Seasonal greetings from the Minister of State
I have had a very busy year both in the constituency and in my department representing you as local TD and Minister. My role is broad, fast paced and ever changing. It involves developing trade links nationally and internationally with local companies, creating jobs on the ground and promoting Ireland as leading the way in Trade, AI and Digitisation.
In early October, I was delighted to secure €792,000 from Minister Calleary’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund towards the regeneration of Bailieborough. This funding will help to rejuvenate our town making it more attractive to work and live in. It will support the excellent work of Caroline Brady our regeneration officer with the Market Square traffic junction, footpaths and Library Plaza benefitting from it.
I invited Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan to see first-hand the modern new Garda Station on Main Street, and he is eagerly looking forward to its official opening in 2026.
Its presence in the centre of Main Street will assist in the town’s renewal and future growth.
I also highlighted the fantastic work going on in Bailieborough such as ‘Project 365’. This initiative is funded by the Department of Justice and works with our young people on the ground.
During the Minister’s visit, co-ordinator Sharon Ivers outlined the value of the excellent work her staff provides for its young service users.
It is about engagement that exposes young minds to new opportunities and exciting activities and outdoor pursuits like kayaking to help them steer a healthy pathway towards positive wellbeing and outlook. It’s working with over 60 families in Bailieborough and they’ve outreach services right throughout the county.
As always, my constituency offices in Bailieborough (042-9666666), Castleblayney (042-9751802), and Cavan Town continue to serve you daily with queries on issues such as farming payments, TB Compensation scheme, problems in disability, Probate issues and land registry to name but a few. We support carers with issues like home support, fast track passports, ensure investment in childcare facilities for proprietors who reach out to us. You name it, we do it: niamh.smyth@oireachtas.ie
I wish the joy of Christmas and its spirit of giving be carried in our hearts long into 2026. Síochán ar fud an Domhain Um Nollaig agus i gcóir na hAthabhliana.