What a busy 2024 it was for the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs! As we step into 2025, we look forward to more fundraising, merchandise stands and meeting new people. We would also like to welcome our newest volunteers to our Branch, Michael & Shivaun Bowden, David & Vanessa Parry, and Yuzhe Orben! Thank you 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, coming up in February there is the annual Balbriggan Feis in Naul GAA Club to look forward to. Thanks to Damien O’Shaughnessy and Ann McFadden the organizers. We will have more details on that in the next month so make sure to keep an eye on our social media. There are still ways to support our branch, you can donate any old coins or stamps to us by contacting us on the details below or you can drop them into the Library in Skerries. We can turn any foreign coins, sterling coins, old Irish coins or old postage stamps into cash for our branch! You can also tap to donate in one of our many locations which are Specsavers located in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan, Skinny Batch Bakery and Café in Lusk, Specsavers located in Ashbourne and also Specsavers located in GPO Arcade, Dublin.
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.
Fingal Libraries is delighted to announce that Balbriggan Library has been awarded a Library of Sanctuary by Places of Sanctuary Ireland, making Fingal the first local authority in Dublin to receive this award.
Following the submission of an extensive portfolio, Balbriggan Library was recognised for the consistent and innovative work that goes into making the library a champion for inclusion and welcome. The award is particularly special as it means it becomes the first public library in Dublin to receive such a status.
At the award ceremony Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. JK Onwumereh remarked: “The ethnically diverse population of Balbriggan makes the local Library an ideal candidate for such a prestigious award. They have created a community of welcome for all, whether they be migrants, Ukrainians coming into the county, or any type of marginalised groups living in the town”.
Dr. Veronica Crosbie from Places of Sanctuary Ireland presented the Library of Sanctuary award to the Deputy Mayor and the staff at Balbriggan Library at a celebration which took place in Ireland’s youngest town. Among the attendees were local agencies such as Cairde Balbriggan, Balbriggan Integration Forum, Le Cheile Day Hospital, Our Balbriggan, the Association of Ukrainians in Ireland, and the students of Bremore Educate Together Secondary School.
Dr. Veronica Crosbie commented: “Balbriggan Library demonstrates a commitment to supporting refugees and international protection applicants. We are delighted to include the library in our growing network of places working hard to combat racism and foster inclusive communities where everyone can flourish.”
Betty Boardman, County Librarian of Fingal Libraries added: “This award is testament to the hard work and enthusiasm displayed by the staff at Balbriggan Library. Fingal Libraries strive to strengthen and support communities by providing a dynamic, inclusive, and responsive library service. I would like to take this opportunity to personally congratulate them on this wonderful achievement.”
Places of Sanctuary Ireland complemented Balbriggan Library on their “brilliant and very attractive portfolio”.
Discover more about Places of Sanctuary Ireland: https://ireland.cityofsanctuary.org/about
On Saturday 16th of November, at the National Garda Youth Awards held at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, Balbriggan woman Aisha Alameen Betro was celebrated for her outstanding commitment to community safety.
Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris presented the prestigious National Garda Youth Award in the Community Safety category to Aisha for her incredible work in improving access to life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
A member of an Garda Síochána explained: “Aisha took it on herself to research the availability of defibrillators across Balbriggan where she lives. She quickly found that there were incredibly few defibrillators that were accessible 24/7, 365 days a year. To highlight the urgency of this issue, Aisha examined the prevalence of cardiac issues across Ireland, gathering data as she went. When she had all the information she needed, Aisha recruited four young women and established the Aisha AED Initiative. The AED Initiative issued informational leaflets on defibrillators, cardiac events and emergency procedure across North Dublin; helping to educate the public on where their nearest defibrillator is in the event of a crisis. Launching the AED Initiative’s first 24/7 365 defibrillator in Balbriggan Garda Station in June, with plans to place more accessible defibrillators in her town.”
Speaking of the award Aisha said: “I am absolutely delighted to have received this award from the Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris. This award recognises the work I have been doing in Balbriggan and encourages me to keep going to reach a future where no one passes away due to not being able to access an AED. Our vision is that Aisha AED Initiative will become a cornerstone for community safety, with AED/CPR education and training, and further AED installations in the future.”
