Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed recently had a very informative and useful meeting with Irene Igiebor from Empower Fingal, the outcome of which was an application for a grant to purchase exercise equipment for our weekly classes. A big thanks to Irene and to Rafe Costigan, our FCC Community Officer, who put her in touch with us.
As reported last month, Men’s Shed members had a fascinating tour of Dublin Castle in November and we now have the photos to prove it. We also had our annual Christmas dinner and sing-song in Keeling’s in early December, an enjoyable night out for all with great food and even better music, appreciated even by Keeling’s other patrons.
Last month was a busy time for Gerry and the Plonkers, the Men’s Shed music group, with concerts in Donabate Parish Hall and in St. Michael’s in Ballymun for their Christmas party and fund-raiser. This was the Plonkers’ third Christmas gig for St Michael’s. As before, it was a wonderful event with a very appreciative audience, enjoyed by all, especially the band.
The Men’s Shed is preparing for the year ahead. Along with our regular weekly activities, plans are advancing for outings to Dublin Docklands and to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. So, if you, or someone near to you, would like to join us, please call our PRO, Jim, on 086-3694316.
Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed wishes a peaceful and healthy New Year to all in our community and a big thank you for all your support over the past year.
Donabate / Portrane Labour Party Local Area Representative Corina Johnston said; ”over the last few years Duncan Smith TD and I as well as other public representatives have been campaigning for a much needed Primary Care Centre in Donabate.
In April this year the HSE confirmed to us that following a tender process a preferred operator and site had been selected and approval to proceed was being sought. In July this year the HSE confirmed that approval to proceed would be sought from the outstanding stakeholders once all recommendations to proceed were received.
Duncan and I are appalled to have received an update from the HSE to our recent representations confirming that a U TURN has taken place and this much needed facility will NOT be going ahead “as value for money for public funds has not been demonstrated.”
”We believe the purpose of Primary Care Centres is to provide accessible, integrated Health and Social Care Services in the community with a focus on early intervention and community based treatment, to support vulnerable groups and reduce hospital pressure.
It is totally unacceptable that Donabate with the population to grow to 20,000 in the next few years will now not have a Primary Care Centre to provide much needed care services. The people of Donabate have been let down again and again with broken promises by this government on the provision of much needed facilities and basic infrastructure. While welcoming the provision of a Primary Care Centre in Swords this will not cater for the needs of the growing Donabate community. “
Johnston concluded; ”Duncan and I intend to raise this matter with the Minister for Health and arising from which we will be arranging an early public meeting in the New Year to discuss this and other infrastructural issues. It is important the people of Donabate make a stand on these issues.”
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.
2025 Stephen Scarff Perpetual Award Winner: Noel Heeney
We gather to honour a truly remarkable individual whose vision, compassion, and dedication have had a lasting impact on families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia in our community.
This person saw a need — families struggling, carers overwhelmed, and individuals living with memory loss who deserved connection, dignity, and a safe place to be understood. Rather than wait for someone else to act, he stepped forward, demonstrating remarkable initiative and leadership.
hrough his efforts, he has helped establish a day-care centre at the local rugby club, transforming a community space into a welcoming, supportive environment. Recognising that no one can do it alone, he has built a strong team of dedicated volunteers to support these initiatives and ensure their success. Together, they work tirelessly to bring respite and engagement to those who need it most.
He has also been a driving force behind fundraising and awareness campaigns, from organising community events to leading initiatives such as the Memory Walk — raising vital funds while bringing the community together in solidarity and hope.
Looking forward, he is determined to achieve a dedicated facility similar to the one in Drogheda, where he was instrumental in helping bring such a service to life. His vision is not just local, but national in scope: he serves on the national executive of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, helping to shape strategy, fundraising, and advocacy at the highest level.
His tireless work, combined with his ability to inspire others, has created a legacy of compassion, support, and hope.
And so, it is with great pride and admiration that we present this award to…Noel Heeney
Thank you for your vision, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to our community.
One of the main awards on the night was to remember joe Kelly of Balbriggan.info who sadly passed away earlier this year and whose generosity, dedication & community spirit made a lasting difference to Balbriggan. Joe Kelly had a familiar presence at local events or online. Balbriggan.info the social media page he created & maintained, he became an essential connector in our town — sharing events, local achievements, supporting good causes & keeping the community informed.
Joe gave his time freely. His efforts were driven by pride in Balbriggan & a genuine desire to help the town& the people he cared about. His contribution went far beyond the ordinary. He volunteered countless hours, supported community initiatives, & helped build a stronger sense of togetherness in the town. His legacy of selfless service is one we honour with deep respect.
