Members from the Fingal Volunteer Centre were honoured to attend the cheque presentation from the wonderful volunteers at Malahide Lions Club to the Skerries Youth Support Services team. Through their incredible fundraising efforts, Malahide Lions Club generously donated €1,500 to support this important work.
Skerries Youth Support Service is a volunteer-led organisation providing free counselling for young people aged 12–24, offering vital support to those who need it most.
“Our Volunteer Centre is all about connecting the community, and moments like this remind us why it matters. When we first met with the Lions Club, we shared the fantastic work that Michael and Dave are doing in the community. That conversation led to an introduction to SYSS — and ultimately to this generous support. This is community connection in action: volunteers supporting volunteers to make a real difference for young people in our area. Thank you to Malahide Lions Club for your generosity and commitment to helping local youth thrive,” the group stated.
Francis (Frank) Lawless (1870-1922) TD and patriot, came from an illustrious nationalistic farming family from Saucerstown, Swords. The Lawless family would have been seen as ‘strong’ farmers in the Swords area. The Lawlesses were involved in every local Irish organisation including the Gaelic League, the GAA and Feiseanna.
Frank Lawless, like many of his family, was a fine singer and performer. He was elected president of Fingallians in 1902 having played himself for their team. He was a senior officer in the Fingal Volunteers, playing a pivotal role in the 1916 rising. He was elected a Sinn Fein TD 1919-1922 and was pro-Treaty.
Frank Lawless was tragically killed, aged 51, in an accident involving a horse - drawn cart. His funeral saw both Eamonn de Valera and Michael Collins both in attendance, united in their grief.
Mp2911198@gmail.com.
Fingal County Council has marked the commencement of works on the Seatown Road to Estuary Road Active Travel Scheme with a sod turning event attended by the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly and Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel & Sport, David Storey. The project will deliver a range of improvements designed to enhance safety, accessibility and the overall travel experience for people moving along this route.
John Cradock Ltd has been appointed as the contractor for the scheme, with works having commenced recently and estimated to take approximately 12 months to complete. Upgrades include new cycle lanes on both sides of the road and the widening of the footpath under the bridge to improve pedestrian safety. The project also includes upgrading the roundabouts at Swords Business Campus and Estuary Road to designs that better accommodate cyclists, consisting of two cycle-friendly roundabouts with safe pedestrian crossings at all exits to protect vulnerable road users. These improvements will create more convenient and accessible travel options for people walking, cycling and wheeling, whether travelling to school, sport, shops or work.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, stated: “I am delighted to see works begin on this project which will make everyday journeys safer and more enjoyable for people living, working and visiting the area. By improving footpaths, enhancing cycling facilities and calming traffic, we are creating a road environment that better supports families, schoolchildren and our most vulnerable road users.”
David Storey, Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel & Sport at Fingal County Council, said: “The commencement of works on the Seatown Road to Estuary Road Active Travel Scheme is an important step in strengthening the sustainable transport network in this part of the county. It advances the wider active travel link between Swords and Malahide, creating a more connected corridor that will serve the community well into the future.”
Aer Lingus Lawn Bowls Club is a vibrant, friendly club located in the ALSAA sports complex K67YV06.
We have recently acquired a new synthetic Greengauge mat. This has enhanced our club immensely and we now possess one of the best bowling greens in the country.
In 2025 we were winners of an ILB Vets team. We also had finalists in the ILB doubles and triples championship competitions. We cater for men and women and we play in a mixed league.
If you are interested in joining our club, we offer coaching sessions, social and league games. We participate in ILB winter and summer leagues as well as internal club competitions.
We will have an open day in late March, date to be confirmed.
If you would like to have a trial session, please contact us on aerlinguslawnbowlsclub@hotmail.com. Sandra McCarthy on 086-813114540
Do you have a big day on the horizon? A wedding speech, an important job interview, or a high-stakes presentation? For many of us, the thought of addressing an audience can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right support and practice, you can transform fear into confidence.
