DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Well-known solicitor dies after short illness Page 2
Siblings win international mental arithmetic Olympiad Page 6
Christopher wins silver for Ireland at Special Olympics Games Page 12
Wednesday, 9th September, 2026. Vol. 19, Issue 36 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888 | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com
MARATHON EFFORT FOR RELAY FOR LIFE By Paul Byrne THE countdown is well and truly on for the long awaited return of the Dundalk Relay for Life which will take place this Saturday and Sunday in Dundalk Stadium. The community is being invited to come along at 2pm on Saturday to the 24-hour event which is in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Well-known local runner Collette O’Hagan, is the Relay for Life Dundalk Ambassador and the Bay Estate native has been doing her bit to raise funds for the event by running a scarcely believable twenty marathons over the past month all over Europe. Her last one took place in Dingle last weekend (Collette’s 1113th marathon in total!) and she managed to raise the sum of €1,650 for Relay for Life Dundalk.
The funds raised at Relay For Life are essential to enable the Irish Cancer Society to provide free, vital support services to people affected by cancer across Ireland and to fuel ground-breaking cancer research. Relay For Life brings the local community together to celebrate cancer survivors and remember those who have been lost to cancer. Participants team up and take it in turns to walk through the day and night, with someone always on the move during the 24-hour period. A key feature of every Relay For Life is the survivors’ lap, where cancer survivors who have lived or are living with cancer are invited to open the event with a special celebratory lap of their local Relay Relay for Life Dundalk Ambassador Collette O’Hagan led by example by raising track. €1650 for the Irish Cancer Society by running a total of 20 marathons last month. Continued on Page 2
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Well-known solicitor dies after short illness
WELL-known Dundalk solicitor James MacGuill has died following a short illness at the age of 63. He graduated in law from University College Cork in 1983 and was admitted to the roll of solicitors in 1986. He subsequently gained a Diploma in Arbitration in 1991 and was appointed a Notary Public in 1996. He has been in private practice ever since as a litigator with an emphasis on public law, especially criminal law. His practice included domestic and international cases, both within and outside the European Union. He represented clients before all European Courts. Mr MacGuill was also actively involved in The Law Society of Ireland and chaired many of its committees including criminal law, human rights, professional indemnity insurance and finance. He served as President of the Law Society from 2007 to 2008. Speaking after the announcement of Mr MacGuill’s death, Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú said:
The late James MacGuill. “James was a brilliant and well-respected solicitor who understood the law at a molecular level, and used his incredible intelligence to push back on the State where he believed that there were infringements on the human rights of his clients. “He worked extremely hard, was always well-prepared and was as comfortable before the highest courts in the land as he was before the district court in Dundalk. The last time we spoke,
earlier this summer, he was in touch with me about the reform to the Legal Aid system and was a passionate advocate for his colleagues. “He will be greatly missed among the legal fraternity and the people he represented, particularly in Louth. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family, his friends and his colleagues. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis”. The Law Society commenting on Mr MacGuill’s
passing said: “The Law Society of Ireland is saddened by the death of solicitor, past president, and friend, James MacGuill SC. “Over a 40-year career, James was one of the country’s most prominent litigation solicitors, with a particular focus on public law and criminal defence law. He represented clients in landmark cases in both Ireland and Europe, including representing a defendant in Ireland’s first ever criminal
Marathon effort for Relay for Life
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From Page 1 A moving Candle of Hope ceremony is one of the main highlights of Relay For Life. Thousands of candle bags that have been personalised with messages of hope and remembrance illuminate the Relay track in celebration of cancer survivorship and to honour loved ones lost to cancer. The uplifting Relay For Life event also features entertainment and fun for all the family. The very first Relay for Life took place in America in 1986. It arrived in Ireland in 2009 when Dundalk hosted the event for the very first time in this country. The last time it was held in Dundalk was back in 2014 but several months ago a committee was formed with the intention of working towards a return this year for Relay for Life Dundalk. According to Relay for Life Ambassador Collette O’Hagan all the hard work is done now and the committee are looking forward to welcoming the people of Dundalk to Dundalk Stadium this weekend. “We’ve been working hard for the last seven or eight months and thankfully we have got great support from the people of Dundalk and we have already raised lots of money for the Irish Cancer Society. All our efforts will culminate in the Relay For Life event which takes place in Dundalk Stadium this Saturday and Sunday. Anybody who has been before knows that it really is a special event and we invite anybody who wants to take part or just watch to come
along this weekend. “We will have our opening ceremony first where our speakers will say a few words before the survivors set out on their lap. They will be wearing purple tshirts and we will celebrate them surviving cancer and they will act as beacons of hope for us all. Next up we will have the Carers Lap where we acknowledge and thank family and friends who stood strong and supported a cancer patient, a gentle reminder that cancer impacts not just the patient but the entire family and circle of friends. Around 10pm we will have the very poignant Candle of Hope ceremony. This is where we have everybody walking in silence while a local harpist plays. The route will be lined with candles
representing names of loved ones lost or candles of hope representing those who have survived or are still fighting the disease. It’s always the most emotional part of the 24 hours and for me it is very powerful. “We have plenty of teams registered for the event and the idea is that each team will complete 24 hours walking around the track. Ideally each group will have a good few people in it so that the walking can be spaced out and everybody can get a rest when needed. We will have food vendors and loads of entertainment including DJ Goosey, Mickey Joe Harte, Paddy Mac, Zumba, Line Dancing and much more. It will be a fantastic weekend and if anybody wants to come up and help us out they are more than welcome to volunteer. Also, everybody is more than welcome to come up and just enjoy the event if they don’t want to take part. To register a team just go to www.relayforlife.ie “As I said already, the local community have been fantastic to date and really got behind us and we hope they can give us one last big push this weekend when we can hopefully raise lots more money for the Irish Cancer Society,” stated Colleen. Relay For Life Dundalk begins this Saturday 12th September at 2pm in Dundalk Stadium (Racecourse Road A91 FFP3) and will finish 24 hours later on Sunday 13th September at 2pm. All welcome. Contact relayforlifedundalk@gmail.com if you have any questions.
prosecution for female genital mutilation. “His passion for criminal law and human rights law show the people-centred approach he applied to his work. James embodied the core of what it means to be a solicitor – to achieve the object of justice for any person who needs it. “The contribution James has made to the Law Society, the solicitors’ profession, and Irish law is immeasurable. His sound judgment, advice, and wit will be missed by colleagues. “James’s career and beliefs can be summed up in a quote from a Law Society Gazette interview when he was appointed President of the Law Society in 2007, ‘The greatest satisfaction for me in being a solicitor is where your client is the person against whom all the odds are stacked – but has justice on their side.’ “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. “Ní neart go cur le chéile.”