To recognise individuals who embody this same commitment to community, we are proud to introduce the Joe Kelly Community Contribution Award. This award celebrates those who, like Joe, make Balbriggan a better, more connected & more vibrant place.
The inaugural recipient is someone whose impact on Balbriggan has been exceptional. Since establishing the Moriarty Group in 1987, he has created thriving local businesses that offer employment, services & opportunities to many families in the community. His commitment extends far beyond business leadership; throughout the years, he has consistently reinvested in the town, supporting sports clubs, schools, charities, youth programmes, local events & community development projects. His generosity, leadership & long-standing dedication have strengthened the social & cultural fabric of Balbriggan.
His contributions have been acknowledged through several notable honours, including the JC Savage Fingal Business Person of the Year and Kerry Person of the Year awards. These recognitions speak not only to his business achievements but also to the exceptional role he plays in supporting & uplifting our community.
In every respect, he reflects the values that this award represents — commitment to community, generosity of spirit & a vision for a better Balbriggan.
It is with great pride that the award for the inaugural Joe Kelly Community Contribution goes to Luke Moriarty.
Takemusu Aikido Society has been named a finalist in the Sports Awards category of the Balbriggan Town Awards 2025, organised by the Balbriggan Tourism Committee. For a dojo that emerged during the unsettled times of the COVID pandemic, this recognition is a major milestone, marking how far the club has come and how firmly it has found its place in local community life.
The club’s story in Balbriggan began in 2021, when head instructor Raman Bekarevich moved to Ireland after ten years of intensive training in Japan under direct students of the Aikido founder. Bringing this depth of experience with him, Raman began the first sessions at a time when indoor activities were still restricted. Training took place outdoors with wooden weapons, on the sandy shores of Balbriggan beach and on the football pitches beside the Martello Tower. The early-days group was small but full of determination, and those sessions laid the foundations for what would become a dedicated and steadily developing dojo.
As restrictions eased and classes moved indoors, more people discovered Aikido, drawn to its non-competitive nature and its focus on balance, timing and blending with an incoming attack rather than meeting force with force. From the beginning, the club aimed to offer more than martial arts training alone, and this resonated with people looking for connection as much as exercise.
Balbriggan is a town that has changed rapidly in recent years, with new communities arriving and local residents seeking activities that bring people together. Takemusu Aikido Society positioned itself as a place where adults of all backgrounds could meet, learn and take part in something meaningful. Aikido’s cooperative practice naturally breaks down barriers between ages, cultures and fitness levels, creating a sense of belonging that many participants highlight as one of its most valuable qualities.
This commitment to opening the doors as widely as possible is central to the club’s ethos and forms part of why it was nominated for the Town Awards. Over the past few years, Takemusu Aikido Society has partnered with Fingal County Council on a range of social inclusion programmes, including Women in Sports Week, Men’s Health Week and Her Outdoors Week. These initiatives introduced many newcomers to the art and supported adults who might otherwise feel hesitant to join a physical activity later in life.
This year, the club launched a new initiative aimed at those who have recently moved to Dublin, offering two months of free practice to help people settle, make connections and become part of a positive, supportive community. For many, the weekly training has become a welcome anchor in their new surroundings.
The technical level of the dojo continues to develop alongside its community work. Raman, now a 4th Dan instructor, maintains strong links with teachers in Japan and Europe. Assistant instructor Jan Tóth has just returned from a month of intensive training in Iwama, the birthplace of Aikido, building on a previous training period there two years ago. Experiences like these ensure that the teaching in Balbriggan remains firmly rooted in the traditions of the art while staying accessible to beginners.
Saturday practice has become a fixture in the local sporting calendar, known for an approach that balances structure with friendliness and welcomes people of any experience level. The club also runs classes in Dublin city centre, but its heart is firmly in Balbriggan, where it continues to support wellbeing, connection and community spirit.
Those who would like to try Aikido are welcome to join a free trial class at Balbriggan Clubs Community Centre every Saturday from 3 pm to 4.30 pm. New members who sign up this winter can also avail of a 50% discount for their first month of practice. Further information is available at www.aiki.ie or by contacting info@aiki.ie.
Annabel Russell, the creator behind the popular family resource website TotsSpots.com, was the celebrated winner of the Tech and Digital Award at the prestigious Women in Business Excellence Awards on Tuesday, November 25th. The ceremony, a beacon of female achievement, was held in the stunning setting of the Hotel Kilkenny.
