Congratulations to Thrive Balbriggan which has won the 2025 the All-Ireland Community and Council Awards in the Best Mental Health Initiative at the awards ceremony which took place on Saturday 22nd February in Cork.

The Balbriggan Great Places & Spaces Wellbeing Map is an intergenerational project that highlights locations in Balbriggan that promote mental health and well-being. The map was created from survey responses gathered from local Transition Year students and the Balbriggan community, identifying places where they feel relaxed, happy, energised, or calm.

Coordinated by Thrive Balbriggan, the map was created by local artist Lauren Fernandes and designed by Áine O’Beirne, a local graphic designer and Vice Chairperson of Thrive Balbriggan. The project was inspired by the Wexford Great Places and Spaces Wellbeing Map, which was administered and coordinated by the Wexford Mental Health Association.

Commenting on the win, the Great Places and Spaces Project Lead, Thrive representative Séamus Quigley said: “This award is not only a recognition of Thrive Balbriggan’s presence, but also a tribute to the dedication of its members and volunteers who have worked hard to make a positive impact on the wellbeing of the Balbriggan community. The Great Places & Spaces initiative was a unique concept for the area, and as demonstrated by its success at the All Ireland Community and Council Awards, it was a project that made a real difference—one we are eager to build on. I want to commend the team for their tireless efforts, creativity, and initiative in transforming this map from an idea into an attractive, functional resource that will benefit the community. This project was created for the community, by the community, with invaluable contributions from local residents and produced with the support of Mental Health Ireland, Our Balbriggan, Empower and 123 Print Balbriggan. We are thankful for their willingness to share their insights about the different places and spaces in Balbriggan, and we also appreciate the support from everyone involved”.

Thrive is a community-led movement aimed at creating happier and healthier communities by conducting activities promoting mental health and well-being. Thrive was introduced to Ireland in 2021 by Mental Health Ireland and currently operates in two locations in County Fingal in Balbriggan and Swords.
Thrive Balbriggan is an initiative of Mental Health Ireland and is supported by Fingal County Council. For further information please contact thrivebalbriggan@mentalhealthireland.ie or visit Thrive Ireland – Mental Health Ireland

In February 2025, volunteers Tom O’Neill, his guide dog Qeb, puppy walker Anne Mulligan along with Pat Harney of the Portmarnock/Malahide Branch of Guide Dogs, his Ambassador dog Belle and Jennifer Hurley who is the Regional Development Officer for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind all attended Skerries Library to promote awareness of guide dog puppy training and are looking for volunteers for the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs.

Tom has had guide dogs for 40 years and got his first one when he was 28 years old. Qeb is his seventh guide dog. Anne has been puppy walking for over 13 years and just got her 14th puppy, Lulu, a few weeks ago. When Tom was giving his talk at the library, Qeb was focussed on Anne and Tom explained that as well as her puppy walking, Anne also takes Qeb for runs in Argillan and he adores her. Qeb was obviously hoping Anne would bring him for a run!

Tom explained how Qeb was a very special dog because of the dual ownership and that his late wife Breege had him first and Tom had him after she passed away. Qeb is unique and of all the guide dogs in 40 years, Tom said this kind of dual ownership had never been done before.

Tom and Anne explained how all guide dogs begin their training with puppy walkers for the first year and the importance to have a deep love for dogs and a lot of patience. It is clear from Qeb’s reaction to Anne, how good she is with dogs. Tom is looking for volunteers for the Branch. The next fundraiser the branch is doing is Sunday 13th of April a craft fare in Mrs O’s upstairs in the Central Pub Balbriggan from 12 o’clock to 4 pm where our branch will be selling tickets for a holiday raffle at €5 each. If volunteering is something you would like to do, you can contact the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs by phone/text 0857663107, email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.

In June 2025, Balbriggan native Bill Staunton and his friend Barry Lee who are currently living in Sydney, will return home to Ireland to run the length of the country – 600km from Mizen Head to Malin Head – in just 10 days, all in aid of Pieta House.

