Fine Gael local election candidate Shóna McManus took Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and Euro election candidate Nina Carberry on a walk down West Street and Narrow West Street last Saturday to show them the serious levels of dereliction that have been allowed to develop there.

Ms. McManus emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, "Narrow West Street, once a thriving, bustling street full of traders, is now a complete eyesore and embarrassment for the people of Drogheda, not to mention a serious health and safety issue.

“We urgently need a town centre rejuvenation plan, the establishment of a task force, clear planning, and funding to tackle this pressing problem head-on – all of which I discussed with Minister Carroll MacNeill on Saturday."

The walkabout provided a stark visual reminder of the neglect that Drogheda has suffered, prompting a call to action from Shona McManus and residents who joined the trio on their walkabout.

Minister Carroll MacNeill, who is Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach and at the Department of Foreign Affairs and also at the Department of Defence, assured Ms McManus of her commitment to addressing these concerns and pledged to work collaboratively towards finding viable solutions.

“The conversation sparked during the walkabout underscores the critical need for immediate action to revitalise Drogheda and restore it to its former vibrancy” McManus said.