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Public Information For The People of Drogheda

6/14/2018

Members of the public in Drogheda are being invited to attend an important information briefing on arrangements for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018. The event, which is hosted by the local Fleadh Executive Committee and supported by Louth County Council, will be held on Thursday 21st June between 4pm and 7:30pm at the Drogheda Youth Development building on Narrow Street West.

A panel of representatives will lead the briefing from the Fleadh Executive Committee, Louth County Council, An Garda Síochána and Safe Events. The briefing will allow members of the public to review plans for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and address any issues they may have with regard to traffic disruption, road closures and transport links during the week- long event.

Joan Martin Chief Executive of Louth County Council said: “The initiative will allow members of the public to voice any concerns they have in relation to preparations for the Fleadh or during the week of the Fleadh commencing in August. A team of experts will be on hand to answer queries and ally any fears which may be expressed during the information briefing”

Lolo Robinson Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee (FEC) said: “The FEC and Louth Council are committed to working closely with the public to ensure that minimum disruption is caused during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann”

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the largest celebration of Irish music, song and dance in the world and this year’s event marks the first time that the festival will be held on the north east coast of the country. Fleadh Drogheda, which is supported by main sponsor the Credit Union, will be held from 12th – 19th of August and boasts some of the country’s most talented musicians, singers and dancers including Martin Hayes and Denis Cahill, Zoë Conway, Damien Dempsey, Pádraigín Ni Uallacháin, Sibéal Davitt and Gerry O’Connor.

For further information on the special briefing session on Wednesday 30th May, please contact info@fleadhcheoil.ie .

€100K Committed In Major Sponsorship Deal By Drogheda & District Vintners & Hoteliers To Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann 2018

6/14/2018

Members of the Drogheda & District Vintners & Hoteliers and their suppliers have announced a significant sponsorship deal as part of their commitment and support for Drogheda Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018.
The deal, set to be worth in excess of €100,000, has the backing of all publicans in Drogheda who collectively employ in the region of 300 staff. Publicans and their suppliers have been working tirelessly behind the scenes for many months to put the package together.
The sponsorship is just one of a number of initiatives announced by publicans and their suppliers, who have also launched their unique Fleadh Pub guide and website set to be officially unveiled on Tuesday the 19th of June at the Westcourt Hotel in Drogheda at 5pm.
Brian Browning, a member of the VFI Drogheda and District, said:“This significant sponsorship deal would not have been possible without the collaboration and support of suppliers who were not found wanting throughout the entire process”.
Colette Nugent Chairperson of Louth VFI said: “Publicans in Drogheda have made considerable financial investment in both their premises and staff over the past months to ensure that they will be Fleadh ready in order to provide their customers with a unique Fleadh visitor experience. Extra staff and resources will be in place to deal with the hundreds of thousands of visitors expected during the Fleadh in August.”
The user friendly detailed Fleadh Pub guide compiled in association with suppliers will allow visitors to the town identify, at a glance, the location of pubs and details of entertainment and other services provided by them during the Fleadh.
Similar information will also be provided online on the designated website which is set to be activated on the night.

Volunteers Wanted for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018

5/14/2018

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 is delighted to announce the launch of this year’s Fleadh Volunteer programme, which will run throughout the 8 day festival from 12th – 19th August 2018. The programme, which is coordinated by the Louth Volunteer Centre and backed by Coca-Cola International Services, invites applications from anyone interested in getting involved in the world’s largest celebration of Irish traditional music and culture.

Over 1,000 volunteers will be required to help stage this year’s Fleadh and ensure that Drogheda offers a memorable and enjoyable experience for the 400,000 visitors expected to descend on the area this August. Volunteers will play a pivotal role in not only the success of the Fleadh but in showing off Drogheda and the whole North East region in its best light. By joining the Fleadh Volunteer Programme, participants can look forward to becoming part of a family of volunteers, have fun and meet new people, whilst also showcasing the very best that this year’s festival has to offer.

