10-03-2021

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Mary launches CF fundraiser Page 4

Brass Band pay respects to Billy Page 9

€7.49m will help Bridge the gap

World Book Day at the Redeemer Page 8&10

Wednesday, 10th March, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 10 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

For too many years the north end of town has been left behind, abandoned and excluded from improvement works with many of the properties on Bridge Street in particular falling into disrepair and dereliction.

However, all of that is about to change with the announcement that €7.49m will be allocated to the St Nicholas Quarter and Backlands Regeneration Scheme.

The project will aim to reinvigorate St Nicholas Quarter with Bridge St. and Linenhall St. in particular set to be transformed thanks to a project which will help stimulate the development of high-quality higher density residential schemes and a rejuvenated urban quarter.

Continued on Page 2

Local family give 70 years of service to the Irish Red Cross

Amanda Carroll, Chloe Cumiskey and Carol Cumiskey have give 70 years of service between them to the local branch of the Irish Red Cross. Full story Page 6.

Local reps speak out against online abuse The level of online abuse against public figures is on the rise with many councillors and politicians reporting higher volumes of nasty personalised attacks from people who can seemingly write what they want without fear of punishment from behind the safety of their phones or laptops. Three local representatives have spoken to the Dundalk Leader to describe their experiences of online trolling/abuse and what they would do if anything to try and solve this ever increasing problem.

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick says he refuses to give these ‘keyboard warriors’ a platform by acknowledging them and would much rather somebody debate any issues they have with him face to face.

Full Story Page 2

€7.49m will help Bridge the gap Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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From page 1 The work will consist of: public realm works to the Northern Gateway, Bridge St. and Linenhall St, Northgate St. and Peace Park which will see the area get new residential units above shops as well as major improvements of the appearance of the streets. This will include new foothpaths, new roads, new public lighting, new streetscapes and new landscaping.

The second phase will see Louth County Council issue Compusory Purchase Orders for the many vacant and derelict buildings in the area which will hopefully

lead to many new businesses opening up in the North End of town.

Unsurprisingly the news was greeted with joy for local representatives and traders from the area who have worked hard for many years to make this dream a reality. A local group, led by Joanne Lavelle and Sarah McKenna, have worked tirelessly in recent years to keep the issue on the agenda.

After much disappointment that street improvement works would be limited to only half of the neighbourhood, the group engaged with Louth County Council to seek funding for an

ambitious urban regeneration scheme.

“After previous unsuccessful funding bids and insufficient funds to complete the street improvement works, we engaged with Council Executive to explain the potential for jobs, homes and town centre life that can be achieved through regeneration of our neighbourhood,” said Joanne Lavelle.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the news.

It’s something we’ve worked very hard on the past few years to make sure Linenhall Street and Bridge Street weren’t left behind. It’s an example of a partnership working towards a good community outcome. I never lost heart.”

She continued: “In recent months, Senator John McGahon (FG) put a lot of energy into this issue. We’re also grateful to all the elected Councillors who supported us from Day One. This announcement shows what we can achieve when we’re

Derelict buildings in Bridge St. will soon become a thing of the past thanks to a successful application for government funding from Louth County Council. Photo credit: Anthony O’Hagan. all working together. It’s massive for our neighbourhood and we’re really excited about the work ahead.”

Speaking on the announcement of €7.4 Million for Bridge Street and Linenhall Street under the Urban Regeneration Fund, Senator McGahon said “For too long, Bridge Street and Linenhall Street were left behind

while the rest of the town progressed. Now with a €7.4 Million investment, both streets will now be on the same level playing field as the rest of Dundalk town.

This funding will completely re-energise and rejuvenate both streets and open up previously unimagined potential.

“Residential units above shop fronts will entice younger people to

live above the shop once more. It will unlock pedestrian space and create a thriving community space right in the heart of Dundalk. It will improve the streetscape for our elderly and people with disabilities while vacant and derelict buildings will be replaced with new retail units in which entrepreneurs can get their first start.

“Louth County Council did an excellent job and submitted a strong application and followed it up with further information in April 2020 in a bid to strengthen the application.

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick also welcomed the news stating that he was ‘ecstatic to see it become a reality’ “I have been working on this project for a

number of years and I am ecstatic to see it become a reality. This area has experienced high levels of vacancy, piecemeal/ ad-hoc development and dereliction over the last 30 years. This transformative project will stimulate the development of high-quality, higher density residential schemes and a rejuvenated urban quarter,” noted the TD for Louth.

Cllr Seán Kelly reacted to the news stating that ‘”This is a new dawn for Dundalk’s Northend. After so many years of neglect, we are finally turning a corner! Being from the area and knowing the struggles that businesses and residents have faced over the years I am over the moon for them, it’s their day. We can finally showcase the area and all that it has to offer with this much needed investment.

Brighter days are ahead for Bridge St and Linenhall Street,” concluded the O’Hanlon Park councillor.

Local representatives speak out against online abuse From page 1 “I know there is plenty of abuse out there being posted by keyboard warriors but to be honest I just ignore them. I never engage with them as I don’t want to give them a platform. When I post anything on my social media I do read

the replies and comments but if somebody is being nasty just for the sake of it I just skip past them and don’t let them affect me whatsoever.

“At the end of the day I have put myself forward as a public representative and all I want to do is do the very best I can for my constituents. I truly feel that anybody who puts their name forward should be respected and not be subjected to the vile abuse that is becoming more and more prevalent as social media gets more popular. I have absolutely no problem with somebody disagreeing with me or not liking things I say but I would have a thousand times more respect for them if they come up to me on the street and tell me that face to face instead of hiding behind a keyboard and typing out nasty stuff. I refuse to give these people an audience,” stated Deputy Fitzpatrick.

“The only thing that does really get to me

is when they bring my family into it. I am entitled to my opinion and if you disagree with me that’s fine. We can debate the issue face to face but there is absolutely no need for these keyboard warriors to go online and write terrible things about my family. I am doing the best I can and all I want to do at the end of the day is help my constituents,” concluded Peter.

Meanwhile Seanator Erin McGreehan called for sanctions on social media companies who refuse to deal with users who engage in hateful messages.

“Yes I have unfortunately received online abuse since taking the role of Senator. Social media can be a brilliant platform for so many things. However, at times, I have seen it become a cave for online abuse. Obviously nobody wants to receive abuse. It is not nice to be attacked but unfortunately, it comes with this role. It should

not, but it does seem to be expected that politicians are to receive abuse. I think that when people disagree with you, they tend to forget that you are also human, like everyone else. I do read the messages, sometimes you are able to skip past them. Other times depending on the nature fof the abuse you are not able to forget about them. I am not a stone, words matter.

“People need to be mindful of what they say. People need to remember that yes we are politicians and of course not everyone will agree with any politician all the time, however, we are people.

We are normal people like everyone else. I definitely believe that no person should be allowed to publish any comments online without their identification being disclosed. I am working on this action to make it compulsory.

The first step to get rid of online abuse, is to identify who is con-

tributing to this abuse.

I definitely believe that the people who send hate messages on social media, need to face consequences.