That’s where Toastmasters International comes in. At Swords Toastmasters, we provide a supportive, structured environment where members develop the skills and self-belief to communicate with clarity and confidence. Guests are always welcome to attend for an obligation-free visit. One member who took that first step is Louise Duffy.
Louise said “After I got promoted, I quickly felt the dread of having to deliver presentations to senior management and speak in front of large audiences. I began researching ways to improve my skills and found Swords Toastmasters. From the very first meeting, the group was welcoming and encouraging. They provide a friendly, non-judgemental environment where you can become comfortable addressing a crowd. Everyone genuinely wants you to succeed, while also offering constructive feedback to help you grow. I’m pleased to say I now have no problem addressing an audience — whether delivering a speech or presenting. In fact, I don’t give it a second thought anymore. That transformation wouldn’t have been possible without Swords Toastmasters.”
Louise’s experience is a reminder that confident communication is not something you are simply born with — it is a skill that can be learned, practised, and mastered. If you’re ready to conquer your fear and unlock your potential, why not come along and see what’s possible?
Contact swordstm@gmail.com today to arrange your complimentary visit.
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. If you would like to see Louise 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 meet Every 2nd Monday from 8pm – 10pm at Forrest Little Golf Club, Forrest Road, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 K825. For more information, email swordstm@gmail.com or contact the membership officer on 086 8538048.
Rush Community Council is delighted to announce that our annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Tuesday 17 March at 1pm.
The theme this year is Pirates, Myths and Legends of Rush!!
Mark your calendars and come out to celebrate our fantastic community with a day full of colour, music, and local pride!
If you are interested in being part of the parade, please either pop into Rush Community Centre or email info@rushcoco.ie for more information and the application form, the closing date for applications is Monday 9 March.
Call for Parade Marshals
We’re currently looking for volunteer marshals to help make the day run smoothly and safely. If you can spare a couple of hours to support this wonderful community event, we’d love to hear from you.
Marshals play a key role in:
Rush is getting ready to sparkle in shades of sunshine as the Rush Daff Day Committee rolls out another unforgettable weekend of community spirit, celebration, and heartfelt support for the Irish Cancer Society.
For an incredible 38 years, this dedicated local committee has been spreading hope — raising a phenomenal €1 million since 1988! That milestone is a glowing tribute to the generosity, kindness, and unstoppable energy of the people of Rush. And if this year is anything to go by, they’re only just getting started.
A Weekend Packed with Heart and Happiness
Festivities burst into life at 6am on Friday, 20th March, when enthusiastic volunteers take to the streets to kick off a jam-packed programme of feel-good events:
Coffee Morning – Rush Community Centre
Pop in for a warm cuppa, indulge in a delicious selection of homemade cakes, and browse Irish Cancer Society merchandise — because cake tastes even better when it’s for a great cause!
Maisie’s Raffle
Get your tickets ready — there are some fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Garden of Hope – Rush Library (from March 16th)
Plant a daffodil in memory of a loved one or leave a message of encouragement for someone bravely facing cancer. A beautiful space filled with remembrance, love, and support.
Michelle’s Fun Run – Friday Evening, Harbour Park
Michelle’s running friends lace up once again to mark her 10th anniversary — a touching tribute filled with strength, solidarity, and smiles.
Dash and Splash Swim – Saturday, Rush South Beach
Feeling brave? Join the sea swimmers for a refreshing (and possibly chilly!) dip in support of Daff Day.
Village Twalk – Sunday Morning - Led by the ever-energetic Declan (CJ), this uplifting community walk promises plenty of chat, cheer, and bright yellow spirit.
Declan has been a driving force behind this year’s mission to truly “turn Rush yellow,” shining a spotlight on the very real and lasting difference fundraising makes for cancer patients and their families.
Most importantly, every single cent raised — 100% — goes directly to the Irish Cancer Society, funding lifesaving research and providing essential support services for those who need it most.
The committee’s powerful message says it all: “We won’t give up till cancer does.”