Commenting on the Volunteer Programme, Gráinne Berrill, Manager of the Louth Volunteer Centre said; “We are very excited to announce the launch of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Volunteer Programme 2018. Volunteering has a profoundly positive impact on people and their local communities. It is timely that we should announce the Fleadh Volunteer Programme during National Volunteering Week, with the theme of Building Better Communities. It is our aim that through the Fleadh Volunteer Programme, and with the backing of Coca-Cola International Services who are passionate about making a positive difference in our local communities, that the people of County Louth and the surrounding region come together as a community to build a world class event which showcases the region as a must-visit destination.

“We are encouraging absolutely everyone in Dundalk, Drogheda, County Meath and County Dublin to take part in the volunteer programme and are grateful for any time that they can contribute. Becoming a Fleadh Volunteer offers participants an opportunity to build new friendships, develop new skills and play an integral role in the success of the biggest festival of Irish culture in the world.”

Last year applications were received from as far as away as Russia and already this year applications have come in from volunteers in Italy and the UK. This year’s programme offers a wide range of roles to suit all ages abilities and interests.

Jennifer Brennan, Coca-Cola International Services commented on their involvement in the Fleadh Volunteer Programme; “For over 40 years Coca-Cola International Services has played a significant role in supporting the local community here in Drogheda and so we are delighted to demonstrate our on-going commitment to Drogheda through the sponsorship of the Volunteer Programme for this year’s Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann!”

Applications are now open to people aged 15 years and older – there is no upper limit! Volunteer shifts vary in length from 4 – 8 hours and all volunteers must attend mandatory training, which is scheduled for July and August, in advance of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. To register your interest in becoming a volunteer, visit http://fleadhcheoil.ie/volunteers/or contact the Louth Volunteer Centre team at 041 9809008.

Drogheda Welcomes Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018

5/1/2018

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 is the largest celebration of Irish music, song and dance in the world and has been launched in Drogheda, Co.Louth today, Tuesday 1st May 2018. This year’s Fleadh, which is sponsored by the Credit Union, will be held from 12th – 19th of August and boasts some of the country’s most talented musicians, singers and dancers including Martin Hayes and Denis Cahill, Zoë Conway, Damien Dempsey, Pádraigín Ni Uallacháin, Sibéal Davitt and Gerry O’Connor.

Today’s launch marks the first time Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will be held on the north east coast of the country and organisers have worked tirelessly to ensure that this year’s event will offer a unique and memorable experience for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors can look forward to seeing Stockton’s Wing reform for a one-off performance for the first time in decades, whilst Irish traditional band Beoga who were recently announced as the support act for Ed Sheeran’s greatly-anticipated Irish shows, are sure to draw large crowds into Drogheda this August.

Aoife Ruane, Chair of the Programme Committee said: "We have taken great pleasure and pride in exploring and preparing the concert programme for this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann; reflecting the immense wealth of talent, experience, and ingenuity in traditional Irish music today, and in particular highlighting the work of artists in the Oriel Region. Drogheda is situated at the southern end of the ancient kingdom of Oriel, stretching northwards across borders and boundaries to Armagh. It is one of the richest areas of traditional music in Ireland and has a wealth of music collected in manuscript and transmitted orally down through generations."

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 offers Drogheda and the surrounding region a unique opportunity to showcase itself on both a national and international stage. With over 400,000 people expected to visit the region for the week-long festival, 30% of which are expected to travel from overseas, organisers are committed to promoting Drogheda and County Louth as a world-class tourist destination.

Colm Breheny, Ireland’s Ancient East Manager, Failte Ireland commented:“Failte Ireland is delighted to support Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 in Drogheda this August. Hosting such a prestigious event affords County Louth an unrivaled opportunity to showcase the many things it has to offer to both residents and visitors alike from heritage, culture and Irish tradition. 2018 also marks the first time that the Fleadh will take place on the north east coast of Ireland, allowing us to shine a spotlight on what makes Ireland’s Ancient East truly special.”

The Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Joan Martin commented:“Hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for two consecutive years is an honour for County Louth and the town of Drogheda. It also offers signiciant economic benefits for the area, with an estimated €40million expected to flow into County Louth as a result of the festival.

“Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will shine a spotlight on the region, affording us an opportunity to cement the area as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international visitors. County Louth has a long-established and extensive arts, heritage and cultural programme and the Fleadh will further underpin this, whilst also enhancing our flourishing ‘Creative Ireland’ programme.”

This year’s line-up has been described as one of the most exciting to date, with an array of artists of local, national and international significance including the Hot House Flowers, Julie Fowlis, Frankie Gavin, Odhrán Ó Casaide, Mairead and Triona Ni Dhomhnall, Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny, Moya Brennan & Cormac De Barra, Ulaid, The Voice Squad and Sibeal O Casaide. Completing the line-up are Kieran Hanrahan, this year’s recipient of the third The Flanagan Brothers, Michael Holohan, Mick O’Brien & Family, banjo player Stevie Dunne, the RTÉ Contempo Quartlet and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra in a programme that also celebrates Irish traditional music song and dance and its importance through families and the intergenerational exchange that takes place.

Commenting on Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Dr Labhrás Ó’ Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann said:“Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is now the largest and most unique cultural festival in the world. Its significance is cultural, economic and social and it is a tribute to all those who kept our cultural traditions alive down through the decades. Drogheda is an ideal venue for this celebration of whom we are as a people.”

Drogheda is a town built on community spirit. It is a vibrant town driven by a positive outlook, nestling in a tranquil oasis of heritage and culture. Its enthusiasm and can-do attitude has never been more evident than when it was announced that the Fleadh would be coming to Ireland’s biggest town this August. The many community and voluntary groups of Louth were not found wanting when asked to help with the mammoth task of organising the biggest celebration of Irish culture in the world.

In addition to the army of volunteers, who are instrumental in the planning and staging of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the local community are also being encouraged to get involved in this years festivities. With hundreds of thousands of people expected to attend this summer’s event, residents in Drogheda and the surrounding region are being urged to rent out their homes or spare rooms to people searching for accommdation.

People are also invited to take part in various other activities surrounding the Fleadh, including the incredibly popular Scoil Éigse, which offers people of all ages the opportunity to participate in workshops and traditional music sessions to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Irish music. It is estimated that approximately 900 musicians will attend Scoil Éigse workshops in Drogheda this August.

This year’s Fleadh offers an extensive youth programme which aims to increase student’s awareness of Irish culture and tradition and encourage them to become actively involved in the celebrations for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. The school children of Drogheda and the surrounding region are leading the charge when it comes to participation and initiative, by taking part in musical events and arts and crafts programmes with their local communities.

The Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee, Lolo Robinson said:“I am delighted at the level of interest shown by the community who have come forward in large numbers expressing an interest in getting involved in Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

“The people of County Louth are no strangers to opening up their homes to visitors and giving them a céad mile fáilteto remember.”

Speaking on behaf of the collective group of Credit Unions across the North East sponsoring Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Tom Kiely, CEO, Drogheda Credit Union commented:“It is very exciting that a group of Credit Unions across the North East have come together to be Main Sponsor for the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2018. Drogheda Credit Union and Dundalk Credit Union have teamed up with Credit Unions across Louth, Meath & North Dublin to support our communities for this massive event, tying in with our not-for-profit ethos and role at the very heart of our communities.

“The Credit Union consistently aim to support community enhancing events and the Fleadh 2018 event in Drogheda is a unique opportunity to become part of a much wider initiative showcasing Drogheda and the surrounding areas as places of beauty, culture and go to tourist destinations. This is the first year in its history that the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann has come to County Louth and we have no doubt it will be a wonderful event to all to enjoy.”

Jennifer Brennan, CPS Procurement Director, Coca-Cola International Services added:“For over 40 years Coca-Cola International Services has played a significant role in supporting the local community here in Drogheda and so we are delighted to demonstrate our on-going commitment to Drogheda through the sponsorship of the Volunteer Programme for this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann!”

Whether attending for one day or the entire week, Drogheda and County Louth as a whole offer a wealth of attractions and the warmest of welcomes to visitors this August.

