Net Gains for Dundalk
By Paul Byrne
DUNDALK is set to become the home for Ireland’s first ever indoor tennis arena. On Monday Tennis Ireland announced an exciting development in Irish sport with the establishment of the country’s first indoor tennis arena. This ambitious project is being realised through a 20-year tenancy agreement with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT) for the former Dundalk Ice Dome.
Once the home of the Dundalk Bulls ice hockey team, the Dundalk Ice Dome has stood vacant for over a decade. Now, it is being transformed into a state-of-the-art indoor tennis arena, designed to inspire and nurture talent across all levels of the
sport. The arena is set to open its doors summer 2025, heralding a new era for tennis in Ireland.
Speaking about the project, President of DKIT, Dr. Diarmuid O’Callaghan said “We at DKIT are delighted to support Tennis Ireland in their ambitions to develop Ireland’s first ever indoor tennis arena in the vacant ice dome. Leasing our facilities for this venture underlines our commitment to promoting health, wellness, and community engagement, providing both our students and the broader public with greater opportunities for physical activity and sport. We sincerely wish Tennis Ireland all the very best in their new endeavour”
Continued On Page 2
David Spillane, Tennis Leinster, Letty Lucas, President Tennis Ireland, Kevin Quinn CEO Tennis Ireland, Irene McCausland DKIT, Dr. Diarmuid O’Callaghan President DKIT, Deirdre Brady, President Tennis Leinster and former professional tennis player from Dundalk, John McGahon, who is the current Tennis Leinster Performance Development Director.
Twenty year lease signed for Ireland’s first indoor tennis arena
From Page 1
Kevin Quinn, CEO of Tennis Ireland, added: “This is a landmark moment for Irish tennis. By revitalising the former Dundalk Ice
Dome, we are not only preserving a vital community space but also creating a world-class tennis facility that will serve players and enthusiasts across the island. This arena reflects our commitment to making tennis more accessible, inclusive, and competitive on the international stage. Thanks to the many volunteers, supporters and local patrons for helping make the Dundalk Tennis Arena a reality.”
The Dundalk Tennis Arena will feature: 4 tennis courts with
advanced surfaces suitable for professional and recreational play; Built-in spectator seating to accommodate major events and tournaments; Training facilities tailored for players of all ages and abilities. In addition to hosting regional and national competitions, the facility will serve as a hub for tennis development
programmes, national training camps, and community and school engagement initiatives.
Tennis Ireland is also working closely with DKIT to ensure that the arena complements the institute’s broader plans for sports and recreation in the region.
John McGahon, former Irish Davis Cup player and current
Tennis Leinster Performance Director, who will play a hands-on role in shaping the arena’s tennis programmes, said: “This project has been a labour of love. It’s about giving young players the opportunities many never had— year-round access to world-class facilities, right here in Dundalk.”
The Dundalk Ice
Dome holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, having hosted countless games and events during its tenure as a premier ice hockey venue. Its reinvention as an indoor tennis arena represents a fusion of nostalgia and forwardthinking innovation.
Tennis Ireland’s investment in the Dund-
alk arena is a strategic step towards elevating the profile of tennis nationwide. It aligns with the organisation’s long-term goals of fostering participation, cultivating elite performance, and promoting Ireland as a destination for international tennis events.
Great Northern Haven resident feels abandoned
A RESIDENT in the Great Northern Haven in Barrack St. has spoke out at the feeling of abandonment felt by the majority of the people living in the apartment complex. A resident recently contacted the Dundalk Leader claiming that the Resident Housing Officer only met with them twice in total in 2024 and has yet to meet with them thus far this year.
The Dundalk Leader asked Clúid to respond to the allegations of abandonment by tenants in the Great Northern Haven and they issued the following response.
“To be perfectly honest the general feeling down here is that we’ve been abandoned,” stated the tenant. “There are 16 apartments down here and we are all paying €20 a week. That equates to roughly €17k a year. Last year we had two visits from the Residential Housing Officer which in my mind equates to him getting paid €8.5k per visit. There are a number of issues down here that we would like to get resolved and for me I think that the Resident Housing officer should be meeting up with us at least once a month and listening to our concerns and any issues that we might raise.
“For instance there is a pathway around the back of the complex which is now covered in moss which has become very damp and slippy. As you know, all the resi-
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dents down here are elderly and tenants have just stopped walking on the footpath now for fear of falling and injuring themselves. There is also an issue with the TV signal in the apartments which means we don’t have access to the vast majority of stations.
“We used to have classes down here such as art, tai chi etc but that has all gone now. Cluid/Clann are getting €17k from us down here to provide services and that simply isn’t happening. It’s been 5 and a half months since we have seen our Resident Housing Officer. As I said before it feels like we’ve been abandoned and it goes against everything what this complex was supposed to be about when it first opened up fifteen years ago,” stated the tenant.
