This winter has been one of the most active and rewarding periods in the history of Takemusu Aikido Society. From international training exchanges to national recognition and local volunteer awards, the Balbriggan-based club has shown that high-level martial arts and strong community roots can grow side by side.

In early January, three representatives of the club travelled to Sweden as part of the Erasmus+ Sports Staff Mobility programme for the professional development of Irish takemusu aikido coaches. Takemusu Aikido Society head instructor Raman Bekarevich, assistant instructor Jan Toth and volunteer Áine Winterbottom visited the Gothenburg Aikido Club, led by Ulf Evenås, 8th Dan Aikikai, widely respected as one of the most technically accomplished Aikido teachers in the world. During the visit, they observed how the complete aikido curriculum is structured and delivered, from beginners’ classes to advanced practice. This included weapons training with sword and staff, children’s sessions, grading preparation and the dojo culture that supports steady, long-term development.

What stood out most was the clarity of teaching progression. Advanced techniques were not treated as something separate or reserved for a select few. Instead, they were built carefully from foundations already in place. Each new movement emerged as a small, logical extension of what students had just practised. By introducing only one new element at a time, instructors preserved precision and understanding while enabling the entire group to advance together. This thoughtful and inclusive method of teaching has already begun influencing how classes are structured back in Balbriggan.

The impact became visible later that same month at the Irish Martial Arts Commission Aikido Friendship Seminar on 24–25 January in Dublin city centre. Six instructors from six dojo each taught one class in a collaborative national format. Raman led the opening session for around 20 participants, applying the same progressive structure observed in Sweden. Techniques unfolded in clear stages, with complexity developing naturally from strong fundamentals. Practitioners of different levels were able to train together confidently, and the positive response demonstrated how international learning can immediately strengthen practice at home.

That weekend also brought a major milestone. On 24 January, at the first-ever IMAC Award Night held at the Lucan Spa Hotel, Raman Bekarevich received the Outstanding Contribution to Martial Arts 2025 award. The honour recognised both technical achievement and meaningful social impact. The award acknowledged significant milestones, including promotion to 4th Dan and mentoring his first student to black belt. At the same time, it highlighted inclusive initiatives such as free classes during Women in Sport Week and the Autumn Free Aikido Programme for Young Adults, helping to remove financial and social barriers to participation. Through public demonstrations, local engagement and ongoing outreach, aikido continues to reach audiences far beyond the dojo. Above all, the recognition reflected sustained mentorship and the supportive training environment that has allowed the club and its members to grow steadily.

Further recognition followed when Fingal County Council presented Raman with a Fingal Sports Volunteer Award. Presented by the Mayor of Fingal, Councillor Tom O’Leary, the award specifically recognised volunteer work in Balbriggan. Despite living in South Dublin, Raman makes a long weekly round trip at his own expense to keep the Balbriggan dojo running. He lays out the mats before class, teaches without payment and stays afterwards to support students who have no alternative place to train. This dedication ensures that Balbriggan continues to have a stable, welcoming and genuinely community-centred space for martial arts practice.

The series of winter events concluded with an international seminar hosted by Takemusu Aikido Society. Led by the instructor of Gothenburg Aikido Club, Jöran Fagerlund, the event welcomed visitors from Italy, the UK and Limerick for a weekend of training. Over the weekend, training explored the connection between different aspects of practice, including the use of traditional wooden weapons and unarmed techniques and how they complement one another. Despite heavy rain and local flooding, the weekend came together smoothly and the atmosphere on the mat was excellent. The determination of those who travelled under challenging conditions spoke volumes about the strong sense of community at the heart of aikido.

Takemusu Aikido Society continues its regular classes in Balbriggan and welcomes adults and teenagers who would like to experience a structured, supportive and internationally connected martial art close to home.

A group of Really Cool Adventurers from Balbriggan have recently returned home after taking part in an exciting Erasmus+ youth mobility in Germany as part of the international project Play Compete Connect, co-funded by the European Union.

The exchange took place in December, in Germany, in the town of Esslingen, hosted by Käthe Kollwitz Schule secondary school, and brought together youth groups from several European countries. The project used sport, games and teamwork as a powerful way to promote inclusion, healthy lifestyles and intercultural understanding.