Tickets are now available to purchase for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 and the line-up of events and performances, which will take place every day from Sunday 12th through to Sunday 19th August 2018, is available to view at www.fleadhcheoil.ie

Follow us at https://twitter.com/fleadhcheoil; https://www.instagram.com/fleadhcheoil/

Credit Unions Join Forces To Be Main Sponsor of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018

4/27/2018

Drogheda Credit Union and Dundalk Credit Union have joined forces with a group of Credit Unions across Louth, Meath and North Dublin to fund the sponsorship of the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2018.

“ The Credit Union” has been announced as the main sponsor of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann which will take place this summer in Drogheda from 12th – 19th August. Both Drogheda and Dundalk Credit Unions celebrate their 50th anniversaries this year and have been strong supporters of Fleadh Drogheda from the outset, forming a collaborative group of Credit Unions that also includes Ardee Credit Union, Duleek Credit Union, Dunleer Credit Union and Progressive Credit Union from North Dublin to support and sponsor the biggest family festival in the country.

Sponsoring the massive community event that is Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann ties in with the Credit Unions’ not-for-profit ethos and role at the very heart of communities all over Ireland. “The Credit Union” consistently aims to make our communities a better place by supporting community enhancing events and initiatives and identified Fleadh Drogheda as a unique opportunity to become part of a much wider initiative showcasing Drogheda and County Louth as a place of beauty, culture and a go to tourist destination.

Tom Kiely, CEO Drogheda Credit Union said “Drogheda Credit Union are delighted to support our community on what is to be the biggest event ever hosted in the town of Drogheda.”

Commenting further on the announcement, Geraldine Gilsenan, Chairperson of Drogheda Credit Union Ltd said “We are excited to be on board as Main Sponsor of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 which will be hosted this year in Drogheda. We have strong ties with our communities so it is great to be able to engage with such a huge event. People in our Trim & Bettystown communities and across the counties of Louth, Meath and North Dublin are also gearing up for an amazing treat of seven days and nights of music, dancing, singing and craic.”

Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union said“Dundalk Credit Union are thrilled that “The Credit Union” will be the main sponsor of Fleadh Cheoil na Éireann 2018. The Fleadh is the biggest celebration of Irish music and culture and we are very excited to support this unique and memorable community event as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations. This is the first year in its history that the Fleadh has come to Co. Louth and we have no doubt it will be a wonderful event for all ages to enjoy.“
Welcoming the sponsorship deal the Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Joan Martin said, “Louth County Council are very much looking forward to working with “the Credit Union” as we prepare to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Drogheda. “The Credit Union” is a perfect fit as a main sponsor given its exemplary track record in supporting ordinary people, community initiatives and local organisations not just in Louth but across the country.”

This is the first time in many years that the Fleadh will be held on the east coast of Ireland and the local economy is set to benefit to the tune of €40million. 400,000 visitors are expected to attend the week-long festival in August, with 30% of people expected to travel from overseas to enjoy the festivities on offer. Today’s sponsorship announcement comes ahead of next week’s official launch of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, when a full program of events will be announced.

ENDS

Over 26,500 People Pass Through The RDS For The permanent tsb Ideal Home Show

4/24/2018

Last weekend saw the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show welcome 26,816 people into the RDS Simmonscourt across the three day event, resulting in an outstanding 98% visitor satisfaction rate.

With over 220 exhibitors showcasing their bespoke pieces, innovative products and interiors, the visitors were spoilt for choice across the weekend. Exhibitors reported strong sales during the weekend with a 97% satsfaction rate. Up to €100 Million worth of revenue is expected to be generated by exhibitors from their participation at this year’s spring show.

The scale of the sales success spanned across all sectors, from high tech home automation systems to beautifully hand crafted creations for all aspects of the home. DublinBeds.ie reported non-stop sales over the weekend whilst Matt Britton Carpets were inundated with enquiries for their beautiful range of floor coverings. Windows, doors, soft furnishings and décor were in high demand, as were insulations, energy systems and home security.

