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DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER New beginnings for Dundalk FC Page 4

Fergal raises over €6,000 for Autism Page 6

Louth In-Bloom awards ceremony Page 8

Wednesday, 17th November, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 46 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

€140m budget gets the green light

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

By Tamara O’Connell

Louth County Council (LCC) adopted its budget for 2022 at a meeting held in Dundalk on Monday, November 15. The meeting - which took place in St Gerard’s Hall, St Alphonsus Road - saw the budget pass by 20 votes to six. All of the Sinn Fein councillors at the meeting voted against the budget, which provides for an expenditure of €140.3 million – an increase of €9.8 million on this year. Commercial rates and pay parking charges will remain unchanged next year. Speaking at the meeting LCC Chief Executive Joan Martin said “the bottom line is we are still operating off the same basic income. It doesn’t leave a lot of room for manoeuvre”. “There are increased costs and a high rate of inflation…We are hoping that when things settle down after the pandemic, we will be in a better position to move into the alignment of rates in the 2023 budget. Continued on Page 2

Ann, Rose and Fidelma from the North Louth Hospice accept a cheque from Mícheál Stanley and Gerry Curtis for €3031.50 on Monday morning. The money was raised from the tenth annual Poker Classic which was held in the Lisdoo on Sunday evening.

€140m budget gets the green light Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

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From page 1 “The other black hole sitting over me when getting the budget ready are extra costs such as hand sanitiser and extra laptops.” Ms Martin added that the local authority’s income for 2021 is down at least €1 million, mostly because of pay parking losses arising from Covid. Green Party Cllr

Marianne Butler put forward a proposal that the Municipal Allocation of €75,000 for each of the three districts in the county be changed to €30,000 per district with the balance divided by the number of councillors in each district. Fianna Fail Councillor John Sheridan spoke out against the proposal, which was ultimately defeated. He compared it to

school with the big kids in class wanting to take lunch money off the little kids. “Ardee is the smallest in class with only six councillors. What can we do if the big kids decide to take money off us?” he said. Meanwhile, the key focus on the Directorate in the coming years will be the delivery of the objectives and targets set out

in the Government’s new Housing Strategy – “Housing for All” which was launched in September. For the five-year period from 2022-2026, LCC have a delivery target of 1,357 units of which 694 units are to be delivered in 2022. Delivery will in the main be focused on new build units in partnership with Approved Housing Bodies.

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North East reaches 50,000 COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic The Department of Public Health HSE North East have seen a significant rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the North East in recent weeks. More than 55,000 COVID-19 cases have been reported in the North East since the first cases were reported in March 2020. The Department of Public Health North East are appealing to the public in the context of widespread transmission to do everything possible to stop this surge. It can only be achieved through collective action. We are therefore asking you to: stay at home if unwell and at least halve your social activities for the next 4 weeks. Dr Augustine Pereira, Di-

rector of Public Health North East, said: “The North East region has reached another milestone of COVID-19 cases, as the number of cases crossed 50,000. Over half of this was recorded during the fourth wave. With nearly 2500 cases every week and 3000 cases in week 45, it represents some of the highest number of cases per week we have experienced during the pandemic. I am appealing to you all to stay at home if you are unwell. People around you will Thank you for doing so. At this time, when there is widespread community transmission, I ask you all to halve your social contacts as much as possible. We all need to play our part and follow public health guidelines to

reduce community transmission in the region.” “The pandemic is not over yet, and we are urging the public to be extra vigilant and act responsibly, in order to minimise the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Activities contributing to the increase in cases recently include indoor gatherings, household visits, family gatherings, social activities and onward transmission from social events into workplaces and schools. When COVID-19 is circulating in the community, the best way of reducing the number of cases is to reduce the level of socialising and ensuring that if you have symptoms, you take every effort not to spread the infection.”