Balbriggan Community Council stated: “Aisha Alameen Betro and the four young people Ciara Leonard, Alicia Rice, Mizna Shadid and Zainab Shahid have been an inspiration and have created a collaborative movement within Balbriggan aimed at providing lifesaving AEDs for the entire town and have advocated with community groups, individuals, stakeholders, political representatives, both locally and at Dail Éireann. We’re incredibly proud of Aisha and the other four young women and look forward to continuing to work with these truly exceptional young women” For further information, please contact Aisha AED Initiative on aishaaedinitiative@gmail.com or Balbriggan Community Council on balbriggancoco@gmail.com
Thrive Balbriggan hosted an Open Table discussion on Our Mental Health and the City on Monday October 14th, 2024, at the Open House Info Hub on Charlemont Walk in Dublin.
Open Table is a series of expert-led lunchtime conversations to encourage people to discuss different issues facing Dublin. These meetings are part of Open House Dublin, Ireland’s largest festival of architecture organised by the Irish Architecture Foundation (IAF) since 2005.
Thrive Balbriggan was invited to host one of the talks and was represented by Joe McKenna, Thrive Balbriggan Chairperson and Team Leader at Empower and Lisa Kelly, Thrive Balbriggan member and the HSE Health Promotion and Improvement Officer.
Alongside Thrive Balbriggan members, two students Paula and Amy from Balbriggan Community College contributed to the discussion on creating a mental health friendly community for all. Both students attended a focus group for young people organised by Thrive Balbriggan the previous week and expressed their interest in participating in today’s event.
The Open Table discussion was led by Caroline Brogan, Development Officer for Mental Health Ireland and Lead for Thrive Ireland who said: “We’re thrilled to be part of the ongoing conversation about mental health and the role our built environment plays, particularly in supporting the wellbeing of young people. It’s encouraging to see growing interest in recognising how the design of our towns can better address mental health needs. When we prioritise mental health in design, we help foster stronger, mentally healthier communities”.
During the conversation, participants explored the character and identity of Balbriggan and shared their insights on the urban planning and its impact on the mental health of the local community. The group also discussed ideas on how to create mental health friendly workplaces as well as habitual places.
Thrive is a community-led movement to create happier and healthier communities by conducting projects and events aiming at improving mental health and wellbeing. Thrive was introduced to Ireland in 2021 by Mental Health Ireland and currently operates in two locations in County Fingal in Balbriggan and Swords as well as in Connemara.
Thrive Balbriggan is an initiative of Mental Health Ireland and is supported by Fingal County Council. For further information please visit Thrive Ireland – Mental Health Ireland.
It’s been a busy month for the Balbriggan/North County Dublin branch of Guide Dogs.
On Tuesday, November 5th our branch held a coffee morning in Skinny Batch Bakery in Lusk, Co. Dublin. There was tea, coffee, sweet treats and even doggy gift bags! A great morning was had by all and a big thank you to anyone who came along and supported us, €535 raised. On Friday the 22nd and Saturday the 23rd November our merchandise stand was set up in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan where plenty of Christmas cards, car raffle tickets and calendars were sold. Again on Friday the 29th and Saturday the 30th November our merchandise stand was back, but this time in Supervalu, Balbriggan with more festive merchandise to get us into the Christmas spirit!
We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who supported us, donated and purchased any merchandise from us. Your support is greatly appreciated! In the lead up to Christmas, you can expect to see our branch out and about, so make sure to keep an eye on our social media accounts for more information. There will be Christmas cards and calendars in local shops in Balbriggan and Skerries. You can also reach out to us on our social media below if you would like to purchase these, along with car raffle tickets.
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.
This October, members of Takemusu Aikido Society returned from an inspiring two-week journey to Japan, where they trained intensively at the historic Iwama Dojo. This dojo, established by Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba, known as O-Sensei, holds a unique place in the world of Aikido, preserving traditional techniques and philosophies. For members of Takemusu Aikido Society, this pilgrimage has become an annual tradition — a chance to deepen their understanding of traditional Aikido under Japan’s most respected instructors and bring that experience back to Ireland.
