03-02-2021

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Rían's 200km charity challenge

Louise's MND fund-raiser appeal

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Dundalk kick-off against Rovers Page 11

Wednesday, 3rd February, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 5 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Community hero award for Eric

Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

Dundalk man Eric Beggs has been declared a community hero for his fundraising efforts over the last fifteen years for the Fighting Blindness charity. Eric appeared on the Late Late Show on Friday evening having been chosen as one of AXA’s Community Heroes and the Lisdoo man was given €20,000 for his beloved charity Fighting Blindness and €5,000 for himself.

Kevin Whelan, CEO of Fighting Blindness said, “Eric Beggs is an outstanding volunteer and an inspiration. We nominated him as an AXA Community Hero as we believe it is the perfect way to celebrate his illustrious fundraising career and thank him for his hard work and dedication. He is a deserving winner to say the very least. The money he has raised over the years has helped us to continue our mission to find a cure for blindness.”

Continued on Page 2

Anger in North Louth following spate of break-ins LOUTH Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has said there is “a lot of anger” following a spate of break-ins in the Rathcor area.

“A gang targeted a number of properties and stole various amounts of expensive items. The gang also attempted to break into at least another ten to 15 houses without success,” said Cllr Watters.

“I would ask you all to check your property as some people have only found out they were targeted recently.”

Eric Beggs on The Late Late Show.

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

Eric Beggs is a community hero

Continued From Page 1 Eric has organised various charity events such as Chapel gate collections, quizzes and sponsored walks with the Cooley Trek being the main source of fundraising each year. He was diagnosed with a retinal degenerative condition called retinitis pigmentosa (RP) which unfortunately can’t be cured. Eric first started having difficulties with his sight in his early 20s and it has progressed to the stage that now in his sixties he is completely blind. He has been a keen supporter of the charity ‘Fighting Blindness’ and is a huge admirer of the work they do around the country.

“It was a grand surprise to get that award. It was very exciting and fantastic for the charity,” said Eric.

AXA launched the competition last July and asked people across the country to nominate their local hero.

Fighting Blindness nominated Eric for his dedication to the charity including raising €160,000 for the charity over 15 years through various fundraising activities.

Over the years, he has completed treks, tandem cycles, Easter egg hunts, church gate collections and more to raise money.

“As I said on the Late Late Show, Louth might be the smallest county in Ireland but

the people are the most generous with their time and their money,” said Eric.

“Ryan Tubridy was a nice chap. I thought I would be more nervous but I wasn’t, maybe because there was a small number of people there.

“Fair play to Axa. I take my hat off to them. They did a fantastic job and I’d like to thank my wife, Ann. I’d be lost without her. She’s been a great help to me and other people in the family too. And I’d also like to give a special mention to Colin Moran who has done Trojan work for Fighting Blindness.”

For more information or to donate please visit www. fightingblindness.ie.

Eric Beggs outside the Late Late Show studio.

Anger in Three arrests made at St Brigid’s Shrine North Louth following spate of St Brigid’s Peace Rainbow break-ins Three people were arrested and a number of others issued with Fixed Penalty Notices on Sunday as a number of Gardaí responded to reports of a mass gathering at St Brigid’s shrine in Faughart.

There have been reports that many of the people

involved in the gathering were anti-Covid restriction activists but this has not been confirmed by gardaí.

According to the official garda statement two men in their 60’s and 40’s as well as a woman in her 20’s were arrested for refusing to provide their names and

addresses when asked.

“On Sunday 31st January 2021 shortly before 2pm, following reports, Gardaí attended at a car park at Upper Faughart, Dundalk where a group of approximately 30 people had gathered in contravention of current Health

regulations.

“A number of Fixed Penalty Notices were issued to those present. Two men aged in their 60s and 40s and a woman in her 20s were arrested under the Health Act, 1947, having refused to provide Gardaí with names and addresses.

“They were taken to Dundalk Garda Station and later released having been charged to appear before the Dundalk District Court at a later date. A file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions,” read the statement.

Cllr Antoin Watters.

LOUTH Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has said there is “a lot of anger” following a spate of break-ins in the Rathcor area.

“A gang targeted a number of properties and stole various amounts of expensive items. The gang also attempted to break into at least another ten to 15 houses without success,” said Cllr Watters.

“I would ask you all to check your property as some people have only found out they were targeted recently.”

He added: “There were lots of tools, PlayStations, bikes and other valuables taken by the thieves.”

“I’d ask people in the area to please check on elderly neighbours. We must keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report anything to the Gardaí. No matter how small, as it could prove crucial.

“Also continue to use @AlertCooley who help to raise awareness. Times are bad enough and our Callum O’Brennan, Jason Kelly and David Moore bringing St Brigid’s Cross to life in Rehabcare Carroll Village with their colourful and symbolic creation. St Brigid’s day took place on Monday and traditionally marks the beginning of spring. friends and neighbours don’t need this hassle.”

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Busy start to year for Dundalk Tidy Town volunteers

Dundalk Tidy Towns have spent the last few weeks tidying up the town and throughout January they have filled over 60 bin bags full of rubbish in an attempt to spruce up the roads and pavements of our town.

According to Helen Byrne who is the chairperson of Dundalk Tidy Towns vol-

unteers have never seen so much rubbish on the streets at this time of year.

“We were a bit taken aback when we began our big clean up at the start of January as there was just so much rubbish all over the place but we allocated certain patches to people and we all got stuck in and managed to get rid of a lot of the rub-

bish around the town.

We have noticed a lot of face masks on the roads and pavements and that has obviously been a big factor over the last nine or so months since Covid-19 arrived. I personally filled three bags last week in an area from Woodies roundabout to the entrance to Bay Estate and a week later it’s almost as

bad again. It can be disheartening but you just have to keep going and try doing the best that you can.

“I think one of the reasons that there is more rubbish than ever is because people are at home more because of lockdown and their black and green bins are filling more quickly. They may be overflowing and with

the rain and wind litter can blow all over the place which is one of the reasons I believe it is so bad at the moment,” explained Helen.

“We have been on to the council asking for more bags and I know they are aware of how bad things are at the moment. I believe they are doing a cleaning blitz around

the town over the next week or two and that will be very welcomed.

Our adopt a patch initiative which involves asking residents to try and clean the area outside and around their house has been a huge success and more people than ever have been getting involved and offering to help us which is great to see.

I think a lot of people

have a bit more spare time now due to lockdown so maybe are able to do a bit more to keep their areas clean.

I know we have the judges coming to town in May for the annual tidy towns competition so we have plenty of work to do between now and then to ensure we make as good an impression as possible,” added Helen.

Helen Byrne.

Rían gets on his bike for Local hauliers to experience Maria Goretti Foundation delays due to COVID testing

Big-hearted Rían McCrystal will cycle 200km this month in aid of the Maria Goretti Foundation in Lordship. The respite Centre in Lordship provides a much-needed service to parents with children who need specialist care in a home environment for children with intellectual disability, autism or physical and sensory disabilities.

Rían, who hails from the Point Road couldn’t miss his love of cycling with his dad Bryan one of the finest triathletes in the country while aunty Eve who is a current national champion has achieved huge success on her bike not least world and paralympic medals.

Rían will endeavour to cycle 200km on his bicycle during the month of February and has set up a gofundmepage with all proceeds raised going to the Maria Goretti Foundation in Lordship. As dad Bryan explains the idea was all Rian’s as he wanted to do something to help others during lockdown.

“Yeah, Rian loves

Rían McCrystal. being on the bike and is very active so he thought to himself why not try and raise some money for a local charity by setting a target in February for himself. We decided to go with 200km during the month which works out at about 7km a day which is no bother to him. I’m from Jenkinstown originally and we have a cycling track out there which we built ourselves so Rían loves to spend time out there on the bike. Being from out that direction I know the great work that goes on in the Maria Goretti

Foundation and so we decided to choose them as the beneficiaries of our fundraising,” explained Bryan.

As Rían's proud mother Karen explains the target of €1000 set

by Rían has almost been reached already with the total standing at €800 on Monday afternoon.

“Rían was absolutely thrilled when he woke up on Monday morning to see how much he had raised already. We want to thank everybody who has donated so far and the money is going to a great organisation. We are so blessed to have

two healthy children and we know how much great work they do in Maria Goretti to help and support parents whose children need specialist care. They do phenomenal work up there and like all charities they are struggling to raise funds because of Covid. We are delighted Rían has took on this challenge and hopefully we can hand over a nice cheque to Maria Goretti foundation next month,” stated Karen.

