DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Caroline calls on public’s support for ICS Pink Campaign
Plenty of local interest in Mná na hÉireann production
Local teachers set to go on strike next Wednesday
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Wednesday, 7th October, 2026. Vol. 19, Issue 40 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888 | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com
‘Let our children play’
Halliday Mills resident upset over removal of children’s toys from communal courtyard
also be a reasonable balance between maintaining a that prompted this decision. The toys had been in the safe communal space and allowing children to use that courtyard for some time, which is why the sudden reA RESIDENT from Halliday Mills apartment complex space appropriately. moval has been difficult for some families to underon Quay Street says that sweeping new changes from “From my own experience as a resident, I am not stand. the management company which saw them remove all aware of any accidents involving the children’s toys Continued on Page 2 outdoor toys from the communal courtyard will have a detrimental effect on children who live there. Veronica Maughan told the Dundalk Leader that the courtyard on the top floor of Halliday Mills Apartments had been used by children living in the complex as a place to play, socialise and enjoy some outdoor time in a safe environment. However, an abrupt message from the Halliday Mill’s management company, Co-Operative Housing recently told tenants that all items in communal areas would be removed and destroyed if not moved. According to Veronica she is at a loss to understand why this decision was made and while she understands that safety is paramount she has yet to be told what safety issues prompted this decision from the management company. “For families living in apartments, communal outdoor space can be extremely important, particularly for young children who may not have access to their own garden. “I understand that safety has been raised as a reason for removing items from communal areas, and I fully appreciate that the safety and accessibility of residents A jubilant St Patrick’s team celebrate after beating St Mochtas 4-11 to 2-8 to reclaim the Senior must be considered. However, I believe there should Ladies Championship in Drogheda. This was the third title in four years for the Lordship side.
By Paul Byrne
CHAMPIONS OF LOUTH!
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Halliday Mills resident upset over removal of children’s toys from courtyard
From Page 1 “There are also other permanent items within the courtyard, such as benches and bins, which could equally
require consideration when discussing safety. “My concern is not about ignoring safety rules. It is about whether a reasonable compro-
says that tenants are welcome to bring items into the shared area but must remove them afterwards. This appears to acknowledge that the courtyard can be used for children’s play, but they have not explained why the toys cannot remain in a designated area when they are not obstructing access. “I would also like clarification on the consultation process. They say they are “actively engaging with those in the community”, but the statement doesn’t explain how tenants were consulted before this decision was made, how many tenants were consulted, or whether tenants were given an opportunity to express their views before the toys were removed. “There is also the question of why a residents’ committee appears to have a role in deciding what can remain in the courtyard when the courtyard is a communal facility used by all tenants. I would like to know whether the wider membership of tenants was consulted or given an opportunity to vote on this change. “Finally, if the concern genuinely is fire safety, I would like them to explain why a compromise wasn’t considered — for example, a clearly designated area for children’s toys which is kept completely clear of entrances, exits and escape routes. “I don’t dispute that fire safety and access routes need to be kept clear. My concern is that the statement seems to rely on the phrase “health and safety concerns” without actually providing the evidence or assessment showing that the children’s toys were creating a specific risk. Also they are saying tenants can bring items into the shared area, but doesn’t that mean the toys aren’t safety concerns then? “During the summer, the courtyard was being used by lots of children. They were playing together, socialising and sharing the toys that were there. Children didn’t necessarily need to own a scooter, slide, rocking horse etc. themselves because they could all play with what was available. Halliday Mills residents were told recently by the management com“For families who pany to remove all toys from the courtyard area due to health and may not be in a position safety concerns. to spend money on outmise could have been found instead — for example, designated areas for toys, agreed storage arrangements, or clear rules about what can and cannot be left in the courtyard. “I also believe residents should have a meaningful opportunity to have their say. Halliday Mills is home to many tenants, and decisions affecting the communal spaces used by everyone should, in my view, involve consultation with the wider community rather than relying solely on the views of a residents’ committee. “For young children, these toys may seem like something small, but they provide an opportunity to play, make friends and enjoy being outdoors within their own community. As a parent, it is upsetting to see a space that children have enjoyed become more restricted without residents having a clear opportunity to discuss possible alternatives. “I am not asking for safety to be ignored. I am asking for residents and management to work together to find a solution that protects safety while still allowing children to enjoy their communal courtyard. “Our children deserve a safe place to play — and residents deserve to have a voice in
decisions affecting their community. When contacted by the Dundalk Leader a spokesperson for CoOperative Housing (Halliday Mils Management Company) stated that the items had to be removed from the shared area due to health and safety concerns. “Co-operative Housing Ireland is dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of its Member Tenants. In this matter, items had to be removed from the shared area due to health and safety concerns. Member Tenants are welcome to bring items into the shared area, but they must take them away again after they are finished. After the removal of the objects from the space, our Neighbourhood Specialist team reached out to all Member Tenants to let them know that they are able to retrieve their items, but that they must be stored in their homes. This decision had to be made, as due to the proximity to fire exits, we cannot allow any storage of play items in the shared area. “Co-operative Housing Ireland pride ourselves in our open and transparent ongoing communication directly with our Member Tenants and are actively engaging with those in the
community on this matter,” read the statement. Responding to that statement from CoOperative Housing, Veronica stated that she was still none the wiser as to the specific health and safety concerns in question. “Firstly, they state that the items “had to be removed” because of health and safety concerns, but they haven’t identified what specific health and safety risk the children’s toys presented. “They refer specifically to the proximity of fire exits. I would like them to clarify which fire exits they are referring to and whether the toys were actually obstructing or restricting access to any fire exit or escape route. My understanding is that the toys were situated in the courtyard and were not blocking entrances or exits. Toys have been in the courtyard since the beginning and it’s only now they see an issue. If it is safety concerns why weren’t they removed back then?,” asked Veronica. “I would also ask whether a formal health and safety/fire safety assessment was carried out before the decision was made, and whether the decision applies to all items in the courtyard or specifically children’s play equipment. “Their statement
door toys, this was particularly valuable. The communal toys meant that children could still enjoy outdoor play without their parents having to buy expensive equipment themselves. “Since the toys have been removed, that opportunity has effectively been taken away from
the children as well. It is difficult to understand how removing one of the few things that encouraged children to play together and socialise in the communal courtyard fits with Halliday Mills being described as a familyfriendly community,” concluded Veronica.
SOCIAL DANCING Every Thursday Night
UPSTAIRS IN THE LISDOO CONFERENCE CENTRE, DUNDALK Dancing from 8.30pm to Live Music, Supper & Raffle Adm €10
Tomorrow, Thursday 3rd September – Ray Murtagh Thursday 10th September – Liam McLaughlin Thursday 17th September – White Lightening Thursday 24th September – Michael Collins NEW MEMBERS WELCOME All proceeds raised go to our school in Cameroon
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
A Memorable Day at Áras an Uachtaráin for De La Salle students
A very special day for our school as Ms Delaney, Mr McGrath, Mr Halpin, Ms Kerr and Ms Bailey, ( included in the photo ) along with 21 5th Year students, were invited to Áras an Uachtaráin to attend the Presentation of Credentials and witness the formal accreditation of new Ambassadors to Ireland. We were honoured to be selected as the school to attend this prestigious occasion and incredibly fortunate to witness such an important part of Ireland’s diplomatic tradition. A fantastic experience for our students and a wonderful privilege for our school!
HSE must honour commitment to hire nursing graduates
LOUTH Labour TD, Ged Nash says a group of nursing graduates from DkIT have been left “high and dry” by the HSE after it reneged on a promise to offer them permanent contracts, after their graduation. Deputy Nash explained: “Earlier this month, a student nurse, representing the graduating class of 2026 in Dundalk wrote to me and explained their concerns. “The class consists of students who have trained across
hospitals throughout the North East, including Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda, Louth County Hospital, Cavan General Hospital, Monaghan Hospital and Navan. “Many of them were expected to take up posts in Our Lady of Lourdes in Hospital and their loss to that hospital will be devastating at a time when the hospital is already understaffed and under-resourced. “I understand from the
INMO that this is a situation that is being repeated all over the country and I back that organisation’s call today for an immediate commitment from the HSE to hire all 2026 graduates, in line with the commitment they have previously made, and in line with their own stated policies.” Deputy Nash said: “These graduates have spent the last four years working towards becoming registered nurses and have completed our internships.
“All of them expected to be offered employment in the HSE and to start their working lives but September came and went without any word from the HSE, despite previous assurances that 2026 nursing graduated would be offered permanent HSE contracts.” The Louth Labour TD said: “The Dundalk class previously received correspondence stating that the 2026 class would be offered permanent HSE contracts and that additional nursing workforce growth
through the National Service Plan 2026 would bring new wards online. “Despite this, they are now being told that only some graduates may commence employment before December, with others potentially being phased into employment next year but there is considerable uncertainty around even that loose commitment. “I raised this concerning issue through a Parliamentary Question to the Minister for Health and the question was passed on to the HSE for answer. “I received that answer, this week and am staggered by the response.” Deputy Nash explained: “While the HSE says that the retention of all 2026 Nursing and Midwifery graduates is a “key priority”, it says that has to be managed within th e2026 Pay and Numbers WTE allocation and the “available funding envelope”. “We have seen before in this county, the trouble the so called ‘Pay and Numbers’ policy in the HSE has caused in our hospitals, leaving them understaffed and under-resourced and this latest calamity for these abandoned nursing graduates is the latest evidence that this policy is not fit for purpose.” The Louth Labour TD added: “The HSE goes on to explain in its response to my Parliamentary Question that the allocation of graduates for 2026 has been filled but they can continue to recruit through “agency conversion”. “This leaves dozens of fully qualified nurses who have spent four years studying in Dundalk and working in hospitals in our region, feeling they are without a future in our own health service. If you have ever wondered why so many of our nursing graduates take the decision to move
Ged Nash, TD. to the other side of the world, then here is your answer.” He said: “There is plenty of blame to go around here. This is the result of a staffing policy that is beyond just not fit for purpose, it is actively working against the creation of an efficient health service and against the employment of the very graduates that this State has invested heavily in, as they progress through their education and training.” Deputy Nash concluded: “This cannot be allowed to stand. The HSE made a commitment to these nurses and it must honour that commitment and secure them the posts in our health service, they were promised. “The government and Minister for Health for their part, need to look at this problem and remove any recruitment barriers that mean we cannot hire our own highly-trained nurses and give them the secure futures they deserve.”
Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Dundalk breast cancer survivor calls on the public to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Pink Campaign
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BREAST cancer survivor Caroline O’Donnell, 50, from Dundalk, Co Louth is supporting the Irish Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and encouraging the public to host a Pink event to help fund vital breast cancer support services and life-changing breast cancer research projects. Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland. Caroline noticed a lump in her left breast in November 2021. It was during the height of the Covid pandemic and Caroline was extremely busy as she was working as an ICU nurse, so she initially
put off getting the lump checked. In early 2022, she got it checked and received her diagnosis. Speaking about her diagnosis, mother-ofthree Caroline O’Donnell said: “My children were aged 10, 7 and 6 when I was diagnosed. I felt that I had to be strong and show no emotion in front of my husband and kids. “I was actually talking to one of the nurses in Beaumont Hospital, and she said don’t keep it from the kids, tell them, and she gave me a booklet. So I told them what I’d be going through but to try not to worry.” Caroline’s treatment consisted of a left-side mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She finished active treatment in November 2022. Her treatment was successful and she’s now doing well. Talking about what life is like for her now, Caroline said: “I’m delighted that there are no issues now.
Caroline O’Donnell. “I felt relief when my doctor told me she was happy with how everything went, but I always have that worry about reoccurrence in the back of my head. But the team in Beaumont are very good at reassuring me.” Caroline is sharing her story to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage people to support the Pink campaign to help people who, like her, who have been affected by breast cancer. Caroline said: “I would encourage everyone to please get behind the Pink campaign. A huge amount
of the funding for the Irish Cancer Society’s breast cancer support services and breast cancer research projects comes from donations made by the public. “If you are at all able, please support this important cause. You can donate or register your fundraising event at cancer.ie/pink” Mary O’Kelly, Cancer Nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, said: “Self-examination is so important for women of all ages, even those who are eligible for screening, as this only takes place every two years. Pick a date and try to do it as consistently as you can on a monthly basis. “It’s really important that we are breast aware and know what is normal for us. If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of breast cancer and the change persists, please go to see your GP as soon as possible. “Women can sometimes feel embarrassed
or uncomfortable attending their GP with breast issues, but this examination could save your life. Your GP will perform a routine examination of your breast and if appropriate, refer you for further assessment. “If you are concerned about breast cancer, call the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700. You can also find out more at www.cancer.ie” This October, the Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to host Pink events in their homes, workplaces, communities and colleges to raise funds to support breast cancer support services such as free counselling, transport to treatment, Night Nursing and much more. Funds raised will also be used to fund ground-breaking breast cancer research projects. To learn more or get involved, please visit: cancer.ie/pink
cle to Dublin years ago to raise money for his charity and I wanted to help him out again this year so recently I decided to set myself a challenge of making 20 oil paintings of various animals and try and sell them to make money for Crosscause. I will open up my house at McCormick’s Terrace, 2A St. Alphonsus Road in
Dundalk between 10am and 7pm and I will try and sell all twenty paintings on the day for €25 each. All money raised on the day will go to Crosscause. Brendan will open his house at 2A St Alphonsus Road, Dundalk to sell his paintings on December 6th between 10am and 7pm. All are welcome to help support a great cause.
Brendan to sell twenty wildlife oil paintings for Crosscause Charity
DUNDALK wildlife enthusiast and painter Brendan Connolly will hold an exhibition of twenty wildlife paintings which he hopes to sell to raise money for the Crosscause Charity. Crosscause began in 1998 when a group of volunteers led by Blackrock man Conor Hughes started working with special needs orphans in Romania. With the gained experience, they later expanded further into Eastern Europe and West Africa. Brendan has painted twenty wildlife oil paintings and he hopes to sell each one for €25 to enable him to hand over €500 to Crosscause. According to Brendan he credits an old teacher in the CBS Primary for getting him into art. “I love wildlife and I love painting. One of my old teachers in the CBS
Brendan Connolly. Primary School got me into drawing when I was about 9 or 10. I can remember him asking me to draw a spaceship and from then on I really got into art as a subject. I have been friends with Conor Hughes for many years and I see the great work he is doing with his Crosscause charity. “I did a sponsored cy-
Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Plenty of local interest in new Mná na hÉireann production
A POWERFUL new Irish dance theatre production celebrating the extraordinary women who helped shape modern Ireland will take to the stage at Dublin’s Ambassador Theatre this October. Mná na hÉireann will run at the historic O’Connell Street venue from 14th to 16th October 2026, bringing together traditional Irish dance, original music, song, poetry, narration and striking visual design to tell the stories of women whose courage, sacrifice and contribution to Ireland’s revolutionary period were, for generations, too often left in the shadows. Created and produced by former Riverdance Irish Dance Director and three-time World Irish Dancing Champion Carol Leavy Joyce, Mná na hÉireann traces a defining period between 1912 and 1918, when women fought not only for social and political change, but also to preserve and strengthen Ireland’s cultural identity. The production focuses on women from different backgrounds and classes whose lives became intertwined with the cultural and political upheaval of the period, among them Countess Markievicz, Nurse Elizabeth O’Farrell, Julia Grenan, Dr
Carole Leavy Joyce.
Daragh Roddy.
Áine McGeeney.
Kathleen Lynn, Winifred Carney and Grace Gifford. Carol Leavy Joyce, originally from Ardee but now living in Blackrock is the creator, producer and co-choreographer of Mná na hÉireann, said: “Mná na hÉireann has lived with me for almost a decade. It began with a very simple question: where were the women? The more I researched, the more extraordinary their stories became. These were women of immense courage and conviction who were working, organising, nursing, campaigning, fighting, protecting our language and culture and supporting
one another through an incredibly turbulent period in Irish history. “There have been many moments over the years when I wondered whether we would ever reach this stage, but I could never quite let the story go. I kept coming back to these women and to the feeling that they deserved to be seen, heard and remembered. “To now bring Mná na hÉireann to The Ambassador Theatre, on O’Connell Street where so much of this history actually unfolded, feels incredibly special. In many ways, the story is coming home. There are mo-
ments of enormous strength and exhilaration, but also great sadness and sacrifice. Above all, I hope audiences leave knowing more about these remarkable women and understanding just how much we owe them.” Dundalk composer and musician, Áine McGeeney. will also perform as fiddle player, whistle player and singer in the production. Áine is an awardwinning traditional fiddle player, singer and composer and a founding member of acclaimed traditional group Goitse. Ravensdale native Daragh Roddy who is an Irish Dancing World
Champion will play Joseph Plunkett in the production and the 21 year old is very much looking forward to next week when the production takes to the stage in the Ambassador. “I’m very excited to get going now. We’ve been busy rehearsing for the last couple of months and I’ve been getting to know who Joseph Plunkett was,” explains Daragh. “ He was an Irish Republican, poet, and journalist. As a leader of the 1916 Easter Rising, he was one of the seven signatories to the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. He married Grace Gifford in 1916, seven hours before his execution. When asked how it came about that he got this role, Daragh explained that it was another local dancer, and show producer Carol Leavy Joyce who asked him to play the role of Joseph. “I suppose in our little dance community here in Ireland everybody knows everybody and it was Carol who reached out to me and told me she had me in mind for the role of Joseph Plunkett. When I heard what the show was about I was excited because I suppose we learned the history of that time told through the eyes of men. They were so many amazing
women in Ireland during the time of the revolution and their stories haven’t really been told. We tell the story through dance and we convey to the audience how the character is feeling through our movement on stage and our facial expressions. There are several emotional scenes and I think the audience will be moved. “Thankfully, I have been lucky enough to perform Irish dancing in front of audiences since I was small and in World Championships and because of that I am not particularly nervous. I am so lucky that the hobby that I love has become a viable way of earning a living. Thanks to the huge success of Riverdance all those years ago a whole new world has been created and is given opportunities like this to the likes of me. I’m excited to play this role and I am working alongside some amazing talent so fingers crossed the audiences will really enjoy it when it opens next week,” added Daragh Mná na hÉireann runs at The Ambassador Theatre, O’Connell Street, Dublin 1, on 14, 15 and 16 October 2026 at 7.30pm.