Throughout the week, the Balbriggan participants took part in a packed programme of workshops, outdoor activities and team challenges. The focus was on learning through play — exploring how sport can help young people build confidence, develop communication skills and form friendships across borders.

A special highlight was the opportunity to learn traditional games and sports from partner countries. The German team introduced participants to Kegeln (a traditional form of bowling) as well as fun ice curling-style team challenges. The Serbian group presented rukomet (handball), giving everyone the chance to try a fast-paced and energetic sport. Meanwhile, the Turkish participants shared cultural sports traditions including Müsabakalı güreşi and aba güreşi, showcasing the importance of heritage and respect in Turkish wrestling.

In return, the Irish group proudly represented Balbriggan and Ireland by presenting Gaelic football and hurling, giving new friends from across Europe a taste of our national sports and culture.

Leader Killian Burke praised the experience, saying:
“It was an incredible project. The young people gained so much through sport, teamwork and meeting others from different cultures.”
Participants also spoke warmly about the impact of the mobility.

Orla O’Halloran said:
“The project met my expectations a thousand times over. I learned so much and made amazing friends.”
Another participant, Julia Iwanicka, highlighted the power of connection through play:
“We don’t need to use the same language to understand each other and play the game together.”
Beyond the workshops, the group also enjoyed discovering German culture, visiting the famous Esslingen Christmas Market, and exploring the impressive Mercedes-Benz Museum, making the experience both educational and memorable.

Organisers from Really Cool Adventure, based in Balbriggan, say they are now looking forward to continuing dissemination activities locally.

If your school or youth group would like our volunteers to deliver our free Erasmus+ presentation or sports games workshop, please get in touch with us at @ReallyCoolAdventure.

The Balbriggan annual Feis took place on Saturday the 7th and Sunday 8th February in the Naul GAA club. We want to say a big thank you to Damien O’Shaughnessy and Ann McFadden for organizing it plus the great team of helpers they have with them.

Tom O’Neill with guide dog Qeb and Ann Mulligan with puppy in training Lulu of our Balbriggan Branch also made an appearance at the Feis to say the most important words of thanks to all who helped and participated.

Some bright sunny news also, Martin McNamara very kindly donated €1,000 from the sales of his calendars to Balbriggan / North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. On Friday 16th January, Tom O’Neill with his Guide Dog Qeb and Anne Mulligan with Puppy in Training Lulu met with Martin in Molly’s Cafe on Quay St Balbriggan for the presentation. Thank you for your support Martin.
We also want to give huge congratulations to Paudie Dwan from County Tipperary, the lucky winner of our Car Raffle! The car was a brand-new 2026

Ford Puma - What an incredible prize! The winning ticket was drawn by Cork Camogie’s Amy O’Connor, along with Maurice O’Carroll from Ford Ireland.

Our branch will soon have our holiday raffle tickets and towards the end of the year we will have another car raffle.

Finally, it might not be January anymore but if you still have resolutions to volunteer or help out locally, why not contact your local branch of Balbriggan Guide Dogs to volunteer and or become part of our counter box team which is very rewarding as you are always bringing in money to the branch. If you want more information, please contact us on the information below. You can contact Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs by phone/text 0857663107, email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.

BELIEVE Balbriggan - Belonging, Empowerment, Living, Involvement, Enterprise, Volunteering & Engagement has launched an exciting new community initiative, the BELIEVE Balbriggan Digital Detox, launched on Safer Internet Day February 10th, at Balbriggan Library.

The initiative invites the entire community to take small, intentional steps toward healthier digital routines and stronger offline connection.

The event was opened by the Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Gráinne Maguire, who highlighted the importance of balanced digital engagement, stating:

“Social media is here to stay and it is important that we have the conversation regarding its safe use, and acknowledge its important role in keeping the community connected.”

As part of the launch, attendees participated in a panel discussion titled “People, Place and Purpose: A Community Conversation on Digital Wellbeing.” The discussion explored practical approaches to managing screen time, online resilience, community connection, and the impact of digital habits on everyday life. Speakers emphasised the importance of supporting families, young people, and individuals in navigating digital spaces safely and mindfully.