You can find Rían's charity page by searching 'Rían's 200km Challenge' on GoFundMe.

New requirement for all commercial vehicle drivers travelling on ferries from Ireland to France came into effect from last Thursday.

Hauliers travelling from Ireland to France must now have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test following a decision by the French Government.

All commercial vehicle drivers (Heavy Goods Vehicle drivers, Lights Goods Vehicle drivers or Coach drivers) travelling from Ireland to France must have evidence of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test to carry out their journey.

Proof of a negative test result will be required to board ferries and to enter France.

According to local man David O’Hare who works for Dundalk firm Sean Moriarty Transport Ltd these new measures will inevitably slow down transit times for an industry which is still coming to terms with delays relating to Brexit.

“These new covid tests for drivers will unfortunately slow down transit times and there

Moriarty transport among local hauliers facing more delays due to covid tests

will likely be more delays on top of what we have already due to the paperwork involved in transporting goods post Brexit. We’re not exactly sure how it’s going to work and how long it will take for our drivers to get tested but I’m sure we will find all that information out in the coming days,” explained David.

A lot of transport firms have actually been pretty quiet in January up to maybe this week as a lot of people were stockpiling before Christmas and buying twice what they might

Free St Brigid online event this weekend

The start of February is traditionally a time of new hope and possibility. The ancient celebration of Imbolc, starting on Brigid’s Day, ushers in brighter days to come. For almost 30 years Irish peace and justice organisation Afri has been celebrating this time at the annual Féile Bríde event in Kildare. The event goes online this year mean-

ing it’s more accessible than ever. Organisers are especially keen to extend an invitation to the people of Louth.

The virtual event, which is free to attend, takes place from 3-5pm this coming Saturday February 6th and features a combination of inspirational talks, poetry and music, combined with the livestreaming of the annual

tree-planting ceremony.

Afri coordinator Joe Murray says he’s looking forward to the event and expecting several hundred attendees from throughout Ireland and abroad. “We’re surprised by the huge volume of registrations already this year. It feels like people are particularly hungry for hope in these times and that is understandable given

all that is going on in the world. February is a time of renewal for people and planet and Féile Bríde is a great opportunity to step back, reflect, and to refuel and uplift our spirits.”

The host for the event is campaigner and author of Hitching for Hope Ruairí McKiernan and he will be speaking on the theme of ‘new hope’. Other

speakers and performers include poet Grace Wells, Sinéad Fortune from the Gaia Foundation in the UK, Karen Jeffares and Gareth Conlon from the Síolta Chroí nature education centre, musician Dee Armstrong from Kila, direct provision campaigner Sikhulekile Ruth Ndlovu, poet Pete Mullineaux, and musician RoJ Whelan.

The Feíle Bríde online event is part of a weeklong series of events organised by the Brigidine Sisters and Cáirde Bríde through the Solas Bhríde centre in Kildare.

The Afri Féile Bríde event takes place from 3-5pm on Saturday February 6th. Registration is free and information and booking is available at www.afri.ie.

usually buy because of fears of receiving goods post Brexit. However, the last week or so has seen a big increase in goods being transported and we are now seeing evidence of delays.

Before Brexit kicked in we could guarantee a two day service but since the new year we are talking two weeks on average to get items to their destination.

Thankfuly this has been improving in the last 10-12 days with th etransit time reducing to 5-6 working days.

We hope to reduce this further in the coming

weeks as the customs complexities improve.

“There is a lot of extra paperwork and with that comes extra cost and although we ultimately try and soak up as much of that cost as we can unfortunately we have to pass on some extra charges to our customers. Thankfully we were very prepared for Brexit when it came in as we invested a lot of time and money to ensure all our staff were up to speed to make the service we provide as smooth as can possibly be,” stated David.

Body recovered from sea in Blackrock

A body was recovered from the sea at Blackrock on Sunday following a multi agency operation. The body of a man in his 30’s was recovered just before 10am following a search operation. The Irish Coast Guard helicopter and local gardaí were involved in the search in Blackrock.

The deceased was taken to Louth County Hospital where a post-mortem was due to take place by the coroner. Gardaí say they are treating the incident as a personal tragedy.

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Dentist welcomes Dundalk man serves up a winning cookbook and plenty of positivity involvement in Covid-19 vaccine

A LOCAL dentist has welcomed the decision that dentists are likely to be involved in the delivery of vaccinations against Covid-19.

Tom Rodgers from Blackrock Dental Surgery told the Dundalk Leader that most dentists would be happy to help.

“It makes sense to include dentists in the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccination programme,” said Tom. According to Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, dentists are likely to be involved in the delivery of vaccinations against Covid-19.

The Dáil heard that Mr Donnelly asked his department to put in place an agreement with the dentists.

“Dentists are used to giving injections every day and are very familiar with medical emergencies and protocols

Tom Rodgers. against Covid-19,” said Tom. “As far as I’m aware the plan is to have dentists taking part in the roll-out in mass vaccination centres rather than in their own surgeries.”

Mr Donnelly said a deal is in place with pharmacists who will be part of the roll-out, but exactly when they will become involved is an operational decision for the HSE and not a political one.

During this turbulent past year, a Dundalk man has been mastering his culinary skills and lifting the spirits of the members and staff in his RehabCare centre in Dundalk.

John Moore says: ‘I love cooking, I always have’. Once the pandemic hit, John made it his mission to produce a new cookbook, as a tribute to his late father and in order to share his favourite recipes with family and friends throughout the town.

‘During the major lockdown in the spring, I said I wasn’t going to be sitting in and doing nothing. I’m never a negative person. I put my head together and I came up with this idea myself.’

With his positive outlook on life, John says: ‘For me, cooking is very relaxing. It’s important to have good, healthy food on the table. I have 19 recipes in total - smoothies, soups, main courses,

desserts and a Victoria sponge cake.’

John has been attending the RehabCare Quayside Resource centre since 2001.

Speaking about the RehabCare community, John says: ‘I have lots of friends in RehabCare and they’re all very proud of me. I used to go to the centre 5 days a week, learning reception skills, computer skills, cooking, art and we had the cinema club.

When Covid happened, I had to stay at home for a while but I was in touch with the staff virtually, they were on the phone to me. I’m there three days a week now which is great. They were absolutely blown away when they heard I had made this cookbook.’

Explaining the inspiration behind his achievement, John says: ‘I got my love of cooking from my mother Geraldine. She was chief food-taster.

John Moore with his cookbook.

It was the best job I could give her. And I made the book in memory of my father, Oliver Moore. He died in 2013. I was very close to him. He would be awful proud of me.

He knew my love for cooking and my interest in cooking, and

it’s something that he would have definitely wanted me to do.’

The cookbook’s popularity has spread, and he now counts renowned chef Nevin Maguire as a fan. John says: ‘As a surprise, my friends sent a copy of my book to Nevin

Maguire, and he sent me back a signed copy of his own book, and he said mine was brilliant.

I was delighted.’

Speaking about his choice of recipes, John says: ‘There’s a salmon dish and I love that.

It’s called ‘Salmon in Creamy Cucumber Sauce’, it only takes 14 minutes. You can be sure that all of these recipes are tried and tested and very easy to make.

There’s no comparison to home cooking.’ The mouth-watering book was compiled with colourful photos by local Dundalk photographer Andrew Browne and was designed and printed by GoCreate.

John says that he is delighted that he has sold a hundred copies so far. ‘Home Cooking from Lavender Cottage’, by John Moore, is currently on sale in St. Joseph’s Redemptorist shop, Dundalk, and Connell’s Drapers, Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk.

Public urged to stay at home and protect our communities The Department of Public Health North East, An Garda Síochána, Louth and Meath County Councils are appealing to the people of Louth and Meath to exert extra efforts in tackling COVID-19 in their communities, to continue to abide by the restrictions by staying at home and following public health advice to stop the spread of the virus.

11,764 COVID-19 cases were reported in the North East in 2020 (up to 31/12/2020). Our provisional data indicates that 12,463 COVID-19 cases were reported in the region since the beginning of this year (up to 30/01/2021). There have been more cases reported in January 2021, than in the whole of 2020.

In the last 14 days (up to 30/01/2021), there have been 950 new cases of COVID-19 in Louth and 985 cases in Meath.

