site visits over the
last four years. The figures for jobs were even vaguer, applying only to the IDA's
East Region which includes Fingal but also Dublin City and Dublin Count as well
as Kildare, Meath and Wicklow. This is the largest region in Ireland and one of
the fastest growing economic zones in Western Europe, according to the IDA which
said the East Region is home to 60,935 Foreign Direct Investment jobs. IDA Ireland
says it promotes Fingal for foreign direct investment as part of the East Region.
. Read the full story here |
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| Grainne
Maguire elected Cathaoirleach at Balbriggan Town Council Annual Meeting |
  Grainne
Maguire elected Cathaoirleach at Balbriggan Town Council Annual Meeting Balbriggan
Town Council held its annual meeting on Tuesday 7th June 2011 at the Town Hall
in Georges Square, where the elected representatives chose a new Cathaoirleach
and Leas Cathaoirleach.
Councillor Grainne Maguire was elected Cathaoirleach,
succeeding Councillor Frank Snowe, while Councillor Larry Dunne was elected Leas
Cathaoirleach succeeding Grainne Kilmurry. Outgoing Cathaoirleach Councillor
Snowe thanked the County Manager David O'Connor and the officials in both the
Town Council and Fingal County Council along with his fellow elected members for
their hard work during the past year on behalf of the people of Balbriggan. The
County Manager, David O'Connor paid tribute to Councillor Snowe on his term of
office and noted he deserved great credit for the amount of public duty he carried
out and the manner in which he represented the Council during the past year. Councillor
Maguire thanked her fellow councillors for electing her and stated that is was
a great honour to represent the people of Balbriggan and indeed represent her
fellow Town Councillors. Councillor Maguire stated "My mission statement
has not changed in the past two years and we can make a difference by working
together to continue the good work of the Balbriggan Town Council and indeed the
community of Balbriggan". |
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Leoina,
A Garda based in Balbriggan in bid to make 'Rose' final
Source:
Argus.ie |
Louth Rose Leoina Lennon
failed in her bid to reach the Rose of Tralee international finals, but pledged
to proudly represent her county for the next year. Leoina, from Jenkinstown was
one of 53 contestants at the selection event in Portlaoise last weekend. ' There
were just 23 of the contestants got through to the finals, the competition was
very tough,' said mum Ann Lennon. 'She didn't get through, and wasn't disappointed
as such as she was really thrilled for those who went forward. But she didn't
want to let her county down,' added Ann. 'However she is delighted to be the Louth
Rose for the next year, and will also be invited along with all the other Roses
to the international festival in Tralee in August.' Leoina, a garda based
in Balbriggan, battled illness and exhaustion
to make it to the selection event. 'She was very busy working a lot before last
weekend, and was quite sick by the time she got there. She made it through the
interviews but lost her voice at one stage.' Read the
full story here
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| Boots
has New Rent Policy |
| UK Chemist chain Boots has
signalled a new policy on renting shops in unproven shopping locations by opting
to pay a percentage of its turnover rather than any kind of a fixed rent where
there is uncertainty about the viability of the store. Boots is to trade from
a well-located shop unit opposite Tesco in the Balbriggan centre. It will have
418sq m (4,500sq ft) of retail space and another 185sq m (2,000sq ft) of storage
space overhead. Savills and Jones. Read the full story
here |
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| Congratulations
to Grainne Maguire the new Cathaoirleach |
 07-Jun-11:
A BIG Congratulations to Grainne Maguire
the new Cathaoirleach of Balbriggan. Grainne is a key member of the community
and is involved in numerous clubs and groups, including the Balbriggan Summerfest
Committe.
The role of the Cathaoirleach is
to provide civic leadership, facilitate dialogue with organisations and with citizens
and be proactive in raising the profile of Balbriggan and we can be sure that
Grainne will take on this role with the same drive and enthusiasm that she gives
to everything else that she puts her hand do. Congratulations
Grainne! |
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| Balbriggan
Summerfest - What a Fantastic Success... |
 05-Jun-11:
A BIG Congratulations to the Balbriggan Summerfest Committee for an exceptional
week of entertainment. The committee have worked hard throughout the year to put
on a festival which, I'm sure you will all agree, was fantastic to say the least!
To organise a festival of this magnitude takes an emmense amount of hard work,
time, and selflessness, which the committee have done in abundance. Please join
me in congratulating the team and make sure to give them all a thumbs up next
time you see them and let's see how many thumbs up they get . (I'm sure they will
all sleep for an entire week after this weekend - which of course they all deserve!!!
and I'm sure their families will be glad to have them back!!!)
Go
to our photos page for photos from the Balbriggan Summerfet
2011 |
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| World
Record Attempt Smashed By Remember us and the people of Balbriggan! |
 03-Jun-11:
Remember Us Special Needs Group supported
by the Garda Siochana Linked The Community Together
on Friday night and smashed a Guinness World Record To Handcuff a Record Breaking
Number of People Together to Raise Vital Funds For The Group.
