Frustration grows in Louth over delays to St. Oliver Plunkett signage
New signage celebrating Drogheda’s pivotal role in the story of St. Oliver Plunkett should not be delayed any longer, the monthly meeting of Drogheda Borough District heard.
Cllr. Pio Smith sought an update on signs commemorating St. Oliver Plunkett being installed in Drogheda.
Speaking at the June Borough District meeting, he said councillors had agreed last year to signs being erected to promote the links between Oliver Plunkett and the town.
“But we haven’t seen any yet, despite an increase in visitors coming to see the shrine,” said Cllr. Smith.
The national Shrine to St. Oliver Plunkett is located in St. Peter’s Church on West Street in Drogheda, a major tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world.
Cllr. Smith had made calls for new signage in July 2025, following celebrations in Drogheda to mark the 400th anniversary of the birth of St. Oliver Plunkett.
He indicated then that “Welcome to Drogheda” signs should feature information on the town as “home of the shrine to St. Oliver Plunkett” and asked for these signs to be approved for use by Louth County Council.
The calls were widely supported by Borough councillors, who agreed on the potential for “religious tourism” to boost visitor numbers to the town.
Council officials told the June meeting heard the signage is being progressed, but an update would be provided to members in due course.