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Craig calls for cycle lane markings

Dundalk says farewell to Jimmy

Page 4

Kathleen is an inspiration Page 8

Bitter blow for local Gaeilgeoirí

Wednesday, 4th November, 2020. Vol. 13, Issue 45 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

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

By Paul Byrne

The sale of the old Marist College buildings by the Marist Fathers to developers has put in serious jeopardy the possibility of opening a Dundalk based Irish medium secondary school in 2021. Local parents had spent months trying to engage with the Marist brothers with regards to matching an offer they had received from property developers but those attempts came to nothing and this week the contracts were signed to signal an end to any chance of the old Marist building being used as a Gaelcholáiste. Local parents were expectant after Dept. of Education officials confirmed a technical assessment of the old school in early June was satisfactory, coupled with reports that the Dept. had initiated preliminary discussions with the Marists re lease terms, that a new satellite Gaelcholáiste would open in Dundalk in the near future. Continued on Page 2

Two marathons in five days for Stephen O’Connor

A LOUTH man who ran two marathons in five days is calling on members of the public to donate to the Special Olympics. Stephen O’Connor from Lordship ran the first 26km marathon on Sunday, 25 October. He started at 7am and ran from Lordship to Bellurgan to Bush to Bellurgan to Bush to Lordship in 3 hours 52 minutes. Full Story on Page 2

Bitter blow for local gaeilgeoirí children Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

From Page 1 However, in early September, when the officials were able to advise the proposed school patron, (An Foras Pátrúnachta), that the proposal submitted was conditionally ap-

proved, it transpired that the Marist Fathers had received an offer to purchase the buildings from N Ireland based property developers. In spite of several attempts in September to engage with the Administrator

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of the Marist Fathers, (responsible for property estate matters) with offers to match the terms offered by the property developers, all approaches were rebuffed. It is understood that contracts have now been signed and the conveyance is in the final stages. This has resulted in the Dept Education officials advising An Foras Pátrúnachta and the parents that they will not confirm their decision on the proposal until a suitable property is available. Parents are continuing to search and identify potentially suitable properties that could be used but are working against the clock as the school registration process for Sept 2021 post-primary intake has now largely completed. The refusal by the

Marists to engage in any manner with parents and patron for a gaelcholáiste means that in spite of the hard work to date, that Dundalk children will continue to travel to Balbriggan each day in order to continue their education as currently Co Louth does not have any Irish medium education secondary school facilities. The news comes as a big blow to Irish speakers in the County with the language’s very existence in this region at threat due to the lack of a gaelcholáiste in the region. Co. Louth is home to the tenth most populous pupil county in Ireland but comes last in the number of pupils taught through Irish, with only two gaelscoileanna and no gaelcholáiste / functioning aonad or Irish

Former Coláiste Lú pupils during a protest last year streams. Planning was granted by An Bord Pleanála in Jan 2017 to the Marist Fathers to demolish the sports hall/science block and construct 25 apartments and associated works. Although the parents

committee are continuing to look for suitable sites elsewhere the window for enrolment for next September has almost closed and at best it would seem that there will be no Gaelcholáiste in Louth until 2022.

Two marathons in five days for Stephen A LOUTH man who ran two marathons in five days is calling on members of the public to donate to the Special Olympics. Stephen O’Connor from Lordship ran the first 26km marathon on Sunday, 25 October. He started at 7am and ran from Lordship

Marathon man: Stephen O’Connor.

to Bellurgan to Bush to Bellurgan to Bush to Lordship in 3 hours 52 minutes. The insurance assessor said he ran the second marathon on Friday, 30 October. He started at 6.15am and finished in 4 hours 28 minutes. He ran from Bellurgan to Jenkinstown and covered smaller roads such as Railway Village, Gyles Quay, Bush, Rathcor and

back to Lordship. “It took me a bit longer the second time around because I was tired from the first marathon. Typically, you’re supposed to take a month off after running a marathon,” said Stephen. Stephen started running in 2011 when a friend asked him to sign up for the Dundalk 10km. He has since completed 17 marathons.

The last marathon he ran was in May and he succeeded in raising €8,870 for the Special Olympics. This time around Stephen is encouraging people to text the word ‘Athlete’ to 50300 so they can donate €4 to the Special Olympics. “Running a marathon with the 5km restrictions is monotonous. It’s a mind game. Running a marathon is hard enough but it’s harder doing the same thing over and over again,” he said. “Your mind is telling you to stop more than your body. The most important thing is to stay hydrated. I was constantly hydrating.” Stephen added: “I set my alarm for 3am and got up and had my bowl of porridge. You have to eat three hours beforehand. “I feel great after doing it. It gives you a good feeling about yourself. It’s great to run early in the morning before work. It sets you up for the day.”

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Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Craig calls for better markings of cycle lanes A concerned father has called for better road signage and markings to show exactly which parts of roads and footpaths are being used for cycle lanes. Craig Corr from Slieve Roe Crescent in Muirhevnamor made the plea after his six-year old daughter, Isobella, was struck by a cyclist on Tom Bellew Avenue. The collision left Isabella with two loose front teeth, a busted lip and bruising and swelling on her nose. According to Craig they were walking on a path which had absolutely no markings or signage to indicate that it was a cycle lane. “I want to highlight to whoever is in charge of the cycle lanes in Louth County Council that more needs to be done to clearly show where exactly the cycle lanes are in town. There is a cycle lane beside us in Slieve Roe Crescent which begins at St Joseph’s Primary School in Muirhevnamor and it has clear markings there to let everybody know exactly what it is. There are also clear markings at the other end of it where it fin-

Above: Isabella Corr; Right: Isabella standing at the spot she got hit.