Ó Murchú commends the people of Garvaghy QUIZ Road for ‘standing up for their rights’
Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú with members of Kneecap and Senator Maria McCormack at the Drumcree Community Centre on the Garvaghy Road, Portadown, on Sunday evening. naiste Simon Harris and said: “I commend the community of Garvaghy Road on their courage and resilience against what we hope is one of the last pangs of
Orange supremacism and triumphalism. “Political unionism really needs to take a look at itself. Is this the road it wants to go down? None
of the rest of us want to see that. I would include in that many within the unionist community and even probably many within the Orange Order. “We think of the realities of this march. We have seen and heard from the families of Michael McGoldrick, Robert Hamill and Rosemary Nelson and that makes it very real. I also think about the likes of Sean Brown, Philip Allen and Damien Trainor at Poyntzpass, and Elizabeth O’Neill. I do not think any of us can forget the Quinn children, and that is what it took to stop the march in 1998. “There are questions for the Parades Commission on its disgraceful action. The PSNI has questions to answer in relation to its security assessment, which was found to be farcical. I ask that the Tánaiste would continue his engagement
with the British Government, but I do not think enough has been done”. In response, the Tánaiste said: “The issue in relation to Garvaghy is receiving, as it rightly should, attention at all levels of government, right up to the most senior levels, and at all levels across officialdom as well, including the engagement of Irish officials on the ground, including engagement with the Deputy’s party and others. I repeat the call for everybody to work towards calm and a resolution. Nobody wants to see the progress that has been hard won go backwards or be lost, and the Deputy has highlighted the very serious trauma and loss of life that has been experienced in the past. The North is at a very different place, a much better place. We never want to go back”.
St Vincent’s Students present cheque to Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust SAINT Vincent’s students were delighted to welcome a representative from the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust to the school following on from a hugely successful fundraiser last year. Grandparents’ Day has become a highlight in the school calendar, and students from three classes, TYA, TYC and TYF organised the event with help from several of their teachers. Edel McNulty explained ‘We
are incredibly proud of the students for their hard work, generosity and commitment to giving back to others. We would to thank everyone who supported last year’s Grandparents’ Day and helped make this donation possible. The students love to invite their grandparents to the school, baking treats, entertaining with musical performances and giving tours of the school.’ Susan Deery from Remembering Oran, in aid of the Kevin
Bell Repatriation Trust, visited the school to collect the generous donation. Susan thanked the girls for their fundraising efforts and spoke to them about the incredible work carried out by the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, helping families who are faced with the devastating loss of a loved one abroad. The KBRT has helped bring home over 2,500 deceased Irish citizens since it was founded in Susan Deery from Remembering Oran, in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, visited the school to collect the generous donation. 2013.
—ANSWERS—
1—Co. Armagh, 2—Fish and chips. Leo Burdock is Dublin’s oldest chipper, 3—A, 4—James Joyce, 5—Navvy Bank on the Point Road, 6—Heart. It is a condition where your resting heart rate goes above 100 beats per minute, 7—Titanic, 8—Selhurst Park (v Crystal Palace), 9 Two (A magnum is 1.5ltrs), 10—Kilkenny (Dublin 1st, Cork 2nd, Limerick 3rd, Galway 4th and Waterford 5th). The Stinker—He was forced to resign last July after being caught on a “Kiss-cam” at a Coldplay concert in Massachusetts.
DUNDALK TD Ruairí Ó Murchú focused European Union and Leinster House attention on the situation at the Garvaghy Road last week during contributions in the Brussels and in the Dáil. The Sinn Féin TD travelled to Brussels for discussions at the EU Parliamentary Democracy Forum and used his speaking time there to commend the people of Garvaghy Road for ‘standing up for their rights’. He said the European Union had played a significant part in the peace process, but highlighted how ‘the efforts to force an Orange Order march down a road where it is not wanted’ was putting peace in jeopardy. He commended the MEPs who had signed a letter sent to British Secretary of State Chris Bryant last week. In Leinster House, Deputy Ó Murchú raised the issue with Tá-
1—In what county is the Garvaghy Road in? 2—What would you associate with the name Leo Burdock? 3—All of the vowels on a computer keyboard are on the first line of letters, Except one. Which one? 4—Which famous Irish novelist, poet and literary critic died in Zurich Switzerland in 1941 at the age of 58? 5—Where in Dundalk would you find a memorial to those who died in the sinking of the S.S. Dundalk during World War I? 6—Tachycardia is a medical condition relating to what part of your body? 7—The character Jack Dawson was a low class artist from Wisconsin in which huge 1997 movie? 8—At which ground did Eric Cantona of Manchester United “Kung-fu” kick a spectator in January 1995? 9—A Magnum of Champagne is the equivalent of how many standard 750ml bottles of champagne? 10—The Republic of Ireland has six official cities. Where is the smallest one? The Stinker: Why did the CEO of US tech company Astronomer make world headlines last year?
Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
EMMA SCOOPS TOP AWARD
Encore Productions tackle ‘The Canterbury Tales’
Mary Frances McAteer in the Canterbury Tales.
DUNDALK’S Emma HuntDuffy – head of marketing UK & Ireland at international banana distributor, Fyffes – was twice on the winners’ podium at the National Parenting Product Awards gala ceremony held in Dublin recently when Bananas topped the list for Irish parents when it comes to choosing a snack food for their baby or toddler. On foot of research conducted amongst parents and industry experts, first prize in both the ‘best baby / toddler snack’ and ‘best baby/toddler snack for on the go’ sections was awarded to the popular pre-packed bananas, ‘Freddy Fyffes’.
TO celebrate their 25th Year of ground breaking theatre, Encore Productions have put together a truly historical show. Unfinished at the time of his death in 1400, ‘The Canterbury Tales’ was the first great poem to be written in what became modern English. In this work, Geoffrey Chaucer hugely expanded the language in terms of vocabulary, style and range. He did so just as printing techniques were being established - allowing his book to become one of the first best sellers of the medieval world. The poem was revolutionary – a cast of colourful characters from all walks of life, rich and poor, meet in a pub on their way to make pilgrimage at Canterbury Cathedral. To shorten the road they agree to a story telling competition. So begins a sequence of tales of every kind – talking animals and magic, crooked millers and drunken students, thieves, plague and vengeful maidens. Had Chaucer lived to complete the poem it would have been truly vastwith each of the twenty or so pilgrims telling two poems on the way to Can-
Mary Frances McAteer.
terbury and two on their way back to the Tabard Inn – the pub in London where the poem began. Even as it is, the range of the tales is dazzling, turning on a sixpence from saints to sinners, carpenters to cockerels, from the sacred to the profane. The visuals employed in this multimedia production are breath taking. Convincing medieval costume by Eileen Johnson is framed perfectly by the visionary films created by Dara McKluskey. Drawing on contemporary maps, landscape and the work of medieval artists the films allow the audience to follow the Pilgrims as they travel 100 miles on foot along the Thames, crossing rivers, winding paths and making camp amongst dark forests haunted by highwaymen. Geoffrey Chaucer, the poet himself, is played by Paddy Durnin while Dolores McKeever takes on the role of Alisoun –the famous Wife of Bath. Her tale is notable in its challenge to the traditional representation of Knights as being good and ‘chivalrous’. In her tale a Knight who has behaved badly toward a woman is taught a lesson in respect. This tale in particular
continues to be studied in secondary schools – both for its language and for its broadly feminist approach to the age old problem of misogyny. The rest of the cast combines experience and enthusiasm in equal measure and features –, Moninna McCarthy, Jamie Linden, Olivia McGinnity, Therese Baxter, Mary Frances McAteer, Sandra Shields, Anita Guest, Oliver HAnratty, Rodger Zyro, Martin Hanley, Nicki Cormican, Brendan O’Shea, David Coyle, Aoife Lawless and Alex Tamuyeye. Stage management is by Rachel Tinniswood and Grainne O’ Hanlon – both of whom also act in the production. The Canterbury Tales is directed by Sandy Sneddon. Encore’s actors all use RehabCare services in Dundalk and are Community Company in Residence with An Táin Arts Centre in Dundalk. Over the years they have developed a unique process in which they research and explore plays, their authors and styles of theatre then adapt them in a way that both plays to the strengths and adds to the skills of the individual actors within the ensemble.
Paddy Durnin. Working with limited physical resources and aiming to keep their shows light enough to tour they use film, light and atmospheric sound design to create an immersive world in which audiences can best enjoy the actor’s performances. The Canterbury Tales is the latest in a long line of innovative productions from Encore. For a quarter of a century this group of actors living with intellectual disabilities have strived to create theatre of beauty and depth and share it with the widest possible audiences – showcasing their skills, creativity and ability. Over the last 9 years alone they have tackled Shakespeare twice – The Tempest and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brought Brecht’s ‘Mother Courage’ and Durrenmatt’s ‘Visit’ to the Dundalk Stage and explored Greek theatre with their own piece ‘Aesop’. In 2024 they made a year long journey into the world of Samuel Beckett creating ‘The Beckett List’. This show told Beckett’s life story and introduced audiences to his unique style of theatre. The play was toured, culminating in a performance at The
Samuel Beckett Theatre in Trinity College Dublin. 2024 also saw the group featured in a special show on RTE’s Nationwide. Last year’s Frankenstein adaptation faithfully brought Mary Shelly’s creature to life in a production that was faithful to the original novel and played to packed houses at An Táin Dundalk and at The Hawkswell Theatre in Sligo. After its premiere in Dundalk, The Canterbury Tales will journey the long and winding road to An Griannan Theatre Donegal. The show is suitable for all age groups and is guaranteed to educate and entertain. Show venues and times: An Táin Theatre Dundalk, www.antain.ie. Tel 042 93 32332, Wednesday 21st October and Friday 23rd October at 8pm – Tickets €8.50 (plus €1.50 booking fee); Matinee Thursday 22nd October, 11am – Tickets €3.50 (plus €1.50 booking fee). An Grianán Theatre Letterkenny, www.angrianan.com. Tel 074 91 20777, Wednesday 1th November 1pm –Tickets –Tickets €5.50.
