DISCRIMINATION
Hospital accused of discriminating against non-medical card holders
By Paul Byrne
OUR Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda is no longer accepting biopsy samples from GP practices unless the patient holds a medical card. The decision has been slammed by local Fianna Fáil councillor Shane McGuinness who stated that this decision will not only result in a financial burden to those without a medical card but could potentially also create a serious barrier to timely diagnosis.
Last February a letter was sent from the Consultant Histopathologist and the Laboratory Manager in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda to all local
GP’s confirming that the practice of local GP’s doing histological analysis on samples would cease. They cited capacity issues compounded by a staffing crisis within the pathology service for the change in policy.
The decision means that GP’s in this area will no longer be able to take a biopsy from a suspicious skin lesion, or remove (and curing) a cancer such as a basal cell cancer or a squamous cell cancer – the two most common skin cancers in Ireland.
Those without a medical card will now have to travel to Dublin to visit consultants, often paying €300 or more for the procedure plus costs.
Continued on Page 2
91 year old Patsy McGeary recently celebrated the arrival of his great great grandson James with his son Pat, Pat’s sons Christopher and Patrick, Pat’s grandson Sean, along with Christopher’s sons Harry and Chris with his newborn son James. L-R Patrick, Chris, baby James, Pat, Sean (back), Harry (front), Christopher and great-great grandfather, Patsy McGeary.
Exhibition of scaled model layout of Dundalk Railway Works this weekend
DUNDALK Railway Heritage Society will host an exhibition in Credit Union Office (formerly Houstons) 4/5 Clanbrassil Street Dundalk from 11.00am to 5.00pm over two days on Saturday 12th July and Sunday 13th July.
The exhibition features a scale model layout of the Railway Works in Dundalk (Ardee Road) and was built by the Model Railway Society of Ireland members over nine years. The buildings where modelled from old photographs, drawings and a couple of trips up to Dundalk to see what’s left. Most of the rolling stock that runs on the layout is either scratch built or “modified ready to run”. Ranging from the early steam Enterprise right up to the latest Enterprise.
The Works exhibition will show all the buildings of the Railay Works as well as a model of the Boyne Bridge, the Railway Viaduct in Drogheda as well as models of various steam engines.
The model is scaled to a 4mm/1ft representation of the GNR workshops in Dundalk which closed in 1958. This will be a fascinating exhibition for old and young and as well as the exhibition, Thomas
the Tank engine will also be making an appearance to keep younger train enthusiasts happy.
Model Railway Exhibition will be open from 11.00am to 5.00pm on Saturday 12th and
Sunday 13th July. But thanks to Model Railway Society of Ireland the Dundalk Railway Heritage Society can open on Sunday morning at 10.15 for anyone with special needs who would prefer to see the
Model Railway without being involved in a crowded situation. If you would like to avail of this please email dundalkrailwayhs@gmail.com so that they can be aware of numbers of people.
Time to ban Hexahydrocannabinol in vapes states McGreehan
FIANNA Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan has expressed her encouragement of the plans to ban Hexahydrocannabinol in vapes.
She has long advocated for a ban Hexahydrocannabinol in vapes and has welcomed news from her colleague Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor that this is imminent.
McGreehan has said this is a significant step forward to protecting young people stating “I’m encouraged to hear that the ban of HCC is to be achieved before the summer. The sooner the better”.
She added: “The prioritisation of this piece of legislation will have massive benefits not just for our young people, but for overall public health. Vapes are very harmful substances for young people, we have seen the evidence.
“We know it can affect brain development in teenagers, have cardiovascular effects, and can cause damage to lungs,” she said.
Deputy McGreehans joins a host of members across Government who are very keen to see this legislation introduced, something McGreehan has said she will work on with them.
She concluded: “I have advocated extremely hard on this and engaged with relevant stakeholders on it. I will continue to work with my party colleagues and colleagues across Government to ensure this legislation is passed before the summer recess.
Hospital accused of discrimination
From Page 1
A local GP confirmed to the Dundalk Leader that this decison was made without prior discussion or warning.
The GP also stated that the lab have now out sourced GP histology (skin and tissue processing) samples to a private lab. However, this will only be available to patients who have a medical card.
“In early 2025 all GPs in the region of the Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda received a memo signed by a consultant pathologist and the laboratory manager advising that skin and tissue samples from GPs would no longer be analysed and reported. There was no prior discussion or warning and there was no valid reason offered for this decision; The lab have now out sourced GP histology (skin and tissue processing) samples to a private lab. However, this will only be available to patients who have a full GMS (general medical services) card or a doctor visit card.
“This is a bad precedent because it negatively discriminates against patients who do not have either and unfortunately a lot of the working poor are just above the cut-off income for such a card.
“Furthermore it is odd because all patients in Ireland are entitled to treatment in a public hospital whether they have these cards or not so the Lourdes Hospital have now in-
troduced a level of discrimination against these patients that does not exist anywhere else in the country.
“That unilateral decision ended the possibility of a GP in this area taking a biopsy from a suspicious skin lesion, or removing (and curing) a cancer such as a basal cell cancer or a squamous cell cancer – the two most common skin cancers in Ireland, both of which can, and should be managed by General Practitioners who have expertise in minor surgery.
