06-08-2025

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Feature: Understanding the court system in Dundlak

Meals On Wheels expand local services

Plaque unveiled to remember Miami Showband massacre

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Wednesday, 6th August, 2025. Vol. 18, Issue 32 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888 | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Strapped for cash

Students at breaking point over costs of accommodation

By Paul Byrne THE DkIT Student’s Union President has told the Dundalk Leader of the severe challenges faced by students to pay for accommodation in Dundalk.

Gerry O’Brien revealed that he, along with a number of student union President’s from all over Ireland, will meet with Minister for Further and Higher, Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless next month to demand something be done to get costs down.

Gerry, a Sport, Exercise and Enterprise student, who was elected as President this year having been the Vice President for Student Engagement last year, says that the issues around accommodation in Dundalk are a bit different to what is happening across the country.

“Believe it or not we don’t actually have an issue with the amount of available accommodation for stu-

dents as is the case in most other places across Ireland. We have enough accommodation but the problem is the cost of it is just far too high and students are struggling very badly not only with their finances but with their mental health. DkIT don’t actually own any accommodation for students in Dundalk. The DkIT oncampus accommodation is managed

by DNG Duffy and consist of Greenpark Apartments which are six single bedroom units with shared kitchen/ bathroom and living area. There are also Greenpark Houses with six individual ensuite bedrooms where you will be sharing a large communal area and a double kitchen.

“There are also older, cheaper accommodation in the form of Mourne View and Setanta student accommodation and they are mainly used by Louth Ladies celebrate after they defeated Antrim by two points in international students.

Continued on Page 2 the All Ireland Junior Championship final in Croke Park on Sunday.

Louth ladies are All-Ireland champs

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Students at breaking point over costs of accommodation

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From Page 1 “The students pay €520 a month for the apartments and €750 a month for the houses. On top of that they have to pay for utilities, food etc and you are probably talking about €1100 a month at least just to survive. When you take into account that the student grant is €360 a month it’s clear that it’s not feasible for many students to live in college without having to worry about money. DkIT has become somewhat f a commuter college with many students opting to stay living at home and commute which can involve getting maybe getting up at six or seven o’clock and getting maybe two buses to get to the college in time for lectures.

“The cost of student rent combined with the cost of living crisis is something that we will be bringing up with Minister Lawless when we meet him in a few weeks. Last year we saw the Minister cut undergratuate fees by €1000

Gerry O’Brien, DkIT Student’s Union President. which was a great help but he has recently stated that they will be re-introduced again this year and that is something we are not happy about.

So many students, including those who don’t receive financial support from their families are going to be very hurt by this. Most students are already working at least two jobs and to be honest the old way of student life where you would see hundreds of students out socialising in town during the week is all but gone.

“They can’t afford to go out anymore and that’s a real shame. House parties is the main form of socialising now as it is much cheaper. In my opinion that is actually very sad as they are losing a lot of the social aspect of college.

Going to college is a journey of discovery and finding yourself and to put these struggles on the students of today who are the drivers of the industry of tomorrow is going to cause problems for our country going forward,” stated Gerry.

“Students are sometimes being faced with the choice of paying an ESB bill or buying food for the week to eat.

“We will be telling the Minister that we want the reintroduction of the €1000 fees to be scrapped and we will also be asking him to address the price of accommodation for students. We have counselling services in the college and we have seen a huge increase in appointments and that is mainly down to financial pressures faced by students. We are not being unreasonable and the issues that students are currently facing need to be acknowledged. We are looking for a decrease in student fees and an increase in grants at the very least and if these two basic needs aren’t met there will be escalations,” warned Gerry.

Meanwhile the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has issued a warning to students to be cautious of rental scams.

As with previous years, a

Specialist health nurses could protect children states Ó Murchú

SPECIALIST health nurses trained in child protection who visit families when children are young could help prevent ‘disaster scenarios’ with Tusla later on, Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has said.

The Sinn Féin TD spoke about early family interventions at the Oireachtas Children’s Committee over the last number of weeks and highlighted how specialised public health nurses to which every child in the country gets access in the early years, a key recommendation in the national early years policy framework, has not been implemented yet.

Tulsa, the Children’s Rights

Alliance and the Ombudsman for Children were among the witnesses before the committee ahead of the Dáil recess.

Deputy Ó Murchú spoke about the case of missing child Kyran Durnin and also highlighted the need for early interventions.

He said: ‘With all the good work and projects that are out there, there is significant need, particularly where drugs meet poverty and chaos.

‘It is about the facility to catch the issues. We know of plenty of cases where sometimes we are too late to the table.

‘Specialist public health nurses who could catch issues

to make sure referrals happen early were mentioned. Sometimes as early as possible means pre-birth.

‘The other piece involves ensuring we have the correct intervention and that it happens early enough. We have all come across cases where the intervention took too long.

‘I get the idea of keeping families together, but children have been left in really precarious circumstances. In the past week or two, I have dealt with constituents who spoke about drug-dealing party houses. There is a child protection issue regarding children being brought up

there - if that is even the correct term. I have a feeling that we fail to take enough action.

‘We had the Children’s Rights Alliance in here and it spoke of the necessity of having specialised health nurses, and I think there is a plan for that.

‘The idea was that every child and every family would have access to such a nurse and problems could be caught early. We have an insufficient number of interventions and family support inventions that are absolutely necessary.

