Dundalk traffic changes for Dowdallshill Blessing of the Graves

Louth County Council has issued details of arrangements for this year’s Annual Blessing of the Graves at St Patrick’s Cemetery, Dowdallshill, which will take place on Sunday, 19 July at 3pm.

A number of access restrictions and traffic management measures will be in place on the day to ensure the ceremony can proceed safely and accommodate the large number of people expected to attend.

To facilitate the safe and orderly management of the event, the following arrangements and restrictions will be in place:

Cemetery Closure

• The cemetery will be closed from 11.30am to 1.00pm to allow for final preparations.
• Members of the public are kindly requested to vacate the cemetery before 11.30am.

Access Arrangements

• The cemetery will reopen at 1.00pm.
• No vehicular access will be permitted after reopening, except for Blue Badge holders.
• Access for Blue Badge holders will be via the North Gate, between 1.00pm and 2.00pm, as per arrangements in previous years.
• The North Gate will close at 2.00pm sharp, after which no further vehicle entry, including Blue Badge holders, will be permitted. Members of the public are asked to adhere to these times.

Ceremony and Traffic Management

• The Blessing of the Graves ceremony will commence at 3.00pm sharp.
• Following the ceremony, all vehicles will exit via the North Gate, turning right only onto the Old Newry Road.
• Allow additional time for travel and parking due to the large attendance expected.

Parking and Public Safety

• An Garda Síochána will oversee traffic management on the day.
• Attendees are requested to follow the directions of Gardaí and stewards at all times.
• Consideration should be given to local residents when parking vehicles in the area.
• Attendees are requested not to obstruct roads, entrances, gates, footpaths or designated emergency access routes at any time.
• Parking restrictions and relevant traffic legislation will be strictly enforced.

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Louth County Council further say: “To support the comfort and convenience of visitors attending the ceremony, portable toilet facilities will be available throughout the cemetery, including accessible units to accommodate wheelchair users and those with mobility difficulties.

“As the event will take place outdoors, attendees are advised to:

• Dress appropriately for prevailing weather conditions.
• Wear suitable footwear.
• Bring their own holy water if they wish to bless the graves of loved ones.

“Louth County Council thanks the public for their cooperation and assistance in ensuring the event can be conducted safely and respectfully for all those attending. For further information regarding access arrangements, please contact Louth County Council at 042 933 5457.”