“The proposed media commissioner needs to have power to deal with online abusers. There needs to be sanctions on social media companies that repeatedly fail to act on users of their platforms.

Deputy Ruairí O’Murchú said that he tried to skip past the vitriol when reading messages while calling for a ban on people who spew hatred and spurious conspiracy theories.

“I don’t think I have been subjected to a huge amount of online abuse over the last 12 months. It was something I expected to have to deal with at some level when I was elected, first as a councillor and then as a TD. People can take stuff out of context and politicians are not always word perfect or nuanced either, but there

needs to be a balance. I read the messages, but I don’t get personally hurt by them. On occasion, I have contacted the people involved and spoken to them if they have raised issues and in the vast majority of cases, people are nowhere near as aggressive or aggrieved when you speak to them in person. In other cases, I just skip past vitriol,” explained the Sinn Fein TD. “I have stated publicly before that there needs to be a far quicker and robust response from social media companies to hate online.

There should be bans for accounts that spew hatred and junk science and spurious conspiracy theories. People who are caught sending hate messages online should face the rigour of the law in the real world. And people need to be far more careful themselves about what they react to and what they write for everyone else to see,” concluded Ruairí.

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Fitzpatrick hits out at government for failing to reach vaccine targets

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick has described the government’s failure to reach their vaccine targets for the second week running as ‘unacceptable’. Speaking in the Dáil the Dundalk TD said it was soul destroying for people in lockdown to see the government fail in their duty of rolling out the vaccine.

“I would like to start by commenting, once more, on the failure of this Government the HSE to reach its vaccination target for the second week in a row. It is unacceptable this has happened, and to make matters worse, it has happened two weeks in a row. As the Minister knows, the people of this country have been in

lockdown for the best part of a year. Their only hope of getting back to life as they once knew it is with the vaccine. It is soul-destroying for them to see on the daily news the continued failure of the Government and the HSE in respect of the vaccine roll-out,” explained Deputy Fitzpatrick.”

“Will the Minister confirm to the House what plans are in place to get the vaccine programme back on track? Has he made the point to the HSE the approach currently being taken is simply not good enough? What actions will be taken to ensure the vaccine roll-out programme is brought up to speed?

“It is not only Members

of the Opposition who are deeply unhappy with this roll-out programme. Members of the Minister’s own Government have also called it into question. The bottom line is we are falling behind in this. I constantly hear from GPs there is very little communication with the HSE. They are very frustrated. It is not good enough. The HSE must be more accountable.

“In Northern Ireland, anyone over the age of 60 and those aged over 16 who are classed as vulnerable can now book their vaccine appointments.

The North is way ahead of us. The authorities there have vaccinated 96% of people aged over 80, 91%

of those aged between 75 and 79, 86% of those aged between 70 and 74, 72% of those aged between 65 and 69, and 45% of those classed as vulnerable.

“Will the Minister confirm what action he is taking to ensure the vaccination programme gets back on track and remains on track until everyone who wants a vaccine gets it? What date has the Government set to roll out the vaccine to everybody in the State? Finally, can the Minister address the issue I raised in respect of dentists and their staff not receiving a date for vaccination?,” asked Fitzpatrick.

In response the Minister of Health, Stephen Donnelly described Deputy

Fitzpatrick’s statement on the matter as ‘absolute nonsense’ while pointing out that Ireland is faring very favourably in European tables tracking vaccine rollouts.

“The language the Deputy used is complete and absolute nonsense. It is that kind of loose talk and nonsense that erodes confidence in what is the most important thing that is happening in our country right now. To suggest that there are continued failures is nonsense.

To suggest that targets are constantly being missed is also nonsense. In fact, had the Deputy been here earlier on, he would have heard a very reasoned debate between Government

and Opposition on exactly that point,” stated Minister Donnelly.

“The HSE’s target is to vaccinate people as soon as the vaccines come into the country. To that end, at the start of this week, approximately 520,000 vaccine doses had arrived into the country. By the end of this week, approximately half a million vaccine doses will have been administered. If the Deputy wants to check, he can look at the European league tables and what he will find is that Ireland is consistently among the top few countries in terms of the percentage of the population that has been vaccinated,” concluded the Minister.

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

HSE urge public to keep their guard up in fight against COVID19

The Department of Public Health, HSE North East is appealing to the public to keep their guard up to support our hospitals and healthcare services as we continue the fight against COVID-19.

We need everyone to continue to adhere to the public health advice and together,

we can turn the tide on the COVID-19 pandemic. The resurgence of COVID-19 in recent months has impacted greatly on our health service.

Dr Keith Ian Quintyne, Specialist in Public Health Medicine, said: “What we have experienced in the last few months is how fast

COVID-19 can spread and the consequences that it can have for our hospitals, healthcare systems, and our local communities.”

“The number of cases in the community have started to decrease and our concern is that people will start to drop their guard.

Our hospitals are un-

der sustained pressure to provide care in challenging circumstances, we are asking the public to continue to support our hospitals by following the public health advice; staying at home, keeping a physical distance of two metres, wearing a mask, frequently washing hands, and ad-

hering to proper cough and sneeze etiquette.”

Dr Augustine Pereira, Director of Public Health HSE North East, commented: “It is important to reassure the public, that the vaccines are effective against the new strain.

All viruses mutate and change, which can lead to new strains of the vi-

rus emerging. The new variants of COVID-19 from UK which is now the dominant strain in Ireland suggests that they are more transmissible than other strains.”

“If you have travelled from any of the high-risk countries, you must self-isolate for 14 days from the date

of arrival into Ireland, even if your COVID-19 test after arrival has not detected Covid-19. We must all continue to adhere to the public health advice to prevent the spread of COVID-19, as it is the best protection we have against all strains of this virus.”

“There is hope, the vaccination rollout

provides the long-term hope and the current restrictions offer the opportunity to shorten the duration of the current wave”, he added.

More information and advice on COVID-19 is available at www.hse. ie/coronavirus or visit https://www.hpsc.ie/az/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/

Mary launches fundraising campaign in memory of her father LOCAL woman Mary Barry has launched a fundraising campaign for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland in memory of her father, Paddy Barry.

Mary from Knockbridge told the Dundalk Leader that her father, Paddy, passed away six years ago with pulmonary fibrosis.

“He had a heart complaint and had a by-pass a couple years before he was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis,” said Mary.

“He didn’t seem to be improving after his surgery so they did some tests and then he was sent to a lung specialist.”

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system.

Ireland has the highest incidence of Cystic Fibrosis in the world – approximately 1 in 19 Irish people are said to ‘carry’ one copy of the altered gene that causes

Mary Barry(left) and her friend Caz Dunphy at a recent C.F fundraiser Cystic Fibrosis.

“He was a fit man and went for walks regularly. He had a great character and was wellknown for working in PJ Carrolls,” she said.

“I’ve been doing international walks for charity for ten years and I turned 60 this year and decided I’d do my last walk abroad and I’d do it in memory

of my father.

“We are supposed to go to Bulgaria to do the walk in September but it’s not looking likely now with everything that’s going on with Covid-19.”