If we could have some of these in play, we might not need Tusla to do some of the more Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. difficult pieces later’.

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shortage of rental accommodation has left students under pressure to find a place to live, creating the perfect conditions for rental scams.

Last year, An Garda Síochána reported that about one third of all accommodation fraud reports occur during August and September, with 34% of victims aged under 25, and 66% aged under 33. It was also reported that 54% of those who experienced accommodation fraud were male, and 46% were female.

A rental accommodation scam will usually try to trick students out of their money by pretending to offer them a property or room to rent.

Scammers will generally advertise a rental property at a much lower price to draw in potential victims and will often offer a rental without any questions asked. Real landlords will typically want to verify references before considering renting to anyone.

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UNDERSTANDING THE COURT SYSTEM IN DUNDALK

By Darren Crawley ONE of the most prominent landmarks in the town of Dundalk is of course The Courthouse.

Right next to Market Square, it is an imposing building with some beautiful architecture.

However, if the population were asked what exactly goes on in there, the majority wouldn’t have a great knowledge of it. One thing about life is that we are always learning and there are many avenues to go down to find the information we seek.

The court system in Ireland can seem complex to read about and understand however when broken down into locality, it isn’t that daunting. So how do the courts in Dundalk work?

The first thing that should be known is that there are two class of court in Dundalk.

The District Court and The Circuit Court.

The District Court is the lowest in Ireland’s court system but its impact is wide-ranging and

The exterior of Dundalk Courthouse. essential to the day-today administration of justice in Ireland.

In Dundalk, the District Court handles a broad array of cases, many of which affect local residences directly.

These include minor offences, small civil disputes, family law matters and local licensing issues.

On the civil side, the District Court in Dundalk hears disputes involving amounts of up to €15,000. These can range from unpaid debts and breaches of contract to property damage.

The court also deals

with licensing matters such as applications and renewals for publican and bookmaker licences - particularly relevant in a town like Dundalk, which boasts a vibrant and growing hospitality sector.

In family law, the court deals with issues such as maintenance, access and guardianship, and protection orders, offering a vital legal service to families in crisis.

It plays a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, especially in urgent situations.

Above the District Court is the Circuit

The atrium inside Dundalk Courthouse.

Court, which in Dundalk handles more serious and complex matters.

Dundalk is part of the North Eastern Circuit, which also includes counties Cavan, Monaghan and Meath.

In criminal cases, the Circuit Court hears indictable offences such as burglary, assault causing harm, and fraud. These serious matters typically involve a jury and are presided over by a Circuit Court judge. Sentences can be substantial, depending on the nature of the offence and circumstance of the case.

The Circuit Court can

also hear civil cases involving claims between €15,001 - €75,000 (or €60,000 in personal injury cases). These cases often involve more complex disputes between individuals, businesses, or organisations and are heard by a judge sitting alone, without a jury.

Common examples include breach of contract claims, property disputes, and professional negligence actions. The Circuit Court provides a vital forum for resolving such matters efficiently while ensuring fair legal process for all parties involved.

However, the more serious crimes - such as murder, manslaughter and rape - are beyond the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court. These are dealt with by the Central Criminal Court in Dublin.

This tiered system ensures that cases are handled at the appropriate level of the judiciary, balancing efficiency with the seriousness of each matter. It also ensures consistency and fairness across the wider justice system.

In family law, the Circuit Court in Dundalk deals with divorces, ju-

dicial separations, and nullity applications.

These proceedings are conducted in private to protect the sensitive nature of family matters.

The court plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes involving the division of property, child custody and access arrangements, guardianship rights, and spousal or child maintenance.

Its decisions can have lasting effects on families’ futures, making it a significant part of the legal landscape.

Another key function of the Circuit Court is its appellate jurisdiction. If someone wishes to appeal a decision from the lower District Court whether it be a criminal or civil matter - it is the Circuit Court that hears such appeal.

This appeal hears the case as if it has never been tried before. This process is known as “de novo”. This allows the appellant a full rehearing, ensuring that errors or unfairness at the District Court level can be properly addressed and corrected if necessary.

In doing so, the Circuit Court plays a critical role in upholding justice and maintaining public confidence in the legal system.

Together in Dundalk, the District and Circuit Courts provide a structured yet accessible route to justice for the people of County Louth and the region. With sittings held regularly at Dundalk Courthouse, the legal system is brought close to the community that it serves.

Judges, legal practitioners, Gardai and court staff all play their own role in ensuring that justice is administered fairly, efficiently and accurately in accordance with Irish law.

Every day on the national news you will see the High Court and Supreme Court deal with significant cases across the country, it is the District and Circuit Courts – such as the ones we see in Dundalk – that form the backbone of justice in Ireland.

Ancillary report funded by Coimisiún na Meán’s Courts Reporting Scheme

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Louth see of Saffron challenge to claim All-Ireland junior football title

By Daire Walsh

LOUTH .......................... 0-13 ANTRIM ......................... 1-08 KATE Flood kicked four points at Croke Park on Sunday as Louth held off a stubborn challenge from Antrim to claim a record fourth TG4 AllIreland junior football championship title.

It was the Ulster side who initially hit the ground running in GAA HQ with team skipper Bronagh Devlin superbly drilling a third-minute penalty into the roof of the Louth net after Theresa Mellon was adjudged to have been fouled inside the square off a Maria O’Neill free that dropped short.

