‘Gut-punch’ – Drogheda Mayor critical of council stance on Boyne Camino

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Drogheda Mayor Michelle Hall has criticised Louth County Council for refusing to take the Boyne Camino into formal management, describing the decision as “a real gut‑punch” for volunteers and for the town’s tourism potential.

At the recent Drogheda Borough District meeting, Mayor Hall tabled a motion calling on the council to “take in charge” the national trail — a move she said is essential to guarantee its long‑term success.

She asked that Louth County Council take over the maintenance, installation of additional signs where needed, and upgrading of the trail and maps to include any new routes and “to appoint an officer to liaise with the volunteers of Boyne Valley Trails for collaborative purposes.”

In a written reply, David Hanratty of the council’s Operations and Environment Delivery section acknowledged the “value” of the Camino and the work of local volunteers but said the authority “does not currently have the resources required to take this trail in charge.”

“There is no dedicated staffing capacity to manage ongoing maintenance, install additional signage, upgrade mapping, or provide a liaison officer as described,” he stated. He added that while the council would “continue to support the initiative within existing constraints,” any formal takeover would require new funding and additional staff — “currently not available.”

Mayor Hall said the response was “extremely frustrating” for the volunteers who have developed a “really successful Camino” that attracts thousands of walkers each year and has become the most‑requested attraction at Drogheda Tourist Office for the past three years.

“Tourism is going to be crucial to Drogheda’s revitalisation,” she said, stressing that ongoing maintenance — including signage on national roads — is essential. “When we are looking at something that is not just a national, but an international trail, the council should be fighting to support the groups.”

She praised the Boyne Camino volunteers for giving “phenomenal amounts of time” as well as fundraising, and said she had contacted the council’s Chief Executive on the issue. She was “happy to report” it has now been referred to the tourism section.

“That is a big win, but we don’t have a clear answer yet,” she said, noting that the Táin Trail, St Brigid’s Trail and the Camino are expected to be treated similarly. “But we still don’t know what that means, so I will be seeking more clarification.”

Mayor Hall argued that having the Camino taken in charge would help Drogheda build on its success, including increasing local accommodation capacity. She called on the council to be “an equal partner” in supporting the trail.

The motion was seconded by Cllr Declan Power, who commended the volunteers for providing a resource that benefits tourism, health and fitness. Cllr Pio Smith also supported the proposal and asked the council to outline the specific staffing and financial requirements for taking the route in charge.

Cllr Anne Marie Ford said the Camino would become an even more valuable asset if Drogheda Port succeeds in attracting cruise ships to the town. “Having a facility like this brings the history of our county alive,” she said.

Cllr Paddy McQuillan described the Camino as “a very important part of the social fabric of Drogheda,” saying it is one of the town’s “great success stories.” He expressed disappointment with the council’s response, adding: “Everything with the council seems to come down to money.”

Cllr Eric Donovan also backed the motion, saying any enhancement of the amenity would be “greatly welcomed.” Living beside the trail himself, he said he sees daily the “positive reality” of visitors from around the world using the route.