We
had to break the old record of 651 and we had 912 people linked together on the
night!!!!!!! Well done the people of Balbriggan. There
was great community spirit at the event. Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| MAY
11 |
| Foroige
Citizenship Awards 2011 |
 31-May-11:
The Youth Committee Of Balbriggan Youth Service
were crowned regional Champions last week at the Foroige Citizenship awards 2011.
The prestigious event, held in Blanchardstown Crowne Plaza was a wonderful showcase
of the brightest and cleverest community-minded young people Dublin has to offer.
Read more here |
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|
Drogheda
Port Pushes Ahead with Deepwater Plan
Source: Sunday
Business Post |
| Drogheda Port pushes
ahead with deepwater plan 29 May 2011 By John Burke Drogheda Port Company has
sought tenders from engineering firms to carry out investigations off Bremore
Head in Dublin, as it bids to advance plans for a major deepwater port in the
area. The partners in the project, Drogheda Port and Treasury Holdings,
are looking at two possible sites for the €350 million facility, Bremore in north
Dublin and further north at Gormanston in Meath. The firms are working with Hong
Kong conglomerate Hutchison Whampoa on plans for a port with initial freight capacity
of ten million tons a year. The port company is seeking tenders from engineering
firms to drill up to 20 offshore boreholes at Bremore and carry out laboratory
testing on the location, despite concerns about the possible impact of a port
on archeological sites in the area. Treasury has said it wants to avoid developing
the facility at a location that could interfere with a historical site. Paul Fleming,
chief executive of Drogheda Port Company, could not be contacted to comment on
whether the tender indicated a decision to proceed with plans for a port at Bremore.
Read the full article here |
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| Balbriggan
Community Show Choir & North Dublin community Gospel Choir Win all Around |
30-May-11:On
Sunday 22nd May Balbriggan Community Show Choir and North Dublin community Gospel
choir travelled down to Aims Choral Festival New Ross Wexford, in which they joined
together to enter . Both choirs sang in two
competitions that day the first competition was the female competition the choir
sang 'Halle', 'Hallelujah' and 'Proud Mary'. Out of 12 choirs entering from all
over Ireland, they won 2nd place receiving over 86 marks they were presented with
a 2nd place certificate. Later that after noon they entered the Gospel Choir Competition
in which they sang 2 songs 'oh happy day' and 'my love my life my all'. They won
1st place and received 87 marks and was presented with the Tipperary Crystal Trophy.
Both choirs are conducted by Jonathan Davies who founded the choirs. North
Dublin Gospel Choir was formed in june 16th 2009 and have won many awards to date
just some of there awards are in the Sligo International Choral 2009, Navan Choral
Festival 2010 and New Ross Choral Festival 2010. In December 2010 the choir appeared
on ireland am on TV3 Balbriggan Community
Show choir was formed 28th Feb 2011 and has appox 20 members to date and growing
the choir is fun lively and upbeat. On wednesday June 1st at 7:30pm both choirs
will sing at the school choir competition as guests in St. Peter and Pauls Church,
Balbriggan. Balbriggan Show Choir are still
looking for people to get involved they practice on Monday nights at 8.00pm in
the Bracken Court Hotel . |
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| Balbriggan's
First Triathlon...What a Great Success! |
 28-May-11:
The first ever Balbriggan Summerfest,
Fingal Tri Triathlon took place today and what a fantastic event it was. A lot
of hard work and organisation went into making this event happen. Over 180 athletes
took part and there was a fantastic athmosphere as the athletes made their way
to the swim, then onto the bikes and back for the run to finish the event.
A
special thanks to Rush Sailing Club crew for inviting me out onto their boat to
get some photos. Click
here for some photos . Click
here for the Race Results!!! |
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| Bumper
June Auction to Suit Residential Investors |
27-May-11:
Gunne's have lined up a number of keenly priced residential investments
including a choice of houses as well as a residential development prospect for
a bumper auction on June 30. In all 10 properties will be auctioned at least five
of which would suit investors. The catalogue includes apartments, houses and period
properties and at least one has Section 23 tax relief. In
north Co Dublin, Apartment 11, Linnen Hall, Georges Hill, Balbriggan, is an ideal
investor opportunity. This well-presented one-bed apartment in the heart of Balbriggan
town and just two minutes walk from the train station comes with Section 23 relief
worth around €50,000. Located in a contemporary-style building with landscaped
garden for residents, Linnen Hall is beside amenities and is a short walk from
the harbour. Presented in pristine condition, this one-bed unit with a balcony
has a reserve price of just €60,000 and a rental income of approximately €8,400.
Read the full story here |
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| Flashback,
A Blast from the Past... |
 26-May-11:
20 years ago the member of Flashback
played in various bands in and around the city of Dublin. The talent of musicians
and singers in Balbriggan at the time was know the length and breadth of the country.
With Summer fest 2011 approaching the lads decided to reform and they will perform
at the Band Day during the festival.
