Congratulations to St. Marys Baton Twirlers who won 1st place overall at the 2026 Baton Twirling Ireland ABTI National Championships! This achievement is a true team effort, showcasing the incredible partnership between our dedicated athletes and coaches. Together, we’ve reached new heights.
Here’s how our athletes got on over the weekend in their individual, pair, and team events:18 x 1st Places; 20 x 2nd Places ;17 x 3rd Places;10 x 4th Places; 5 x 5th Places; 1 x 6th Place.
A big thank you to the parents and families for your continued support of our club.
Some members also recently displayed at the BELIEVE Expo in Flemington Community Centre Balbriggan. The club made wonderful connections with other clubs and organisations and potential new members.
You can see more display from St. Mary’s Baton Twirlers at the Balscadden Tractor Run on 21st June.
Fingal Arts Office has officially launched the Creative Places Balbriggan Strategy 2026-2027, together with a brand new funding scheme for Balbriggan called “Making Waves”.
Creative Places Balbriggan is an Arts Council funded project which aims to make the arts more accessible within the community through increased engagement in socially engaged, community-led creative activities. The Making Waves seed funding scheme will support community groups to work with artists to start developing artistic skills and to participate in creative activities through collaboration.
The new strategy focuses on three main pillars of work in the Balbriggan community: Creative Youth, Creative Industry and Climate Action.
Speaking at the launch of the strategy at The Lark Concert Hall in Balbriggan, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Tom O’ Leary said “I am delighted to launch the Creative Places Balbriggan Strategy 2026-27. Balbriggan has a vibrant and burgeoning arts scene, as we can see from this magnificent venue, The Lark. With the two-year strategy in place, the stage is now set for more creative opportunities for the local community through the Making Waves Seed Funding scheme. I am particularly glad to see Creative Youth as the main pillar of the work going forward, given Balbriggan is the youngest large town in Ireland with approximately one third of its 24,0000 population under the age of 18. Many of these young people will have the opportunity to develop their creative skills and interests through the Creative Places Balbriggan Project.”
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly said “I greatly welcome the new Creative Places Balbriggan Strategy 2026-2027 and the Making Waves Seed Funding scheme. Together with the updated Arts Office plan, new public arts projects in Balbriggan, and the planned studio places at 2-4 Dublin Street. I look forward to seeing Balbriggan develop as a major hub for the arts and creativity in Fingal. The strategic pillars of Creative Youth and Creative Industry align with Our Balbriggan strategy pillars in community development and economic development. The creative focus on Climate Action as a pillar will also be greatly complimented by Balbriggan being the designated Decarbonising Zone in Fingal. The Making Waves Fund will seed fund opportunities within the community to get them creatively involved in these developments.”
The Making Waves Seed Funding Scheme 2026 will provide seed funding for creative programmes that involve community members working collaboratively with an artist to develop new ideas and creative activities. The fund is now open to individual artists, community groups, and community organisations based in Balbriggan. It is also open to any artists outside Balbriggan who are willing to work with a group from the Balbriggan community.
Funding of up to €5,000 per applicant is available. Application will be open from Tuesday, 5 May until Friday, 26 June.
Interested applicants can contact Creative Places Balbriggan coordinator Cormac McDonagh for further information on 087 7141691 or cormac.mcdonagh@fingal.ie
For more information, please read the funding guidelines and strategy here: https://www.fingal.ie/creative-places-balbriggan
The below might seem simple to you and me, but sometimes people forget their common courtesy. As Tom O’Neill recently continued the celebrations of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind turning 50, here are some top tips when meeting people who are blind/visually impaired:
Following planning approval at the Council meeting on 11 May 2026, Fingal County Council has confirmed that the long-awaited Balbriggan community swimming pool project is now progressing towards construction, marking a significant milestone for the town and the wider North Fingal region.
The proposed development consists of a single-storey public swimming pool facility featuring a 25-metre, six-lane pool and a spectator viewing gallery.
Supporting amenities will include village-style, group and accessible changing facilities, showers and toilets, a reception and waiting area, staff offices and welfare facilities, meeting rooms, storage areas, plant and chemical storage rooms, and buggy storage.
In line with Fingal County Council’s sustainability objectives, photovoltaic (PV) panels will be installed at roof level to support energy-efficient operation.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, welcomed the progress:
“This is a very positive development for Balbriggan, Skerries, Lusk and beyond. The pool will provide a high-quality, accessible public facility for families, schools and swimmers of all ages, and represents an important addition to the social and recreational infrastructure of the area. It’s a great day for North Fingal, with an estimated investment of more than €11 million.”