The Great Northern Haven on Barrack Street was
officially opened amid much fanfare in 2010 and was showcased as a demonstration housing project consisting of 16 purpose-built smart homes which allow older people live longer independently.
Each apartment is equipped with a combination of sensor and interactive technology to support older people to ensure energy eficiency and a fall detection system for residents.
It is a unique collaboration between the Louth Local Authorities, local Health Service Executive, industry partners, research and development and the older residents. In recent years the day to day management of the complex has been taking over by Clann Housing which is Clúid’s dedicated age-friendly housing service for people over 55.
“Thank you for your enquiry. The Resident Housing Officer is regularly on-site at Great Northern Haven, though it is certainly possible that individual residents may not be aware of their presence during every visit.
In addition to these regular visits to the scheme, the Resident Housing Officer organises and attends regular social events for the residents of Great North Haven, including a Christmas lunch and regular coffee mornings.
Two coffee mornings have taken place in Great Northern Haven this year, with another happening this week. They provide residents with an opportunity to socialise with their neighbours, as well as discuss concerns or suggestions with their Resident Housing Officer and their community.
“Clúid, and Clann our agefriendly offering, recognise the need for Resident Housing Officers to be flexible with their time on-site and must occasionally prioritise visiting certain schemes
where residents require additional support, for instance new schemes where residents and moving in and might have more questions. Our vision is a society where everyone has a great place to live, so if residents require support or have noticed issues in their home or scheme that need to be addressed, they can contact their Resident Housing Officer Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm by calling or emailing our Resident Advice Centre, or using the webchat on our website. Clúid also operates an out of hours service for emergencies.
“A programme of external works has just been completed at Great North Haven, including painting, hedge trimming and garden maintenance, following feedback from residents. An additional issue regarding the television is currently being addressed. An issue with moss has not been reported to Clúid by any residents via the available channels (in-person with the Resident Housing Officer or to the Resident Advice Centre via phone, email or webchat),” concluded the statement.
Art Exhibition in Dundalk museum
TWO of Dundalk’s most talented artists are showcasing a selection of their works in Dundalk Museum from April 15th until the 4th of May. Michael Grant will have a number of his wonderful wildlife paintings on display while Mark Devenney will have a selection of landscape paintings as well as thought provoking climate change themed paintings on view to the general public. All are welcome to attend. The exhibition will be held upstairs in Dundalk Museum which is located at Roden Place on Jocelyn Street.
Michael Grant.
Mark Devenney.
Ó Murchú raises case of misdiagnosis of child in Dáil
THE case of a North Louth family whose daughter was recommended for invasive hip surgery at Children’s Health Ireland that did not go ahead after the parents sought a second opinion has been raised in the Dáil by Sinn Féin.
The parents of the girl told Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú how they were stunned when a consultant orthopaedic surgeon in the North said that that not only did their daughter not need the surgery, he was shocked that any doctor would have recommended it.
The case was raised in the Dáil on Thursday by Sinn Féin deputy leader Pearse Doherty TD during leaders’ questions which focused on the fallout from the reviews of scoliosis and other surgeries at Children’s Health Ireland hospitals.
Deputy Ó Murchú said the family had contacted him after reading about the Children’s Health Ireland review and outlined how their daughter, who was a patient at the hospital from 2016 when she was 14 months old until she was just past three,
Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.
had been diagnosed with hip dysplasia.
The Louth TD said: ‘The consultant was adamant that surgery, which would have required ‘sawing into her hip bone and reshaping the socket’ was needed. This is despite the fact that the child had not shown any symptoms, and, because of this, the parents sought a second opinion from a specialist in the North in 2019.
‘Not only did the consultant
say that the child did not need the surgery, she also didn’t have hip dysplasia and the specialist was horrified that that a doctor had made such an error of judgement.
‘This was a situation that spanned from 2016 to early 2019 and the parents have told me that they were under so much stress about the impending surgery that when they were told it was not needed, the relief was incredible’.
He said the child is now involved in gymnastics and ‘that may not have been the case if this surgery had gone ahead’.
Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘It would have been extreme torture, and no-one would put their kids through that if it was not necessary. People put their trust in doctors, and, in this case, that has been shattered.
‘There has been abject failure in this case and I suspect that it might be systemic’.
He said that while there were around 560 children being reviewed by an independent expert for the years 2021-2023, ‘we need to ensure that all the cases are taken into account’.
Harry’s creative path to earning a Masters
YOU could say that Harry Mallon’s route to graduating with an MA in Creative Writing is a long story, one that started with a difficult conversation in his local social welfare office.
The Dundalk man, who comes from a Traveller background, left school after the Junior Certificate. Despite leaving education behind, he kept his love of reading, writing and storytelling.
“I was always writing, I was always into writing.”
In his late twenties, and unemployed, he went for an interview at his social welfare office to discuss his options. He told them he wanted to be a writer like his literary heroes JK Rowling and Stephen King, but the response was unsympathetic. They bluntly told him, “you’re not going to get far without a degree.”