Dr Augustine Pereira, Director of Public Health North East said, “We are seeing a slight decrease in daily infection rates. When the number of new COVID-19 cases decrease, our natural inclination is to drop our guard, which leads to more cases in the community. So long as COV-

ID-19 remains widespread in our community, it continues to present a high risk for our vulnerable population, particularly those in our hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities.”

“This latest surge of COVID-19 infections in the community is putting greater pressure on our health services across the region. As our health services treat a significant number of patients with COVID-19, it is essential, now more than ever, that we continue to play our part to bring the infection rates down to suppress the spread of this virus.”

“Whilst it seems that this virus is relentless, there is a brighter horizon ahead. The vaccine is currently being rolled out in nursing homes and amongst frontline healthcare workers across the region, for now we need to hold firm” he added.

Chief Superintendent Fergus Healy of the Meath Garda Division said, “An Garda Síochána are encouraging the public to stay at home unless their journey is essential. Under the current regulations, a driver found to be in breach of the non-essential travel regulations can be fined, and

in addition their adult passengers can also be fined. This is also the case for adults in groups undertaking activities such as cycling or walking, every adult in such a group can be fined.”

“The vast majority of people are complying with the non-essential travel regulations and public health advice. We thank them for that” he said.

“While everyone is finding the restrictions difficult, it is even more difficult for those who have suffered loss at this time. Currently, funerals are limited to 10 mourners. There is a concern that there are significant numbers of people coming together on these sad occasions. Priority has to be given to the families themselves at funerals. It is important to remember that every contact increases the risk of transmission of this highly contagious virus. Although it is difficult we must seek to express our condolences in a different way to reduce the spread of the virus.”

Chief Superintendent for the Louth Garda Division, Christy Mangan added, “An Garda Síochána continues to conduct static and mo-

bile checkpoints, as well as high visibility patrolling focused on non-essential travel in support of the Stay Home/Stay Safe message.”

“Since Monday January 11, An Garda Síochána can prosecute breaches of travel restrictions under COVID-19 Regulations by means of a €100 Fixed Payment Notice.

These measures are in place to support the public health guidance. The best way for people to protect themselves and others is to stay at home, and continue following the public health advice."

“Before getting in the car consider whether your journey is essential.

We know it is particularly difficult for those who feel vulnerable or isolated. An Garda Síochána are here to help. Gardaí in Louth and around the country continue to help people with everyday tasks like collecting prescriptions and doing shopping.

If you need help or know someone who does, please contact your local Garda station.”

Louth County Council has recently launched a social media campaign to encourage everyone to adhere to public health advice. Joan Martin,

Chief Executive said, “We all have a role to play in reducing the strain on our hospitals and healthcare facilities. I would encourage the people of Louth to follow all public health advice, stay at home and stay safe.

Remember that our Community Call Helpline is available to those who need assistance, 1800 805 817 (available 9am – 5pm daily) or by email covidsupport@louthcoco.ie.”

The most important action we can take to protect ourselves and others from Covid-19 is to follow the public health advice: • stay at home, other than for essential reasons • ensure regular hand washing • practice good respiratory hygiene • keep 2m between yourself and other people • avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth • wear a mask

More information and advice on COVID-19 is available at www.hse. ie/coronavirus or visit https://www. hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/ novelcoronavirus/surveillance/covid-19outbreaksclustersinireland/

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

Local nurse appeals for public to take part in Motor Neurone fundraiser

A LOCAL nurse is calling on members of the public to take part in a silence challenge in a bid to raise money for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA).

Louise Hennessy from Haggardstown has been working as a nurse for the IMNDA since April 2019. She covers Louth, Meath and Dublin for the charity.

“There are four people with Motor Neurone Disease in Dundalk and 13 in Louth. It’s a progressive neurological condition,” she said.

“Most people have a three-tofive year life expectancy from the time of diagnosis. It’s a very individual disease. Some people might notice they are tripping or their speech might be a bit slurred.

“Most people go to their doctor or to a physio and they get tests and undergo investigations. It might take an average of 18 months to get a diagnosis because it is such a rare condition.”

Louise added: “It’s a horrible disease and can be relentless.

People can lose the ability to walk, talk and swallow. It involves a lot of high care and can be stressful for families.

“I do home visits as part of my job and make sure that people are linked in with various services and try to make sure they have specialised equipment such

Local MND nurse Louise Hennessy. as motorised wheelchairs.

“Our ability to fundraise has really been affected by the impact of Covid so we hope people will support this initiative,” explained Louise.

This February the IMNDA are once again running their sponsored silence campaign #Voice4MND. They are asking you to stay silent for a minimum of 30 minutes so you can experience what it would be like to lose your voice.

“Imagine one hour, imagine one day, imagine one week without your voice. We want you to give up your voice so you can experience what it is like for someone with MND. All you have to do is to pick a day and duration for your silence.

Then maybe think if you had no voice for a day how would you communicate – by app, by pen and paper?

To sign up for our Sponsored Silence just visit our website www.imnda.ie and fill out the online registration form. It’s that simple! Spread awareness by sharing your sponsored silence on social media by using #Voice4MND. Nominate friends and families to join you.

You can also donate to the campaign by texting MND to 50300 to donate €2 (100% of text goes to IMNDA across most network providers. Some providers apply VAT which means a minimum of €1.63 will go to IMNDA. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline 076 6805278).

Facebook must close down campaign for dangerous and irresponsible Saturday re-opening—McGahon A Facebook group advocating for the spontaneous re-opening of Irish businesses on Saturday is highly irresponsible and dangerous, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator John McGahon has called on the social media giant to close down this and similar group campaigns spreading false information and undermining public health guidelines.

Senator McGahon said: “It has been brought to my attention that a public Facebook group with over 1,300 members called ‘The Great ReOpening’ is agitating for the spontaneous re-

Senator John McGahon.

opening of businesses this Saturday.

“The group description states that ‘The idea of the group is for members to keep each other up to date and

show support for those businesses by opening their doors while the country is in Level 5 lockdown.’

“It is extremely irresponsible and from looking through some of the posts on the page, there are many examples of Covid and vaccine scepticism.

“This is exactly the type of dangerous discourse that is flourishing on social media sites like Facebook, completely unchallenged, both in public and hidden groups.“This type of rhetoric only serves to undermine the public health message and promote dangerous conspiracy theories about the ef-

fectiveness of vaccines, mask wearing and Covid itself. Facebook has to ultimately take responsibility and acknowledge that this type of information is spreading on their platform like wildfire, not only here in Ireland, but right across the world.

“This group is an insult to the memory of those people who have sadly died from Covid-19 and is deeply disrespectful to those frontline workers who put their own lives at risk every day.

“Facebook must shut the group down and tackle the dangerous agenda it provides a platform to.”

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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McGreehan awaiting Chair of Mother and Baby Homes P Report response to Oireachtas Committee invite r

Fianna Fáil Senator, Erin McGreehan says she is awaiting a response from the Chairperson of the Commission of Investigation into the Mother and Baby Homes Report to an invitation to come before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children, Disability, Equality

and Integration to discuss the final report.

Senator McGreehan, who is a member of the Committee, commented, “The formal invite has gone out to the chair of the Commission and we are awaiting a response on whether they will attend.

“This report, particularly its language in the summary, needs to be queried. We owe it to the women and the children who were born in these homes. They feel let down by this language and feel their testimonies are not believed.

Senator McGreehan

added: “I believe the committee discussion could be the environment in which members could question the chairperson on areas of the report. To hear the views of the Chair on how possibly the terms of reference hindered conclusions and to even explain some of the contradic-

tory statements which are within the report.

“I have put forward many proposals, including a national independent advocacy service for the survivors. There are many supports that are needed to be rolled out.

However, there needs to be a clear structure and

geographic availability to all these supports. There is a priority that care is given to survivors’ mental, physical, medical and emotional care.”

Senator McGreehan stated that “this is only the beginning of the work that needs to be done. There are many contradictions

or a lack of conclusions‘ in the Report that havefi genuinely upset manye of the survivors, who inh good faith gave their testi-o mony’s and feel let down.c I would very much valueM the opportunity to discuss the reasons for the Com-w E mission’s comments in t the Report.”

A P s c o

SIPTU study shows poverty pay driving workers out of childcare

The annual SIPTU Early Years Professionals’ survey has found that 43% of child-care workers are actively seeking another job due to low pay levels in the sector.