ishes but all the path in between this is not marked at all and I believe this is very dangerous. “If you arrived on the path anywhere between the start and end of the cycle lane you would have absolutely no idea that you were actually standing on a cycle lane. I can’t see why they can’t have markings and/or signage for the whole duration of the cycle lane to make it clear that you should not be walking on that particular piece of

road,” explained Craig. “Myself and my two young kids go for a walk every evening where we go up Tom Bellew Avenue up towards the Avenue Road. We were out last week when a bicycle came around the corner at speed towards us. He swerved to avoid me but went straight into Isabella knocking her to the ground and giving her a huge shock. We’re not blaming the cyclist as he was on a cycle lane and that’s fair enough but we do want to know why

their wasn’t clear markings to let members of the public know that they shouldn’t be walking there. She got a fair bang on the face and is nervous and afraid to go out walking since. To be honest having markings just at the start and the end of the cycle lane is not good enough and I’m hoping that something can be done about this before somebody else is badly hurt by a speeding cyclist,” stated Craig. In a statement to the Dundalk Leader, Louth County

Council stated that the different colour of the pathway was what distinguished the cycle lane and the walking path. “The Council has been in contact with this gentleman and will review the markings. The cycle lane and pathway are side by side but the pathway is made from concrete while the cycleway is bitma which is black in colour. The different colouring distinguishes one from the other,” they stated.

Dundalk says farewell to one of the giants of the bar trade One of the giants of the bar trade in Dundalk was laid to rest on Monday as friends and family said farewell to Jimmy McGeough. Jimmy had over 70 years-experience in the licensed trade and was a wellrespected and much-loved publican who ran bars such as the Jockeys in Anne Street and the Fane on Park Street. He was probably best known for owning and running the Windsor Bar on Vincent Avenue which he first opened in 1986. It was Jimmy who decided to start selling meals in the Windsor and this idea proved inspired with

the Vincent Avenue venue acquiring a reputation as one of Dundalk’s favourite places to dine in down through the years. Three of Jimmy’s sons have continued their father’s tradition of running bars in town with Eugene in charge at Kennedy’s Bar on the Carrick Road, Donal in charge at the Windsor and Andrew the owner in McGeough’s of Roden Place. Jimmy is survived by his wife Maureen and children, Seamus, Maria, Patricia, Thomas, Clare, Donal, Eugene, Andrew, Adrienne, and Freda. May he rest in peace.

The late Jimmy McGeough.

Have your voice heard on County Development Plan—McGreehan Louth Senator Erin McGreehan is calling on the public in Louth to engage with the draft County Development Plan for 2021-2027. The Draft Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 is now available online and submissions can be made on the Louth County Council website. Senator McGreehan said, “This is the plan that the Council will work to for

the next number of years. It proposes huge changes on zoning in rural areas of County Louth. It is important that we all engage to make our submissions before the deadline. Make sure your voice is heard. “Submissions or observations can be made up to and including Wednesday 23rd December, 2020. Submissions will only be accepted up to 12 noon on

Wednesday 23rd December 2020 and late submissions will not be accepted. “Submissions can be made by interest groups as well and this includes children or groups or associations representing the interests of children. So young people have a great opportunity to engage with local government and can have their say as well,” concluded Senator McGreehan.

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Irish for Biden campaign thanks Louth

Cllr Emma Coffey launches the ‘Irish for Biden’ campaign earlier this year. “The thing rocketed along. At one stage we were planning to have a small call centre based in Dundalk which was a great idea at the time but lockdown put a stop to it.” Paul added: “People started doing Zoom chats and that was far cheaper than calling on mobiles. The re-

Over hundred homeless in Louth, Cavan, Monaghan

OVER 100 people have been recorded as homeless in Louth, Cavan and Monaghan, according to a recent report. The Homeless Report reveals that there are fewer people in emergency accommodation in Louth, Cavan and Monaghan since the first lockdown. Dundalk Simon Community said it’s a stark reminder that most of the 111 people recorded as homeless in Louth, Cavan and Monaghan last month are in a second lockdown in emergency accommodation. According to the report, published by the Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government, the figure comprises a total of 102 adults, 96 of whom are single, five families and nine children. There’s been a fall in the number of families in emergency accommodation in the three North East counties since the first lockdown in March.

sponse was phenomenal. “I’m indebted to everyone and would like to thank Cllr Emma Coffey, Senator John McGahon and Louth County Council Chief Executive Joan Martin. “Our slogan ‘Call a cousin, phone a friend, ring a relative’ really cap-

tured the imagination. Everyone who got involved had great fun.” Senator John McGahon said: “I think it would be wonderful for someone with local links to be president of the United States. It would also have very good tourism potential.”

1—What historic event happened on July 20, 1969? 2—Norwegian artist Edvard Munch is famous for painting which iconic piece? 3—What is the first line of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody? 4—What date is traditionally known as Bonfire Night in Dundalk? 5—What was the name of the first Bond film which featured Sean Connery? 6—Cuba is less than a hundred miles away from which US state? 7—What famous Dundalk business first opened its doors for production in 1896? 8—What is the most common colour

of toilet paper in France? 9—Which cartoon character celebrates his 92nd birthday later this month? 10—Who is the main female character in the legendary Brown Bull of Cooley tale? Stinker—What is the collective noun for a group of unicorns?

—this week’s answers— 1—Apollo 11 landed on the moon, 2—The Scream, 3—Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?, 4—29th June, 5—Dr No, 6—Florida, 7—The Great Northern Brewery, 8—Pink, 9—Mickey Mouse, 10—Queen Maeve. Stinker: A Blessing of Unicorns.

THE lead organiser of the Irish for Biden campaign has thanked the people of Louth for their support over the past six weeks. According to Irish for Biden campaign lead organiser, Paul Allen, he is “indebted to the people of Cooley, in particular, for their support”. The Irish campaign to support Joe Biden’s bid to win the US Presidential election was formally launched in Co Louth by Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District Council, Cllr Emma Coffey. It took place at Fitzpatrick’s Bar & Restaurant in Rockmarshall, one of the locations Joe Biden visited in 2016 as Vice President. Senators John McGahon and Erin McGreehan also attended the event, along with several members of the Finnegan family, who are relatives of Joe Biden through his mother, Jean Finnegan. The Irish for Biden campaign encouraged Irish people to contact their friends and relatives in the US to get out and vote for Joe Biden on Tuesday, November 3. “It really took off. It was almost akin to pyramid selling. There was non-stop calling to family and friends in the United States,” said Paul. “The calls were expensive so we did advise people making the calls to keep it brief. Many people were surprised to learn of Biden’s links to Ireland.