The BELEIVE Balbriggan Digital Detox now invites residents, families, schools, local groups, and workplaces across the town to join the movement by logging an hour activity to do a physical activity, read a book, learn something new or reconnecting with their surroundings, and strengthening community ties, even volunteering.

This leading edge initiative is guided by the BELIEVE Balbriggan Steering Committee:
• Aisha Alameen Betro, Project Lead, Aisha AED Initiative (Subcommittee of Balbriggan Community Council)
• Mary Osakwe, Representative, Balbriggan Residents Association Network
• Janette Scott, Community Officer, Fingal County Council
• Anne Marie Brady, Balbriggan Community Council

The Digital Detox also builds anticipation for the upcoming BELEIVE Balbriggan Expo, taking place on 11 April 2026 at the Flemington Community Centre. The Expo will bring together local services, community organisations, stake holders, businesses, and residents to celebrate participation, connection, creativity, and the future of Balbriggan, something for everyone.

Further updates on the BELEIVE Balbriggan Digital Detox and the April Expo are available at www.believebalbriggan.ie.

Stained glass highlights in Balbriggan and other locations in north County Dublin’ from David Caron, Wednesday March 25th 8pm Bracken Court Hotel

Welcome to a new year with Balbriggan & District Historical Society and we are busy finalising an exciting programme for 2026 for you. Our regular talks will commence on March 25th with a presentation ‘Stained glass highlights in Balbriggan and other locations in north County Dublin’ from David Caron author of Dubin Stained Glass which I am sure will be of huge interest given the excellent examples in our own Balbriggan churches. You may have seen and admired these beautiful windows in St Peter and Paul’s and St George’s Church and wanted to learn more about them. This presentation will give a wonderful insight to them and other examples in the area. Adm €5 Members free

David Caron was born in Dublin and studied Visual Communication at the National College of Art and Design, to which department he returned in due course as lecturer and was subsequently appointed Head of Department. His PhD research at Trinity College Dublin focused on Michael Healy and the stained glass artists of An Túr Gloine, the Tower of Glass. He was one of the three original compilers of the Gazetteer of Irish stained glass in 1988, and was editor and principal author of the revised and expanded edition in 2021. His book, Michael Healy, 1873-1941: An Túr Gloine’s stained glass pioneer, was published by Four Courts Press in 2023. His most recent book, just published, also by Four Courts Press, is Dublin’s Stained Glass – a guide to the finest twentieth-century windows. David regularly contributes articles on stained glass to the Irish Arts Review. He is currently researching a book on the best of Ulster’s twentieth-century stained glass.

We will let you know more information on this and full details of our other talks and events later, if you have any queries email balbrigganhistsoc@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.

Happy New Year from The Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs, if some of your new year’s resolution include a clear out and you find something you no longer want, that could make a spot prize or help to fill a hamper, why not pass it on to our Branch of Guide Dogs who can use it to go towards raising funds for our branch. You can get in touch on the details below.

If you have any used postage stamps or coins which are no longer in circulation, please give them to us. We will turn them into Euros and lodge them to the guide dog’s account.’ We receive coins from all over the world and old postage stamps. In our guide dog boxes and enormous collection dogs we find coins from all over the world and from Europe that are no longer legal currency since the Euro came into place. We get paper notes of all sorts of denominations, coins and used stamps from our branch volunteers and friends, keep them coming they make good money for us. Remember also we always need new volunteers so give us a shout if you want to chat to us about it. Nothing ventured nothing gained.

We also had a busy December in the lead up to Christmas, Jim and Brendan in Cuddles Pet Store, Millfield held a hamper raffle on 17th December where Volunteer and Puppy Raiser Anne Mulligan attended with Guide Dog Pup in training Lulu, Assistance dog Gigi and ambassador dog Adel who got the royal ‘treat’-ment from Brendan and Jim. Tom and his Guide Dog Qeb, along with Anne and Lulu attended an after-school club in the Cottage Community Centre in Lusk to talk about puppies in training and guide dogs to the children who were big fans of Qeb and Lulu. A Christmas art exhibition also took place in Millfield Shopping Centre from 21 December to 23 December where plenty of great works and a bunch of new art was on show. The exhibition supports Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind annually with a donation for which we are very grateful. We want to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout 2025, and we look forward to seeing you all in 2026.

