From Ballymun regeneration to Floppy the dog

BEING involved with the birth and subsequent growth of Northside People’s West edition was an exciting period

Major issues dominating our pages included the proposed superdump for Mulhuddart (our first lead story in April 1995); the massive casino and stadium plan for the Phoenix Park Racecourse; and the ambitious plan to turn Finglas village into a bustling epicentre with apartments and major stores.

Remember any of them? Probably not, as

?? one by one

?? they fell by the wayside.

However, one that did get going was the regeneration of Ballymun, involving the demolition of over 2,800 apartments and relocating the residents to – new homes. It was a story we were the first to reveal.

What else do I remember most as editor? It’s hard to forget Floppy the dog, who lived on the hill at Tolka Valley Road in Finglas for six years, captivating locals and passers-by.

When the droopy-eared, chocolate-coated canine went missing, the office would be inundated with calls from concerned residents.

His final foray from the hill resulted in him having to be taken in by dog wardens. But thankfully, a new home

?? complete with girlfriend

?? was found for him at the Kildare Animal Foundation.

But most of all I remember how enjoyable it was to work at the paper and the great people I was lucky enough to meet during my 11 years there.

And there were those who dropped in, including a crocodile who one day roamed around the newsroom (long story); a python, I believe; a faith healer or two; promising musicians and artists; budding sports stars; politicians aplenty; and, of course, locals

?? our bread and butter

?? who had notable stories to tell and important issues to raise.