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
BILLY DOYLE TO RETIRE AS CEO OF DUNDALK CREDIT UNION
DUNDALK Credit Union has announced that Chief Executive Billy Doyle will retire at the end of 2026 after 18 years leading the credit union. He will step down following the Annual General Meeting in December. Billy has led Dundalk Credit Union through a period of significant change and growth. During his time as Chief Executive, the credit union has expanded into communities across Louth and Monaghan and grown to become one of Ireland’s largest community credit unions. It has established a brand position and reputation nationally and internationally as a leading advocate of a broadened and re-imagined purpose for credit unions that sees co-creating a new local model of community and sustainability sitting side by side with the co-operative financial self-help ethos of the traditional credit union framework. While much has changed at Dundalk Credit Union over those 18 years – including the size of the credit union, its geographical spread and membership, its evolving community platform and the range of financial services available to members – the credit union remains firmly rooted in the communities it serves, with personal service and a strong focus on meeting the needs of ordinary people continuing to be central to how it operates. Paying tribute to Billy, Chairperson Jim Wallace said: “Billy told the Board of his plans
Billy Doyle, CEO, Stephen Fealy CEO Designate and Jim Wallace Chair. some time ago, which has allowed us to plan properly for the future. He has led this credit union through eighteen years of real change in our sector and leaves it in the strongest position in its history. Just as important as what Billy has achieved is the way he has gone about it. He has always been generous with his time and his expertise, supportive of the people around him and focused on doing what is right for our members, our staff and the various Boards he has worked with. On behalf of the Board, our staff, our members and the wider North East community, I want to thank Billy sincerely for everything he
has given to Dundalk Credit Union.” Commenting on his upcoming retirement Billy Doyle said: “It has been a privilege. I came here in 2008, and I’ve never had a day where I wondered whether the job mattered. That’s down to the staff, who are as good as you’ll find anywhere, to the Boards who supported me, and above all to our members. I’ll miss it, but it’s the right time for me to start a new chapter, and the right time for the credit union to start one too.” The Board has appointed Stephen Fealy as the credit union’s next Chief Executive. Stephen has over 15 years senior management
experience across the credit union sector including being CFO of Dundalk Credit Union since 2018. A native of Dundalk, Stephen is a Chartered Certified Accountant, and holds a range of academic qualifications, including an MBA. He will take up the role following the credit union’s AGM in December. Commenting on the appointment, Jim said: “Choosing a new Chief Executive is the most important and consequential decision a Board has to make. Stephen knows this credit union, understands our culture, our members and our communities, and has played an im-
portant role in our development over recent years. Stephen is highly qualified and experienced, and the Board are certain that he is the right person to lead the credit union into its next chapter.” Stephen said he was delighted to have the opportunity to lead the credit union: “I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work closely with Billy and have seen first-hand what he has built here. I’m looking forward to building on that work with our Board and our staff and, most importantly, continuing to deliver for our members and the wider North East community. We are a bigger credit union today than we were, and our services keep growing, but what we are here to do hasn’t changed. We are here to serve the people of Dundalk, Carrickmacross and the wider North East and to make a real impact in the communities we are part of.” Billy will continue as Chief Executive until his retirement in December, working with Stephen and the Board over the coming months to ensure a smooth handover. “I have had the privilege of working closely with Stephen over many years and I am absolutely delighted that he will be leading the credit union into its next phase of development. I know he has the judgement, the ability and the values to lead the credit union into the future,” Billy added.
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
First time drug offenders may avoid prosecution under new Health Referral Scheme (HSR) AN Garda Síochána will implement the Health Referral Scheme (HRS) at midnight on 1st September 2026. This is a pilot programme developed by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, in partnership with the HSE, and An Garda Síochána. The Health Referral Scheme provides An Garda Síochána with an alternative response to persons over the age of 18 found in possession of a small quantity of controlled drugs for personal use. Instead of prosecuting an individual for simple possession, Gardaí can opt to refer the person to the HSE’s Health Referral Scheme. This referral is an alternative to a prosecution or adult caution. The aim of the scheme is to provide a health-based response to people found in possession of drugs and who meet a certain set of criteria. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said: “The Health Referral Scheme is a positive development and An Garda Síochána has been working closely with Government stakeholders to prepare for implementation of this policy. “The commencement of this scheme allows our members to support harm reduction by di-
recting first-time offenders to the health services. Drug use remains illegal and is a serious danger to the health of all users. Having a mechanism to steer those taking drugs towards support services, rather than into the criminal justice system, is a welcome step in tackling the overall issue of drug use in Ireland.” The scheme was approved by the Director of Public Prosecutions under Section 10 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act, 2024. The Health Referral Scheme comes into effect at midnight on Tuesday, 1st September 2026. This means only offences committed on or after this date are eligible for the referral. Similarly, Gardaí can only offer the referral scheme as an alternative to prosecution on, or after this date. Referrals can only be made by An Garda Síochána if it is the offender’s first drug offence. If a person has a previous conviction for drugs use, or has an adult
caution, they are not eligible for this scheme. If a person accepts this referral, they will then contact the Health Service Executive (HSE) and engage in a rehabilitation and treatment programme. If a person does not accept the referral, they will be prosecuted under the relevant drugs legislation. Possession of controlled drugs under Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act remains a criminal offence. The offender must admit to possession of a controlled drug for personal use at the time of the offence, and be willing to participate in the Health Referral Scheme. Referrals will be made in line with An Garda Síochána’s internal policy. If a person is eligible for the Health Referral Scheme, An Garda Síochána will provide them with details on how to progress to the next steps. This involves contacting the Health Service Executive (HSE) and booking an appointment a SAOR (Support, Ask and Assess, Offer Assistance, Refer) practitioner. The scheme will give the firsttime offender an opportunity to engage with the health service for rehabilitation and treatment, as an alternative to prosecution through the courts.
Man urged to continue progress in prison ahead of release next year A DUNDALK man who pleaded guilty to drugs charges at Dundalk District Court was encouraged to keep making progress while in prison. Kyle Callan of College Manor, Hoey’s Lane, admitted possession of four alprazolam
tablets at the same address ion December 3rd, 2024. The 21-year-old defendant, whose 130 previous convictions were mostly as a juvenile, told the court that he is getting on well in prison where he is serving a sentence on unrelated
matters. He is due for release in 2027. Judge Nicola Andrews stated that she would take the new matters into consideration and urged Mr Callan to continue to do well in prison.
Cllr wants Louth to explore Chicago ties over Kilcurry O’Hare link A COUNTY Louth family connection to the man whose name is on Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport could be used to build stronger tourism and economic ties with the United States city, Cllr John Reilly (FG) believes. He raised the issue in a motion at the September Dundalk Municipal District meeting after being made aware of research connecting Edward “Butch” O’Hare’s ancestry with Kilcurry, with the connection brought to his attention by a Cork councillor. The research highlighted by Cllr Reilly identifies Patrick James O’Hare, born in Lurgankeel near Kilcurry in 1825, as part of the O’Hare family which later emigrated to Illinois. Edward “Butch” O’Hare became a World War II flying ace and Medal of Honor recipient, with Chicago’s O’Hare Interna-
tional Airport later named in his honour. “I think this is a unique opportunity for Louth County Council to explore economic links with Chicago and tourist links with Chicago,” he said, adding the Lurgankeel roots were also something the area could take pride in. “This is a wonderful story that highlights the global reach of families from County Louth,” he said. “The fact that the O’Hare family can trace its roots back to Lurgankeel near Kilcurry is a source of great pride for our community and our county.” With Chicago’s strong IrishAmerican community, he sees scope for links around tourism, culture and education, as well as business. “The O’Hare story is not just about history,” he said. “It presents an opportunity to strength-
en ties between County Louth and Chicago through tourism, culture, education and business.” He also pointed to investment, heritage tourism and cultural exchange as areas where the connection could have potential. “Chicago is home to a strong Irish American community, and this shared heritage can help forge new relationships and opportunities for both regions,” he said. “The O’Hare link provides a unique bridge between Louth and one of America’s great cities.” Concluding, he added, “The story of Patrick O’Hare reminds us that local history can have international significance. “By celebrating this connection, we honour our past while creating opportunities for future cooperation between County Louth and Chicago.”