E-Scooter Laws In Ireland: New Rules Every Dundalk Rider Should Know By Darren Crawley LAST year, these pages examined the legal position surrounding electric scooters as Ireland prepared to introduce dedicated legislation governing their use. Since then, e-scooters have become an increasingly common sight on the streets of Dundalk, but so too have concerns about road safety, anti-social behaviour and serious injuries involving young riders. In response, the Government announced a significant tightening of Ireland’s e-scooter laws in July 2026. The new measures represent the biggest changes since e-scooters were first legalised and are designed to improve safety for riders, pedestrians and other road users alike. For anyone who owns or regularly uses an e-scooter, it is worth understanding exactly what has changed. E-scooters are now a familiar form of transport across Dundalk. They are regularly used by commuters travelling to work, students making their way to and from DKIT, and residents travelling between housing estates, the town centre and nearby amenities. They provide a convenient
and environmentally friendly alternative for short journeys, but they also carry responsibilities under Irish law. The most significant change announced by Government is that the minimum legal age for riding an e-scooter will increase from 16 to 18 years of age. The decision follows growing concern over the number of children and teenagers being seriously injured in e-scooter collisions, with medical professionals reporting a substantial increase in head injuries among young riders. Another major change is the introduction of mandatory safety equipment. Under the new regulations, riders will be required to wear an approved helmet and high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter on public roads. Previously, both were recommended but not legally required. The Government believes these measures will significantly reduce the severity of injuries while making riders more visible to motorists, particularly during darker evenings and poor weather conditions. The penalties for breaking the rules are also becoming tougher.
Fixed-charge notices for e-scooter offences will increase to €100, while the fee payable to recover a seized e-scooter will also rise. These measures are intended to strengthen enforcement and encourage greater compliance with the law. Despite the changes, many of the existing rules remain the same. E-scooters used on public roads must comply with strict technical standards, including a maximum design speed of 20 kilometres per hour. They must also be fitted with appropriate brakes, front and rear lights, reflectors
and an audible warning device such as a bell or horn. Where an e-scooter can be used is another area that often causes confusion. They are permitted on public roads and cycle lanes but are not permitted on footpaths. Riding on pavements may seem convenient, but it creates obvious risks for pedestrians, particularly children, older people and those with mobility difficulties. Riders are also prohibited from carrying passengers or using e-scooters to tow or transport goods. From a local perspective, these
changes are particularly relevant in Dundalk, where e-scooters have become increasingly common around the town centre, DKIT, the Inner Relief Road and the route to Blackrock. As their popularity has grown, so too has the need for riders to share the roads responsibly with motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Like Garda divisions across the country, local Gardaí continue to encourage safe and responsible use of e-scooters. While education remains an important part of enforcement, Gardaí also have powers to seize scooters being used illegally or dangerously, particularly where riders fail to comply with the legal requirements or where modified scooters exceed the permitted speed limits. The Government has also indicated that further reforms are planned. Future legislation is expected to introduce additional measures relating to registration, licensing and the sale of noncompliant e-scooters. While these proposals are not yet in force, they form part of a wider strategy aimed at improving road safety and reducing the number of serious collisions involving powered
personal transporters. Parents should also take note of the updated rules. E-scooters are no longer viewed simply as recreational toys but as vehicles capable of causing serious injury when used irresponsibly. Ensuring that young people understand the law, wear the appropriate safety equipment and use compliant scooters is becoming increasingly important. As Dundalk continues to embrace greener and more sustainable forms of transport, e-scooters are likely to remain a familiar feature of the town’s streets. Used responsibly, they offer a practical alternative to the car for shorter journeys while helping reduce congestion and emissions. Ultimately, the updated legislation is intended to strike a balance between encouraging sustainable transport and protecting public safety. By understanding the new rules, respecting other road users and using e-scooters responsibly, riders can help ensure this increasingly popular form of transport remains both safe and welcome throughout Dundalk.
Ancillary report funded by Coimisiún na Meán’s Courts Reporting Scheme
Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Second strike date for schools announced by unions LOCAL INTO representative Adrian Kelly says that nobody wants to see two proposed days of striking go ahead later this month but that teachers will be left with no choice if the government don’t engage in meaningful discussions. Members of the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI), the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) and the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action. Unions had already earmarked next Wednesday (October 14th) as the first of their planned strikes and on Monday they announced a second strike day set for a week later on the 21st October. Industrial action also officially commenced in the form of a work-to-rule
over delays in securing a new pay agreement. A work-to-rule industrial action involves a worker working strictly to the terms of their contract, role or function. Under the work-to-rule, teachers will work only their contracted hours. They will not supervise pupils who arrive at school early or remain after the end of the school day. Parent-teacher meetings will also have to take place during normal school hours. According to Adrian Kelly, INTO representative for District 5 which covers Louth, Cavan, Monaghan and East Meath, there is still time for the government to speak to union representatives and avoid potential strike action.
An Garda Síochána Crime Prevention Advice for Louth homeowners AN Garda Síochána has launched the Winter Phase of Operation Thor – this annual increased enforcement operation is aimed at preventing burglars from exploiting the reduced hours of daylight. Crime Prevention Officer for Louth, Sergeant John Heavey said: “The most common time for burglaries to occur during the winter is between 4pm to 8am. During those hours, it’s quite easy to pick out a vacant property if it’s in darkness. No light means nobody is at home, and this provides an easy target for the opportunistic burglar. “During the last three Winter Phases of Operation Thor, figures show that around one in every four (23.9%) residential burglaries, entry was gained through an unsecured door. “Burglary is a particularly insidious crime because it strikes at the place where people should be safest – their own home. The impact can go far beyond the loss of property and for many victims, the sense of intrusion can stay with them for a very long time. Some never fully get over the experience. “An Garda Síochána’s winter burglary message is Lock Up and Light Up. By leaving on a light or bringing one on with a timer switch after 5pm, creates the impression somebody is at home. While we’re all conscious of energy costs, LED bulbs are much cheaper to run and provide whiter brighter light. Smart bulbs, which connect to your Wi-Fi, can be programmed or controlled via a mobile app for added convenience. “Lock Up is an obvious crime prevention measure. Ensure all doors and windows have a good standard locking mechanism. Door and window security standards are important, as standards mean the item has
been tested to withstand a criminal attack for a prolonged period. Always make sure your vehicle is locked and that there is nothing left on the seat or visible from the windows. “Sheds and outhouses should also remain locked up, as should any valuable machinery or tools within. While a good quality padlock is recommended on the door, consider chaining together or anchoring down items such as lawnmowers, bicycles, boat engines and any other items that may not be in use over the winter. “Security is all about layers, and the first physical layer of security is your boundary wall, fence and gate. Keeping gates closed is a great deterrent as you’re laying out your patch, marking your territory – and anyone crossing that line uninvited or unauthorised is trespassing. So if you have entrance gates onto your property, my advice is to get into setting the good habit of keeping them closed. Good lighting outside your property and a house alarm also act as a good deterrent. Video doorbells are popular and are a cost-effective security measure,” said Sgt Heavey. Burglars are looking for cash and expensive jewellery. So with that in mind you should not keep large amounts of cash at home. Jewellery should be worn or stored in a safe or safety deposit box. To recap, Sgt Heavey’s five tips are: 1 Keep gates closed. 2 Have a light come on in your home from 5pm each evening. 3 Lock all doors, windows and outhouses using good quality locks and consider secondary retrofit locks. 4 Don’t keep large amounts of cash at home. 5 Use an alarm or video doorbell as a deterrent.
“Look, we have agreed to two full day strikes later this month but nobody wants them to go ahead. We want our children in the schools and we don’t want to inconvenience parents but we have to fight for what we were promised. “Our previous public sector pay deal expired at the end of June. Talks between the unions and the government have not taken place since then and as far as we are concerned the government
have not made any meaningful commitments on pay. INTO held two meetings yesterday and we decided that as well as a planned strike for the 14th we will also be striking on the 21st of October. “We have already began work-to-rule industrial action and our teachers who have been using the Croke Park hours to provide extra supervision before and after school will no longer do so. (Croke Park hours are additional working hours that were brought in by the Croke Park and subsequent Haddington Road agreements.) Adrian who is a primary school teacher in St Oliver Plunketts N.S near Ballybay in Monaghan said that support had been forthcoming from the majority of parents so far but he was aware
that could change if all out strikes take place later this month. “I can only speak for my own locality but I have to say most parents I’ve spoken to so far have been very supportive of our actions. Now, I am well aware that that support could dwindle if we go ahead with our two planned all day strikes as it will inconvenience a lot of parents who will have to plan alternative arrangements for their children if they are have to go to work. “Nobody wants to be doing this but we are in this for the long haul and we would hope that the government sit down with us and talk to us about new pay agreements that were supposed to be agreed last year,” concluded Adrian.