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Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

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New beginning for Dundalk FC

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Friday evening’s final game of the season at home to Derry City would normally be a bit of a damp squid given the fact that there is nothing left to play for after a disappointing season. However, thanks to the takeover of the club which was confirmed last Wednesday, there promises to be a carnival atmosphere in Oriel Park as the Lilywhite supporters celebrate the end of the turbulent Peak 6 reign while welcoming the new owners headed by former owner Andy Connolly and STATSports. The Peak 6 reign which began at the end of 2017 began well with Dundalk winning a double under Stephen Kenny in 2018 before Vinny Perth came within a penalty kick of winning a clean sweep in 2019. However, when chairman Mike Treacy stepped down at the end of 2019 and was replaced by Bill Hulsizer (father of Peak 6 owner Matt Hulsizer) things began to go sour. Following a number of questionable decisions regarding man-

Fans believe they now have their club back. ager recruitment and the sale of key players, fans began to turn on the board which culminated in a number of protests from supporters calling for Peak 6 to sell up. A poor league campaign this season which saw Dundalk sit in the relegation playoff spot for a period heightened the call for change and last week after months of negotiations it was finally confirmed that Peak 6’s reign had ended with the local consortium of Andy Connolly and STATSports taking control of the club. A statement from the club confirmed the news last Wednesday. “Dundalk FC can confirm that a local consortium has completed the acquisition of the club from PEAK6. Negotiations were concluded on Wednesday evening to return the club to local

hands after almost four years of ownership by a PEAK6-led group of investors. “During PEAK6’s tenure, the club won two SSE Airtricity League of Ireland titles, two FAI Cups, two FAI President’s Cups, the Unite the Union Champions Cup and also made history by becoming the first Irish club to qualify for the group stages of the UEFA Europa League on two occasions. “We are incredibly proud of all we achieved with Dundalk FC over these past several years,” said Matt Hulsizer, co-founder and managing partner of PEAK6. “We purchased Dundalk FC in 2018 because we love football and saw the potential to reinvigorate the team through an influx

of capital and strategic leadership. “During our tenure, we had the opportunity to get to know the town, the club, and most importantly, the passion that local fans have for the club. “That’s why we’re so pleased to have found a group of buyers who have local ties and a deep-rooted history with Dundalk FC. I have no doubt they will continue to support the success of the club going forward, and we will continue rooting for the club’s success right alongside the fans.” “The local consortium would like to thank PEAK6 for their professionalism and diligence during the negotiations and wish them well in the future. “Further details, and plans for the 2022 season, will be unveiled next week with an emphasis on strengthening links with the fans and the local community. This is an exciting moment in Dundalk Football Club’s long and proud history. Here’s to a new beginning… ,”concluded the statement.

Access to rent supplement for victims of domestic violence to become permanent—McGreehan Louth Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed the announcement by the Government that access to rent supplement for victims of domestic violence is to become permanent. The protocol to assist victims of domestic violence in accessing rent supplement was introduced in response to the Pandemic. Today, the Government has confirmed that the temporary measure will be made a permanent feature of the Rent Supplement Scheme. This measure ensures that victims of domestic violence can continue to get immediate access to rent supplement for a three month period to ensure that they are not prevented from leaving their home because of financial concerns. Senator McGreehan said, “This is very welcome. I worked

Senator Erin McGreehan. on the advice of Women’s Aid Dundalk at the beginning of the first lockdown to push for rent supplements to happen. It makes sense that it is going to be continued. It is another step along the way to protect and empower victims of domestic violence to escape to safety. “It must be remembered that when a victim moves from their home, it is the point where they

are at most risk of serious violence and there needs to be a wrap-around support for an entire family at this vulnerable time.” The usual rent supplement means test will not apply for this three month period. After the initial three-month period, a further three-month extension may be provided, subject to the usual rent supplement means assessment. After six months, if the tenant has a long-term housing need, they can apply to their local housing authority for social housing supports and, if eligible, will be able to access the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP), a social housing support provided by Local Authorities. The announcement follows a review of its impact since being introduced in August 2020.

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Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Fergal’s head shave for autism raises €6,580

There was a fabulous evening in the Avenue Bar recently when Dundalk man Fergal O’Hanlon shaved his head for a charity close to his heart. According to his wife Celine her husband wanted to help out a local charity which offers support to families who have children with special needs. “Fergal grew his hair for one year and had it all shaved off to raise money for Autism Awareness. This fundraiser was very close to our hearts as our six year old son Shane has autism,” explained Celine. Shane attends the Realt na Mara Autism Unit and all the money raised on the night was donated to the Autism Unit & SNAP (Special Needs Active Parents). SNAP is a charity organisation that was set up in 2004 by a group of parents who offer support

to families with children with special needs. The head shave took place in the Avenue Inn where Justin McArdle from Charlie’s barbers shaved Fergal’s hair on the night. Tony’s chippy in Greenacres kindly donated food and Fiona Guatier in Devenny’s donated stationery for the fundraiser. Realt Na Mara Autism Unit received a donation of €3,200 and SNAP received €2,030. As well as this Fergal’s work Anord Mardix kindly donated €1,350 to SNAP directly giving a total raised of €6,580. Celine and Fergal want to thank everyone who donated and to their friends and family who helped get sponsorship cards filled. The pair are already planning to do a bigger fundFergal O’Hanlon before his head shave (left) and with his wife Celine after getting his hair all shaved off. raiser next year so watch this space.