Click
here to read more and for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Historical Society Talk "Mill Races & Water Power in Balbriggan" |
 25-May-11:
Balbriggan & District Historical Society
talk on "Mill Races & Water Power in Balbriggan" was held on Wednesday by Rory
McKenna. Wednesday, 25th May in the Town Hall Balbriggan. Another very good evening
and enjoyed by all.
Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Community College Student Awards 2011 |
 25-May-11:
The annual awards for outstanding students in Balbriggan
Community College were recognised with the ceremony held in the Bracken Court
Hotel Balbriggan to a packed audience.
The
overall student of the year went to Cian Mc Leod to the delight of the crowd.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Loreto
Graduation Party |
 24-May-11:
The Graduation took place last night of the
Loreto Students who are finishing their final year in the school.
After
a mass in St. Peter & Pauls the graduating students put on their glad rags
and headed out for a night in Harbour Knights. Here are some photos of the students
enjoying their night Click
here to view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Jeweller Tommy Caffrey Retires |
 23-May-11:
Local Jeweller and table tennis legend Tommy Caffrey finally closes the
door to his Jewellery shop in Bridge St. on Saturday 28th May 2011.
Tommy opened his business in 1967 in a shop once owned by Una Lawless which at
the time was famous for its ice creams and jars of sweets. "Oh how I remember
that Ice cream" Read the full article here |
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| Lá
na Club @ O'Dwyers GAA Club |
 22-May-11:
O'Dwyers Lá na Club annual family day was held in the club grounds on Sunday afternoon
22nd May. The day began with a parade from St. Peter & Pauls Church carpark at
1.30pm led by St Patrick's Brass & Reed Band to O'Dwyers club grounds for family
fun day.
Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Easter Matches, 19th April 2011 - A Balbriggan Gardaí
Community Initiative |
 | 21-May-11:
Garda Kate Daly Ní Bhroin and Garda David Sheeran liaised with Paul Keogh, FAI
development officer for the district in the running of the football tournament,
on the 19th of April for youth’s aged between 13-19 years within the town. Read
the full article here |
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| Balbriggan
Citizens Advice Centre Official Opening |
 20-May-11:
The Balbriggan Citizens Advice Centre
held it's official opening today. The Citizens Information Centres are funded
and supported by the Citizens Information Board.
They
provide free, confidential, independent and impartial information to all. The
Citizens Information Board also produces a number of publications about your rights
and entitlements. Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Summerfest Launch Summerfest Rocks ... |
 20-May-11:
Members of the Balbriggan Summerfest
Committee today launched their Ballbriggan Summerfest candy stick rocks at the
Balbriggan Town Hall. Grainne Maguire and Joe Kelly presented Cathaoirleach Frank
Snowe, Joan Burton - Minister for Social Protection , Councillors May McKeon,
Monica Harford, and Peadar O'Kelly with the first rocks which will go on sale
in local shops. The
rocks have Balbriggan printed on the inside and are sure to bring childhood memories
flooding back for those who remember the last time rocks where on sale in Balbriggan.
All proceeds from the sale of the rocks will go towards funding this, and future
Summerfest events. Click
here for some photos Make
sure to to buy a rock and support your local festival! |
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| Bank
of Ireland, Balbriggan - National Enterprise Week |
 | 20-May-11:
For the third consecutive year Bank of Ireland has
held National Enterprise Week or as Eoin Kelly, Branch Manager like's to call
it “Show your Business” week. The week runs
from Friday 20th May to Friday 27th May inclusive. Bank of Ireland Balbriggan
have encouraged all local businesses to display & showcase their products & services
in their branch premises. Read the full
article here |
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Balbriggan
Gaelcholáiste could solve capacity crisis
Source:
Fingal Independent |
18-May-11:
Scenes that attracted worldwide attention in 2007 when Balbriggan was forced
to open an 'emergency school' could return unless the Department of Education
stops dragging its heels over the opening of a new secondary school, it has been
warned. That is the view of the people behind a proposed new Balbriggan secondary
school project that stands willing and able to solve the town's school capacity
problems at a stroke this September if the Department of Education will just give
it the green light. With a nod and minimal funding from the Department
of Education, a new 'Gaelcholáiste' which will deliver secondary school education
through the Irish language for the first time in Balbriggan, is ready to go. A
site which is already owned by the Department of Education is available in the
town but the delay in approving the project has already cost school authorities
the chance to secure discount prefabricated classrooms for the site as time ticks
on towards the start of the new academic year.
Read
the full article here |
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Thousands
Spent on 'Unsuitable' Prefabs
Source: Fingal Independent |
| 19-May-11:
THE Department of Education is continuing to fork out tens of thousands of euro
on prefab accommodation across Fingal, which is unsuitable for the needs of modern-day
schools. Against the wishes of principals, staff, parents, children and boards
of management, the Department purchased prefabs on at least two sites since Christmas
instead of providing permanent extensions. At St Sylvester's Infant School in
Malahide, children have been educated in temporary accommodation for three decades.