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
HER Event brings women with Type 1 diabetes together
WOMEN living with Type 1 diabetes from across Ireland will come together in Dundalk on Saturday 10 October for HER Event, More Than Type One - a new event created specifically around the reality of being a woman living with Type 1 diabetes. Taking place at the Fairways Hotel in Dundalk, the event has been created by Catherine Brady, a Type 1 diabetes coach who has lived with the condition for 23 years. HER Event is deliberately different from a traditional diabetes conference. Its focus is women first, diabetes second, with honest conversations around the issues that can have a huge impact on women’s lives but are not always openly discussed. The day will explore hormones,
fertility, pregnancy, menopause, stress, sleep, training, pelvic health, mental wellbeing, body confidence and the everyday reality of managing Type 1 diabetes. Catherine said: “I’ve spent years working with women with Type 1 diabetes and one thing I kept seeing was that they wanted somewhere to have the conversations that don’t always happen in traditional diabetes settings. “HER isn’t about being given another list of things we should be doing better. It’s about women being able to come together, hear honest experiences and talk about the things that actually affect our lives. “We’re women first and diabetes second - and that’s the whole rea-
Councils consider heritage trail linking Faughart and Creggan A PROPOSAL to bring the history of Faughart and Creggan together in one cross-border visitor trail has been discussed by Louth and Newry, Mourne and Down councils. Cllr John Reilly (FF) previously asked Louth County Council to write to the Tourism Minister about including south Armagh heritage sites, particularly Creggan, on the Ireland’s Ancient East website, arguing that the history did not stop at the border, even if the tourism promotion did. He returned to the subject at the council’s September meeting, asking what had happened to a separate proposal for a trail connecting Faughart and Creggan. A council official said the proposal had been discussed by the joint management team involving Louth County Council and Newry Mourne and Down District Council and remained under consideration.
Download The App! Look, old boy, you’re letting modern inventions pass you by You don’t even know how to download music on Spotify, And your pathetic attempts to renew your passport would make a child smile (Personally I can’t even see that it’s now worth your while!) Yet here you are still scribbling with your pen and your ink You’ll soon have artificial intelligence to help you to think; Modern technology not some sort of intellectual trap And you really must learn to download the app! It’s a rapidly changing world, in technology we trust, (Yes, well then, mutter and eff and blind if you must!) But we sent you some indecipherable hieroglyphs on your screen into which you can tap For if you need anything these days you have to download the app. I’ve been sifting through your poetic ramblings on existence and fate Take your finger from your mouth and get up to date For frankly old boy, you write a load of pretentious old c--p, Pick up your smartphone and download the app! —NOEL SHARKEY.
son I created this event.” The speaker line-up includes professionals and women with lived experience, with conversations designed to be practical, honest and relatable rather than clinical. Speakers include Dr Cathy Breen, Clinical Specialist Dietitian in Obesity & Diabetes; Dawn Adams, a woman living with Type 1 diabetes and a midwife whose work has focused on Type 1 diabetes and menopause; Patricia McCrystal, Chartered Psychologist specialising in diabetes distress and wellbeing; and Eimear Murphy, pelvic health physiotherapist. The event will also feature Aideen Furlong, sharing her personal lived experience of using a GLP-1 medica-
tion while living with Type 1 diabetes. Catherine said: “There are so many conversations around what women with Type 1 diabetes should or shouldn’t do. I wanted HER to be a place where we could have real conversations without judgement - including the complicated, messy and sometimes uncomfortable parts of living with this condition.” Around 50 women with Type 1 diabetes are expected to attend the inaugural event in Dundalk. Event details: HER Event, More Than Type One, Saturday 10th October, 2026, Fairways Hotel, Dundalk, Catherine Brady. Co. Louth.
Nominations open for the Louth Volunteer Leader Awards N O M I N AT I O N S are now open for the Louth Volunteer Leader Awards, celebrating the people who help volunteer groups thrive across County Louth. Behind every group of volunteers is a great volunteer leader. They might coordinate a team, make sure volunteers feel supported or simply keep everything running smoothly. Often working behind the scenes and rarely seeking the limelight, these leaders play an important role in helping their communities and are not always recognised for all they do. This year’s awards feature five categories: South Louth, Mid Louth, North Louth, Leading Young Volunteers and Trustee of the Year. A new Volunteer of the Year category has also been added. Volunteer leaders have
The Louth Volunteer Leader Awards take place on November 4th in Bellingham Castle.
valued being recognised through the awards and have said they would also like to celebrate the volunteers they support. The new category is a chance to shine a light on those volunteers and the difference they make. “We’ve been running the Louth Vol-
unteer Leader Awards for a number of years now,” said Olivia Conlon, Engagement & Operations Lead with Louth Volunteer Centre. “It’s wonderful to see how they’ve grown. Every year, the nominations tell inspiring stories about the people who give their time and
energy to support volunteering across Louth. Reading about the care, commitment and impact behind each nomination is a powerful reminder of how much these leaders and the volunteers they support mean to their communities.” The awards ceremony will take place
on 4 November at Bellingham Castle, ahead of International Volunteer Managers Day on 5 November. If you know someone who deserves to be recognised, you can nominate them by scanning the QR code or visiting our website: www.volunteerlouth.ie.
Pothole still not fixed after two tyre claims A POTHOLE which burst the tyres of two motorists had still not been repaired after both got their money back, Louth County Council has heard. According to Cllr Sionnan McCann (SF) two people had contacted her since the previous council meeting, one had made a claim directly to the council and
the other had gone through their insurance company to get reimbursed for the damage caused. She asked why the pothole had not been treated as a priority once the claims were dealt with. “In my mind, that would make that priority one,” she said. “ You should do that the minute you have to
end up paying someone for a claim and that pothole still hasn’t been fixed.” Her question was what the process was when that happened. “When we’re actually paying out money to people for infrastructural deficits, what is the timeline to then bump that up the chain to get it fixed?”
A council official said claims are recorded on heat maps, where a claim or number of incidents is highlighted at specific locations and asked Cllr McCann to send the location of the pothole directly to him or the operations team so they could look into it.
Dowdallshill GFC to celebrate 140th anniversary DOWDALLSHILL GFC are celebrating a significant milestone in the club’s history with a special function in the clubrooms on Saturday October 17th. The St Brigid’s Park outfit is 140 years in existence and are inviting all associated with the club to attend what promises to be a memorable night. The celebration will feature a history talk with Frank O’Callaghan while the 1970 Junior Championship winning team will be honoured. Doors open at 7.30pm and food will be served at 8pm. Cost is just €10 and all are welcome to attend. Tickets available from Ernie Finnegan 087 6186389, Dixie Quinn 0879495739 and Louie Mulholland 086 8170729.
GOT A STORY? We want to hear from you Phone: 042 932 0888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM
KELLY Terry and Amy In loving memory of Terry and Amy Kelly, late of 34 Fatima Drive, who died 20th September, 2013. And 21st October 2012. Your names are often spoken, Our thoughts are still with you, You’ll never be forgotten, To us you never will. —Loved and missed by Roisin, Maria and their families.
GRIMES (Nee Smyth) Therese 2nd ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Therese, late of Rathmount, Blackrock and Wicklow Town, whose second anniversary occurred recently. Will those who think of her today, A little prayer to Jesus say. —Always loved and remembered by husband Liam; daughter Danielle; son - in - law Peter and grand-daughter Clíona.
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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M.T.
NOVENA
ARTICLES FOR SALE
SPECIAL SERVICES
SITUATIONS WANTED
PLANNING NOTICES
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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). T.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). C.P. 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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). J.R. 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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). R.M.
SECONDHAND KITCHEN FOR SALE—Ivory shaker style kitchen. Granite worktops , Tbar Handles. 3.6m run with sink and an additional 1.15m breakfast bar. 1.8m tall units. 1.2m hob area. Can be viewed in Dundalk area. €950.00. Contact 087 2459327.
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. MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 087 - 6067122. 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. 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. CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING— Trusted for over 30 years. Expert care, sparkling results. Call Patrick on 0872492325 or visit www.carpetcleaningservices.ie. Pat the Painter. Indoor & outdoor decorating. Wallpapering, Power Washing, Picture, Mirror and Curtain Pole Hanging, Painting Kitchen Units & Furniture, DIY. Free quotations Email patthepainter1@gmail.com Mob 087 2951047. DMC GARDEN Maintenance services. Hedges, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower, strimming, weeding beds, moss removal, demolition and removal of old sheds, fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. For free quote please call 087 7019178. POWERWASHING AT ELITE Window Cleaning, Roof Cleaning, Fascia, Soffits and gutter cleaning, Sheds etc. Maintenance services also available. Contact David 087 4338418. ALL-SEASONS Gardening Services. Gardens cleaned and cleared, tree felling, hedge cutting, stone, gravel, chippings. Steam cleaning roofs & driveways. Roof repairs. Local, professional, fully insured Tel Sean 087 349 5477. GRAVE CARE—We provide a reliable and caring service throughout Dundalk and surrounding areas. Grave Tending, Headstone Cleaning, Lettering Repainting, Flower and Wreath Placement and Regular Care visits available. - Caring for your loved ones’ final resting place - For enquiries please call 0892521646 or email grainne@cherishgraves.com Follow us on Instagram cherish—graves— or check out our website www.cherishgraves.com. PLASTERING DONE to high standard. Small, internal jobs only. Contact Matt 086 8188277. REFACE YOUR KITCHEN/wardrobes. Transform your old kitchen units with a respray. 40 years + experience. Tel Shanlis Kitchens 087 9839695. SIDE GATES supplied and fitted. Made to Order. Fence panels supplied and fitted. Call Jessie 087 6429223 or Joe 087 2317666. HERITAGE PAINTING & Decorating. Residential & Commercial. Reputation built on recommendations. Internal & External, dustless sanding system, wallpapering & Murals. Call Colin 087 7874173 Email colin@heritagepainting.ie. uPVC/ALUMINIUM window and door repairs. Replace double glazing units, locks, handles, hinges, and general service/adjustments contact Niall 089 9553774 anytime. LOUTH ROOFING—Trusted local roofers available for roof repairs, guttering, fascia, soffits & chimney work. 24 hour emergency call-outs. Call 0857463207.