Director of Services, David Storey, emphasised the significance of the project:
“This is a major step forward for Balbriggan and the wider North Fingal area. For a long time, there has been a clear need for a high-quality public swimming facility, and we are now moving closer to delivering that reality. This project is about increasing access, supporting active lifestyles, and providing a vital community resource that will benefit people of all ages for generations to come. It is a strong example of how targeted investment can make a real and lasting difference in people’s daily lives.”
Balbriggan Summerfest recently held a charity football match in memory of Conor Allen and in aid of the Balbriggan Cancer Support Group. The fundraiser was organised on behalf of Conor’s family, who chose the charity in recognition of the vital support they provide to individuals and families in our community affected by cancer.
“Conor was a wonderful young man with a huge love for Balbriggan, for sport and especially for football. He brought people together with his energy, kindness and passion for the game. To honour his memory, we want to make this charity football match an annual event — a day that celebrates Conor’s life while giving back to a cause close to his family’s heart,” the organisers explained.
“We are so grateful for your support, whether through donating, or for coming along on the day. Together, we can remember Conor and make a real difference in our community”
It’s that time of year again when Guide Dog Day is fast approaching and this year is extra special as Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is turning 50! You can find our Branch in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan from 10am-6pm on Guide Dog Day Friday 22nd May and continuing the fundraising on May 23rd in SuperValu, Balbriggan from 10am – 6pm.
In March our branch took part in the Cork parade alongside many other branches and celebrated 50 years of Guide Dogs at the Cork St Patricks Day parade. The memory bus for Breege O’Neill, Guide Dog owner from Balbriggan, named Breege’s bus was the meeting point for the volunteers, and the banner was carried by Breege’s son, Eoin and her grandson Nathaniel. Her granddaughters Katie and Paige along with friend, Ann O’Dwyer from Waterford also took part in the parade while Tom O’Neill and Guide Dog Qeb sat on the viewing platform with CEO Tim O’Mahony! As always. Qeb stole the show on the stand giving the paw to all who wanted it! A wonderful day was had, and some lovely finger food and hot cups of tea were enjoyed after the festivities in the City Hall Cork.
Also in March, The Balbriggan/North County Dublin Perpetual Trophy was given out. To give a little bit of background, the award began due to one couple Ned and Máire Maguire from Dolahesy just outside of Balbriggan, the couple were for our branch the Facebook of the 80’s/90’s as they informed people as they went what a guide dog is and what a guide dog does, they took part in sponsored walks and went door to door fundraising for our branch, to name a few of their amazing contributions. When Ned passed away, our branch sourced a trophy to represent a litter of puppies with their mother and each year, the trophy is given to a person or business that has done something that stands out to our Branch during the year. The latest recipient of the Perpetual Trophy was Mark Hynes, owner of Java The Hut Coffee Roasters for their ongoing support of the Balbriggan/North County Dublin branch of Guide Dogs.
You can contact the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs by phone/text 0876489479, email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.
Looking to connect, learn something new, and meet like-minded women? Balbriggan Women’s Shed offers a warm, welcoming space for women aged 18+ to come together, build friendships, share skills, and support one another.
From creative workshops like pyrography, decoupage, painting, pottery, and upcycling, to relaxing and wellbeing activities such as yoga, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re trying something new or sharing what you love.
We meet at various times on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at Balbriggan FC. For our full monthly calendar of events, follow @balbrigganwomensshed on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information, call 087 444 8384 or email balbrigganwomensshed@gmail.com—new members are always welcome!
Flemington Community Centre was alive with energy on 11 April 2026, as dozens of sports clubs, cultural groups, community organisations, local enterprises, education providers, emergency services, and agency partners came together for BELIEVE Balbriggan, a major community expo celebrating the very best of the town’s talent, services, opportunities, and innovation - while strengthening connections, civic pride, and participation across the community.
Exhibitors presented inspiring examples of innovation, best practices, and community involvement, offering visitors a first hand look at the strengths and creativity within Balbriggan. A wide range of
interactive workshops added to the atmosphere, giving attendees the chance to engage, learn and experience all that is positive and dynamic about the town.
The event also promoted the ongoing Digital Detox initiative, encouraging attendees to intentionally reduce or switch off their electronic devices for one hour. By stepping away from phones, tablets, computers, and social media, participants were able to focus on well-being, reduce stress, and create more meaningful, real-world connections – benefits that can be measured and felt within the
community.
Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Gráinne Maguire, praised the event, saying: “There’s so many wonderful people and groups at work in Balbriggan and an expo like this is an excellent way for all to get out there and see them. We have some major talent in our local communities and I’m proud to point their way as they exhibit here today. Our many enterprises and community organisations are what bring real life to this town and I’m happy to see so much innovation and talent here in the one place.”
