17-03-2021

Katie to climb Mt Everest for charity Page 2

Jinx set to release new album Page 9

Shane ready for new season Page 14

Treasured memories of jewel find

Wednesday, 17th March, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 11 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Paul Byrne

A picture posted online by the national museum of a valuable gold, diamond shaped ring dating back to the 12th century brought memories flooding back for a local man this week.

James Wykes originally from Cedarwood Park but now living in Ravensdale was just eleven years of age when he and his father (James Snr) discovered the medieval gold finger ring while using a metal detector in a field beside Cuchulainn’s Castle back in 1984.

According to James he had almost forgotten about the valuable find but memories came flooding back recently when a picture of the ring was posted online by the National Museum of Ireland.

“To be honest I had all but forgotten about finding that ring and when I saw the picture of it I was immediately transported back to that field beside Cuchulainn’s Castle where I found it using my metal detector,” recalls James. “The ring was probably only about three inches under the ground and when we found it my Dad took it home and put it in a drawer as he had no idea how valuable or precious it was at the time.

Continued on Page 2

Dundalk goes green for St Patrick’s Day

A number of buildings in town turned green this week for St Patrick’s Day

St Patrick’s Day video released today

The much-anticipated St Patrick’s Day video which was shot last week in Dundalk is set to be released at midday today with local actor Alvaro Luchessi set to star in the short film which promises to showcase ‘Who we are’ in Dundalk. The hardworking St Patrick’s Day committee have been forced to think on their feet twice over the last twelve months with parades and all celebrations cancelled both last year and this year due to the ongoing pandemic. You can join the committee this St. Patrick’s Day in a virtual celebration of all things that encompass St. Patrick’s Day in Dundalk.

Full Story Page 2

Treasured memories for James Wykes Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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From Page 1 “It probably lay in that drawer for the guts of a year until one day Dad decided to give it to a friend he knew who worked in Midas jewellers to see if it was worth anything. When the guy in the jewellers saw it he knew straight away it wasn’t fake and told Dad that because the gold was so old he would have to give it to an expert he knew who worked in the National Museum.

“Dad went back to the jewellers about three weeks later and was told that it dated back to the 12th or 13th century and probably belonged to a very wealthy man like a bishop at the time. He never saw the ring again as the National Museum took ownership of it as it was deemed property of the state. I know that there used to be a museum at Byrnes Folly beside the mount up there which was destroyed in a fire maybe a hundred

years ago and I’m guessing some of the valuable jewellery stored in the museum must have been thrown out with the ashes of the rubble,” explains James.

“Dad ended up getting a finders fee of £100 finders fee for it and we were told that the ring was worth £2.3m. When all this covid stuff is over I plan on bringing my wife and daughter up to the museum in Dublin to have a look at the ring again. I would prefer if it was in the Dundalk museum but I don’t think that will ever happen,” he added.

When asked to comment on that precious discovery by James back in 1984 the National Museum confirmed that the ring most likely dated back to the 12th or 13th century but added that the gem inside the

James Wykes and on the right is the gold 12th Century ring he found.

ring dated back much earlier going back to the 3rd or 4th century.

“This was a gold finger ring found at Castletown Mount, Co. Louth.

It probably dates back to the 12th / 13th Century AD. This tiered filigreed ring with diamondshaped bezel belonged

to someone of the highest rank and its sunken cells were originally set with red glass. Its value was enhanced by being set with an antique gem of red stone showing a running hare. Castletown Mount was the headquarters of the de Veduns, the pre-eminent

Anglo-Norman family of Co. Louth. The stone at the centre of the ring is much earlier in date.

It is of Roman origin 3rd of 4th century A.D. - and was re-used to form the centrepiece of the ring,” stated the duty officer at the National Museum.

The duty officer went on to stress that a discovery like this using a metal detector could not happen today as the legislative situation around such discoveries is now very different to that which was in place in 1984.

“The legislation per-

Katie to climb Mount Everest for charity

Louth County Council Amenity Grant Scheme 2021 Louth County Council invites applications for grant assistance from the following: (a) Residents Associations (b) Tidy Towns Groups (c) Community Groups This year applicants are encouraged to complete application forms through a new online portal https://www.louthcoco.ie/amenitygrants2021 If an application cannot be completed online, an application form will be available for downloading from the Louth County Council website www.louthcoco.ie and can be submitted in the traditional manner by post or email.

Completed application forms can be forwarded to: Social & Community Development Section, Louth County Council, County Hall, St Alphonsus Road, Dundalk, Co Louth or you can email the Social & Community Development section email: community@louthcoco.ie, for additional information/guidelines on the Scheme.

The closing date for the scheme is Friday 16th April 2021. Applications submitted after this date will not be eligible for inclusion in the Amenity Grant Scheme.

Signed: Paula Gribben

County Hall, Millennium Centre, Dundalk, County Louth A91 KFW6 LOCALL 1890 202 303 w www.louthcoco.ie e info@louthcoco.ie Community Call Number 1800-805-817

A DUNDALK woman is planning to trek to Mount Everest base camp next year in a bid to raise money for the Marie Curie Foundation Originally from Bay Estate, Katie Todd now has family in Blackrock. She plans to travel from London to Kathmandu on August 29 (Covid-19 dependent).

The 21-year-old is currently a third-year student in Psychology and Criminology at Swansea University and plans to undertake the trek with 17 Swansea students.

“I love the outdoors. I’m planning to do a lot of coastal and hill walks in the run up to the trek to help prepare for it,” she said.

“I couldn’t be more excited. They say the hardest part in the acclimatisation.

I’m just hoping to reach my fundraising target.”

Katie explained: “From Kathmandu, I will take a small fixed-winged propeller plane to travel to Lukla’s mountainous airport.”

“This is where my trek will start. On this trek, I will have basic sanitation, no Wifi, no phone reception and no hot running water, all amenities we take for granted daily.

Katie Todd relaxing at the beach.

“As we trek over 11 days, altitudes of 5,545m above sea level will be reached.”

Katie added: “This will be a tough push for me as I have never completed anything like this before, however, it is definitely worth the challenge for Marie Curie.