Ian Shipley, The New CEO of SDL Exhibitions Ltd, organisers of the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show, commented: “In the 23 years that The Ideal Home Show has been at the RDS it is great to see that this event not only continues to be by far the largest and most successful home improvement show in Ireland, but that it is the best loved show among home owners, with over 26,000 attending. Exhibitors responded with a 97% satisfaction rating when independently surveyed – one of the highest results in the history of the event.”

A range of familiar faces participated in the show, with Linda Barker of BBC’s Changing Rooms discussing her top tips on the Irish Times Home & Design Theatreas well as RTE’s Patricia Power and Declan O’Donnell who made a welcomed return to the show to answer building queries at the Irish Times Home & Design Theatre. Irish rugby players Tadhg Furlong, Jack McGrath and Sean Cronin were also in attendance over the weekend as they met fans at the AVIVA Smarthome on Sunday.

The Colourtrend Interior Design Forum was extremely popular amongst visitors, as it served as a place to garner inspiration for their own homes, with 7 creatively executed bespoke room sets on display by 7 wonderfully talented interior designers.
The show’s title sponsor permanent tsb had their team on hand to help with financial needs including mortgages, home insurance, current accounts, personal loans and much more.

This year’s spring show has been a resounding success, with exhibitors reporting increased sales across the board.

The permanent tsb Ideal Home Show returns to the RDS in autumn 2018. Log on to www.idealhome.ie for further information.

SIMI Motor Industry Q1 Report finds Change in Fuel-type Market Share and an increase in Average Car Emissions

4/24/2018

• 2018 forecast of new car sales 120,000
• New car registrations Q1 2018, totalled 71,805 -5.5% on Q1 2017
• New car Market share Q1 2018 mix, Diesel 56.3%, Petrol 37.5% and Petrol Electric Hybrid 5.4%
• Imported Used Car registrations Q1 2018, totalled 26,114 +9.44% on Q1 2017
• C02 emissions Q1 2018 increase +1.4%
• €754.7 Million Exchequer contribution from car sales Q1 2018 +0.2% on Q1 2017
• Cost of Motoring: Average price of a new car down -1.9%, Petrol prices down -0.7%, Diesel prices
-0.5% on March 2017, Insurance Costs in March 2018 -13.8% lower than March 2017. Average motor insurance costs in March 2018 +37% higher than March 2013.

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today issued the SIMI Quarterly Motor Industry Review Q1 2018.
Car registration figures for the first quarter of show that new car registrations are down -5.5% (71,805) compared to Q1 2017 (75,982). New Light Commercial Vehicle registrations (LCV) were up 5.3% (12,529) when compared to last year (11,900), while New Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HGV) have declined 11.2% (916) year to date. Imported Used Cars year to date are 9.5% (26,116) ahead of 2017 (23,862)
The Report shows that in the first quarter of 2018 new diesel registrations accounted for 56.3% of the market a decline from 66.7% on quarter one last year while petrol accounted for 37.5% of the total up from 29.6% on Q1 of 2017. Average CO2 emissions for new cars sold were 1.4% higher in the first quarter of 2018 when compared to a year earlier. The recent move away from diesel to petrol has resulted in average CO2 emissions now trending upwards again after a prolonged period of desirable decline.

The SIMI Report highlights a number of price decreases in the cost of motoring. The average price of a new car in Q1 2018 was 1.9% lower than a year earlier; interestingly consumers are spending more on higher specification cars with the average OMSP (Open Market Sales Price) up 4.1% on Q1 last year. The cost of Motor Insurance in March 2018 was 13.8% lower than it was a year earlier; however average Motor Insurance costs in March were 37% higher than in March 2013. While the cost of fuel decreased slightly in Q1 of 2018 with Petrol prices down 0.7% and Diesel prices down 0.5% last year.
For 2018 new car registrations are forecasted to reach around 120,000 which would represent a decline of 8.6% on 2017 while used car imports by contrast are projected to grow by around 15% to reach 107,470. Similar to last year Brexit related uncertainty looks set to continue, largely due to the uncertain performance of sterling and the impact of used imports from the UK.