Mellon followed up with a fine point for the Saffrons and even though Louth, who lost to Fermanagh in last year’s junior decider, eventually opened their account through Aoife Russell, Omolara Dahunsi reinforced Antrim’s early authority by splitting the posts at the opposite end.

Dahunsi also found the range in response to back-toback points from Louth corner-forwards Russell and Ceire Nolan, but in the temporary absence of Bronagh Devlin for a yellow card offence, the Wee County cut their deficit to the bare minimum with impressive contributions from Flood and Shannen McLaughlin.

Although Antrim sharp-

shooter O’Neill was on target not long after Devlin’s return, unanswered points by captain Aine Breen and the ever-dependable Flood (two) ensured Louth brought a 0-8 to 1-4 cushion into the interval.

Antrim were still very much in the reckoning, however, and the team jointly-managed

by Chris Scullion and Michael Devlin were back on level terms with a second point from O’Neill three minutes into the second period.

This effort squeezed O’Neill ahead of Hannah Tyrrell in the race for the ZuCar Golden Boot – in advance of the Dublin star’s appearance in the TG4 All-Ireland senior football championship final later

in the afternoon – but centreforward Eimear Byrne was on hand to restore Louth’s slender lead on 38 minutes.

An outstanding score from the increasingly-influential Flood left Louth two points to the good moving into the finalquarter and they were a step closer to another junior crown when Breen and substitute Mia Duffy added points in the 47th and 49th minutes respectively.

Lucy White subsequently increased Louth’s cushion and even though a late surge from Antrim produced three points on the bounce by Ana Mulholland, Mellon and O’Neill (a goal-bound effort that was deflected over the bar), the Wee County ultimately prevailed in

the end.

Scorers – Louth: K Flood 0-4, A Breen, A Russell 0-2 each, S McLaughlin, L White, E Byrne, C Nolan, M Duffy 0-1 each.

Antrim: M O’Neill 0-3 (1f), B Devlin 1-0 (pen), T Mellon, O Dahunsi 0-2 each, A Mulholland 0-1.

LOUTH: R Lambe Fagan; R Beirth, E Hand, E Murray; H Lambe Sally, S McLaughlin, L Byrne; A Breen, A Halligan; L White, E Byrne, S Matthews; A Russell, K Flood, C Nolan.

Subs: M Duffy for Matthews (42), L Collins for Russell (56), G McCrave for Lambe Sally, Z Sweeney for White (both 59).

Louth captain Áine Breen lifts The West County Hotel cup after her side’s victory in the TG4 All-Ireland Ladies Football Junior Championship final.

LEADER funding for Ardee and District Cancer Support

Ciaran Reid, Chief Executive of Louth Local Development, Mary O’Neill, LEADER Manager of Louth Local Development, Rose McCusker, Patricia Roddy, Finbar Gethins, Chief Officer of Louth Local Community Development Committee, Rachel Quirke.

THIS week, Louth Local Community Development Committee signed a contract with Ardee & District Cancer Support Group for an exciting new project in the centre of Ardee. The project will see the refurbishment of the ‘Old Dispensary’ into a state-of-theart support centre for patients and families who are affected by cancer. Grant aid in the sum of €198,174 was awarded from the

LEADER programme.

Chief Officer of Louth Local Community Development Committee, Finbar Gethins says ‘that this development will be a massive boost to the people of Ardee and surrounding areas’.

Ciaran Reid, Chief Executive of Louth Local Development welcomed the news and congratulated the group on their work over the last five years and said, ‘that

today should be a proud day for all the committee’.

Chairperson of Ardee & District Cancer Support Group, Rose McCusker stated ‘that the committee have worked tirelessly for five years to get to this stage and she thanked the numerous people and organisations that helped with fundraising for this centre’.

It is anticipated that the project should be completed by late 2026.

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

Dundalk Meals on Wheels expand their service

MEALS on Wheels have been an invaluable part of the social fabric of Dundalk for more than five decades, delivering up to 240 hot meals plus dessert to the elderly, vulnerable and housebound each week for those living in the town.

Traditionally the service catered for residents who lived in Dundalk town roughly catering for those living between the Fairways going south and the Lisdoo going north. Theresa Loughman, Dundalk social services secretary, has revealed that the service will now expand and deliver to those living in more rural areas thanks to an innovative link up with local company Nude Foods. The new service now delivers to Cooley, Annagassan, Togher, Clogherhead (Mondays) Ardee and Dunleer (Tuesdays), Dromiskin, Castlebellingham, Kilsaran, Knockbridge, Louth Vilage, Tallnstown (Thursdays) and Dundalk, Blackrock, Kilkerley, Kilcurry on Fridays.

According to Theresa the expansion came about as a result of numerous enquiries down through the years about deliveries outside Dundalk town.

“It was clear that there was a need to provide a service for those living in more rural areas but we needed

Meals on Wheels volunteer cooks and drivers at a recent information meeting. a partner on board and thanks to very constructive talks with local company Nude Foods we have now expanded our services to cater for those people living outside Dundalk,” explained Theresa.

“We started the new routes in May and it’s been going great so far. The idea was formulated initially by myself, Catherine Doherty, (President of the Dundalk Lions Club) and Karen Coan (Alone) and their experience and support has been invaluable. All meals cost €4 including delivery and this is a discounted price for Meals on Wheels sponsored by Nude Foods.