While in St Molaga's National School in Balbriggan, children are being educated
in prefabs which are 'unsuited to the requirements of a 21st century school',
its principal has claimed. St Cronan's Senior National School in Swords has been
waiting for 10 years for a new school, yet the department shells out € 88,000
per annum on renting prefabs there. Read the full article
here |
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Call
on the Department to Define 'Temporary'
Source: Fingal
Independent |
19-May-11:
Children in Balbriggan are being educated in prefabs which are 'unsuited to the
requirements of a 21st century school', its principal has claimed. Principal of
St Molaga's National School Pauline Costello has now called on the Department
of Education to define the meaning of 'temporary' given that they have been waiting
years for a permanent extension. Ms Costello has criticised the department's
failure to approve the new building despite that the fact that it has been classed
as 'Priority 1' for a number of years. She said that 12 classes were accommodated
in prefabs, while just eight were contained the original school building. The
prefabs were installed between 2000 and 2005, yet the school first applied for
a new extension in 1999 because of the projected increase in enrolment numbers.
Many of the new areas of Balbriggan like Cardy Rock, Dun Saithne and Moylaragh
fall into the catchment area of the school. 'We have failed to secure a permanent
extension yet we have been Priority 1 for a number of years,' said Ms Costello.
Some 459 children are currently enrolled at the school. The Board of Management
has taken a decision not to allow any increase in numbers because it has deemed
prefabs unsuitable for permanent Ms Costello said the department purchased the
prefabs before Christmas under the value added scheme even though the Board of
Management didn't agree with the decision. Read the
full article here
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| There
is a Doctor in the House ... |
 17-May-11:
A BIG congratulations to Jane Carroll of
Hampton Cove, Balbriggan. Jane was conferred with a Doctorate in Philosophy in
Trinity College Dublin .
Jane's thesis will
be published in England shortly.
Another
great achievement from a local Balbriggan person!
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| Getting
Fingal North Dublin back to work! |
 16-May-11:
In response to being recently made redundant a young Balbriggan based entrepreneur
Nora Casey has set up a Dog Walking/ Pet Sitting business.
Nora
provides an alternative lifestyle choice for busy pet owners in Fingal North Dublin.
She will walk your dog, sit your dog or cat, and bring him/her to appointments.
Nora also provide a security check and other home services while you are away.
Starting at €12 per/hour. Peace of mind at a reasonable price! Phone Nora on 0877656433
or through her website www.dontfretaboutyourpet.weebly.com |
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| Paint
Scheme for Balbriggan Progressing |
13-May-11:
Work is progressing nicely on the Balbriggan Paint Scheme which is an initiative
between Balbriggan Town Council and the business community, with the support of
Dulux Paints, to work together on improving the appearance of buildings in the
town centre by creating a co-ordinated colour scheme for the town. Two more shops
have been freshly painted in the past few weeks; Eurospar in Drogheda Street and
O'Lorcans in Dublin Street with the co-operation of the proprietor, Gerry Andrews.
Read more here |
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| Balbriggan
Fire Brigade Responds to Malicious Fire... |
 Members
of the Balbriggan and Skerries Fire Brigade where called to a fire in the fields
at the back of Ardgillen Heights and Castlelands.
The
call came through from residents in Castlelands who reported large plumes of smoke
in the field. Click
here to read more and for some photos |
|
 Congratulations
to Glebe North FC
08-May-11: Glebe
North FC won the Chairle Cahill Cup 4-1 on pens after extra time after the
game finished 2-2 at full time. Congratulations
to Glebe and Liam and all the squad on this great win! |
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Sections
of M1 closed
Source: irishtrucker.com |
| 06-May-11:
Any hauliers heading in the direction of the M1 motorway this morning (Friday)
should be made aware that there are major delays along the route. Earlier this
morning, there was a two-car accident between the Balbriggan south junction and
the Lissenhall junction. This area is becoming a well known spot for collisions.
The road has been temporarily blocked until the emergency service have attended
the scene and the vehicles involved have been removed from the road. The AA has
reported that there are currently tailbacks of three kilometres and have advised
motorists to use alternative routes if possible. |
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| Tree
Cops - Making a difference in Balrothery, Co Dublin |
Sixteen
year old brothers Juvan and Christivan Maritz applied for and received a small
grant from SpunOut.ie to make a difference in
their local community. Read their
story here |
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| 50th
Wedding Celebrations of Noel & Breda Campbell |
 01-May-11:
50 years ago to the day Noel Campbell and Breda
Maguire walked down the aisle in Balbriggan church to start a wonderful love story.