Cllr Watters welcomes €50,000 funding Cllr Watters said “earlier in the year I had a road safety meeting with Louth County Council and highlighted the junction at Bush Primary School requesting road safety signs and road markings. I am delighted that the school has been awarded €13,500 to enable these works to be carried out.” There was also good news for Gyles Quay. Cllr Watters said “Local man Niall Ferguson and I met with a Council engineer earlier this year to discuss a project which would see improvements to the Gyles Quay area in the form of an upgrade. Following on from that meeting we have secured

€50,000 through Clár and we are looking forward to works starting which will see landscaping, new bins, benches and an upgrade of the public toilets.” Cllr Watters however was disappointed that his application for a bus shelter at Grange Cross, through Cooley Community Alert, was unsuccessful but promised that “I will continue to pursue all avenues until we have that bus shelter up.” Cllr Watters concluded “it is always good to see your hard work coming to fruition and this is one of those days. This is a good day Gyles Quay will get an upgrade after funding boost for the Peninsula.”

Additional €400k awarded to DKIT

€400k in funding has been awarded to DKIT further to the €871k awarded in August of this year bringing a total allocation of €1,271,000 for much needed capital works and new equipment. Simon Harris TD, has confirmed that the additional funding is part of a national announcement that will see €15 million given to higher education institutions, building on the €25m

announced by the Minister announced in August. The money will allow DkIT to upgrade equipment and carry out capital works which are needed following the effects of COVID19 this year. According to Louth TD Fergus O’Dowd the money was much needed to ensure students can return to a campus they feel is appropriate and safe. “This year has been an

extremely difficult year for students and third level institutions as the COVID 19 pandemic restrictions have filtered in to society. The government have had to invest significantly in order for students to return to campus in an environment that is appropriate and safe. “We must now look at the long term implications of restrictions being staggered over the coming months as we continue to steer our

way through this pandemic, institutions must now utilize this investment to prepare their campuses and equipment for possible longer term mitigation plans. “We must start thinking outside the box for the planning and management of future semesters. This particular funding aims to advance the development of high-end skills in the technological sector, as well as facilitating building improvements to

support access for all, health and safety works, ICT and equipment renewal, and energy-related upgrades. Minister Harris said: “The funding forms part of ongoing capital investment in the higher education sector under Project Ireland 2040. “The 2021 allocation for infrastructure development in the higher and further education sectors (excluding research) is €224.4 million – representing an increase

of 53% on the €147 million allocated for 2020. “I want to thank our third level sector for their work over the past number of weeks and months. It has not been an easy time for anyone but I am so pleased to be in a position to offer this support to them to deal with some works they may need to help return to campus or for some long-term projects.” This flexible funding pro-

vided through the Devolved Capital Grant complements other large-scale capital investments in the sector that will help expand availability of student places and transform campus infrastructure over the coming years. Funding will be provided by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science through the Higher Education Authority (HEA).

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

‘Keep Well’ campaign launched by the government An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin T.D, the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly T.D, and Minister of State for the Department of Health, with responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy, Frank Feighan T.D., have launched the “Keep Well” campaign which aims to support people and communities to mind their physical and mental health over the coming months. The Government Plan for Living with COVID-19: Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 highlights the important role that individual and community resilience will play in contributing to our ongoing response to COVID-19. The launch is a call to action to everyone across our society. It is an invitation to individuals, communities, voluntary groups, sporting organisations, those involved in creativity and the arts, local heritage and history, businesses, as well as

local and national government to find ways to support everyone to discover new activities and routines that will do us good. The “Keep Well” campaign is aimed at showing people of all ages how we can mind our own physical and mental health and wellbeing by adding healthy and helpful habits to our daily and weekly routines. It will provide guidelines, information, and tips on things that will help us keep well through the coming months. All of this will be available on gov.ie/ healthyireland This launch builds on

the “In This Together” campaign which happened earlier in the year. The “Keep Well” campaign is focussed on five main themes: Keeping active keeping active and being outdoors, even during the winter, is important to help physical and mental health and wellbeing. Staying connected - staying connected with people, addressing isolation, supporting volunteerism and initiatives that support person-to-person connection is important to our wellbeing. Switching off and being creative - switch-

ing off and being creative or learning something new, getting back to nature and finding ways to relax can help our general wellbeing. Eating Well - by nourishing our bodies and minds, we can develop a better connection between the food we eat and how we feel and positively impact our physical and mental wellbeing. Minding your mood – equipping people with information on where to go if they need support. This will also be linked with the local community helpline to ensure that people can access the support they need.

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Kathleen is an inspiration A 90-year-old Dundalk woman has been named an inspirational hero in the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards. Kathleen Lynch from Blackrock was named an inspirational hero after a nationwide search to uncover Ireland’s most inspirational people. Nominated by her granddaughter for the Inspiration Award, Kathleen’s determination and ongoing positiv-

ity stood out to the judges. Celebrating her 90th birthday during lockdown, Kathleen danced in her garden all day raising over €20,000 for Age Action Ireland and the Red Cross. “I want to lift the spirits of anyone and everyone during these gloomy days,” said Kathleen, when asked why she did it. Inspirational people from across Ireland were nominated for the Gala Retail

and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards, with 26 inspirational county heroes being named from the hundreds of entries received. Each of the 26 award-winning heroes demonstrated how they have made Ireland a better place with their selfless acts and inspirational deeds during the Covid-19 crisis, and how they have gone above and beyond for others in their local community.

Women’s Aid urges women to reach out and seek support throughout lockdown

Kathleen Lynch.