Raman, the head instructor of the club, spent many years training in Japan before moving to Ireland. Now, he and his dedicated students travel to Iwama Dojo every year, spending a few weeks on each trip to fully immerse themselves in the rigorous and authentic training atmosphere. In Iwama, a serene village in the Japanese countryside, practitioners live the life of uchideshi (live-in students), which includes three daily Aikido sessions, caring for the Aiki Shrine, and helping with farm work around the dojo grounds. This intense routine enhanced by fierce training on the rock-hard mats deeply engages students in the traditional training methods offering a unique opportunity for authentic practice in the Aikido Founder’s Dojo.
Aikido in Iwama is led by Inagaki Sensei, one of O-Sensei’s disciples, who has passed down teachings directly from the founder’s time, maintaining an unbroken lineage. Inagaki Sensei began practising under O-Sensei at the age of 12 and has been practising Aikido for an astounding 66 years. His dedication and profound knowledge form the heart of Iwama Dojo, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for those who journey from around the world to study under his guidance. This year, Raman and the group met and trained with uchideshi from Spain, Australia, Japan, Argentina, Germany, Israel, and the United States. In Iwama, there is rarely a day when there isn’t a foreign uchideshi present, creating a rich environment for the exchange of skills and experiences.
This year, Raman was honoured to participate in the 39th Demonstrations of the Ibaraki Aikido Federation with the group representing the Founder’s Dojo. “These annual demonstrations showcase the skill, dedication, and spirit of Aikido practitioners from across the prefecture. It was a privilege for me to perform alongside Japan’s most skilled Aikido masters”, said Raman.
Inspired by their experience in Iwama, members of Takemusu Aikido Society bring this dedication and authenticity back to Dublin. The club holds classes every Sunday in Balbriggan and every Monday and Wednesday at Ringsend and Irishtown Community Centre in Dublin city centre. Open to all, Takemusu Aikido Society invites newcomers of all ages to discover the benefits of Aikido, including fitness, flexibility, self-discipline, and mindfulness.
If you’re curious about Aikido, visit Takemusu Aikido Society and experience the principles and techniques of Japan’s Iwama Dojo right here in Balbriggan. For more details, visit their website at www.aiki.ie.
After releasing his debut single “The Gift of Freedom” in May of earlier this year, Balbriggan local, Rían has established himself as a singer/ songwriter and recording artist. He featured in one of Ireland’s leading music magazines, Hot Press and was likened to Tracey Chapmans style with his debut track.
From a young age he has often taken the mic in local pubs to sing in front of an audience and has entered local talent shows and show cases. Having a massive vinyl collection, Rian has an interest in every genre from Country to Funk. He has also performed in Balbriggan’s first ever Pride Festival. After gaining attraction from radio nation-wide he was invited on to Dublin South FM, Lucan Fm and LMFM to promote his music.
Taking inspiration from giants like Anastacia, Aslan and Dolly Parton he pens songs from the heart of real situations that he has seen or lived through. This year his second single, a Christmas Charity single, “O’ Holy Night” was released on November 8th through online platforms. Already being booked on local radio stations he will begin to promote his holiday single early December. 2025 promises new material. Physical copies of the CD “O’ Holy Night” have been produced with a portion of the proceeds going to St. Francis Hospice Dublin. Pick up your copy in Golden Discs Drogheda or Golden Discs Swords now!
Independent Councillor Tony Murphy, a dedicated and experienced representative with over a decade of experience, has officially announced his candidacy for the newly created Dublin Fingal West constituency in the upcoming General Election. With a strong track record of leadership and community advocacy, Murphy is committed to building on his successful career as a Councillor to represent the needs of his constituency at national level.
Since his first election to Fingal County Council in 2014, Murphy has been a tireless advocate for the people of Fingal. He has consistently prioritised the community’s wellbeing, as evidenced by his impressive poll-topping results in the Balbriggan electoral area in both 2019 and 2024.
Having lived and worked in Balbriggan for over 40 years, Murphy has a profound understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing local communities in Rush Lusk Loughshinny Skerries Balrothery and the rural Fingal area. His work has particularly focused on enhancing local infrastructure, improving services, supporting businesses, and fostering an inclusive and vibrant environment. His pivotal role in securing funding and resources for major projects, notably the ambitious Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Plan, has been widely acknowledged. This program has had a transformative impact, establishing Balbriggan as one of the most desirable towns in Fingal to live, work, and raise a family.