CARER AVAILABLE for evenings, weekends and nights, have QQI level 5. Can get references if required Phone Paula 083 2039891.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Dara Conway & Alan Cox, wish to apply to Louth County Council for permission to construct part single story / part two-storey dwelling with detached domestic garage/store, install a wastewater treatment system and percolation area and all associated site development works at Littlemill, Ballybarrack, 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 the planning authority, County Offices, The Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth 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 (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation 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. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Caroline & Dawn Mulroy, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at 180 Greenacres, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 E9C9. The development will consist of: Retention of single storey extensions and alterations to an existing dwelling house, attached domestic garage & wc 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: McCoy Building Surveying & Design, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 C3W7 Tel. 0871410372. E-mail: shane@mccoybsd.com. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Padraig O’Callaghan, intend to apply for Planning Permission for development to comprise extension and alterations to existing dwellinghouse, new effluent treatment plant and percolation area, new detached domestic garage and all associated site works at Courtbane, Hackballscross, 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.
MOTORS FOR SALE 152 VW CRAFTER for sale, medium wheel base, high roof, 253k km, DOE’d 10-27, taxed 07-27, clutch done 9 months ago, timing belt done 12 months ago, very good condition. Quick sale due to emigrating, €6,500 Tel 083 4162364.
ARTICLES WANTED WANTED—All your old GAA, Dundalk, Irish programmes and Tickets, the older the better. Check you attics and your sheds. Contact Ger on 086 2630363 or GCProgrammes@gmail. com.
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. TWO BEDROOMS AVAILABLE to rent Carrick Rd, Dundalk. May suit students. Separate Bathroom, Kitchen & Livingroom from owner. Tel 087 9536395.
SPECIAL SERVICES CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—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 087-225-9799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. 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, clean Solar panels, 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 086607-1702. 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 & BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. KEVIN McMAHON ELECTRICAL Dundalk, small household jobs, safe electrical approved Tel 087 2548221 after 5pm.
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. LINE DANCING Dance classes every Tuesday at 7pm. Gaels GFC Hall Rampart Road. A91 WD. Beginners welcome. Contact 087 2618773.
PERSONAL GENT—Early 60s, wishes to hear from other males for friendship. Various interests, age unimportant, Louth area. Genuine advert. Text 087 3802671.
PLANNING NOTICES LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Rickey Nesbitt, intend to apply for Permission for development at Newtownbalregan, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: Permission for Change of house-type previously granted permission under planning reference no. 22578 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, Kurt Murphy, intends to apply for Permission Consequent on the Grant of Outline Permission under Planning Ref No. 2560531 for development at Lower Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: Permission consequent for a dwelling house, wastewater treatment system 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.
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com
‘There’ll be somebody killed’: Yore urges Halloween Warning over anti-social revellers to think of behaviour at M1 park-and-ride neighbours and pets CARS “whizzing around” an M1 park-and-ride at weekends have sparked a warning that someone could be killed unless the problem is brought under control. Fianna Fáil Cllr Shane McGuinness told this month’s Louth County Council that around 11 vehicles were “flying around” the Junction 16 car park during the latest incident, adding that Gardai were aware of it and a pickup truck was later seen collecting vehicles. “There was a lot of antisocial behaviour going on at the weekend, and it seems to be happening most weekends,” he said after raising the matter at the meeting. “It seems to be a meeting point for young drivers with fast cars. They are going down there and whizzing around, driving at speed.” Cllr McGuinness said he believed a number of vehicles may have collided, although this has not been independently confirmed. While park-and-ride facilities worked well for commuters during the day, he said the concern was what happened at night and over the weekend. “They are a big tarmacked area where people can go and drive at high speeds, and local residents are really not happy with it,” he said. He also questioned who was
Cllr Shane McGuinness. monitoring the CCTV already installed at Junction 16. “There is CCTV there, but it seems to be no use,” he said. “I don’t know who is monitoring it or who is controlling it. “You should be able to look at the CCTV, get the registrations of these cars and these people should be fined.” He also raised concerns given that further park-and-ride facilities were being planned elsewhere in Louth, saying the issue needed to be addressed. “There is nobody managing the CCTV,” he told the meeting. “There’ll be somebody killed down there if we don’t
PEOPLE celebrating Halloween in Blackrock and other areas are being asked to spare a thought for older residents, people with sensory issues and frightened pets. Independent Cllr Maeve Yore has appealed for people to be mindful of the effect fireworks can have on others, particularly when they are being set off close to homes. The comments came after several community stakeholder meetings she had with An Garda Siochána in Louth over the last year, with the councillor saying Sergeant Ronan Carroll of Blackrock Garda Station had met with a number of community groups, Residents Association Representatives and Blackrock Tidy Towns in Blackrock Park to discuss Gardaí policing plans for the area do something about it.” ahead of Halloween. This, she said, was to make In response, the council official said the local authority had not been aware of the reported activity and agreed that the Louth Local Community Safety Partnership was the best place to raise it iniLOUTH homeowners have been tially, but said, “That is a con- spared a rise in Local Property Tax cern going forward.” next year after councillors voted to “I will be speaking with the keep the rate unchanged for 2027, afGardai at the community fo- ter councillors argued that even a rum and I’ll be raising this is- small increase would be difficult to justify while household costs remain sue with them,” Cllr Mc Guin- high for people. ness concluded. During the special meeting of An Garda Siochána have Louth County Council on 29th Sepbeen contacted for comment. tember, the proposal was carried by 19 votes, with 10 councillors absent. Green Party Cllr Marianne Butler proposed making no change to the rate, telling the meeting she did not believe this was the time to put another charge on households in the county. “I just think there’s so much going on in the world right now,” she said, had been any progress in identify- referencing the pressure people had faced during the cost-of-living crisis ing a suitable location. Possible park-and-ride sites in and following the outbreak of war in the mid-Louth area have been Ukraine, and said many households under consideration for some were still struggling with everyday bills. time. Councillors were previously “It might only be 20 quid for a lot of told that locations near Ardee people, but that might be 20 quid too were being examined, including much for some people, especially land around the N33 at Staban- when they’re facing increases in pubnon. However, no preferred site lic transport charges as well, and inhas yet been publicly confirmed. creases in their shopping basket every A council official said an up- week, in their groceries, and in heatdate would be sought and brought ing their homes.” back to councillors. Independent Cllr Maeve Yore sec-
Council pressed for update on Ardee park-and-ride plans A FRESH update is being sought on plans for a park-and-ride facility in the Ardee area, as commuters continue to struggle to find suitable places to leave their cars before catching buses to Dublin. Cllr Rachel Kerley (FG) raised the issue at the latest meeting of Louth County Council, saying a facility was needed to serve people living between Dundalk and Drogheda. “There is a major problem with parking,” she said, adding com-
muters needed somewhere safe to leave their cars and board or get off buses, rather than parking in unsuitable locations or driving all the way to the capital. “We need to make sure there are appropriate places for people to park their cars, so that people aren’t continuing to drive to Dublin and cause further congestion,” she said. She asked the council to contact Transport Infrastructure Ireland and establish whether there
Cllr Maeve Yore. sure everyone gets to enjoy a safe Halloween in Blackrock and further afield, and also to raise awareness around the illegal misuse of fireworks which she labelled as “dangerous.” “Unfortunately, the Gardai have already received reports of unsupervised teens, and children
as young as 11 letting off fireworks in this park,” said Cllr Yore. She added the Gardaí in Louth will be increasing patrols in “hotspots” such as Blackrock Park ahead of Halloween and made an appeal to parents to keep an eye on their children. “Parents, your children are your responsibility, so please ensure that you know where they are and be sure that they are not involved in the illegal use of fireworks! We’re sure you’d rather have trick or treaters and not us calling to your homes on Halloween night,” said Cllr Yore. “Everyone wants to enjoy Halloween so it’s important that people are cognisant of safety by not directing them at each other or houses, of older people, people with sensory issues and pets who find the volume and noise of the fireworks very frightening.”
Relief for Louth homeowners as councillors rule out property tax hike for 2027 onded the proposal, saying she had taken the same position since she was elected and argued that national government should be adequately funding local government to deliver the more than 1,100 services provided by local authorities nationwide. Sinn Féin Cllr Kevin Meenan also backed the proposal, saying, “We have to take into consideration the precarious position the world is in at the moment, and how that’s going to play out, and how that may affect people going forward,” he said. “It’s just not the right time to do that.” He also pointed to the approach of winter and concerns around fuel costs and the general cost of living, while Labour’s Cllr Pio Smith, also said he supported leaving the rate as it was. “Inflation is affecting everybody, it’s affecting the council. It’s affecting householders. It’s affecting the communities,” Fine Gael’s Cllr Robert Nash told the meeting, adding councillors had to listen to the people who elected them. “They definitely don’t want a rise in property tax, whether it’s nine cents a week or 20 quid a year. It’s just not the right time.” Before the vote, Director of Finance Bernadette Woods reminded members that every 1% increase would bring in around €115,000 extra
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for Louth County Council and a full 25% increase would raise about €2.8 million. During the debate, Chief Executive David Conway also intervened to make clear that council management was not pushing members towards any particular decision. “The executive have no view in this whatsoever,” he said. “We totally respect what you propose.” He said the executive was “agnostic” on the decision and would work with whatever councillors agreed when drawing up the council budget. Cllr Butler later said councillors had at times felt conflicted over LPT because previous discussions had given the impression that an increase might be needed to plug a gap in council finances but Independent Cllr Kevin Callan disagreed, saying he had never felt conflicted about his position. “I’ve always said I had a problem with local government being asked to apply taxes to people,” he said, adding that he believed that role belonged to central government. Louth homeowners will now pay the same Local Property Tax rate in 2027 as they did in 2026. Councillors in Loutj also left the rate unchanged last year.
