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Clergy unhappy with restrictions Page 6

Local heroes receive awards Page 8

Sleepout for Simon goes virtual

Wednesday, 11th November, 2020. Vol. 13, Issue 46 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Paul Byrne

This week the Simon Community announced that they will not be able to have their annual sleep out fundraiser on Market Square due to COVID restrictions and instead they will be going virtual. The local organisation is asking the people of Dundalk and surrounding communities to swap their bed for a sleeping bag and forego their usual comforts for just one night, to help raise much needed funds for people who are homeless.

The Dundalk Sleep Out began in 2013 and was the brainchild of Greenacres couple Maeve and Terry Curtis who wanted to do something to help the worsening crisis of homelessness in our community. The sleep out has proved a huge success and since that first event in 2013 the couple have helped raise over €70000 for the Dundalk Simon Community. According to Maeve the need to tackle the homeless situation around Dundalk is greater now than ever before.

Continued on Page 2

Local man wins US Presidential Election!

Lucy Murphy, Andrea McKevitt and John Owen Finnegan celebrate as distant cousin Joe Biden becomes President Elect of the USA. Full Story on Page 2.

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Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Sleepout for Simon goes virtual

From Page 1 “We wanted to help the Simon initially as we wanted to do something positive for our town and we decided that we would help the Simon given the problem of homelessness was so bad back in 2013. We went to the Simon community and we told them we would like to organise a sleep out at Market Square to try and raise some money for them.

They were delighted with the offer and thankfully the event was a big success with the brilliant people of Dundalk getting fully behind the initiative and supporting us with donations which all went straight back to the Simon. Since then we have returned to the Square each year and I believe we have raised in the region of €70000 in total to date,” explained Maeve.

“We have slept out in all kinds of weather including two storms with 2016 and 2018 be-

ing particularly ferocious. I can’t overstate how good the people of Dundalk have been each year when we do this fundraiser. From the people who donate, to the local businesses who brought us over tea and pizza, to pupils in Colaiste Rís who went fundraising for us in the Marshes and to the Marshes itself for allowing us use that space it’s been a real community effort,” stated Maeve.

“Unfortunately, the need today to help the homeless is as big if not bigger than ever and although we can’t sleep out at Market Square this year because of Covid restrictions we are asking people to do a virtual sleep out be it in their back garden or in a sleeping bag on the floor in their house. You can ask your friends and family to donate a few euro where possible and you can set up a fundraising page on www.justgiving.ie or else do it

the old fashioned way and get a sponsorship card from the Simon Community office in Dundalk. Unfortunately the need to help the homeless is greater than ever and I know that five people have died in recent months on the streets of Ireland which maybe didn’t get as much coverage as normal due to Covid.

“There are people out there who may be feeling isolated at home because of Covid and this is what it feels like the whole time if you are homeless. I miss contact with friends and family and I can’t give my mother a hug at the moment but I know that this will end. If you are homeless you have these feelings every day of the year and we need to help these people in any way we can,” urged Maeve.

Sponsorship cards are available in the Dundalk Simon Community office. Call 0429339583 for further details.

Maeve and Terry at last year’s Simon sleepout.

Celebrations in Carlingford to mark Joe Biden’s election success When Owen Finnegan left the Cooley Peninsula in 1849 to start a new life in America he could hardly have known that 171 years later his greatgreat grandson would be voted into the highest office in the land. On November 7th four days after election day that is exactly what came to pass as Joe Biden became President-Elect of the United States after defeating Donald Trump following an often bitterly contested election.

Owen landed in New

Lucy Murphy, Andrea McKevitt and John Owen Finnegan celebrate as distant cousin Joe Biden becomes President Elect of the USA.

York before finding employment as a shoemaker and a year later he brought the rest of his family over where the Finnegan’s began their new life as a family.

Locals in Carlingford marked the election of the 46th President of the United States of America on Sunday morning as the village celebrated with music from the Carlingford Pipe Band as well as Zoe Conway and John McIntyre.

Biden who visited North Louth in 2016 met up with lots of distant cousins from the Carlingford/Cooley area and many of those were in attendance on Sunday morning as they celebrated the Pennsylvanian native’s victory.

One of those cousins was Andrea McKevitt a local Louth County Councillor who spoke of the joy and euphoria

around Carlingford during the celebrations on Sunday morning.

“My mam was a Finnegan before she got married and is related to Joe Biden so we were delighted to mark the occasion of his election on Sunday. There is a great local connection towards Joe especially since he visited this area four years ago when he was Vice-President and we are hoping he comes back again soon only this time it will be as President,” stated Andrea. “My two uncles met him on that visit when he stopped off at Lily Finnegan’s and it would be great for people in North Louth if he comes back for a second visit,” she added.

Meanwhile the lead organiser of the Irish for Biden campaign has said US president-elect Joe Biden has a “remark-

able” love for Ireland.

According to Irish for Biden campaign lead organiser, Paul Allen, there is great potential to develop tourism around the Democratic candidate’s links to Co Louth.

“I think it was very interesting to watch.

Everyone is used to an election night but it turned into an election week,” he said.

“You don’t have to have a big love of politics to find it interesting.

We think we have problems in Ireland with our electoral system but as an Irish person it’s not for me to tell America what to do.”

He added: “Normally there is a peaceful transition of power but the world is fearful now about what might happen in January. We’ve had enough. The last four years have been

tough. Joe Biden’s cousins were all out in force to celebrate his victory.

He’s very special. I’ve built up a good relationship with US presidents over the years and worked closely with Clinton in particular.

“Joe Biden is going to bring everyone under the same banner.

If you’re a Trump sup-

porter, you are still an American.”

Paul continued: “I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the people of Carlingford for all of their hard work in terms of the campaign. It really brought people together and re-ignited family values which might have been forgotten in these busy times.”

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Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

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Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Crosscause annual appeal AN Omeath man is appealing for donations to be made to a Romanian care home which looks after children with special needs.

Ciaran Phillips told the Dundalk Leader that the collection started ten days ago and to date a container and a half has been filled.

“We put out the feelers yesterday to see if someone would donate a truck. BM Transport donated a truck and trailer and Eugene Maguire in Cooley has given a second truck,” said Ciaran.

“The response has been amazing. We are absolutely blown away because people have been brilliant.

“People are donating everything from food stuffs, to medical care and household items such as shampoo and clothes.”

He added: “Over 3,000 shoeboxes have also been donated for the kids. It was organised by a girl called

Conor Hughes and Ciaran Phillips are appealing for donations for Crosscause charity

Mitigation Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MAEDF) Louth and Meath Educational and Training Board (LMETB) wishes to invite applications from Community Education Groups in the Louth/Meath area for the above funding stream. The purpose of this fund is to support Community Education and to improve engagement by disadvantaged learners with education and training.

Grants are awarded to qualifying applications by LMETB and funded by SOLAS and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

Application forms and further details are available on the LMETB website www.lmetb.ie.