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Siblings win International Mental Arithmetic Olympiad SIBLINGS Nikol and Oleksandr Kovalenko have both been crowned champions at the International Mental Arithmetic Olympiad which was held in Porto, Portugal last month. The International Mental Arithmetic Olympiad is a global competition where children and students test their speed, accuracy, and focus in solving complex math problems in their heads without using calculators or paper Amazingly, both seven-yearold Nikol and her ten-year-old brother Oleksandr became champions in their respective sections at the international competition which brought together 234 participants from 14 countries. Both Nikole and Oleksandr
attend Realt na Mara school having moved to Dundalk in March 2023 following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Both Nikol and Oleksandr only started mental arithmetic classes in October last year with Oleksandr immediately placing third in a Ukrainian online Olympiad. He would follow that up with first place finish which qualified him for the International championships in Porto. Having performed fantastically on stage in Porto he is now an international champion. Nikol followed a similar path winning the Ukrainian national title before qualifying for Porto where she became an international champion. Both children study online
with the same teacher who is from Ukraine. Nikol and Oleksandr’s mother Elizabeth was understandably hugely proud of her children’s accomplishments. “I was crying when it was announced that they had both won and I was so proud of them. They have an online teacher who gives them lessons once a week and both of them have been blessed with very quick brains and they are able to do arithmetic in their heads very quickly. To even take part in the competition was fantastic but to see both of them becoming champions was unbelievable. Next year the competition is in Antalya in Turkey and both of them will go to defend their crowns,” stated Elizabeth. Oleksandr and Nikol Kovalenko were both crowned champions at the Mental Arithmetic Olympiad.
New e-scooter regulations will create safer roads for users and pedestrians FIANNA Fáil TD for Louth Erin McGreehan has said the new suite of e-scooter regulations coming into force from Friday will help create a safer environment for e-scooter users and pedestrians and improve safety on our roads and streets. From Friday, anyone using an e-scooter in Ireland will be required to wear a helmet and high visibility clothing as part of a wider package of road safety measures approved by Government in July. Further measures will be introduced in the coming weeks and months as the necessary legislative, administrative and technical changes are completed: Fees for detention and storage of seized e-scooters will be doubled, rising to €80 for detention and the first day of storage and €30 for each additional day or storage. This will take effect from 2nd October; The minimum age for an e-scooter user will be increased from 16 to 18 years. Following legal advice from the Attorney General’s office, this measure has been submitted to the EU Commission as part of the EU
Erin McGreehan, TD. TRIS (Technical Regulation Information System) process. This process takes up to 12 weeks, and it is intended that these regulations will be introduced before the end of the year; Charges for Fixed Charge Notices will be increased to €100 for e-scooter offences. Regulations for this change will be brought forward in the coming weeks; A Fixed Charge Notice offence for not wearing a helmet or high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter will be introduced at same time at the new rate of €100.
Commenting on the changes, Deputy McGreehan said: “Technology is changing rapidly and so too is the way we travel. E-scooters offer a huge opportunity for more efficient, convenient and cleaner travel, but like all emerging technologies, there are challenges and dangers. That is why Government is acting to ensure e-scooters are used in a safe and responsible manner. “More than 1,000 children have attended emergency departments with e-scooter related injuries since 2021. That is a worrying figure and demonstrates why stronger safety measures are needed. “These rules are designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries and make our roads and streets safer for everyone, whether they are using an escooter, walking or using another form of transport. “E-scooters can play an important role in how people get around our towns and cities, but their benefits have to be balanced with the safety of users and pedestrians. These regulations will strengthen safety on our roads while ensuring the benefits of e-scooters can be realised in a safe and responsible way.”
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Dundalk family receive national recognition for volunteer fundraising
A DUNDALK family has received national recognition for its volunteer fundraising work for North Louth Hospice Homecare. Melissa Hayes, and her parents, Michael and Patricia Hayes, raise funds each year in tribute to Melissa’s late friend Gene Berrill, who passed away in 2016, and to recognise North Louth Hospice Homecare’s support of Michael, following a cancer diagnosis in 2015. To date, the family has raised €200,000. Since 2015, their fundraising culminates each year in a charity concert ‘Fairytale of Dundalk’ at the An Táin Arts Centre in December, which has featured Bagatelle, The Fureys, Duke Special, Jim Corr, The 4 of Us, Zoë Conway and John McIntyre. Melissa has also long been involved in raising funds for North Louth Hospice through a charity CD, busking, Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice events and production of a calendar. The family’s work was
Melissa and Michael Hayes. recently honoured at St Francis Hospice in Dublin’s Blanchardstown with a Together for Hospice National Super Host Award. This year’s Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice aims to raise over €2million and takes place on Thursday, September 24. But supporters can host or attend a coffee morning on a date that suits them – with every cent raised going to their local hospice. “We have seen first hand the work of North Louth Hospice Homecare,” said Melissa. “I am in the very fortunate position of being able to say both my parents have come through cancer
treatment. That is why we keep doing it.“Others are not so fortunate. North Louth Hospice Homecare is completely volunteer led and remarkable in terms of its work, the number of volunteers, and the amount of people it reaches. “Each year, you know somebody diagnosed with cancer. The fundraising helps somebody different every time. “Fairytale of Dundalk has grown into something quite lovely in the days leading up to Christmas,” added Melissa, who paid tribute to work of Rita Griffin and the many others who help with fundraising.
According to Anne Newell, Treasurer, North Louth Hospice Homecare, support of Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice is invaluable and funds vital services and quality initiatives, greatly improving care for patients with life-limiting illness. “Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice, one of our longest and most-loved fundraisers, is now in its 34th year raising funds for Hospice inpatient and community services around Ireland,” she said. Together for Hospice, The National Hospice Movement, represents 24 Hospice and specialist palliative homecare providers supporting patients and their families across Ireland. Register to host a coffee morning on Thursday, September 24 - or on a date that suits you – at hospicecoffeemorning . ie or call 0818 995 996. If you cannot host or attend a coffee morning, you can donate at: hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate
Garda appeal for information relating to missing person Stuart Rutherford GARDAÍ are appealing to the public for assistance in locating Stuart Rutherford (55), who is reported missing from Dundalk, Co. Louth, since Tuesday 18th August 2026. Stuart was last seen in Dundalk on Friday 21st August 2026. Stuart is described as being approximately 5 foot 8 inches in height, with a slim build, blue eyes and grey hair. When last seen, Stuart was
wearing blue jeans, black runners, a grey t-shirt with long sleeves, and a black and grey jacket with a hood. Gardaí and Stuart’s family are concerned for his wellbeing. Anyone with information on Stuart’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dundalk Garda Station on (042) 938 8400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or Stuart Rutherford.. any Garda Station.
Mental health youth services ‘remain under severe pressure’ NEW figures show that 4,800 children and young people are waiting to be seen by Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), with the highest number of these in the Louth/ Meath area. The figures, which are the HSE data to the end of July, were released to Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú and show that there are 545 young people waiting in the Louth/Meath area, with a third of them, 162, waiting for more than 12 months. Deputy Ó Murchú said the figures show that youth and mental health services ‘remain under severe pressure’ and said the government had overseen an
increase in the numbers of children waiting. He said: “Early intervention is the single most effective way to prevent lifelong mental illhealth, yet too many children and young people continue to face delays in accessing the support they need. “Since this Government took office in 2025, the number of children and young people waiting for a CAMHS appointment has increased by 600, rising from 4,200 to 4,800 by the end of July 2026, an increase of 14.3%, with 673 children and young people waiting over a year for a firsttime appointment. “Around 75% of all mental
health difficulties emerge before the age of 25, making timely intervention critical. “Children and young people deserve accessible and highquality care, regardless of where they live. “Sinn Féin believes that mental health must be treated with the same urgency as physical health. “That means investing in community-based early intervention services, recruiting and retaining the multidisciplinary staff needed across CAMHS, and ensuring that every child can access assessment and treatment within clinically appropriate timeframes”.