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com
‘I’m not talking about Calls for curbs on specific occupying Northern Ireland’: businesses and data Council backs Garda access call
LOUTH County Council has backed a call for gardaí to be given access to Junction 20 at Carrickarnon after councillors were told gardaí were being forced to make a potentially dangerous turn on the M1 rather than briefly cross the border into Northern Ireland. At the September meeting of Louth County Council, Fine Gael Cllr John Reilly asked the council to write to the Minister of Justice to facilitate An Garda Síochána to access the M1 motorway at Junction 20 at Carrickarnon, to facilitate better policing in the area. The issue had been brought to his attention by two serving members of the gardaí who, according to Cllr Reilly, raised concerns about policing and patrolling the area at Junction 20 of the M1 motorway in the area of the Carrickdale Hotel. “They are not permitted to access the motorway at Junction 20,” the councillor told the meeting. Instead, he said, they can be left having to use a gap in the central reservation and turn back across the motorway, adding that this was particularly concerning during a pursuit, with gardaí having to pull into the central reservation before turning into the overtaking lane of traffic coming in the opposite direction. He also pointed to recent media coverage that had been drawing attention to people going the wrong way on the motorways and said what the gardaí have to do is “essentially a u-turn on the motorway”. The meeting also heard, accord-
Cllr John Reilly. ing to Cllr Reilly, that because of this, gardaí “were reluctant to get into any pursuit.” “Its not that they don’t want to do it, it’s the manoeuvre,” he said. “We are expecting gardaí to go into the little indentation on the fast lane of one of the busiest roads in Ireland and do a u-turn into the fast lane of oncoming traffic going in the other direction. “Take the politics completely out of it. It’s not safe,” Cllr Reilly said, adding the difficulty had arisen from the way the modern road was laid out. Cllr Antóin Watters (SF) said he understood the practical problem and had himself attended meetings with gardaí and the PSNI about dangerous driving and “boy racers” in the area but understood the two police services already worked together sharing two-way radios. However, he said the discussion also raised the wider question of the border and the possibility of a United Ireland.
“We can write to the Minister but there is always going to be issues with a border imposed on the people of Ireland. “Let’s bring it up and start talking about unity because that’s what will sort this problem once and for all,” he said. His party colleague, Cllr Fiona Mhic Conchoille raised a different concern, questioning whether allowing gardaí to cross briefly into Northern Ireland could lead to calls for the PSNI to be given similar access south of the border. “You can’t ask the gardaí to have access to the North and ask the PSNI not to come down here, and they are an armed police force,” she said. Having lived close to the border for around 60 years, Cllr Reilly told the meeting that he had seen stretches of road used by both police services and believed a practical protocol could be found. “I’m not talking about occupying Northern Ireland here,” he said. “I’m talking about driving 120 metres into the North and coming back out into the South.” He added, “I wouldn’t ask anybody, an active serving member of gardaí, to make a move like that on the motorway, all for the sake of going 120 metres to a perfectly safe roundabout.” When the possibility of a roll-call vote was raised, Cllr Watters said he had no issue with the motion, although he believed there was a wider political question behind it. The motion was subsequently passed.
‘Not fair’ to leave Carlingford volunteers clearing overflowing bins CARLINGFORD Tidy Towns volunteers were left clearing overflowing bins and litter on the weekend of the Cooley Sheep Breeders’ Annual Show and Sale, held on Greenore Road on Saturday, 5th Cllr Fiona Mhic Conchoille (SF) has told the council at this month’s meeting. She said the event, good weather and large numbers of day-trippers and weekend visitors had brought unusually large crowds to the village, but stressed that her concerns were about bin collections, with no criticism of the organisers. Questioning why the council had not extended its summer weekend collections when the event was known about well in advance, she said, “Volunteers
from Carlingford Tidy Towns were left to deal with overflowing bins and litter on Sunday morning. “The group gives up its time week after week to keep Carlingford looking its best for residents and visitors alike, only to be faced with clearing large volumes of litter left behind after a busy weekend. “This is not fair on volunteers who work so hard to maintain the village and should not be left carrying the burden of cleaning up after weekend revellers.” Cllr Mhic Conchoille described the sheep breeders’ event as valued and well-run, bringing many visitors to the area. “The issue is not the event itself, but ensuring that waste col-
centres in Louth
Cllr Maeve Yore asked for a moratorium on data centres.
LOUTH’S shopping streets do not need more vape shops, barbers or bookies, Independent Cllr Maeve Yore has said, calling for tighter controls on businesses opening in town centres.
on specific shops opening.
Attention then turned to data centres, with Cllr Yore saying she believed developments elsewhere were putting pressure on the electricity network and contributing to At this month’s meeting of outages. Louth County Council, she “I ask that we consider a asked if a moratorium could moratorium on data centres be introduced to “prevent to protect our energy supplies oversaturation of one parand the environment in Louth ticular business”, also asking and I want to know how we go vape shops and barbers kept about that,” said Cllr Yore. out of the Rates Waiver Responding, a council offiScheme, which helps busicial explained that there were nesses locate in vacant commercial premises in town cen- no contracted data centres in tres to encourage diversity of Louth and nationally, there is a moratorium on the proviretail opportunities. A council official confirmed sion of data centres, subject to that those types of shops were provisions towards renewable in eligible to avail of the and sustainable energy.
tre provide a minimum of 80% of sustainable energy towards it,” the official told the meeting, adding it was “having the positive intended consequence of accelerating green infrastructure in the country”. The official pointed councillors to a government-commissioned KPMG report on the value of data centres, saying that any discussion of the sector should also take account of its economic benefits, while it was also noted that any policy would have to be dealt with through the County Development Plan.
“If it is helping with one hand and hindering with another, I think it’s a huge con“Any planning permission cern and I want that noted in scheme, but no response was lection arrangements are sufficient when large visitor numbers given to Cllr Yore addressing in Ireland for new data cen- the minutes,” Cllr Yore reher request for a moratorium tres requires that a data cen- plied. are expected,” she said. She also asked whether the council would consider a contribution from event organisers to help pay for additional collections outside the extended summer collection period. Responding, a council official said, “It’s unfortunate. We do try LOUTH County Council has the club had asked for the come before councillors for to tie in extra bin collections been asked to cut back trees trees to be cut back. review, referring to a motion with the events.” on council land beside Young “They are our trees, council on the policy which was raised The official suggested that the volume of waste may have been Irelands GAA club in Dund- trees,” he said, adding that the earlier this year. council should carry out the particularly large, but acknowl- alk. In relation to the mainteCllr Shane McGuinness maintenance “and not expect edged, “I don’t know the specifnance, the official said the reics of that” adding they would (FF) told the September meet- them to be doing it”. Independent Cllr Ciarán quest would be passed on, and check with the operations teams ing of Louth County Council to ensure provision was being the club was having problems Fisher then asked when the on the review, he would come made to prevent similar prob- with trees growing over the council’s policy on maintain- back to councillors with a lems. hedges and ditches and that ing trees in urban areas would timeframe.