“Not all GPs have this service or skillset, yet the small number of GPs in the region who do offer it take referrals from other GPs and this has been proven to speed up skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. In Australia, the country with the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, most skin cancers are treated by GPs and not in hospital. This is more convenient for the patients, it is cheaper, and it takes the burden off hospital clinics and operating theaters.
“The Irish Cancer Society have highlighted that skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland with over 11000 new cases annually and this number is set to double by 2040.
“At a time when the HSE is actively moving more and more care to the community GP practices (Diabetes, Heart failure, other chronic diseases)
Decision not to accept biopsy samples from GPs will cost non medical card holders money as well as creating a barrier to timely diagnosis states local councillor
it is very disappointing that this bad decision takes treatable skin cancers out of the GP practice in this region and makes these patients join the 22 month waiting list for nonmelanoma skin cancer in the Lourdes Hospital.
“It is worth noting that patients in the Navan hospital region continue to receive this service from their GPs with Navan hospital continuing to process these laboratory samples,” stated the GP.
Fianna Fáil councillor Shane McGuinness said he will be raising this issue at the North East HSE Forum, which he is a member of, later this month.
“I really think this is a mind boggling decision made by the lab at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda and I will be raising it at the end of the month at the North East HSE meeting. A number of GP,s have met with me outlining their concern over this decision to unilaterally withdraw access to histopathology
services from GPs.
“This was brought in during February this year and it means all non medical card holder patients requiring biopsy, or excision for benign or malignant lesions need to be referred to secondary care. The reason being that the hospital cites lab capacity issues.
“I am writing to the HSE to raise this serious concern regarding these changes in how skin biopsies are managed for non-medical cards holder patients attending GP practices in our area.
“Previously, qualified doctors in local GP practices in Louth were able to handle minor skin issues and send biopsy samples to Drogheda Hospital and specifically Histopathology services section for analysis. This system worked effectively, especially for early detection of serious conditions such as skin cancer.
“Drogheda Hospital is no longer accepting biopsy samples from GP practices unless the patient holds a medical card. As a result, individuals who are hardworking and do not have a medical card are being forced to travel to Dublin to visit consultants, losing a day of work and often paying €300 or more for the procedure plus costs. And this just isn’t hitting people locally. It covers a huge area and will effect people from Carlingford right the way down to Balbriggan. This is yet another
squeeze being put upon the working class man or woman and it’s not right. Why should people with medical cards and immigrants coming into our country get this service for free while at the same time it will cost those who are working and not eligible for a medical card time and money?,” asked the Fianna Fail councillor for Dundalk South.
“This is not only a financial burden, but it also creates a serious barrier to timely diagnosis. Many working people may delay or avoid testing due to cost and time, increasing the risk that a treatable skin issue progresses to a serious, costly condition like skin cancer. In the long term, this will place a much greater burden on the health system — both in terms of cost and patient outcomes.
“This is a clear example of a short-term administrative decision leading to longterm consequences. I urge the HSE to reconsider the current policy and reinstate biopsy processing from GP practices at Drogheda Hospital for all patients, regardless of medical card status. Early intervention at the local level is always more cost-effective and humane than delayed, expensive treatment later,” stated McGuinness.
Dundalk Leader contacted the HSE to comment on this issue but at the time of going to press no response had been received.
An example of the work undertaken by the Model Railway Society of Ireland which will be exhibited this weekend.
SUMMER BEDDING PROMOTION
Dealgan House families ‘not impressed’ with the government’s approach to the Covid 19 inquiry
IT is ‘not fine’ for the government to be purely a commentator in the Covid 19 review, particularly when there are families in Dealgan House in Dundalk who still don’t know what happened to their loved ones, five years on, Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú has told the Dáil.
The Sinn Féin TD was speaking during a debate about nursing homes, prompted by the recent Prime Time Investigates programme. The Dundalk deputy said it was ‘hard to believe we are back here again’ discussing nursing homes, 20 years after the Leas Cross scandal, which led to the establishment of HIQA.
He said HIQA needs more powers, particularly for unannounced visits to homes.
He said: “We cannot be utterly reliant on Prime Time to safeguard our older people. We have huge levels of failings.
“Everyone has said we have an issue with privatisation, accepting that there are good private and public nursing homes. We need to make sure all of them are good.
“The Government has walked
away from the public system.
In everything this Government touches, there is an overreliance on the private sector. In the nursing home sector, 81% of homes are private and 19% are public. Without safeguards, there are huge questions to answer”.
And he said that families of those whose loved ones died during a devastating outbreak at Dealgan House nursing home in April and May 2020, are ‘not im-
pressed; with the government’s approach to the Covid 19 inquiry.
He said: “I do not even know what the term is because it is hardly an inquiry. It is a review of the period of Covid-19. We need some sort of compellability.
“We have heard the Taoiseach and many others speak about what they do not want to see in relation to commissions of inquiry or commissions of investigation. That is fine but it is not fine to be a commentator. The Government has the power to decide what type of inquiry can be initiated, with whatever checks and balances are required. That is what we need.
“We really have to get real about delivering a home first policy to facilitate those in their own home to be helped by their families. This will require a statutory support scheme that is up to scratch. We need to see the adult safeguarding legislation delivered. This has been necessary for a long time and has been spoken about for far too long in this House. We need to make sure all those necessary pieces are put in place”.