The findings also show that 90% of workers struggle to make ends meet, 77% have no work sick pay scheme and just 10% receive paid maternity leave Local violinist Patricia Treacy plays for President Joseph Biden during his recent inauguration from their employer. mass. The talented musician performed a number of pieces at the mass including a rendition of Of the 26,882 staff who ‘The Proclamation’ by Irish composer Patrick Cassidy. work directly with children, 98% are female.

The survey was completed in late 2020 by Dr Amy Greer Murphy, a social scientist who uses qualitative research to understand inequality Healthy Ireland—Louth it. The event is free and all book email libraryhelpdesk@ and the impact of pubLibrary Service is hosting a attendees will receive work- louthcoco.ie lic policy on social and Clever Little Handies—Free Healthy Ireland at your Li- sheets and exercises that will health outcomes. brary Zoom workshop on Cov- extend their learning beyond Online Baby Sign Classes “This research shows id, Stress and Supporting Your the actual webinar. To book week 3 on Wednesday 3rd that the Early Years Health - Tuesday 2nd of Feb- email libraryhelpdesk@louth- of February at 12.30pm. The sector is facing a crisis course is aimed at parents with ruary at 7pm with Nutritionist coco.ie due to Covid-19, with Work Matters—Louth Li- babies from newborn to toddler – Foodee Denise Wogan 74% of workers findThe session will focus more brary Service is hosting a Work stage. Learn to communicate ing their work stressful on non diet interventions and Matters Event - Online Train- with your baby before they can in these difficult times,” encouraging people to under- ing and Upskilling Opportu- talk. Booking is essential. To Dr Greer Murphy said. stand how to fuel their body nities for Adults - Wednesday book email libraryhelpdesk@ “However, many of the whilst also learning to accept 3rd of February at 11am. To louthcoco.ie. issues workers experi-

Upcoming library events

Pay a big problem in the childcare sector

ence - such as low pay and insecure contracts are not new. With 93% of respondents stating they will leave the sector within 5 years if conditions don’t improve, this research clearly indicates that these professionals need better pay, job security and to be valued more by government and society.”

The survey found that 98% of Early Years educators have not felt they are valued by government as frontline workers during the Covid-19 crisis and only 10% have received a bonus or additional pay from their employer during the pandemic.

However, the survey shows widespread sup-

port for a public funding model with 97% agreeing that ‘wages should be funded by the Government, as it does for primary and secondary school teachers’.

This would allow for a dramatic reduction in fees for parents.

Early Years Educator Eilish Balfe said “I hold a Level 8 degree and I have dedicated the last 13 years to working in Early Years yet I have received just one pay rise during that time.

How can we attract school leavers into a sector that is known for poverty pay and conditions? Our sector is near collapse due to the exodus of qualified professionals in search

h f m A g B r o of better pay and conditions. The pandemic hasg shone a light on our sec-p tor which shows that wet need to be recognisedu and valued as essentialh frontline workers.”

S SIPTU Head of Strategic Organising Darragh O’Connor said: “Only 42% of professionals earn the Living Wage of €12.30 and 38% are actively looking to leave their profession. Even before the pandemic, there was a staffing crisis but we are now on the verge of losing huge numbers of educators unless pay and conditions are adD dressed.”

He added: “The Gov-t ernment, workers andl employers all have at role to play in endingi poverty pay. The estab-p lishment of a Joint La-m bour Committee, whichd can set out standards ina wages and conditions oft employment across thefi sector and was prom-t ised in the Programme a for Government, is the first step in that procs ess.”

D b

Urgent upgrade works on pitch in Toberona needed

Fianna Fail councillor Sean Kelly has called on Louth County Council to urgently look at undertaking maintenance works on the AstroTurf pitch in the Oldbridge Estate in Toberona. Sean raised the issue at a recent Municipal District of Dundalk meeting after he had submitted the following motion: ‘That Louth County

Council undertake maintenance works at the AstroTurf Pitch in the Oldbridge Estate in Toberona as a matter of urgency and furthermore secure this site for use by the local community and in particular young people’.

According to Sean it has never been more important to maintain and upgrade local amenities such as the

AstroTurf pitch in Toberona, given the fact that people are not allowed to travel further than 5km from their home.

“I put forward the motion as the pitch up in Toberona has been in a bad way for a number of years now.

We need to maintain these amenities and ensure that they are available for kids to

use. Now more than ever with so many restrictions in place and with people not allowed to travel further than 5k from their home we need to have some sort of facilities open for kids to help them get through this latest lockdown,” stated Sean.

In response to his motion Louth County Council stated that

they currently had no budget to maintain the pitch but would do so if any funding opportunities arose.

“There is no budgetary provision for the maintenance of the AstroTurf/ MUGA pitches in the county.

In regard to the facility at Oldbridge it is intended to inspect the site when restrictions allow. We will look to

avail of any funding opportunities to maintain these facilities in the future,” stated the local authority.

In response Cllr Kelly said it was a shame that the council didn’t have the means to maintain the pitch as facilities like the one in Toberona can act as a deterrent to antisocial behaviour.

“99% of the people

in Toberona are good community minded people but unfortunately like everywhere else there are always one or two bad eggs who let the area down and I just feel that if we ensure we have adequate facilities in our communities it will help reduce acts of vandalism and anti-social behaviour,” stated Sean.

Cllr Sean Kelly.

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

Public confidence needed in relation to vaccine rollout

‘Support and confidence’ are needed to ensure that the public has faith in the rollout of Covid-19 vaccines, Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú has said.

The Sinn Féin TD was speaking after the EU pulled back from their threat to trigger Article 16 of the Irish Protocol in order to stop AstraZeneca vaccines being exported out of the EU. He said it was ‘foolhardy in the extreme’ for the EU to ‘even moot the triggering of Article 16’ as ‘it was grist to the mill of the Brexiteers who are already using it to their own ends’.

However, the ongoing issue with the provision of vaccines through the EU continues to be of concern to health authorities in the State.

Mr Ó Murchú said:

‘People need to have confidence in the rollout of the vaccination programme. We accept that there are going to be wobbles along the way but we need to ensure there is clarity of information in relation to the timelines for the rollout and any anomalies about the groups who are due the vaccines should be cleared up immediately’.

The Dundalk deputy also raised the issue of an ‘all-Ireland response’ to Covid-19, particularly in relation to travel.

‘At this point, the numbers are still bad and we still have the health service under severe pressure. There has been improvement but we need to ensure maximum suppression of the virus. We need test, trace and isolate infrastructure and proper travel restrictions

including multiple test and quarantining.

‘We are open to a two island solution should that arise’.

‘We need people to do their best and not to travel outside the 5km zones except for essential reasons. People need to stay at home and adhere to public health advice’.

He told asked the Taoiseach in the Dáil last week: ‘Does the Taoiseach agree that a necessary element in delivering an all-Ireland response would be the sharing of information on travellers?

‘We are all aware that the Northern Executive Minister of Health, Robin Swann, has been looking for this information and this issue to be dealt with since last March. We have heard from the Department of Transport and members of the Government, in-

cluding the Taoiseach, that there is a GDPR issue’.

‘I welcome that the Taoiseach said something rather positive about his interaction with the Northern Executive. Will he tell me what is the update and what is the lie of the land on this so we can cut off things such as the back door through Belfast (from Britain) and provide a proper all-Ireland response?’

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘If we cannot deliver on an all Ireland response we at least need the information about people travelling on to the South after landing in Belfast airports and this needs to happen as quickly as possible, along with the other virus suppression provisions’.

Good news for young soccer players as Dundalk FC re-launch their academy

Dundalk FC have shown their intent in bringing through local talent to their first team in the coming years by relaunching their academy with former player Stephen McDonnell the man who will lead the way in developing youngsters from around the town. The relaunch took place yesterday with officials from the club expressing the importance of a well-run academy.

Club chairman Bill Hulsizer stated that he and everyone at Dundalk FC were committed in bringing through local talent.

“Academies are the lifeblood of football clubs and this video is symbolic of our promise to the youth of Ireland and the world that Dundalk FC is committed to developing young men and women as football players and as productive citizens of the world.”

Jim Magilton | Dundalk FC Sporting Director Jim Magilton echoed those thoughts while expressing his excitement at the thoughts of the next generation coming through.

“As a football club, there’s no greater excitement than discovering a prospect in the youth

Stephen McDonnell. ranks, a talent that has all the potential to make a real difference in the first team for years to come.

“There are many factors that determine that but what is always present and consistent is that those who flourished all had the correct management, system and environment in place to allow them to shine.