1st May 2011 saw the happy couple celebrate their Golden Wedding Day when family
and friends gathered in The Glenside Hotel for a special blessing and of course
to party the night away. Also there on the day were all of Noel and Breda's 15
grandchildren. It was a beautiful occasion and we would like to wish Noel & Breda
many happy years together in the future. Click
here for
some photos |
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| Balrothery
FC vs Shelbourne FC |
 01-May-11:
Balrothery FC played against Shelbourne FC on Sunday
the 1st May in Glebe North Balbriggan. The match was for The Care For Kids Charity
in association with Dublin's 98FM. Shelbourne won 2/0 but the main winners on
the day the sick children who visit these hospitals.
Thanks
to all who took part and supported the match...Click
here for
some photos |
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APRIL 2011201 |
Parents
panic as rash disease spreads in city
Source: Herald.ie |
30-Apr-11:
Parents have been in a state of panic since a contagious illness broke out among
Dublin children, causing fever and a rash on their hands, feet, and mouths. Incidents
of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) have been reported in areas including Clondalkin,
Tallaght, Milltown, Balbriggan, the city centre and Kildare in the past few weeks.
The illness affects children aged under 10, according to the HSE, and it is spread
by direct contact with nose and throat discharges of those infected and by coughing
and sneezing. Symptoms of the disease are fever, followed by the appearance of
painful sores around the mouth and throat. A rash can also appear on the hands,
feet and inside the child's cheeks. Creches and primary schools will be on red
alert and parents are being asked not to bring their children to school if they
suspect they have the disease.
Read the full article
here |
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| Fingal
Old IRA Commemorative Society 1916-1921 Annual Easter Memorial Mass in Balbriggan
2011 |
 24-Apr-11:
Some photographs taken today at the annual Easter Memorial Mass which was
followed by a parade to the memorial bridge to remember Seamus Lawless and John
Gibbons and all who died in the fight for independence. Mr. Jim Nugent placed
a wreath to honour the men and women who died in the conflict which was followed
by the reading of the Proclamation by Councillor May McKeon.
It was a lovely and fitting occasion and well done to the 2011 Executive Committee.
Click
here for some photos |
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| O'Dwyers
GAA Afternoon of Juvenile Set Dancing |
 22-Apr-11:
An afternoon of Juvenile Set Dancing took place in O'Dwyers GAA clubhouse
on Sunday 10th April 2011 to encourage the children to carry on our dancing culture.
Teams took part from St Teresa's National
School, Balrothery National School and O'Dwyers GAA Culture Group. It was a successful
afternoon and all the participants received a medal. Click
here to read more and view some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Cancer Support Group Easter Raffle... |
 21-Apr-11:
The Balbriggan Cancer Support where at the Fish
and Farmers Market today to raise much needed funds for their group. They would
like to thank the Balbriggan Knitting Group for all the hard work in knitting
the egg warmers. Congratulation to Mary Bannon the winner of the Easter Egg Competition
and thank you to everyone who bought tickets and egg warmers over the past number
of week.
Click
here for some photos |
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| Balbriggan
Cancer Support Group presented with Cheque from Christmas Swim |
 The
Balbriggan Cancer Support Group Committee would like to thank all who took part
in the Christmas Day Swim. The Committee where presented with a cheque for €3,942.00
in the Central on Wednesday 14th April 2011
The
Balbriggan Cancer Support Group are very grateful to all who participated and
fundraised for this very worthy cause namely, Margaret Collins, Des Quilan, Sheena
O'Reilly, Paul Farrell, Laura Quinlan, Stephen Quinlan, Ed Branigan, Jason Quinlan,
Grainne Branigan, Paul Kenny, Karl Fisher, David Geary, Ant Daly, Ryan McMahon,
Stephen McLune, Matty Edwardson, Richie Collins, Snowy Collins, Boller Collins,
Hoe Guildea, Damion Finn, Christopher Finn, Garrety Cannon, Gina Cannon and Donal
Cannon Click
here to read more and see some photos |
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| Sonopress
Donate Medical Kit to O'Dwyers U10's |
 Sonopress
have kindly donated a Medical Kit to O'Dywers U10's Hurling and Football, Pictured
here are Ciara Nixon and Stephen Dowling accepting a medical kit from Linda Coughlan
of Sonopress.
The children and mentors would
like to express their thanks. Click
here to see a larger version of the photo |
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| Gary
Creighton Appointed as New Officer in Charge of The Balbriggan Unit of The Order
of Malta... |
 We
would like to congratulate Gary Creighton 2nd Lieutenant, on his recent appointment
as new Officer in Charge of The Balbriggan unit of the Order of Malta
Gary
is pictured here at his commissioning ceremony on the 20th of March 2011 with
Lieutenant Siobhan O'Reilly who Gary is taking over from after 10 years as officer
in charge. Would like to wish them all the best.
Click
here for a larger version of the photo |
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| Millfield
Shopping Centre, Balbriggan Official Opening... |
 The
Official opening took place today of Millfield, Balbriggan, the first major shopping
centre to open in Ireland in almost two years. Anchored by one of the largest
Tesco stores in Ireland, Millfield is an impressive €85 million development
which is providing a very welcome 450 jobs for the North Dublin area.
