Defence Forces May Be Called to Drogheda to Protect Council Staff During Bonfire Clear-Up - 16/06/2026

Concerns are mounting in Drogheda over the build-up of bonfire materials in residential areas, with calls for additional support to help protect council staff tasked with clearing illegal dumping sites.The issue was raised at this month's meeting of Louth County Council, where councillors voiced alarm over the growing stockpiles of pallets, tyres and other materials on waste ground between Hill View and Rathmullen Park. The site, which had been cleared only last week, has reportedly filled up again.Labour Councillor Pio Smith described the situation as an emergency, warning that fires are already being lit close to homes and that the problem is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Meanwhile, Green Party Councillor Marianne Butler has suggested the council consider seeking assistance from the Defence Forces to ensure staff can carry out clean-up operations safely.Councillor Pio Smith joined us on The Agenda this morning to talk to us some more about this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.