You can contact Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs by phone/text 0857663107, email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.

Work will continue at pace on delivering the major economic, infrastructural and social elements of the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme in 2026, it has been confirmed, according to Dr David Begg, Chairperson of the Our Balbriggan Leadership Group, 2025 was one of momentous progress for the €54-57million plan.

The Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme 2019-2030, is one of the biggest ongoing urban renewal projects in the country. It is led by Fingal County Council’s Economic, Enterprise, Tourism and Cultural Development Department.

According to Dr Begg, the plan’s locally-based leadership group will oversee see major change in the town across the next four years.

“The leadership group has adopted plans for its various pillar groups under the headings: Economic Development; Community Development; Education, Skills and Training, and Sustainability, Climate Action and Biodiversity,” he said.

“A key objective includes leveraging investment in the regeneration of Balbriggan by attracting new business, jobs and visitors. Strong collaborative networks have been established between the community and public and private sectors. The continued operation and strengthening of these networks will enable an integrated and flexible approach to the resourcing and delivery of plans.

“These include a range of objectives and actions which will make a demonstrable, positive impact across a range of economic, social and environmental platforms,” he explained.

The Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme is set to transform the town through public investment and has seen work commence and continue on a number of other key projects.

“Six years on from the launch of the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme 2019-2030, the transformation of Ireland’s youngest large town really is now taking shape,” said Dr Begg.

In 2025, plans for a €3.3m creative hub moved to tender stage. The development will deliver a dedicated space for arts, culture and innovation.

Fingal County Council has approved plans for the works at 2-4 Dublin Street, which are expected to be complete, pending the award of a tender, by the end of 2027.

Ensuring Balbriggan becomes a nationally renowned destination for arts and culture is a key part of the Our Balbriggan rejuvenation programme.

Fingal County Council has proposed a mixed-use commercial, community and residential development, with the River Bracken at its heart.

The plan is to link Millpond Park to a new park entrance at 14 Bridge Street to facilitate a pedestrian and cyclist route down to the transformed Quay Street and Harbour area.

It is estimated work will begin at the site in 2027.

The buildings are within an architectural conservation area. The front façade will be preserved.

The restoration and adaptation of the Historic Bath House and Boat House by the Martello Tower will continue to progress in 2026.

It is intended to proceed to a Part 8 planning public consultation process in the second half of 2026, with completion in 2027.

Long-term, plans for a reinvigorated Railway Street will result in better connectivity between the beach and Quay Street.

Census figures report the population of Balbriggan increased by 215% between 1991 and 2002 to 27,300. Along with being the youngest large town in Ireland, 30% of its population were born outside the country.

“Building on its rich history, and its diverse and growing talent base, Balbriggan is an ambitious community which aims to be inclusive,” Dr Begg said.

“Community prosperity will come from harnessing social, economic and physical advantages.”

Lands at Stephenstown have been earmarked for industry, and further developments are planned for Bremore Castle and Regional Park which will enhance the proposed Fingal Coastal Way.

As Balbriggan steps confidently into a new year, one local organisation is celebrating fresh beginnings, new skills, and international collaboration. Really Cool Afterschool & Montessori School, which operates three childcare facilities in Balbriggan, employs 40 staff members and provides care for 200 children from 27 nationalities every year, continues to shine on the European stage thanks to its recently awarded Erasmus+ grant enabling staff training abroad.

The project, funded under the Erasmus+ Programme and supported by Ireland’s National Agency, Léargas, is titled “One Planet, Many Cultures: Eco-Learning in a Diverse Crèche”. Its focus is on strengthening staff expertise in eco-education, inclusion, and innovative early-years approaches—core values in the organisation’s work with Balbriggan’s multicultural community.

Although the project officially runs from July 2025 to June 2026, the team has already made impressive progress. Six teachers have completed mobility trainings in Portugal and Romania, returning home energised with new teaching strategies and perspectives on early-years education. Their learning is already being embedded into daily practice across all three centres, enhancing experiences for children aged 1 to 12.