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Community calls for action on Ramparts Watercourse AS part of Heritage Week 2026, around 25 people joined the Ramparts River Walk: Stories of the Past, Visions of the Future on Saturday 22 August 2026, organised by Friends of the Earth Dundalk. Beginning at Ladywell Shrine, the walk followed the Blackwater and Ramparts watercourses, exploring their history, connection with Dundalk and condition today. Using a citizen science approach, participants recorded observations and shared local memories and stories. Feedback highlighted concerns about very low water levels, overgrown vegetation, litter, pollution and poor maintenance, alongside a decline in wildlife. Participants recalled seeing kingfishers, otters, herons, ducks and small fish and
Friends of the Earth Dundalk have called for action on Ramparts Watercourse.
QUIZ 1—Katie Taylor concluded her glittering career in Croke Park on Saturday evening. In what year did she win gold at the Olympic Games? 2—In an Irish general election what is the minimum amount of seats that must be filled in every constituency? 3—Skip, reverse, draw two (+2), Wild and Wild Draw Four are cards used in which popular card game which was originally developed in 1971 and released by Mattel? 4—What was the score after 90 minutes when Ireland played Romania in World Cup 90? 5—‘Jock’s Shop’ was once a very popular shop in Dundalk located in Park Street. What shop is in the building today which once was home to Jock’s Shop? 6—In what sport can a player be ‘sacked’ during a play? 7—The Suez Canal links the Mediterranean with which sea? 8—What should you never say again, according to the title of a 1983 James Bond film? 9—What does CIA stand for? 10—The Point Depot in Dublin was transformed into a music theatre in 1988. Over the past 38 years it has had three names. Can you name all three? The Stinker—Four US states start with the word New. Can you name all four?
ANSWERS
expressed a strong desire to see wildlife return. The Ramparts was also recognised as an important part of Dundalk’s heritage, with a call to record local stories and memories through signage and information boards. There was a clear vision for a clean, well-maintained riverside walkway where people can enjoy nature, walk, relax and learn about local history. Friends of the Earth Dundalk would like to thank the River Basin Management Service for its financial support, and Louth Heritage Officer Brendan McSherry for joining our event and sharing his knowledge of the watercourse with everyone. We would also like to thank everyone who took part and shared their memories and ideas. The
walk finished up with coffee and cake at The Bike Station Coffee Dock, Georges Quay, and where the craic and conversation continued. We hope to build on the momentum from the walk by bringing interested people together soon to explore forming a community River Guardian group and taking practical steps towards restoring the Ramparts to the heart of the town. We are always looking for new members, so if you think you might be interested follow us on Facebook (https://www. facebook.com/foedundalk/) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/foedundalk) or get in touch at foedundalk@gmail.com and find out how you can get involved.
GRACE GONNELLY ’S SHORT FILM inNEWS Brief SET TO HIT THE ‘BIG APPLE’
AN 18 year-old Dundalk filmmaker is heading to New York after one of her short films was selected for one of the world’s biggest student film festivals. Grace Gonnelly’s short film Cliff Edge has been selected for the All American High School Film Festival. The Red Barns Road native is hoping to travel to New York in October to watch it play at the AMC Empire 25 theatres in Times Square. Cliff Edge has already been nominated for the Best Documentary from “Cinemagic On the Pulse film festival” and for the most sustainable film award, RTE factual award and the Radharc
award” from Fresh International Film Festival. Earlier this year she was nominated for Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards which took place in Mansion House in Dublin. According to Grace she wrote the short film about her own struggles growing up with chronic pain. “I wrote the film nearly two years ago and it’s just surreal how well it has been received, first in Ireland, then Australia and now in New York,” states Grace. “I made it when I was 16 to just voice my frustrations of living with chronic pain. I was in that really weird space where you are not a child in the health system and not an
adult either. You’re sort of in between and you feel a bit lost. “The reaction it has got over the last couple of years has been amazing and to now see it being selected for the All American High School Film Festival is just the cherry on top really. I absolutely love the process of making films and I’ve just actually finished my brand new feature which is called Compared Innocence. It’s something I love to do and I hope to keep on doing it for many years to come,” stated Grace. The All American High School Film Festival is the world’s largest student film festival, held from Grace Gonnelly’s short film ‘Cliff Edge’ will be screened in New York next month. October 16 to 18.
Public transport fare increases are ‘unacceptable’—Ó Murchú THE government must act to stop the proposed hikes to public transport fares in the middle of a cost of living crisis, Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has said. The Sinn Féin deputy was reacting to the news that the NTA announced fare increases across the state of 15% on average, with changes across the Transport for Ireland (TFI) network, including services operated by Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and TFI Local Link. He said the increases, which are five times the rate of inflation, were ‘unacceptable’ and called on the Minister for Transport to act to stop the price hikes coming into effect and provide the NTA with adequate funding to deliver and expand public transport services. Deputy Ó Murchú said the prices hike on public transport were ‘baf-
Ruairí Ó Murchú TD. fling’ and a ‘blow’ to those who rely on services. He said: “At a time when people are battling the cost-of-living crisis, these increases are unacceptable and cannot be allowed to go ahead. “The Government is supposed to be incentivising the use of public transport. Making people pay more for services that are often over-
crowded and unreliable does the opposite. “What is the government thinking here? We had stark climate change warnings only last week, the roads in our towns in Louth are chronically congested, and households are pushed to breaking point with the cost-of-living crisis. “The Government says it wants
to expand public transport services, yet it is starving the NTA of the funding it needs to deliver new services. The Government has no vision and ambition. “If the Government genuinely wants to get people off the roads and onto public transport in order to meet our climate targets and improve congestion, it has to make public transport more reliable and more affordable. “We cannot ask people to change how they travel while simultaneously making public transport more expensive and failing to deliver adequate services. “The Minister must act to stop these price hikes and ensure that there is enough funding for the NTA to deliver a fit-for-purpose public transport system and expand new services.”
Irish Kidney Association
The Irish Kidney Association would like to invite you to their next Louth | Meath Branch Meeting: 16th September in the Monasterboice Inn @ 7.30pm. We are delighted to have Lisa Toland - IKA Peer Support CoOrdinator as our Guest Speaker. We look forward to seeing you then.
Second Annual Community Expo
An Opportunity for Co Louth Voluntary and Community organisations to exhibit. The Community Expo 2026 will be taking place on Wednesday September 30th in The Pavilion in Dunleer from approximately 11am – 2pm. For further details please contact Anna Ryan-PPN Resource Worker from Louth Public Participation Network on 086 074 9677.
An Táin Photographic Group meeting
An open invitation to come along to our first meeting of the season and meet our group. Monday 14th September at 8pm. An Tain Photographic Group in Clan na Gaels GFC. Ecco Road, Ard Easmuin, Dundalk. There are lots of really interesting topics that will be covered over a range of talks, practical evenings and competitions. The club is made up of members ranging in all different skill levels from novice to advanced. They all share a passion for photography and all help, encourage and inspire each other to become the best photographers that they can be. The club is always looking to welcome new members, so if you have a passion for photography why not come along and join us.
1—London 2012, 2—three seats, 3—UNO, 4—0-0 (Ireland went on to win 5-4 on penalties), 5—Macfar Property (1 Park Street), 6—American Football, 7—Red Sea, 8— Never (Never Say Never Again), 9—Central Intelligence Agency, 10—Point Theatre, O2 Arena and the 3Arena. The Stinker: New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico and New York.
Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
McKeown leaves Independent Christopher Duffy wins Ireland and announces silver for Ireland at independent candidacy
RYAN McKeown has announced his decision to leave the Independent Ireland party and will contest the next local elections as an Independent candidate. In a statement, Ryan said: “After careful consideration, I believe this is the right decision for my future and for the communities I hope to represent. I strongly believe that Dundalk, Carlingford and County Louth need more like-minded Independent voices working together for the good of our communities and the people who call them home. Party politics, in my view, is becoming increasingly disconnected from the people. Through the countless conversations and messages I have received from members of our community, it is clear that many people no longer have the same level of confidence in traditional political parties. My focus has always been simple: to help people. Whether someone contacts me about a local issue, a family concern or a problem affecting their community, I will continue to do everything I can to support them, regardless of politics or personal background.
Special Olympics Games
Ryan McKeown. I am aware that some elected representatives have questioned my involvement in local issues because I am not currently an elected official. However, you do not need a title to care about your community or to help someone in need. My commitment has always been to the people who contact me, and that commitment will not change. I feel truly blessed and honoured that so many people have placed their trust in me and encouraged me to become their representative. That trust is something I will never take for
granted. As an Independent candidate, I will continue to stand with local families, local communities and the people of this great area. My priority will always be to listen, to act and to fight for what our communities deserve. This campaign will not be about party politics. It will be about people, community and ensuring that Dundalk, Carlingford and County Louth have a strong, honest and independent voice. Together, we can put our communities first.”
DUNDALK Special Olympics Club is celebrating a fantastic international achievement after club member Christopher Duffy won a Silver Medal for Ireland in bowling at the Special Olympics Sweden Invitational Games 2026 in Malmö. Christopher travelled to Sweden as part of Team Ireland’s eight-strong bowling team, proudly representing Ireland, Dundalk and his local Special Olympics club on the international stage. After all the hard work and preparation leading up to the Games, Christopher produced a superb performance to claim Silver for Ireland, while fellow Team Ireland bowler Conor Hegarty also enjoyed a fantastic competition, winning Gold. Christopher’s success follows months of preparation, with valuable support at home from GR8 in Dundalk, who helped him with his training ahead of the international competition. Dundalk Special Olympics Club Chairperson Damian
Christopher Duffy. Mackin thanked GR8 for their support and congratulated Christopher on his achievement. “Everyone at Dundalk Special Olympics Club is incredibly proud of Christopher. To see one of our athletes representing Ireland and coming home with an international Silver Medal is a
wonderful achievement. We are also very grateful to GR8 for the support they gave Christopher with his preparation and training.” Christopher had some very special supporters with him in Malmö, with his family travelling to Sweden to cheer him on throughout the competition. His Silver Medal is a proud moment not only for Christopher and his family, but also for Dundalk Special Olympics Club and the wider Dundalk community. Congratulations Christopher — you represented Ireland and Dundalk with distinction, and everyone at the club is extremely proud of you! Successes like Christopher’s begin at club level, with athletes supported week after week by dedicated volunteers. Dundalk Special Olympics Club is always looking for new volunteers to help provide sporting opportunities for our athletes. If you have some time to give and would like to get involved, the club would love to hear from you.
Afternoon Tea At the Pumping Station Fairy Garden
There was a large turnout at the annual Afternoon Tea at the Pumping Station Fairy Garden Green at Pearse Park. All donations raised go towards the upkeep for the garden.
Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com
€57,885-funded upgrade “Ongoing battle” between completed at The Demesne delivery trucks, bollards WORK has finished on a €57,885-funded upgrade of the Demesne in Dundalk, with new seating, improved footpaths, landscaping and a solar-powered litter bin among the changes made to the town centre space. The project was funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht through the Community Recognition Fund, and Louth County Council carried it out in collaboration with Dundalk Tidy Towns, with the work aimed at making the area easier and more comfortable to use for both residents and visitors. Age-friendly seating has been installed, paths through the Demesne have been improved and landscaping work has also been carried out, alongside the installation of the new solar-powered litter bin. Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District Cllr Andrea McKevitt welcomed the completion of the work, describing the Demesne as an important amenity in the centre of Dundalk. “The Demesne is a valuable public amenity in the heart of our town,” she said. “These improvements make the space more accessible, safer and more welcoming for everyone who uses it. Projects like this encourage people to spend more time outdoors and help ensure our public spaces can be enjoyed by people of all ages.” Dundalk Tidy Towns chairperson, Helen Byrne, said, “Dundalk Tidy Towns is delighted to have worked alongside Louth County
and cycle lanes
The Demesne in Dundalk has received an upgrade in recent weeks.
Council on this project. “The improvements at The Demesne have enhanced an important community space and will help ensure it remains an attractive and enjoyable place for residents and visitors for years to come. “We are particularly pleased to see features that support both sustainability and accessibility.” The Community Recognition Fund was set up in recognition of the contribution made by communities across Ireland which have welcomed and supported new arrivals and provides capital funding for projects such as community infrastructure and facilities, with the aim of improving local amenities and quality of life for the wider community. Louth County Council Director of Services David Jones said the
Demesne project was an example of what could be achieved when the council and local community groups worked together. “This project shows what can be achieved through collaboration between local authorities, community groups and Government,” he said. “Working closely with Dundalk Tidy Towns has enabled us to deliver improvements that respond to local needs and enhance a wellused public space. “We are grateful for the support provided through the Community Recognition Fund, which has helped deliver valuable projects for communities across County Louth.” The Demesne is one of 11 projects across Co Louth currently receiving support through the Community Recognition Fund.
Questions raised over NTA powers after Hill Street bus stop concerns QUESTIONS have been raised over how much say the National Transport Authority has in choosing bus stop locations in Dundalk following concerns about the new stop on Hill Street Bridge. Independent Cllr Maeve Yore raised the issue at the September meeting of Dundalk Municipal District, asking whether the NTA could effectively dictate where stops go. “Everybody is going mad about the bus stop on Hill Street Bridge,” she said.
“Do the NTA dictate to us where to put stuff? Have they more power than us?” Council officials said the NTA would normally suggest a general area for a bus stop, but the location would then come back to the council’s operations team. The council would look at the proposed location in terms of safety under the Road Traffic Act. The NTA also says individual bus stop locations are subject to approval by the relevant road authority, which in most cases is the local council.
Cllr Maeve Yore.
A TIMED loading bay could help solve the ongoing problems between delivery trucks, bollards and the cycle lane on Chapel Street in Dundalk, councillors have heard. Speaking at the Dundalk Municipal District meeting this month, Independent Cllr Ciarán Fisher said there was an “ongoing battle” at the location, with businesses trying to take deliveries on what is already a very tight one-way street. “There’s an ongoing battle between delivery trucks and bollards there and the cycle lane,” he said. He said he liked the idea of the cycle lane, but felt it was not being used as much as it could be and pointed out that the two-way cycle lane takes up a lot of space on Chapel Street. At the same time, he said cyclists should not have to put up with vehicles blocking the lane. “I’d like an end to the conflict between bollards and also people complaining there are people blocking cycling, as they shouldn’t, but also there’s also the necessity of increasingly busy businesses there,” he said. Cllr Fisher asked if a temporary or timed loading bay could be looked at for some of the businesses, rather than having delivery trucks trying to squeeze in around the cycle lane and bollards. A spokesperson for the
Cllr Ciaran Fisher. council said the problem was already proving costly, “We’ve had issues at that location and it’s costly as well because a lot of bollards get damaged because we’re constantly repairing them.” Cllr Fisher then raised parking problems elsewhere in Dundalk, saying he had received reports of vehicles parked on footpaths and double yellow lines. “We do have a duty to stop people parking on footpaths. We do have a duty to stop people parking on double yellow lines we put in in the first place,” he said. He also asked when the council’s pay parking review was due and whether there was any chance of extending the
pay parking area, or doing more about persistent parking problems outside it and pointed to footpaths which were being improved to make them more accessible, only for vehicles to be parked on them. Cllr Fisher also welcomed the work carried out at The Crescent and around the Friary Church, saying it “looks great finally”, with new yellow lines there, which he hoped would stop the roundabout being blocked, although he said enforcement still seemed to be an issue. A council official said they had no update on the pay parking review as it did not fall under their section, but would take the matter back to the right department.