According to Mary, donations will make a big difference in the life of a person with Cystic Fibrosis. To date, she has raised over €900

of a €5,000 target.

The donations allow the Association further research, having funding for grants and facilities thus improving their quality of life.

If you would like to help, please donate through the following link https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mary-Barry1?ir.

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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1—Vodka ia a diminutive of the Slavic word voda. What does Voda mean?

2—Which European capital city was built on 14 islands?

3—The name for which form of transport stems from the Latin “for all”?

4—What is the culinary term for cutting food into long thin strips?

5—Which famous German brand was known as “Dassler” back in the 1930s?

6—Literally translated, the name for which kind of street means ‘the arse of a bag’?

7—Which reclusive Hollywood star of both the silent and talking film era was known as ‘The face of the century’?

8—Where in Dundalk would you find Red Cross Hall?

Local family have given 70 years service to the Dundalk Red Cross

9—International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th March each year.

What month does International Man’s Day take place?

10—The Olympic motto is ‘Citius Altius Fortius’. What does each word mean?

The Stinker—Name the three Oscar winners for Best Film in the 1990s with a single word film title.

—this week’s answers—

A Dundalk family have been thanked by the Irish Red Cross for giving 70 years volunteering service between them to their local branch. Sisters Carol and Amanda have over 60 years service between them while Carol’s 17 year old daughter Chloe has been a member of the local Red Cross branch since she was 9.

According to Carol who hails from Glenwood Close she was inspired to join Dundalk Red Cross in 1991 when she was just 12 after seeing her older sister Amanda join up a couple of years earlier.

“Amanda joined in 1988 when she was sixteen as she had seen a girl faint in her class and wanted to be able to help out if something like that ever happened again. She would be always practicing her first aid at home and that got me interested in joining up a couple of years later,” explains Carol.

Amanda Carroll, Chloe Cumiskey and Carol Cumiskey.

“My daughter Chloe joined as a youth member about eight years ago so between the three of us we have now reached 70 years worth of volunteering

to the Dundalk branch of the Red Cross. I’m the area director of youth for Louth and I would be heavily involved with the local cadet unit. We work

with youths aged from four years old to twenty five from Carlingford, Tullyallen, Drogheda and Dundalk. I absolutely adore working with the young people

and I love being a part of the Red Cross.

“We have been busier than ever over the last year with Covid with lots of community work and patient

transfers to hospitals as well as prescription and grocery runs for the eldery or infirm.

I suppose the biggest highlight of my time in the Red Cross was being part of a six person team, which included my sister Amanda, who won the F.A.C.E competition which is a European wide First Aid competition. It was held in Switzerland and each team is asked to respond to simulated accident scenarios during an eight hour test.

We were the first ever Irish team to win it and there hasn’t been an Irish winner since so that shows how difficult it is to win,” noted Carol.

“The Red Cross is a wonderful organisation and for me I just love helping people and I always have done. I’ll be doing this until the day I die and hopefully there are many more days of volunteering still ahead of all three of us,” stated Carol.

1—Water, 2—Stockholm, 3—Bus (Omnibus), 4—Julienne, 5—Adidas (Founded by Adi Dasler), 6—Cul de Sac, 7—Greta Garbo, 8—Jocelyn Street, 9—November (19th), 10—Faster, Higher Stronger. Stinker: Braveheart, Unforgiven and Titanic.

O’Murchú wants hospital car park charges waived for cancer patients News More than €3 million was collected in car parking charges by the RCSI Hospital Group in 2019, including almost €450,000 at the Lourdes and Louth County hospitals, according to new figures obtained by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The biggest income was generated at car parks at the Beaumont Hospital where €1,528,920 was collected in 2019. The next biggest was at Connolly Hospital (€597,400); followed Ruairi O Murchu.

by Our Lady of Lourdes in Drogheda (€401,920); Rotunda (€153,530); the Cavan General (€220,050); Louth County (€80,140)

and Monaghan (€39,240).

Deputy Ó Murchú said he had submitted a parliamentary question about the car parking charges at local hospitals following a meeting with a representative of the Irish Cancer Society.

The Dundalk TD said: ‘During the meeting with the Irish Cancer Society, it was stated that car parking charges are hitting cancer patients very hard as they have to travel regularly for treatment which can involve them being at the hospital for hours.

‘Those who take them to appointments have to wait

with them and the cost of car parking is a charge that quickly mounts up as their treatments progress.

‘In addition, there are many people in the Dundalk and North Louth areas who receive outpatient appointments at the Lourdes and in Beaumont where getting there by public transport is not an option for them so they have to drive.

‘Many of the appointments are early in the morning so they have no other choice than to get a lift or take their own cars.

‘I am particularly

shocked at the huge revenue being generated by the Beaumont Hospital.

Patients are the ones whose cash is making up this massive amount of money.

‘I am backing the campaign by the Irish Cancer Society to have car parking fees waived for those receiving cancer treatment. Many of these people are off work because of their illness and money is extraordinarily tight for them.

‘When I asked the Minister for Health about the situation with car parking charges at hospitals, I was

told: ‘The Programme for Government makes a commitment to introduce a cap on the maximum daily charge for patients and visitors at all public hospitals where possible, and to introduce flexible passes in all public hospitals for patients and their families.

‘The Department of Health and the HSE are currently engaging on this issue’.

‘They need to get a move on before another year goes by and more millions are generated in car parking charges at hospitals, extracted from patients’.

McGreehan welcomes the launch of ‘More Women – Changing the Face of Politics’ research piece undertaken by Women for Election Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed the launch

by Minister Peter Burke of “More Women – Changing the Face of Politics”, a research piece undertaken by Women for Election.

Women for Election is a non-profit organisation that encourages and supports women in Ireland to run for

politics and has been a long-term partner of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, supporting the shared objective of increasing female representation in politics. This research undertaken

by Women for Election forms part of an on-going strategy by the Department to in-

vestigate barriers and solutions which can increase female participation in local government.

Commenting on the research, Senator McGreehan, said ‘Women for Election is such an important organisation, I completed training with the organisation, and it has had such a posi-

tive impact on me.

“Entering politics is not for the faint hearted but is for the determined. It is so important to see research like this published and it now needs to be listened to.

“Quotas are controversial, however they are the most practical way to get more women into elected office. I

feel that they are necessary as politicians make up governments, governments make policy and how can those policies reflect all aspects of our society if they do not have a balance of diversity.

We will never have a fully inclusive society if we don’t have an inclusive Government” concluded the Senator.

in Brief Staying Connected

LMETB are running a ‘Staying Connected Initiative’.

This is to help learn how to use technology. Expressions of interest can be made to Elaine on 042 9364621.

Once expressions of interest are received these are passed onto the IT tutor, who will then make contact to arrange a support call and go through any issues which may need addressing.

Water Outages

Irish Water wish to advise that due to mains repair customers in Ard Easmuinn in Dundalk, and surrounding areas may experience low pressure and/or water outages for short periods from Tuesday, 9th March 2021 until Friday 12th March between 9am and 6pm each day. Irish Water wish to apologise for any inconvenience caused. Please note that as this work is resource and network dependent it may change at short notice.