Read
more and view some photos here |
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| Wayne
Cawley, Balbriggan's IronMan Tells Us His Story... |
 Well
you may have seen the post on our homepage on 10th April telling you that Wayne
Cawley had done it AGAIN!
 Wayne
had completed his second IronMan Challenge...what an amazing achievement!
We
spoke Wayne to get an insight into what is involved in training for this mammoth
challenge and also to see what it was like to compete in IronMan Click
here to find out what Wayne told us... |
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| New
Tesco outlets to create 172 jobs in next few weeks |
TESCO
will create 172 jobs when it opens two new stores next week. The new outlet in
Balbriggan, Co Dublin, which opens on Monday, will employ 160 people, and more
than 100 of these positions will be full-time. Another 16 jobs will be
created when they open a Tesco Express outlet in Celbridge, Co Kildare, next week.
An additional 45 staff will be moving to the new Balbriggan store from the much
smaller Tesco store in the town which closed yesterday. The new store is
located in the Millfield Shopping Centre at the edge of the town and is the second
Tesco store to open this year, following the launch of a store in Dublin's Temple
Bar earlier this year. Enhance Tesco Ireland chief executive Tony Keohane insisted
the new store would significantly enhance and modernise the local retail infrastructure.
Local suppliers include fresh vegetable growers from Lusk, Cloghran and
Rush. The supermarket has also appointed a "community champion" for the town tasked
with working with local groups, schools, charities and clubs. Local councillor
Frank Snowe said the new jobs were very welcome and had been hugely sought after.
The council has eased parking restrictions and are also looking at other measures
to improve the town centre by encouraging more cafes, creating more pedestrianised
areas and opening up the harbour area to draw more visitors. |
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| Millfield
Shopping Centre Opening on Monday 11th April... |
 X
Factor star Mary Byrne will be in Balbriggan on Monday 11th April to perform the
official opening of Millfield Shopping Centre at 11am.
Retailers
at Millfield Shopping Centre include Carphone Warehouse, Eason, Cuddles Petshop,
Notionz Gift Shop, More 4 Less, Gleeson’s Butchers, Ladbrokes, Cheeky Monkey Bakery,
Smooch Ice Cream, Boston Belle Hair & Beauty, Cru Barbers, BB’s Coffee & Muffins,
Graham O’Sullivan and O’Briens Sandwich Bar with Gamestop, Holland & Barrett,
Jack Jones, Vero Moda & many more to follow over the coming weeks. Read
more here |
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| Irish
Vikings Sports Centre for Balbriggan Campaign... |
 Irish
Vikings is a young club promoting fun, accessibility and inclusiveness. Their
objective is to support integration in our community by offering a choice of in-door
and out-door sports activities.
The Irish
Vikings have a campaign running for a multi purpose centre which encompasses a
stage for performing arts, meeting rooms for community use, gymnasium, indoor
sports, track and field and athletics. Basically an accessible centre for ALL.
They hope that this facility will offer employment and encourage a sense of pride
and belonging in the community- thereby curbing anti social behavior. They
are looking for support from the local community for this campaign - for further
info
click here |
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| Walk
of Solidarity - A Community Working Together... |
 In
true community spirit thousands of people joined the families and friends of two
missing fishermen in a 'walk of solidarity' tonight.
It
was very moving to see such a turn out for an incredibly worthy cause. The walk
is hoping to raise fuel funds for about 30 local fishermen and boaters who have
been searching for Ronan Browne (28), from Skerries, and David Gilsenan (41),
from Rush who have been lost at sea off the coast of Skerries since Friday. Read
more here | Our
deepest sympathy to the families and friends of Ronan and David - thankfully found
and brought home to rest in peace. |
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| Update:
Search for Missing Fishermen Continues |
 The
small craft located earlier this morning 5 miles east south east of Clougherhead
is undertow. Once in port the coastguard will undertake a preliminary examination
The
RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat crews from Howth, Skerries and Clougherhead, along with
the Coastguard, are continuing their search in conjunction with c. 28 fishing
and pleasure craft assisting The search continues
with the Air Corps aircraft along with two helicopters are assisting with the
land and sea based search and rescue. Read
more here |
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| Paint
Scheme Launched for Balbriggan |
 Balbriggan
Town Council in association with the business community have come together to
work on a town improvement initiative for the Main Street in Balbriggan.
Balbriggan
Town Council was successful in getting Dulux Paints to come on board with the
initiative which involves creating a co-ordinated colour scheme for the town.
As part of the project implementation, Dulux have provided the services of their
colour consultant, Ms Cora Collins to work with the Town Council and the business
community on carefully selected colours which will enhance the properties along
the Main Street. Read the full story here |
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|
MARCH 20112011 |
| Balbriggan
Tesco on the Move... |
 Today
we bring you some photographs of the Tesco store in the centre of Balbriggan.
