Murtaghs of Drogheda ‘happy to help’ clean-up efforts around the town
THE more eagle-eyed residents of the town will have noticed that certain areas are looking a lot more spic and span these days, with more than one lick of paint brightening up parts of Drogheda which has suffered years of neglect.
Much of this work is being carried out by legions of volunteers, who are giving of their time and energy to make Drogheda a place of which to be proud.
“It’s a shame in a way it has taken some people, especially those in power, to have something like the Fleadh come to town before badly-needed work is carried out,” says one volunteer Ann McVeigh from the Chord Road/North Strand Regeneration programme.
“We should be cleaning up our communities because we have pride in our own town, and not just what visitors might think of it.”
Even though the clean-up of areas like the North Strand started last year, the volunteers, under the guidance of Tony Smith, have stepped up their work in recent weeks.
“The better weather has helped, as well as getting a donation from Murtagh’s of the Fairgreen, who managed to get litres of paint free from Dulux.”
Owner Barry Murtagh says he was only too glad to help. “I knew once the Fleadh was approching, I would get a few requests,” he says with a laugh.
“Dulux were delighted to get on board, as we have had a great relationship with them for over 40 years, first with my Dad and then with me.”
Barry’s donations can be seen on the newly painted wall on Barrack Lane, as well as on the North Strand, but he says everyone should be doing their bit for the town.
“It’s the ones who actually get involved and paint like Noel Bailey, Tony Smith, Ann and the other volunteers who should get the credit.”