Councillor Murphy stated: “I am proud to announce my candidacy for the Fingal Dublin West constituency in the upcoming General Election. My focus has always been on delivering real results for the community, and I believe my experience, dedication, and deep-rooted connections to the area will allow me to continue to make a positive impact. I look forward to the opportunity to represent the people of Fingal Dublin West on the national stage and work toward a brighter future for all residents.”
Following the recent constituency boundary changes, the former Dublin Fingal five-seater constituency was split into two three-seater constituencies – Fingal Dublin West and Fingal Dublin East. Fingal Dublin West covers a number of vibrant communities, including Balbriggan, Balrothery, Skerries, Loughshinny, Rush, Lusk, Ballyboughal, Kilsallaghan, St. Margaret’s, Coolquay, Oldtown, Garristown, and Naul.
With a strong track record of effective leadership, Tony Murphy will leverage his local experience and community-first approach at the national level, ensuring the voices of Dublin Fingal West residents are well-represented in Dáil Éireann.
On Wednesday 25th September a trip to the Guide Dog Centre in Cork was organised by Tom O’Neill who was joined by a group of local Balbriggan/North Co Dublin volunteers along with some of Tom’s and his son Eoin’s friends. The group travelled to Cork and back with Irish Rail who were most helpful to all but gave additional help to those on the trip who needed the extra support.
The headquarters pulled out all the stops! Chris Bennet of the fundraising department met the volunteers and friends off the bus when they arrived, he was accompanied by Tim O’Mahony, C.E.O and Mary Terry from the office staff. Sinead and her kitchen team laid on a lovely lunch and two local volunteers, Dermot and Tom broke the group up into two separate groups and showed everybody every part of the centre. It was a joy and also a lonesome moment to see Breege’s bus again.
The volunteers got to see the work involved for the students in training their new guide dogs as Sam the guide dog trainer demonstrated to the group. The feedback on the train home was that it was a wonderful trip. The staff were amazing and what a fantastic facility. A great day was had by all and we would like to thank the Headquarters for being so welcoming and showing us around.
As Christmas time approaches, you might want to keep a lookout for our merchandise stand over the next couple of weeks as we will be out and about. Keep an eye on our social media accounts for details on where we are going to be set up. We will have car raffle tickets available for €5, with the chance to win a Citroën C4 Plus Hybrid. Our 2025 calendars and Christmas cards will also be available.
Our Balbriggan/North County Dublin branch also held a coffee morning on 22nd of October in the Senior Citizen Hall in Balbriggan. Our raffle last year was a huge success at the event, and this year was no different! We gave away some fantastic spot prizes and a great morning was had by all.
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.
Four properties in Balbriggan were chose to feature in this year’s Irish Architecture Foundation’s Open House Dublin in October. Balbriggan was at the centre of the festival, with four architecturally acclaimed venues in the locality among those throwing open their doors to the public. Among them was The Lark, the country’s newest, most innovative, entertainment venue.
The Lark is this year’s winner of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Public Choice Award - voted the public’s favourite building.
The other featured venues in Balbriggan were Ardgillan Castle; High Street Balbriggan and Open Studios.
Meanwhile, UCD architecture students recently visited Balbriggan to view the progress and plans of the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme.
The transformational project is aimed at creating a high-quality public amenity and premier visitor destination to revitalise Ireland’s youngest town.
The €50million 2019-2030 Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme aims to create a more attractive, connected place where people want to live, work, visit and do business.
Key milestones have been reached as work continues at pace on the transformational €15million Balbriggan Quay Street and Harbour project.
The students also learned of works planned for the former RNLI Boathouse, the transformation of 6a-14 Bridge Street and a creative hub at 2-4 Dublin Street.
The ambitious vision contained in the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme was the result of an historic community engagement in 2019 which saw more than 25% of residents outline their preferences for the future of the town Dr David Begg, chair of the Our Balbriggan Leadership Group, said the visit was tangible evidence of the positive impacts of the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme.
“Its purpose was to bring to life the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme,” he said.
“There was both a visual learning experience with follow up presentations on how the ambitious socio-economic and architectural rejuvenation of Balbriggan has been shaped by the community and brought to life by Fingal County Council.”