Fergal O’Hanlon makes a cheque presentation to Realt na Mara

SNAP receive a cheque from Fergal O’Hanlon.

Realt na Mara Fund-Raiser

Realt na Mara’s Halloween fundraiser ‘Trick or Treat for Temple Street’ raised €820 for Temple Street Children’s Hospital. The fundraiser was co-ordinated by the Student Council .

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Border Communities to oppose any use of Article 16 Border Communities Against Brexit (BCAB) has announced a series of demonstrations along the border to oppose the threat by the British Government to trigger Article 16. Speaking on Monday, Declan Fearon Chair of BCAB said; “Boris Johnson’s Government has been pur-

suing a reckless course in negotiations with the EU around the Protocol, including threats to trigger Article 16. “Recent British Government statements and actions are posing a very direct threat to the Peace Process, the all-island economy and raising once again the horrific prospect of a return to a Hard Border

in Ireland. We are calling on Boris Johnson to Back off, and to Protect and implement the Protocol. “Communities, businesses, workers, farmers and students along the border want the Protocol to be implemented in order to protect jobs, livelihoods and community life on

Border Communities against Brexit.

Witness Appeal: Burglary at Meadow Grove Gardaí in Louth are appealing for information following a burglary that occurred on Thursday, 11th November 2021 at a residence in the Meadow Grove area of Dundalk. The incident took place at approximately 6.15pm when a homeowner discovered two men inside his property. Thereafter, the two men quickly fled the scene. No items have been reported stolen and no damaged was caused. Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses to come forward to them. Any road users who were in the Meadow Grove, Ramparts, Marshes Lower and Inner Relief Road

areas between 5.45pm – 6.30pm on Thursday, 11th November, and who may have dash cam or video footage is asked to come forward to Gardaí. In particular, Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have seen two males getting into a dark coloured Audi A3 near Marshes Lower in Dundalk. It is believed the vehicle had a partial registration of 04 MH. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Dundalk Garda Station on 042 9388 400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

QUIZ 8—Which county is known as the Faithful County? 9—Name the only two popes who have visited Ireland? 10—Which metal costs three times as much as gold? The Stinker—Which US state shares its name with an independent country?

answers 1—8, 2—Queensland, 3—German, 4—Palm Trees, 5—Alaska, 6—Longford, 7—Alphonsus, Mary and Nicholas, 8—Offaly, 9—Pope John Paul II 1979, Pope Francis 2018, 10—Platinum. The Stinker: Georgia.

1—How many pints are there in one gallon? 2—Brisbane is the capital of which Australian state? 3—What nationality was Karl Marx? 4—What type of trees do dates grow on? 5—By land area, which is the largest state in the USA? 6—Which league of Ireland club did current Ireland senior men’s soccer manager Stephen Kenny begin his managerial career? 7—A, M and N are the initials of three Saints who have roads/ avenues named after them in Dundalk. Can you name the Saints?

this island. “Businesses, manufacturers and farmers are benefitting from the Protocol and thousands of jobs are being created and secured as a direct result of it. “The protocol has mitigated the worst effects of Brexit for communities such as ours. “The majority of people and political

parties in the North opposed Brexit and support the Protocol as the key mechanism to prevent a Hard Border and protect the all-island economy and Good Friday Agreement. “The dangerous and inflammatory rhetoric emanating from Boris Johnson’s Government is now undermining all of the progress we have

made in recent years. “They need to listen to the concerns of border communities, to businesses and to farmers who will be devastated by any triggering of Article 16. “Communities along the border are determined not to be dragged back to the past, it is shocking after years of Brexit

uncertainty for Border Communities, that a deal which was signed only a very short time ago is being torn apart. “We will not allow any re-imposition of a Hard Border and the untold social and economic damage this would cause. “We will not allow the Peace Process to be undermined.

“To this end BCAB has organised five demonstrations at various points along the border, for Saturday, 20th November at 3pm. Mobilisations will take place at the following points: Flurry Bridge, Carrickcarnon; Belcoo-Blacklion; Moybridge, Aughnacloy; Lifford Bridge; Bridgend, Derry.

