Latest news with #PaddyMcQuillan
Irish Independent
19-05-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Wheelie great! start to the school day for Bike Week at Scoil Aonghusa
The highlight of the day was an early morning group cycle to school, where students set off from Our Lady of Lourdes Car Park and pedalled their way to the school gates at Sunday's Gate, Moneymore. On arrival, the young cyclists were greeted with some well-earned goodies at the finish line, including bottles, armbands and saddle covers, to reward their efforts. Over the past year, the area around Scoil Aonghusa has undergone a significant transformation, involving a comprehensive package of safety and accessibility upgrades. Safety works included the removal of outdated road signage and pedestrian guardrails, the installation of a raised table and 'School Street' outside the school gates, and the addition of safe pedestrian crossing points. New warning signage, traffic-calming crossing zones, high-friction surfacing to improve traction, and demountable pencil bollards to help delineate pedestrian areas were also installed. As a result of these improvements, the area to the front of the school has been significantly transformed into a safer and more welcoming space for students, parents, and other road users. Local councillors praised the initiative for its impact. "It's great to see students from around the county out on their bikes, especially during Bike Week,' said Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathoirleach of Louth County Council. 'The Safe Routes to School Programme not only ensures safer passage for our students but also encourages a culture of walking and cycling and the work that has been carried out at Scoil Aonghusa in Drogheda, and St Louis Secondary School in Dundalk, is a positive step forward for the county in terms of promoting safety and sustainability." Cllr Paddy McQuillan, Mayor of Drogheda, added: "The Safe Routes to School Programme is a brilliant example of how small changes can make a big difference, and you can really see that at Scoil Aonghusa. 'The front of the school is not just safer, it's a livelier, more welcoming space. It used to be a bit of a bottleneck with cars everywhere, but now you've got kids walking and cycling to school, and it's great to see.' David Hanratty, Acting Director of Services, Louth County Council, said: 'The Safe Routes to School Programme is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration between local authorities, the National Transport Authority, An Taisce, and the Department of Transport, and, by working together, we're not only improving safety around schools but also supporting healthier, more active lifestyles.' The enhancements delivered at Scoil Aonghusa are among several projects underway across the county as part of Louth County Council's broader commitment to Active Travel and sustainable, child-friendly infrastructure.
Irish Independent
16-05-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Inspiring locals honoured at 2025 Drogheda Borough District Mayoral Awards
Following a nomination and consideration process by the elected members of Drogheda Borough District, nine awards were granted to inspirational persons or groups who achieved outstanding goals, demonstrated unwavering service to the community or represented the community nationally or internationally. The event, which was compered by Susan Deery, Administrative Officer, Louth County Council, opened with Cllr Paddy McQuillan, Mayor of Drogheda Borough District, commenting on the depth and variety of the nominations and praising each winner on how they individually, or collectively, enhanced the greater community. 'I am lucky enough to be the 424th mayor of Drogheda,' said Cllr McQuillan. 'There is an ancient, constant line dating back to the first mayor of Drogheda, Hugo Coyne, in 1285. Although these awards are not that ancient, they go back decades, and they will continue for decades to come. 'The Mayoral awards recognise a wide range of outstanding talents and contributions to our communities. The nominees are people that we recognise as leaders and change makers towards a vibrant, modern and confident society. 'Over the past year, I have witnessed first-hand the difference that the award winners, both as individuals and collectively, have made to Drogheda. They are the pride of our community, and also their families and friends, and as mayor and first citizen of Drogheda, I am honoured to be able to show our appreciation to them all.' Cllr McQuillan's words were echoed by Louth County Council Chief Executive, David Conway, who said: 'It's fantastic to see the wide array of award winners, ranging from heritage to services, to sport, to the local community. 'Many of the recipients represent a group or a team, and they all play a part in making County Louth a better place. One of Louth County Council's values is being citizen-centric, and each of the award winners lives by that value on a day-to-day basis.' Accompanied by music from the Cooney family, the nominees were called forward and presented with their certificates by Cllr Paddy McQuillan, Mayor of Drogheda Borough District. 2025 Drogheda Borough District Mayoral Award Winners • Friends of Bully's Acre: For their commitment to safeguarding Drogheda's heritage by transforming the old workshop graveyard beside Calvery Cemetery into the beautiful space it is today. • The frontline workers in the Emergency Department of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital: For their commitment to providing care, especially during the most challenging times. Their daily work embodies the values of dedication, professionalism and resilience. • Termonfeckin Celtic FC: For promoting inclusive values and the participation of females in soccer by establishing the Zara Murphy Academy, in honour of their former player who tragically passed away in the summer of 2024. • Coaching team and volunteers of Tredagh Boxing Club: For their services to boxing and the community in Termonfeckin and the wider Drogheda area, where the club continues to grow in stature as a club that produces and nurtures young talent. • Ryan Brennan: In recognition of his commitment and dedication to his hometown club, Drogheda United Football Club, for whom he has made over 200 appearances and lifted the FAI Cup as captain in 2024. • Grainne Berrill: For her commitment and dedication to the betterment of communities and individuals through her work as coordinator of the Drogheda Implementation Plan. • Paulette McArdle: In recognition of her key contribution to the Drogheda & District Support 4 Older People over the past decade. • Clogherhead Women's Shed: For fostering friendships, creativity and wellbeing in a welcoming community and providing a safe space for women in Clogherhead and surrounding districts. • Boyne Athletic Club: For being a cornerstone of youth development, inclusivity and producing several athletes who have proudly represented Drogheda, Louth and Ireland. Light refreshments were served after the event.
