Annually, a small delegation from Louth County Council travels to New York City to participate in the iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This tradition, which has lasted for many years, has sparked a debate among local councillors including Cllr. Kevin Callan and Cllr. Maeve Yore, as they hold differing perspectives on whether it is a worthwhile investment of taxpayers’ money.
Cllr. Kevin Callan (Cathaoirleach) is a strong advocate for this trip, arguing that it is a “vital opportunity” for Louth to boost its international profile. “Louth County Council is invited by the Louth Society every year, and it would be a terrible move if we were to decline the offer,” Callan shared. He also believes it is an important platform for promoting Louth as a prime tourist destination. The delegation meets with key trade groups such as the IDA and Enterprise Ireland while in New York. Callan describes this as critical for the county’s long-term economic growth.
“It’s better to do it all in one go rather than making numerous trips,” Callan explained. “This is a long-standing tradition, and it has brought numerous benefits, such as the American president visiting in the past four years, as well as the fact that the Irish ambassador is from Drogheda. It’s absolutely crucial for tourism and economic development, and it is now more important than ever.”
Callan emphasises that this trip is a segment of a larger plan for Louth’s growth and development. “This is just one tiny part of a much larger plan in place to promote the county,” he adds.
On the contrary, Cllr. Maeve Yore is adamantly opposed to this annual trip, a stance she has maintained for nearly a decade. “I’ve never agreed with it,” Yore vocalised. “The public raises their concerns about the cost of this trip every year, questioning if they are getting value for their money.”
Yore strongly believes that the council should focus on promoting Louth’s unique cultural assets without the need for international travel. “We can invite delegations here, to Louth, to experience our beautiful landscapes, rich heritage, and local talent firsthand,” she suggests.
The success of events such as the St Brigid’s Day Festival was highlighted by Yore. Local culture was showcased here, and this could serve as an alternative means of attracting attention from international tourists and industry professionals. She argues that Louth can achieve similar benefits by leveraging digital tools and social media to reach a global audience.
“I don’t believe we need to send a delegation across the world to get the message out, and social media also plays a huge role in reaching a global audience,” Yore stated. Yore also feels that meetings with trade organizations such as the IDA and Enterprise Ireland can take place in Ireland, making the trip to New York unnecessary.
In contrast, Callan sees the trip as a crucial opportunity to forge stronger international ties, especially with the growing significance of American-Irish relations. The council’s involvement in the parade, he argues, is a key element in ensuring Louth’s place on the international map.
As both councillors continue to voice their differing views, the debate over the New York trip reflects broader questions about the best use of taxpayer money and how local governments can most effectively promote regional development. While Callan sees the event as a valuable investment in the county’s future, Yore remains steadfast in her belief that Louth should focus on highlighting its strengths closer to home.