It was a moment that spurred Harry to return to education. He went on to study Journalism at Dublin Business School before completing a BA
in English and Human Development at DCU. He then secured a role as Traveller and Roma Education Officer in the DCU Access Service, before embarking on his MA. “Seven years later, and I’m working here in DCU and graduating with a Master’s,” says Harry with a smile. Harry says balancing work and the Master’s was challenging but very much worth the effort. “I’d be on the go from 7 in the morning to 10 at night.”
Among the highlights were the regular workshop sessions with published authors, including DCU’s writers-in-residence.
The course also introduced him to writing for the stage. He learned a lot from acclaimed playwright Marina Carr, who lectures on the course.
During the course, Harry wrote his first play. It focused on characters navigating life in the inner city life amid the recession, a work that received positive feedback from Carr.
Harry’s mother is an Irish Traveller, but at the start of his undergraduate degree at DCU, he didn’t talk about his identity. However, when he encountered negative stereotypes being discussed during a Sociology class he felt the need to speak up.
“That’s when I turned around and told them I was from a Traveller background and it was kind of easier after that.”
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Harry was the first person in his family to go to University, but he says they didn’t understand why he was pursuing Higher Education until they attended his BA graduation. That was when they “started to recognise this wasn’t a joke, it was an achievement.”
Since then, his mother has been particularly supportive and she helped to pay his fees for the Master’s. Meanwhile, his nieces and nephews are now interested in going to college.
Returning to his experience with the Master’s in Creative Writing, Harry says he wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the course. For those who don’t know what type of writing they want to focus on Harry advises: “Do it! You’ll find your strength.”
He points out that many settled people hold a stereotypical image of Travellers. “There’s not just one big picture of what the Traveller community’s meant to look like, you know?”
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Harry Mallon.
Healthcare funding for new ambulance station in Dundalk and improvements to Our Lady of Lourdes hospital
FUNDING to the tune of €4.5m is coming Louth’s way as part of a record €1.33 billion allocated nationally for the development of healthcare infrastructure. The funding will see a new ambulance station in Dundalk as well as substantial works at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.
The new ambulance station will be built on a greenfield site in Dundalk and will include general administration, office, rest and staff rooms, kitchenette & dining, toilets & stores, sluice and laundry rooms, staff chang-
ing & locker rooms, ICT room, training & meeting rooms, record room, plant room, threevehicle garage and canopy for 16 vehicles with a wash bay.
In Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Drogheda, funding will be provided for a modular 15 bay surge ward consisting of two ward rooms and associated utility rooms, WCs etc.
In accordance with the Acute Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan a new ward block with inpatient beds, Endoscopy Day Services & Trauma Services will be built.
There will also be replacement of existing OPD Modular building to Crosslanes (20 years old and in poor condition- roof collapse) with an extended Multistorey building (Phase 1 OPD). This will provide improved and additional Outpatients capacity and improved social distancing. Funding has also been provided for a proposed psychiatry of later life unit (POLL) – proposed 10 bed extension. A feasibility Study has also been completed for a deep Energy and Carbon Retrofit Pilot Pathfinder Project in partnership with SEAI.
Gardaí initiate boy racer clampdown
GARDAÍ in Louth broke up an illegal meeting of boy-racers along the border on Saturday night, stopping a number of cars while also seizing one whose driver was unaccompanied despite holding just a Learner’s Permit.
Gardai Siochana took to social media to explain how the Roads Policing section managed to disperse an illegal car meet on Saturday evening.
“The driver of this car was feeling a little blue at the end of the evening. If you are going to turn up to a so called car meet to watch so called grown ups who are putting other motorists at risk by performing reckless manouevers on the road you better have you car in order,” stated a spokesperson for An Garda Siochána in Louth.
“Dundalk Roads Policing managed to disperse a illegal car meet Saturday evening on the border. While doing so we stopped a number of vehicles including this one which had tinted windows (fixed penalty notice) and a learner permit driver unaccompanied ( vehicle seized). We won’t tolerate members of the public being inconvenienced and will use all acts of the road traffic act appropriate to dissuade people in attending these incidents,” concluded the statement.
Dundalk will be home to a new ambulance station thanks to new healthcare funding.
NTA and Bus Éireann announce enhanced Dundalk town service
THE National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company, are enhancing services and timetables on the Dundalk Town Bus Service. Enhancements on Route 174, (Dundalk Bus Station to Grange Drive Muirheavna), Route 174A (Dundalk Bus Station to Fatima) and Route 174B, (Dundalk Bus Station to Bay Estate) will come into effect on Sunday, 13 April.
The significantly enhanced services are funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network. The improvements will benefit passengers in the region travelling for leisure, work and education as well as those making onward connections with bus and rail connections.