This incredible journey is not only a personal challenge but a powerful statement in support of men’s mental health.

Speaking aahed of the challenge Bill explained, “Every year, over 600,000 people worldwide lose their lives to suicide, with 70% of them being men. These statistics are a stark reminder of the mental health crisis we face, and it’s time to make a change. There’s great work being done in Ireland for men’s mental health however there’s work to done. We’re doing this run for those who can’t, to raise awareness, spark conversation, and show that it’s okay to talk, to seek help, and to be heard. We invite you to join us on this journey—whether it’s supporting us along the way, raising awareness in your community, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can make a difference. Mizen to Malin – 600 in 10 Days. Do it for those who can’t.”

Bill and Barry are hoping that the people of Balbriggan can get behind them for the challenge and for those who would like to support them they can go to the dedicated fundraising page at https://gofund.me/40ba587d.

Labour Councillor Mark Boland is one of two new councillors who have been co-opted to Fingal County Council to help fill vacancies created in the Rush-Lusk and Castleknock Local Electoral Areas.

Labour nominated Cllr Boland to fill the new vacancy created by the departure of Kevin Humphries. He will represent the Rush-Lusk area. Endorsed by Cllr Brendan Ryan, Cllr Boland said it was a huge honour and privilege to accept a role as local councillor.

Saying that he was immensely proud to call Fingal home, Cllr Boland said that having worked within the Irish media industry for a number of decades that he has been taught the value of collaboration, creativity, perseverance, and dedication. Alongside his professional career, he said that he has been deeply involved in the community, whether that is playing, coaching, or leading local football and soccer clubs or serving on the various community committees. Becoming a Councillor in the region, he said, would allow him to help amplify the voices of the local people and help build a thriving and inclusive community.

Meanwhile, Solidarity nominated Cllr Helen Redwood following last year’s General Election that saw Deputy Ruth Coppinger move to Dáil Éireann in the Castleknock constituency. Cllr John Burtchaell supported her nomination.

The Fingal County Council Arts Office has announced that there are now a number of awards and residencies available for 2025, providing welcome support for professional artists across a range of career stages and disciplines.

To help artists prepare their submissions in advance, a new calendar has been produced which showcases the various organisations that Fingal has partnered with and provides a time stamp for the opening and closing dates for each award.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh said: “Art cultivates a community’s sense of belonging and pride, which is why we want to support artists as much as possible so they can share their passion and creativity with the public. For over 20 years Fingal has been celebrating the amazing contribution of artists across the county, and we know that these awards and bursaries have really helped develop the careers of local talent in different disciplines.”

The awards and residencies include: The Performing Arts Forum; The Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts; The Ardgillan Castle Studio Award; Tyrone Guthrie Centre and Age & Opportunity; The Graphic Studio Dublin Fine Art Print Residency; The Draíocht Studio Award and The MART Gallery and Studios Graduate Award.

Fingal County Council Arts Officer, Sarah O’Neil remarks: “This showcase detailing our upcoming awards and residencies is essential for professional artists, as it offers both space and time in order to expand and strengthen their practice. These awards also offer a nurturing environment allowing artists to connect with their peers, which is one of our strategic goals of the Fingal County Council Arts plan 2019-2025, ‘Connecting People and Ideas.”

To view the awards calendar go to: https://ow.ly/EW6B50VftuW. More information on each of these awards and residencies will become available on our website and online closer to the time of applications opening. To find out more about current and previous awards, please see: www.fingalarts.ie and www.fingal.ie/arts

Introduction: Are you looking to try something new, exciting, and full of energy? Whether you’re an experienced athlete or new to sports altogether, Gaelic football offers a fun and inclusive way to stay active, make friends, and become part of a vibrant community. We’re welcoming new players, and we’d love for you to join us!