Alternatively you should email bwilliams@lmetb.ie for a copy of the form.

Completed application forms must be received by 1.00pm Tuesday 17th November 2020.

Fiona Kelly. I’d like to thank each and every person who donated whether it was shoes or spuds.”

The donated goods will be given to a Crosscause care home called Casa Bridget, which houses special needs children from the old orphanages in Romania.

There is also a school next to Casa Bridget and disadvantaged children from the area can use the facilities in Casa Bridget after school including having a hot meal there.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Barry Connolly from Omeath because he’s driving one of the trucks out

and he has done a lot of work in terms of logistics.”

Ciaran and the team are collecting until Friday. If you would like to donate you can contact Ciaran Phillips on 087-6441749 or drop it off at the AOH hall in Blackrock with Conor Hughes or Danny Hughes’ music shop.

One truck is set to depart from Dundalk on Friday and a second truck is set to depart for Romania on Monday next.

It will take approximately six days to get there then the truck will be unloaded and the items distributed turning it into a twoweek round trip.

Arrests made in Dundalk over €14.6m money laundering scheme Gardai made two arrests on Monday as part of Operation Joggle which is an ongoing investigation into a West African Organised Crime Gang suspected of being involved in a money laundering scheme with an estimated value of €14.6m over a two year period. A statement from An Gardaí stated that these were the sixth and seventh arrests in relation to this operation.

“As part of Operation Joggle, Gardaí attached to the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) have arrested one man (late 20s) and one woman (late 20s) this morning, Monday 9th November, 2020.

These arrests are part of Operation Joggle

which is an ongoing investigation into a West African Organised Crime Gang (OCG) that is suspected of being involved in trade-based money laundering to the estimated value of €14.6 million over a two year period.

The man is currently detained at Dundalk Street Garda Station under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007. The woman is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Dundalk Garda Station.

These are the sixth and seventh arrests in relation to this ongoing operation.

Investigations are ongoing,” read the statement.

Dundalk limp across the line to secure European qualification Dundalk FC

Dundalk FC limped over the line as they secured qualification for Europe next season but they had Finn Harps to thank as the Donegal side beat Waterford to ensure the Lilywhites remained in third spot despite a 2-0 loss at home to Sligo Rovers.

It was a poor performance from Dundalk in what was their final league game of this truncated season and the defeat left manager Filippo Giovagnoli with a league record of three wins, three draws and three defeats since he took on the job back in August. The Italian will point to the fact that his main priority when taking over was to guide Dundalk into the Europa League Group Stages a feat which he accomplished.

Having performed admirably in Austria last Thursday evening where they were narrowly beaten 4-3 by Rapid Vienna Dundalk returned to league action knowing a draw would secure European qualification for the eighth year in succession. However, goals in each half from Jesse Devers and Ronan Coughlan were enough to give the Westerners all three points. The home side then had an anxious wait to see if Waterford would steal a late win against Finn Harps but much to the relief of all Dundalk supporters Ollie Horgan’s side held on for a win to ensure Giovagnoli’s side would finish third.

Next up for Dundalk is an FAI Cup quarter final match away to Bohemians on Friday 20th November. Six days later they will resume their Europa League campaign with a home match against last weeks opponents Rapid Vienna. The game will take place in the Aviva Stadium.

It promises to be an interesting off season with regards to contract talks with no less than eighteen players out of contract when the season ends next month.

Blackrock Tidy Towns urge public to clean up after themselves

THE Chairman of Blackrock Tidy Town’s is appealing to late-night revellers to buy takeaway food and drink and take it home.

Speaking to the Dundalk Leader, John Horan made his remarks after more than 100 people gathered in groups along the promenade in Blackrock last Saturday night.

“There was no notion of social distancing. There was drinking and takeaways and cigarette butts left strewn on the ground,” he said.

“It’s legitimate for people to sell products but it’s not legal to consume alcohol in a public place.

“A lot of residents are very annoyed about it because of the drinking in a public place and breaching the Covid regulations.”

He added: “We feel for businesses. They are trying to find ways to survive and they have to pay rates and their taxes.

“But a lot of alcohol was being sold from a number of premises to mostly young adults. They were mostly well behaved but the guards were out and they did what they could.

“But the guards can’t be there all the time so I suggest people buy food and drink but take it home.”

John continued: “There are ferocious problems with people stuffing the bins and filling them up.

“The council needs to increase the number of collections. They should be emptied on a regular basis, particularly on the weekends.

“We don’t have the resources to do it all. We are already stretched. Our volunteers are of an age where they need to be careful and we have to be cognisant and not put people in danger.”

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

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Angler Association pay respects to Val Members of Dundalk Salmon Angler Association form a Guard of Honour for their President, Mr. Val Wynne outside the Holy Family Church in September last. Val was the last of the founding members of the Association and a life- long member. He contributed to the development of the Association and was a past Chairman and Secretary. Val’s passion for the Association was legendary and he had many friends along the river bank and beyond. May Val Rest In Peace.

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

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‘Clergy deeply unhappy with church Covid restrictions’—Fitzpatrick

Independent TD Peter Fitzpatrick has spoken of many priest’s frustrations in relation to current lockdown restrictions which state that mass cannot be celebrated in churches. He also asked for assurances from Minister for Justice Helen McEntee that priests would not face criminal charges should they celebrate mass in a public setting.

“I would like to raise the issue of priests and the likelihood of them facing criminal charges should they celebrate mass in public settings,” stated Deputy Fitzpatrick while addressing the Minister of Justice.

“This issue has been raised before but I do not believe we have received any clear guidelines. From speaking with clergy, I know they are deeply unhappy with the current situation. Some have told me they believe the Government has a totalitarian approach to the current situation. They feel that freedom is slowly being stripped away. One priest expressed the view that priests can now be jailed for celebrating mass in public for the first time since the penal laws in force during British rule were repealed in 1829.

“He said the Government is orchestrating an attack on priests and the church. As Deputies will appreciate, it took a lot for the priest to say that to

me. The bottom line is that the church and priests believe we are all being denied our constitutional right to practice our faith in public.

“In making that point, the priest stated that when Ireland moved to level 3 restrictions several weeks ago we were the only country in Europe where public worship was prohibited.

No other country in Europe adopted the extreme measure of denying people the right to attend public mass or preventing a priest from celebrating a mass in public. Only Wales has followed us in closing its churches and it only adopted that approach for two weeks as part of its firebreak approach.

“It is important to note that the churches went far beyond what was required to ensure worshippers were safe. As proof of this point, I understand that not one case of Covid-19 has occurred as a result of someone attending mass. All churches are closed, yet it is clear that churches were one of the safest places to be, outside of the family home, in respect of Covid-19. Priests have made the point that while churches were closed, it was still possible for people to go to beauty salons, hairdressers and mingle with hundreds of other people in large supermarkets. People are now faced with another five weeks of being unable to

attend public mass and being denied the sacraments,” added Fitzpatrick.