Council asked to tackle overgrown trees beside Young Irelands
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
DUNDALK GRAMMAR SCHOOL SUPPORTS PARK ‘N’ STRIDE DURING ROAD SAFETY WEEK
AS part of Road Safety Week 2026, which takes place from 5 to 11 October, Dundalk Grammar School has joined with Louth County Council, An Garda Síochána and Dundalk Chamber of Commerce to encourage parents and students to make their journeys to and from school safer, healthier and more sustainable through the Park ‘n’ Stride initiative. Park ‘n’ Stride allows parents, guardians and students who register for the scheme to avail of up to two hours of free parking per day at designated car parks displaying the Park ‘n’ Stride logo, before completing the final part of their journey on foot. This includes one hour between 8.30am and 9.30am and a further 60
Teacher Louise Clarke and junior and senior pupils from Dundalk Grammar School, at the launch of Park ‘n’ Stride in Dundalk. minutes between 1pm and 4pm. Participating Park ‘n’ Stride locations in Dundalk include McEntee Avenue Car Park; Rogers Car Park, Rampart Road; Dundalk Library; Rampart
Road Long Term Car Park; Meadow Grove Car Park; Aura Leisure; St Joseph’s Redemptorist Car Park; Linenhall Street Car Park; The Longwalk Long Stay Car Park; Clanbrassil Centre Car Park; Long-
walk Shopping Centre; Tesco Extra Car Park; and the Lidl car parks at Avenue Road and St Helena’s Terrace. Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, welcomed the initiative,
saying: “Road Safety Week provides an important opportunity to remind us of the role we all play in keeping our roads safe. Park ‘n’ Stride is a simple but effective initiative that can help reduce conges-
tion around schools, improve safety for pupils and encourage healthy habits through walking. I encourage families across Dundalk to consider taking part.” Caralyn Ferris, Principal of Dundalk Grammar Junior School, also encouraged parents and guardians to avail of Park ‘n’ Stride, saying: “Children travelling to school by car can contribute to increased congestion outside the school in the mornings and afternoons. A short walk from a designated Park ‘n’ Stride location can help ease traffic bottlenecks at the school gates while also incorporating valuable physical activity into daily routines.” Park ‘n’ Stride is supported by An Garda Síochána. Garda Dar-
mental sustainability and help them develop important road safety awareness and skills.” The initiative has also been welcomed by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, with President Hannah McDonnell saying: “The Chamber is pleased to support this initiative, which benefits schools, families and the wider community. By encouraging people to park in designated locations and walk the remainder of their journey, Park ‘n’ Stride can help reduce congestion while also creating opportunities for people to make use of local businesses and services.” To register for Park ‘n’ Stride, visit www.louthcoco.ie/ParknStride
Dundalk Group of Parishes to host Harvest Harmony Festival Weekend
Any potential traitors in Dundalk? THE Traitors Ireland is coming back to our screens and looking for the next batch of players for Season 3 of the hit RTÉ series. Season 2 aired this Autumn on RTÉ One and fans of the show were hooked week after week as players were murdered and banished, deceived by the Traitors. Hosted by Siobhan McSweeney, Series 2 was a major Irish television success and now the producers are opening up casting for Series 3. The nail-biting psychological reality competition sees a group of strangers arrive at the iconic Slane Castle to play the ultimate game of deception, betrayal and trust, all in the hope of winning up to €50,000. But, hidden amongst them are the Traitors, who will attempt to secretly murder a player every night, without getting caught. It’s up to the others, the Faithfuls, to try to detect who the Traitors are, and banish them from the game, before they become their next victim. Each day, the group embark on Missions as they work together to add more money to the prize pot. For the lucky ones who survive to the end, they have the chance of winning that life-changing cash, but if a Traitor remains undetected, they’ll steal all the money. The first two seasons have had such standout characters and now we’re on the hunt for people who think they can bring something different to the game. Do you think you have what it takes to lie and deceive your fellow players? Do you think you’d make a good Traitor hunter? Application details are below: You are, or will be at least 18 years old at the time of applying for The Traitors Ireland; You have the right to legally reside in Ireland; You must be available to take part in the programme for up to 3 weeks currently anticipated to be in March/ April 2027. Please note that this may change at our discretion without notice. Link to Application Form: https://eu.castitreach. com/ag/kite/traitorsireland/welcome.html.
ragh Prior of the Community Policing Unit said: “Using the designated Park ‘n’ Stride car parks can help reduce congestion around schools, making these areas safer for children. It can also reduce the stress associated with trying to find parking close to the school.” Noel Treanor, Senior Executive Engineer in Louth County Council’s Active Travel Section, highlighted the benefits of the initiative, saying: “Initiatives such as Park ‘n’ Stride and the Safe Routes to School programme can encourage people to incorporate more active travel into their daily journeys. Walking the final part of the journey to school can support children’s physical health, contribute to environ-
Cheque presentation from the 27 Inf Bn for €3,400. Divided equally between Redeemer Girls School and the Michael McNeela Branch ONE in Aiken Military Barracks, on Friday 18/9/26. Photo shows: L/R A/Sgt Major Anthony O’Reilly, Helena Sullivan, Patrick O’ Rourke Principal, Comdt. Mark Sullivan 2 I/C 27 Inf Bn, Mick Reid ONE, Pupils in front Una O’ Keeffe and Tiannah McCabe.
McGreehan encourages Louth sports clubs to prepare for Sports Capital Funding Applications FIANNA Fáil TD for Louth Erin McGreehan is encouraging sports clubs and organisations across the constituency to prepare for the opening of the Sports Capital Funding portal. The registration portal is set to open on Monday, 28th September, giving clubs and organisations an initial three-week period to check and confirm their registration details ahead of the formal application process. Applications for Sports Capital Funding will formally open on 19th October, with applications remaining open until 26th February. Deputy McGreehan is encouraging clubs to use the initial registration period to ensure all
their details are in order and to begin preparing for the application process. “Sports clubs and organisations across Louth play an incredibly important role in our communities, providing opportunities for people of all ages to participate in sport, stay active and build strong community connections. She continued: “The Sports Capital Funding programme provides an important opportunity for clubs to invest in their facilities and equipment, and I would encourage every club considering an application to start preparing now. The registration portal opens on Monday, 28th September,
with formal applications opening on 19th October and closing on 26th February,” she said. Concluding she said: “I am very happy to assist clubs in Louth where I can, so please do not hesitate to get in touch with me if your club has any questions or needs assistance with the process.” Deputy McGreehan is encouraging clubs to take advantage of the initial three-week registration period and ensure they are ready ahead of the formal opening of applications. Sports clubs and organisations in Louth can contact Deputy McGreehan at erin.mcgreehan@ oireachtas.ie for assistance.
THE Dundalk Group of Parishes will host their annual Harvest Harmony Festival Weekend, taking place at St Nicholas’ Parish Church—the Green Church, Dundalk—from Saturday 17th to Monday 19th October 2026. Presented in partnership with Louth County Council and PEACEPLUS, this free cultural event celebrates youth, music and community, filling our historic church with beautiful harvest decorations, wonderful music and voices from across the border. The church will be open throughout the festival weekend to welcome everyone. Saturday 17th October | 11.00 am–4.00 pm— Visit the church to enjoy its beautiful harvest decorations and music from Music Generation as we celebrate National Harp Day. Visitors will also have the opportunity to try playing a harp themselves! Sunday 18th October—Enjoy organ recitals following the 11.00 am service, then join us at 7.30 pm for our traditional Harvest Thanksgiving and Songs of Praise Service, featuring St Nicholas’ Choir. Monday 19th October | 10.00 am–3.00 pm— Our Harvest Harmony Youth Choir Day will welcome primary and secondary schools from both sides of the border to share their music. At 3.00 pm, the visiting choirs will join together for a joyful finale, filling the Green Church with song. Everyone is warmly invited to come along, enjoy the music and experience the welcome of the Green Church. Admission is free.
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
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Dundalk Leader 7th October 2026
Darts league return a ‘Dunn’ deal Windows
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THE Dundalk and District Dart League kicked off their season with the introduction of the Eamon “Skinner” Matthews Cup to its darts Calendar. Eamon was part of the backbone of darts in Dundalk and the surrounding areas for many years and alongside his good friends Dermie Ralph and Paddy Dixon R.I.P. they helped make darts in Dundalk a great success. 12 doubles teams qualified for finals night in the Avenue Inn from an initial 31 teams. Eamon’s granddaughter did the draw and it threw up some cracking fixtures.. A mouthwatering clash was in-store with Stephen Ogle & Johnny Stewart up against the Dunns team of Daniel & Conor. Stephen and Johnny raced into a 2 game lead but the lads clawed their way back into it, Stephen just missing tops for a 160 checkout and the Dunn boys kept plugging away for a 3-2 win. The Dillon boys, Mark & Barry beat the mother and son team of Marianne & Aaron Taaffe before playing Niall Hinchey and Aaron Coyne,
Halloween Ball Run
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SAINT Mary’s National School Parents & Friends Group in Knockbridge are hosting a special community event taking place at the school on Sunday, 18th October at 12.30pm. A Halloween Ball Run to raise funds towards the school’s outdoor classroom and sensory garden is in the process of being organised and all are welcome to attend. It promises to be a fun afternoon for children and families, with plenty happening on the day. As part of the event, the committee will also officially open their new outdoor classroom, which has been built thanks to the incredible efforts of volunteer dads, grandads and past pupils, along with funding and fundraising by the Parents & Friends group. There will be refreshments served on the day, a raffle with fantastic prizes, and prizes for the best Halloween costumes. Organisers are encouraging families to come along dressed up and join in the fun. People can also support the fundraiser by purchasing a ball online. One ball costs €10, or 3 balls cost €20, with all proceeds going towards the cost of the materials to build the school’s outdoor classroom and sensory garden. Balls can be purchased online here: https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/stmarysnationalschoolparents.
Daniel Dunn, Conor Dunn and members of the Matthews Family. the Dillon boys weren’t let get into the game and despite them both hitting big scores it was Niall and Aaron who would progress to the final. Previous to that, Niall and Aaron had beaten Darren Ludlow and Alan Dullaghan
in a game that went to the deciding game. The Dunn boys were gathering up a head of steam and after eliminating another family team of Callum & Joanne who are Daniel’s son and Conor’s mum respectively, they would
go on to beat Dylan Kirk and Tiernan Murphy to reach the final. The Dunn boys laid down an early marker and picked up a few games lead but despite Aaron and Niall throwing well and picking up a few wins, it would be the Dunn’s who would go on to win the final 5-2. A big thanks to Dermot Ralph for sponsoring the trophy on the night, the last player to win the cup was Stephen Mc Donald and previous winners are like a who’s who of darts with Pat Mc Hugh, Bertie Roddy, Basil Mc Quillan, Danny Maguire, Jim Mc Quillan, Packie Fretwell, Brendan Rice & Tommy Dunn among others named on the cup. A big thank you to the 3 venues (Avenue Inn, Commercial Club & Northend) who hosted last week’s qualifiers and this week’s final, a generous donation from them added to the prize pot. And last but not least, a massive thank you to Eileen, Paul, Eamon, Sinead and the rest of the family for allowing us to play for the cup in Eamon’s memory.
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