“This mental and physical challenge is nothing compared to the sadness brought upon people who find themselves or people they love faced with terminal illnesses.

Any donation at all would be greatly appreciated.”

Marie Curie is a charitable organisation that supports people and families who have or are dealing with terminal illnesses.

Katie has set a fundraising target of £3,190 and to date she has raised £458 or 14 per cent of her target as she has been generously supported by 27 donors.

She is also organising an Easter Raffle on her Face-

book page ( https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_f bid=3554406881335999&i d=100003001657446&ref= bookmarks) for anyone interested in being in with the chance to win one of three hampers.

To donate visit w w w. j u s t g i v i n g . c o m / fundraising/katietodd6?fbclid=lwAR3NJqsng48umucQqaalCmJkvrDsACOe4HLBx8qwqBOXYPekCjLyVII

taining to the use of metal detection devices has changed considerably since 1984, with the 1987 amendment to the National Monuments Act 1930 to 2014 making it illegal to search for archaeological objects without the relevant consent (from the National Monuments Service).

“Under current legislation, the possession of a detection device at or in the vicinity of a recorded monument is an offence, and therefore it is very important that the public is fully aware that the recovery of any archaeological object such as that under discussion here, at any recorded site such as Castletown Motte, is today an offence under the terms of the National Monuments Act 1930 to 2014,” explained the duty officer.

St Patrick’s Day video released today

The much-anticipated St Patrick’s Day video which was shot last week in Dundalk is set to be released at midday today with local actor Alvaro Luchessi set to star in the short film which promises to showcase ‘Who we are’ in Dundalk.

The hard-working St Patrick’s Day committee have been forced to think on their feet twice over the last twelve months with parades and all celebrations cancelled both last year and this year due to the ongoing pandemic.

You can join the committee this St. Patrick’s Day in a virtual celebration of all things that encompass St. Patrick’s Day in Dundalk from midday today.

The dark reality of the present is challenged by the luminescence of memories and the coming hope of a brighter tomorrow in this newly-written short video by the Dundalk St Patrick’s Day Committee, which showcases Who We Are. We are Dundalk.

Type This is DundalkVideo Premier just before noon today to watch the video.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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More needs to be done to ensure streets are safe for women—McGreehan

1—What is the study of disease called?

2—What is the iron containing protein called that gives blood its colour?

3—Who wrote the book, The Day of the Jackal, which features an international assassin hired to assassinate French president Charles de Gaulle?

4—Who was the first female TD ever elected to represent Louth?

5—In which large city would you find a district named ‘Hell’s Kitchen’?

6—The river Po is the longest river in what country?

7—Dutch inventor Lou Ottens died last week.

What hugely popular item associated with music did he invent in 1963?

8—Which Academy

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Erin McGreehan raised the issue of women’s safety and urged the Government to bring in concrete measures to ensure safer streets.

Senator McGreehan commented, “This week, like most weeks, we hear horrendous stories about women being raped, sexually assaulted and beaten up.

“What is blamed is she should not have been walking down that road or she shouldn’t have been out.

Award winner for best actress is the only Oscar winner with an Oscar winning mother and father?

9—In which US state is ‘Area 51’ located?

10—A two headed eagle is found on the flag of which European country?

The Stinker—Other than nationality, what connection do Homer Simpson, Mary Blige and Elmer Fudd have?

—this week’s answers—

“The problem is not someone walking home, the problem is not they had too many drinks or the wrong clothes.

The problem is that our streets are not safe.

“For example, to someone who is in a car park alone someone else in that car park is automatically seen as a threat.

I always take a deep breath and go as fast as I can, get the phone ready to ring while I get to my car. This is a normal situation for most women.”

The Louth Senator continued, “I

would really appreciate if we could get a member of the Government to come to the Seanad Chamber to really outline how we are going to make concrete measures.

“No more victim blaming - it is not a victim’s fault that they’re assaulted, it is the assaulter’s fault.

“We need to ensure we can have safe streets, whether we have more CCTV, more public lighting, proper deterrence and a safer and fairer court system for our victims.”

Erin McGreehan.

‘Clarity from government needed’ following latest vaccine setback ‘Clarity and information delivered quickly and directly to those who need it’ must be the tenets of how the government deals with the latest setback in the vaccine roll-out, according to Sinn Féin’s Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Louth TD was speaking on Sunday after the government announced a pause in the roll-out of the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine following concerns in Norway about blood clots.

Deputy Ó Murchú had questioned Taoiseach Micheál Martin in the Dáil

last week about whether there had been interaction at a State or EU level with pharma companies with a view to using the capacity that exists in Europe and elsewhere in the world. He told the Taoiseach it is a ‘life or death’ situation.

The latest blow to the government’s vaccination plans means that hundreds of people in Louth will now not receive their planned AstraZeneca vaccinations this week.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The government has to

move as quickly as possible to inform people who were scheduled to get this vaccine in the coming days what is happening.

‘They also have to ensure that those who have already been given the first or second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine are updated and communicated with directly so they have the right information as soon as possible.

‘This needs to be done while the research into what has happened in Norway continues. The government can’t wring their hands on

this, they need to be proactive and assertive in their communication with people in order to ensure that the public keeps faith with the vaccine roll-out.

‘And they need to quit the stalling over the implementation of mandatory hotel quarantine, which is even more important now because of this set-back and the delay in getting people vaccinated here and across the globe.

‘Mandatory hotel quarantine is imperative now because of the stubbornly high number of positive cases that

continue in the State. With primary schools fully back on Monday, every and all efforts have to be made to try to suppress the virus.

‘We need people to ensure that people continue, despite everything, to do what is needed to suppress the virus.

‘We are still living with deficiencies within the public health system such as antiquated IT structures along with the government not giving sufficient capacity to the test, trace and isolate system which we have still not got right’.

Requests to die at home increase News due to hospital restrictions in Brief The Irish Cancer Society says due to hospital restrictions on visitors, more people than ever want to die at home.

The Society is seeking to recruit more nurses in the northeast to meet the increasing demand for its Night Nursing Service.

Without access to qualified nursing staff, the Society fears it won’t be able to facilitate the wishes of many end-of-life cancer patients.

