Latest news with #KieranKehoe
Irish Independent
03-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Meath County Council's podcast returns for a second season to promote transparency
The council has confirmed that production is underway for Season two of its acclaimed podcast series Local Lens, with new episodes expected to drop by the end of 2025. The podcast, which first launched in February 2025, offers listeners a closer look at the wide range of public services provided by the council — from housing and economic development to road maintenance and climate action. With interviews featuring Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe, the series aims to increase transparency and public awareness around the council's work. 'Season one of Local Lens just scratched the surface of the vast array of services we provide here at Meath County Council,' Mr Kehoe said. 'We want to continue to be as transparent as possible about the work we do, sharing as much information as possible in the most accessible ways we can.' Season one featured six half-hour episodes and has already racked up over 2,100 downloads and more than 270 listening hours — the equivalent of nearly 12 days of continuous listening. The show has also made its mark on the charts, peaking at number two on the Apple Podcasts Government list and ranking as high as 188 among all podcasts on Spotify in Ireland. Meanwhile Communications Manager Ailish Shaw invites the public to help shape the next season. 'We believe that through Local Lens, we can highlight the essential services we provide and engage with our residents in meaningful ways. We encourage everyone to share their thoughts and suggestions on the topics they'd like to hear more about.' The reach of Local Lens has extended well beyond Irish borders, with downloads coming in from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, India, Portugal, France, and Sri Lanka.
The Journal
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Journal
Twelve years after it was first rejected, the Slane bypass has been given planning permission
THE SLANE BYPASS has officially received planning permission, paving the way for a new 3.5km dual carriageway in Meath. Meath County Council's planning application for the N2 Slane Bypass and Public Realm Enhancement Scheme has been approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála. The project includes a 3.5km dual carriageway around Slane with a combined footway/cycleway and a 258-metre-long bridge. The works will also make several public realm enhancements in Slane village and improved traffic management measures and works on the N51 between the proposed bypass and the centre of the village. Advertisement Meath County Council Cathaoirleach Wayne Harding said the council is 'absolutely delighted with today's news as this vitally important project will address the transport needs of residents, businesses and visitors in the village of Slane and in the wider strategic road network within the vicinity'. 'Aside from significantly improving road safety in the area, this scheme will remove the bottleneck in the village, reducing traffic congestion and moving more heavy goods vehicles out of Slane, making the air much cleaner for all residents,' he said. The council's chief executive Kieran Kehoe said said that 'access to a more connected transport network that includes more reliable public transport, improved facilities for active travel and a new off-street car-park will boost the local economy within Slane and enable businesses to flourish'. Along the bypass, there will be a 258-metre bridge crossing the River Boyne Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Plans for a Slane bypass have been in the pipeline for years. In 2012, An Bord Pleanála refused planning permission for a bypass, saying at the time that the road would be located close to the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Irish Independent
09-05-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Municipal district awards presented to over 20 recipients in Meath
Meath County Council has announced 24 recipients of various Municipal District Awards, which honour and recognise the achievements of individuals and groups across each municipal district. The award winners were nominated by the elected members in the districts: Ashbourne, Kells, Laytown/Bettystown, Navan, Ratoath and Trim. Chief executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe thanked the individuals and groups for their work: 'Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we deeply appreciate your commitment. 'Please rest assured that the council stands ready to support you in any way possible as you continue your important work.' The list of winners can be found here: Ashbourne: Kells: Laytown/Bettystown: Tommy Caraher and Malcom Halpenny (Athletes) Duleek Revival Programme Duleek First Responders Laytown Wave Warriors Navan: Charlie O'Connor (Darts Player) Youth Work Ireland Meath Nichola Sheridan (Athlete) Cúltur Migrants Centre Ratoath: Delia and Pat Heneghan (Philanthropists) Swainstown Farm Ratoath Athletics Club Mens Shed Ratoath Trim: Sona Sásta Meals on Wheels Project South Meath Social Economy Ciara Duffy, Hannah Mulligan and Majella Martin (Scoil Mhuire) Tomas Novak (Elder Tree Project) Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach Councillor Sharon Tolan said: "This event is not just a mere gathering; it is a powerful reminder of the significance of our collective efforts and the vibrant community spirit that thrives here in Meath." The winners received a certificate for civic recognition at Buvinda House, Navan on Wednesday, May, 7.