Dundalk leave Emirates with heads held high Dundalk FC left London on Thursday evening with their heads held high having given everything to the cause against Arsenal in the Emirates. Dundalk defended heroically at times and were frustrating the home side until a couple of mistakes in defence just before half time gave the Gunners a 2-0 lead going into the break. Dundalk had started the game quite comfortably and indeed had the first shot on target as Patrick McEleney’s shot forced debutant

Dundalk FC at the Emirates. (Photo Credit. Ben McShane-Sportsfile). goalkeeper Rúnar Alex Rúnarsson into conceding a corner after four minutes. However, as the game went on Arsenal began to find their rhythm as they penned the visitors back inside their own half. Two

goals in the space of two minutes from Eddie Nketiah and the impressive Joe Willock realistically put the game beyond Dundalk by half-time and when Nicolas Pépé scored a quite magical goal to

make it 3-0 immediately after the restart it was a case of damage limitation for the Lilywhites. To Dundalk’s credit they continued to fight tooth and nail for everything throughout the second half and held the

Gunners at bay for the remainder of the game to end up losing 3-0. After the game manager Filippo Giovagnoli spoke of his pride towards his players who to a man gave everything they had. “There is a little bit of disappointment,” stated Giovagnoli. “We suffered, of course. We had to suffer but I think we were well organised defensively and we didn’t concede one shot until the first goal that came from, unfortunately, a corner kick that rebounded between

our goalie and our defender. “Of course, then the quality of this fantastic Arsenal team made the difference, without a doubt. We knew it, but I want to congratulate my team and all the players for the way they collaborated, for the performance defensively.” Next up for Dundalk is a trip to Austria tomorrow evening where they will take on Rapid Vienna in a game where both sides will be looking to pick up their first points of their Europa League campaign.

Women’s Aid urges community vigilance, and encourages women to reach out and seek support as the country lockdowns with new Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. The local organisation, which operates a 24hr Helpline on 0429333244, text at 0861892439 or email at info@womensaiddlk.net are ready for an increase in contacts for the remainder of lockdown given that there was a 43% increase in calls from women who were trapped with abusers at home during the initial lockdown earlier this year. Many of whom had to come up with ingenious ways to get in touch with the organisation. Women called from their car, from the garden shed, from the bathroom with the shower running. If you are experiencing domestic abuse/coercive control Women’s Aid can help with safety planning, practical information and supports as well as crisis accommodation. A court clinic will continue to operate from Dundalk courthouse throughout lockdown. Women’s Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900 www.womensaid.ie. Support for male victims, the National Male Adviceline 1800 816 588. Details of all services available across the country can be accessed via www.stillhere.ie.

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Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

O’Murchú welcomes opening of mental health service for young

The news that the CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) will open in Dundalk town centre this week has been welcomed by Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú. The Dundalk TD has been campaigning for two years for the move, which was confirmed at a meeting of Community Health Organisation (CHO) management last Wednesday. Earl House is the location for the service, which had been previously located at the Child and Family Centre on the Dublin Road in Drogheda. Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘For the last two years, I have been to make it far easier for young pushing for the CAMHS serv- people from the town, and ice to open in Dundalk in order from North Louth, needing the

services to access them. ‘When I raised the issue at a meeting between CHO 8 management and Louth Oireachtas members, I was delighted to learn that the CAMHS will be open in Earl Street shortly. ‘CHO 8 said the project had been slightly delayed due to IT issues, but I understand the service will be open this week and that is fantastic news for the service users from this area. ‘However, it is clear there is an ongoing need for far greater resources for mental health services, particularly in the community, and I will continue to raise it with government and the HSE authorities’.

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Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Gary Rogers gives Dundalk fan a surprise call ahead of glamour tie against Arsenal

Dundalk season ticket holder Frank Carolan was treated to a wonderful surprise last Wednesday evening when the Lilywhites goalkeeper Gary Rogers called him for a chat ahead of last weeks glamour tie against Arsenal. According to Frank, Gary had just returned from training at the Emirates Stadium when he made the call. “I was sitting in the

armchair when the phone rang and the guy on the other end said he was Gary Rogers. It took me a minute to twig who it was as I know a couple of Gary Rogers and I didn’t think for a second it could be the Dundalk goalkeeper! The whole thing was organised by my son Paul who arranged for Gary to call and we had a great chat about not only football but life and family and

everything in between,” explained Frank. “It was very good of him to call me given he’ was about to play one of the biggest games of his career and when I asked him how he thought the game would go he echoed my thoughts by saying at the end of the day it’s eleven men against eleven men and anything could happen. I’ve been supporting Dundalk for many

years now dating back to when Jimmy Hasty was playing and I’m a season ticket holder. My wife Marian is a big fan too and one of her first games up in Oriel would have been the big European tie against Celtic in the early 80’s when Tommy McConville almost put Dundalk through late in the game. “It’s such a shame we can’t go to support the team and you would great-

ly miss the craic in the stands with all your fellow supporters. But we’re all in the same boat and we just have to get on with it and hope that this virus goes away sooner rather than later. We’re all looking forward to the game though and all we can ask is that Dundalk give their all and do their best,” stated Frank who was speaking ahead of Dundalk’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal.

Frank Carolan.

Mother and baby home vote ‘an abject failure of survivors’

Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD.

Louth Sinn Féin TDs Ruairí Ó Murchú and Imelda Munster were among the 67 Oireachtas members who voted against the sealing of the Mother and Baby home records last week. Speaking in Leinster House during the debate, the Dundalk TD said: ‘Mother and baby homes are part of a long history in this State. Not only did we fail women and children, but we also set up structures that attacked them, sold them, neglected them, abused them and much more. ‘We owe a debt of gratitude to the women who came forward to

the commission as witnesses. The State owes a debt to the women. We need to repay this with justice and compassion. We are talking about a State that put the women and their families through hell. ‘The great and the good, the politicians and all the institutions of the State protected this apparatus. ‘I heard many testimonies today, and all of them are absolutely heartbreaking and gut-wrenching. ‘What we do not need to do is retraumatise them. We need to find a solution that means we do not seal away the witness statements. I accept that we need solutions on ano-

nymisation. ‘That can be done but what we need to do at this point is put in place a stopgap measure. We need to legislate to give ourselves time to have an all-party solution and deal with the stakeholders, the heroic women, some of whom have led dreadful lives because they were put upon by this State. ‘I cannot state enough that we owe them a debt. We must show compassion and sensitivity and we cannot fail them once again. They are not happy that Tusla is to be the repository of the witness statements. We need to ensure a solution

that offers them justice and gives them the respect they deserve’. Sinn Féin spokesperson Kathleen Funchion TD has written to the Data Protection Commissioner after reports that the government has contravened European and Irish law regarding the accessibility of personal data by voting to seal the records of the Mother and Baby Homes. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The vote this week was an abject failure of survivors and we remain focused on a solution which provides them with the compassion, justice and fairness they deserve’.