Historical Society

Erin McGreehan.

If you have any information re dance halls/meeting places in the Cooley Peninsula, please phone 0851833110 with their location.

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

Local construction companies not hopeful of return next month

s n

. t By Tamara O’Connell n nTHE manager of a dDundalk construction ,firm has said that he’s not hopeful that the sconstruction sector will tre-open on a phased bassis next month. d RK Construction oManager Robert Keend an told the Dundalk .Leader that he believes rthe restrictions on the construction sector are nunlikely to be lifted on April 5.

Robert from the Avdenue Road said: “This is the worst I’ve ever aseen, worse than the n2008 crash. I can’t see eus being back on site I until May or June. l “I’m looking forward e to y going back on site. I edon’t think the Governgment is doing a great ejob overall but I can see where the Government is tied.

“I would like to see

7

Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk.

Ph: 042 93 57897

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Construction sector want to return to work next month

the lifting of restrictions on the sector on April 5.”

He added: “I understand the schools had to take priority over construction. I’m waiting patiently for things to restart.

“I’m doing bits and pieces around the house

to keep busy and my lads are on standby.”

Graham Galligan of Graham Galligan Construction said he’s hopeful the restrictions on the sector will be lifted on April 5, depending on case numbers.

“We’ve been af-

fected somewhat. We are still working on an emergency basis doing emergency repairs – roof repairs, plumbing repairs and leaks.

“We’ve been kept going but I’m really looking forward to hearing some positive news on April 5.”

Gardaí take part in Fraud Awareness Week This week is Fraud Awareness Week and An Garda Síochána are asking the public to be aware of the rise in investment fraud scams particularly online. Due to the increased volume of people online during the pandemic these scams are becoming more prevalent and the gardaí have warned people to be careful as well as given tips on how to avoid being scammed.

“An Garda Síochána is asking the public to be aware of the rise in investment fraud scams.

Unfortunately such scams are becoming more prevalent, particularly during the pandemic due to increased online traffic and targeting of the general public by criminals using ever increasingly sophisticated means.

“An investment fraud scam is a fraud where criminals pose as investment managers, promise quick and high rates of return, and simply steal your money. The fraudster uses various investment schemes such as in rare metals, overseas property, and alternative energy schemes such as carbon credits and forestry. Promises are made of fast, enormous returns, once in a lifetime opportunities

and can be seen to be endorsed by reputable business people or celebrities but this is without their knowledge.

“How to avoid Investment Fraud scams?

• If it is too good to be true, it probably is • Do your own research and be wary of wild claims • Always seek independent financial and legal advice before making any investments • Check the various registers on the Central Bank of Ireland’s website • Use regulated investment

firms where possible (Virtual assets are not currently regulated in Ireland) • Do not respond to unsolicited approaches or cold-calls • Don’t click on links for websites that you don’t know • NEVER EVER disclose your bank account passwords or codes • NEVER allow anyone remote access to your computer Further information on investment and other fraud types can be found on www.garda.ie and www.fraudSMART.ie,” concluded the statement.

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Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Leo launches green supports for SMES

“Many small businesses want to “Go Green” and embrace the principles of sustainability, but just don’t know where to start” declared Thomas McEvoy, Louth County Council’s Head of Enterprise. “Well, the good news is that going Green starts at your Local Enterprise Office. We’ve launched a new support programme called Green for Micro” At the launch of Green for Micro on Monday last, as part of Local Enterprise Week, An Tánaiste and

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar set out how it will work. “Qualifying businesses will access two days of intensive mentoring including a sustainability audit and action plan, designed to help “green” your business. The programme is free of charge and is a great first step for any small business.”

During the launch, the audience heard from Pascal Gillard of Jinny’s Bakery in Co. Leitrim. They took part in the pilot Green for Micro programme and are

the first in the country to have accessed this support.

They now have a 5 year plan for greening their business.

But the practical steps that they’ve taken in the first year have reduced their energy consumption, waste production and have saved them over €9,000 in costs.

Read more about their story on www.localenterprise.ie/ green Thomas continues “We’re taking away all the theory and bringing supports directly to businesses. The programme will provide

one-to-one mentoring. Mentors will work with the business owner to examine their own circumstances, working to develop a customised action plan for each business.”

For many businesses, the first steps will be actions that can be done quickly, easily and at little or no cost. For example changes in energy and water use or waste production. These can be quick, easy to implement steps.

But the action plan will also help businesses to identify longer term projects to further reduce their carbon

footprint, environmental impact and costs. For qualifying businesses up to 10 employees, LEO Louth can also provide grant aid of 50% up to a maximum of €2,500, to help support them make the necessary changes.

Thomas concluded “Green for Micro is a free programme for micro enterprises. We also have Green supports available for companies with 10-50 employees.

To download the brochure, watch a video case study and apply, visit localenteprise.ie/ green.”

Green for Micro Business Jinnys Bakery.

Cllr McGeough urges people intimidated by drug pushers to come forward

Cllr Pearse McGeough.

Sinn Féin Councillor Pearse McGeough is urging families who are being intimidated by drug pushers to ‘speak up and speak out’.

Cllr McGeough made the comments at the Joint Policing meeting earlier this month and explained afterwards, “if a son or daughter runs up a drug debt, and it could be anything from a few euro to a large sum and

they are unable to pay, the criminals are targeting the whole family to recoup the debt.”

Cllr McGeough said “Across Louth there are a huge number of families and individuals whose lives are being destroyed by drugs and Mid-Louth is no different. We are now seeing the feud in Drogheda spill over into Ardee and Dunleer and that is very

concerning.

“However, the Gardaí can only act if they are aware of it happening so it is imperative that families come forward and report any intimidation so it can be challenged and dealt with. The Gardaí need our help with this issue as the prevalence of drugs in our communities is at an all-time high and government policy and

funding has not kept pace with the needs of addiction services.”

Cllr McGeough also questioned the Government’s commitment to the issue. “In 2007 funding was approximately €1.4 million.

The drug problem has grown massively since then, yet only just over €900,000 was allocated in 2019. This was despite an exponential growth in demand for

these services, coupled with increases in rent and other operational costs.

Government policy is doing nothing to reduce demand for drugs nor is it offering adequate levels of treatment rehabilitation services for those who may want to take control of their addiction. Furthermore we are seeing younger and younger people becoming involved in the

whole drug scene.”

Cllr McGeough once again said “families are being held to ransom by these drug gangs through no fault of their own but the Gardaí must be informed before anything can be done. The drug problem is not getting any better and isn’t going away anytime soon, but we don’t have to make it easy for them either.”

Redeemer Girls World Book Day

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

Dundalk Brass Band pay their respects to Billy Coyle The founding member of the Dundalk Brass Band passed away last weekend causing much sadness to those who knew and loved him. Billy Coyle was bestowed with the honour of becoming Dundalk Brass Band’s first ever Honorary President last year and upon hearing the sad news of his passing the local organisation paid tribute to their founding member.