Still no opening date for Dundalk athletics track Dundalk’s new athletics track has already hosted the homecoming of European champion Kate O’Connor, but there is still no confirmed date for when it will open to the public. Independent Cllr Maeve Yore raised the issue at this month’s Dundalk Municipal District meeting, saying the first phase of the Muir-
hevnamor project was now finished. “The first phase is finished. It’s fabulous,” she said, as she asked when the facility would open. Louth County Council had said at the end of July that work was entering its final stages and the track was on schedule for completion by mid-August.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Cllr Yore also asked where things stand with the wider Muirhevnamor Park masterplan. The council has €150,000 set aside for that work this year. No further timeline was given at the meeting for either the opening of the track or the masterplan.
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com
Funding limits stall several Bin collection at 11.45pm Dundalk active travel schemes raised in Dundalk SEVERAL active travel projects in Dundalk are facing further delays despite months, and in some cases years, of work on design, consultation and planning. The issue came up at the latest meeting of Dundalk Municipal District when Cllr Maeve Yore (Ind) asked whether anything could be done to speed up the process and get more projects moving. Officials had some “good news” on that front, telling councillors that the National Transport Authority had recently changed parts of its approval process for smaller schemes. Projects of up to €5 million should now have fewer steps to go through, with less paperwork and more scope for local authorities to move them on, the meeting heard. The difficulty is that getting projects through the system more quickly does not necessarily mean the money will be there to build them. Louth has €4 million for active travel and Safe Routes to School projects this year, along with another €500,000 for busstop improvements. In 2025, €6.3 million was allocated for 28 active travel projects. Cllr Butler asked council officials if there “was any sign of getting money to do our active travel projects?” adding it has been “amazing to go through the process and the non-stautory consultation”. “But you know, is it just going to sit on the shelf and no sign of any money for it?,” she asked. Officials told the meeting that funding remained an issue for councils outside the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). While transport spending nationally has increased, they pointed to the level of investment going into major projects such as MetroLink and BusConnects, adding councils such as Louth were continuing to work within their existing allocations while further funding is awaited. The council’s own reports say that approval to move from one stage of a project to the next does not mean the NTA has committed to funding whatever comes afterwards. There are already several schemes facing that problem. Hoey’s Lane has gone through
Cllr Marianne Butler. design work and public consultation, with its Part 8 public display completed over the summer, but council reports show it is due to be suspended because of budget limits. The Hill Street Bridge to Dundalk Train Station project is also due to stop at its current stage, while the wider Ard Easmuinn scheme is being held back as school works are prioritised. The R132 Táin Bridge project is due to stop once its Section 38 process is finished. Cllr Butler then raised two related concerns: whether money already allocated to the R132 Inner Relief Road project would be spent, and what was happening with Dublin Road, which she said had not been resurfaced because active travel works were expected. There is €800,000 allocated this year to the R132 project, where the Xerox Junction upgrade is being brought forward separately. “I don’t want to be in a situation where we are told it’s not spent and we have to go back to the NTA again,” she told the meeting. Officials responded that a full set of tender documents had been reviewed and sent back to the design team for updating, with the intention of getting the Xerox Junction contract out to tender as soon as possible. Cllr Butler also highlight recent NTA research which found that every €1 invested in active travel infrastructure generates almost €4 in wider benefits to society over a 30-year period. “The Government seriously
needs to start funding this,” she told members. “This is money we need.” Hoey’s Lane came back into the discussion when Cllr Yore raised concerns people had brought to her about the junction with Dublin Road, particularly the removal of the dedicated left-turn lane. “Please tell me there’s a lefthand turn,” she asked. A council official confirmed that the dedicated left-turn lane had been removed from the plans, but explained that the junction itself would become fully signalised as part of the wider Dublin Road scheme, which already has Part 8 approval. The official said motorists can currently be left waiting for gaps in traffic on Dublin Road, especially during the morning and evening peaks but the new signals should manage traffic more efficiently, members heard, while also making it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the junction. Cllr Yore also asked how much say the council has over other transport decisions, including where bus stops are placed. Officials explained that the NTA can identify a general area for a stop, but the individual location still has to be considered by the local road authority from a safety point of view. NTA guidance also confirms that stopping locations require approval from the relevant road authority, normally the local authority. Dublin Road itself remains tied up with the wider active travel delays, with Cllr Butler recalling discussions from 2019 and 2020 when councillors were told the road would not be resurfaced because active travel works were planned for the area. With Hill Street and roads nearby having since been resurfaced, she added, “People are asking now, what about the rest of the Dublin Road?” A council official acknowledged there was “no doubt” Dublin Road needed resurfacing and confirmed it remained on the council’s list, but explained that any road works had to be looked at alongside the active travel plans.
QUESTIONS have been asked about how late refuse companies should be collecting bins after one collection on Avenue Road in Dundalk allegedly took place at around 11.45pm in recent weeks. At last week’s Dundalk Municipal District meeting, Cllr Maeve Yore questioned whether the council had control over bin collection times and wanted clarification on who monitors the hours worked by bin company staff. Avenue Road is in a 50km/h zone and under national waste collection rules, household kerbside collections in areas with a speed limit of 60km/h or less should generally take place between 6am and 10pm, although later hours can be agreed. Under Louth’s waste bye-laws, bins cannot normally be stored on a roadway, footway, footpath
or other public place. They can be put out from 8pm on the evening before collection and must be removed by 8am the following day. The council had been praised at the meeting for improving accessibility and footpaths along Anne Street, but Cllr Ciaran Fisher made the point that wheelie bins were also blocking paths in locations all over town, which he said was “a shame to have those efforts undermined”. He said enforcement of the bylaws was important and suggested a coordinated effort with bin companies should be made to agree a schedule or a zone bin companies could operate in. Speaking after the meeting he said, “Certain bins go out on a Monday, others out on a Tuesday and so on, so there could be bins on the path week round even if
everybody is following the rules but in a lot of cases, they are not.” Cllr Fisher would also like to see more shared-bin arrangements considered in densely populated areas, similar to those used in apartment developments. “That cuts down on all sorts of dumping, those bins are large and take away a lot of waste and are cleared regularly and people don’t leave it,” he said. In response to Cllr Yore, a council official said the council “could maybe do something if there was a noise issue”, while indicating that the operational side of the service was a separate matter. The company was not named at the meeting, and it was not established whether later collection hours had been agreed.