After 30 years of trading in the building off High St. the store is to close in
the next couple of weeks and move to the new Millfield Shopping Centre. Balbriggan.info
would like to wish everyone involved in the move to the new centre the very best
in the future.
Click
here for some photos |
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| Tree
Felling at Balbriggan Golf Club |
 There
was a little bit of comotion this morning when the traffic had to be stopped outside
the Golf Club for the felling of one of the large trees that overhung the main
road.
The police where on hand to stop the
traffic when the large branches came down and even though some of the drivers
where becoming impatient (plenty of beeping going on on the northbound lane!!!)
the tree came down in record time thanks to the tree surgeons on hand. Click
here for some photos |
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| New
Website Launch for St. Peter & Paul J.N. School |
 Today
saw the launch of the new St. Peter and Paul J.N.S. website. Vice principle Loretta
Lawless welcomed everyone to the event and congratulated teachers and the Parents
Association who were all involved in the work of setting up the site.
Teacher
Veronica Burns introduced the format of the site to the invited guests which covers
some history of the school up to the present day. Balbriggan.info would like to
wish the school the very best in the future with the site and also well done for
a lovely day.
Click
here to view the photos |
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Balbriggan
Man Jamie Hagan one of the new signings
Source: Breakingnews.ie |
Leinster
rugby have announced today the signings of Natal Sharks secondrow Steven Sykes,
Connacht tighthead prop Jamie Hagan and Canterbury Crusaders outhalf Matt Berquist.
Sykes has agreed to a three-year-deal and he will link up with the province
this summer while former Leinster academy member Hagan has also signed a three-year
deal. Kiwi playmaker Berquist has agreed a one-year deal with a further
option to extend. Interestingly, both Sykes and Berquist came up against
each other during last Sunday’s Super 15 clash in Twickenham which the Crusaders
won 44-28. Sykes, 26, has established himself as one of South Africa’s
premier lock forwards in recent years, but he has never been capped by the Springboks
meaning it is possible that he could qualify to play for Ireland on residency
grounds at the end of his three-year contract. Sykes started his career
with the Sharks in 2003, playing for the U20 side. Standing 1.98m tall and weighing
in the region of 115kgs, the giant forward quickly made a name for himself in
Durban and earned his Currie Cup and Super Rugby debuts in 2005 and 2006 respectively.
Former Leinster and Ireland Youths prop Hagan, 23, has played 23 times
for Connacht in all competitions so far this season and 46 (including 13 in the
Amlin Challenge Cup) games in total since his move from Leinster in 2009. A former
Leinster Academy graduate who was educated in Gormanston College, he weighs in
at 125kg and stands tall at 1.90m. “I am delighted to be heading back home
to Leinster and I am looking forward to the new challenges that I will face. Everyone
in Connacht (particularly Eric Elwood and Dan McFarland) has been very good to
me over the last few years and I'm looking forward to pushing on from my experience
in Galway to make an impact when I return to Leinster in the summer,” said the
Balbriggan native today. Read the full story here |
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Balbriggan
Entry in RTE's Storyland Competition
Author: Audrey
Campbell |
 Balbriggan
native Colin Campbell from Seabanks has an entry in RTE's Storyland competition.
Made by Colin with former schoolmate Lee Cronin from Skerries, Colin's film is
called The Masterplan. The
Masterplan is a humorous tale of young love with lots of quirks and craic.
Available
on RTE.ie Player, Storyland is the X Factor for new young short film makers in
Ireland. Viewers log on and view the first 5 minute instalment, then vote if they
want to see the next instalment. Each week the story with least votes is eliminated.
Previous winners The Hardy Bucks went on to make a series for RTE2, so winning
Storyland could be the start of something big for the lads. So
log onto RTE.ie Player and cast a vote for
The
Masterplan! Give Colin a vote by and there's a chance
the lads will get to make the TV show properly. Who knows, the next Irish short
film nominated for an Oscar could have a Balbriggan man in Hollywood! |
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| Balbriggan
Savoy Cinema - Down But Not Out... |
 Following
speculation that Balbriggan Savoy Cinema is to close we are happy to inform you
that the cinema is still open for business and will be for the foreseeable future.
Click
here for further info and to view the films on show at Balbriggan Savoy |
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| Good
News Regarding Parking in Balbriggan.. |
 Following
recent representations from Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce and subsequent discussions
with Balbriggan Town Council, the following amendments to current Pay and Display
Parking in Balbriggan will take effect from Saturday 12th March 2011.
Click
here to read the full story and to find
out how to avail of the free one hour parking on weekdays |
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| Shock
at Shooting of Two Swans on Wavin Lake |
 It
is with regret that we bring you some sad and disturbing news about the shooting
of two swans on the Wavin Lake. The swans which have been residents on the lake
for a long time where shot with air rifles and although one of the swans is still
alive he is in a bad way.