“After this five-week period, we will either remain on level 5 or move to level 3 or 4. People could still be denied the right to attend public mass.

To put this another way, why are God and the celebration of mass not considered essential services, yet off-licences can remain open? The 50 or 100 people mingling in a supermarket cannot worship in their local church while maintaining social distancing measures.

The arguments made to me by priests are strong. They believe Ireland is turning into the most anti-Christian country in Europe and it is hard to argue with that. They make the point that we must not allow the current situation to change our relationship with the church and God. It is also hard to argue against that. Many people, particularly among the older generation, have a strong relationship with the church and are finding it difficult to cope.

I would appreciate Deputies’ support for examining this matter. If we are able to keep the schools open, we must be able to keep our churches open for public worship.

I reiterate that I support any measures necessary to maintain public health guidelines, but they must be evidence-

based. I do not agree with the disruption caused to workers going to essential work each day, particularly the disruptive checkpoints on motorways.

Will the Minister give an assurance that no priest will be prosecuted for celebrating mass in public? I ask her for a clear answer and to state in no uncertain terms that no priest will be prosecuted for a public celebration of mass,” queried the independent TD. In response the Minister for Justice assured Deputy Fitzpatrick that no priest would be sent to prison for saying mass.

“Deputy Fitzpatrick asked about the issue of mass and whether somebody would be sent to prison or fined. The answer is “No”. While it is against the law, we have not imposed a penal provision in this regard.

It might not make sense but a decision was taken that this was not something we wanted a penal provision to be attached to. It is against the law. We ask people not to attend. We have asked priests. This is a difficult time for those I know. Mass is important for them every week or every day but we are asking people, particularly throughout these level 5 restrictions, to adhere to these regulations.

There is not a penal provision so a person will not be put in prison or fined,” explained the Minister.

Louth ladies power past Longford

The Louth Ladies football team who eased past Longford to set up a clash with Westmeath this weekend.

Louth put their eight month lay-off behind them to see off Longford and set up a winner take all showdown with Westmeath on Sunday.

After a slow start Wayne Freeman’s side came on strong in the second half to record an impressive win. Louth did most of the damage in a six-minute spell midway through the second half when they hit 2-03 without reply to put themselves in the ascendancy as they led by 3-7 to 0-06.

From there to the finish, Longford were always playing catchup and never really threatened a comeback as Louth inspired by their inside forward line of Kate Flood, Eimear Byrne and Lauren Boyle picked apart the Longford defence.

Louth dominated the early exchanges and led by 0-2 to 0-00 after ten minutes with Lauren

Boyle and Kate Flood on target and should have been much further in front with a number of efforts dropping short or into the keeper’s hands.

Longford rallied with fine scores from Aoife Darcy and Grace Shannon but a superb score from Flood after good play by Eimear Byrne had Louth back in front.

Another strong run

by Byrne created a goal chance for Lauren Boyle only for Grainne Reilly to get back and make a vital interception. Boyle and Aoife Byrne added points as the half drew to a close before a sensational 30-yard pass by Kate Flood found Lauren Boyle who nonchalantly rolled the ball into the net in the 29th minute.

Aoife Darcy replied with a score from a free as Louth led 1-5 to 0-4 at the break On the resumption Kate Flood had an early chance to extend

the Louth lead before Longford’s Michelle Farrell was sent to the sin bin for a foul on Niamh Rice. Further points from Flood, Boyle and Byrne stretched Louth’s lead to eleven points before Longford threatened a comeback with two goals in quick succession. However, Louth were back in control once more when Kate Flood found teammate Aine Breen in space and the St Patrick’s player made no mistake as she found the roof of the net with a fierce shot.

Louth almost had a fifth goal late on but Flood was again denied by the woodwork with Lauren Boyle adding a point from the resultant play.

The win will boost confidence levels ahead of this weekend’s crunch meeting with Westmeath while this defeat sees Longford bow out of this year’s championship.

Biden victory sparks celebrations locally

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Local Barber wins UK & Ireland Silver in Men’s Hair event

A local barber has won the UK & Ireland Silver in Men’s Hair event of the Year at the Wella Professionals TrendVision Award UK & Ireland Final 2020.

Barry Kieran from Signature Hair in Dundalk has been awarded one of the highest hairdressing accolades in the UK & Ireland, winning the UK & Ireland Silver in the Men’s Hair Category at the Wella Professionals TrendVision Award UK & Ireland Final 2020 – one of the world’s most prestigious annual hairdressing competitions.

Despite the challenging climate in 2020, Barry Kieran has gone the extra mile to enter this iconic competition and made it through many stages to finally be crowned a worthy winner. The competition began with more than 1000 photographic entries on Instagram and the standard of work has been remarkable – allowing only the very

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Barry Kieran will receive an incredible prize including a Wella education package and trophy.

“TrendVision is one of the most prestigious competitions in the hairdressing industry and our winners should be incredibly proud of their achievement. This truly does recognise the

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Louth Family Resource Centres will play a vital role in the battle against Covid-19 As the country continues to live through level five restrictions, Family Resource Centres in Louth will continue to play a vital role in promoting important Covid-19 public safety recommendations and advice amongst harder-to-reach comunities. That’s according to the Family Resource Centre National Forum (FRCNF), who recently launched a new report outlining the historical, current, and potential future development of the National Family Resource Centre Programme.

Clare Cashman, Chairperson of FRCNF said: “Since the outbreak of Covid-19, the Family Resource Centre in Louth has played a key role working on the ground supporting communities. As we have seen in recent weeks, the Covid-19 crisis has not gone away, and the work of Family Resource Centres is critical as the country moves

to tighter restrictions.

“During the initial lockdown period earlier this year, FRCs experienced an increase in the number of people seeking mental health support and food and essential home supplies. They received more calls from migrant communities, including those in direct provision.

The increase in demand came from many new people who had never used FRC services before, such as older people cocooning and people asking for food.

“FRCs will continue to play a key role in supporting communities by broadening our range of services and responding to the direct needs of some of our most vulnerable in society, we can effectively communicate the changing public health advice and provide vital supports.”

As part of today’s report publication, the FRCNF

launched a new digital toolkit aimed at equipping Family Resource Centres with online resources to support our communities to stay safe by following Covid-19 guidelines.

Commenting on the toolkit, Clare Cashman said: “The past number of months has cemented the FRCs role as important messengers for public health advice and guidelines in light of Covid-19. The digital toolkit we are providing is a helpful resource for all 121 FRCs around the country to enable them to communicate this important information using social media locally to try and keep our communities safe during these difficult times.”

The Family Resource Centre programme has been in operation for over 25 years.

Further information at www. familyresource.ie.

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Two local volunteers pick up awards

1—In which sport would you use a shuttlecock?

2—What are the first two lines from the Frank Sinatra classic ‘My Way’?

