Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor Visits Healthy Louth’s Boxing Clever Programme at Red Door Project, Drogheda
Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, visited Healthy Louth’s Boxing Clever programme at the Red Door Project in Drogheda on Thursday, 26 February.
The Minister was welcomed by Joanna Kelly, Director of Services, Louth County Council; Rachel Finegan, Healthy Louth Coordinator at Louth County Council; Cllr Pio Smyth, Community Employment Supervisor at Red Door; staff of the Red Door Project; and participants currently engaged in the programme.
Now in its third year, Boxing Clever is a transformative wellbeing and education initiative delivered by The Red Door Project and supported by Louth County Council and Healthy Louth through the Healthy Ireland Fund.
Over 20 weeks, participants take part in a structured programme that blends QQI accredited education in addiction studies and health related fitness with intensive physical training, including structured boxing sessions. They also explore nutrition, mindfulness and stress management, all while building confidence, forming friendships and restoring a sense of purpose and routine.
Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD said she was truly delighted to visit the Boxing Clever programme as it exemplifies dedication to enhancing health and wellbeing across communities. She said the initiative not only promotes physical fitness through boxing sessions but also provides an academic element that equips participants with skills that can be transferred to employment opportunities. She added that the programme plays a crucial role in building mental resilience, fostering social connections and empowering individuals to live more active and healthier lives.
Rachel Finegan, Healthy Louth Coordinator at Louth County Council, said the Boxing Clever programme is delivering real, measurable benefits for people in Louth. She said it gives participants the tools to support their recovery through structured fitness and education in a safe and supportive environment. She added that increased wellbeing, stronger personal motivation and improved community connection are evident among those who take part, and that Healthy Louth is proud to work with the Red Door Project to bring programmes like this to the people who need them most.