“We are in complete shock at Billy’s passing, Our founding member, our president, our solo trumpet player, but most of all our friend. He epitomised the very essence of what our and his band is about. His abundant joy for life was ever present in every thing he did from founding the band over 45 years ago to every performance he played, to mentoring every new member who came into the band and treating everyone with the same respect as if they were founding members themselves.

“His endearing quality was to talk, chat and laugh & many times at himself, the craic was always 90.

His love for football & Dundalk FC never hindered his love for the band, and let it be said - we all loved him, and will forever miss him.

Our sincere condolences to Mary & all of Billy’s extended family and we take this opportunity to thank you for sharing him with his brass family whom we are eternally grateful for having him with us. Rest In Peace Billy, our dear friend and colleague.

Unfortunately due to government restrictions the Dundalk Brass Band were unable to play at Billy’s funeral yesterday but the band’s former professional trumpeter Michael Gaskin played Largo (Going Home) from the New World Symphony as the coffin left the church. He also played ‘Ag Criost An Siol’ at the graveyard.

The band members also acted as pallbearers on his route.

The late Billy Coyle

Local software firm, Intact, expanding workforce to support growth

Local software firm Intact continue to expand their business with the Dundalk firm recently announcing thatthey will create a further 40 jobs this year. A recruitment drive has just been launched with many of the jobs located here in town at the firms headquarters in Blackthorn Business Park

Intact have been one of the big success stories in local business since opening their doors in 1992 and the company continue to grow with the announcement that they will create 40 new jobs throughout this year between their offices in Ireland and the UK. Their Dundalk headquarters will receive most of those jobs and a recruitment campaign to fill those vacancies has just been launched.

Intact, a leading developer of ERP and business management software have seen a continued increase in demand for the company’s solutions from new and existing customers, and are now aiming to expand its talented workforce with the launch of its, ‘Where? Right Here’, recruitment campaign.

The jobs being created will span software development, project management, account

management, software support and more.

Speaking on the announcement, CEO Justin Lawless said: “At Intact, we don’t just develop software, we develop our people too. We’re excited to be recruiting new talent at a time when the economy is facing significant challenges.”

“Our ability to attract talented professionals and offer them a rewarding career path has helped Intact grow rapidly over the last number of years. We are committed to investing in our people to ensure Intact’s growth always supports our vow to help customers operate at their best,” Lawless added.

Headquartered in Dundalk, Intact is one of Ireland and the UK’s leading developers of ERP and business management software for the merchant, wholesale and distribution sec-

tor. The new hires will bring the total staff headcount to approximately 200 across its Irish and UK operations. The company currently has additional offices in Cork and Wicklow, as well as Hemel Hempstead and Warrington in England.

Intact has scooped four consecutive Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards since 2016, recognising the company as one of the country’s 50 fastest growing technology firms. It was also honoured with the “Great Place to Work Award” in 2018, an official recognition of the culture of trust, integrity, and values that have been at the core of Intact’s success since being founded in 1992.

To start your journey with Intact, visit the company’s careers page: www.intactsoftware.com/ careers.

9

Cuchualinn Cycling Club AGM Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Cuchualinn Cycling Club recently held their AGM online and a productive meeting was had, with attendance well up on previous years. The meeting was presided over by acting Chairman Francis Laverty, who on the night was formally nominated and elected as club chairman. A Donegal native, Francis took over the role last year and despite the challenging circumstances brought about by the pandemic, he and his fellow committee members did an excellent job steering the club. Such was the upset caused by the pandemic to

the cycling calendar in 2020 and the ongoing restrictions into 2021 it was decided not to charge club fees for the current year. A decision that was warmly greeted by the members. Additionally tentative plans were discussed to help support the growth of the sport in the town by providing facilities for younger people looking to become involved. This is an area the club is keen to grow, as one of the consequences of the restrictions has been an explosion in the number of young people on bikes.

The various club officers

letters to the editor Dear Editor, You reported that 29.9% of people supported increased government spending on cycle infrastructure. Such spending would guard against climate change and would qualify for a share of the E.U covid recovery package. 37% of this package must go on measures to help the climate and the total budget is for over €637b.

The European Union wants submissions from member states and Ireland should make a submission now. Your article noted the growth of people cycling, and I would ask all cyclists to lobby their local councillors to ensure that the town gets its fair share of the €637b plus budget.

Liam Kieran, Chairman of the Dundalk Cycling Alliance.

gave their reports, however all were considerably shorter than usual due to the absolute scarcity of events in the previous twelve months. Children’s Safeguarding Officer Philip Kerley did make a special presentation to Kevin Dolan, whom after 56 years involved in the club was stepping down.

Kevin has been on both sides of the table having started racing with the club in 1964. His road and track racing career was incredibly successful, which saw him win 27 senior national medals, alongside numerous race wins, including

two editions of the prestigious Tour of Ulster. He also rode in Ireland’s premier cycling event The Rás on six occasions, including being a member of the first Irish National Team in 1968. He also raced internationally on the track in the green jersey in 1969 in the Fete do l`Humanité event held in Paris.

Following his retirement from racing, Kevin was involved with the club firstly as a coach and later on the committee. He brought many a cyclist to races throughout the country as well as manag-

Seniors card offers discounts for OAPs

Active Retirement Ireland have just launched a seniors card which can be used to get discounts in many shops around Dundalk and surrounding areas. The discount initiative is available to holders of the current Active Retirement Ireland membership card and will provide members with access to thousands of discounts locally.

With the help of Pearse Park media more and more local businesses have signed up to the discount scheme which encourages seniors to spend

locally when the restrictions are lifted. Two of the local businesses participating in the scheme are Hidden Hearing on Dublin St. and Specsavers in Eimear Court with both outlets offering a 10% off all clinics.

Many hotels will also be offering senior citizens reduced rates once the Covid pandemic is behind us. To apply for a seniors card please send a stamp addressed envelope to Gerry Guerin, Seniorscard, PO Box 1095, Naas, Co. Kildare. The seniors discount card is a free service.

ing teams in the six day Junior Tour of Ireland and The Rás. Always helping out at the club’s annual events he also directed the innovative Tain Team Tour, before going on to organise leisure trips around Ireland and abroad. In 2010 he even found the time to write a book chronicling the history of cycling in the town and county. He is sure to still be seen at many a cycling event in the future as following the exploits of his own children on the bike, his Grandchildren having now shown an aptitude for the sport.

Kevin Dolan 1968, he was sponsored by the original Superquinns when Fergal Quinn opened his first supermarket in Dundalk.

Upcoming Library Events LMETB Laegis (Local Adult Education & Guidance Service) in association with Louth Libraries will hold an information event via Zoom on Education, Training & Upskilling Opportunities available to adult. Looking for your next job or a career change?

Upskill while in your job. Join this free Zoom event on Thursday 11th of March at 12 noon. To book your place email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.

This is an LMETB event for Work Matters at Your Library.