3—President elect Joe Biden was born in what state?

4—What is the name of the Greek dip consisting of yoghurt and cucumber?

5—Which country was the first to give women the right to vote, in 1893?

6—What is the plural of moose?

7—Who plays the fictional character Borat?

8—What year did the Long Walk Shopping Centre first open its doors?

9—Beirut is the

capital of which country?

10—What popular children’s TV programme returned to our screens last Sunday evening?

Stinker: What is the contagious disease varicella more commonly known as?

—this week’s answers—

Two unsung heroes in our community were rewarded last week as Mary Murtagh from Tidy Towns and Hattie Billingham from SOSAD were honoured at the inaugral Louth Volunteer Leaders’ Awards.

Mary was given the news last Thursday by Louth Volunteer Centre manager Grainne Berrill and volunteer liaison officer Kayleigh Mulligan who surprised her with the award at a special ceremony.

According to Mary she had no idea that any of this was taking place and was shocked to receive the award.

“Grainne and Kayleigh really got one over on me,” laughs Mary. “They got me to the location where the presentation was being made having told me that it was for something else entirely so I got a big surprise when I was given the award. It’s a great honour and what was particularly nice was that Louth Tidy Towns was getting some recognition. A lot of people do a lot of great work and although I was given the award it is really for everybody in the group,” stated Mary.

“I worked in Louth County Council before I retired and it was through there where I first got in contact with local Tidy Towns groups and throughout the years I would

Left: Hattie Bellingham; right: Mary Murtagh.

help them where possible.

I joined my own local tidy towns group in Dromiskin maybe twenty years ago and eventually we created a network of tidy towns groups around the county and called it Louth Tidy Towns Together. The idea was that we could help each other out and give advice to groups who were maybe just starting out.

There are some great people involved in the organisation who are out keeping their communities clean 52 weeks of the year. Unfortunately littering takes up a huge amount of our time which can be repetitive and frustrating as it takes up time which could be used for more ambitious projects,” explained Mary.

“We do it for the love of our community and for the pride we have in seeing our towns and villages look well.

It’s also a very social hobby and lots of lifelong friendships have been made over the years through Tidy Towns.

It’s been a challenging year for us as it has been difficult to gather in groups and work on projects and we have been unable to have our fundraiser but we are resilient and we will get through it. I’d like to thank Grainne and Kayleigh in the Louth Volunteer Centre as well as Louth County Council, Louth Leader and a host of corporate sponsor who help us every year. And last but definitely not least I have to give a mention to

the brilliant Sarah McKenna from Bridge Street Studio’s who created the beautiful award which was given to all the winners,” added Mary HATTIE Billingham, a co-ordinator with SOSAD Dundalk was also named as a winner in the Louth Volunteer Leader Awards in recognition of the fine work she has undertaken since first volunteering for the organisation in 2017.

“I wasn’t expecting the award. I’m delighted. It was a total surprise. I was presented with a big bunch of flowers, a plaque and a box of chocolates,” she said.

“I’ve done more or less every position as a volunteer.

It gave me a good idea as to how I can help volunteers because I’ve been in their shoes at one point or another.

“I had a strong interest in working with people in the mental health sector. It was an ideal stepping stone for me.”

She added: “It’s lovely to get the award but it can’t be forgotten that the volunteers are at the heart of the organisation and we have a wonderful team in Dundalk.”

The colleague who nominated Hattie stated: “Hattie makes volunteering in SOSAD a joy. She makes the service open for anybody

to volunteer no matter what their skillsets are.

“She recognises when people would be good suicide intervention officers or within the support team and encourages them to go for the training.

“She’s very easy to volunteer under, so understanding and brilliant at motivating volunteers. She manages a wide range of volunteers: suicide intervention officers, support volunteers, admin volunteers and counsellors which can be a difficult task at times as she has to make sure there are enough counsellors and enough support team members available to work around her clients’ needs.

“I’ve seen how hard she worked, how stressful it can be running an organisation… she’s a complete diamond and the place would be lost without her creativity and hard work.

“She’s really kept the place ticking away in these crazy times but mostly because she’s an amazing human being.”

The custom award presented to Hattie was handcrafted

by Sarah McKenna Ceramics.

The Louth Volunteer Leader Awards were supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Volunteer Ireland.

1—Badmington, 2—And now, the end is near.

And so I face the final curtain. 3—Pennsylvania, 4—Tzatsiki, 5—New Zealand, 6—Moose, 7—Sacha Baron Cohen, 8—1994, 9—Lebanon, 10—The Den. Stinker: Chicken Pox.

Ó Murchú welcomes Rent increasing in Louth the election of Joe Biden as President of the United States

I welcome the election of Joe Biden as president of the United States after a hard-fought battle.

His election has a very special resonance for the people of North Louth and the border area. Many people recall, with fondness, the visit of Mr Biden to Cooley in 2016.

Mr Biden has often said how much his Irish roots mean to him. With Brexit looming, it is more important than ever to have someone in the White House who understands the impact this will have on Ireland and particularly any hardening

By Tamara O’Connell

3.2 % to €802 and dropped 0.5% in Co Cavan to €769.

A snapshot of rents in Louth reveals a onebedroom apartment now costs €963 to rent per month, up 7%.

A two-bedroom house in Louth costs €1,078 per month to rent, a three-bedroom house costs €1,236, a four-bedroom house costs €1,390 and a five-bedroom house

THE average listed rent in Co Louth is 4.7% higher than a year ago, according to the latest Daft.ie Rental Report.

The average rent in Louth stands at €1,294, slightly lower than the average rent in Meath which is €1,393.

In neighbouring Co boost for the whole Monaghan, the average region. listed rent has fallen Louth County Council should immediately contact their counterparts in Newry Mourne and Down Councils, as well as the relevant government departIn what was a wide rangments in each juing meeting discussing the risdiction to issue a current Brexit talks, Trade formal invitation to Agreements, the Shared Island Mr Biden to return initiative, Effects upon EU to his roots in Cooley, Citizens, and issues affecting this time as American people working and living in president.

Border Communities accessIt would send out ing financial services. a powerful and symBCAB would like to pubbolic message to the licly thank An Taoiseach for world that America meeting with Border Comstands with Ireland munities; this engagement at as it faces the uncerthis crucial time in the Brexit tainty of a post-Brexit negotiations is very important future.

costs €1,602 to rent per month.

The average listed rent rose nationally by 1.2% between June and September, and 3.4% in Louth.

It means that the average monthly rent nationwide in the third quarter of 2020 was €1,419, up 1.2% on the same period in 2019 and 91% higher than its lowest point in late 2011.

There was a noticeable difference in trends in Dublin and elsewhere in the country.

In Dublin, rents were largely stable between June and September, rising just 0.2 per cent, and are 0.8 per cent below the same period in 2019.

The largest increases in rents has been in the main cities (excluding Dublin) and in the rest of Leinster.