Demand for the Society’s Night Nursing Service, which provides end-of-life care to patients in their own home, jumped by over a fifth last year as patients sought to spend their final days in the company of their family.

Requests for the free service for patients being cared for by family and friends in their homes surged by as much as 76% in Kildare, 70% in Wicklow and 60% in Dublin.

Demand has continued into the early months of 2021 with more nurses

needed in almost all parts of the country.

Irish Cancer Society Director of Services Delivery Donal Buggy said: “Over the last year we have recruited more nurses than ever and some of our nurses have even postponed their retirement to help with delivering the service, but we still don’t have enough.

“We know that dying at home surrounded by friends and family can provide such comfort to patients, and we want to ensure that we can keep providing such a vital support for anyone who might need it.”

Night nurse Anna Drynan Gale who covers much of the southeast region has witnessed first-hand the unique challenges experienced by families with loved ones receiving endof-life care during the Covid-19 pandemic: “With a growing number of families choosing to bring family members home to die, having a night nurse enables them to do this

for loved ones who in other circumstances might have remained in hospital,” she said, adding: “Families want and need to be together, they want to be close, they want to be present.

They are especially grateful for the support, expertise and professionalism that night nurses bring in what can be a very daunting and emotional time. It is such a rewarding job, and the people we support are so appreciative of what we’re able to do for them.”

Details on applying for night nurse positions can be found on www. cancer.ie/jobs or by emailing recruitment@ irishcancer.ie.

People can help fund services such as night nursing by supporting Daffodil Day 2021, kindly supported by Boots on Friday 26th March. You can donate at www.Cancer.ie/DaffodilDay, visit our Daffodil Day shop or host a virtual event. Find out more at www.Cancer.ie.

Library Events

Volunteering - A Stepping Stone To Employment, Wednesday 24th of March at 11am.

This online workshop will be delivered by Louth Volunteer Centre as part of the Work Matters at the library series. To book your place email libraryhelpdesk@ louthcoco.ie Louth Library Service is hosting a Zoom workshop on Feeding Your Children and Yourself- Saturday 27th of March at 12 noon with Nutritionist – Foodee Denise Wogan.

The Healthy Ireland event will focus on healthy meal planning for all the family with tasty food choices and practical tips that make healthy eating interesting and easy. To book your place email libraryhelpdesk@ louthcoco.ie.

Got a Story?

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

1—Pathology, 2—Hemoglobin, 3—Frederick Forsyth, 4—Imelda Munster (Sinn Fein), 5—New York, 6—Italy, 7—Cassette Tape, 8—Liza Minelli- (her parents were Vincente Minnelli and Judy Garland), 9—Nevada, 10—Albania. The Stinker: They all have the middle initial J.

h k y

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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Council refute suggestions of favouritism in relation to funding applications Louth County Council have released a statement which states that they used the ‘same team, expertise and methodology’ when drafting up funding applications for projects in Dundalk and Drogheda. There were contrasting fortunes for the two Louth towns last week when Dundalk were successful to the tune of almost €7.5m for their St Nicholas Quarter Regeneration application while Drogheda failed to get €56m worth of funding for their Port Access Northern Cross

Route which would build a new ring road to divert traffic from Drogheda’s town centre and open up land north of the town for housing and recreation purposes.

This was the third failed application in a row for this project and it led to a number of Drogheda councillors putting the blame for the failed application firmly at the door of Louth County Council.

Independent Paddy McQuillan even went as far as to call for LCC’s Chief Executive Officer Joan Martin’s res-

ignation for submitting what he described as a ‘sub-standard application’. Fergus O’Dowd TD also chimed in stating that the application wasn’t good enough.

The sustained criticism towards the local authority resulted in a press release being released last Friday which stated that both applications were put together by the exact same team to the highest possible standards.

“Louth County Council has been informed of the details of the Programme Assessment Report into its

Fergus O’Dowd TD.

application for funding for the Port Access Northern Cross Route, including the marking stated in the assessment. Based on the investment, expertise and work that went into the application, Louth County Council is asking that the full details

behind the markings are provided. There is no detail provided with the marks that have been given and in such a scenario it is difficult to comment specifically.

“The Council welcomes a letter from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, to its Chief Executive, that states there is no inference from the Minister or his department that the application was sub-standard. He also notes in his letter that Louth County Council

has always upheld the highest professional standards in its approach to this process; and its capacity to carry out the project or the quality of the application is not in question.

“The Minister has also agreed to a request from Joan Martin, the Chief Executive of Louth County Council, for a meeting to clarify his decision not to grant funding for the Drogheda Port Northern Cross Access Route.

“In addition, the Secretary General of the Department has stated that officials are

available for feedback and the Council will avail of this. However, Louth County Council believes, in the interest of openness and transparency, that the markings for all applications, successful or otherwise should be made public, so as to properly understand the thinking behind the scores allocated to projects.

“Louth County Council which submitted the proposal on behalf of the projects in Drogheda and Dundalk, used the same team, expertise and method-

ology across both applications which were submitted to the same excellent standard; and which were subject to rigorous inspection to ensure they met and indeed exceeded the application standard required.

“The Council has an equal responsibility to all citizens in the County and all submissions are of the highest technical standard with comparative expertise, strategic input and weighting. It strongly rejects any assertion to the contrary,” concluded the statement.

Turas extremely busy Bishops call for limits on numbers during lockdown attending funerals to be raised

By Tamara O’Connell

THE Manager of Dundalk-based Turas Counselling Nicki Jordan has said the service is “inundated” with people looking for help.

“Lockdown has been difficult for everyone.

There are not as many things to do, not as many distractions,” she said.

“People are unemployed and there is increased anxiety as a result of Covid-19. People are also experiencing isolation.

“They are unable to see people and relationship breakdown is a problem too. It’s a situation where addiction could thrive.”

Nicki added: “We see a huge number of people with alcohol addiction. It’s so easily acces-

Nicki Jordan from Turas.

sible. The off-licences are still open and it’s hard to control drinking at home.

“We provide support to people over the phone and over Zoom.

This can be the difference between being sober and addiction.

“Our service is here and available to people.

Addiction is a complex

situation. We offer support.”