recent deaths

Michael Gibson Bess- Hill, Almondstown, Clogh- sadly missed and remem- Catherine’s partner Pád- sadly missed by her sis- and Emma, great grand- Mullen), dear father of brook, Armagh / Dundalk, erhead and formerly of bered with love by his par- raig Larkin, relatives and ters, brothers, sisters-in- children Arla and Luna, Ciarán (Dublin), Yvonne law, brother-in-law, niec- brother Tony, sister Mary, Horkan, (Castlebar), Paul Louth. Michael (formerly Big Strand. 27th October ents Judite & Valdis, sister friends. of Dundalk and Bessbrook) 2020, Peacefully at his Juta, brothers Aigars & Jimmy McGeough “Mary- es, nephews, relatives and brothers in law, sisters in (Dublin), Eoin (Dundalk), law, nephews, nieces, ex- Ann Marie Keane (Dunpassed away peacefully at home. Patrick (Pat), prede- Maris, *sister-in-law Lau- ville” Cortial, Kilkerley, many friends. St. John’s Hospice, Newry, ceased by his parents Lau- ra*, niece, relatives, friends Dundalk and formerly of May Murtagh née Eng- tended family and friends. dalk), Kevin (Dublin) and surrounded by his devot- rence and Mary and sisters and by all who knew and Drumcay, Inniskeen, Co. lish, St Fursey’s Terrace, Lily Morrissey (née the late baby Patrick and Crescent One, loving grandad of Shaun, Monaghan. Peacefully, Blackrock, Co. Louth. Kerr), ed family, October 26th Ann and Carmel. Sadly loved him. 2020. Beloved husband of missed by his brothers Caroline Healy (née in Our Lady of Lourdes Peacefully at home sur- Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, Conor, Eimear, Cathal, NiElizabeth and much loved Gerry, Declan, Oliver and Murdock), The Lynns, An- Hospital. 30th October rounded by her family. Peacefully in Our Lady of all, Kye, Siobhán, Megan, father of John and Clare. Sean, sisters Christina and nagassan and formerly of 2020. Jimmy much loved 31st October 2020. May Lourdes Hospital 30th Oc- Sinéad, Ciara, Aedín, DarMoira, his devoted sister- Moran Terrace and Lon- husband of Maureen née was predeceased by her tober 2020. Lily, daughter ragh, Cillian, Shane and May he rest in peace. Niall O’Donnell Snr, in-law Patricia, brother-in- don. 28th October 2020. Mc Elroy, dear father of husband Peter, son Pe- of the late Thomas and Aoife and the late baby Cuchullain Terrace, Dun- law, sister-in-law,aunt Do- Peacefully at Our Lady of Seamus, Maria, Patricia, ter (Jnr) and daughter Eileen Kerr, Hughes Park, Ellen, brother of Dympna, dalk, Louth / Clonmel, reen, his many nephews Lourdes Hospital. Caro- Thomas, Clare, Donal, Eu- Miriam her brothers Patsy, beloved wife of the late Gerry, Elsie, Frank, Nuala Tipperary. Formerly of Up- and nieces, grandneph- line, predeceased by her gene, Andrew, Adrienne, Tom, William, Michael, Jimmy, dear mother of and the late Ida, Muriel, per Irishtown, Clonmel, ews, grandnieces, his very parents John and Mary- and Freda and brother of Joseph and sister Beda. Michelle, James and Adel and Maureen. Brendan Tipperary. Peacefully sur- close friends Angela, Mary Bridget, brothers Val, Julia, and Agnes, the late May will be sadly missed and granny of Patrick, will be sadly missed by rounded by his family in and Nuala, relatives and John and Gerry, and sister Thomas, Minnie, Eddie, by her loving family, chil- Trafford, Leon, Shanice, his wife, sons, daughters, Hilda. Sadly missed by her Mairead, Kathleen, Petie dren Donal, Liam, Nuala, Róisín, and Rory and great grandchildren, sons in law the kind and gentle care friends. of the staff at Beaumont Fr. John O’Leary Ardee/ husband Barry, son Jamie, and Paddy. Jimmy will be Artie, grandchildren Dav- grandchild Ellie and sister John and Dermot, daughHospital Dublin. Pre De- Collon Parish. 27th Oc- his partner Brigi, grand- sadly missed by his wife, id, Elaine, Christopher, of Anne, Eileen, Marcella, ters in law Marian, Celine, ceased by his beloved tober 2020 at the Louth daughter Amelia, sister sons, daughters, grand- Stephen, Donal, John and Paul, Siobhán and the late Sharon and Katherine, brothers-in-law, children, great-grandchil- James, great grandchil- Martin, Peter, Mary, Tho- brothers in law, sisters in wife Kitty (née Dunne) and County Hospital following Ann, cherished father of Niall a long illness. Fr. O’Leary nephews, nieces, relatives dren, sisters, sons in law, dren Adam, Liadh and mas and Phil. Lily will be law, nephews, nieces, reladaughters in law, brothers Noah, son in law Michael, sadly missed by her son, tives and friends. Óg and Olivia. Niall will be will be sadly missed by his and friends. sadly missed and remem- loving sisters Maeve and Gerard Bishop “Laragh in law, sisters in law, neph- daughters in law Joan and daughters, grandchildren, Kevin McGinley Meenagranddaughter, charvey and Dundalk. bered with love by his son, Kay, brother Peter, sister- House”, Anne Street, Dun- ews, nieces, relatives and Joan, nephews, nieces, great brothers, sisters, neph- Kevin, passed away, peacerelatives and friends. daughter, doting grand- in-law Brenda, nephew dalk. Peacefully, in Our many friends. McKeever, Eamon Murphy Garvilla ews, nieces, relatives and fully, after a short illness, children Dean, Amy, Grace and nieces Seán, Ann Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Siobhán in Our Lady of Lourdes and Evan, daughter-in-law and Deirdre, family cir- 28th October 2020. Ger- Peter O’Hagans Pub, An- House, Garrolagh, Clogh- friends. Manning Hospital, Drogheda. Much Lynda, son-in-law Colm cle, friends, special friend ard, son of the late Sea- nie’s, Kilcurry, Dundalk. erhead, Co. Louth. 30th Brendan Corrigan, brothers Gerard Canon Murphy and his pa- mus and Maisie, much Peacefully in The Louth October 2020. Peace- Beech Park, Blackrock, loved brother of Pádraig, & Brian, sisters Lily & Rita, rishioners, fellow priests, loved husband of the late County Hospital. 30th fully at his home. Eamon, Co Louth and formerly of Seán, Peter, Enda, Máire sisters-in-law, brothers-in- Archbishop Eamon Martin, Claire (née Brodigan), dear October 2020. Siobhán predeceased by his wife Phibsboro, Co Dublin and (Philadelphia) and Anna law, nieces, nephews, ex- Cardinal Seán Brady and father of Gerry and Cath- much loved daughter of Jue and sister Berna- Athlone Co Westmeath. (California). He will be erine, loving grandfather the late Brian and Rose Mc dette. Sadly missed by his Peacefully, in the wonder- sadly missed by his sisters tended family, neighbours Bishop Michael Router. & friends especially in the Mareks Klavins late of Aoife. Gerard will be Keever, Seatown, Dundalk daughters Isabelle and ful care of Castleross Nurs- in law, his brothers in law, Greyhound and GAA com- of Latvia and, Dundalk, sadly missed by his son, and dear sister of Gráinne Hilary, sons in law John ing Home, 31st October nieces and nephews and Louth. Suddenly, in Oulu, daughter, granddaugh- Kavanagh, Úna, Brían and and Frank, grandchildren 2020. Brendan, beloved a large circle of relatives, munities. Patrick Burke Castlecoo Finland. Mareks will be ter, daughter in law Amy, Ronan. Siobhán will be Gerard, Sean, Aimee, Ross husband of Kathleen (née neighbours and friends.