“We are excited about the future and we look forward to the next generation of Dundalk players coming through and carrying on that proud tradition.”

First team coach Filippo Giovagnoli stated that “Having a strong youth academy is the way to building a strong club

that will sustain itself by producing and developing players for the first team.” While the recently instated academy manager Stephen McDonnell said: “This is an exciting time for young talented footballers to be part of the Dundalk FC Academy.

“We believe that we have recruited top people and coaches who will only aid with the development of the next crop of talented players at our football club.

“My objective is to develop players for our first team and with the new structures in place we hope to be successful in delivering this.”

9

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

10

O’Murchú welcomes EU’s Brendan to release new Cross border health directive nature photography book The news that patients seeking treatment for non-urgent medical care in the North will continue to be reimbursed by the HSE under a new post-Brexit scheme has been welcomed by Dundalk TD Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly recently announced that a new mechanism called the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme is now in place for those in the South who wish to seek treatment in the North.

The EU’s Cross Border Health Directive, where the HSE reimburses patients for treatment they receive in another EU country, was no longer applicable to the North after Britain left the European Union on January 1.

However, the health minister’s announcement that there is now a one-year scheme in place between the North and the South of

Ruairi O Murchu, TD.

Ireland has been welcomed by Louth’s Sinn Féin TD. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘There have been a number of queries to my office over the last few weeks about what would happen to those seeking treatment in the North after Brexit.

It was clear that while there was work going on behind the scenes, there was nothing official in

place until recently. ‘I am very pleased that an agreement has been reached between health authorities North and South to allow those who want faster access to treatment for non urgent medical care to be reimbursed if they go North for it.

‘A significant number of people from Louth have travelled North for hip replacements, knee replacements, cataract surgery and other procedures instead of languishing on a HSE waiting list.

‘It is very welcome news that there is a scheme in place to allow this to continue’.

The TD said he was worried, however, that the scheme is only in place until the end of 2021 and called on the government to work to make sure that it endures after that.

He said: ‘With the way things are on the island at the moment, there are constraints on travelling for non es-

sential purposes. That’s going to slow down people’s access to treatment in the North.

‘I have no doubt that because of the cancellation of clinics and consultant appointments across a wide range of clinical areas because of the Covid-19 pandemic, there will be huge pressure on waiting lists when the health service begins to return to normal.

‘Minister Donnelly and the HSE have to start working now to ensure that the arrangement that is in place now for cross border healthcare access endures past the end of this year and not leave it to the last minute at the end of 2021 to start talking about an extension’.

For more information on the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, contact the Cross Border Healthcare Directive Department of the HSE on 056 7784546.

Keen nature photographer Brendan Connolly is hoping to publish his book ‘Pictures of Wildlife’ in the near future after picking 200 of his favourite shots from the many he took during the lockdown last year.

The St Alphonsus Road man’s love affair with nature was nurtured thanks to a book he received from his teacher as well as a small kodak camera given to him by his dad at Christmas. According to Brendan all of the pictures in the book were taken during the lockdown of 2020 in various spots around town including Fairgreen, the quay and the Navvy Bank. He says that his love for nature began when receiving a book from his teacher as an eleven-year old in Dún Dealgan National School.

“When I was eleven I saw an old book about birds in the bookcase of my teacher Mrs Smith in Dun Dealgan N.S. I

Brendan Connolly.

asked her for a lend of it and my father taught me about all the birds in it when I brought it home.

For my next birthday he got me a small kodak camera and that is when I started to really get into wildlife and taking pictures of all the beautiful birds and animals around the town,” explains Brendan.

“My love for wildlife grew with trips to

Bellurgan Park and the Lake District with the scouts and I can still remember the excitement upon seeing my first red squirrel as a twelve-year old. I got my first serious camera in Leavy’s chemist and the first picture I took with it was of a beautiful kingfisher. Over the years I have developed a love for hill walking and mountain climbing

and I never leave home without my camera as D you just never know where you will see ap wonderful bird or ani-f mal to take a snap of.t Over the last twentyt years I must have takeno over a hundred thou-y sand photographs andw I found last year during T lockdown that it really helped me get throughw the year and give men something to focus on.p I decided to put 200 ofp my favourite photos inb a book to show peo-t ple some examples of the wonderful wildlife on our doorsteps. One good thing about theD lockdown was the factp that wildlife really be-f gan to flourish and itt really was amazing tot see the huge increase ofo birds and sea creatures y down beside the Navvy bank and down thew quay,” recalls Brendan. T Brendan’s book ‘Pic-w tures of Wildlife’ isn currently being put to-p gether and he hopes top release it in the comingb months. t

Brendan’s snapshot of Dundalk wildlife

Ravensdale: Fallow Deer.

Blackrock: Great Black-Backed Gull.

Templetown: Kestrel.

Navvy Bank: Meadow Pipit.

Blackrock: Ring-Billed Gull.

11

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

Family Notices novena

novena

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it.

Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). K.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it.

Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). C.C.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it.

Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). S. & R.K. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it.

Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). S.M.

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

Filippo Giovagnoli with FAI Cup

anticipated with Dundalk looking to make it back to back wins against the champions having secured a dramatic 4-2 extra time victory in last season’s FAI Cup final.

Meanwhile the fixtures for the 2021 league season were released on Monday and they see Dundalk open their campaign with a tricky looking opener away to Sligo Rovers.

The first home game for the Lilywhites is a week later against Finn Harps before a tough start to April with games against

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Dundalk to kick off new campaign against rivals Shamrock Rovers Dundalk FC will kick off their 2021 campaign against their fiercest rivals Shamrock Rovers when the two sides face off in the President’s Cup on Friday 12th March at Tallaght Stadium. The traditional season curtain raiser sees league champions Rovers take on FAI Cup winners Dundalk with both sides looking to put down a marker ahead of the new league season which starts a week later.

The fixtures for the upcoming season were confirmed on Monday morning and a draw took place to decide on home advantage for the President’s Cup tie.

Last year’s President Cup didn’t take place with the game postponed due to storm Ciara and then scrapped altogether due to Covid-19. The upcoming game between two of the best sides in the country will be eagerly

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Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians in successive weeks. The return of the Louth derby following Drogheda Utd’s promotion will take place on the 23rd April. The season is scheduled to be thirty six league games this year while the FAI have announced that they are scrapping the EA Sports Cup this season. Clubs were also informed on Monday that the league’s 2021 prizemoney pot stands at €600,000, up from €338,000 in 2020.

Dundalk FC returned to Oriel Park this week

for pre-season training and speaking to the club’s website manager Filippo Giovagnoli stated that the club are looking to bring in a couple of more players to complete his squad for the new season.

“We probably need another couple of players and we are working to do that. We have time, the window is open and there are a lot of opportunities in the market. We want to improve the team so we want to get it right and not make mistakes,” stated the 50 year old Italian.

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LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Ian Reilly, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at The Cottage, Hoey’s Lane, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: Permission to retain an unauthorised structure located to north west boundary of the site. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Ian Reilly.

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

Ciaran takes on 5k challenge after surviving three heart attacks A 30-year-old Louth man who suffered three heart attacks and feared he would not survive to become a father, is now about to take up a 5km challenge to thank the charity which helped him rebuild his life.

Gaelic footballer and jiujitsu fighter Ciaran Byrne was stunned when he had to have two stents inserted into his heart and was told he needed urgent cardiac care.

“The only thing I kept thinking about was that I am 30 years old and I never got to meet my kids,” said the Monasterboice man.

“I felt so old and bad about myself. I felt like an old man in a young man’s body.”

Despite his diagnosis with unstable angina, Ciaran, who now lives in Camolin, Co Wexford, with girlfriend Nicola Sheil, 29, has signed up to walk the virtual Love Run to help the Irish Heart Foundation bridge a major funding gap caused by the pandemic.

The 5km event is part of the charity’s ‘Show Some Heart’ fundraising campaign which raises €150,000 each year.

That vital funding is normally generated through bucket collections, bag packing and events across Ireland – now all fundraising activity has moved online due to Covid-19.

Cabinet maker Ciaran is urging everyone to put on their training gear and sign up for the February 14 challenge.

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Ciaran Byrne, 30, is gearing up for a 5km ‘Love Run’ to raise vital funds for the Irish Heart Foundation after suffering three heart attacks and urges everyone to sign up at irishheart.ie.

