‘A restored pride in their voices’ – Smyth

Bailieborough’s Regeneration has created a real “bounce back” in the town, according to local TD Niamh Smyth.

She praised work being done on the town by painters, businesses and local people saying it has “raised the heartbeat of the community".

“Listening to people, there is a restored pride in their voices. Expressions of feelgood are constantly uttered and there is a pep in people’s outlook,” the Fianna Fáil TD said.

She praised the officer of the project, Caroline Brady, for her passion in her recently appointed post. “Her passion, interest and commitment in getting the work done is there for all to see,” she regarded.

Deputy Smyth said that Bailieborough “requires new business” and urged anyone with ideas for new initiatives to contact Caroline who will provide support in accessing grants and schemes for start-up businesses.

Deputy Smyth also congratulated all the businesses in the town which have participated in the regeneration project to date.

“I am aware of a new growth in community spirit to compliment the extraordinary work of the countless volunteers who offer their time freely for the betterment of our town, our residents and especially our youth,” she said.

The TD also thanked local sporting groups and committees who provide facilities for people in the town, mentioning that “coaches and officers who sacrifice so much of their free time” are sometimes taken for granted.

Highlighting the work of the Tidy Towns Committee, Deputy Smyth encouraged people to get involved in their initiatives and make a conscious effort to keep the town tidy in their daily lives.

"This small group of resolute people have battled against the odds to enhance the appearance of the town and its lead roads by planting flower beds, maintaining and weeding them and in general adding to the colour and appearance of the

Town,” she praised.

Delighted with the re-opening of the Bailie Hotel by local man Austin Kelly, Deputy Smyth underlined the importance “a functioning hotel” in the town “where the needs of the community either in happy or sad occasions can be catered for".

Further improvements are underway. “He has already commenced the refurbishment of all bedrooms and his ambition to develop the Bailie Hotel into a thriving hub are well on the way,” reported the TD.

“The benefit of a good hotel ensures that the socialising of a community is accommodated and satisfied and I thank Austin for his faith in the town and wish him every success in his venture.”

With the closure of schools for the summer, Niamh congratulated the staff and students for their contribution to the town, describing them as “the heartbeat" of the community.

“Their excellent quality of teaching and learning guarantees a bright future for all future generations of children and young adults,” she said of the school community.

In conclusion, Deputy Smyth urged people to shop locally to support business in the town.

“In doing this we are supporting local employment and I would ask businesses to reciprocate your loyalty, trust and allegiance,” she encouraged.