Border Communities Against Brexit meet with An Taoiseach

Ruairí Ó Murchú TD. of the border.

As president of the United States, Mr Biden will be able to make real his expressions of support for Ireland and the Good

Friday Agreement.

It will be 20 years ago next month that President Bill Clinton visited Dundalk. I was there that evening and it was an incredible

for people living in Border Communities to express to the head of Government in Ireland how deeply concerned we are at this time.

The current mood of the negotiations is quite negative, however, the EU under Michel Barnier’s leadership will continue to engage in talks with the UK to the last moment to get a deal.

A deal is vital for Ireland but no more so for those of us living in Border Communities.

We also welcomed the Shared Ireland initiative as a way to bring our Island together, with greater connectivity and investment to create jobs and support emerging technology, and cross border tourism ventures.

We will keep in close contact with the Taoiseach’s office in the coming weeks and months to ensure that the concerns of Border Communities are kept at the top of Government.

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Need for acceleration and a clear timeline on National Broadband Plan rollout – Ó Murchú Sinn Féin spokesperson on Broadband and Communication Networks Ruairí Ó Murchú says Covid 19 has highlighted the importance of access to high-speed broadband for households and businesses.

After questionging Minister Eamon Ryan at the Transport and Communication Networks Committee on the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan, Mr Ó Murchú said: ‘There is a need for the minister to instruct National Broadband Ireland, the company tasked with the roll-out of high-speed broadband, to accelerate the mapping process and design plans for the fibre network. Infrastructure must be forthcoming in the delivery of broadband.

‘While I welcome the announcement of 300

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú. temporary Broadband Connection Points that will serve as external wifi access points in public locations, these do not meet the needs of householders in both rural and urban communities.

‘In Louth, I have been inundated by constituents expressing their frustrations with broadband connectivity. This is felt across the State.

‘Just a few miles outside of my hometown in Dundalk, households are forced to remain in contracts with private operators who provide unstable, unreliable connections at high rates, others simply have no access at all.

‘Minister Ryan stated Covid 19 creates difficulties regarding travel for a key foreign contractor, and while the

minister believes the work in large has been caught up with, we can have no room for error, we must get this right and there must be no further delays.

‘I was disappointed by the minister’s assertion that it was not possible to provide a timeline at this stage.

‘We need to get the infrastructure in place and progress quickly with a clear timeline as to the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan.

‘I will continue to highlight the issue of broadband connectivity and the National Broadband Plan in the Transport and Communication Networks Committee.

‘Households and businesses alike need to know when they can expect high speed broadband, there must be a timeline’.

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Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

10

Louth student receives €20,000 scholarship award

Last week, Dr Martin Naughton and his wife Carmel announced the winners of the 2020 Naughton Foundation Scholarship Awards.

County Louth Student, Robert Mee Lucey was awarded a scholarship worth €20,000.

Supporting academic and innovative excellence in Irish students, this Scholarship Award is an investment in the future of Ireland’s reputation as a country with outstanding graduates. A former student of the St. Mary’s College Dundalk, Robert has accepted a place at Trinity College, Dublin studying Mathematics.

Robert joins 35 exceptional Irish students who were awarded third

level scholarships towards their studies in the areas of engineering, science, technology and maths.

Since its establishment in 2008 scholarships worth over €4million have been awarded to over 300 students. The scheme started in three counties and has continued to expand annually to become a nationwide scheme in 2016. There is one guaranteed Scholarship (€20,000) for each participating county, with some counties awarded more than one Scholarship. Each Scholarship is worth €5,000 per annum for each year of a student’s three or four year undergraduate degree. Traditionally the awards are presented by found-

ing patrons of The Naughton Foundation, Dr Martin Naughton and his wife Carmel at a ceremony with the students’ schools and families in attendance but as a result of current restrictions this event was deferred for this year.

More than 200 schools have also benefited from this prize to date with some schools receiving it on more than one occasion. Robert’s former secondary school, St. Mary’s College Dundalk received a prize of €1,000 towards their school’s science facilities, for their support of these students. Speaking about the growth of the programme over the past twelve years, Dr. Mar-

tin Naughton commented: “We have been awarding scholarships to encourage and reward students for their undergraduate studies in the STEM area since 2008. After the difficult academic year that 2020 was, we are particularly delighted to announce this year’s scholarship winners and their schools. We are both really looking forward to celebrating with them in person next year and welcoming them to our community of over 300 Scholars and Alumni.”

The Naughton Foundation is also continuing to invest further in ‘Science in a Box’. The program runs for sixth class pupils for a number

of weeks during the primary school year with PhD students spending one hour each week co-teaching with the class teacher, a specific aspect of the science curriculum. For 2020, The Naughton Foundation is delighted to continue its support of this program for 30 sixth classes in the Dublin, Meath and Louth region.

The Foundation is also continuing its support of ESB Science Blast, a program run by the RDS which brings primary school classes from all over Ireland together in Dublin, Limerick and Belfast to display and discuss their science projects.

Robert Mee Lucey.

Retailers in Louth to benefit from the Online Retail Scheme

Senator John McGahon.

Retailers in County Louth are set to benefit from new funding under the Government’s Online Retail Scheme, a Fine Gael Senator John McGahon has said.

Senator McGahon said: “Retailers in County Louth have been hit extremely hard

by COVID-19 and many have had to move their sales online or expand their existing online offering. That’s why the Government has been working to ensure they are supported in doing so during this challenging time.

“Today my colleague the Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail at the Department of Enterprise,

Trade and Employment, Damien English TD, has announced a €5.3 million Online Retail Scheme. I’m pleased to say that retailers in County Louth are going to benefit from the funding, which is administered

by Enterprise Ireland.

Carroll Newsagents Ltd Franks Interiors Ltd Hillcastle Sales Ltd t/a The Gift and Art Gallery Mahers Chemists Ltd Montekin Ltd t/a Town Centre Pharmacy “This is the second call of the Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme and it is targeted at retailers who already have an online presence to help them strengthen their online offer-

ing and enable them to reach a wider customer base. The successful applicants will receive funding ranging from €16,000 to €40,000 with an average grant value of €36,700 covering up to 80% of project costs.

“Fine Gael has always supported small and medium businesses as we know they are the backbone of local economies in towns and villages right around the country. 70% of the successful applicants for this scheme are actually located outside Dublin and I am delighted that hard pressed retailers in County Louth are benefitting,” Senator McGahon concluded.

Minister Damien English

TD said: “I was very pleased by the positive response from the Irish retail sector to the second call for applications under the Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme as Government continues to help Irish businesses deal with the impact of the pandemic. The economic value of operating in the ecommerce space and its convenience for customers has come to the fore in 2020 and this scheme aims to help companies improve and maximise digital sales prospects.

“We know that consumers are keen to support their local retailers, even when shopping online, and these grants will help businesses to really

maximise the opportunities in the e-commerce market. Of course, this market is not limited by geography and physical location and we know that Irish businesses with strong online resources also have their eyes on the international marketplace.