Ms. Russell’s win in the Tech and Digital category, which was proudly sponsored by Arc Engineering, recognises her outstanding contribution to the digital landscape through TotsSpots.com. The platform serves as an essential online guide for parents, providing a central location for activities for children across Ireland.
“I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive this award,” said Annabel Russell. “This recognises the hard work that goes into not just building a technical platform, but one that genuinely helps Irish families navigate their day to day lives. Technology has the power to connect communities, and I’m delighted Tots Spots is playing its part. This award really means a great deal to me as I have been a champion of women in tech for my entire career.”
Annabel left a decade long corporate career a year ago to start TotsSpots.com, Ireland’s only dedicated platform for baby, toddler and kids groups. The site has helped over 25,000 parents locate local classes and all groups can sign up for free. The idea came about during maternity leave where Annabel found it difficult to find activities for her baby. Previously, Annabel had been working in tech for Penney’s, Aer Lingus and Kerry Group, where she has been a business analyst, change champion and strategist. She has also been an advocate for championing young women into tech by attending career fairs for secondary and college students, while mentoring them through their careers.
The Night of Celebration was hosted by the Irish Women in Business Network and the awards ceremony was impeccably MC’d by renowned style expert and broadcaster, Marietta Doran. Ms. Doran guided the evening’s proceedings, celebrating the resilience, innovation, and leadership of women across various Irish industries
The event at the Hotel Kilkenny brought together successful female entrepreneurs across industries from every corner of the country for a night of networking and recognition. The inaugural Irish Women in Network Awards Business Excellence Awards champion the role of female entrepreneurs in the national economy and inspire the next generation of female leaders.
Arc Engineering’s sponsorship of the Tech and Digital award underscores their commitment to supporting innovation and growth within the digital sector and recognising the crucial role of women in driving technological advancement in Ireland.
Fingal County Council has been re-certified as an Engineers Ireland CPD Accredited Employer for the maximum duration of three years. The award recognises Fingal’s ongoing commitment to continuous professional development systems and practices for its staff.
The Engineers Ireland CPD Accredited Employer Standard is a strategic framework which enables engineers and engineering employers raise competency levels and deliver tangible business benefits by investing in engineers through continuing professional development.
Welcoming the re-certification Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly said: “We are very proud to have been recognised as a CPD Accredited Employer for a further three years, the maximum duration that can be awarded. Fingal County Council is a vibrant and dynamic place to work, and we are committed to ensuring our employees have the tools they need to succeed. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all involved”.
Fingal County Council has over 70 engineers who work in a wide variety of services across the county. This includes staff operating in the areas of housing, transport, active travel, public infrastructure, water, and environment. Examples of major projects being carried out include Culture House, Swords, and the new Ongar to Barnhill Road.
Senior Engineer and chair of the CPD Committee at Fingal County Council, Colin Gallagher said: “The Fingal County Council CPD Committee provides clear and strong leadership promoting an inclusive CPD culture for the benefit and development of all our Engineers. The Committee has worked tirelessly to assist with the continuous skills development of Fingal’s Engineers, providing an excellent active and dynamic resource for innovatively improving the Engineering roles and areas of expertise that are managed and performed so well here in Fingal. The emphasis on Continuing Professional Development of Engineers ensures that the Council is future-proofed to cope with any challenging obstacles that may arise in the future”.
Swords Toastmasters is a club that helps people develop their public speaking, listening, and leadership skills, in a fun and supportive environment. Members join for a variety of reasons. Some, to progress their careers, to perform better at interviews, to practice for workplace presentations, or even for that all important wedding speech.
Eileen joined 8 years ago because of a profound and crippling fear of standing up in front of a group to speak.
Thanks to the guidance and support of her local Toastmasters Club, Eileen fulfilled a lifelong dream last month by delivering a speech titled ‘Living beyond your labels’ at TEDx Tralee.
Eileen was selected from thousands of applicants to become one of TEDx Tralee speakers, with her moving speech titled ‘Living beyond your labels’.
Eileen said “Standing on the red dot on the big stage at TEDx was a dream come true for me, something that would never have been possible without the support and encouragement I received from Swords Toastmasters.”
If you would like to see Eileen and her fellow Toastmasters in action, get in touch today, for an obligation-free visit. Perhaps you will be inspired to take the first step towards finding your own voice and changing your life!
Swords Toastmasters - Date: Every 2nd Monday. Location: Forrest Little Golf Club, Forrest Road, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 K825. Time: 8pm – 10pm
For more information, email swordstm@gmail.com or contact the membership officer on 086 8538048.