She continued: “You need support to gain long term recovery and we can give motivational support and longterm counselling.”

For more information visit www.turascounselling.ie or telephone 042-9338221 or 0429338224.

The Spring General Meeting of the Irish Bishops’ Conference saw a number of topics raised including the issue of restrictions at funerals. A statement released by the bishops urged government officials to raise the number of people allowed to attend a funeral above the current limit of ten while also asking for churches to be re-opened as soon as level five restrictions are eased.

“On 19 February the four Catholic Archbishops had a meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin to continue the dialogue about the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the lives of people in our Church. At that meeting the Archbishops affirmed the Church’s commitment to the protection of life, health and the promotion of the Common Good. During their Spring Conference, bishops reflected on that meeting and released the following statement: “We strongly believe that people’s freedom to worship publicly should be restored as soon as the current Level 5 restrictions begin to be eased. It is particularly painful for Christians to be deprived, for the second year running, of the public expression of our faith during the most sacred time of Holy Week and Easter. This is especially true given that it has been

clearly demonstrated that church buildings are among the safest places for people to gather. We also re-emphasise that the ongoing severe restrictions on attendance at Funeral Masses (currently limited to ten) are causing untold grief to many families.

“Throughout this time of pandemic the approach of the Church has been firmly grounded in the protection of health and life and in the promotion of the Common Good. We recognise that strong restrictions are necessary in times of grave threat to public health. However, such restrictions on personal freedom should be proportionate and for the shortest time possible.

“Despite assurances from the Taoiseach last month that the concerns expressed by the Archbishops would be given serious consideration, we note with disappointment that none of the issues raised has been responded to. We therefore make an urgent appeal that the following matters be addressed: That the easing of restrictions from Level 5 should include the restoration of public worship, albeit in a safe and limited way.

“That the number of mourners permitted at funeral services be increased, with

immediate effect, noting that in Northern Ireland this number has not been reduced below 25. The current restriction places immense burdens on grieving families, compounding the pain of their loss.

We strongly believe that allowing these measures would contribute greatly to giving a sense of hope and consolation to many in our Church - in line with the central message of Easter. These measures would be a substantial support to the wellbeing of individuals and parish communities, and ultimately serve the Common Good of all.

We encourage Catholics to make their views on these issues known to their own TDs and local representatives.

“We wish to remain responsive to public health messaging. For this reason we are recommending the postponement of the sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation ceremonies for the time being.

We continue to keep in prayer all who are suffering in this time of Covid, and all who contribute so much to their care,” concluded the statement.

Delight at St Joseph’s National School as pupils return HUNDREDS of Dundalk school children returned to their classrooms on Monday, March 15 for the first time since December last.

St Joseph’s NS Principal Roz Morris welcomed back third, fourth, fifth and sixth class pupils to the school in Muirhevnamor.

“It’s been an absolute joy. Parents are following the new strategies such as completing the declaration form for the return to school,” she said.

“They have also been following social distancing guidelines. There is a real sense of calm in the

school.

“The children have settled in very well. I’d like to acknowledge the hard work of our administration staff, Lisa and Sharon, who came in to work for two hours every day from January 6.”

Principal Morris continued: “I was also in myself working and enhancing delivery and supporting the children who couldn’t access work online. We had lots of anxious calls from parents.

“It’s sheer delight to be back. Hearing the sound of the children’s voices, there is a real sense of getting back to normality.”

St Joseph’s NS has posted a ‘welcome back’ video featuring the return of children from junior infants, senior infants, first and second class to the school on March 1.

The video shows smiles and happy faces all around as they were welcomed back to school

by Principal Morris and staff.

The children explain how they felt coming back and what they were looking forward too while parents said how happy they were to see their children return to school. For more details visit www. sjns.ie.

St Joseph’s National School.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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O’Murchú seeks reimbursement from HSE for Abigail

A County Louth family has been waiting months for the HSE to reimburse them for buying medicinal cannabis under a ministerial licence that is ‘lifechanging’ for their teenage daughter.

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú raised the issue of Abigail McQuillan (16) from Blackrock, Co. Louth with Tanáiste Leo Varadkar in the Dáil last week. He also contacted Health Minister Stephen

Donnelly about the case, but it has yet to be resolved.

The Sinn Féin TD said he was disappointed that the issue had not been resolved, six days after he brought it to the attention of the government, meaning Abigail’s family continue to have to pay €600 a month for the treatment without any sign of reimbursement.

He said: ‘Abigail’s mother, Deborah Downey,

contacted my constituency office in December and since then, we have been working to try to get the reimbursement for the family, which they are entitled to.

‘Abigail has been in receipt of the ministerialapproved medicinal cannabis for seven months for Lennox Gastaut Syndrome. The frequency and intensity of the seizures she’d had have been greatly reduced because

of the medicinal cannabis which is supplied through a chemists in Newry from a licenced clinic in London.

‘For the last number of months, Deborah has complied with the HSE’s numerous requests for further information, from her and from the neurologist treating Abigail. Despite our best attempts, there has been no resolution to this case and there has still been no update

from the HSE after the specific case was raised in the Dáil last week.

‘Deborah has done everything possible in order to ensure the reimbursement is forthcoming, and continues to have to pay the €600 a month in order to get this lifechanging medication for her daughter. The family is now having to go without in order to continue to do this.

‘This is not the way it’s supposed to be for families

like Abigail’s. They should not have to fight to get reimbursement for medicinal cannabis that has already been approved under ministerial licence.

‘I am calling on the HSE to prioritise this case and ensure that reimbursement is completed as soon as possible. The system needs to be streamlined because it is a bureaucratic nightmare for families who already have enough on their plate’.

Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Early Childhood Ireland calls on Government to extend sector supports

Early Childhood Ireland, the leading organisation in the childcare sector, is calling on all Oireachtas members in Louth to support their call for continued wage subsidies for the childcare sector. The organisation warned that, without the extension of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) into 2022, the childcare sector will be “in jeopardy”. In a recent membership survey, over half of respondents to

Early Childhood Ireland said they would not be in a position to reopen their childcare facility fully if the EWSS scheme ended.