“The Government continues to focus on helping businesses to get back on track in the coming months and as more of our workplaces and businesses can reopen in the coming weeks, in line with public health guidelines, we will do everything we can to support retailers in creating safe shopping spaces, in store and online, for customers and staff.”

recent deaths

Harry Prendergast Co. Louth. Suddenly, fol- in his sleep, in his favour- son-in-law, sisters-in-law, and Lorraine. Beloved sister his heartbroken parents, Conor, Stephen, Kerrie, Meadow View, Dundalk, lowing an accident. Neil ite chair, in his favourite brother-in-law, nephews, of Patsy, Marie (Kelly), Brian sisters, brother-in-law Em- Chaela and Aoife. He will mett, uncles, aunts, rela- be sadly missed by his sorLouth. Died peacefully on will be very sadly missed corner, with his favourite nieces, relatives and many and Jean (Tumulty). rowing wife, sons, daughAnne McARDLE (née tives and many friends.

November 2nd 2020. He by his heartbroken par- earphones, listening to friends.

McDermott`s Niall McGahon Chapel ter, grandchildren, greatwill be Sadly Missed by ents, Leonard and Martina, his favourite radio show in John Shevlin Crossa- Hearty), his partner Frances, son brothers James and Patrick, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, beigh, Knockbridge, Co Terrace, Dundalk, Louth. Road, Haggardstown, Co grandchildren Laila, Leo Odhran, sisters Mary and grandparents Kathleen and Spain. He will be greatly Louth. Peacefully at home Peacefully surrounded by Louth. Suddenly, at home, and Ruby, sisters Josie and Joan, twin brother Gerald, Patrick Corrigan, aunties missed by his loving wife surrounded by his family. her loving family at Our 7th November 2020. Ni- Mavis, son-in-law Michael, brothers-in-law Arthur and Regina Clarke and Pauline Nuria, daughters Aoife and 4th November 2020. John Lady of Lourdes Hospital. all, beloved husband of daughters-in-law Pauline Pat, sister-in-law Lillian, en- Pyne, uncle Barry, uncle-in- Aisling, sons Aonghus and beloved husband of the Beloved wife of Matthew Maeve, dear father of Niall, and Catherine, brotherstire family circle, all friends law, aunt-in-law, cousins, Oisin, their mother Marga- late Mary née Duffy dear (Matt) and dear mother of Louise, Hugh and Anne- in-law Tommy, David and relatives and a large circle ret, grand-daughters Ciara, father of Thomas, Paul, Vincent, Ann, Edward and marie, loving grandad of Pat, sister-in-law Sally, his and colleagues.

Saoirse and Rhea, grand- Aine, Mary and, Séan and Matthew. Predeceased by Cara, Joseph and Bláthnaid, nephews, nieces and large Donal McKevitt Seat- of friends. tle, USA and Newry Street, Michael Brennan Mount sons Liam, Myles and granddad of Joseph, Daíthi, her parents Patrick and and brother of Charles- family circle.

Carlingford, peacefully at Anville Stillorgan, Dublin Jacques, son-in-laws David Isabelle, Liam, Conor, Ciara, Elizabeth, sisters Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Hugh, Robert Noel BIRD Beechmount home in the presence of his and formerly of Darver and Matthieu, daughter-in- Finn, Sadhbh and Saoirse and Ellen, brother Mattie, and late Roderick. Niall will Drive and formerly Hyde and brother of Maureen sisters in-law Rita, Mena be sadly missed by his wife, Park, Dundalk, Louth. loving family. Predeceased and New York. 3rd Novem- law Eleni. by his beloved daughter ber 2020. Peacefully in the Michael Pascal Mc and the late Paddy and and Rhoda. She will be sons, daughters, grand- Peacefully, in the dediMegan (McKevitt) Tormey. wonderful care of Moorh- Loughlin Red Barns Nancy. John will be sadly sadly missed by her loving children, brothers, sons-in- cated care of the staff of Donal will be sadly missed all Lodge, Ardee. Michael Road, Dundalk. Peacefully missed by his sons, daugh- husband, sons, daughter, law Eduard and Jonathan, Our Lady of Lourdes Hosby his wife Mary, son Matt, son of the late William and at home surrounded by ters, grandchildren, son-in- sister Kathleen Mc Keon, daughters-in-law Noor and pital, Drogheda. Beloved daughter-in-law Silvia and Mary-Alice, beloved hus- his loving family. 4th No- law Frank, daughters-in- daughters-in-law Dymph- Siobhán, nephews, nieces husband of Gertrude (nee Neary), dad of Alan and grandchildren Koa and Kel- band of the late Sheila, dear vember 2020. Pascal, much law Sinead and Beth, sister, na, Caroline and Noeleen, relatives and friends. len, his son-in-law Mark and father of David and Garry, loved husband of Mary Ter- nephews, nieces, relatives grandchildren Darren, Ni- Frank FINNEGAN Regina Andrea, son of the late all, Niamh, Rebecca, Sean, Park, Jonesboro, Armagh / John and Jane, granda of grandchildren Luke, Nell granddad of Oscar and esa, née Begley, and dear and friends. and Zygi, his sisters Berna- brother of the late Peter, father of Michael, Marga- Kay (Catherine) O’Reilly Óisin and Katie, nephews, Dundalk, Louth. Late of An- Alan, Cillian and Ruairí and dette and Cecelia and their Jack, Joe, Tom, Billy, Denis, ret, David and Brendan (nee Tumulty), Rassan, nieces, cousins, extended naskeagh, Mountpleasant. great-granda of Jake. He husbands Pat and Liam Paddy, Val, Eugene, Judith, and grandad of Jack, Luke, peacefully at St. John’s family, relatives, wonderful Peacefully, in his 90th year, will be sadly missed by his in the dedicated care of the sorrowing wife, son, daughand all his nephews, nieces, Rosa, Mary, Betty, Nancy Fionn, Orán, Eoin, Eve, Hospice, Newry in the lov- friends and neighbours. and Margaret. Michael will Sophie, Conor, Alannah, ing care of her family. De- Darren Brennan Rath- staff of Daisy Hill Hospital, ter, grandchildren, greatrelatives and friends.

