Louth communities shine as Pride of Place judges visit

PHOTO CAPTION: Pride of Place judges Katrina Murphy (third from right) and Tom Dowling (fourth from right), pictured with Joanna Kelly, Director of Services, Louth County Council, and members of the Dromiskin Tidy Towns committee, Mary Murtagh, Liam Reilly, Henry Murtagh, Pat Mulligan, Seamus McArdle and Kevin Halpenny at the Pride of Place judging held in Dromiskin, Dundalk

Louth County Council welcomed the judges of the Pride of Place competition on Wednesday, 9th July, as part of a special visit to meet this year’s county nominees. 

The events, held in Drogheda and Dromiskin, highlighted the community spirit and innovation thriving across County Louth.

Pride of Place, an all-island initiative organised by Co-Operation Ireland in partnership with IPB Insurance, celebrates the achievements of communities that demonstrate outstanding civic pride, inclusivity, and partnership with local authorities.

This year, Louth County Council has nominated two outstanding initiatives to represent the county:

• Boyne Valley Camino in the Community Tourism Initiative category
• Dromiskin, Dundalk in the Population 1,000–2,000 category

The judging day began with engaging presentations at the Droichead Arts Centre in Drogheda and St Peter’s National School in Dromiskin. Each nominee group showcased their impactful work, followed by insightful Q&A sessions with the judges, offering a deeper understanding of the initiatives’ contributions to community life.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Dromiskin is a shining example of what makes County Louth so special. From preserving local heritage to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all, Dromiskin has set a standard we can all be proud of. I commend everyone involved and wish them, and the Boyne Valley Camino, the very best in the competition.”

Cllr Michelle Hall, Mayor of Drogheda, shared her enthusiasm: “It is a joy to see Drogheda’s community spirit shine through initiatives like the Boyne Valley Camino. Pride of Place is a celebration of what makes our towns and villages special: the people, the passion, and the pride. I’m privileged to support these efforts and to welcome the judges to witness the heart of our community.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, expressed his pride in the nominees: “We are delighted that the Boyne Valley Camino and the Dromiskin Community are representing Louth in this year's Pride of Place Competition. It is a wonderful competition which highlights all that is best and innovative in communities throughout the island of Ireland, and I wish them both the very best of luck.”

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Paula Gribben, Administrative Officer with Louth County Council, also praised the nominees, saying: “Today, both groups representing Louth were outstanding, and we are confident that they will do well in this year’s competition. It has been a pleasure for Louth County Council to work with both nominees over the years, and we are extremely proud of their performance.”

The winners of the 2025 Pride of Place competition will be announced at a gala awards ceremony on 7th November at the Limerick Strand Hotel.

Louth County Council said it "extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to both nominees as they continue to inspire and uplift their communities."

For more information about the Pride of Place competition, visit www.prideofplace.ie