Early Childhood Ireland supports 3,800 childcare

members, who – in turn – support over 100,000 children and their families nationwide, including 81 members in Louth, which are undertaking a phased return to fully reopening

their settings from this week.

Commenting last Wednesday Frances Byrne, Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland, said: “We welcome the further reopening of our sector this week but it’s important to note that there is a long and challenging road ahead. Our message is very simple: without significant public investment over the next 12 months – such as we’ve received

through the EWSS – the childcare sector will be in a very dangerous position.

We are really worried that settings will be forced to close, staff will lose their jobs, parents’ options will be even more limited and, ultimately, children will suffer.”

Ms. Byrne said, that, prior to Covid-19, the childcare system was heavily reliant on parental fees, which lead to a precarious situation for providers.

“As there just isn’t enough public investment in childcare, the current model relies on the ability of most settings to operate at stable and high occupancy levels, maximising income from parental fees,” she said. “But, because of public health restrictions and the huge increase in remote working, demand for childcare places has drastically reduced during the Covid-19 pandemic. The resulting loss of income

places many providers in an unstable position.

“If the Government does not continue to support the sector, there will be long-term repercussions for childcare provision in Ireland. In short, settings will be at the loss of parental income, leading to full or part closure. Ultimately this will lead to there not being enough childcare places available to meet demand, once the economy fully re-opens.”

Dundalk Goes Green for St Patrick’s Day

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

Generous donation from past-pupil St Mary’s College received a most welcome and generous gift from a past pupil this week which included: 37 Lenovo laptops; 1 x printer HP Color LaserJet 4730mfp Series + 2 spare toners; 1 x printer Dell B1265dnf; 10 x Monitor Dell E176FPB (17”); 5 x Monitor Dell E207WFPc; 2 x Monitor Dell P1911b (1909Wf); 19 x

wired keyboard Lenovo; 16 x wired mouse Lenovo; 2 boxes of essential cabling.

The above equipment was donated by Vesta, a market leader in the global telecom sector. This will greatly enhance the learning and teaching in the college and enrich the exposure of our students in the world of information and technology.

The school plan to use the

lenovo desktops as study and research resources for students in their college library, as well as to develop a third computer room, to support the work of LCA students.

Principal Craven welcomed Mr Grzegorz Becmar (Parent & IT Analyst), Patrick Beagan (past pupil and Manager) from trustvesta to have a tour of the school

and to see and hear how the school would benefit from their kind gesture. They are pictured above with the school’s IT co-ordinator Stephen Martin. Their kind donation is part of their outreach project ‘Business in the Community’. Trustvesta are a market leader in dig- Grzegorz Becmar (Parent & IT Analyst), Principal Alan Craven, Stephen Martin ital security, particularly in (School IT Co-ordinator) and Patrick Beagan (past pupil and Vesta Manager) the area of secure payments in the global telecom sector.

Jinx Lennon set to release new album Local musician Jinx Lennon is getting ready to release his latest album entitled ‘Liferafts for Latchicos’ full of songs about modern day Ireland and growing up at the border, work, school and nightlife.

The new album will be released on the 23rd of April and Jinx will play an online gig from An Táin the same day to help promote the record.

The cover of the album features a picture of a young Jinx with his mother in Mosney.

It will be available from my bandcamp website jinxlennon1.bandcamp.com

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and apple music.

Jinx is a critically acclaimed artist and hugely popular on the live scene around the country. He recently played a new track from his latest album ‘Pushin the Patients Round’ on the Tommy Tiernan Show.

With the pandemic scuppering any chance of a live gig to promote the album Jinx has instead decided to play an online gig at An Táin on the 23rd of April between 8pm and 10pm.

Tickets are 10 euro with a booking fee of €1.50.

More info www.antain.ie The front cover of Jinx’s new album features a picture of him and his mother on a day trip to Mosney. or phone 0429332332.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

10

Gaels hopeful for return Zoom making and lockdown postcards: to play next month artist collaborations in times of COVID

By Tamara O’Connell

DUNDALK Gaels GFC U10’s Manager Billy Curran has said he is hopeful for the return of non-contact sports training for children next month.

The return of noncontact sports training for children is under consideration as part of the Government’s plans to ease Covid-19 restrictions in April.

“At the moment I’m hopeful things will work out. The numbers are heading in the right direction and the vaccine is doing a certain amount for the country,” said Billy.

“The return-toplay protocols are in place and are being used and the children are training in small pods.”

Billy added: “The one positive that has come out of Covid-19, if there is a positive, is that we have a lot more volunteers now

because children are training in small pods.

“Our last session was the 2nd of November but what we’ve been doing since is we’ve been offering training sessions for the kids on Microsoft Teams with Brian Óg from Louth GAA. “It’s been great because it keeps the kids active and interested in GAA. It keeps them focussed so they don’t forget about Gaelic and move on to something else.”

Dundalk Gaels GFC

Juvenile Officer said: “I was listening to the radio this morning to the Claire Byrne Show and what they had to say about the topic did not fill me with hope.

“Inter-county football might be allowed in May and tennis and golf but I can’t see the underage GAA training being allowed until the numbers improve.

“I’m no expert but I think the case numbers need to be below 400 per day for collective sport to come back.”

He added: “It’s for the children. We could all be doing other things but we’ve all chosen to get involved and give the kids a lifestyle choice to make sport part of their lives.

“It’s the way I was taught and it has been a massive positive in my life. I’d like to give that to the kids and make it a part of their lives.”

Artists have been working in their studios throughout the pandemic yet attempts to collaborate were severely hampered since Lockdowns began.

Collaboration between artists is the essence, though, of what AAEX is about, a collective of almost 40 local artists supported by Creative Spark. As it became clear at the beginning of the second Lockdown that we will have to live with the imposed restrictions for a long time, AAEX artists started to look for alternatives to their usually physical meetups and engagements.

At the end of October, the group started to use Zoom as a platform for collaborative artmaking, setting up sessions during which participants work simultaneously, each on their own projects, quietly with the camera pointed at the workspace instead of talking. The sessions get recorded in grid view and published as collaborative art works in their own right, at times experimenting with replacing name tags with bits of poetry or giving one artist the reins to “choreograph” a session by varying texts and removing

and re-admitting participants in certain orders. Initially thought of mainly as means of producing interesting videos, the artists soon enjoyed the contemplative atmosphere of working together apart and have increased the time allocated for making in successive sessions.