1,200 applications for just 24 cost-rental homes in Dundalk DUNDALK’S first cost-rental scheme attracted around 1,200 applications for just 24 homes, councillors were told last week, with only around 30% found to be eligible. The figures emerged at the September meeting of Dundalk Municipal District when Sinn Féin Cllr Antóin Watters raised the new Tuath Housing development at Hearthfield, Mount Avenue. Councillors had been inundated with queries when applications opened, Cllr Watters told the meeting, with people looking for information about the online application process. “I think it shows the need for more of them,” he said. Even after roughly seven in ten applications were found to be ineligible, there were still far more eligible applications than homes available. Based on the approximate figures given at the meeting, around 360 applications met the criteria for just 24 homes, that’s
roughly 15 eligible applications for every home. Cllr Watters also pointed to the number of people sitting just outside the social housing system and asked whether the council was working with other Approved Housing Bodies on further costrental schemes in Dundalk that might become available in the next three to six months. Responding, a council official said the council continued to work with AHBs, but was not aware of another cost-rental application likely to come forward in the near future. Earlier this summer, Sinn Féin Cllr Kevin Meenan also spoke about people who earn too much to qualify for social housing but are still struggling with private rents. “There’s a huge amount of people coming to our offices who are earning too much and not enough to rent,” he told councillors. “They’re in this trench and that
trench is getting wider and wider and wider, bigger and bigger and bigger, and deeper and deeper and deeper. “These people are really crucified, for want of a better word.” Cost Rental is aimed at people who earn too much to qualify for social housing but are still finding private rents hard to afford. Rents are set below market rates and, outside Dublin, applicants generally need a net household income of less than €59,000, along with meeting a number of other conditions. More cost-rental homes are planned in Louth with Tuath Housing saying another 58 are in the pipeline at Ferrard Court in Drogheda, where 34 Cost Rental homes were delivered in 2023, while Louth County Council’s 2026 Service Delivery Plan sets a target of four Cost Rental schemes with Approved Housing Bodies this year.
Call for speed ramps on Blackrock road SPEED ramps should be considered along the R172 between Green Gates and Connolly’s Corner, according to Cllr Shane McGuinness (FF). He raised concerns about traffic speeds along the route at the September meeting of Dundalk Municipal District, saying there
were currently no ramps on the stretch and that while the road had been resurfaced, he believed speeds were “significant” and remained a problem there suggesting “five or six ramps” may be needed. In response, a council official said he would raise the issue
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
with the relevant section and check whether it could be considered under a low-cost safety scheme, adding that this year’s scheme had already gone out to tender and that a survey would likely be needed to assess speeds and whether ramps would be appropriate.
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM
NOVENA
ARTICLES FOR SALE
SPECIAL SERVICES
SPECIAL SERVICES
PLANNING NOTICES
NICE DININGROOM Table & 5 chairs (2 Carvers) for sale, open to offers Tel 087 2788573. 4 WHEELS and tyres for sale 195/65R15 (tyres like new) would suit Jeep or Trailer Tel 087 2788573.
CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799. QUALIFIED CARPENTER—Looking to transform your home.? I specialise in Architraves, Panelling, Doors, Flooring and all carpentry aspects. Contact Mark. R 083 4162364. 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 085762-3758 for quotation. HEDGE CUTTING—Tree pruning, general garden maintenance & clearance, power washing & gutter cleaning. Lawns cut large and small in Darver and surrounding areas. Contact 087 2296441. ALL-IN-ONE property maintenance, painting & decorating, general building maintenance carried out, domestic or commercial, gutter cleaning, dust free sanding, no job too big or too small, quality but affordable, contact Ian 0874158238. CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING—Trusted for over 30 years. Expert care, sparkling results. Call Patrick on 0872492325 or visit www.carpetcleaningservices.ie. 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. 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. KEVIN McMAHON ELECTRICAL Dundalk, small household jobs, safe electrical approved Tel 087 2548221 after 5pm. 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. ROBERTSON’S GARDENING—Garden maintenance, Lawn care, Hedge trimming, Pruning, Garden Tidy Ups, Clearances,. Dubin and Louth areas. Free quotes available. Contact 089 6057631 or robertsons.ie. CHARA COUNSELLING—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.
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. CARPENTER/BUILDER Email payasyougotradesman@gmail.com. Contact 087 9566627. €150 call out charge and €50 per hour.
McMAHON Michael 13th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Michael, late of Cedarwood Park, Dundalk. Dad To me you were someone special, what more can I say, I only wish with all my heart, that you were here today. You always had a smile to share, a joke, a laugh and time to care, A wonderful nature, kind and true, these are the memories I have of you. —Sadly missed by your daughter Lisa and Alan. Dad Silent memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year, Out of our lives you may be gone, but in our hearts you still live on. —Love always your son Paul, Shauna and Deane. Michael September comes with sad regret, an Autumn day we will never forget, You fell asleep without goodbye, but memories of you will never die. Jesus came to the side of your bed, these are the words he gently said: “You suffered much, now take my hand and come with me to a better land.” —From Margaret. Friend Gone from our lives that smiling face, and the heart that won so many friends’ Though life goes on without you, it will never be the same. —Always remembered by your friend Danny, Kate and Danielle. Anniversary Mass 10am Wednesday, September 16th, in St Patrick’s Church.
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). D.W. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). C.S. PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE Saint Jude, glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor has caused thee to be forgotten by many, but the Church honours and invokes thee universally as the patron of hopeless cases – of matters despaired off. Pray for me who am so miserable, make use, I implore thee, of that particular privilege accorded to thee, to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly (here make your request) and that I may bless God with thee and all the Elect throughout eternity. I promise thee O blessed Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favour, and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen. St Jude pray for us. And for all who invoke thy aid St Jude, help of the hopeless, aid me in my distress. Pray for us that we may be admitted into the Company of the blessed, to rejoice in the presence of God forever. D.W.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Rachael Shearwood, and James Callaghan intend to apply for Full Planning Permission for Extensions and Alterations to existing dwelling house at 37 Cypress Gardens, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Full permission is sought for a single storey extension to rear of existing dwelling. Permission also includes for the alterations to the interior of the existing dwelling, widening of existing driveway, storm water drainage improvement works 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 from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Pauline Gallagher, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at Saint Judes, Balriggan, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 Y0T8. The development will consist of: Retention of: Extensions & Alterations to rear of existing dwelling, Front Porch, Domestic Garage / Outbuilding 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, Niall Murphy, intend to apply for Permission for development at Lower Point Road, Dundalk, Co Louth. The development will consist of: A proposed two storey dwellinghouse to include a new vehicular entrance, new boundary treatment, landscaping 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.
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.
MOTORS FOR SALE 2014 TOYOTA AQUA 1.5 petrol hybrid automatic, 135k km, nct’d 2027, full-service history, one lady owner, €8,000 o.n.o. Tel 085 1337418.
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 to rent in Dundalk with private bathroom and living room. All mod cons. No HAP. Tel 086 3637749 between 5.30 & 7pm. DUNDALK ROOM rent-free to non-smoking, clean and reliable English (or Irish, German or French) speaker able to call emergency services for independent (but ageing) Irishman if required. Double bed and glazed, desk, WiFi, TV, Lift, bicycle storage; shared bathroom, kitchen, living room flat between Bus Station and Railway Station. Contribution towards extra electric welcomed but NOT mandatory. Detailed reply and long term preferred. email: a91w7cy.leader@mailo.com.
SPECIAL SERVICES CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 087 6660094 / 042 9332491 Email: tribalky@ yahoo.com. 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 085840-7707. 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 086-6071702. 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. 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.
CLASSES & COURSES GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228. SEWING CLASSES starting 16th September Adult and Kids 8-week courses. Bó Studios, 6 Jocelyn Street, Dundalk. Contact Bláthnaid 086 0312003. FRENCH & SPANISH GRINDS Junior and leaving cert levels. Experienced Teacher and State Examiner Contact Ian 087 2906489. FITNESS-DEFENCE-CONFIDENCE AIKIDO Love your enemies. Free Classes till September 21st! Wednesdays - Blackrock Community Centre: Cadets (age 7-13): 7.30-8.30pm Seniors (age 14 & above): 8.30-10pm Fridays - Dundalk Sport Centre: Cadets (age 7-13): 7.15-8.15pm - Seniors (age 14 & above): 8.15-9.45pm Classes resumes on Sept 9th: For booking or inquiry, contact Arno: 087 465 49 88 or dundalk@northeastaikido.ie.