Why You Should Join
Inclusive for All Skill Levels: Whether you’ve never played before or you’re already a seasoned player, Gaelic football is all about learning and growing together.

Get Fit and Have Fun: The sport offers an excellent full-body workout while keeping things fun and engaging.

Meet New People: Join a welcoming and supportive group where making new friends is as easy as kicking a ball.

A Unique Sporting Experience: Experience the rich history and culture of Gaelic football, a game that’s been played for generations.

What You’ll Experience
Training & Coaching: Our dedicated coaches will help you develop your skills in a positive, supportive environment.

Game Day: There’s nothing quite like the thrill of playing a match, whether you’re on the field or cheering from the sidelines.

Team Spirit: From training sessions to social events, you’ll become part of a team that values friendship and mutual respect.

Getting involved is simple! Just Call Marian 0876819540 for more information. No previous experience required—just bring your enthusiasm, and we’ll help you from there!

So, are you ready to get started? We’re excited to welcome you to our Gaelic football family. No matter your experience level, there’s a place for you here. Come see what the buzz is all about, and let’s kick off this exciting adventure together!

Also, this year marks our 90th year as a club. There are lot of special events and commemorative activities planned. Please keep an eye on our social media platforms to follow all updates.

By Ken Duffy

Swords Tidy Towns members Georgy Hughes, Rose Brennan and Matt Cullen recently accepted their National Gold Medal and our Highly Commended EPA Circular Economy Award at the Awards Ceremony in Athlone.

This Gold Medal is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work put in by so many volunteers over the past 20 years. Each volunteer has played their part in achieving this gold medal, they have all done the town of Swords proud.

Fingal County Council our local Representatives and business played their part also on this journey and for that we are very grateful, long may this partnership continue.

Swords Mens Shed Media Hub is providing a platform for local hidden talent.

Performers - the Swords Mens Shed are looking for readers of their short stories and actors for their upcoming Radio Dramas for debut Podcast and YouTube platforms.

Writers - It you have a short story, a drama script or poem that you would like performed why not make contact with me. Email: jimhawkins@eircom.net Phone : 086-0262780

Celebrating Tradition, Friendship and Generous Support. Centrally located on the Swords Road, within sight of Dublin Airport, Sportslink Bowls Club stands as a beacon of camaraderie and friendly competitiveness. With 25 years of history behind us, our club has grown to become a cherished gathering place for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

The club is thrilled to announce that they have recently received generous funding from Fingal County Council, a gesture that has invigorated our club. This support has enabled us to purchase new equipment, including special equipment for our older and less vigorous members, who are a hugely important part of our club. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fingal County Council for their invaluable contribution which ensures that our club will thrive for many years to come.

The club story begins 25 years ago, when a group of bowlers just gathered on the Sportslink bowls green, united by their shared love of bowls. Over the years, we have expanded our membership, with limited facilities, to become the thriving friendly club that we are today.

The Bowls Club is more than just a sports facility.It is a vibrant social centre, where lifelong friendships are forged. We take part in league, cup, championship and practice sessions, with social events that bring together families and friends. Our club prides itself on its inclusive atmosphere, encouraging everyone to take part, regardless of age, ability or disability.

Whether you are a seasoned bowler, or a curious newcomer, we invite you to join our Bowls Club. Come and experience the joy of the game, the warmth of our community, and the beauty of our surroundings. Together we can continue to build on our proud history, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

JKS Swords Karate Club is the lead JKS Dojo in Ireland, promoting, teaching and supporting the development of JKS Karate in Ireland. In February, we ran the JKS Ireland Open Championships which was attended by over 20 Karate Clubs nationally and boasting over 200 competitors and 400 category entries. A great day was had by all.

Our membership is growing but we are still looking for new members to join us (Children, Young People & Adults). Contact Dermot on 087-8073885 for details on how to join. You can also contact us on Facebook: JKS Swords Karate Club or on Instagram: @jks_swords_karate_club