Louth Library service is hosting a Scratch Coding Workshop with the Code Lab. This fun creative coding workshop will introduce children to coding with scratch. Learn how

to create your own animations and games. Explore new ideas in this fun coding language. The workshop is suitable for children age 8 to 12 years.

Numbers are limited so booking is essential. To book email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie Louth Library Service is hosting a Zoom workshop on Feeding Your Children and Yourself- Saturday 27th of March at 12 noon with Nutritionist – Foodee Denise Wogan The Healthy Ireland event will focus on healthy meal planning for all the family with tasty food choices and practical tips that make healthy eating interesting and easy. To book email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.

Redeemer Boys World Book Day

Liam Miller (Junior Infants) and Marco Filipetto (Senior Infants with School Principal Michelle Murray.

Gerard Reid and Oisin O’Keefe 3rd class

Jayden Fisher from Class 1

Callum McGeown (2nd class)

Dylan Byrne-Smith (Class 2)

Luke Macken (1st class)

11

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

Family Notices novena

novena

THANKSGIVING

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 ydays. Promise publication and lfavours will be granted. (Never nknown to fail). A.N. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M.T. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). T.C. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M.S.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). R.McD. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). L.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). P.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). P.J.

Prayer To The Holy Spirit Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads, so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you even in spite of all material illusion. I wish to be with you in eternal Glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. K.S.

Louth people remain compliant with regards to travel restrictions AN estimated 63.8 per cent of the population in Co Louth stayed local (within 10km) during the week ending 25 February 2021 according to the Staying Local Indicator (SLI), a seven-day rolling average.

Louth had the third highest level of compliance in the country behind Dublin in first place at 77.4 per cent, and Wicklow in second place at 66.5 per cent.

This reflects Dublin’s urbanised nature and access to services.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

planning

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

als/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085840-7707

Louth County Council—WuXi Biologics Ireland Limited intend to apply for retention permission and permission for development at this site at Mullagharlin and Haynestown townlands, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The overall site is accessed off the R215 The Southern Link Road and is generally south and east of Mullagharlin Road, north of the Marlbog Road and generally north and west of the Brookfield residential development. The application seeks amendments to the permitted development (Louth County Council Reg. Ref. 08/822, which has been extended in duration under Reg. Ref. 18/187 and subsequent permission Reg. Ref. 18/817) and relate to the medium to large scale biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility, referred to as Site 2 in the planning permission. The overall GFA of buildings on Site 2 is proposed to increase by 513m2 from 54,232m2 to 54,745m2.

Permission is sought to retain elements of the under construction development and permission to complete and reconfigure other elements as proposed in the application documents, as summarised below. Permission—Revised entrance security gates; Corporate backlit signage to the northeast corner of Building DK2; Revised landscape proposals. Retention Permission—1. Revisions to elevational treatments and building configurations; 2. Revisions to entrance details; 3. Addition of substation and switchroom in place of secondary security building and second substation; 4. Revisions to parking, internal roads, yards and plant and services layouts; 5. Gas reducing station; 6. Additional cooling plant and associated stair core to Building DK4; 7. Addition of electric vehicle charging points. The application relates to development which comprises, or is for the purposes of, an activity requiring an integrated pollution prevention and control licence and waste licence. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

articles for sale Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have, Sofas from €299, Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

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

CD Logs—Kiln Dried Ash/Oak & Birch, Weekly Deliveries to Dundalk & surrounding areas. Newry Co. Down Mob 00 44 77 6040 3254 or 048 30269632 www.cdlogs. com.

articles wanted

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

RTE Toy Show funding available

LOCAL registered children’s charities interested in applying for funding from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal can do so now.

The opening date for applications was March 5 and the closing date for applications is April 16. The grants will be awarded in June 2021 with work set to begin in July 2021.

Organisations can only apply once to one of the strands for funding between €25,000 and €150,000. For more information visit www. communityfoundation.ie.

Wanted—Dundalk FC European Ticket stubs 1980s & 1970s, especially v Wettingen & Red Star Belgrade. Also chasing Rep of Ireland Ticket stubs 1990s back.

Contact Ger 086 2630363.

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com.

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087225-9799.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €65 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices.ie.

HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning.

Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie.

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

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 Remov-

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

Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling.

All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance.

For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

MOBILE CHIROPODY in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry, MCHs, HCPC reg. Tel 087 192 4794.

ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues.

Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827.

Carpentry & Joinery maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact—Eugene 086-607-1702.

CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.

Retired reliable local man with Safe Pass available for Painting & Decorating, Internal and External,30 years’ experience, also grass cutting, strimming.

General Garden Maintenance and Garage Clearance. Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472.

Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified.

Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633.

Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com.

Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

Plasterer Available—Professional tradesman, all plastering repairs, rooms skimmed, small to medium size jobs, first class plastering. Keen prices, free quotes Tel 087 3525652.

PROFESSIONAL GRASS CUTTING— Housing estates, large lawns, hedge cutting. Tel. 083 026 5245.

ONLINE MATHS GRINDS—Covidfriendly one-to-one tuition via Zoom.

Visit www.grindacademy.ie for details or call/text 083 087 4223.

VOLUNTEER DRIVER—Available to transport Cancer patients to and from Hospital/Clinic. Highly experienced in this care. Reference available. Fuel contribution requested. Tel Carmel 0044-7923192799.

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

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Gardening

Electrical

Forklifts

CCTV

CCTV Systems l Automated Gates l Access Control l Burglar Alarms l

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Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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recent deaths Plumbing

John Kerr Lacknagreagh, Kilkerley, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully in the presence of his sister Geraldine and brother in law Jim McGee, at their residence in Aclint, Co. Louth.

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law Patrick, grandchildren Mark, Michelle,Laura, Jason, Matthew, Luke and Cuán, nephews, nieces, extended family relatives, neighbours and friends.

leen will be sadly missed by her sons, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

and Martha, sister Brenda McArdle and brother Jackie. Beloved husband of Teresa and loving father of Sean and Martina, grandfather of Josh, Tiffany and Zach, uncle of Chris and Daniel Clarke. He will be sadly missed by his wife, son, daughter, daughter in-law Nana, son in-law Harvey, grandchildren, brothers in-law, sister in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and wide circle of family and friends in London and his home town Dundalk.