Route 174, Dundalk Bus Station to Grange Drive Muirheavna will now provide a service seven days a week, operating every thirty minutes from 6.15am to 23.15pm, Monday to Sunday.
Route 174A, Dundalk Bus Station to Fatima will offer new early morning and late evening services every thirty minutes from 6.12am to 23.20pm, Monday to Friday and from 6.50am to 23.20 Saturday and Sunday. This route will offer a substantially increased service on a Sunday, providing 34 services a day.
Route 174B, Dundalk Bus Station to Bay Estate will provide new early morning and late evening services every
• Route 174, Dundalk Bus Station to Grange Drive Muirheavna will provide new early morning and late evening services as well as a new Sunday service.
• Route 174A, Dundalk Bus Station to Fatima will offer new early morning and late evening services with a substantially increased service on a Sunday.
• Route 174B, Dundalk Bus Station to Bay Estate will provide new early morning and late evening services with a substantially increased service on a Sunday.
• All vehicles on the Dundalk town service will use fully accessible buses with low floor access.
thirty minutes from 6.05am to 23.30pm Monday to Friday and 7.30am to 23.30pm Saturday and Sunday. This route will now provide 33 services on a Sunday.
The Dundalk town bus service will operate fully accessible vehicles, reflecting the NTA and Bus Éireann’s commitment to a
fully inclusive public transport system with accessible vehicles and infrastructure.
“Bus Éireann is delighted to introduce these improved services in Dundalk, significantly increasing transport options for passengers in the region,” said Adrian O’Loughlin, Bus Éireann, Senior Manager, East. “These improvements will particularly positively impact those commuting to the town centre for work, leisure, health and education. These updates are the result of a strong collaboration between the NTA and Bus Éireann to enhance connectivity across the country and deliver an affordable, reliable and sustainable bus service for communities throughout Ireland, helping to make life better.”
Director of Public Transport Services of the NTA Jeremy Ryan said: “The NTA is delighted to support these bus service improvements, which will bring significant benefits to the local communities in Dundalk. Enhanced morning, evening, and Sunday services will make a real difference, offering greater flexibility and better connectivity for work, school, and leisure. This is a fantastic step forward in making public transport more accessible and convenient for everyone in the community.”
For further information on Dundalk’s Town Bus Service, including updated timetables and route maps, please visit: www. buseireann.ie/news/dundalkupdates
GRACE GONNELLY WINS THE FRESH FILM FESTIVAL RTE FACTUAL AWARD
Grace Gonnelly from Dundalk has been awarded the RTÉ Factual Award for Cliff Edge, for a film about living with chronic pain. Grace, a seventeen year old student at Dundalk Youthreach was nominated for four awards for the short film including ‘Best Documentary’ from “Cinemagic On the Pulse film festival” as well as three nominations from the Fresh International Film.
Bus Éireann driver, Louise Kelly and Sales Manager, Michael Colleran.
Civic Reception held for Kate O’Connor and Eve McCrystal
KATE O’Connor and Eve McCrystal were formally honoured by Louth County Council at a Civic Reception held on Thursday, 10th April at County Hall, Dundalk.
The event, attended by nearly 150 guests, celebrated the extraordinary achievements of two of County Louth’s most decorated athletes. Both women have proudly represented Louth and Ireland on the world stage, inspiring countless others with their talent, determination, and resilience.
A trailblazer in Irish athletics, Kate O’Connor made history in 2024 when she became Ireland’s first Olympic heptathlete and Louth’s first female Track and Field Olympian at the Paris Games.
Having developed her talent at Dundalk St Gerard’s AC, Kate continued her remarkable rise with a bronze medal at the 2025 European Indoor Championships, followed just 12 days later by a silver at the World Indoor Championships in China.
Eve McCrystal’s achievements in para-cycling are equally exceptional. The community Garda enjoyed over a decade of success alongside her tandem partner Katie-George Dunlevy, winning five Paralympic medals across Rio, Tokyo, and Paris, in addition to multiple World Championship titles. In
September 2024, Eve was inducted into the Cycling Ireland Hall of Fame.
The ceremony began with a welcome from Louth County Council Director of Services, Joe McGuinness, who invited Niall Clarke, Bernard Maguire and Dita Durse from Louth County Council Fire & Rescue Service to display the National Flag and the flags of County Louth and Dundalk Municipal District.
Kate and Eve were then presented with a Civic Honour Scroll by Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Kevin Callan, and Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr Seán Kelly.
They also received specially commissioned pieces of jewellery, designed by Garrett Mallon Design House, Carlingford, before signing the County Roll of Honour and joining the ranks of previous signatories, including President Michael D Higgins, Irish Ambassador to the United States Geraldine Byrne Nason, and the late Seamus Mallon.
The event also featured a live Q&A session with Louth County Council Communications Officer, Gavin McLaughlin, and concluded with a performance of the national anthem by local tenor David Martin, accompanied by Simply Strings.