Swans are a protected
species and anyone with any information is asked to contact Balbriggan Garda Station
on 01 8020511 |
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M1
Toll to Drop from Midnight After Court Ruling
Source:
thejournal.ie |
| New Transport Minister
Leo Varadkar has welcomed a Commercial Court ruling today that M1 tolls will be
reduced from midnight tonight. According to the Commercial Court ruling today,
motorists have been overcharged on a section of the motorway since January. In
an action brought by the National Roads Authority (NRA), it was found that Celtic
Roads Group should have reduced the toll from €1.90 to €1.80 at the beginning
of the year on a stretch of road between Gormanston and Monasterboice. The NRA
claimed that motorists were being overcharged €26,000 a week. The toll is due
to fall at midnight tonight after Mr Justice Peter Kelly dismissed claims by Celtic
Roads Group that tolls could only rise upward. It is not yet known if the decision
will be appealed. Read the full story here |
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| New
Life for Bremore Port Development |
Drogheda's
port company has redrafted its plan to develop a €300 million deepwater harbour
in north Dublin. The semi-State Drogheda Port Company previously failed
to get approval from then Transport Minister Noel Dempsey when it first submitted
proposals for the port at Bremore, near Balbriggan, in 2009. The Sunday
Business Post reports that the project would require a Ministerial Order to sanction
the extension of Drogheda port's boundaries into Co Dublin under the Harbours
(Amendment) Act 2009. Previously any such extension would have been "legally problematic",
in the words of Attorney General Paul Gallagher. No planning application has yet
been made, but partners in the venture are reported to be making preparations.
A public consultation on the previous proposals was conducted in September 2009. |
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| Three's
Network Just Got Faster in Balbriggan |
|  Three's
coverage in Balbriggan has just got better with the addition of the latest high-speed
mast in the town. So now you can enjoy even faster speeds on either your modem
or Smartphone.
For a full range of Three's products call into Mobile Media
Store, Drogheda St, Balbriggan Tel: 01 8412233, www.facebook.com/mobilemedia
Also ask about our new "All You Can Eat Data" data plans, for Smartphones |
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Brides
Swap Vows and Names on their Big Day
Source: Independent.ie |
WHEN
two women walked up the aisle on their double wedding day, they exchanged more
than vows with their new husbands -- they swapped names as well. Oksana Stepanenko
married Ksenia Khlivna's brother, Anton, while Ksenia married Oksana's brother,
Denis. If that is not clear so far, as the knots were tied, Ms Stepanenko became
Mrs Khlivna and Ms Khlivna became Mrs Stepanenko. But the swapping didn't end
there for the group of Russian-speaking Ukrainians who were married in a double
ceremony in the Evangelical Church, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Oksana and Ksenia
are two forms of the same name -- the former the Ukrainian version, the latter
Russian. So Oksana left the church with both the same surname and Christian name
that her friend had had when she walked in, and vice versa. What makes this group
of four 20-somethings even more unusual is that they first met in Argentina. They
got to know each other as children in Buenos Aires, where their families moved
following the break-up of the Soviet Union, and still often speak to each other
in Spanish. In a strange coincidence, the two families learnt subsequently that
they had not only arrived in Argentina on the same day but had spent their first
night in the same accommodation. Denis kept in contact with Ksenia when the Stepanenkos
moved to Ireland, where they have lived ever since. He and Oksana sat their Leaving
Certificates here -- despite neither speaking English when they started school,
in Balbriggan, Dublin, as teenagers. Read
the full story here |
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Mobile
Firm Building for the Future With Buyout
Source:
Belfast Telegraph |
| A Co Tyrone building
firm operating in one of the industry's few growth areas has announced it paid
a substantial sum to complete the acquisition of a business in the Republic. Modular
construction firm McAvoy in Dungannon has fully bought out Maccom in Balbriggan,
Co Dublin, after it was formed from a joint venture between the two companies
in 1996. Customers of the joint venture in the Republic include its Department
of Education, Dublin Bus and Dublin Port. McAvoy said the Balbriggan business
will trade in the Republic under the McAvoy Think Smart: Build Smart identity.
It employs around 150 people in designing, manufacturing and installing mobile
and modular buildings for schools, colleges, hospitals, hotels and offices. Read
the full article here |
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February 2011 |
The
Balbriggan Public Realm Plan Steering Group held a public presentation in the
Town Hall on Wednesday 23rd February 2011. Over 100 people attended to hear the
consultants appointed by the steering group, LOCI outline draft strategies for
short, medium and long term projects to enhance the appearance of Balbriggan town
from improved streets to better public spaces. 
The
'final' committee meeting of the Balbriggan Branch of the Guide dogs took place
in the Harvest on Thursday 20th January 2011 and was attended by Tom & Breege
O'Neill and their guide dogs Sarge and Eunice!!. Tom and Breege have 'officially'
retired from Balbriggan Branch of Irish Guide Dogs after serving 25 years!!!
We
were out and about today and met up with local postman Pat O Neill who was only
too delighted to pose for balbriggan.info in his new uniform. 