To become a member of Dundalk Meals on Wheels

it is important to note that you need to be referred from either your Public Health Nurse, Care Provider or GP. Please ask them to phone us on 0429332848 or 0873163545 by Wednesday for delivery the following week. The driver delivering your meals can take payment on delivery, by card or cash at the door. You can also set up a direct debit or Revolut account with Nude Foods directly if you prefer.

“Along with the expansion of Meals on Wheels we have also begun distributing a monthly newsletter which is delivered along with the meals once a month and it is basically a leaflet letting people know what services are available to them and

how to contact them. It has proven very popular and it is part of our main aim, which is to support independent living to our elderly.

“Our Meals on Wheels service in Dundalk continues to cook and deliver meals from Muirhevnamór Community Centre and we would like to thank the management and staff in the centre for all of their help and assistance in accommodating Rose McCartney and the volunteers with the Meals on Wheels service. The shortfall in meals required in Dundalk , is met by Conlon’s Food Hall, and we would like to thank Chris, Debbie and their team for their support.

There is a dedicated team of volunteer cooks and drivers

who operate the service in the town, without the support and commitment of our volunteers we would be unable to operate the town service. We are constantly seeking volunteer drivers in order to sustain the town service. The volunteer commitment is two hours per month on a Monday Wednesday or Saturday. Any offers to help would be greatly appreciated (0429332848),” stated Theresa.

“In the month of September, the annual fundraising events such as our flag day collection and church gate collection take place. If you are in a position to give an hour of your time to help out at any of these collections we would be delighted to have your support. Following the recent retirement of Rotary Club of Dundalk, we would like to express our sincere thanks to them for their years of support and service to the Meals on Wheels service,” concluded Theresa.

Speaking to the Dundalk Leader about the recent partnership with Dundalk Meals on Wheels, Nude Fods general manager, Darren O’Hanrahan, said it was a pleasure to link up with such an important local service.

“Our sales guy Chris had

the idea of popping into some local nursing homes with some meals and that caught a bit of traction and from there we got talking to Theresa from Meals on Wheels Dundalk who spoke to us about their desire to expand their services to rural areas. We showed them what we could provide and we offered a reduced price of just €4 a meal which includes home delivery and sees our drivers going into the home with the elderly person to give them instructions or to even just have a wee chat.

“We are a local company from Dundalk and I’m a Dundalk man so it’s fantastic for us to be able to help such a brilliant organisation as Meals on Wheels Dundalk to expand their service.

I’m mainly based in the office but I’ve done a few deliveries for this new expanded service from Meals on Wheels Dundalk and it’s just very rewarding to get to chat with the people at the door and getting to know them. It wouldn’t be a very profitable venture for us but this is more about the community aspect of it all and as I said we are delighted to be a part of it and we hope the partnership will last for many years to come,” stated Darren.

QUIZ 1—Who announced this week that they plan to build a $200m ballroom at their residence?

2—In the nursery rhyme, what was old Mother Hubbard looking for in her cupboard?

3—On August 1, 1833 – An act passed in parliament abolished what practice across the British Empire?

4—What is the name given to a poker hand where all cards are of thesame suit, but not in running order?

5—Denis “Dee” O’Kane, and Jimmy Hamilton managed and ran which popular Dundalk venue from the 1950’s to the 1970’s?

6—Who is the patron Saint of Wales?

7—What is `hi-fi` short for?

8—What word is used to describe animals which can live on land or in water?

9—What is France`s largest vehicle manufacturer?

10—What is photophobia a fear of?

Stinker—Four US states begin with the word New. Can you name them?

ANSWERS Donald Trump has unveiled plans for a new ballroom in the White House, 2—A bone, 3—Slavery, 4—A flush, 5— Adelphi Ballroom, 6—David, 7—High Fidelity, 8—Amphibian, 9—Renault, 10—Light. Stinker: New York, New Mexico, New Hampshire and New Jersey.

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Stephanie Malone’s Ladies Captain Day at Greenore Golf Club

Ladies captain Stephanie Malone (yellow top) hosted Ladies Captain Day in Greenore Golf Club last weekend.

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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‘We brought people from both sides together—that was our legacy’

MIAMI Showband member Stephen Travers unveils plaque to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Miami Showband massacre A large crowd turned up at the Longwalk on Thursday afternoon for a special unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the horrific Miami Showband massacre which saw singer Fran O’Toole, guitarist Tony Geraghty and trumpeter Brian McCoy shot dead at Buskhill near Newry on 31 July 1975 after they were pulled over at a bogus security forces checkpoint by members of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) when returning south from a gig at the Castle Ballroom in Banbridge.

The initial plan by the UVF was to send the band on their way with a bomb timed to explode ten minutes later, killing all of them and making it look as if it was they who were transporting bombs across the border.

However, the bomb exploded prematurely and amid the chaos the UVF members opened fire killing three of the band members.

Stephen Travers, Brian Maguire, Fr Brian D’Arcy and Patsy Rogers at the plaque unveiling last Thursday.

Patsy Rogers and Eddie Marmion organised the plaque unveilingat the Longwalk.

Des Lee and Stephen Travers miraculously survived that night and on Thursday, exactly fifty years on from the horrific tragedy, Stephen Travers was in Dundalk to unveil a plaque at what would have been the entrance to the old Adelphi Ballroom on the Longwalk. Des lee was due to come also but having attended he earlier event in Buskhill he fell ill so missed the Dundalk leg.