Speaking at the event, Cllr Kevin Callan said:
“Civic honours like these are set down in Irish law. With over 140,000 citizens in County Louth, selecting two individuals reflects the sheer scale of Kate and Eve’s achievements. This is not just a gesture; it’s an official and meaningful recognition of their excellence. As an elected council, we are bestowing an honour upon Kate and Eve, but they are doing us an honour in accepting it.”
Cllr Seán Kelly added: “It is not often that you can say you are in the presence of greatness, but that is certainly the case here. Both Kate’s and Eve’s achievements have been nothing short of inspirational. What they have done to promote their sport, not only within Louth but nationally, means that little girls and boys across Ireland can dream a little bigger. If that isn’t a legacy worth celebrating, I don’t know what is.”
Chief Executive of Louth County Council, David Conway, said afterwards: “Kate and Eve have brought immense pride to Louth. Their journeys speak to resilience, perseverance, and excellence. This Civic Reception is our way of saying thank you for everything they’ve achieved, and for the inspiration they continue to provide.”
Lis na Dara residents take part in An Taisce’s National Spring Clean
RESIDENTS of Lis na Dara estate in Dundalk came together this weekend to take part in An Taisce’s National Spring Clean, Ireland’s nationwide anti-litter campaign. Organised by the residents’ association, the clean-up saw a great turnout, with volunteers pitching in to tidy up the estate.
It was a brilliant way to kick off the Easter holidays, with plenty of neighbours getting involved and helping to make the area a nicer place to live. A raffle was held during the event, and there were Easter eggs for the kids, which added to the fun on the day. Volunteers worked hard and collected a large amount of rubbish and litter around the estate.
Speaking after the event, the committee said:
“We’re delighted with how the day went and want to thank everyone who came out to help. It’s great to see so many people taking pride in their community and working together to improve it.” More events like this are being planned, and the hope is that even more residents will get involved next time.
1—Rory McIlroy completed the career grand slam in golf by winning the Masters on Sunday evening.
In what U.S state is the Masters tournament held?
2—The word ‘Blaa’ which is associated with Waterford was recently added to the Oxford English Dictionary. What is a blaa?
3—What do Mahatma Gandhi, Julius Caesar, Yitzhak Rabin and Martin Luther King have in common?
4—Misogyny is the hatred or contempt of women and girls, but what is the hatred or contempt of men and boys?
5—McGeoughs Bar and Restaurant on Roden Place
opened in the year 2000. What was the name of the pub before the McGeough family bought it?
6—Where in your body would you find the uvula?
7—Name the three US states that begin with the letter ‘C’.
8—What do the countries Denmark, Portugal, Canada, South Korea and Qatar have in common?
9—What does Chilli Con Carne literally mean?
10—In which sport is the Vince Lombardi Trophy awarded?
The Stinker—The islands (i) Corsica, (ii) Elba and (iii) St. Helena are often associated with which historical figure?
meat, 10—American Football
3—They
—THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS— 1—Georgia,
only one country. 9—Chilli
with
An Taisce’s National Spring Clean in Lis na Dara.
Kate O’Connor, flanked by Chief Executive of Louth County Council, David Conway, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr Seán Kelly and Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Kevin Callan, signs the County Roll of Honour.
Eve McCrystal, pictured with her daughters Ava and Nessa, and her mother Frances at the Civic Reception.
Kate O’Connor, pictured with members of Dundalk St Gerard’s AC, at the Civic Reception.
Kate O’Connor, pictured with her sister Meabh, father Michael and mother Valerie at the Civic Reception.
Eve McCrystal, pictured with members of An Garda Siochana at the Civic Reception in County Hall
Eve McCrystal, flanked by Chief Executive of Louth County Council, David Conway, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr Seán Kelly and Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Kevin Callan, signs the County Roll of Honour.
2—“A soft white bread roll dusted with flour, particularly associated
Waterford, Ireland.”
were all assassinated, 4—Misandry, 5—The Condil, 6—Back of the throat.
the hanging fleshy dangly tissue at the back of your throat, 7— Colorado, Connecticut and California. 8—They share a border with
with
(to the winner of the superbowl). The Stinker: Napoleon. He was born in Corsica, exiled to Elba and died on St Helena.
BROWNE
Ian
BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE
Birthday Remembrance of my son, Ian, whose 32nd birthday occurs on Thursday, 24th April.
Son, I got a gift from Heaven, Thirty-two years ago, A beautiful boy named Ian, Who had a heart of gold. Your birthday is here today, Son, I just wanted you to know,
How much I deeply love you, And that I miss you so. On this day I should celebrate, But for me, that now proves hard, For unlike other mothers, I cannot send a simple birthday card. No kisses can I give you, Or birthday gifts to buy, All I can do is put flowers, On the resting place where you lie, So please wait for me, Son, Until my days are through, Then I’ll go and spend all of your birthdays, In heaven just with you. xx.