Marcella Flood (née McGahon), Aoife DOWLING (née Higgins), Noel QUIGLEY Hyde Park and Drogheda Road, Togher, peacefully Red Barns Road, Dundalk, Louth. formerly of Barronstown, HackDundalk, Louth. at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Peacefully surrounded by her fam- ballscross, Drogheda, surrounded by her fam- ily at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Unexpectedly at his residence. ily. Marcella, beloved wife of John Predeceased by her parents Hugh Predeceased by his wife Briege and loving mother of Brendan, Ro- and Mary, father in-law John, (née Crossan), parents Owen and sette, Jennifer, Ruth and Alan. Pre- Beloved wife of David and loving Cathleen, brothers Seamus and deceased by her dad Johnny and mum of Jack and Tom. She will be Patrick. He will be sadly missed her mum Marcella, brother Sean, sadly missed by her loving hus- by his daughters Clare and Niamh, Philomena (Mena) Magee (née son Timothy and daughter Teresa. band, sons, brother Ciarán, sisters brothers Willie, Peter, Brendan and Neasy), Dunleer, Louth. Peacefully Sadly missed by her husband, sons, Fionnuala Sheelan and Gráinne Eamonn, sisters Marie and Patricia, at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, daughters, grandchildren Mar- O’Keeffe, brothers in-law Brian, son in-law Jaime, Niamh’s partner Drogheda. Mena, beloved wife of tin, Nicole, Carly, Natasha, Aaron, Denis and Shane, sisters in-law Stephen, grandchildren Reuben the late Paddy and loving mother Ryan, Nathan, Christian, Charlie Cora and Ruth, uncle Michael, aunt and Stanley, brothers and sisters of Sharon (Kennedy). Sadly missed and Phoebe, sisters Marie, Carmel Theresa, mother in-law Ethna, in-law, nephews, nieces, extended by her daughter, son-in-law Joe, and Anne, brothers-in-law, sisters- nephews, nieces, extended family family relatives, neighbours and grandchildren Patrick, Niamh and Aoife, brothers Michael, Tommy, in-law, sons-in-law, daughters- relatives, neighbours and wonder- friends. in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, ful friends.

Edward (Ned) Keaskin Eng- Martin, Colm and Dermot, sisters neighbours and friends.

Colm Donlon Priorland Grove, land and formerly of, Annagas- Sally, Cora, Attracta, Bernadette, Mary Carney 9 Lissiniska, Bo- Dundalk, Louth. Retired Customs san, Louth. Peacefully at home in Deirdre, Marion and Siobhan, hola, Co. Mayo and late of Dundalk, Officer. Peacefully in the pres- Bolton, Lancashire, England and brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, Co. Louth. Predeceased by her hus- ence of his family. Pre-deceased formerly of Strand Road, Anna- relatives, neighbours and friends. band Martin, son John and son in by his beloved wife Adeline and gassan. Predeceased by his wife ANDREW CLEMENT ROBERT law Gerard Mc Nally. Mary will be adored sons Kevin and Colum. Frances (née Guinane), Galway, (Clem) BELL Antrim / Togher, sadly missed by her loving fam- Cherished father of Niall and Aod- sister Eileen, brothers Patrick and Louth. Passed away (suddenly), ily, son Peter, daughters Margaret, han. Colm will be sadly missed John and parents Terence and as the result of a tragic accident, Denise and Rita, grandchildren and remembered with love by his Brigid. Deeply regretted by his much loved brother of Dorothy Adam, Sally, Stephen, Caoimhe, sons, daughter-in-law Martina his sons Dennis and John, daughter- Butcher and of the late Stella Grace, Séan, Lorcan, Niamh, Sam adored grandchildren Ben, Aoibhe in-law Carol and grandson Dean, Armstrong and Tom Bell. Also and Daniel, sons in law Adrian and and Anna, brother Tom (Longford) brother Leo, sisters Mary McArdle sadly missed by brother in law Donal, daughter in law Siobhán, extended family, neighbours and (Shelagh), Rosaleen Fox (Oram), John, and sister in law Aileen, Cepta Flynn (Clonmore) and Peggy and was an affectionate and witty her sisters, brothers, nieces, neph- friends. ews, relatives, neighbours and Anna BRADY (née Rafferty), Mill- Keaskin (Ardee), brothers-in-law, uncle of Joan Thompson and Ian, many friends. grange, Greenore, Louth. Peace- sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, Sarah and Keith Armstrong and grand-nephews, grand-niece and Paul SHEELAN Mountbagnal, fully, in the dedicated care of the relatives and friends.

Riverstown, Dundalk, Louth. Fol- staff of Our Lady of Lourdes Hos- Kevin FINNEGAN Mooretown, cousins. Sadly missed by a loving, lowing an accident. Beloved hus- pital, Drogheda. Beloved wife of Dromiskin, Louth. Peacefully in caring community of friends and band of Praima, dad of Peter, son Joseph and dear mother of Mary, Louth County Hospital. 4th March neighbours.

of the late Patsy and Gussie and Bernard, Oliver (USA), Aidan, Ni- 2021. Kevin, beloved husband of Joseph (Joe) MILLS Seatown, brother of Jacqueline, Alan and all, Conor and the late Carmel. She Charlotte (née Dullaghan) dear Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully in his Shirley. He will be sadly missed will be sadly missed by her loving father of Pat and Gillian grandad 96th year in the loving care of Our by his sorrowing wife, son, sisters, husband, daughter, sons, sister of Colleen, Leo, Craig, Leah, Jenna, Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Predebrother, brother-in-law Johnny, Maura Farrell, 16 grandchildren, 2 Conal, and Aaron and brother of ceased by his parents Owen and nieces Amy, Laura and Aoibheann, great-grandchildren, relatives and Jemmy and the late Paddy, Rose, Elizabeth, brothers Ownie and Eileen, Benny, Mary, and Marga- Gerry, sister Madge. He will be grandnephew Donnacha, aunts, friends uncles, relatives and friends.

Sean BENNETT Mount Avenue., ret.Kevin will be sadly missed by sadly missed by family, friends and Peter GRANT Glenmore Park, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully in his wife, son, daughter, grandchil- neighbours.

Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, Louth / Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. 4th dren, daughter-in-law Samantha, Oliver (Ollie) McGEOWN New Down. Suddenly, at his residence. March 2021. Sean beloved son son-in-law Leo, nephews, nieces, Road, Bellurgan, Dundalk, Louth.

Peacefully, at his residence. BeBeloved husband of Eileen (née of the late Patrick and Gretta and relatives and friends.