“Using zoom as a creative platform has allowed us to connect through making as a group with full accessibility”, says Susan Farrelly, who first proposed the Zoom Making sessions. “It has encouraged us to subvert, challenge and experiment with our art practices individually and as a collective. The recorded sessions

are interesting performative portraits of the group and processes employed by the artists. “ With the weeks of the third and so far longest Lockdown dragging on, AAEX decided recently to intersperse their Zoom Making sessions with a project that got them back to creating and sharing physical artworks amongst them, albeit long-distance. 28 AAEX members were each assigned another artist for whom to uniquely design one (or more) of the free postcards issued by An Post to every household, using or responding to words from the poem Still by FELISPEAKS (www.felispeaks.

com), which strikingly reflects on the experience of Lockdown. The project afforded periods of reflection and contemplation as well as the joys of both creating something precious for someone else and receiving such a precious item in the post as a keepsake and reminder of these times.

Anna Marie Savage, initiator of the project, says: “As mental health, communication and love #grá is key to every human being’s wellbeing especially during the Covid pandemic I felt that sending a postcard was our way, as artists to express that. #grá/love for our fellow people will always overcome.”

Thank you for keeping our town tidy!

Volunteers in Faughart.

Brendan who did a litter pick on their patch around the Ramparts and Centenary Road.

Walter, Tommy and Sean help out

Ollie helps out at the Ramparts and

Centenary Road.

on the Dublin Road.

More helpers at Faughart.

11

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

Family Notices deaths

novena

novena

short Betty Shortt, late of Market Street, Dundalk. Died 8th February, in Capetown. She is survived by her daughter Carol of Capetown and her son Alan in Doncaster UK. Sadly missed and loved by her cousins, Christine Larkin Dundalk; Pat Larkin, Boston; Naoise Mulcahy, Limerick; Ciara, Siobhan and Garrett Collins, Dundalk. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.

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). F.D. 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). A.R. 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.McC.

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). A.R. Prayer to Saint Expedite I call forth the Power and the presence of St. Expedite in my time of financial trouble. I offer my body, heart, mind and soul upon your alter of light. I have faith and trust and complete confidence that you will be my strength in this time of need.

Quickly come to my assistance.

Bring to me . . . (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you). My financial need is urgent. Be my Light and Guide in this situation so that I may live with peace, love, prosperity and abundance and in the Praise of God. Amen A.R.

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

A DUNDALK man who has been working remotely due to Covid-19 has said he is not surprised at new research which shows over half of businesses in Ireland are planning to adopt remote working on a permanent basis.

Patrick Labaki from Dunmore is currently living in Cork City and working as a Data Analyst for technology giant Apple.

The 27-year-old moved to Cork City three years ago and has been working with Apple for the past 18 months.

“I’ve been working remotely for the past 12 months.

There was a brief interlude when the numbers were low and we went back into the office for a month,” he said.

“But then we got sent home again. A lot of people who work remotely enjoy the benefits of it such as not having to commute to work.

special services

planning

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor.

087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

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

Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

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Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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

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

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

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

Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472.

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

Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633.

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

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

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

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

M K Sand & Gravel—Centrepoint Business Park, Carrickcarnon, Dundalk.

Plastering Sand, Builder’s Sand, Stone, Decorative Stone, Top soil, Wood Chip Mulching and Blocks, Deliveries available Tel 087 6938428/ 085 1472966.

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

articles wanted Wanted—Dundalk FC European Ticket stubs 1980s & 1970s, especially v Wettingen & Red Star Belgrade. Also chasing Rep of Ireland Ticket stubs 1990s back. Contact Ger 086 2630363.

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

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words two or three weeks because it Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. was a novelty. It’s fun for the first few weeks.

“For me personally, I miss the interaction with co-workers in the office and I don’t like being in the same room for large periods of the day.”

The research on industry sentiment following a year of Covid-19 restrictions was carried out by CIPD Ireland, a professional body for HR learning and development, in conjunctions with the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick.

The survey of more than 400 members of the Irish HR sector found 51 per cent of businesses are planning to maintain a model that involves working from home post-pandemic.

He explained: “If lockdown continued for a couple more years and I had the option to work remotely on a permanent basis then I’d consider moving back to Dundalk.”

Patrick missing interaction with his co-workers

By Tamara O’Connell

PROPERTY/RENTALS

SELL IT THROUGH A

CLASSIFIED

Patrick Labaki.

“If Covid-19 wasn’t a factor and you had a laptop instead of a desktop you could be portable and work outside your home.”

Patrick added: “I enjoyed working remotely for the first

For Classified Listings and general advertising enquiries on 042 932 0888 or email: advertising@dundalleader.com.

Deadline 4pm Friday.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

12

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

13

recent deaths Wheelie Bins

MURPHY Harry (Henry) (Church- in-law Jong, Sandra’s partner Tommy, missed and remembered with love former colleagues, students and betown and formerly of Carlingford) brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, neph- by his parents Jean & Anthony, sister loved canine companion Trixie-Belle.

– died peacefully surrounded by his ews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and Sinéad, brothers Jonathan & Padráig, Jim GRILLS Rathcor, Riverstown, family at Our Lady’s Hospice, Harold’s friends.

Sinéad’s partner John & Jonathan’s Cross. Harry will be sadly missed by Anne (Nan) Clarke Edmonstown, fiancé Nuala, aunties, uncles, cous- Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully, at home, his loving wife Leonie, daughters, Ao- Ardee, Co. Louth. Peacefully at her ins and his wide circle of wonderful surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Anne (nee Fearon), dad to ife-Jane and Olivia, his adored grandfriends. residence in her 92nd year. PredeNicola and granda to James and Eoin. children, Henry (Harry), Noah, Laila ceased by her husband Paddy and Bernie DEERY (née Lennon), Tuites and Daniel, sons-in-law Adrian and Predeceased by his sister Evelyn. He her beloved daughter Priscilla. Sadly Lane, Blackrock, Louth and formerly Conor, his brothers and sisters Jim, missed by her loving family, daugh- of Scotchgreen, Kilcurry, Co. Louth. will be sadly missed by his sorrowNuala, Lyn, Ciaran, Peter, Eamonn, ters Sr. Mary Teresa (RSC), Claire and Peacefully at home surrounded by ing wife, daughter, son-in-law Paddy, Anne and Marie, nieces, nephews, Frieda, son Robert, daughter-in-law her family. 11th March 2021. Bernie, grandchildren, Uncle Herbie (Christrelatives, neighbours and friends.