—Happy heavenly 32nd birthday, my wee big man, forever 25, missing you every day, lots of love, Mam xxxx.
HEARTY
May
3rd ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of May, late of Meadow Grove, whose anniversary occurs on 18th April. RIP.
Softly in the morning you heard a gentle call, You took the hand God offered you and quietly left us all, God gave us strength to bear it and courage to fight the blow, What it meant to lose you God alone will ever know.
—Sadly missed and loved by your loving family.
MARTIN
Geraldine and Brendan Joint anniversary Mass for Geraldine and Brendan Martin, Mount Ave, Dundalk. It will be celebrated in the Redemptorist Church on 20th April, Easter Sunday, at 11.00 Mass.
—Remembering you both from your loving family, sons Paul, Barry and Cíaran; grandchildren Séan and Laura; daughters-inlaw Philomena and Aíne.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). S.M.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). P.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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). F.McD.
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CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799.
ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.
WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.
GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK—Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.
DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES— Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.
FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.
ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.
CARPENTRY & JOINERY— Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.
CARPET & OVEN CLEANING— Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.
TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden. I do it all. Grass cutting, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Strimming, Power washing, Gutter Cleaning, Fence Painting, General DIY, Flat Pack Assembly, Removals. Contact Catriona 087 3172109.
ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.
FIFI’S ALTERATIONS— Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon—Fri 9.30—5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.
EXPERIENCED RELIABLE MAN available for lawn cutting, hedge cutting, gutters cleaned and power-washing. Phone 0872296441.
MAN WITH A VAN— Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 0894016728.
ALL PROPERTY MAINTE -
NANCE— Carpentry, Doors & Floors. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Robert on 083 0777666.
WILL’S SERVICES for all mini moves, yard cleans, gutters, gardens, power washing and recycling removal. Contact Will on 085 8604048.
PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE— Interior and exterior plus Wallpapering, also sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men. Tel Brian 087 7558506.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE— Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-762-3758 for quotation.
DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE
SERVICES— Hedge, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower strimming weeding beds, weedkilling, moss removal, control demolition, removal of old sheds fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. Free quote 0877019178.
TREE SERVICES— Tree surgery, stump grinding, wood chipping & pruning. Conifer hedge reduction and ash die back removal. Fully Insured & Certified. Contact Chambers on 087 2750825. Email rchambers2008@yahoo.ie.
PSYCHOTHERAPY IN DUNDALK— Struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or just need to talk? Call Kristine at 0830230066. Sessions from €40–€60.
HEALING AVAILABLE— Rahanni, Reiki, Access Bars, Life Coaching, Universal Reflexology. Williamsons Mall, Dundalk Tel Fiona 087 7188450.
LOCAL POWER WASHING— No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting, gutter cleaning and furniture removals, recycling or rubbish removals. Contact James 0862086141 for free quotation.
. GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.
DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.
FRENCH GRINDS AVAILABLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.
TUITION BY UNIVERSITY LECTURER for 1st, 2nd and 3rd level students in a range of subjects. Also, adults requiring reading, writing and computer skills. To discuss call 083 3963897.
RETIRED NURSE AVAILABLE to look after person in their own home, Dundalk & surrounding areas, own transport Tel 087 4220718.
RELIABLE CHILDMINDER/BABYSITTER available for day or night work. Please contact 087 3816629.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Nargis Irfan and Malik Irfan Awan, intend to apply to Louth County Council for Full Planning permission for a single storey extension to the rear and two storey extension to the side of dwelling, new pedestrian access to rear and associated works at 119 Dundoogan, Haggardstown, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 W52F. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
LOUTH CO. COUNCIL— We, Vetrago Ltd., intend to apply for Planning Permission and Retention permission. The planning permission to comprise removal of existing unauthorised Perspex canopy over seating area and the construction of a new glazed canopy over the seating area and retention permission for seating areas, live music performance stage and all associated services and site works to the rear of the Century Bar, 19 Roden Pl, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 AH7W. The proposed works are within the curtilage of a protected structure Ref—No. D275 (N.I.A.H Registration No. 13705020). This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL— We, Precision Cables (Ireland) Ltd, intend to apply for Full Planning permission for An Industrial Unit for the purposes of wholesale warehousing and distribution and all associated site development works at sites 5, 11, 12 and 13 at Dundalk Retail Park, Inner Relief Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth. To accommodate this new industrial unit and associated site works full planning permission is also sought for the amalgamation of sites 5,11,12 and 13 at Dundalk Retail Park (previously amended under 2360317) and alterations to Road B including arrangement of foul, storm, watermain and public lighting previously granted under planning reference 19492 (amended by grant of permission reference 2360317). This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
LOUTH CO. COUNCIL—We, Creggan Granite, intend to apply for Retention permission for development to comprise re-location and widening of the vehicular entrance off the public roadway, perimeter security fencing, industrial lighting and all associated services and site works to existing light industrial unit at Culfore, Ballymascanlon, Dundalk, Co. Louth. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL— I, Dominic Pilbeam, intend to apply for Retention permission for development consisting of the construction of a side extension to an existing dwelling, comprising of a bedroom, dressing area and en-suite and all associated site development works at No. 4 Knock Shee, Blackrock, Dundalk, Co. Louth. 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. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
5 th ANNIVERSARY SALE
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Cooley clean-up to mark World Earth Day
ON Saturday to mark the start of National Spring Clean April and in advance of World Earth Day Cooley Peninsula Community Alert and Peninsula Marine Litter Project held the 1st of its season of clean ups in Rockmarshall.