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Family Notices novena

in memory of the dollard and callan families

dollard Joseph In loving memory of Joseph Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 28th November, 2008, aged 86 years. Rest in peace.

dollard mary (kitty) In loving memory of Mary Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 12th January, 2020, aged 94 years. Rest in peace.

dollard elizabeth In loving memory of Elizabeth Dollard, late of 23, Parnell Park, Dundalk, who died 14th March, 1965, aged 74 years. Rest in peace.

dollard peter In loving memory of Peter Dollard, late of 23, Parnell Park, Dundalk, who died 6th March, 1967. Rest in peace.

dollard gerard In loving memory of Gerard Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 8th November, 2000, aged 58 years. Rest in peace.

dollard joe In loving memory of Joe Dollard, late of 58, Market Street, Dundalk, who died 10th November, 2011, aged 62 years. Rest in peace.

Callan joseph In loving memory of Joseph Dollard, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 19th March, 1955, aged 54 years. Rest in peace.

Callan christina In loving memory of Christina Dollard, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 15th June, 1969, aged 68 years. Rest in peace.

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). M.D. 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). J.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). K.McD.

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

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PROPERTY/RENTALS

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ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber. ie. ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501. MOBILE CHIROPODY in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry, MCHs, HCPC reg. Tel 087 192 4794. ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827. Carpentry & Joinery maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110. MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702. CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning. ie. Retired reliable local man with Safe Pass available for Painting & Decorating, Internal and External,30 years’ experience, also grass cutting, strimming. General Garden Maintenance and Garage Clearance. Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472. Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633. Painting & Decorating—interior and exterior, over 10 years experience, no job too big or too small, for free quotations Tel Ian 087 415 8238. References available. Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com. BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529. Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508. SC Tiling—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane 0861075080. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

Dundalk Paint Store—Longwalk Tel 042 938 6948 Eircode A91T2HE Stockists of All Leading Brands, Full selection of Radiators Covers. Home Delivery Service. GENERAL GARDEN SERVICES—Hedge & grass cutting, garden tidy up & power washing. Tel 085 172 6520.

articles for sale Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have, Sofas from €299, Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader. CD Logs—Kiln Dried Ash/Oak & Birch, Weekly Deliveries to Dundalk & surrounding areas. Newry Co. Down Mob 00 44 77 6040 3254 or 048 30269632 www.cdlogs.com.

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €65 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www. everkleenservices.ie. HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie. TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote. DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish RemovalS/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085840-7707. FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-6751229. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

articles wanted

WANTED—Old Dundalk Memorabilia wanted including Tempest Annuals, 1916 related items & pub memorabilia. Please contact Robert on 087 7683547.

situations wanted

VOLUNTEER DRIVER—Available to transport Cancer patients to and from Hospital/Clinic. Highly experienced in this care. Reference available. Fuel contribution requested. Tel Carmel 00447923-192799.

planning notice

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Ian Reilly, intend to apply for Permission for development at The Cottage, Hoey’s Lane, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: Permission to demolish the existing dwelling house and replace with a new bungalow style dwelling, connection to all existing services. Construction to include all associated site development works. 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: Herr Engineering & Design Ltd., Unit 7 Blackthorn Business Park, Coes Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. 042-9330262; E-mail reception@herreng.com Web: www.herreng.com.

ADVERTISE in our classifieds to over 60,000 readers from only€5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

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Metals

Francesca Di Mattina.

News

in Brief Hallowe’en Fires

Dundalk firefighters attended a number of small fires over the Halloween weekend in Louth village, Dromiskin, Blackrock, Gyles’ Quay and Lordship. A skip was also set alight on the Kells Road in Ardee.