Louth senior GAA club champions Naomh Mairtin and keen boxing and jiu-jitsu enthusiast, his health nightmare struck suddenly last August.

After struggling with persistent chest pains, vision difficulties and breathlessness, he was admitted to Wexford General Hospital.

An MRI scan and angiogram revealed he had suffered three previous heart attacks, had a

major blockage in his coronary artery and was fitted with two stents to clear it.

Walking the Love Run is his way of thanking the Irish Heart Foundation support teams for getting him on the road to recovery, alongside the love and care of Nicola.

He is a member of the charity’s Heart Support Network on Facebook and has also received help and reassurance from the

Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home saddened by fourteen deaths after Covid outbreak Blackrock Abbey nursing home has released a statement saying they are extremely saddened by the loss of fourteen residents following an outbreak of Covid-19 in recent weeks.

Management confirmed that fourteen residents have passed away at the home since the beginning of January during a very challenging month for both staff and families. They also stated that they believe the worst is now over with only two residents still to complete their 14-day isolation.

At one point last week

there were thirty residents who had tested positive for Covid-19 in the 62 bed care facility. The first dose of the Pfizer vaccine was administered to staff and residents on January 19th with the second dose due to be given in two weeks time.

The statement read "it has been very challenging time for everyone, not least for the families involved.

Thankfully we have been able to ensure family members had time with their loved one in advance of their passing, which we know has been of some

comfort," it said. The home also said it is coming towards the end of the outbreak with only two residents still to complete their 14-day isolation.

The statement went on to say that the vast majority of staff have also completed their isolation. The second vaccine dose is expected to be administered in the week of 15 February.

The statement ended by thanking families, the Health Service Executive and Public Health for their ongoing support.

nurse support line.

“I am doing the Love Run for the Irish Heart Foundation but also for my parents, my brothers, for my family, for their future families. I have three brothers and seeing their reactions when they realised that they nearly lost me was heartbreaking, it was very difficult for my parents as well.

“Your body will tell you when there is something wrong. It is up to you to listen to it.”

Judith Gilsenan, the charity’s Head of Fundraising, said thousands of people are diagnosed with a heart condition every year.

“Overnight, their life changes and they can feel vulnerable and isolated. We have been there to support people and fight against heart disease in communities, workplaces and schools,” she said.

“This Valentine’s Day, across Ireland, people can help support those living with heart conditions and stroke and those they love by taking part in the Love Run. “We need €150,000 every year to make sure we are there for people living with heart disease and stroke. And we must be there, because every heart matters.”

Register for €20 at irishheart. ie and you will receive a training plan, tips and an Irish Heart Foundation neck warmer. If you are unable to take part, donations (personal or corporate), can be made at irishheart.ie.

1—What is the collective name for a group of giraffes?

2—What is the soft spot on a newborn baby’s head called?

3—Where is St Brigid’s shrine in Dundalk?

4—Who was the first Irish woman to hold a cabinet post?

5—In which Italian City did Daniel O’Connell die?

6—Which trio were the best paid band in the world in 1979?

7—In which country

is the southern most point of mainland Europe?

8—In February 2020, which small European country became the first in the world to make the use of all public transport free?

9—What does He stand for in the periodic table?

10—Which Irish town name means ‘Ford of the Kings’?

The Stinker—Why is the Anglo-Zanzibar War in the record books?

—this week’s answers— 1—Tower, 2—The fontanelle, 3—Faughart, 4—Constance Markievicz, 5—Genoa, 6—Bee Gees, 7—Spain (Punta de Tarifa) 8—Luxembourg, 9—Helium, 10—Athenry. The Stinker: The shortest war in history (38 minutes long).

Plumbing

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

recent deaths Patsy Coburn Dublin Road, Hag- everyone who knew her and especial- Lourdes Hospital. Predeceased by his gardstown, Dundalk. Peacefully in ly her great friends and neighbours in parents Paddy and Nana, sister Joan, the wonderful care of Blackrock Ab- Thomas Street, where she resided up mother in-law Briege Murphy. He will bey Nursing Home. 25th January to until she recently had to go to hos- be very sadly missed by his loving 2021. Patsy beloved husband of the pital. wife Kathleen, daughters Sharon and late Olive nee Donnellan and dear Aideen, son Barry, brothers Gerard, father Fiona, Brenda, Eugene, Joe and Phyllis MULHOLLAND Legion Ave- Paul and John, sisters Margaret and Nadia and granddad of Stacey, Kelly, nue, Dundalk, Louth. Daughter of the Sheila, daughter in-law Rachel, son Loren, Austin and Heather, and great late Paddy and Roseanne and sister in-law Barry, Aideen’s partner Ultan granddad of Allie and Toby, Taryn, of the late Tommy, Paddy, Eddie, Des, Toner, grandchildren, Dylan, Finn, Eland Kahlan and brother of the late Sheila, Maureen and Kathleen. She lie and Patrick, brothers and sisters May, Willy, Jack, Mickey, Nickey and will be sadly missed by her nephews, in-law, father in-law Michael, uncle Gerry and father in law of Breffni and nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, Hugh Mullen extended family relaJohn. Patsy will sadly missed by his great-grandnephews, great-grand- tives wonderful friends and neighsons, daughters, grandchildren, great niece, relatives and friends. bours. grandchildren, sons in law, nephews, Tommy WHITE Meadow Grove and Kevin HYNES Mullatee, Carlingford, nieces, relatives and many friends. formerly of Ballymakellett, RavensLouth. Peacefully, in the gentle and May Clarke St. Nicholas Avenue, dale, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully, at dedicated care of the staff of Our Lady Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully in the Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Be- of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. Bekind and gentle care of the staff at loved husband of Frances (née Kelly). loved husband of the late Eileen (nee Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home. Pre- Predeceased by his parents Patrick Treanor) and dear father of Kevin, Codeceased by her parents Louise and and Grace, son Patrick, brother Harry. rina, Shirley and Barry. Predeceased Jack, brothers Harry and Sean, sisters He will be sadly missed by his wife by his parents Michael and Ruby and Patricia, Olive and Briege. May will be Frances, brother Pat (England), step- brother Con. He will be sadly missed sadly missed and remembered with son Niall, step-daughter Kelly, sisters by his sorrowing sons, daughters, love by her dear sisters Phyllis and in-law Eileen and Rose, niece Jacque- loving grandchildren Tommy, Ruby, Vera brother-in-law Liam, sister-in- line and her husband Sean Craven, Kacey, Amy, Christopher, David, law Breige, cherished nieces & neph- extended family relatives, neighbours Jamie, Kevin, Sarah and Eileen, sonews extended family neighbours, her and friends. in-law and daughters-in-law Patrick, large circle of friends and by all who Maura TOALE (née Conlon), Wallace’s Valerie, Anne and Ronan, brothers knew and loved her.

Cove, Blackrock, Louth. Peacefully in Eric and Dessie, sisters-in-law Frances, Noel Breen Bay Estate, Dundalk the loving care of St. Peter’s Nursing Philomena, Rose and Sadie, his exand formerly of Adare, Co. Limer- Home, Castlebellingham. 27th Janu- tended family and dear friends. ick. Peacefully in the wonderful care ary 2021. Maura, (in her 91st year) Danny FERGUSON Castletowncooley, of Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home. wife of the late Patrick, dear mother Riverstown, Dundalk, Louth. Peace26th January 2021. Retired member of Mairead Ahern, Siobhan Hills, Emer, fully, in the gentle and dedicated care of An Garda Siochána. Noel beloved Niamh Maguire, Brendan, Pearse, of the staff of Carlingford Nursing husband of Margaret, dear father of Patricia Nelson, Eamon and adored Home. Beloved husband of the late Kathryn, Michael, John, Patrick, Paul granny of Sean, Sadhbh, Neil, Aideen, Veronica, son of the late Daniel and and Roísin, granddad of Aoife, Eoin, Niamh, Fionnuala, Sarah, Charlie, Han- Margaret and dear father of Margaret, Booky, Frankie and Jamie and brother nah, Ciara, Cillian, Shane, David, Emer, Pat and Jim. He will be sadly missed of Kathleen, Madge, Paul, Lily, Marie, Etain, Conor, James and Brian, great by his sorrowing daughter, sons, Nuala and Collette. Predeceased by granny of Niamh, Sarah, Jack, Padraig, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandhis brothers John and Mehaul. Noel Aoibh, Clodagh, Fionn, Caoimhe and children, great-grandchild, brothers, will be sadly missed by his wife, sons, Saoirse, and sister of Bina Mc Mor- sister, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, daughters, grandchildren, son-in-law row, the late Breed Brennan and Sean relatives and friends.