Among items collected were tyres , bottles, cans, and even a cooker dumped in no man’s last along the shore and its a mystery how got to a area impassable for vehicles. What was of suprice
and concern was the extremely high volume of wet wipes and cotton bud sticks. While the group has found before this was usually in Bellurgan much closer to the sewerage plant and linked to spills from it and we will be raising with Louth County council and Irish Water as a matter of urgency.
The local community alert committee in attendance were joined by locals lead by Donal and Eunice Rice and over 40 volun-
teers from the Louth Volunteer Centre. A online follower of the group travelled from Kingscourt just to take part.
Councillors Fiona Mhic Conchoille and Antóin Watters both committee members took the opportunity alongside Chairperson Michael Muckian to thank everyone for their efforts in helping keep Louth clean and looked forward to more joining in clean ups planned across the Peninsula regularly now until October.
The Volunteers were well looked after by Aaron Farnon who sponsored all the refreshments from Costcutter in Riverstown and who made sure the Louth Volunteer Centre volunteers mostly all who are refugees living locally had something to eat and they were so greatful of what they called Irish hospitality and one regular Volunteer Moses said they love helping in their new community and meeting locals and having conversations.
Jinx to launch new album in An Táin
LOCAL punk folk musician Jinx Lennon will be playing in An Tain on Friday May 16 in the middle of his album tour for the new album ‘The Hate Agents Leer at the Last Isle of Hope ‘ which got the big thumbs up on RTE’s Arena show recently.
The album is a look at modern Ireland, north and south, and its challenges, the belief in music, family, life, the North East border state of mind and the unusual characters you will find no where else but this locality.
He will be joined by Chris Barry who produced Jinx last few albums and Jamie Bishop who is a member of up and coming psychedelic country band The Shamrock Showband
and his own act Muckno .
Just before the An Tain show, Jinx and the lads will be off to the UK to play Bristol, Cornwall and the west of England .
Special guest is Derry act Strength N.I.A. who plays his own brand of manic folk guitar
Win a free ticket to the Damien
and stories of his manic daily life along the river Foyle. His other version of the band is like a post punk take of the Doors .
Tickets for the show are available from www.antain.ie .The New Jinx album is available on Bandcamp and iTunes .The Muckno album ‘Muck For Hamchildren’ is available on Bandcamp and the Strength N.I.A album ‘Just Rory ‘ is on Bandcamp .
Here’s the new video directed by Caleb Purcell for ‘What Else’ https://youtu.be/ zAX3X-RAs00?feature=shared
The second new video by Gus Cullen ‘The Bigot’ https://youtu.be/ AoV6wCFbmL4? feature=shared
Winstanley
Memorial Poker Classic in Dromintee this Sunday
THE uncle of a man who died suddenly in New York last December is helping to organise a Poker Classic later this month with all proceeds going to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Foundation.
Dundalk man Michael Stanley is helping to organise the event in memory of his nephew Damian Stanley
who hails from Jonesborough. Damian was living in Queens at the time of his death.
The Poker Classic (5 Card Draw) will take place on Sunday 20th April at 6pm at the Dromintee GAA club hall. Tickets cost €50 and include light refreshments, rebuys (€5) and top ups (€10).
The Poker Classic is in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Foundation. TO WIN A FREE TICKET WORTH €50 just send the answer to this question to editorial@dundalkleader.com or text 0879476331. Who had a hit single in 2008 with a song called Poker Face?
NEWS in Brief
Active Retirement
A reminder that the local Active Retirement Group are still meeting in the Lisdoo every Monday.
The remainder of this month’s schedule is as follows:
21st April- Bank Holiday (Easter Monday). 28th April Tai Chi. Club meeting starting at 2:30.
Bank Holiday
Car Boot Sale
There will be a Car Boot Sale and Coffee Morning on Bank Holiday Monday, May 5th, at Dundalk Presbyterian Church, Jocelyn St., from 11 - 3pm. No booking is necessary, Cars €20, Vans €25, gates close for vehicles at 10.30am. Cake stall and refreshments in the Church Hall. Entrance is €2, children free.
SOSAD Bucket Collection
With a huge thanks to Dundalk FC Chairman John Temple there will be a bucket collection
Easter Monday vs Finn Harps in Oriel Park to help keep SOSAD open in Dundalk. Most people will know someone who needed their help and every euro will help keep this vital service in Dundalk. Not everyone is carrying cash now a days but please donate of you can on the day.