SITUATIONS WANTED FRIENDLY UKRAINIAN lady living in Dundalk Town Centre looking for Full or Part Time work in restaurant, home help, cleaning work, etc Tel Julia 087 2435690. LADY AVAILABLE for housework, Blackrock area only Phone Leeanne 086 3502686.
PLANNING NOTICES LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We intend to apply to the above Planning authority on behalf of Slieve Foy Construction Ltd for Permission for Development at Newry Street / Old Quay Lane, Carlingford, Co. Louth. The Development consists of change of use of first floor of development previously granted planning permission under Planning Ref. No. 19/972 from 2 No. Apartments to part restaurant and part bed and breakfast accommodation and all Associated site development works. This Planning Application may be Inspected or Purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and a submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to Louth County Council in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by Louth County Council of the application. Signed: ECC Design & Engineering Ltd., Jenkinstown Business Park, Jenkinstown, Dundalk Tel. 042 9380285. E-Mail info@eccgroup.ie. Web www.eccgroup.ie. LOUTH CO. COUNCIL—I, Philip McFall, intend to apply for permission for retention of new bay window and front boundary walls and entrance gates to existing dwellinghouse, and all associated siteworks at No 2, Drive 1, Muirhevnamore, 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.
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026
Monaghan v Louth 2026 by Willie Quigley
Wheelie Bins
Windows
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This game, give me a conundrum and left me wondering about For which team, our Monaghan side of the house, they would shout. Duffy’s jetted off for a family holiday, to enjoy the Marabelle tide So they were not in Croke Park, to shout for either side. Another son-law, got so tense, he ended up in hospital, his name is Peter They had to regulate his heart by ECG’s, heart monitors along with some Ether. When he wakened the next morning, everything seemed somewhat hazy And then he heard Monaghan were beaten by Louth, he nearly went crazy. However, the nurses soon put him at ease, and told him he must have been dreaming As it was now only Sunday, and the game in Croke Park would soon be live streaming. But as he watched the game unfold, it wasn’t very helpful to his medications When the final whistle blew, Doctors feared he would have more palpitations. Downey’s 2 pntr lead, on stroke of HT, saw the Farney supporters go a bit pale They feared the wee county would put on second half push, and for victory, set sail. Jack McCarron, twinkle toes Stephen O’Hanlon, and Micael McCarville, man mountain Were all in top form, doing their best to provide a good supply to the Farney Fountain. Our player from Glen Emmets, with ‘turbo charged’ pace is Conor Grimes Bursting past men who didn’t realise, he was giving them the toughest of times. Then you have our No 5, a lad that never stops running, he is always so eager That Castletown man from ‘once a Clan always a Clan’ is Conal McKeever. One man that should never be told to play this new type of game plan, called Zonal That is St Marys Ardee man, our marauding centre full back named McKenny, Donal. One lad shouted, with just about 10 to go ‘we nearly bet them with fourteen’ ‘keep ball and play for extra time and we will surely beat them with fifteen’. When we went down to fourteen, I think Farney felt they’d win this battle But I was never in any doubt, that Louth would still give it a mighty rattle. Many felt the red card was harsh, and that it was nothing more than a black or yellow As that type of tackle, is not something you get, from that Sean Callaghan fellow. Louth centre half back, Tadhg McDonnell was again supreme, running the show Therefore, no surprise that he was RTE Man of the Match, his second in a row. Monaghan were 0-4 up on 7 mins, a McCarthy 2pntr and Andrew Woods double This early burst had Louth supporters thinking, their team might be in trouble. The man on the mike, Colm Corrigan on his last LMFM gig, was almost hoarse And his wing-man Declan Byrne, was also doing his best, to stay the course. My grandson Tiernan said, I’d be on my way home by half time, with my head down Our win, binned his prediction and when he came here, he wore a bit of a frown. After the final whistle, some Monaghan fans headed for the exit gate But not us, we were too busy planning where we would go to celebrate. Monaghan were short their regular goalkeeper, Scotstown’s Beggan, who is Rory His outfield rampaging and free kicking might have made the result a different story
What’s Really Happening in Louth’s Property Market?
A home that is presented well, corHow a property is presented, how it is rectly positioned in the market and mar- priced and where it is promoted can all FOR homeowners considering a move, keted to the right audience can generate influence the level of interest it receives. And once that interest arrives, experithe question is no longer simply what considerably more interest than one that their home is worth — it is understand- simply appears online with a photo- ence becomes important again. Understanding whether a buyer is ing where the market is heading, who is graph and a price. buying, and how local conditions are That has changed the role of the estate genuinely motivated, knowing when to negotiate and recognising when a propshaping demand. agent. Across County Louth, the property Today, selling a home involves much erty is attracting the right level of attenmarket continues to attract significant more than arranging viewings and ne- tion are all part of the expertise develinterest, with buyers drawn to the coun- gotiating a sale. Professional photogra- oped through working continuously in ty’s combination of established commu- phy, digital marketing, social media, the market. Thinking of selling? nities, quality housing and excellent virtual tours and access to established For many homeowners, selling is not buyer databases have all become imporconnectivity to Dublin and Belfast. an immediate decision. But while national property figures tant parts of the process. It may start with a conversation over provide an interesting snapshot, they do For DNG Duffy, those tools sit alongnot always reflect what is happening on side something more traditional: know- dinner, a discussion about downsizing, a growing family needing more space, or the ground. ing the local market. In Louth, the market can change conThe agency’s presence in Dundalk simply wondering what the house might siderably from one town — or even one and across Louth means its team deals be worth in today’s market. That first conversation does not necwith buyers and sellers every day, buildneighbourhood — to the next. That is something DNG Duffy has ing an understanding of what is attract- essarily need to be about putting a propexperienced first-hand over more than ing attention and where demand is erty on the market. two decades of working across the re- emerging. Sometimes, it is simply about underAt the same time, being part of the standing the options. gion. Established in Dundalk in 2001, the wider DNG network provides access to For homeowners across Louth who agency has built its business around an buyers beyond the immediate area. are beginning to consider their next The buyer has changed too understanding of the local market and move, speaking with an agent who Today’s purchaser is increasingly knows the local market can provide a the people who live in it. “Every property has its own story,” is a likely to begin their property search on- useful starting point. sentiment often heard from the DNG line, often viewing several homes before Because ultimately, the value of a Duffy team. “Location, presentation, deciding which ones are worth seeing in home is about more than a number on a timing and buyer demand can all have a person. valuation. significant impact on how a property It is about understanding the people That makes the first impression parperforms.” who want to buy it, the market they are ticularly important. And for homeowners, that local perHigh-quality imagery, detailed prop- buying into and what makes that parspective can be particularly valuable. erty information and virtual viewing ticular property stand out. Beyond the headline figures technology can allow potential buyers to And in Louth, local knowledge still Average prices can provide useful explore a home before they ever walk matters. context, but they can also disguise the through the front door. DNG Duffy — local property experdifferences between individual properFor sellers, this means the process be- tise, backed by the strength of the DNG network. ties. gins well before the first viewing. By KEITH DUFFY
(Managing Director of DNG Duffy)
HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.
042 9331515/086 2559201
NEWRY ROAD, DUNDALK (Rear of Go Petrol Station)
Car & Van Servicing NCT Preparation Engine, Clutch and Brake Repairs Suspension and Steering Repairs Diagnostics for All Makes & Models Tel 042 9327201 - Mob 087 2852406 info@camworxauto.ie - www.camworxauto.com
• DOE TEST CENTRE • TACHOGRAPH • CALIBRATION CENTRE • HEAVY & LIGHT COMMERCIALS Tel: 042 9335020 Email: mcardletestcentre@hotmail.com Ind Est, Coes Rd, Dundalk A91 EA8N
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Dundalk Leader 9th September 2026