Jim Power, Economist and author of the SIMI Report commented : “It is clear that Brexit uncertainty and used imports from the UK continue to exert pressure on the domestic new car market. Looking forward to the remainder of 2018, the other economic fundamentals that underpin new car registrations look set to remain positive. Used imports from the UK, though, are likely to remain a significant feature of the market and will undoubtedly displace new car sales once again. The surge in used imports from the UK effectively means that UK used car values are directly impacting on the values of domestic second-hand car stock, and this is making the cost of change to a new car more expensive which is also serving to undermine new car sales.”
Alan Nolan, Director General of SIMI further commented: “The further fall in new car sales this year really couldn’t have come at a worse time from an environmental viewpoint, just as we are beginning to benefit from a wider range of Electric and Hybrid cars, at the very start of our transition to 2045 when it is projected that the entire fleet should be Zero emitting. The fall in Irish used car values due to the huge increase in imported used car volumes, as a knock-on from the weakening of Sterling resulting from Brexit, has made the cost to trade-up more expensive and has slowed-down our new car sales.
It is crucially important that our used car values, and particularly diesels which represent 70% of our newest used cars, remain high, Brexit notwithstanding, as trade-in values will be key in ensuring that we can deliver on improving our future carbon and air quality performance from transport. Stable trade-in values will be crucial in relation to our ability to renew the national fleet and increase the penetration of Zero and Lower emitting cars. With all of this we remain confident that such new and nearly-new diesel used cars will continue to hold good values, as diesel remains the workhorse for business and those in rural Ireland. The reduction that we have seen in the diesel share of the new car market may potentially leave these in shorter supply for those buyers for whom they are the best transport and environmental option at present, which you would expect to have a positive upward pressure in relation to future values.”

Ends

Secondary Schools Initiative Launched As Part Of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Drogheda 2018

4/11/2018

Secondary school students in Drogheda are being invited to take centre stage as part of the celebrations in the run up to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018. The Youth Committee for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann as part of its ongoing Secondary Schools Project is inviting students to put their stamp on a major creative initiative.

In collaboration with The Men’s Shed in Drogheda, The Youth Committee is teaming up with local businesses to create small wooden sculptures of traditional Irish musical instruments. Youth Committee Chairperson Orla Brannigan is calling on schools to get involved by painting and decorating the sculptures, which will be displayed throughout the town during the week of the Fleadh from 12th – 19th August 2018.

Orla Brannigan said“The Secondary Schools Project aims to increase student’s awareness of Irish culture and tradition and encourage them to become actively involved in the celebrations for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann”.

The sculptures will be ready in the coming weeks, then the work on decoration can begin. Those interested in taking part are asked to contact orla.brannigan@ucdconnect.ie.

A Peak Through The Letterbox Of The permanent tsb Ideal Home Show

3/29/2018

A home is the heart of the family. It is where we entertain, socialise and ultimately where we spend a lot of our time. At this April’s permanent tsb Ideal Home Show you will hundreds of stands, thousands of ideas and the advice and inspiration to help you achieve a home that provides you with the comfort, space and sense of wellbeing that only Your Ideal Home can deliver.

The permanent tsb Ideal Home Show is set to return the the RDS Simmonscourt this Spring from April 20th to 22nd. The Autumn show was a great success with 26,425 visitors passing through the doors of the RDS throughout the weekend, resulting in an epic 98% visitor satisfaction rate. This year’s spring show will be flourishing with advice from home experts bursting with creative ideas and inspiration for your home, right on time for the annual spring clear out and rejuvenation.

Celebrity interior designer and television personality Linda Barker will act as this years Celebrity Ambassador and will be in Dublin to open this year’s spring show. She quickly became established as one of London’s most innovative decorative painters and interior design consultants and has undertaken many diverse interior design commissions, both in the private and corporate sectors, ranging from the decoration of numerous celebrity homes to the styling of entire restaurants and retail outlets. Linda is well respected in the industry and her ‘effortless chic’ style is commendable across all of her work.

In her latest endeavor, Linda presented ITV’s ‘The Home Game’ which adds to an already impressive amount of television and journalism work already under her belt. Linda famously presented BBC’s “Changing Rooms” with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and while Linda was with the show it reached its peak of popularity, attracting a UK audience of over ten million viewers per episode. Linda is a regular part of the design team on ITV’s 60 Minute Makeover series, and also appears regularly on This Morning and Lorraine, covering topics from interior design to health and fitness.