Anne, son-in-law Des and Claire’s daughter of the late Paddy and mas), brother Tom, brothers-in-law, Dan Prenty “Cornfield” Dublin Road, partner Colm, grandchildren Aishling, Eileen, loving wife and best friend of sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relaDundalk and formerly of Mayo Abbey, Áine, Philip, Emma, Louise, Colin, Ker- Daniel, devoted mother of Dónal and tives and friends.

Co. Mayo. Peacefully at home, sur- ri, Sinead and Darragh, great-grand- Matthew and sister of Paddy, Charlie, rounded by his family. Dan (Retired children Kaleb, Ellen, Niamh, Mason Briege, Joseph, and Dermot. Bernie Frank Gorman Stickillen, Ardee, Co. An Garda Siochána) beloved husband and Iarla, sisters-in-law Angela Walsh will be sadly missed by her husband, Louth. Peacefully at Moorehall Lodge, of Beatrice née Keane dear father of and Sheila Murtagh, nephews, nieces, sons, brothers, sister, brother-in-law, Ardee. Frank is predeceased by his Declan, Donal, Ann, Paul, Brendan, relatives and friends. sisters-in-law, aunts Rita and Ter- wife Betty and sister Kathleen, he will Niall and Beatrix, loving grandfather esa, nephews, nieces, relatives and be sadly missed by his brother Kevin, of Ronan, Cait, Elle, Tommy, Brendan, Johnny O’HAGAN McDonald’s Ter- friends. nephew Michael, extended family, Caroline, Elliot, Finn, brother of El- race, Armagh Road, Dundalk, Louth. James Carolan Drogheda and neighbours and friends. len, Sadie and the late Molly, John, Peacefully, in the gentle and dedi- formerly of Corbollis, Readypenny, Michael and Jimmy, and father in law cated care of the staff of Louth County Dundalk. 10th March 2021. Unex- Evelyn Moynagh née Boyd, “Corof Heidi, Patricia, Lorraine, Rachael, Hospital. Predeceased by his parents pectantly at Our Lady of Lourdes alee” Castle Road, Dundalk. Peacefully Mouna and Paul. Dan will be sadly John and Mary, sister Úna and broth- Hospital. James, loving husband of in the wonderful care of St Oliver’s missed by his wife, sons, daughters, ers Seamus, Larry, Fred, Frank, Tom, Sheila, loving stepfather to Lisa and Nursing Home. Evelyn beloved wife grandchildren, sisters, son-in-law, Paddy and Arthur. He will be sadly brother of Briege. Sadly missed by of the late Patrick J., loving mother of daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, missed by his sisters-in-law, neph- his loving family, son-in-law Paul, Jim, Karen and Anna, devoted granny ews, nieces, relatives and friends. relatives and friends. brother-in-law Davy, nephew Gary, of David and Aoife and sister of the Peter McGUINNESS Manydown nieces Sharon and Lynn, sisters-in- late Renee, Billy and John. Evelyn will Michael O’NEILL-MOCKLER St. Mary’s Road, Dundalk, Louth. Peace- Close, Red Barns Road, Dundalk, Louth law, brothers-in-law, relatives, neigh- be sadly missed by her son, daughters, fully, in the gentle and dedicated care / Drogheda, Louth. Beloved husband bours, family and friends. grandchildren, son-in-law Martin, of the staff of St. Oliver’s, Dundalk. of Lisa (née Farrell) and dear dad of McKenna Jim (James) Crumlin and daughter-in-law Paola, sister-in-law Predeceased by his parents Kathleen Sean and Saoirse. Predeceased by his late of Ardee, Co. Louth, peacefully; Deirdre, nephews, nieces, relatives and Michael and wife Pamela. He parents Frank and Elsa (late of Trinity beloved husband of Alice and the late and friends. will be sadly missed by his sorrowing Gardens) Drogheda, brother Francis, Tina, much loved dad of Violet, John, daughters Dearbhla and Niamh, son sisters Bridie, Sindy and Margaret. David, Michele and Darren and loving Bridie McDERMOTT (née Duffy), Mc Conn, brother-in-law Damien, neph- He will be sadly missed by his heart brother of the late Frank, Alice and Swiney Street, Dundalk, Louth. Peacebroken wife, son, daughter, brothers ews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May. Sadly missed by his loving wife, fully in her 96 year surrounded by her Thomas, Patrick, John and Michael, Michael Marmion Kilcurry, Dunchildren, grandchildren Dave, Christi- family in the love and tender care of sisters Erica, Vivienne and Michelle, dalk. Peacefully in the wonderful na, James, Ethel and Caoimhe, broth- St. Oliver’s Hospital. Predeceased by mother in-law Eileen, Sean’s partner care of Carlingford Nursing Home. ers Eugene and Sean, son-in-law Vin- her husband Eugene, brother Peter, Shannon, brothers and sisters in9th March 2021. Michael, son of the cent, daughters-in-law Linda & Jane, sisters Margie Duffy, Kathleen McArlaw, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, late Michael and Kathleen, much the O’Callaghan family, especially dle, May Conway and Tennie Coburn, extended family relatives, his colloved husband of Iris née Fitzgerald, Margaret and Peter Jubb, sisters-in- Bridie will be sadly missed by her leagues in the Defence Forces, wondear father of Michael, Sandra, Joe law Mary, Angela and her husband loving family, son Joseph, daughters derful friends and neighbours. and Raymond, granddad of Darren, Safir, brothers-in-law Jimmy, Peter Mary Grimes, Angela Woods and MarGavin and Cian and brother of May, Graham Gorham late of St. Nicolas and his wife Mary, Declan and his Gerry, Anna, Danny, Davy, Ken and Avenue & Dromiskin, Dundalk, Louth. wife Ann, Sean and his wife Angela, garet Dunne, sons in-law Frank and the late Alphonsus, Joe, Phil, Marga- Peacefully, surrounded by his loving Francie and his wife Kathleen, the Sean, daughter in-law Ann, grandret, and Monica. Michael will be sadly family, in the exceptional care of the Smith family of Ardee, the Campbell children, great-grandchildren, nephmissed by his wife, sons, daughter, staff in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospi- family of Tullymore, nieces, nephews, ews, nieces extended family relatives, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, son- tal, Drogheda. Graham will be sadly extended family, neighbours friends, wonderful friends and neighbours.