The event was organised by Patsy Rogers, Eddie Marmion and Mary Keenan. Patsy and Eddie are two well-known locals who were a big part

myself that I have far more brilliant memories of my time in the Miami showband than bad ones. The first time I ever played with the Miami showband was in the Pavilion Ballroom in Blackrock. I also played the Adelphi which was always very special. For us there were two venues in particular we always wanted to do well in. The Arcadia in Cork and the Adelphi in Dundalk. We knew if you did well in those two spots you were on to a winner,” recalled Stephen.

“If you were to wonder what we are commemo-

of the local showband scene in the 60’s and 70’s. Both men knew and played on the same bill as the Miami Showband and were keen to acknowledge their impact on Dundalk as well as remembering the three members of the band who were murdered on that fateful evening.

Keeping the large crowd entertained ahead of the plaque unveiling was Lurgan man Kevin Kearney who belted out some showband era classics much to the delight of the watching crowds, some of whom had danced and sang along

to those very same songs half a century earlier just yards from where this commemoration was taking place.

Also in attendance was Fr Brian D’Arcy who was a friend and confidante of some of the biggest names during the thriving showband era of the 1960’s and 70’s and Brian Maguire who was the band’s manager.

Speaking to the large assembled crowd, Stephen Travers spoke of his pride of being in the Miami Showband.

“I was 24 years of age when I joined the Miami showband and I had no

sense whatsoever. I was a young man without a care in the world loving life until this tragedy happened fifty years ago.

It made no sense whatsoever what happened in the early hours of that morning and the horror that unfolded. It has stayed with me and even today when I turn on the TV and see the genocide hat is unfolding in Gaza, it triggers me. On my knees I beg for the killing in Gaza to stop. Life is precious. Today for me has mixed emotions. 50 years on the tears have dried up to some extent and I have to remind

rating today and ask why should we remember the Miami showband I would say this. For me the greatest legacy of the Miami Showband is the fact that we brought people together. We played in rooms where Catholics and Protestant sang and danced together and for here hours or whatever they left sectarianism at the door.

“Whenever we played north of the border it was simply about the music and giving people of all persuasions a great night out. To me, every man and woman who played up north during

the Troubles was a hero.

That for me is a source of enormous pride and it was the making of me.

To be able to socialise and play on stage with Fran, Tony, Brian, Des and Ray was an absolute pleasure and it was the making of me. Thank you everybody for turning up here today and God bless,” concluded Stephen.

Patsy Rogers, one of the event organisers thanked Eddie Marmion, Malachy O’Neill, Terry Kelly, Brendan Marmion paints, Antoin Wattersand Kevin Kearney for all their help putting on the commemoration before Stephen Travers officially unveiled the plaque which features a picture of the group in their pomp. Fr Brian D’Arcy concluded the commemoration by speaking about the fantastic energy and leadership the Miami showband gave through not only their music but through living positively and embracing people of all religions at their shows. The plaque can be found on the wall beside McCabe’s pharmacy at the Longwalk.

Fr Brian D’Arcy speaks to the large crowd at the plaque unveil- Stephen Travers, Miami Showband member and survivor of Stephen Travers (right) with his former Miami Showband tour manager Brian Maguire. ing in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Miami the massacre, officially unveils the plaque.

Showband Massacre.

Kevin Kearney kept the crowds enter- Patsy Rogers, Eddie Marmion and Mary Keenan organised the The crowds were transported back to the 1960’s as showband era songs were belted out at the Longwalk by Kevin Kearney during the commemoration. tained with some classic showband event to commemorate the Miami Showband. tunes.

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM

DEVANEY Vera 2nd ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Vera Devaney, late of Lis na Dara, Carrick Road, Dundalk, whose second anniversary occurs on 6th August.

There is not a morning or night, I don’t think of you Mam, Deep in my heart you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day.

—From your loving daughter Veronica, grand-daughter Lauren and family.

Anniversary Mass 9th August, at St. Joseph’s Church, Castletown, Fatima, at 6pm.

SKELLY Phyllis 1st ANNIVERSARY The 1st anniversary occurs of Phyllis Skelly on 10th August, late of Aisling Park, Dundalk.

You gave us years of happiness Then sorrow came with tears You left us lovely memories We will treasure through the years.

—Sadly missed by your loving husband Jim.

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). D.W. 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). R.G. 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.C.

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). J. & A.F. PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE Saint Jude, glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor has caused thee to be forgotten by many, But the Church honours and invokes thee universally as the patron of hopeless cases – of matters despaired off. Pray for me who am so miserable, make use, I implore thee, of that particular privilege accorded to thee, to bring visible and speedy Help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly (here make your request) and that I may bless God with thee and all the elect throughout eternity. I promise thee O blessed Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favour, and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen. St Jude pray for us. And for all who invoke thy aid St Jude, help of the hopeless, aid me in my distress. Pray for us that we may be admitted into the Company of the blessed, to rejoice in the presence of God forever. D.W.

LEGAL NOTICES AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT District Court Area of Dundalk District No. 6 Public Dance Halls Act 1935, Section 2 Notice of Application for a Public Dancing Licence Seamus Lambe, Chairman, Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited (Applicant) TAKE NOTICE that I, Seamus Lambe of Newtownbalreagan, Kilkerley, Dundalk, County Louth, Chairman of the above mentioned Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited intends to apply to the District Court sitting at the Courthouse, Dundalk, County Louth on the 25th September 2025, at 10.30am for the grant of a Licence to use a particular place to with Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited premises situate at Plaster, Kilkerley, Dundalk in the County of Louth in Court Area and District aforesaid for Public Dancing.