So dust off your brightest yellow, gather your friends and family, and join in. Let’s make this year’s Daff Day weekend the biggest, brightest, and most joyful celebration of hope yet.
Rush, it’s time to turn yellow!
AGM
Thank you to everyone who took the time to attend the Rush Tidy Towns AGM in January. The meeting wasn’t just a review of the past year—it sparked a lively discussion on how Rush can continue to evolve as a cleaner, greener, and more resilient coastal town.
We were delighted to reappoint all existing committee members and to welcome new member Louise, This year’s priorities reflect both community feedback and the practical needs of a growing town: tackling litter blackspots, progressing biodiversity corridors, improving pedestrian-friendly spaces, and deepening collaboration with local schools and businesses.
As always, Rush Tidy Towns is strongest when more voices are involved. If you’re interested in helping shape these projects. Whether as a committee member or a volunteer for occasional event, we’d love to hear from you at tidytownsrush@gmail.com. Even a single hour a month can make a real difference.
School Beach Clean
A huge thank you to the Community Care class from St. Joseph’s Secondary School, who recently took on one of the less glamorous but most important tasks on South Beach: clearing heavy tidal debris washed in by recent storms. Under the guidance of teacher Kevin, the students rolled up their sleeves and removed large items that pose risks to wildlife, walkers, and the overall health of the coastline.
What made this cleanup stand out wasn’t just the amount collected, it was the attitude of the students. They asked sharp questions about marine pollution, how debris travels along the coast, and why certain items keep appearing. Their curiosity and teamwork showed exactly why involving young people in environmental care has such long term value.
Their efforts have already made the beach safer for everyone who uses it, from families and swimmers to the wildlife whose habitat it is. Well done to all involved—your work has a visible impact on the community.
The races came thick and fast during February as club members were in action in Dundalk, Trim, Murcia and Donadea as well as cross country and indoor competition. Well done to all and to all the juveniles who participated at the Dublin Spraoi Games in the NIA. It’s not too late to take part in the 40-day 5k challenge and we hope you can join us for the Lusk St Patrick’s Day parade.
Local Round Up from last quarter: Coastal Bus Connects Group: On 3rd December, representative members of the communities of Lusk, Rush, Loughshinny and Skerries (Coastal BusConnects Group of which LAG is the Lusk representative) and local TDs Louise O’Reilly TD, Grace Boland FG, (apologies from Robert O’Donoghue TD) and Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee met members of the National Transport Authority and representatives from the Department of Transport to discuss our BusConnects proposal for a continued all day, but improved service to Dublin City Centre. Apologies were made by the Minister for Transport, due to scheduling changes after President Zelensky’s visit. The NTA committed to providing a response in Q1 2026.
Lusk for Life-Lusk Town Regeneration Scheme: In December, the first Town Team meeting with the new community-led committee was held in the Fingal County Council buildings.
Lynne Barker, LAG was elected as the initial Chairperson of the group, and this position will be rotated. Community members currently on the team are Lynne Barker, Brian Arnold, Colin Browne, Frances Byrne and Michael Griffin. Local councillors will also sit on the team - Councillors Mark Boland, Corina Johnston, Eoghan Dockrell, Cathal Boland and Paul Mulville. The team will be supported by the Town Regeneration Office in Fingal County Council.
The committee also hosted the first Community Forum meeting on 18th February with representatives from a wide section of community groups and businesses attending. Both the Town Team and Community Forum are hugely positive steps towards delivering the Lusk for Life, Town Centre First Plan.
Public Consultation for Proposed Variation to Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029: In January, LAG made a submission to FCC regarding the proposed re-zoning of lands for housing development on two sites in Lusk for housing. Among the concerns raised included the volume of development in the town in the last two decades and the lack of accompanying amenities to support existing infrastructure.
Date for the diary! The LAG Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 3rd March in the Cottage Community Centre at 7pm. All are welcome, especially any members of the community who may be interested in joining and getting involved in supporting local projects.