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Dundalk Tidy Towns volunteers cleaning up around Tom Bellew Avenue.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

14

Shane raring to go ahead of new season

Newly appointed Dundalk manager Shane Keegan admits last Friday night’s Presidents Cup victory over Shamrock Rovers has whetted the appetite of all at the club ahead of what promises to be a very competitive season.

The 2021 season kicks off this weekend with the Carrick Road side facing a tricky opener away to Sligo Rovers but the whole squad will be in confident mood according to Shane following a penalty shootout victory over fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers in Tallaght last Friday.

“Yeah, it was a very worthwhile exercise for us and to come out on top having played half an hour of the game with ten men was very satisfying.

It was a real tough game and I thought our new guys did very well with Sonni scoring the goal, Alessio saving two penalties in the shootout and Sam Stanton who I thought was excellent on the night. Pre-season for us was about letting the new players gel in and games like that one at Friday night will do the world of good in terms of confidence and player camaraderie,” explained Shane.

The affable Laois native joined Dundalk just over a year ago taking up the role as opposition analyst and over the past year he has quickly established himself as a key part of the Dundalk coaching staff. Last week in a shock announcement Dundalk sporting director Jim Magilton announced a reshuffle of the coaching staff with Keegan promoted to the role

as head coach taking over from Filippo Giovagnoli.

Magilton did say that responsibility will be shared within the entire coaching structure but that that the final decisions will be down to Keegan. According to the former Wexford and Galway manager he can see why the announcement caused such a reaction but he is determined to show that this novel approach can be successful.

“There was obviously quite a bit of talk about the new set up but at the end of the day I will be working alongside Filippo and Giuseppe as well as the rest of the coaching staff and we will all be working together to do the best for Dundalk FC.I guess opposition fans will be hoping the whole thing fails spectacularly but that’s to be expected and all I know is that Dundalk fans will be fully behind us as soon as the

new season kicks off.

“It’s going to be a very competitive season and I think it’s good that there is that rivalry between ourselves and Shamrock Rovers. I grew up watching loads of different sports and what got me into them was the narratives and rivalries that existed between teams. There is nothing wrong with a good old-fashioned rivalry as long as it doesn’t go too far,” stated Shane.

“We have a very tough opening set of fixtures with Sligo, Bohs, Shamrock Rovers and St Pats to play in our opening five games. We need to hit the ground running and I am confident we can do that. I hope we can give our fans plenty to cheer about this season and as I say I can’t wait to get started,” added the newly appointed Dundalk head coach.

A report by Mental Health Ireland has highlighted the impact of home schooling on the mental health of Irish households with many parents report feeling more stressed and less confident as a result of the experience. There were some positives however with six in ten parents saying they felt more connected to their children as a result of spending more time at home.

A poll carried out by RED C for Mental Health Ireland saw that almost a quarter of Irish households have been home schooling under Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions.

Along with concerns relating to Covid-19 and financial problems, home schooling proved to be the next most stressful con-

cern for many Irish parents.

The poll showed that almost 70% of parents voiced selfdoubt as they compared themselves to other parents’ experience of home schooling.

The poll discovered that 2 in 5 parents home schooling are sleeping and exercising less, and 1 in 5 say their alcohol consumption has increased.

This stress was compounded by the competing demands of housework and isolation felt by many families. The Mental Health Ireland/RED C survey discovered that 70% of children had no social contacts outside of their immediate family during the latest lockdown.

Martin Rogan, CEO of Mental Health Ireland said, “While families across Ireland continue

to show great resilience and resourcefulness in coping with recent challenges, it’s telling that 70% felt that they weren’t doing as well as other parents. These feelings may have been heightened by use of social media and scrolling through filtered images of tidy homes, smooth scheduling and productive afternoons when the reality is very different.”

Mr Rogan added, “Schools have worked hard to respond to the challenges of home schooling using a variety of different online and remote formats, however 45% of respondents felt that there was no mental health or wellbeing content in the home schooling lessons when this should be prioritised in supporting our young people.”

New Car Sales Figures “While new car sales were slightly up when compared to February last year, they are down 11% year to date and down 18% on 2019. Strong pre-orders at the end of last year along with the ability to offer a click and deliver service have helped the Industry, as has the reduced VAT rate during the first two months of the year, which has brought some March sales forward. Looking ahead to March, with most year-end pre-orders having been fulfilled, the increased VAT rate and with the absence of car hire, it is anticipated that the month ahead will be a

challenging one for the Industry.” Brian Cooke, SIMI. New car registrations for February were up 5.30% (13,834) when compared to February 2020 (13,138). Registrations year to date are down 10.97% (38,986) on the same period last year (43,788).

Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are up 51.30% (3,315) compared to February last year (2,191) and year to date are up 6.39% (8,339). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 15.8% (224) in comparison to February 2020 (266). Year to date HGV’s are down 9.5% (563).

New team manager Shane Keegan raring to go ahead of new season.

Photo Credit: Dundalk FC

62% of parents felt more stressed after home schooling

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

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Used car imports for February (5,757) have seen a decrease of 7.04% on February 2020 (6,193). Year to date imports are down 1.84% (12,579) on 2020 (12,815).

New electric car registrations increased for the month of February with 813 registered compared to 390 on the same month last year. While so far this year 1,791 new electric cars were registered in comparison to 1,281 on the same period last year an increase of 39.81%. Both Hybrid and Plug in Hybrid continue to increase their market share.

Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021

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Dundalk Leader 17th March 2021