Happy New Year!
2017 in Meath has been off to a fantastic start so far. Ashbourne came 3rd overall in the IBAL Anti Litter League competition that seeks to recognise the cleanest towns in Ireland. This is certainly some achievement and is a testament to our County Council's outdoor staff, Tidy Towns volunteer, Residents Associations and general residents in the town. We should all be extremely proud!
I have spent the last couple of weeks getting back on track after the Christmas period and I am excited to face whatever challenges 2017 brings. I have attended several Council and Chamber meetings between the 9th and 18th of january, so I can assure you that plans are being put into Ashbourne to make sure that we get even more work done in 2017.
I am presently working on a letter to the principal of Ashbourne Community School to invite transition year students to the Ashbourne Municipal District Building to be present during one of our monthly meetings. This should be a great experience for the students as they will get an insight into how the Council works and makes decisions.
On the 23rd of this month, I had the privilege of turning on the lights at St. Vincent's GAA club in Ardcath. Five of the six Councillours each contributed €2,500 towards the initiative that is now up and running and providing a free lit walkway around the grounds of the club. People do not have to become members of the club to use the walkway. It will provide people with a safe place to walk or run during the dark mornings and evenings. 11 laps of the track is equivalent to 5km!
The next night, I went on a canvass around Ashewood for a few hours to gain feedback regarding pyrite and other issues identified in the estate. I was pleased to discover that there were not too many problems and the feedback was mainly positive.
At the end of this month, I will be stepping down from my role as President of the Ashbourne Chamber of Commerce after 16 months in the position. I have enjoyed the experience and have made some lifelong friends. I wish the Chamber the best of luck in the future.
I look forward to posting these monthly updates and I hope that you will get some benefit from them!
Cllr. Alan Tobin.
