Tara to Newgrange 'Midsummer Walk' to highlight plight of homelessness

Plans are well underway to stage 'A Midsummer Walk for the Homeless 2019' which is due to take place on Saturday 22nd June with the event aimed at generating funds for the Fr Peter McVerry Trust. 

The brainchild of dentist Dr Conor Irwin,  and his wife Paula, this is the third year the event has been held and so far it has generated €27,000 for the McVerry Trust. 
While some of those taking part in the walk will be opting for the scenic route from Tara to Newgrange, others will participating in the shorter but no less scenic route along the Ramparts beside the Boyne from Navan to Slane. 
"All of us are fully aware about the ongoing homeless crisis in Ireland. You only have to walk around any large town or city to see it evident in every doorway and street corner," commented Dr Irwin. "Whatever the reason for this huge problem or the personal circumstances of the people involved the issue of homelessness just cannot be ignored. There but for the grace of God go us or one of our loved ones.
"‘A Midsummer Walk for The Homeless ‘ is our way of helping. Each midsummer we walk from the historic Hill of Tara to Newgrange," he added. "We would be delighted if you would consider joining us on this walk and help support Peter McVerry. You might also kindly share the event with your friends?"
The full 32km walk starts from the Hill of Tara at 10am and proceeds to Newgrange. Then there is the shorter option which includes a scenic stroll along the banks of the Boyne from Navan to Newgrange with some opting to end their walk at Slane.   
"We walk into Navan then along the river Boyne to Slane .The section from Navan to Slane is probably the best kept secret in Meath," added Conor Irwin.  "Every year our walkers are stunned by its magnificence. Some people prefer the shorter walk from Navan to Newgrange. This 'half walk' option is about 22km and takes about four hours (Navan to Slane is about 2.5 hours). The shorter walk leaves from the Ramparts, Navan at 12 noon.
"There are water stations and toilet facilities along the way with refreshments and a hot cup of tea to celebrate on completion!" Dr Irwin added. 
"We have limited bus links from Newgrange back to Navan and Tara but if you can arrange your own transport that would be much appreciated."
The cost of taking part in the 'A Midsummer Walk for the Homeless' is €50 for a full walk (Tara to Newgrange / Bru Na Boinne ) and €30 for the half walk ( Navan to Newgrange )
"Please note that every penny raised will be going to The Peter McVerry Trust. All expenses incurred are fully sponsored so we pass on 100% of proceeds to PMV. For this reason, we have decided not to print t-shirts. If you are interested in sponsorship we would be delighted to hear from you!"
See Facebook 'A Midsummer Walk for the Homeless 2019' or www.decoycountycottages.ie to register online.