The Garden Room in “Bethany” House of Prayer
‘ THE Garden Room’ is located at the rear of “Bethany” on 34 Point Road, Dundalk, A91 WOC9, where two Sisters of Mercy, Sr. Briege Murphy and Sr. Jean Kelly reside. ‘The Garden Room’ was blessed and formally opened by Bishop Gerard Clifford almost twenty years ago in September 2005. The room is open to all and offers an opportunity to spend a quiet time in silent Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
According to the Sisters, “The Garden Room’ is a place of peace, beauty and tranquillity, situated at the end of the garden, open daily, Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 5pm. It is accessible to all.
In this busy and noisy world, all are welcome to spend as much time as they can, to be still, to listen, and pray before the Blessed Sacrament. People find it is a real blessing to come, be present, and receive a deep inner peace, comfort, healing and hope.
Over the years, people of all ages spend some time in the ‘Garden Room’ or drop in while out walking, or on their lunchbreak, others come by car, from town and various places”.
On the walls inside the ‘Garden Room’ is a plaque that reads the following:“Let us be silent, that we may hear the whisper of God”. There is a book where one can request, or give thanks, for prayers offered. If you have not already visited the ‘Garden Room’, you are most welcome.
Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.
Sister Jean and Sister Briege.
Inside the Garden Room at Bethany House on the Point Road.
Remembering Fr McMahon: a life of service and sacrifice
By John Dekhane
ONE
Dundalk lies the final resting place of a remarkable young Irish priest who gave his life
in the service of others during the Second World War. Buried in the churchyard of the Église Saint-Martin in the village of Ussy, Normandy, his grave is marked by a simple headstone: “Chaplain to the Forces, The Rev. P. J. McMahon, Royal Army Chaplains Dept, 14th August 1944.” Though far from home, he is remembered with enduring admiration for the courage, compassion, and faith that defined his brief but impactful life.
Patrick Joseph Mc
Mahon, known as Paddy, was born on 14 December 1916, in Dundalk. Orphaned at a young age after the loss of his parents, Owen McMahon and Elizabeth Comiskey, he was raised by his uncle, James McMahon. He received his early education at the Friary School and Christian Brothers School in Dundalk, before pursuing his secondary studies at St. Macartan’s College in Monaghan. The president of St. Macartan’s described him as “straightforward, truth-
ful, and obedient,” qualities that marked him as an exemplary candidate for the priesthood.
After completing his secondary education, Paddy McMahon chose to join the Society of St. Columban, a Roman Catholic missionary society founded in Ireland in 1916, with the intention of serving as a missionary priest in China. However, following his ordination on 21 December 1940, wartime travel restrictions and global conflict prevented him from taking up his mission. Instead, he answered a call to serve God on the battlefields and joined the Royal Army Chaplains Department—one of twenty Columban priests to serve in the armed forces during the war.
On 25th November, 1943, Father McMahon was assigned to the 9th Royal Tank Regiment, part of Headquarters, 31st Tank Brigade. He quickly became a beloved presence among the men, not only offering spiritual guidance but also sharing in their daily routines—helping to cook meals, playing football, and offering a steady presence through the uncertainty of war. Day after day, he was always there to support his comrades, regardless of their background or belief.
The 31st Tank Brigade embarked for Normandy on 18 June 1944. After several engagements, they took part in the Battle of the Falaise Pocket, where Canadian, Polish, British, and American forces encircled the retreating German army.
On 14 August 1944, during fierce fighting, Father McMahon ignored his own safety and, under
heavy enemy fire, went out in an ambulance to rescue a wounded Canadian soldier. On the way back, the ambulance was struck by a German shell, killing him instantly. He was only 27 years old, with so much life ahead and so much to give.
A poignant letter written by Private T. H. Craig, a Protestant soldier from Northern Ireland, addressed to his wife, offers a moving testimony of how deeply Father McMahon was loved by those he served alongside:
“The Rev. Father McMahon was killed at a place in France called Quesnay and he is buried about four mile (sic) from Falaise in a Catholic graveyard; he was buried by this unit. He was killed when his vehicle was hit by a German 88 mm shell. He was going out to help a
wounded Canadian soldier. He died with his crucifix in one hand and his prayer book in the other with his head resting on both as he must have been praying when he died. The Rev. Father McMahon was the life of this Battalion as he had a word for everyone it didn’t matter what his Religion and I can safely say he was one of the bravest men I have ever met. He didn’t know what danger was and everyone was sorry when he died. Everybody lost a friend when they lost Father McMahon. I had the pleasure to soldier with him when he was with the Irish Fusiliers in Ireland, and when I was transferred to this unit he was one of the first that I met. So I feel quite justified in what I say about him. He was one of my best friends although we were of different religions.”
