Garda Gráinne McLoone and Garda Patrick Kelly accompany
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07 Jan 2026
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07 Jan 2026
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Sinn Féin councillor for Drogheda Debbie McCole has called routine maintenance Drogheda's historical structures.
Councillor McCole put forward a motion calling for a commitment from the Office of Public Works (OPW) to carry out "routine and regular maintenance" of Magdalene Tower, The Buttergate, The Old Abbey, Lawrence Gate and the Town Walls.
Councillor McCole told Drogheda's January Borough District meeting that it is "vital we protect these landmarks".
Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr Michelle Hall supported the motion saying that Magdalene Tower "needs TLC".
Magdalene tower is all that remains of the Dominican Friary built in the 14th century.
Independent councillor Paddy McQuillan said the tower's windows have been broken for "three or four years" and that as a result pigeon waste is causing its walls to rot.
Fine Gael councillor Anne-Marie Ford said it is "sad to see iconic structures go to waste".
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Thomas McEvoy, Director of Services with Louth County Council said in a written response that the council will write to Minister for State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kevin "Boxer" Moran.
He said it will request he commits to a "routine and regular maintenance and conservation schedule in respect of St Laurence's Gate".
However, he said the maintenance of Magdalene Tower, The Old Abbey, The Buttergate and the Town Walls is not the responsibility of the OPW rather it falls under the responsibility of Louth County Council.
He added that Louth County Council had unsuccessful applications for the Community Monuments Fund (CMF) that provides funding for the safeguarding of archaeological monuments.
The application included Magdalene Tower, The circuit of Drogheda's town walls and the West Gable of the North Aisle of 'The Old Abbey'.
Mr McEvoy said it will reapply for the 2026 Community Monuments Fund which is currently open, and will give consideration to updating the unsuccessful applications in 2025.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
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