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, also reflected on the significance of the expo: “I’d like to congratulate community organisers for giving something for everyone here in Balbriggan. I’m pleased to see so many of different ages participating today. The Digital Detox is another fantastic initiative providing hands-on help for our very many community organisations. Encouraging people to step away from their devices and create meaningful, real-world connections is something I’m always happy to encourage.”
BELIEVE Balbriggan continues to grow as a long-term community movement, designed to strengthen neighbourhoods, support local partnerships, and ensure every resident has the chance to help shape Balbriggan’s future. Events like this year’s expo are an important step in building a more connected, engaged, and proud community.
For more information on the expo and to learn more about the Digital Detox initiative, visit: https://believebalbriggan.ie/
The north County Dublin town of Balbriggan is to take part in one of the world’s most prestigious sports events – the NFL Draft, this Saturday.
The Irish Institute of Music and Song (IIMS) in the town will play host to a player draft for Wisconsin team the Green Bay Packers, ensuring Balbriggan is seen around the world.
The NFL Draft is a three-day event held every April where all 32 US National Football League teams select new players from the college football ranks.
The Packers want to bring a distinctly Irish theme to one of American football’s biggest stages, highlighting the passion of their fans in Ireland and celebrating the country’s rich musical heritage.
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Gavin James will take part in the festivities, alongside young musicians from the Institute, playing the harp.
The Irish Institute of Music and Song is a non-profit organisation and premier music campus, featuring the 400-seat Lark Concert Hall and a dynamic academy dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Irish performers.
James, a patron of the Institute, is one of Ireland’s most recognised musical talents, with more than two billion Spotify streams. He has toured globally with artists including Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith.
The Dublin-based Draft moment is part of the Packers’ broader commitment to growing the game internationally through the NFL’s Global Markets Programme.
The Packers’ Irish connections will also be represented on-site at the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, where its nominee for International Fan of the Year, Stephen O’Brien, will announce an additional day three pick.
A native of Arklow, County Wicklow, O’Brien founded the UK and Ireland Packers fan club and has become a leading voice in the team’s international fan community.
In recognition of his impact, the Packers commissioned a large-scale mural in O’Brien’s home town.
The Packers are the league’s most successful franchise, with 13 championships, including four Super Bowls.
The NFL Draft is televised live across ABC, ESPN and the NFL Network in the US and Sky Sports and DAZN internationally.
The 2025 event was the second most-watched draft in history, averaging 7.5 million viewers across the three-day event.
Balbriggan is currently the site of a €60million economic, infrastructural and social plan, ‘Our Balbriggan’ led by Fingal County Council, launched - following a community engagement in which 25% of the town’s population took part - seven years ago.
According to Michael T Dawson, CEO of the Irish Institute of Music Song educational campus, hosting the event is an ‘incredible’ boost for Balbriggan.
“This is a wonderful honour for the Irish Institute of Music Song, The Lark Concert Hall and the town of Balbriggan,” he said.
“The IIMS Harp Ensemble, a group for young harpers aged 9-18, directed by Dr Helen Lawlor and Aoibheann Galvin, which often collaborates with international artists, proved the key factor in capturing the NFL Draft. Its appeal was instrumental in attracting the NFL Draft to Balbriggan,” he added.
The Balrothery Active Travel Plan was officially launched today by the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, and David Storey, Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel and Sport at Fingal County Council.
Shaped through local engagement with community businesses, visitors and elected members, the Plan addresses long standing concerns within the village, particularly around road safety, connectivity and accessibility. Issues highlighted include constrained and interrupted footpaths, accessibility at St. Oliver Plunkett’s National School, limited crossing facilities, visibility challenges at key junctions and restricted access to local businesses and Glebe Park from the R132. The Plan sets out a co-ordinated approach to resolving these challenges and strengthening how people move around Balrothery.
To respond to these challenges, the Plan proposes a series of targeted interventions that prioritise walking, wheeling and cycling, including the reallocation of road space to better support active travel, upgraded public spaces, improved bicycle parking and enhanced links to public transport.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: By focusing on safer streets, better connections and improved public spaces, this plan will make walking and cycling a more practical option for the Balrothery community. These changes will help people choose healthy, pleasant and sustainable travel options and move around the village more easily and with greater confidence.’’
David Storey, Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel and Sport at Fingal County Council, said: “This Plan reflects Fingal County Council’s commitment to delivering inclusive, well designed active travel infrastructure that is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. The proposals for Balrothery aim to reduce traffic dominance, improve safety and support more sustainable travel choices.”
The project team is now designing a trial of the first project to come from the Plan. The trial will be implemented in Balrothery later this year, and the public will again be invited to make submissions and suggestions on the trial via the Fingal Consultation Portal. Once implemented, these improvements will make everyday journeys in Balrothery safer and more convenient for everyone.
For more information and to read the final Plan, visit:
https://www.fingal.ie/activetravel/balrothery
