Fine Gael local election candidate Shona McManus says that, as Drogheda continues to grow with new housing developments being built on the outskirts of town, there’s a pressing need to ensure that these developments are accompanied by adequate facilities to support families.
“One of the most pressing issues resonating on doorsteps across Drogheda is the difficulty of securing suitable childcare options for working parents” Shona says.
“Some Creches and Montessori’s in the urban area are reporting that they are already fully booked until 2026, leaving many families stressed as they try to juggle both work and home life. Some expectant mothers are even reaching out for childcare spots before their children are born, highlighting the urgency of the matter.
“Additionally, this problem extends to after-school care for older children, particularly those between the ages of 11-14. Many parents find themselves in limbo where their children are too old for creche services but too young to be left unsupervised while their parents work. It’s imperative that a solution is found to address this widespread issue, affecting numerous families in Drogheda.
“Feedback on the doorsteps and from my recent ‘Driving Drogheda Forward’ survey highlight a real lack of local amenities for children and young people.
“With just one playground servicing the entire town, many parents are forced to travel considerable distances to Laytown, Bettystown and Tullyallen to provide their children with a safe and enjoyable environment to play.
“Traffic congestion and a lack of parking also prevent families from enjoying St. Dominic’s Park as they should. According to parents I’m speaking to, the playground at Dominic’s Park is severely neglected with inappropriate graffiti drawn on the playground equipment with a number of the equipment broken or removed.
“To address these pressing concerns, there’s a crucial need for enhanced planning, forward-thinking, and collaborative efforts. Future development plans must prioritise the needs of families and incorporate essential facilities right from the planning phase, rather than treating them as an afterthought.
“As Drogheda continues to grow, it’s imperative that stakeholders engage in joined-up thinking to create a community that caters to the diverse needs of its residents.”