Neil Robert Corrigan be sadly missed by his sons, Saoirse, Daniel and Sinead, voted wife of Gene. Cher- neety, Knockbridge, Co Newry. Beloved husband grandson, sisters Rose and Bannonstown, Hayes, Na- grandson, daughter in law predeceased by his broth- ished mother of Kieran, Louth. Tragically, 5th No- of Anna (nee Kearney), dad Kitty, brothers Michael and van, Meath / Dundalk, Caroline, nephews, nieces, ers, Gerald and Dermot, baby Patrick James (RIP), vember 2020. Darren, of Noel, Kevin, Aidan, Dam- Jemmy, daughter-in-law and his sister Maura. Pascal Ronan and Stephen. Lov- much loved son of Noel ian and Orla, son of the late Barbara, son-in-law Alan, Louth. Late of Bannons- relatives and friends. town, Hayes, Navan, Co. Laurence (Larry) McAR- will be sadly missed by his ing grandmother of Dylan, and Irene and dear brother Matt and Mary and granda brothers-in-law, sisters-inMeath and St. Andrews, DLE Carlingford, Louth. wife, sons, daughter, grand- Saorlaith and Laoise. Dear of Marie and Ciara. Darren of Shane, Corey, Shauna, law, nephews, nieces, relaOld Muirhevna, Dundalk, Suddenly, but peacefully children, daughters-in-law, mother in law of Brónach will be sadly missed by Paudi, Lauryn, Louise, Ryan, tives and friends.

11

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Family Notices novena

in memoriam

Callan joseph In loving memory of Joseph Callan, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 19th March, 1955, aged 54 years.

Rest in peace.

Callan christina In loving memory of Christina Callan, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 15th June, 1969, aged 68 years.

Rest in peace.

novena NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it).

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

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). J.S.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Behold me kneeling at your feet Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. You know why I make this Novena. I come exhausted with fatigue to show you the crushed weights of my trials.

You are powerful O Mary and can come to my assistance.

(Here mention your request).

I feel confident by the thoughts you can help. I have reason to expect any favour from a Mother who is at once so powerful in the name of the love which you ever had for your divine son. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Queen of peace, pray for us. This Novena will grant you any request. Publish prayer immediately. Also thanksgiving to the Sacred Heart. Thanks to the Sacred Heart for favours. M.McG.

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

NOVENA TO saint martha St. Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith, I offer up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my difficulties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when Our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have definite pity in regard to the favour I ask (Mention favour). Intercede for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities.I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon which thou didst cast at thy feet.One Our Father and three Hail Marys, and a Glory Be Amen; and a lighted candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made known with the intentions of spreading devotion to St. Martha.This miraculous Saint grants everything before the Tuesdays are ended. No matter how difficult.

M.McG. The Miracle Prayer Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am, I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your Name, I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce Satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life, Jesus. I accept you as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul and spirit. Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your Precious Blood, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus. I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen.

Mary, My Mother, Queen of Peace, St. Peregrine, the cancer saint, all the Angels and Saints, please help me. Amen.

M.McG.

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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.

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planning notice

DUNDALK TOWN COUNCIL—We Dundalk PR Limited t/a Imperial Hotel intend to apply for Retention permission, Dundalk PR Limited t/a Imperial Hotel are applying for retention permission for works to; the rear of the hotel. The works include for removal of existing timber fence and two sets of double doors. Replacement of same with new highlevel timber fence to the goods inwards area & lower level non-permanent fixed fence boxes to the venue entrance incorporating floral & hedging trims as well as feature lighting. A new timber canopy immediately over the entrance with signage, all fixed above unchanged steps and wheelchair accessible ramp. Installation of Timber boundary fence to both car parks incorporating three security barriers. Imperial Hotel, Park Street, Dundalk, A91 ND6P 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, Planning Office, County Hall, Dundalk, from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to Louth County Council, Planning Office, County Hall, Dundalk 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.

Polio Survivors Ireland looking for donations As the dark nights and the short days of winter set in some people in the community that have a disability feel isolated and lonely because they are among the high risk areas for COVID19. Many have restricted their movements since March.

There are many charities out there that offer help like Polio Survivors Ireland who have many members in the area. However, like most charities they are feeling the pinch due to no fundraising events able to take place this year due to Covid. No flag days and no collections in shopping centres. Polio Survivors Ireland is a small charity who do use the media advertisement to promote their good work as all funds

raised goes directly to help Polio survivors in the Dundalk and surrounding areas. By making a donation to the group you are directly providing support to a member of your local community.

With that in mind, during this season of giving, please consider dropping a little note in the post and put a donation with it to North East Polio Survivors Ireland, Unit 319, St Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7. Perhaps you could have a collection among those that you might be meeting up with this Christmas as lockdown measures ease in December.

This Christmas season keep safe, wear a face covering and above all shop Brendan Moore local whether it be in your town or from Polio survivors Ireland. village.

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

12

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Local musician releases new concert film THE world premiere of local singer-songwriter David Keenan’s new film “Alchemy & Prose: A Concert Film” is due to take place this Sunday.

The film is featured at the Doc’N Roll Film Festival alongside the new Phil Lynott, IDLES, Mike Skinner and The Streets, Talk Talk, Larry Levan and other feature lengths.

David tweeted: “I couldn’t be more proud of what this film represents. The life altering power of music, the community that thrives because of it, the positive energy harnessed at live gigs Least we forget the importance of the Arts.”

It will be broadcast for the first time at 7pm on Sunday and will be available on David’s YouTube channel afterwards.

The one hour 17-minute long film charts David’s musical career over the last number of years culminating in his sold-

David Keenan.

out gig at The Olympia Theatre in Dublin last January.

The film has been dedicated to the memory of band member Gar Kane who passed away recently. An album - Alchemy & Prose: live recordings - is out now on Rubyworks.

Family events at Louth Science Festival

Lego Brickx Virtual Video Workshop: A virtual Brickx Club workshop. Experiment with rubber band cars, volcanoes, catapults and ice excavations. Tune in to join Clodagh demonstrate step-by-step and try it yourself at home. Video will go live at 11am via the Louth County Libraries Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/LouthCountyLibraries. Perfect for families, all are welcome to watch.

Junior Einstein’s Virtual Workshop: Join the Junior Einstein’s Science Club to see some fascinating experiments with slime. elephant’s toothpaste and lots more science fun. Takes place via Zoom at 3pm, perfect for families. Booking is essential as places are limited.

For further information contact Dundalk Library at Tel : 042 9353190 or Email: libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.

Welcome for establishment of Pensions Commission Fianna Fáil Senator for Louth Erin McGreehan has welcomed the Government’s approval for the establishment of the Pensions Commission.

The Commission, which will be chaired by Ms Josephine Feehily, will examine sustainability and eligibility issues in respect of State Pension arrangements and will outline options for Government to address issues such as qualifying age, contribution rates, total contributions and eligibility requirements Senator McGreehan commented, “I want to welcome the establishment of this Commission. I believe that it is the correct way forward in tackling the complex issues around pen-

sions.

“I will be requesting that any policy recommendations that come from the commission are gender-proofed. There is incredible gender inequality in the current pension system where women have been penalised for staying at home to care for their families.

“There are clear challenges regarding how pensions will be financed into the future, and there is potential for a pension crisis if action is not taken now.

“There is concern that if a long-term view of this is not taken that there could be a large number of older people living in poverty in the future,” concluded Senator McGreehan.

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

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St Brigid’s School annual art exhibition saint Brigid’s School, annual art exhibition at An Táin Arts Centre will go virtual this year with an online gallery and a live launch on Facebook.