Father McMahon now rests in peace in the churchyard of the Église Saint-Martin in Ussy, Normandy. He is the sole Commonwealth serviceman buried in that churchyard and is remembered with great respect by the local community. His sacrifice is also honoured far from France, with a plaque dedicated to his memory at the Columban Martyrs Memorial Garden in Bellevue, Nebraska, United States, and a memorial in Navan, County Meath, Ireland, at the Missionary Society of Saint Columban Cemetery. As we approach the 81st anniversary of his death, it is our solemn duty to keep Father McMahon’s memory alive, to honour his legacy, and to ensure that the town of Dundalk never forgets one of its bravest and most selfless sons.
thousand kilometres from the town of
A picture of his grave in the churchyard of the Église Saint-Martin in Ussy, Normandy. (Courtesy of the British Normandy Memorial).
Father Patrick McMahon. (Courtesy of Maureen Bruen).
A picture of the memorial plaque dedicated to him at the Columban Martyrs Memorial Garden in Bellevue, Nebraska, United States. (Courtesy of Gregory Seery).
Former Senator, John McGahon, announced as new CEO of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce
DUNDALK Chamber of Commerce have announced that former Fine Gael senator and general election candidate John McGahon has been named as their new CEO. The Chamber pointed to McGahon’s extensive experi-
ence in public service as well as his ability to represent and advocate for local businesses as qualities which made him the perfect fit for the role.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of John McGahon
as our new CEO. John McGahon’s extensive experience in public service has equipped him with strong policy expertise and combined with his skills in strategic planning and public engagement, demonstrate his ability to rep-
resent and advocate for local business and community interests effectively. He has a deep understanding of government processes, making him well-prepared to lead Dundalk Chamber as CEO.
“With his strong
leadership and commitment to advancing business in Dundalk, John is set to drive growth and opportunities for our 250+ members and the wider community.
‘I am really delighted to take up the role of CEO of Dundalk
Chamber of Commerce. Dundalk has a proud business tradition, rooted in innovation, community spirit, and cross-border cooperation. I look forward to building on that legacy; supporting our local enterprises, attracting new investment, and strengthening the voice of business across the region,’ says John about his appointment. ‘It is a great opportunity to work alongside Hanna McDonnell, President of Dundalk Chamber, and the wider Chamber team to build on their success. Together, we can drive sustainable growth and ensure Dundalk continues to thrive as a dynamic hub for business,’ he continues.
Hanna McDonnell, President of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce shares John’s excitement, saying: ‘John’s experience and strategic vision will be invaluable in advancing the Chamber’s mission and positioning Dundalk as a hub for business excellence.”
“The Board and entire team at Dundalk Chamber are excited to collaborate with John as he leads the Chamber’s initiatives to foster economic growth, innovation, and a thriving business community in Dundalk,” concluded the statement.
John McGahon is the new CEO of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce.
LOUTH’S GREEN FLAG PARKS
All five of the local authority run parks received a prestigious Green Flag last November
AN Taisce’s Green Flag Award acknowledges excellence in the management of those green spaces which are freely open to the public. The Green Flag Award is the international quality benchmark for the public green space sector - now operating in 19 countries around the world. Running for over 25 years, the programme uses eight key criteria, with an emphasis on environmental management, for its assessment. All sites implement a management framework, and then undergo an annual inspection conducted by qualified judges.
Last year for the first time ever Louth County Council received Green Flags for all five of their local authority managed parks with Aisling Park receiving the award for the first time. That park joined the distinguished list of Blackrock Community Park (Blackrock), Ice House Hill Park (Dundalk), St Helena’s Park (Dundalk) and St Dominics Park (Drogheda) to make it a clean sweep for parks managed by Louth County Council.
According to Emlyn Cullen – Programme Manager for An Taisce Environmental Education Unit, running the Award in Ireland, all parks in Louth passed the award threshold comfortably last year and with this year’s grading currently taking place he also revealed that Blackrock Community Park had already been judged for the 2025 award. He described Blackrock Community Park as the ‘gold standard’ for community run parks.
“The continued success of the Green Flag Award is due to the love staff members have for their green spaces and the hard work they put in to maintaining them. They do a phenomenal job every day making their parks and gardens beautiful, safe spaces for the public to enjoy,” stated Emlyn.
“The following 5 parks hold the Green Flag for Parks Award for this year (2024/25 season) and all 5 are also in the process of being judged for next year (2025/26)
1. Blackrock Community Park;
2. St Helena Park;
3. Saint Dominic’s Park;
4. Ice House Hill Park;
5. Aisling Park.
“The Award isn’t ranked per se, its either a pass or a fail but they are graded internally. All Louth’s sites passed the award threshold comfortably last year. The only site that has been judged for the 2025/26 season so far is Blackrock Community Park. This site can be considered a gold standard for community run parks, providing an outstanding amenity for locals and visitors alike. Below is a comment from the judge’s feedback form summary:
‘An excellent example of what can be achieved when a local community are facilitated to contribute to the development and maintenance of a local
park. There is an opportunity to replace some of the existing planting with a native species. The Blackrock Park is entirely worthy of the Green Flag,” concluded Emlyn.
Ther are eight key criteria used when assessing if a park is worthy of a Green Flag and they include:
1—A WELCOMING PLACE
This section recognises the culmination of everything done well. A welcoming place is one that invites and draws people into it. This means creating a space which, through its visual appearance, range of facilities, standards of maintenance and ease of access, makes people feel that they are in a cared-for place.
2—HEALTHY SAFE AND SECURE
This section looks at how well managers understand their users’ needs, encouraging them to enjoy healthy activities using appropriate, safe-touse facilities and activities, and to feel personally safe and secure.