Dated this 6th day of August 2025.

Signed: Hamill Wallace & Hardy (Solicitors for the Applicant) 2 Demesne, Dundalk, County Louth.

To: The District Court Clerk, The Courthouse, Dundalk, County Louth.

And To: The Superintendent of the Garda Siochana, Dundalk Garda Station, The Crescent, Dundalk, County Louth.

And To: The Secretary, Louth County Council, Millennium Buildings, St. Alphonsus Road, Dundalk, County Louth, Being the Fire Authority for the purpose of the Fire Services Act, 1981, and being the Local Authority for the purposes of The Public Dance Halls Act 1935.

SPECIAL SERVICES

SPECIAL SERVICES

PLANNING NOTICES

PLANNING NOTICES

CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—10kg bags of Beech and Olive (hardwood) for sale. Tel Paul McArdle 087 6660094 / 042 9332491 Email:tribalky@yahoo.com.

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799.

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact—Ben 085-840-7707.

FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.

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 8184827.

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.

TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden.

I do it all. Grass cutting, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Strimming, Power washing, Gutter Cleaning, Fence Painting, General DIY, Flat Pack Assembly, Removals. Contact Catriona 087 3172109.

ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.

FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728.

Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps.

Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 0894016728.

PLUMBER AVAILABLE—Bathroom renovations, Oil Boiler fitting and servicing, Attic Tanks and cylinder replacements. Can also install inside and outside taps etc etc. No Job too small. Contact Paul on 086 8897989.

PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—Interior and exterior plus Wallpapering, also sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men. Tel Brian 087 7558506.

DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES—Hedge, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower strimming weeding beds, weedkilling, moss removal, control demolition, removal of old sheds fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. Free quote 0877019178.

TREE SERVICES—Tree surgery, stump grinding, wood chipping & pruning. Conifer hedge reduction and ash die back removal.

Fully Insured & Certified. Contact Chambers on 087 2750825 Email rchambers2008@ yahoo.ie.

PAINTING AND DECORATING—No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

GOT AN ONLINE BUSINESS? Want to scale it? Spending too much on Google Ads? Imagine your business on Page 1 of Google!

Let me help with a free, no-obligation audit. Just text (085) 812 46 42 and I’ll call you back.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-762-3758 for quotation.

SEEKING OLD FURNITURE—New York company looking for old country furniture, Old Kitchen dressers, Old presses, Old chest of drawers, Old kitchen tables, Old Enamel signs, Old Creamery cans, Old Shop counters. Contents of houses. Must be old. No Time Wasters. Contact Roger 085 1481222.

SIMON’S GARDENS—Grass cutting & general gardening services contact Simon 086 3004930.

ALL IN ONE property maintenance, painting & decorating, general building maintenance carried out, domestic or commercial, gutter cleaning, dust free sanding, no job too big or too small, quality but affordable, contact Ian 0874158238.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Declan Flood, intend to apply to Louth County Council for Planning Retention & Full Planning Retention permission for demolition of part of eastern boundary wall; and 2.

Permission to add a second floor to the two storey office building previously approved under Appeal Ref. No. ABP-310087-21 and modified under P.A. 23/472 in lieu of the basement previously approved under P.A. Ref. No. 22/965, minor elevational changes to approved office structure and associated site development works at Defenders Row, Dundalk, Co. Louth. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, John O’Connor, intend to apply for Retention Permission and Permission for development at Bogtown, Dromiskin, Co. Louth. A91 V4K0.

The development will consist of—Retention for 1. part of an existing unauthorised wall and piers within the curtilage of the site to include the reduction in height to 1.2m, 2. a 2.0m high timber vertical slatted fence along the eastern boundary 3. relocation of waste water treatment system percolation area 4.and associated site development works. Permission for 1. removal of remainder of unauthorised wall/fence 2.a domestic garage and 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 Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €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—P. Herr & Associates, Block 4, Third Floor, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 KA9R. Tel. 042-9330019. E-mail info@pherr.ie.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Christopher Murphy, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at Newline Road, Faughart Lower, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 Y209. The development will consist of— Retention of a single storey rear extension to an existing dwelling house and 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 Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €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—AMC Loss Assessors & Surveyors, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. 0879529699. E-mail aidan@amcla.ie.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Kieran & Emmanuelle Arthurs, intend to apply for Permission for development at 26 Meadow Grove, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 F5N4. The development will consist of—Permission for alterations to the internal layout and external facades of an existing dwelling house and 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 Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €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: AMC Loss Assessors & Surveyors, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. 0879529699. E-mail aidan@amcla.ie.

PLANNING NOTICES LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Alan McArdle, intend to apply for Full planning permission for Demolition of an existing commercial building and boundary walls and construction of a multi-storey apartment complex containing 20 dwelling units in a mix of 1no. three bedroom, 13no. two bedroom and 6no. one bedroom units at John Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Full permission includes for waste storage rooms, bicycle storage room and bulky store area, external landscaping, communal garden area, new boundary treatments, connection to public services and 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 Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Moate Medical Investments Ltd, intend to apply for Permission for development at Lands of Liberties on the R173, Old Dundalk Road, Carlingford. Co. Louth. The development will consist of—Replacement of—9 No. single storey 1-bed studio units. A 2-storey community and administration building.