The journey continues in 2026 with even more energy. At least six additional educators are preparing to travel to different corners of Europe in the coming months. The next destination is Spain, where a group of teachers will participate in Erasmus training on using Art to promote inclusion —an inspiring way to begin the year.

Co-Owner Marzena Stronska expressed pride in their team’s commitment:
“Our staff are passionate about giving every child the best start in life. Through Erasmus+, we learn from excellent educators across Europe and bring that knowledge straight back to Balbriggan. Our families benefit, our staff grow, and our community becomes stronger.”

As the new year unfolds, the organisation is focused on innovation, professional growth, and continuing to build bridges across Europe. January, for Really Cool Afterschool team, is time for fresh goals, new partnerships, and renewed dedication to high-quality, inclusive childcare.

Wishing all families, staff, and partners a bright and inspiring year ahead.

Balbriggan Rugby Club held their Centenary Gala Ball in the Bracken Court Hotel on Saturday 29th November. On 10th November 1925 the Club along with Navan RFC, was officially affiliated to the Leinster Branch of the IRFU.

The event was attended by 160 Club Members and guests. President Kevin Colman welcomed special guests, Dr John O’Driscoll, President of the IRFU and Moira Flahive, President of the Leinster Branch. In his speech John had to admit to being a Skerries man before moving as a child to the UK. Also in attendance was former Irish International, Leinster Manager and Skerries man, Jim Glennon, and current international Linda Djougang. Club Treasurer, Robert Cashell did a Q&A with Jim and Jim regaled those present with stories of his father and uncles who had played for Balbriggan many years ago. Past President Ivan McFadden got to question Linda on her fascinating story as to how a girl from Lusk got into the world of Women’s Rugby and now is one of the first names on the Irish team sheet.

Other notable attendees included former coach and proprietor of John D’s – Tom Young, and Dale McAuley who had travelled all the way from Australia to join in the celebrations. Dale’s work twenty years ago laid the foundations of the youth systems in the Club which still stand to this day.

As the Club starts into its second century there is plenty of activity going on in the Club. Presently the Club fields four adult teams, two men and two ladies as well as youth and mini teams for both boys and girls from 5 to 18. The Club also had a disability Tag team, The Stingers who train every second Sunday morning.

The teams train at the Club grounds in Balrothery and there is something on every night of the week. The mini section 5-12 year olds train on a Thursday evening 6-7pm. New members are always welcome.
If you would like any further information on the Club give Director of Rugby, Jeff Neville a call on 085 724 5733

What a busy 2025 it was for the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs! As we step into 2026, we look forward to more fundraising, merchandise stands and meeting new people. Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout the year and continue to do so and a massive thank you to our volunteers for dedicating your time to the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs! If it is a new year’s resolution of yours to volunteer, why not join our Branch and make a change? You can contact us on the details below and we would be delighted to have you!

While things might be quiet at the moment, we were certainly busy over November with our merchandise stands in SuperValu, Balbriggan on both the 14th and 15th November where we raised a fantastic total of €1,171.43 over the weekend and in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan on both the 28th and 29th November where raffle tickets and Christmas cards were a big hit and we raised a brilliant total of €1,851.08 over the weekend. We hope you had a chance to get your hands on the special edition 2026 Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind calendar celebrating 50 years of Guide Dogs! It’s not too late to get one, you can find them in Balbriggan in Baxter’s Butchers, Donal Hayes Chiropodist, Java The Hut, Imeldas Hairdressers on Bridge Street and Cuddles Pet Store, in Skerries you can find them in Skerries Hardware, McMeels Pharmacy, Stacks Pharmacy, Oakes Pharmacy and Shenick Vets and in Corduff, Swords and Rush, they are located in the Irish Rosettes Corduff, Village Vets Lissenhall Swords and Stitches and Alterations in Rush.

Now is also a good time for us to collect your old stamps or coins from anywhere in the world and turn them into cash for our branch. You can contact us if you have any old/used postage stamps and old notes or coins.

Finally, we would like to say massive thank you to everyone who supported our Branch this year and we wish you the happiest Christmas and new year! We hope to see some familiar faces when we get back out there in the coming weeks!

You can contact Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs by phone/text 0857663107, email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.