3—WELL MAINTAINED AND CLEAN
For aesthetic as well as health and safety reasons, issues of cleanliness and maintenance must be addressed, in particular:
+ litter and other waste management issues must be adequately dealt with;
+ grounds, buildings, equipment and other features must be well maintained;
+ policies on litter, vandalism and maintenance should be in place, in practice, and regularly reviewed.
4—ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
This section seeks to ensure that the way the site is managed has a positive impact on the environment, locally and globally, both now and for the future. Where choices can be made for future procurement, landscaping or buildings, they should aim to minimise energy and resource consumption and waste, and design in benefits to the local and global environment.
Policies should seek to eliminate the use of peat and chemicals to control pests and as fertilisers. Horticultural and arboricultural decisions should reflect an understanding of the impacts of climate change.
5—BIODIVERSITY, LANDSCAPE AND HERITAGE
Attention should be paid to the appropriate management and conservation of natural features, wildlife and flora; landscape features; and buildings and structures. Their particular character and requirements should be identified and appropriate management strategies put in place to conserve and enhance them.
6—COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
This section examines the extent to which the managing organisation:
+ understands the community it seeks to serve;
+ actively and appropriately involves members of the community in making decisions about the site’s development;
+ provides opportunities for active participation in site projects; and + ensures that there is appropriate provision of recreational facilities and activities for all sectors of the community.
7—MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION
This section seeks to examine the ways that managers understand the key benefits of the site and how they use this information to promote it appropriately. They should understand who the main user groups are, could be or should be, and use a fitting range of interpretation and engagement techniques to communicate with them. This basis ensures that appropriate facilities, events and activities can be offered and most effectively promoted, and forms a solid foundation for development now and in the future.
8—MANAGEMENT
This section evaluates how well the management plan is implemented on site.
MORE GREEN SPACE FOR HAGGARDSTOWN AN URGENT PRIORITY STATES McGUINNESS
THE explosion of houses and population in Haggardstown means the need for a park in the area has never been greater. Fianna Fáil councillor Shane McGuinness has bemoaned the lack of green space in Haggardstown for a number of years now and in particular he has hit out at local planners who have allowed housing estates such as Wadman Park in Haggardstown to be built without a green space or open area for kids to play on.
The Fianna Fáil councillor has previously targeted designated zoned land in Haggards-
town west of Wadman park along the Western Relief road, to be used for a large education campus with secondary school, playing fields for all sports, and facilities possibly an outdoor swimming pool.
“As a representative for Dundalk South I have made the issue of more green spaces for Haggardstown an absolute priority and with the population explosion in that area in recent years we need to do something for the people there quickly. It’s shocking to me that an estate like Wadman Park which was built just five
years ago and has the guts of 100 kids living there was allowed to be built with no outdoor green area or recreation area for kids.
“Kids aren’t able to even play a game of football on grass because there is nowhere to play in the area. We have Blackrock Park which is a magnificent park and a credit to Louth County Council and all who maintain it but that is overused as it is and we are in desperate need of another green space in Haggardstown. On our best day we won’t have anything ready for at least two or
three years but we have to get the wheels in motion as quickly as possible,” urged Cllr McGuinness.
“We know from various studies and reports that a lack of green spaces and recreation areas for kids lead to serious anti social behaviour as well as obesity and mental health problems. This is going to end up costing the state more money in the long run fixing these problems which are coming down the line so it’s a complete no brainer to ensure we have adequate green spaces for our children,” he added.
Elias’s love of wildlife and parklands was fostered during
his
formative years in
TANZANIA in East Africa is home to the Serengeti National Park. Covering almost 15,000 square kilometres it is one of the largest parks in the world. Indeed, National Parks are a feature of the East African country with 21 other national parks dotted all around the land which is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa.
Elias Mlimbila’s love of wildlife and parklands was fostered during his formative years in his homeland of Tanzania. He grew up in a rural area of Tanzania with his four siblings and as a child he helped out his grandad by working on his coffee farm. According to Elias, who is the Parks and Landscape officer for Louth County Council, he always knew he wanted to work in the area of nature and the outdoors and that journey began in Tanzania when he started working with local farmers and helping them to become more sustainable.
“I was working in agri-forest projects in Tanzania, helping farmers to become more sustainable. My main role was to try and integrate trees into farmland, producing trees from nurseries which would offer the farmer a pathway to more sustainable agricultural practices. That project also took me to more urban areas of Tanzania where we planted more trees in places was a shortage of trees. The aim was to enhance biodiversity and make farms more resilient and environmentally friendly.
“I really enjoyed that work and did it for almost a decade but after studying horticulture in England I moved to Ireland in 2000 when I was 28 years old. I just wanted to try something new and when I got to Ireland I moved to Meath where I still live today with my wife and fifteen year old son. I did a few different jobs around the Meath area until 2010 when I joined Louth County Council. I was working as part of Dundalk Town Council in the parks section at the time.
“It was my first job working with a local authority so it was a bit different and took a while to get used to if I’m honest.
his
homeland of Tanzania
It was a different method of delivering the work in the sense that it takes a bit longer to do things due to regulations etc which I probably wasn’t used to in previous jobs. The people were very welcoming and I loved being out and about and going around the different parks around the County assessing where improvements could be made.