And a utility building all previously granted planning permission under planning reference number 16852, and extended duration under planning reference number 21728.

With, 8 No. residential units comprising of the following—4 No. single storey blocks comprising of 1 no. 1 bed dwelling and 1 no. 2 bed dwelling per block. And 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 Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €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—P. Herr & Associates, Block 4, Third Floor, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 KA9R. Tel. 042-9330019. E-mail info@pherr.ie.

ARTICLES FOR SALE SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

LADIES EBIKE FOR SALE—Like new.

Only 6 months old. €700.00. Dundalk area.

Please call 083 1161297.

PROPERTY/RENTALS ATTENTION LANDLORDS—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

HOUSE FOR SALE—4 Bedroomed House for sale close to Ballymac Roundabout. 2 Storey house with 2 reception rooms. Has front and rear garden. Please phone 089 2430287 for any queries or to view.

CLASSES & COURSES GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

SEWING CLASSES for Adults. September 6th until October 25th at Muirhevnamor Community Centre. For more details call Blathnaid on 086 0312003.

PERSONAL EASY-GOING country lad, mid 50s with GSOH seeks light-hearted female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/ talks and to share the simple things in life.

Tel 0868220403.

SELL IT THROUGH A

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Wheelie Bins

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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‘Forgotten farmers’ in Blackrock Dynamites Basketball Club Louth to benefit from Abbey host successful table new scheme—Butterly quiz for SOSAD

DYNAMITES Basketball Club Dromiskin Dundalk are preparing for the new North Eastern Basketball League 25/26 season.

After a very successful season last year with our junior teams winning titles.

Dynamites are preparing for a new year of basketball development which the club is renowned for.

This season starts with our very successful summer camp from the 18th – 20th August in the Joes Hall Dromiskin A91WY99. Hall of fame coach Lenny Mc Millan along with Irish Academy Coaches will be present.

With our very successful summer development sessions coming to an end, team preparation begins for the upcoming season with our Strength and Conditioning sessions ever Monday night.

To registration for any of our teams from u12 to u18 boys to our u20 men, senior women and over 40s masters teams Please follow us on Facebook or email dynamitesbasketballreg@gmail.com In preparation for the season ahead, several of our u16 boys will head to Valencia in Spain for a weeks pre season training and development.

New players are always welcome to our club at all age levels and our u10 Academy will start very soon. If you would like to register for any of these teams please visit our Facebook page Dynamites Basketball Club Dundalk.

THE scheme to support Long Established Young Farmers has opened for submission of online applications, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Butterly said this scheme will recognise the hard work of farmers in Louth that missed out on payments previously.

“The Long Established Young Farmers, often called the Forgotten Farmers, is a group who were under the age of 40 in 2015, had commenced in agriculture prior to 2008, but did not receive young farmer Installation Aid and were not eligible for young farmer supports under the CAP from 2015.

“It’s great to see this anomaly being addressed with the opening of application for this scheme. So many

farmers across the country have waited for this issue to be addressed. “€5m was allocated for this scheme in the Budget to ensure that these farmers get access to this vital scheme.

The government also committed to deliver a scheme that recognises the Forgotten Farmers in the Programme for Government.

“Online applications can be submitted until 5.30pm on 13 August 2025 and I encourage all those eligible in Louth to apply. Applications can be made at Agfood.ie.

“Farmers can be reassured that Fine Gael and Minister Martin Heydon are doing everything we can to support the agricultural sector”, con- xxxxxx cluded Butterly

Stephanie Malone’s Ladies Captain Day

LAST Monday evening, Blackrock Abbey hosted a very successful table quiz in aid of SOSAD. There was a tremendous attendance made up of the residents, their families, friends and staff. A varied range of questions provided much discussion between team members and an unlimited amount of fun and laughs. Refreshments before and after were very much appreciated by everyone who attended with lovely tea and buns enjoyed by all.

In total a sum of €1,060 was raised through a combination of donations from attendees which was then matched by the Management of Blackrock Abbey. We would like to thank all residents, families, friends and staff members who made it an extremely enjoyable evening in aid of a very worthy cause.

WAR: THE PRESIDENT; THE CITIZEN; THE SOLDIER AND THE CHILD The President: The President sits pensively with his military advisers Clustered around his desk, Cowing them once more into submissive acquiescence As he bends them to the task Of preparing more new recruits for yet another full Frontal assault Knowing that such may still prove fruitless but still Refusing to countenance any fault; For he knows that his war has been dragging on now For far too long in length, But won’t contemplate any negotiations until he can do so from a position of strength.

The citizen: Deeply disturbed by rumors from the front of further Colossal loss of life Something which he dare not confide to his sick and ailing wife; While silently praying that their only son is not coming under fire The good citizen is afraid to publicly vent his ire For though he disbelieves the lies, he is terrified of the liar.

Stephanie Malone’s Ladies Captain Day at Greenore Golf Club.

The soldier: As guided missiles fly across the starry sky at night, Turning the enemy city into a vortex of orange light The young soldier stealthily marches on – an untested new recruit, Advancing into the darkness, his AK47 primed to shoot - pushing aside any sentimental thoughts of his family And his young wife entering the hell-hole where he is shortly to lose his life.