Brendan, daughters-in-law Siobhan, Conlon. Maura will be sadly missed by Nang, and Miriam, brother, sisters, her sons, daughters, grandchildren, Josephine BYRNE (née Cunningnephews, nieces, relatives and many great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Tim, ham), Coastgaurd Houses, Lower Ronan and Colin, daughters-in-law Point Road, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefriends.

Siobhan and Mary, nephews, nieces, fully in the love and tender care of St. Kathleen O’CONNOR (née McGee), relatives and friends.

Peter’s Nursing Home, CastlebellingMarian Park, Dundalk, Louth. Peaceham. Beloved wife of the late Gerard fully, in her 85th year, in the gentle Joseph (Joe) STEWART Annies, Kil- (Doylesfort Road). Predeceased by care of the staff of Blackrock Abbey curry, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully in her husband, sons Damian and GerNursing Home. Beloved wife of the the love and tender care of Blackrock ard, sister Doreen, brothers Michael, late Joe and dear mum of Gerry, Alan, Abbey Nursing Home. Beloved hus- Gerard and Vincent, Josephine will be Dermot and the late Patsy. She will be band of the late Bridie (née O’Hare). sadly missed by her loving daughters sadly missed by her sorrowing sons, Predeceased by his parents Thomas Maria, Joyce, Orla and Adrienne, sons daughters-in-law Catriona and Gillian, and Susan, brothers Francis and in-law Gerry Mulligan, Graham Miher grandchildren, great-grandchil- Tommy, sister Ita, He will be sadly ley and Peter Thomas, grandchildren dren, sister Angela, nephews, nieces, missed by his loving sons and daugh- Gary, Suzanne, Nicola, Linda, Mark, ters Teddy, Susan, Particia, Marcella, relatives and friends.

Christine and Joash, great-grandchilRobert, Gregory, Jeannette, Pauline, Brian GLYNN Marsh Road, Bellurgan, Martin and Gillian, brothers Brendan, dren Shay, Tiernan, Aaron, Sophia, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully, in the Robbie and James, sisters Nan and Adam, Christian, Síenna, Freya, Wilgentle care of the staff of Carlingford Eileen, sons and daughters in-law, 24 liam and Tommy, nephews, nieces, Nursing Home. Beloved husband of grandchildren, 19 great-grandchil- extended family, neighbours and Odile and dear father of Alan, Louise dren, nephews, nieces extended fam- friends. and Richelle. He will be sadly missed ily relatives wonderful friends and Bernadette (Bertie) Treacy née by his sorrowing wife, son, daughters, neighbours.

Mc Ardle, The Square, Blackrock. Co. Alan’s partner Sarah Jane, his children Louth and formerly of Broomfield.

Ruby, Robyn, Ethan and their mother Angela MULROY (née Barton), Co Monaghan. D’éalaigh Bertie uainn Sally, Louise’s son Oran, Brian’s sisters Dunleer, Louth. Peacefully at home, chuig na haingle i St. Mary’s Nursing Kate and Patt and his nephews, niec- surrounded by her family. Angie, beHome, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan, loved wife of the late Patsy and loves, relatives and friends 29th January 2021. Bertie, beloved ing mother of Mary, Catherine, Sean, Mae DULLAGHAN (née Coburn), Tho- Margaret and Patricia. Sadly missed wife of the late Seán, eternally supmas Street., Dundalk, Louth. Peace- by her son, daughters, grandchildren, portive and loving mother of Mona fully, at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. great-grandchildren, sisters Jenny (Metcalfe), Marina (Ní Threasaigh O Predeceased by her husband Jimmy, and Peggy, sons-in-law, daughter- Neill), Jimmy and Shane. Beloved brothers Phil, Sean, Brendan and Pat, in-law, nephews, nieces, neighbours, Mamó of Patrick, Joseph, Ramona, Solène, Marielle, Brigitte, Éadaoin, sisters Olive and Eileen. Mae will be relatives and friends.

Robert, Isabelle, Tiarnach, David, Claysadly missed by her son Jim brother Dermot, sisters Mona, Briege and Michael (Mickey) McGAHON Doy- ton and Roy; loving mother-in-law of Anne, daughter-in-law Una, grand- lesfort Grove and formerly of Philip Sandra, Suzanne, Jim and Nigel; sister children Neil, Ryan and Orla, brother Street, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully sur- of the late Kathleen, Jimmy, Molly and sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, rounded by his family at Our Lady of (Sr. Mary Anne), Betty (Ward), Mona

(Sr. Monica) and Patricia. Bertie will also be sadly missed by her nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

wife of John, dear mother of John, David, Gareth, Donna, Paul and Jason loving granny of Dylan, Kyle, Katie, Holly, Clara, Ellie, Summerrose, Harley, Alexis and Tyler and sister of Terry, Eamon, Frances and the late Kathleen and Gerard. Carol will be sadly missed by her husband, sons, daughter, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, son in law Paul Drury, daughters in law Aveen, Nadine, and John’s partner Alison, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Jack BELLEW Commons Road., Dromiskin, Louth. Peacefully in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Jack much loved husband of Nancy née Tuttle dear father of John, Michael, Mary Moore, and Kevin granddad of Siobhan, Brian, Niall, Sean, Teagan, Triston and Shannon, father-in-law of Kim, Cheryl, Robert and the late Kelly and brother of Carmel, Phylis, Harry, Brenda, Anthony and the late Briege, Kath- Kitty Sheelan Rathcor, Riverstown, leen, Paddy and Brendan. Jack will be Dundalk peacefully at home sursadly missed by his wife, sons, daugh- rounded by her loving family. Preters, grandchildren, son in law, daugh- deceased by her beloved husband ters in law, brothers, sisters, nephews, Paddy. Very deeply regretted by her loving daughter Bernadette, sons Seanieces, relatives, and friends. mus, Adrian, Brendan and Hugh, also Kathleen McDonald (née Roger- Benny, son-in-law Tommy, daughtersson), Late of O`Hanlon Park, Dundalk, in-law Bernadette, Carol, Breidge, Louth. Peacefully at her daughter Fiona also Marie, grandchildren, great Louise’s residence after being lov- grandchildren, sisters-in-law Maureen ingly cared by her adoring family. Pre- and Philomena, nephews, nieces, reldeceased by her husband Seamus, atives and friends. parents Mary & Tomas, aunt Delia (Kerley) and her good friend Christy Niall NEACY Oakvale Park, Bay Estate, White. Cherished mother of Louise Dundalk, Louth. Beloved husband of (Kelly) and Aidan. Kathleen will be Michelle (née Gray) and cherished sadly missed and remembered with daddy of Aaron, Emily and Grace. Prelove by her daughter, son, doting deceased by his dad Brendan. Niall grandchildren Shane, Daniel, Mark, will be sadly missed with love by his Jack, Cillian, Laura and Sarah, son-in- heartbroken wife and children, mum law Larry, daughters-in-law Sinead & Olivia (née Mc Key), brother Conor, Fiona, her dear sisters Geraldine (Wal- mother in-law Sheila, sisters in-law lace), Moira (Wilson) (Manchester), Laura, Linda, Fiona and Deborah, brothers-in-law Gerry & Keith, sister- uncles, aunts, nephew James, nieces in-law Marie (McArdle) nieces, neph- Kayleigh, Nancy and Alice, extended ews, extended family, neighbours family relatives, neighbours and many friends. and friends.

Jimmy (Sniper) ELDER Clooneevan, Eugene KELLETT Cherryvale Bay EsHaggardstown, Dundalk, Louth / tate, Dundalk, Louth / Virginia, Cavan.

Malahide, Dublin. Son of Catherine Peacefully in the love and tender care and the late John much loved part- of Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home, ner of Veronica (Watters), dear father formerly of Virginia Co. Cavan. Belovof Nichola, Jason and the late baby ed husband of Eileen (née Fitzgerald) Carolyn, grandad of Oisín, Analeigh, and dear dad of Gerard, Nuala and Fiach, Ríona and brother of John, Pad- Patricia. He will be sadly missed by dy, Tom, Catherine and Mary. Jimmy his loving wife, son, daughters, sisters will be sadly missed by his heartbro- Kathleen and Anna-Rose, daughter ken mother, partner, son, daughter, in-law Bernadette, grandchildren grandchildren, Veronica’s son Gary, Natasha, Fionn, Christopher, Martha, brothers, sisters, son in law Paul, Ja- Holly and Phoebe, nephews, nieces son’s partner Maria, brothers in law, extended family relatives wonderful friends and neighbours. sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.