McArdle) and dear dad of Joey and brother of Maura, Gretta, and the Margaret (Peggy) Smith (née loved husband of Margaret (née John, He will be sadly missed by late Roisin and Briege. Sean will Hernon), Annagassan, Louth. Thompson). Predeceased by his his loving wife, sons, sisters Ita, Pa- be sadly missed by his sisters, Peacefully at Our Lady of Lourdes parents Patrick and Ethel (late of tricia, Kay, Veronica, May and Jose- nephew, nieces, grandnephews, Hospital, Drogheda. Peggy, be- Clady, Co. Armagh), sister Lizzie. phine, daughters in-law Nadine grandnieces, relatives and friends. loved wife of the late Noel. Pre- Ollie will be sadly missed by his and Lorraine, brothers and sisters Kathleen TENNYSON (née deceased by her son Noel, sisters loving wife, brother James, sister in-law, extended family relatives, Deery), Grey Acre Road, New- Patricia Meehan (Dromiskin), Mary Mary-Bridget, brothers and sisters neighbours and friends. townbalregan., Dundalk, Louth. Kearney (Kilsaran) and brother in-law, nephews, nieces, extended Mary-Ann (Moya) GERAGHTY Peacefully in the wonderful care Oliver Kinahan (Dromiskin). Sadly family, relatives, wonderful neigh(née Monaghan), Sandfield Gar- of Dealgan House, Nursing Home. missed by her daughters Caroline bours and friends. dens, Blackrock, Louth / Belmullet, 5th March 2021. Kathleen (in her and Lorraine, sons Shane, Paul, Billy COYLE St. Nicholas` Avenue, Mayo. Peacefully surrounded by 96year) beloved wife of the late Brendan and Emmet, grandchil- Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully, at her family at Our Lady of Lourdes John adored mother of Oliver, Leo, dren, great-grandchildren, sisters home. Beloved husband of Mary, Hospital. Beloved wife of John Catherina, Mary, Sean, Paddy, Hen- Alice (Ellis) and Anne (Crosby), dear dad of Kathleen, son of the and dear mother of Michael, No- ry and Elizabeth, granny of Alan, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, late William and Mary Alice and reen and John, Predeceased by Ian, Thomas, Clare, Ruth, Jamie, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, brother of Alice (Clarke) and the her parents Michael and Mary- Glenn, Gillian, Aisling, John, Pop- nephews, nieces, relatives, neigh- late Mary (McGuinness), Robert, Oliver and Jimmy. He will be sadly Ann, brother Seán, Moya will py, Amy and Rebecca great-granny bours and friends. be sadly missed by her loving of Hallam, Annie, George, Robert, Tom Moran London and late of missed by his sorrowing wife, husband, sons, daughter, sisters Ray, Dylan, Grace, James and Han- Alphonsus Villas, Dundalk, Louth. daughter, sister, grandchildren Breege and Anne, daughters in- nah, and sister of the late Tom, Peacefully, at home in London. Sinead, David and Amanda, nephlaw Mary and Kathleen, son in- Packie, May and Theresa. Kath- Predeceased by his parents John ews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Seachtain na Gaeilge at DkIT

By Tamara O’Connell

DUNDALK Institute of Technology (DkIT) celebrates Seachtain na Gaeilge with a new jam-packed programme of virtual workshops, performances and activities taking place from 1-16 March 2021, aimed at encouraging students and staff to polish off their ‘cupla focail’ and embrace the Irish language and culture.

Events include a Pop-Up Gaeltacht with Irish Classes, Poetry classes, Friendly MeetUps, Literature Night, a Concert, Voices of Youth. DkIT’s Irish Language Office has also teamed up with the DkIT De Chastelain Library to celebrate International Women’s Day 2021, Monday 8th March, bringing the best of Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill and Lady Gregory to the campus community with readings and discussions featuring local legends, placenames and surnames. Bígí Linn!

Seachtain na Gaeilge 2021 commenced on Wednesday 3rd

March with the promotion of the great Irish proverb ‘Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí’or ‘Praise the young and they will flourish’. The De Chastelain Library has launched a social media campaign using the hashtag, #Gaeilge21DkIT to share different Irish proverb every day until 17th March. International students and staff are encouraged to post translations of the proverbs in their own languages and share them via their own channels using the hashtag.

Coinciding with Seachtain na Gaeilge, the Institute is also pleased to announce the launch of its first ever Irish Language Society. The society is open to students of all levels and is dedicated to promotion the Irish language via various social events throughout the academic year. Registration to the society will be promoted throughout the festival period.

Speaking today at the launch of Seachtain na Gaeilge Virtual Programme, Eamonn De Barra, DkIT Irish Language Officer added:

“The Irish international festival, Seachtain na Gaeilge, is the largest celebration of our native language and culture taking place in Ireland and in many other countries each year. DkIT has a long established reputation for supporting the festival and the promotion of Irish language, arts and culture in general.

“I am delighted to continue it this tradition with a new virtual programme in 2021 and I’d like to thank colleagues across the Institute, in particular the De Chastelain Library and the Sports & Societies office for helping us develop such an eclectic programme of activities.

“With everything from language classes, quizzes, concerts, literary events and more, there is certainly an event to suit everyone’s tastes.”

A full programme of events is available via the DkIT website.

For more information about the Seachtain na Gaeilge programme or the Irish Language Society, please contact debarrae@dkit.ie.

World Book Day Redeemer Girls School celebrate World Book Day last Thursday. Pupils took part both at home and in the school.

Christine hoping to erect a memorial for locals lost on the Lusitania

Dundalk woman Christine Larkin is hoping to get in touch with relatives of local men who perished on the Lusitania ship after it sank on May 7th 1915 when torpedoed by a German submarine.

Christine has spent years trying to gather information about her grandfather James Larkin who was one of a number of local men on the ship the night it sank.

Christine has discovered that her grandfather worked in the engine room of the Lusitania as a greaser.

James grew up in Rathcor, Riverstown in North Louth and was living in Liverpool working as a marine fireman before he began his job in the engine room of the Lusitania.

The ship was twelve miles off the coast of Kinsale when it was torpedoed by the Germans who suspected that the ship was full of ammunition. Within 20 minutes, the vessel sank into the Celtic Sea. Of 1,959 passengers and crew, 1,198 people were drowned.

According to Christine at least seven engineering crew were from the Dundalk area. She is

now hoping to make contact with relatives of those men who died on the Lusitania with the hope of forming a committee to erect some sort of memorial in North Louth in their honour.

Anybody who would like to discuss the idea of creating a memorial to the local men who perished on the Lusitania can contact Christine on 0831161297.

Driving on wet roads Travelling in wet conditions is hardly out of the norm for Irish drivers, but it still comes with a range of dangers. If you must travel on a wet day, follow our advice below to make your journey as safe as possible.

Slow down—Reducing your speed is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe on wet roads. It can take roughly twice as long to stop a vehicle on a wet surface, so allow extra space between you and other road users.

Remember that driving quickly through surface water is dangerous, as there’s a risk of aquaplaning – that’s when your tyre treads fill with water, losing contact with the road and reducing your steering control. If the steering feels ‘light’, you may be aquaplaning. If so, keep the wheels straight, ease off the accelerator and allow your speed to reduce naturally – don’t brake.

Beware of flooding— Never attempt to drive through standing water unless you’re sure it’s not too deep for your vehicle.

If you do judge it to be safe, drive at the centre of the road, as that

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

is its highest point. Drive slowly in a low gear to keep your engine revs high. Afterwards, continue to drive slowly and tap the brake pedal a few times – this helps to dry the brakes. Never drive through fast-moving water; your car could be swept away.

Visibility—A heavy downpour can really affect your visibility on the roads – if you’re struggling to see other road users, they’re most likely struggling to see you too.

Turn on your dipped headlights as this will improve your visibility and helps others to see you too.

Take particular care when travelling behind large vehicles as they can generate spray that will reduce

042 9331515/086 2559201

your visibility. As a rule of thumb, stay far back enough so that you can see their mirrors.

Be mindful of other road users—Similar hazards present to cyclists and motorcyclists when travelling on a wet day. Pedestrians may need to move out from the path or roadside to avoid puddles.

For that reason, it’s especially important to allow extra space between you and vulnerable road users on a wet day. As mentioned above, visibility can be massively affected in wet conditions. Keep in mind that your vehicle may also generate spray which will affect other road users’ visibility. Slowing down will help to reduce this.

Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 10th March 2021