“My role has changed a bit now in the sense that when I started I was just looking after Dundalk whereas now I am in charge of looking after the whole County which takes in Dundalk and Drogheda, two of the biggest towns in Ireland. The volume of work has obviously increased for me with the growth in Co. Louth both population wise and geographically now that I look after Drogheda as well.
There are probably 17 people including seasonal workers in the parks section and they are all great to work with. We are a very busy team and it makes me proud to see all the great work we have done in earning Green Flags for five of our parks and even just walking through St Helena’s Park and seeing so many children laughing and enjoying themselves in the recently refurbished
playground.
“I think Covid was actually a very interesting time and showed us the importance of public parks and open spaces. We were one of the only sections in Louth County Council that remained opened during the worst of Covid and there was a huge increase in public space usage. Lots of people began to appreciate more the wonderful public spaces we have such as parks etc. There were a few challenges during that period for us including a huge increase of litter due to the much higher volumes of people visiting our parks during that time.
“But I have to say I really enjoyed my time working during Covid and it was a source of pride to all of our team to see so many people enjoy and appreciate our parks. Even for people’s mental health it was very important that people were able to get out of the house and just walk in a nice park.
No two days look the same in this job and that’s what I love about working here in Louth County Council. Dundalk and Drogheda are the two biggest towns in Ireland so as you can imagine we have plenty of issues to deal with be
that reports of vandalism or complaints from members of the public. We get reports of trees falling, especially during storms, which we have to respond to and we are also managing the Greenways in Carlingford, Omeath and Drogheda as well as the walking trail on the Cooley mountains so we have to ensure they are all maintained to the highest standards.
“Thankfully there isn’t a whole lot of issues with the Greenways with regards to vandalism or repairs. They are fairly low maintenance compared to parks. One of the biggest issues we are faced with is the ongoing problems with illegal dumping. Even over the last week we have received a report of a huge amount of domestic waste which was dumped in Aisling Park which is very disappointing and frustrating to see. We spend so much time, money and resources cleaning up after these cases of illegal dumping when we could be using the time to improve the parks to an even higher standard than they are already.
“We would like to see more cameras and hopefully that will come to fruition in the near future. I know there were issues with GDPR previously but I think that has been sorted out now so we should start seeing more cameras installed to catch these illegal dumpers in the act or better still deter them from doing it in the first place. Vandalism is also a problem and we seen that recently when we refurbished the playground in St Helena Park and just before we were about to reopen it to the public somebody got in and covered the place with graffiti which again cost us a lot of money to fix. Again it is very frustrating but we have to accept that there are a few bad apples everywhere and this is a part of life.
“It’s a massive operation for our team and this time of the year especially we are very busy. Between us all we take care of grass cutting, playground repairs, playground inspection, pruning trees and litter picking. We try and
mow our grass areas on ten-12 day cycles with a ride on lawnmower. We do use contractors to supplement the work and we would probably cut about seven hectares of grass every ten days throughout the summer.
“We normally plant bulbs in the autumn time using a machine and last year we planted roughly 50,000 bulbs. The machine we use makes it much more straightforward to plant and much quicker than the old way when we used spades and did it manually.
“We do tree inspections every four or five year and we keep the record of it. The general rule of thumb is we don’t remove trees unless there is a serious defect in the tree. Trees are very important for our environment and we try not to prune them as when you cut the branches of a tree you kind of create a wound and you increase the chance of disease in the tree.
“Biodiversity is a big thing now within our department and we now have two biodiversity officers and they are currently in the process of publishing biodiversity policies for Louth County Council. Biodiversity and Climate Change are very important to us and we have registered for the All Ireland pollination plan so we are now part of that group. The idea is to increase our biodiversity areas and ecosystems to try and improve things for our local habitat.
“I can see the benefit of doing this and I like to use the phrase ‘getting more for less’ and what I mean by that is for example leaving the grass to grow a bit longer so you reduce the cost of cutting but you are getting much bigger benefits for the insects and wildlife.
“We all love what we do here in our section and we love to see people enjoy our public parks. We would ask members of the public to respect and look after our parks and to reduce dumping incidents. We all have to live in this community together and lets have some pride in the areas we are living in,” concluded Elias.
Elias Mlimbila-Parks and Landscape Officer for Louth County Council.
Cllr Shane McGuinness.
FAMILY NOTICES
IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM
BRABAZON
Eileen 9th ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of Eileen Brabazon late of Grange Close, Muirhevnamor, whose 9th anniversary occurs today, Wednesday, 9th July, 2025.
We lost a mother with a heart of gold,
How much we miss her can never be told, She shared our troubles and helped us along,
If we follow her footsteps, we will never go wrong.
We miss you from your fireside chair, Your loving smile and gentle air,
Your vacant place no one will ever fill, We miss you mother and always will.
She was a mother so very rare,
Content in her home and always there, On earth she toiled, in Heaven she rests, God bless you mother, You were one of the best. Each time we look at your picture, You seem to smile and say, Don’t be sad but courage take, And love each other for my own sake.
