Pride of Place Judges Experience True Community Spirit Across Louth
County Louth rolled out the red carpet on Thursday, 13 August 2026, welcoming the judging panel of the prestigious IPB Pride of Place initiative—an all-island scheme run by Co-operation Ireland in partnership with IPB Insurance that honours outstanding civic dedication, inclusivity, and local authority cooperation.
To fly the flag for the county this year, Louth County Council put forward two exceptional entries: the Dundalk Youth Centre in the Youth Initiative category, and the Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project under the Age Friendly Communities banner.
The packed itinerary kicked off with in-depth multimedia presentations from both groups, giving the panel a clear window into the daily impact these projects have on local residents. Following lively panel discussions, the judges embarked on local site visits to experience the initiatives firsthand.
Local Leaders Praise Community Champions
Welcoming the national delegation to the county, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Dolores Minogue, highlighted the immense dedication shown by local volunteers.
“Pride of Place is fundamentally about acknowledging the individuals and organisations who effect meaningful change through unwavering civic spirit,” Cllr Minogue stated. “Both the Dundalk Youth Centre and the Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project showcase how local action elevates quality of life and builds inclusion across all generations. They represent the very pinnacle of County Louth.”
🌟 Spotlight on Louth’s 2026 Representatives
- Ardee Garden Care and Repair Project (Age Friendly Communities): Praised by Ardee Municipal District Cathaoirleach, Cllr Jim Tenanty, as an indispensable lifeline helping older residents maintain independence in their own homes through exemplary volunteer dedication.
- Dundalk Youth Centre (Youth Initiative): Commended by Dundalk Municipal District Leas Chathaoirleach, Cllr John Reilly, for providing a secure, nurturing environment filled with developmental opportunities for young people across the area.
Looking Ahead to the National Finals
Echoing the praise, Louth County Council Chief Executive David Conway expressed immense pride in how both teams showcased their endeavours, highlighting the sheer strength of grassroots cooperation throughout the county.
Paula Keenan, Senior Executive Officer with the council, added that both groups displayed exceptional passion, innovation, and professionalism throughout the rigorous evaluation process.
The winners of the 2026 IPB Pride of Place competition will be officially unveiled at the national awards ceremony scheduled for October 2026.
To learn more about the initiative, visit the official website at www.prideofplace.ie.
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