Road Closures A section of the Inner Relief Road, Dundalk will be closed (both lanes) from Monday Night 2nd November to Friday Night 6th November 2020 to facilitate essential Road re-surfacing works. The section, from just South of the Barrack St junction to just North of the Quay St junction, will be closed from 19.00hrs to 05.00hrs each night Diversions will be in place.

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Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

Francesca invited to take part in prestigious cultural project by Dublin City Council Francesca Di Mattina (aka Fran Murphy) has been invited to take part in a prestigious cultural appreciation project run by Dublin City Council. The Pearse Park resident who is originally from New York is a senior retired educationalist and says she was honoured to be asked to take part in the project. “I was hugely honoured to take part in this fantastic project and it was a special honour as I believe almost everybody else who was in-

vited is from Dublin City,” explained Francesca. Prior to the Covid lockdown, Francesca had been a regular visitor to many of Dublin’s cultural attractions having spent the last 52 years of her life travelling down to Dublin to enjoy the museums, galleries and historical sculptures as well as all aspects of the city’s thriving culture. This deep-rooted love of culture saw her invited to take part in the National Neighbourhood Project that was

launched a few years ago with the aim of bringing people together from across the city. In 2020, COVID19 saw it move online for a 12 week virtual project and involved the collaboration of cultural partners and artists-exploring all that the city has to offer and keeping ordinary people connected through culture and conversation. Francesca explained that the project featured weekly discovery sessions and conversations on everything from

history and heritage to visual art, music, theatre, performance, dance and more. “It is an opportunity for us to share our own love of culture, but also to critique some aspects, which had been really enjoyable,” stated Francesca. The Pearse Park resident was singled out to give a zoom interview on the presentations from both the National Library of Ireland and the National Gallery of Ireland on the works of the artist George Wallace. This interview will

now become part of the National Archives. A spokesperson for the Dublin City Council initiative stated “At the end of the project, Francesca and the other participants will identify their next creative or cultural steps, whether that is through developing a project idea with Dublin City Culture Company, engaging in one of our other programmes or using their new connections to the city’s cultural resources to continue their own adventure.”

Louth Science Festival to take place online Louth Library Service has announced the full free programme for their 3nd Louth Science Festival, which is taking place online for 2020. Louth Science Festival celebrates, explores and promotes the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths

(STEAM) and communicates its relevance in our everyday lives and society. Louth Science Festival will run from 10th to 21st November and will offer an exciting range of opportunities to engage in and showcase Science. The Festival aims to nurture an interest in STEAM subjects, is funded

by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and supported by Louth County Council. The Festival offers FREE creative, innovative and inspiring events for primary schools, secondary schools and the general public. This year, the events will be online, taking place through ZOOM workshops

and Video workshops. The Adult Events for the general public include interesting and current topics, such as “Healthy, Wholesome and Hasty” Virtual Cookery Class with Tara Walker, “The Science of Building Positive Relationships with Your Teenager” with Aoife Lee, “Sleep – What Every

Parent Needs To Know” with Lucy Wolfe, “Online Safety and Digital Wellbeing” with CyberSafeIreland. For Families, the very popular “Lego Brickx Virtual Workshop” with the Brickx Club, “Amazing Invertebrates with Dublin Zoo” and “Junior Einstein Virtual Workshop” with Junior Ein-

stein’s Science Club. The full programme is available on https://www.louthcoco. ie/en/services/library/louthscience-festival/ Booking is Essential as places are limited. Please contact Dundalk Library 042 9353190 or email: libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco. ie #Believeinscience.

An Táin presents The University of Wonder & Imagination An Táin Arts Centre will present an online, live, interactive theatre experience for all the family this Friday at 6pm and 6:30pm. The ‘University of Wonder & Imagination’ is now enrolling students of all ages and magical abilities...and there’s a place with your name on it! This fun, interactive experience takes place live in your own home via the magic of digital technology. Journey to the most unusual of universities, meet the mysterious Professor Bamberg, choose your subjects of study, enter themed rooms, encounter problems and puzzles and

unlock your magical powers. In this ambitious new type of immersive event, Cahoots NI broadcast live on Zoom from a purposebuilt set where decisions made by the audience shape each unique experience. Tickets €10 per Family/Pod (plus €1.50 booking fee) Tickets must be prebooked and will not be available on the day of the event. You can purchase tickets at the box office at An Táin Arts Centre on Crowe Street, Dundalk, over the phone on 042 9332332 or online at www.antain.ie

Cahoots bring ‘The Univesity of Wonder and Imagination’ to An Táin Arts Centre in Dundalk

Louth County Council present ‘Celebrate Pipes’ video

Brendan McCreanor and Patrick Martin feature in Louth County Council video.

The Arts Service of Louth County Council is delighted to present Celebrate Pipes – a short video featuring local Uilleann Pipers Brendan Mc Creanor and Patrick Martin. Funded by Louth County Council and the Arts Council, It was commissioned by the Arts Office as part of its Arts in Schools Programme, to recognise the inclusion of Uilleann Piping on the UNESCO list of Intangible Culture Heritage in 2017. Originally designed as live

workshop visits to schools, the programme could not proceed this year and the content was filmed instead for use in the classroom. The Celebrate Pipes video link will be circulated to secondary schools in Louth today, and will be of particular interest to second level music students. It has great potential for use as an educational resource for music teachers, as it will link in with the curriculum covering traditional arts. While it is not the same as a live visit

by musicians, it will create an awareness and understanding of the art of Uilleann piping, in addition to showcasing excellent musical performances from two Louth musicians. Saturday 7th November is International Uilleann Piping Day 2020 and there are streamed events organised by Na Píobairí Uilleann and can be watched all day via their website and facebook platrforms. https://pipers.ie/ event-single/internationaluilleann-piping-day-2020/

Councils issue a joint appeal for COVID-19 vigilance Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Laura Devlin and An Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Dolores Minogue have come together to urge people in both Council areas to continue to do all they can to curb the spread of COVID-19. While both counties have different restrictions in place, the Council leaders are conscious that as neighbouring counties, the residents of each have a role in helping keep each other safe. They are therefore appealing for residents in both Louth and Newry, Mourne and Down to adhere to their respective government guidelines.

