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Community Spirit on Display as Pride of Place Judges Visit Louth

Pride of Place judges John Fitzgerald (fourth from left) and Tim Caffrey (fifth from right), pictured with Louth County Council staff and Dundalk Youth Centre staff and service users at the Pride of Place judging held in Dundalk Youth Centre, Roden Place, Dundalk.

Louth County Council welcomed the judges of the prestigious IPB Pride of Place to Dundalk and Ardee on Thursday, 13 August. The judging events showcased two inspiring initiatives that are making a significant impact within their communities.

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

This year, Louth County Council nominated two initiatives to represent the county: Dundalk Youth Centre in the Youth Initiative category; and Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project in the Age Friendly Communities category.

Pride of Place judges John Fitzgerald (fifth from left) and Tim Caffrey (sixth from left), pictured with Cathaoirleach of Louth Country Council, Cllr Dolores Minogue (fourth from left); Chairperson of the Louth Older People's Council, Joe Grogan (second from left); Louth County Council staff and Ardee Garden Care and Repair project staff and service users at the Pride of Place judging held in Ardee.

The judging day commenced with presentations from both groups, providing the judges with an opportunity to learn about the work being undertaken and the positive impact these initiatives have on the lives of people throughout County Louth. Presentations were followed by discussions and site visits, allowing the judges to gain a deeper understanding of the projects and the communities they serve.

Welcoming the judges to Louth, Cathaoirleach of Louth Country Council, Cllr Dolores Minogue, said:

“Pride of Place is about recognising the people, organisations and volunteers who make a lasting difference through their commitment, collaboration and community spirit. Dundalk Youth Centre and the Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project are excellent examples of how local initiatives can enhance quality of life, foster inclusion and strengthen communities for people of all ages. Their achievements reflect the very best of County Louth, and we are proud to have them representing us in this year's competition."

Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, Cllr Jim Tenanty, and praised the work of Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project saying:

"The Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project has become an essential support for many older people in our community, helping them to remain independent in their own homes. The commitment of the volunteers involved is exemplary, and we are proud to see the scheme representing Louth in the Age Friendly Communities category."

Leas Chathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr John Reilly, commended the Dundalk Youth Centre saying:

"Dundalk Youth Centre provides an invaluable service to young people across our community, offering support, opportunities and a safe environment in which they can thrive. It was a pleasure to welcome the judges and showcase the tremendous work being carried out by the centre."

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, expressed his pride in the nominees:

"We are delighted that Dundalk Youth Centre and the Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project are representing Louth in this year's Pride of Place Competition. Both initiatives demonstrate the strength of community spirit that exists across County Louth and the positive difference that dedicated volunteers, staff and participants can make in people's lives. I wish them every success in the competition."

Paula Keenan, Senior Executive Officer with Louth County Council, praised both nominees:

"Both groups representing Louth were outstanding throughout the judging process, demonstrating passion, innovation and a deep commitment to their communities. It has been a pleasure for Louth County Council to work alongside these initiatives, and we are extremely proud of how they presented their achievements to the judges."

The winners of the 2026 IPB Pride of Place competition will be announced later this year at the national awards ceremony in October 2026.

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

Louth County Council welcomed the judges of the prestigious IPB Pride of Place to Dundalk and Ardee on Thursday, 13 August. The judging events showcased two inspiring initiatives that are making a significant impact within their communities.