Retreats/ Pilgrimages
Pilgrimages
Lough Derg One Day Retreat: Departure Dundalk, Saturday, May 17th, 2025 – Enquiries: 0851833110.
Knock Pilgrimage –June 22nd, 2025: Departure Dundalk. Sacred Heart Crusade 2025 Jubilee Year. June 22nd, 2025: Enquiries: 0851833110.
Please Note: The Following Pilgrimage has been brought forward.
Medjugorje August 27th to September 1st, 2025 -(5 Nights).
Sharing 230 Euro –
Limited Single Rooms 300 Euro. 5 Nights Bed, Breakast, Transport To And From Split Airport. Pilgrims Are Required To Book Their Own Flight. Enquiries: 0851833110 –0879420709.
Launch of the Louth PEACEPLUS Action Plan
Louth County Council launched the Louth PEACEPLUS Action Plan on Thursday, 10th April
THE Louth PEACEPLUS Action Plan is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and has received €4,679,354 to engage with 4679 participants in 15 projects across three themes.
The first theme, Local Community Regeneration and Transformation, received €1,423,895 for two landmark capital projects, as well as various projects to animate these locations.
The first is the renovation of St Nicholas Church of Ireland in Dundalk to enhance its role as a shared musical performance venue. Secondly, there are improvements to the Battle of the Boyne site outside Drogheda.
The second theme, Thriving and Peaceful Communities, received €1,391,441 for seven projects, including two sports projects, three
arts projects and two youth projects.
The third theme, Celebrating Cultures and Diversity, has received €748,215, which is shared among six projects, including one multicultural history project, two former prisoner projects, a shared narratives programme, two minority group programmes, including a traveller and ethnic entrepreneur project and an LGBTQ capacity project.
All of these projects are designed to support peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, building upon the work of the previous PEACE and INTERREG Programmes.
The extension to Muirhevnamór Community Centre was built with funding from The PEACE IV programme, a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a pro-
gramme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “PEACEPLUS, like the previous peace programmes before it, will have an immense positive impact on the day to day lives of thousands of young and vulnerable people across county Louth and further afield and will continue to play an enduring role in building peace and prosperity across Ireland.”
Thomas McEvoy, Louth County Council Director of Services, said: “The PEACEPLUS Action Plan sets out a clear framework for investment in shared spaces, inclusive services, and community connections. We are confident that its implementation will build further on the foundations of trust and progress that have been established over the past number of years.”
and
Eighteen schools to benefit from Hot School Meals expansion in Louth
EIGHTEEN schools in Louth are set to benefit from a further expansion of the Hot School Meals Programme, a Fine Gael TD has said.
An additional 131,700 children across 713 schools will have access to nutritious hot meals starting from today. This brings the total number of primary school children across the country are now eligible to receive a hot school meal every day to 475,000.
Deputy Butterly said the allocation of additional schools in Louth is part of this major expansion of the Hot School Meals Programme announced by the Government.
The Programme, first established by Fine Gael in 2019, will now be availed of by 2,850 Primary Schools across the country. The Depart-
ment of Social Protection will also be engaging with any primary schools not currently signed up, to encourage them to participate. Welcoming the ex-
pansion for schools in
Louth, TD Paula Butterly said: “I am extremely proud of the Hot School Meals Programme and the positive impact it has had in
schools right across the country.
“A hot school meal does wonders for our children in terms of their physical and mental health, as well as their educational output. It makes them happier and more productive, while also giving parents peace of mind that their children are being fed while at school.
“This is a programme that was set up by Fine Gael as a pilot programme of just 30 schools – and it has gone from strength to strength over the years.
“I look forward to working with the successful schools in Louth in rolling out this scheme for the benefit of their students”, concluded Deputy Butterly.
Ellie helps to launch Golden Dance Awards
ELLIE Cooney from McGee School of Irish Dance,Dundalk and
from Blackrock Dance Theatre Arts
as they
who has been announced as the host of the first Golden
James
Awards in Dublin, A Glittering Night celebrating the best in Ireland’s Dance Industry. The awards will take place at the Castleknock Hotel in Dublin on September 13th 2025. For more information check out www.goldendanceawards.ie
Paula Butterly, TD.
Ellie Cooney from McGee School of Irish Dance,Dundalk
Caithlin Spencer from Blackrock Dance Theatre Arts pictured as they joined James Patrice who has been announced as the host of the first Golden Dance Awards in Dublin.
Caithlin Spencer
pictured
joined
Patrice
Dance
Finbar Gethins, Cllr Sionainn McCann, Kerry McFerran, Gina McIntyre, Cllr Kevin Callan, Gobhnait Swift, Cllr Kevin Meenan, Cllr Pearse McGeough.