—Always remembered and sadly missed by your loving husband Christopher; daughters Marion and Charlene; sons Christopher and Martin; sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 10am today, at Holy Family, Muirhevnamor.
LARKIN Brian
1st ANNIVERSARY Husband
In loving memory of my dear husband Brian, whose 1st anniversary occurs on 13th July.
The special years will not return, when we were together,
Built with the love within our hearts,
You will walk with me forever.
—Sadly missed by your loving wife Teresa and your son Paul.
Dad
365 days since you left me, 365 days I have cried, 365 days with a broken heart, I carry your voice in my head every day,
You took half my heart that will never heal.
All my love Dad.
—Sadly missed always by your loving daughter Teresa Grandad
How could we ever forget a Grandad, Who gave us so much love to remember.
—From Leah and Oisin and son-in-law David
Anniversary Mass will be held in the Holy Family Church on Saturday, 12th July, at 7pm
McENTEGGART
Darren 25th ANNIVERSARY & 50th
BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE
In loving memory of my son Darren, late of Cresent 1, Muirhevnamor. Will those who think of him today,
A little prayer to Jesus say. —Your loving Mam, Myra.
IN MEMORIAM
MURDEN
Elizabeth
10th ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of Elizabeth Murden, who died 15th August, 2015.
Mother
I remember the day I met you, The day God made you mine, I remember the day I lost you, And will ’til the end of time. I lost my life companion, A life linked with my own, Day and night, I think of you, As I walk through life alone. The house you left is lonely now, And I am lonely too, As my heart still longs for you, I could not have asked for a better Mother.
—Miss you always. Your daughter Vera and greatgrandchildren Conor and Rachel.
BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE
CASSIDY
Tracy
We would love to celebrate a special birthday just for you, We miss you more than anyone knows, As time goes by the emptiness grows. We laugh, we talk we play our part, But behind the smile lies a broken heart.
—Always in our thoughts. Loved and missed Mam, Dad, brother Liam and sister Geraldine.
Aunty
For a special aunty who cannot be here to open presents we would buy for you, So just for you we’ll send our love and kisses to the special place God took you to. —Love from all your nieces and nephews.
ARTICLES FOR SALE SPECIAL SERVICES PLANNING
SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader. NEW ELECTRIC BIKE for sale, very reasonable (with receipt), first to see will buy Tel 089 2497902.
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.
DOUBLE BEDROOM self-contained apartment to let, fully furnished, ensuite, kitchen/sittingroom, TV, washing machine, etc Crossmaglen (10 minutes drive from Dundalk) Tel 0044 746 9259 125.
CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Also gutter 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.
WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand 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, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.
CARPENTRY & JOINERY—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.
MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.
CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.
TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden. I do it all. Grass cutting, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Strimming, Power washing, Gutter Cleaning, Fence Painting, General DIY, Flat Pack Assembly, Removals. Contact Catriona 087 3172109.
ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.
FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.305.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.
MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728.
PLUMBER AVAILABLE—Bathroom renovations, Oil Boiler fitting and servicing, Attic Tanks and cylinder replacements. Can also install inside and outside taps etc etc. No
Job too small. Contact Paul on 086 8897989.
PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—Interior and exterior plus Wallpapering, also sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men. Tel Brian 087 7558506.
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.
DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES—Hedge, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower strimming weeding beds, weedkilling, moss removal, control demolition, removal of old sheds fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. Free quote 0877019178.
PSYCHOTHERAPY IN DUNDALK— Struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or just need to talk? Call Kristine at 0830230066. Sessions from €40–€60.
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.
DIGGER HIRE—1.5-3.5 tonne digger and driver for hire. Dundalk and surrounding areas. Can cover gardens, drainage, driveways, clearance etc. Please call Joe 086 0663223.
WOULD YOU LIKE your portrait drawn? Please call 085 2464447.
PAINTING AND DECORATING—No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.
GOT AN ONLINE BUSINESS? Need some help scaling it? Spending too much on ads? Let me help you out. Just txt (085) 8124642 and I’ll call you back.
SEEKING OLD FURNITURE—New York company looking for old country furniture, Old Kitchen dressers, Old presses, Old chest of drawers, Old kitchen tables, Old Enamel signs, Old Creamery cans, Old Shop counters. Contents of houses. Must be old. No Time Wasters. Contact Roger 085 1481222.
GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.
DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.
SEWING CLASSES for Adults. September 6th until October 25th at Muirhevnamor Community Centre. For more details call Blathnaid on 086 0312003.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Patrick McDonnell, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at 51 O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 A0EC. The development will consist of—Retention of—1. Front porch extension 2.Rear single storey extension, 3. Alterations to the original roof and also a new pitched roof over an original single storey extension to include for first floor storage and playroom areas, associated dormer windows and rooflights 4. A domestic garage 5. and associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed—AMC Loss Assessors & Surveyors, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. 0879529699. E-mail aidan@amcla.ie.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Finnian O’Neill, intend to apply to Louth County Council for Planning Retention for a single storey extension to the front and two storey extension to the rear of dwelling at Sal’s Pad, Ballyoonan, Omeath, Co. Louth, A91 X673. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Further Information / Revised Plans. Dundalk Men’s Shed have submitted to the planning authority significant further information / revised plans in relation to planning ref no 24140 for Permission for new “Community” workshop and associated facilities at Hoey’s Lane, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The significant further information in relation to the application has been furnished to the planning authority, and is or are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the authority during its public opening hours, and a submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, not later than two weeks after receipt of this newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.