Mavis Ann (Ann) GORDON Carlingford Nursing Home and formerly Rath Joseph (Joe) MARKEY Ballug, CarlingAbbey, Grange, Carlingford, Louth. ford, Louth. Peacefully at Carlingford Peacefully, in the gentle care of the Nursing Home. Predeceased by his staff of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, wife Ann, son Brian and daughter CarDrogheda. Over the last seven years, mel. Very deeply regretted by his lovAnn received the exceptional care ing daughters Linda, Carole, Barbara, and friendship of the community at Marion, Nuala, Catriona and Joanne, Carlingford Nursing Home and the sons Paul, Joseph, Eamonn, Stephen dedication of Doctors John, Alina and and Ronan, sons-in-law, daughtersBart at Carlingford Medical Centre. in-law, grandchildren, great grandShe will be sadly missed by her neighchildren, sister Rose, brothers-in-law, bours at Rath Abbey and her entire sisters-in-law and all his nephews, circle of friends. nieces, relatives and friends.

Dr Marie Theresa (Theresa) Bernard Gonnelly Ladywell Garvey Knockagolis, Castleblayney, Square, Dundalk. Peacefully in the Monaghan / Glenwood, Dundalk, wonderful care of Blackrock Abbey Louth. Peacefully in the wonderNursing Home. 30th January 2021. ful care of Breda and staff at CarysBernard son of the late James and Kafort Nursing Home, Glenageary, Co. tie and brother of Jim, Maureen, Jose- Dublin. Predeceased by her parents phine. Bernard will be sadly missed Patrick and Catherine, her sister Anne by his brother, sisters, brothers in and brothers Paddy and Tom.She law Kevin, Eamon, nephews, nieces, will be greatly missed and lovingly grandnephews, grandnieces, rela- remembered by her sisters Claire tives and friends.

Cusack and Kathleen Quinn, nieces, Carol Cooney née Martin, Littlem- nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephills, Knockbridge, Dundalk. 30th Janu- ews, brother-in-law Matt, sisters-inary 2021. Peacefully in Our Lady of law Margaret and Kathleen, extended Lourdes Hospital. Carol much loved family and friends.

Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021

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Almost half more reliant on car during lockdown Half of Irish people are more reliant on their private car than they were 12 months ago, a recent survey has found.

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Almost half of Irish people are more reliant on their private car than they were 12 months ago, a recent survey has found.

In response to a survey of over 5,000 people undertaken by AA Ireland, an insurance intermediary and breakdown assistance provider, 29.75% of respondents strongly agree that they rely more on their private car for commuting and essential travel now than they did a year ago. Similarly, 15.61% partially agreed that they were now more reliant on a private car for travel.

The survey also found a significant growth in the percent of respondents who say that they now cycle more regularly

YEAR MAKE

2017 2017 2018 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2019 2018 2019 2016 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2019 2019 2018 2018

AUDI BMW BMW DACIA DACIA DACIA FIAT HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI NISSAN NISSAN NISSAN NISSAN OPEL PEUGEOT PEUGEOT PEUGEOT PEUGEOT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT SEAT SKODA SKODA SKODA SKODA SKODA SKODA TOYOTA VW VOLVO

than that would have 12 months ago. A total of 10.52% either strongly or partially agreed that they now used a bike for commuting or general travel more regularly than they would have a year ago.

“In general, traffic levels are still significantly below the pre-COVID norm, but we have seen a noticeable increase in the current lockdown when compared to the first lockdown in March of last year. This is partly driven by the fact that some additional sectors, such as essential construction, remain open and over-70s are not being asked to cocoon,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “However, it does also seem that some peo-

MODEL

A4 X1 1 SERIES SANDERO STEPWAY SANDERO TIPO I30 I30 I30 I40 TUSCON I10 I10 KONA TUSCON TUSCON XTRAIL QASHQAI QASHQAI QASHQAI CORSA 208 208 3008 5008 CLIO CLIO CAPTUR CAPTUR KADJAR CLIO CLIO CLIO CLIO CAPTUR MEGANE MEGANE KADJAR MII FABIA OCTAVIA OCTAVIA SUPERB SUPERB FABIA COROLLA PASSAT S60

ple who would previously have used public transport either pre-COVID or during the previous lockdowns are now opting to use a car if they have access to one – likely to reduce their risk of contracting the virus.”

The growth in cyclist numbers, however, also points to an immediate and longer-term need to invest in cycling infrastructure nationwide, the AA highlighted.

Of those surveyed by the AA, 29.92% stated they would strongly support increased government spending on cycling infrastructure in the year ahead, with a further 29.04% saying they would be somewhat supportive of increased investment.

“Across all ages and de-

SPEC/FUEL

2.0 TDI ULTRA SE 2.0 s drive auto 116 D SE 1.0 PETROL ALTERNATIVE 1.0 PETROL ALTERNATIVE 1.0 PETROL ALTERNATIVE 1.3 MJ DIESEL EASY MODEL 1.4 PETROL DELUXE 1.4 PETROL DELUXE 1.6 CRDI DELUXE 1.7 CRDI EXECUTIVE 1.7 CRDI AUTO SE 1.0 PETROL CLASSIC 1.0 PETROL DELUXE 1.0 PETROL EXECUTIVE 1.6 CRDI COMFORT PLUS 1.6 CRDI EXECUTIVE 1.6 DCI SV MOONROOF 1.2 PETROL SV 1.3 PETROL SV 1.5 DCI SV 1.4 PETROL 120 YEARS MODEL 1.2 PETROL ACCESS 1.2 PETROL ACTIVE 1.2 PETROL ACTIVE 1.5 HDI ACTIVE 1.2 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.2 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.5 DCI DYNAMIQUE NAV 1.5 DCI SIGNATURE X 1.5 DIESEL DYNA NAV AUTO 1.0 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.0 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.0 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.0 PETROL DYNA NAV 1.0 PETROL ICONIC 1.3 PETROL PLAY MODEL 1.3 PETROL PLAY MODEL 1.3 PETROL TCE PLAY 1.0 PETROL SE 1.0 PETROL AMBITION 1.0 TSI AMBITION 1.6 DIESEL AMBITION 1.6 TDI AMBITION 1.6 TDI AMBITION 1.0 PETROL ACTIVE 1.2 PETROL H/B LUNA 1.6 TDI TRENDLINE 2.0 D2 SE AUTO

mographics, we have seen a growth in cycling numbers in recent years and particularly so during the COVID-era – something which is positive for the individual but also for our overall efforts to provide people with alternative modes of transport and meet our climate change goals,” Faughnan added. “While it is unclear what commuting will look like post-COVID, for example so people may never return to working 5 days a week in the office, what we do know is we want the future of daily travel to be greener and continued investment in cycling infrastructure is a step in that direction.”

COLOUR

MILES

PRICE

SILVER WHITE SILVER WHITE BLACK BLUE RED RED BEIGE BLUE BLUE GREY BLUE WHITE GREY WHITE BEIGE SILVER GREY BLUE GREY SILVER BLACK GREY GREY GREY WHITE WHITE WHITE GREY BLACK RED BLUE RED RED/WINE BLUE RED WHITE GREEN WHITE SILVER SILVER GREY GREY BLACK GREY GREY BROWN SILVER

61250 76250 48750 14375 15000 4375 43125 46250 39375 51250 43750 49375 16250 23750 25000 31250 16250 50000 56250 25625 28125 15625 37500 20625 16250 31875 31250 28750 60000 28125 53750 18750 35625 25000 31250 22500 24375 23750 14375 13750 32500 31875 46875 55625 47500 16250 18750 56250 48750

€20990 €23990 €19990 €10990 €13990 €11750 €12990 €14990 €14990 €16450 €18990 €25990 €11990 €12450 €20990 €25990 €27990 €22990 €17990 €22490 €22990 €12990 €9990 €12990 €24750 €29750 €11450 €11450 €14750 €16450 €18990 €12990 €12990 €12990 €12990 €15800 €16990 €16990 €19990 €10990 €10990 €15990 €15990 €19990 €19990 €12250 €20990 €18990 €21990

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Dundalk Leader 3rd February 2021