Speaking at the latest meeting of Louth County Council, Cllr John Reilly said there is currently no signage directing tourists or pilgrims to the shrine, despite signs being in place for other attractions in the region.
He noted that motorists travelling the route are informed of destinations such as the Cooley Peninsula as well as the horse and greyhound racing stadium in Dundalk.
“But if you want a spiritual experience and not a gambling experience, there are no signs for that either from the north or the south,” he said.
Cllr Emma Coffey noted that consultants had now been appointed to prepare an options paper for the development of the proposed ‘Brigid’s Way’ pilgrimage route. She described the project as “really exciting” and said it had strong potential to boost tourism in the area.
She also pressed for updates on the long‑discussed Táin Trail, saying adequate signposting would be an essential part of its development.
“I really think we need to look at this area, it is a hidden gem,” she said.
Cllr Coffey highlighted the internationally recognised status of the Táin Trail and said the route would benefit from the creation of an interpretive centre in the Knockbridge or Ardee area, given the many historic events associated with those locations.
She told the meeting she had been contacted by visitors from abroad who were surprised that no such centre existed to explore Louth’s history and heritage. She said she had visited a similar facility in Roscommon and described it as a “superb addition” to that county’s tourism offering.
Senior Executive Officer Olivia McCormack said the council was eager to highlight the legacy of St. Brigid, and her birthplace in Faughart.
“It is something we want to grow in the county, so we can look at more signage,” she said.
Ms McCormack noted that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has its own guidelines governing signage on national roads, but said the council could explore enhancing local signage within its own administrative area.
She confirmed that the options paper on Brigid’s Way is expected to be completed by the summer. The Táin Trail project, she added, involves coordination between five county councils and is continuing to progress.