Our title sponsor permanent tsb are bringing new and better ways to bank to the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show. You can call in and talk with our team who will be on hand to help with all your financial needs including mortgages, home insurance, current accounts, personal loans and much more. Every house starts with a finance team that cares for you now and in the longterm. Visit the permanent tsb centre on Stand N60.

Kathtrina Furlong of Yours Personally Bespoke Interiors will be designing the Family Home Extension Showhouse at the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show this season. The transformation will include the ground floor rooms of the house complete with what you need to make a house a home, suitable for the modern family life. Her love of interiors began back when she took over her parent’s carpet and upholstery company, which she then turned into a bespoke furniture manufactuing company specialising in unique designs. Her stylish and specially tailored work will definitely inspire all attendees to release the inner beauty of their own homes and let their tastefully curated bespoke interiors shine in the quest to create their dream home and bring their vision to life. The Family Home Extension will be built by Martin Prunty of Constructplus, and the kitchen, bathroom and joinery materials will be supplied by Martin’s sister company, The Cabinet Shop.

One of the top desires of last season’s attendees was advice on interior design. Answering this call, Colourtrend will be bringing back the Colourtrend Interior Design Forum which will feature 7 specially designed and executed Roomsets. These roomsets will include a living room by designers ‘House Edit’, a dining room by ‘Nine Yards Design’, a bathroom by ‘Alena C Design’, a sitting room by ‘Lana Dullaghan Design’, a bedroom by ‘Drennan Interiors’, a garden room by ‘Re-Interiors’ and last but not least, a study designed by ‘Helena Cousins Design’. By visiting this forum, attendees will get a chance to see Colourtrend paints brought to life within a home setting and take inspiration from the creatively coordinated plush furnishings in each of the rooms.

With a heavy focus on home ideas and inspiration at the show, The Irish Times Home & Design Theatre will be at the centre of The Irish Times Home Interiors Fair catering for all needs as they ask leading creative experts to share their ideas and experiences with the home owners attending the show. Talks will take place discussing interior design and décor, new home design, extending your home, colour choices, lighting, use of that extra space that you’ve been meaning to make use of and even garden design. Some of the previous speakers include TV3’s Anna Daly, last seasons showhouse interior designer Collette Ward, Conor Pope of The Irish Times, Patricia Power previously of RTE’s Room To Improve, Declan O’Donnell of RTE’s Home of The Year and many many more.

With spring and summer on everyones mind as the cold spell begins to dispel, the garden advice clinic is not to be overlooked. Michael O’Reilly of The Garden Shop Belfast, along with a team of award winning garden designers will be on hand to dish out advice to the green-fingered attendees in exclusive 15 minute one-to-one garden design consultations, with the idea of turning your garden area into a modern, attractive and functional living and dining area that you, your family and your friends can enjoy all year round.

To accommodate the technology buffs at the show, The Mitsubishi Electric Home Advice Theatre is here to tell you what you have been missing out on in the technological side of the home. It is your source of first hand information about all the wonderful things that are happening with technology for the home. Presentations will include the latest information on how to use technology to improve your quality of life by having everything from entertainment to security to energy management at your fingertips. Visit the stand at the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show to find out more about their revolutionary eco-friendly Ecodan Air Source Heat Pumps Renewable Heating Technology. By simply using a Mitsubishi Electric Ecodan air source heat pump to provide domestic space heating and hot water, it is possible to greatly reduce CO2 emissions and your home’s running costs. Ideal for the Irish home and the cold weather!

Adding to the technology side of the home, the AVIVA SmartHome brings a two storey fully automated family home to the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show to demonstate how automation in the home instantly takes away the stress of managing home entertainment, security, heating, energy-saving, access and general day to day monitoring. The live demonstration will showcase how the modern technology can be accessed through a touch of a button via smart phone and can be used in every aspect of the home.

