The Drogheda Port Company proudly announces the successful conclusion of the 2024 Drogheda Sail Training Bursary, which saw two groups of ten young trainees, aged 14 to 17, embark on transformative weeklong voyages. Participants from the Drogheda Grammar School, St Marys Diocesan Secondary School, St Olivers Community College, St Colmcille’s GAA, LMETB and the Boomerang Youth Café took to the sea, gaining invaluable skills and experiences that will remain with them forever.
The culmination of this year's program was marked by a celebratory presentation hosted by Drogheda Port Company last Friday 14th of June at Harbourville. Trainees, their families, community members, corporate sponsors and stakeholders gathered to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of these young sailors. Directors of Sail Training Ireland, Mr. Mossy Shanahan and Ms. Willimien Phelan also travelled to Drogheda to partake in the event.
Gerard Deegan, Chairman of Drogheda Port Company, addressed the assembled guests, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in fostering the development of youth. "The Drogheda Sail Training Bursary is more than just a sailing program," said Mr. Deegan. "It equips our young people with essential life skills, including teamwork, leadership, and resilience. We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by our trainees and the support from our community." Mr. Deegan added, “The bursary scheme, now in its eleventh year, is made possible by the strong support of its corporate sponsors, Irish Cement, Louth County Council, East Terminal Limited, Boskalis Irish Dredging and Drogheda Port Company and we are grateful for their continued support.”
The trainees, under the guidance of skipper Peter Scallan and his wonderful crew, navigated challenging waters, learned the intricacies of sailing, and developed a strong sense of camaraderie. These voyages not only introduced them to maritime skills but also encouraged personal growth and confidence through the medium of sailing.
The Drogheda Sail Training Bursary is part of the Port Company's ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement. By providing these opportunities, Drogheda Port Company aims to inspire the next generation and highlight the rich maritime heritage of the region.
The success of the 2024 program is a testament to the collaboration between the Port Company, Sail Training Ireland, corporate sponsors, local schools, and youth development organisations. This partnership ensures that young people from diverse backgrounds can benefit from such enriching experiences.
For more information about the Drogheda Sail Training Bursary and future initiatives, please contact:
Nessa Lally,
Drogheda Port Company 041 983 8378 nessalally@droghedaport.ie
Or visit the website www.sailtrainingireland.com