UKRANIAN LADY seeking work in Dundalk area. Has plenty of experience In Waitressing, Cleaning, Caring. Also available for dog walking. Please contact. 087 2435690.
Eagles soar on night three of Northend Bar Summer Series of Darts
SERIES 3 of the Northend Bar Summer Series
Of Darts showed no let up with the quality of darts thrown.
Playing for the Cairnes Brewery Cup, which was first played for in 1954, it has for a number of years been played as a 3-a-side competition with all funds going to St. Olivers Old Folks.
51 players entered the competition on the night, with numbers on the increase each week, that’s nearly 60 players competing across 3 events so far.
To the forefront on the night was Dylan Quinn who hit a number of 180’s to help get his team, D.P.D (Dylan, Peter Grennan @ Dully) get to the Final.
Two coaches from Dundalk Youth Darts (Aidan Thompson and Cara O’Shaughnessy) along with youth player
Colin Taaffe (Grumpy Granda and the Kids) secured a narrow 2-1 over Grumpy Old Boys (Kieran mc crave, Joe Davidson & David Gonnelly) with Cara hitting Tops to secure the win to great celebrations.
The Cavan Men (Michael Gillick, Sean Maguire & Conor Car-
roll) having progressed after a hard-fought win in the preliminary round would be knocked out in the next Round by DPD who would then progress to beat Smashers (Cian Roddy, Hughie Shields & James Callan) in the board final.
Coming under the radar were the Craicheads
team of Conor Stephenson, Ryan King and Robbie Murphy who after beating Frankie Agents (Frankie Quigley, Brian Mc Ardle & Stephen B) then caused a bit of an upset in beating Pick One (Daniel Dunn, Ray Harte & Calum McCrave) in the board final before being eliminated by D.P.D. in
New walking map of Dundalk launched
Dundalk Tidy Towns Committee and Paula Gribben, Louth County Council.
DUNDALK Tidy Towns have just launched a new self guided tour of Dundalk in a project that was funded by Louth County Council.
“Dundalk Tidy Towns is delighted to launch a new self guided tour of Dundalk following our Historic Dundalk Trail signs around the town. The colourful new map in-
cludes all of the historical landmarks in the town and QR codes on the map and signs which when scanned provide more information from our website!
“A huge thanks to PH7 Design for producing this wonderful guide to our town for locals and visitors. This project was kindly funded by Louth
County Council through the Tidy Towns Projects Fund. Copies of the map are available at Dundalk Tourist Office and countymuseumdundalk and is available to download on our website www.dundalktidytowns.ie,” stated a committee member of Dundalk Tidy Towns.
final before being beaten 3-1 by the Eagles On A Budget in the Semi Final.
Eagles On A Budget (Simon Wykes, Conor McArdle and Martin Carvill) were going well & Conor McArdle was eyeing up a 3rd successive win in the Summer Series. They beat the Commercial Team (Niall Hinchey, John Rafferty & Ciaran Treanor) before beating Grumpy Granda and the Kids in the Board Final.
the Semi-finals.
The Hackers team of Marty Dixon, Conor Dunn & Stephen Shields were also hoping to go well and after seeing off C.A.C. (Johnny Knobloch, Aidan Minto & Jack Riordan), they then beat the Hawks team of Cian & Padraic O’Rourke and Mickey W) in the board
Eagles On A Budget would go on to beat D.P.D. 4-1 in the Final and help Conor McArdle to some more silverware from the Summer Series. Big thanks yet again to all out sponsors. And not forgetting Cian Roddy from Smashers for supplying the lovely grub last night.
1—In which city did the band Oasis, play their first gig for 16 years last Friday evening?
2—What does the Statue of Liberty hold in her right hand?
3—Which fruit is the only one to grow seeds on the outside?
4—What is the currency of India?
5—In August 1912 ‘The Picture Palace’ began screening silent films in Dundalk. Where was the ‘The Picture Palace’ located?
6—What was the nickname of the swimmer from Equatorial Guinea who took over 2 minutes to complete 100 metres freestyle in the Sydney Olympics 2000?
7—In the solar system,
what is the third planet from the sun called?
8—Robert Zimmerman is the real name of which famous person?
9—What connects the towns of Ballinrobe, Kilbeggan, Listowel, Gowran, Tramore and Bellewstown?
10—How many men have served as An Taoiseach during this century?
The Stinker—Fr Ted, Fr Dougal and Fr Hackett all lived on Craggy Island. On what island did their arch nemesis Fr Dick Byrne live?
—THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS—
1—Cardiff, 2—A torch, 3—Strawberries, 4— Rupee, 5—The Town Hall in Dundalk, 6—Eric the Eel, 7—Earth, 8—Bob Dylan, 9—They all have horse racing courses, 10—Six. Bertie Ahern, Brian Cowen, Enda Kenny, Leo Varadkar, Micheal Martin and Simon Harris. The Stinker: Rugged Island.
Sheila Meehan, Simon Wykes, Martin Carvill and Conor McArdle.