If you are looking to extend or renovate, the permanent tsb Ideal Home Show is the ultimate destination for getting the answers to the many questions you may have. There is currently a high volume of people opting to upgrade their existing homes in order to meet their changing lifestyle and family needs. More and more home owners are making the decision to go ahead with the projects they may have held back on for several years to avail of the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme and to increase the value of their homes in a buoyant market. The scheme allows home owners claim a credit on the tax liability of up to 13.5% of the cost of the project up to a limit of €30,000.

The Better Energy Home Scheme by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is also going to be at the permanent tsb Ideal home Show offering advice to home owners about how they can receive a €6,000 grant to enable them to upgrade their homes with energy efficient measures, which in turn reduces their energy use, costs and greenhouse emissions.

Not to forget about the first-time buyers in attendance of the show, Revenue will be on hand to supply information about the Help To Buy Scheme (HTB). This scheme helps first-time buyers with the deposit required to buy or build a new house or apartment. Once built or bought, the scheme will provide a refund of Income Tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) that the owner paid in Ireland over the previous 4 years.

Visit the RDS from April 20th to 22nd to discover YOUR Ideal Home.

Log on to www.idealhome.ie to secure your tickets and for further information on the weekend’s schedule.

Follow the below social channels for further updates:
Facebook @IdealHomeShowDublin
Instagram @idealhomedublin
Twitter @IdealHomeDublin

The Essential Guide To Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

3/21/2018

The Executive Committee for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is finalising a full programme of events in the coming weeks as the final touches are put in place ahead of the week-long festivities set to take place.
Significant progress has been made in recent weeks with event organisers receiving a further endorsement of their hard work last weekend, as Drogheda was awarded the honour of hosting Fleadh 2019 for the second consecutive year. A licence application was also submitted to Louth County Council this week, which is expected to give the official stamp of approval for the Fleadh to take place.

As excitement mounts for this year’s event, we have created an essential guide to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann:

What is Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann?
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the Olympics of Irish Traditional Music, Song, Dance and Gaeilge. It is a family festival that celebrates Irish Culture through a varied week-long programme of events.

When and where will it be held?
It will run from the 12th to the 19th of August 2018 in Drogheda, Co.Louth.

What sort of events can I expect?
Visitors can expect to enjoy a week long programme full of events including: music sessions, singing sessions, concerts, parades, competitions, workshops, céilithe, town walks, youth events, streets sessions, comhrá agus cupán tae and more.

How many people are expected to attend?
It is expected that 400,000 people will visit Drogheda over the course of the week.

How will the Fleadh benefit Drogheda and the surrounding region?
Drogheda is expected to reap huge economic benefits from the week-long event, with an estimated €40m expected to be generated for County Louth as a result of the festival. The Fleadh also offers a unique opportunity to showcase Drogheda and County Louth as a must-visit tourist destination to domestic and international audiences, ultimately encouraging return visits to the area following the event.

What is Scoil Éigse?
The Scoil Éigse is the educational aspect of the Fleadh, offering daily workshops catering for all traditional Irish instruments. Approximately 900 musicians will attend the Scoil Éigse workshops.

What is so special about the Fleadh?
The Fleadh is the pivotal event in every Traditional Irish Musicians annual calendar.

What is the best part of the Fleadh?
Everyone has a different 'best part' of the Fleadh. Make sure to be in Drogheda to discover what your favourite element is!

How can people volunteer to help?
Volunteers are key to the success of the Fleadh. Over 1,000 volunteers will get involved in a variety of roles across the week such as competition volunteers, street stewards, Fleadh ambassadors, catering volunteers, Green Fleadh volunteers and administration support. To get involved see fleadhcheoil.ie/volunteers

What sort of entertainment will there be for families?
The entertainment for families is endless, with events to suit all ages including a family gig rig, fun days in the parks, street entertainment, family orientated concerts and family music workshops, to name but a few.

For further information on this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann visit www.fleadhcheoil.ie
or follow us at https://www.facebook.com/fleadhcheoil.ie/
; https://twitter.com/fleadhcheoil
; https://www.instagram.com/fleadhcheoil/

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