Newry, Mourne and Down Cllr Dolores Minogue. District Council Chairperson, Cllr Laura Devlin appealed to the difficult Autumn and winter everyone keep the momentum ahead.” going at this critical juncture. An Cathaoirleach of Louth “The past months have been County Council, Cllr Dolores difficult for so many of us across Minogue said “The people of this island, but we need your Louth have reacted positively to help to keep going and keep all the measures introduced but COVID-19 under control. As this positivity needs to continue neighbours in the East Border for the foreseeable future. Please Region let’s continue to work continue to follow the restrictogether and help each other to tions in place, keep your social help fight COVID-19. distance and minimise your con“Residents in Northern Ireland tacts. If we can achieve this we are being asked to avoid all un- will all have a safe and pleasant necessary travel. Please also ob- Christmas hopefully.” serve the small things that make The latest information on the the big difference – wash your NI Executive restrictions can be hands, keep your distance, wear found here: https://www.nidia face covering where required, rect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirusand for those in Newry, Mourne covid-19-regulations-guidanceand Down download the STOP- what-restrictions-mean-you Covid NI app. The latest information on the “We all have a big role to play restrictions applicable to Louth in reducing the strain on our can be found at :https://www. hospitals and getting through gov.ie

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020

THIS year’s Movember Ireland campaign, Lockdown – Shave Down – Get Down, is calling on people to sign up, grow a moustache or take on the Move challenge: to walk/run 60km during November - 60 being the number of men lost to suicide every hour globally. About 10,000 people so far have signed up for the 2020 Ireland campaign and 90% are growing moustaches. “There are Mo sisters – lots of them, women with dads, husbands and brothers, men in their lives who they want to live longer, so we want to give women something to do too and that’s the Move challenge,” said Movember Ireland director Jack O’Connor. Men are asked to invite friends to support their shave down efforts by sharing their progress on social media – film it, snap it, share it. Do tag Movember and use #Shavedown Visit ie.movember. com for more information and check out www. mariekeating.ie/standupforyourprostate/ for information and support on prostate cancer.

October New Car Registrations slightly up

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today released their official new vehicle registrations statistics. New car registrations for October seen an increase of 6.2% (2,315) when compared to October 2019 (2,179). While registrations year to date are down25.2% (86,870) on the same period last year (116,124). Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are up 56.2% (1,667) compared to October last year (1,067) and year to date are down 15.3% (20,587). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are up 15.7% (155) in comparison to October 2019 (134). However, year to date HGV's are down 21.5% (1,951). Used car imports for October (9,315) have seen a decrease of 18.7% on October 2019 (11,457). While year to date imports are down 37.7% (58,504) on 2019 (93,892).

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commented:“October new car and light commercial vehicle registrations are broadly in line with the same month last year. However, like many other retail sectors, overall this year has been hugely difficult due to COVID-19, with new car sales down 25% year to date. With car showrooms closed for the next number of weeks due to Government COVID-19 restrictions, retailers have been enhancing their online presence, particularly with the month of November being the key selling period for forward orders for the new registration plate in January. Manufacturers and retailers are already offering generous incentives for customers to buy a new car. With the ongoing impact of COVID and the impending Brexit

deadline fast approaching it is vital that the Government continue to support business in this uncertain trading environment.” 2020 Total New Vehicle Stats New car sales year to date (2020) 86,870 v (2019) 116,124 -25.2% New car sales total October (2020) 2,315 v (2019) 2,179 +6.2% Light Commercial Vehicles sales year to date (2020) 20,587 v (2019) 24,312 -15.3% Light Commercial Vehicles sales total October (2020) 1,667 v (2019) 1,067 +56.2% Heavy Goods Vehicle total sales year to date (2020) 1,951 v (2019) 2,484 -21.5% Heavy Goods Vehicle sales total October (2020) 155 v (2019) 134 +15.7% Used Car Imports total year to date (2020) 58,504 v (2019) 93,892 -37.7%

Used Car Imports total October (2020) 9,315 v (2019) 11,457 -18.7% Electric Vehicle sales year to date (2020) 3,867 v (2019) 3,220 +20.09% Electric Vehicles Car total October (2020) 254 v (2019) 246 +3.25% 5 Top Selling Car Brands 2020 were: 1. Volkswagen 2. Toyota 3.Hyundai 4.Skoda 5.Ford 5 Top car model’s year 2020 were 1. Toyota Corolla 2. Hyundai Tucson 3. Volkswagen Tiguan 4. Ford Focus 5. Hyundai Kona. Top Selling Car October 2020: Volkswagen ID Market share by engine type 2020: Diesel 43.1% Petrol 37.12% Hybrid 11.93%, Electric 4.45%, Plug-in Hybrid 2.78% Louth: 2020 unit sales = 2093. 2019 unit sales to date = 2633. Change = -20.58%.

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

042 9331515/086 2559201

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Pay parking fines down by over €100,000 The ongoing pandemic has hit many businesses hard and Louth County Council have not been immune to the effects of COVID with the lockdown earlier in the year ensuring that the local authority have missed out on over €100,000 worth of parking fines due to less cars being on the road earlier this year. In 2019 up to the end of September the local authority generated approximately €260,000 worth of parking fines from

people in County Louth. However this year up to the end of last month Louth County Council had taken in just under €150,000 which is over €100,000 less than last year’s figure. The losses come at a time when Louth County Council are struggling for funding as outlined during last month’s monthly chamber meeting when Chief Executive Joan Martin warned councillors of the extent

of losses in local governments across the country. According to Ms Martin losses this year are estimated to be in the region of €168 million while 2021 could see them rise as high as €367 million. At that meeting the chief executive had urged councillors to increase the rate of property tax to help offset that shortfall in funding but to her dismay councillors voted unanimously not to increase the tax.

For All Car Parts & Accessories Headlamps, Panels, Bumpers & Grills

For All Your Winter Motoring Needs Anti-Freeze, Coolant, De-Icer Etc.

T. 042 9331555/9331006 The Ramparts, Dundalk (formerly Martin's Garage)

Dundalk Leader 4th November 2020