Local composer and historian Michael Holohan says he is delighted to read that the de Lacy Bridge at Scotch Hall is going to get a much needed facelift but he thinks it is time we called the footbridge by it’s proper name.
“At present, there is a small rectangular plaque commemorating the opening of the bridge by the then Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr.Tommy Murphy” he says. “But” he adds, “this tiny and unsightly plaque does nothing to enhance the past history of Drogheda.
“I have just received a copy of a new book written about ‘Hugh de Lacy’ by Councillor Noel French of Trim. It is an excellent read and tells the story of the de Lacys in Trim, Drogheda, Navan and Carlingford.
“Hugh de Lacy was one of the most powerful men in Ireland in the late 1100s. He was like an uncrowned king of Ireland until Henry the second arrived to clip his wings and his will to total power.
“Christian names such as Hugh, Gilbert, Walter, John and Robert are common in the de Lacy family. The time has now come to erect a new plaque with the correct name – Hugh de Lacy.
“This should also be accompanied by an accurate storyboard telling Hugh’s and Drogheda’s past medieval history. Whether he was a planter or our enemy, this Anglo Norman warrior can rightly be called the founder of the medieval town of Drogheda.
Michael points out that People have got used to the name ‘The Mary McAleese Cable Bridge’ which is quite a mouthful. “So why not ‘The Hugh de Lacy Bridge?” he asks.
“I hope our Mayor and fellow councillors will take note of this letter and support the proper naming of the bridge at Scotch Hall.