The child: Last night the city suffered yet another missile assault Flames lighting up the dark, The drones and rocket-launchers unerringly striking Their targeted mark His scrawny limbs cut and bleeding; his hands both Badly torn His little face lined and strained with tears, his heart Shaken and forlorn, The child agonizingly crawls out from underneath the Rubble in the light of dawn Wondering where his parents and his brothers and sisters have all gone.

—NOEL SHARKEY.

Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025

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Louth County Council welcomes Gum Litter Taskforce to Dundalk LOUTH County Council was delighted to welcome the Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT) to Market Square, Dundalk, last week as part of its nationwide awareness campaign.

The GLT campaign, which has been running successfully across Ireland, aims to educate the public on the environmental impact of gum litter and promote positive behaviour change through interactive events and community engagement.

On Tuesday last, the Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT) joined with staff members from the Louth County Council community support team, members of Dundalk Tidy Towns and service users from the Irish Wheelchair Association to deliver a fun, educational, interactive event at The Square to highlight the environmental impact of gum litter and raise awareness of the €150 fine for improper disposal.

Welcoming the

1- Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, with members of Dundalk Tidy Towns and Louth County Council staff from the community support team . campaign back to Louth, Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Hosting the Gum Litter Taskforce in Dundalk’s Market Square is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the importance of responsible litter disposal. This is a fantastic initiative that raises awareness about the negative impacts of gum litter in a fun and engaging way. Louth County Council is proud to support campaigns like GLT that

Witness appeal following serious assault in Dundalk GARDAÍ are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault on a woman in her 40s that occurred in Muirhevnamore Park, Dundalk, at approximately 6pm on Friday, 1st August 2025.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

Any persons, including road users and pedestrians, who were in Muirhevnamore Park, Dundalk at approximately 6pm on Friday evening 1st August, 2025 and who may have footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dundalk Garda Station 042 938 8400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

As part of our investigation a man, aged in his 40s, was arrested and has since been charged in connection with the investigation.

He appeared before a special sitting of Dundalk District Court on Monday 4th August, 2025.

Investigations ongoing.

encourage responsible litter disposal and help create cleaner, more welcoming communities.”

Louth County Council remains committed to supporting initiatives that foster environmental responsibility and enhance the quality of life in our towns and villages.

Launching its sixth cycle, the Gum Litter Taskforce reports that: 92% of people now report properly disposing of their chewing

gum, a record high; 85% of 16–34-year-olds now view littering as socially unacceptable, and men remain more likely than women to improperly dispose of chewed gum.

A collaboration between industry, government and local authorities, and funded

by Mars Wrigley, this year marks the launch of the campaign’s sixth cycle.

GLT has seen gum litter reduce by almost 70% since 2007,

Dundalk Sub Aqua member qualifies as Moniteur 2 Diver DUNDALK Sub Aqua Search And Rescue Unit would like to congratulate one of our own Damien Welby on achieving his moniteur 2 divers status.

Damien is a member of An Garda Síochána, originally from Co. Donegal, now based in Co. Louth, where he resides with his wife & children.

He reached his diver 3star divers certificate during the covid pandemic, which was no easy task, with his duties at home & as a front line worker.

In the context of C.F.T. (Irish Underwater Council).

Moniteur 2, a diver has achieved the highest level of recreational diving, this is after a rigorous intense assessment process.

Damien has also been involved in a number searches with Dundalk Sub Aqua Search And Rescue Unit.

Dundalk Sub Aqua Search And Rescue Unit are always on call should our services be required.

We work with all the emergency agencies throughout the Damien Welby. island of Ireland.

via a sustained public engagement and education campaign. According to the latest National Litter Pollution Monitoring System data, gum now accounts for just 8.6% of all litter, continuing a downward trend in gum as a component of litter from 26.4% in 2006, and 9.1% in 2021, the end of the previous three-year cycle.

However, according to the latest research,

one in 12 admits that they still drop their gum on the ground, with men more than twice as likely to do so as women. This highlights the continued importance of the campaign.

Launching the campaign in Mayo last month, Minister of State with responsibility for Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, praised the continued success of the initiative:

HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.

042 9331515/086 2559201

“I’m delighted to kick off another year of the Gum Litter Taskforce’s Summer Roadshow.

Since 2007, we have seen clear, measurable change on our streets thanks to the work of the Gum Litter Taskforce. The consistent fall in gum litter shows that education and collaboration are driving real results. This is exactly the kind of behavioural change we need to build a cleaner, greener Ireland.”

Avril Donlon, Gum Litter Campaign Manager at Food Drink Ireland, added: “We are delighted to be kicking off another summer of interactive roadshows.

Each year, we continue to see the positive impact this campaign is having on communities across the country. It’s encouraging to know that our efforts are helping more people make the right choice when it comes to gum disposal.”

Anne Sheeran, Corporate Affairs Man-

ager at Mars Wrigley, said: “The Gum Litter Taskforce continues to prove what’s possible through strong partnerships and community-focused messaging. By connecting with younger audiences and reinforcing positive behaviour, we’re not just cleaning up streets – we’re helping to create a culture of personal responsibility.

Mars Wrigley is proud to sponsor a campaign that plays such an important role in educating people about proper gum and litter disposal.”

This year’s Summer Roadshow will make 20 stops across 17 counties this Summer. The GLT campaign also includes a school roadshow (‘Bin It!’) which will travel to primary and secondary schools across the country from October, and run an advertising campaign and website, where educational material at www.gumlittertaskforce.ie.

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Dundalk Leader 6th August 2025