Together - Apart | 10th - 21st November St Brigid’s School community have been apart yet together during the Covid crisis.

Creativity flourished in kitchens, gardens and living rooms. Sharing creativity in virtual spaces, we stayed together.

Celebrating our success and keeping safe apart we were as always together, a community of talented resourceful learners Under

level 5 restrictions, the Basement Gallery at An Táin Arts Centre is closed to the public, but you can view the wonderful work by the students of St Brigid’s School in our online gallery by visiting www.antain.ie.

Director of An Táin Arts Centre, Paul Hayes says “November’s exhibition by the students of St. Brigid’s has become an annual event at An Táin Arts Centre and one we really look forward to each year.

I’m delighted that we have found a way to showcase these wonderful young artists work albeit in a very different way in keeping with

our times.”

Live launch on Facebook | Tues 10th November | 11:30am There will also be a live streamed event launch on An Táin Arts Centre’s Facebook Page on Tuesday 10th of November at 11:00am where Director, Paul Hayes will officially launch the exhibition and speak to the teachers at St Brigid’s about the work created by their students.

An Táin Arts Centre, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth BOOKING 042 9332332 | www.antain.ie Facebook https://www.facebook. com/antainartscentre/ Twitter https://twitter.com/antainarts.

will receive an €8,000 bursary to invest in themselves and their practice, combined with participation in an advisory and developmental framework and a peer network.

For over 35 years Local Authority Arts Offices have worked directly with artists to ensure the arts thrive in all communities. Working in a grass roots and foundational way has allowed Arts Officers to identify and to respond to the needs of artists, keeping the arts and cultural agenda focussed and relevant in changing environments.

“We embrace the opportunity in our communities to inform and lead new ways of working collaboratively towards cultural development”, said Jenny Sherwin, Wicklow County Council Arts

Officer. “At the heart of all of this are artists, the real animators of the arts in Ireland - the writers, musicians, actors, performers, dancers and filmmakers. We envision this pilot scheme as a platform for these creatives to value their time, to showcase their work and their collaborations, sharing their learnings locally and nationally as a legacy of the project.”

“The bursary seeks to provide artists with the time and resources to think, test new ideas, research new approaches and to reflect and engage with their artistic practice”, said Maureen Kennelly, Arts Council Director. “The Arts Council is delighted to partner with local authorities, who are responding thoughtfully and ambitiously to the

challenging environment for artists. The carefully considered support network built into Platform 31 sets this bursary scheme apart.”

The scheme will establish a peer networking framework for participating artists, introducing them to a pool of critical thinkers to share their work and learnings, and encouraging a national conversation about creating work in local contexts. The exact nature of this artist support framework will be informed by the proposals and interests of the 31 artists selected.

The award is open to artists of any discipline and practice, based in Ireland, as well as multi-disciplinary practice and design of all kinds. It is designed to support mid-career artists who must have

in Brief Historical Society

If you have family buried in Kilwirra who have no headstone please phone 0851833110 with their names.

St Joseph’s GFC Lotto

PLATFORM 31 initiative will help local artists A nationwide artist development scheme by the 31 Local Authority Arts Offices, in collaboration with the Arts Council The Association of Local Authority Arts Offices (LAAOs), in collaboration with the Arts Council, present PLATFORM 31 – a national opportunity for artists to develop their practice and test new ideas of collaboration, research, audience development, place-making and sharing their work.

Designed to support and offer career development for 31 midcareer artists (one artist in each of the 31 local authorities around Ireland), there are two elements of support for participating artists in the scheme: financial and developmental. Participating artists

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been in receipt of support/investment from a Local Authority Arts Office or the Arts Council within the last three years.

Applications open from November 9th - 30th. For more information email localartsireland@gmail. com or see https://platform31.localartsireland.ie/ The scheme is open to: Artists living in any of the 31 Local Authority regions in the Republic of Ireland.

Artists working in any medium and practice, as well as multi-disciplinary practice and design of all kinds.

Artists who have received Local Authority Arts Office or Arts Council funding within the last 3 years (2018, 2019, 2020).

No winner of Jackpot of €3,300 on 8/11/2020 The numbers drawn 1, 15, 23, 27. The €50 winners were 1. Helen Neary c/o Josie Neary 2. Olivia King c/o Josie Smyth 3. Sarah Gallagher c/o Eamonn Gallagher.

Cooley Connect

A six-week course via zoom will be facilitated by the Louth Volunteer Good Relations Programme.

Further details: phone 0851833110, 0860461781, 0833924117. Everybody welcome.

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you Phone: 042 932 0888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com

St Brigid’s ‘Together-Apart’ Exhibition

Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020

Louth Ladies Power past Longford

Louth powered past Longford in the Ladies Senior Championship by a score of 4-10 to 2-7.

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Traffic during phase 5 twice as high as March Despite significant reductions in traffic volumes in the two weeks since Level 5 restrictions were introduced, crashes and traffic incidents are occurring at a much higher rate than seen during the early weeks of the original COVID-19 lockdown in March.

In the first two weeks of Level 5 restrictions, traffic volumes on major routes across the country have fallen to approximately 60% to 65% of levels seen during a typical weekday in October. In contrast, during the initial weeks of the first lockdown in March of this year, many routes were recording as low as 35% of their typical weekday volumes

based on TII figures.

Among the factors contributing to increases traffic volumes during the Phase 5 restrictions are the decision to keep schools open and a greater number of industries, such as construction sites, continuing to operate during the current restrictions.

Despite the reduction in traffic, however, crashes are occurring on our roads at a much higher rate than they did in March of this year. During the first 13 days of Level 5 restrictions, the number of crashes reported by AA Roadwatch trebled when compared to the first 13 days of the March lockdown – 37 compared

to 11. Similarly, a total of 65 ‘traffic incidents’ were reported by the AA during the 13 days of Level 5 – up from 24 during the same period COVID-19 restrictions in March.

For the purposes of this analysis, AA Roadwatch looked solely at incidents which resulted from traffic volumes on the roads, such as a crash or a breakdown. Other incidents reported by AA Roadwatch which likely would have occurred irrespective of traffic volumes, such as a fallen tree, are not included in the numbers compiled by the AA. “As expected, traffic volumes have fallen during the first two weeks of

Level 5 restrictions, but not at the same rate as we saw during the initial lockdown in March of this year. With schools, construction and other sectors allowed to remain open, this increase in volume isn’t a surprise.

However, the significant increases in crashes and traffic incidents is something which is a cause of concern,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated.

“Late-October and the winter period is traditionally a dangerous period on our roads, but despite lower volumes during traditional commuting periods incidents are still occurring at a worrying rate,” Faughnan added.

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

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tthews Photo Credit: Warren Ma

Photo Credit: Warren Matthews

tthews Photo Credit: Warren Ma

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Dundalk Leader 11th November 2020