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

P Louth In Bloom Awards Good turnout for o Virtual Awards Ceremony Carlingford regeneration On Wednesday 20th October Louth County council hosted a virtual Awards ceremony to announce the winners of LOUTH IN BLOOM 2021. This is the second year of the competition and the format remained the same as last year, given the restrictions of the pandemic. Louth County Council felt it was important that we acknowledge and recognise the marvellous work and dedication, which is undertaken by individuals, community/voluntary groups and the business sectors within our communities. Their contributions make a significant difference to making our county an attractive place to live and work. Prizes were given out in seven categories including housing estates, best gardens, hospitality and business premises, best biodiversity award

A s i s S ( g s o t e

By Tamara O’Connell

Willow Grove Dundalk Overall county winner Best Estate Category B. and a lifetime achievement award. The awards ceremony began with Chief Executive, Joan Martin, congratulating all the prize winners and warmly praising all those who took part in Louth in Bloom 2021 Competition. The Chief Executive remarked that it is one of the highlights in the council’s calendar, adding that she “really admires the many people throughout the

county who work so hard to maintain and enhance their towns and villages. It is one of the reasons Louth do so well in the National Tidy Towns competition each year”. The Cathaoirleach/ Mayor from each Municipal District announced and congratulated the winners from their areas, across the seven categories. The overall county winners were announced

by Louth County Council Cathaoirleach, Pio Smyth who also announced a special Lifetime Contribution award for Gerry McArdle, Tullyallen Tidy Towns. Councillor Smith offered his “congratulations to all the entrants for their hard work despite the restrictions of the pandemic”and commented “you have excelled yourselves and have done your county proud”.

Louth County Council (LCC) Senior Executive Officer Alan Sherry said “a steady stream of people” attended the drop-in public consultation event on the Living in Carlingford-Visiting Carlingford regeneration plan. The drop-in public consultation event took place in the Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford on Tuesday, November 9 from mid-day to 8pm. Representatives from LCC and consultants RPS were available to discuss the project and answer queries. “We were pleased with the response. There was a steady stream of people all day and there was a high level of engagement on their part,” said Alan. “The people there were very keen to share their thoughts about what was good and

There was a good turnout for the Carlingford Regeneration meeting. w d m b a n c

A view of Carlingford from the skies. bad about the place and how they see the future for Carlingford.” He added: “Traffic was a huge issue for the people there. They’d like to see change and better traffic management. “On the positive

side, there is a huge sense that Carlingford is a wonderful place to be because of the natural beauty of the area. “It’s a medieval town steeped in history and it has the sea and mountains also.” Meanwhile, a web-

N T C a d S s m site has been launchedt which includes a virtuali conference room witht information boards and a portal for visitors tot submit their ideas onh the project. f The portal will beM open until Friday, No-t vember 26. r

Louth In Bloom Awards

St. Francis School Blackrock, Best Biod iversity project category.

Eugene O’Shaughnessy, Dundalk 2nd place Best Garden Category.

Dundalk MD Cathaoirleach Maria Doyl e presenting John Conachy, with 1st prize & Overall County winner in the best garden category.

ented Hospitality Premises catRosemount B&B Dundalk Best Pres egory

Quinns Funeral Home Dundalk, Best Presented Business Premises category.

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Principal feels compromised over Department SNA request

An ‘upset’ national school principal is refusing to make the impossible decision to take a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) off one child to give to another because, she says, the Department of Education has refused to allocate more resources to the school. Anne Marie Ford who wants to integrate children with autism into mainstream classes has been told to ‘reprioritise’ and choose between vulnerable children in allocating existing SNAs. The principal of Scoil Naomh Colmcille in Tullydonnell, Togher, Co. Louth is passionate about integrating children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) as soon as possible into mainstream education dto allow them to become lindependent and realise htheir potential. d The school currently oteaches 24 children who nhave a diagnosis of ASD, from all over Louth and eMeath, in four early in-tervention classes at the rural facility.

Anne- Marie Ford (third from left in back) with other staff members of the early intervention classes. Back: Stephen Breen, Rebecca O’Hare, Anne Marie Ford, Linda Mc Donnell; Front row: Kelly Lynch, Tara Grennan and Jenny Flood. However the school says that the Department of Education has refused to give the school extra SNAs to facilitate moving children with ASD into mainstream classes and instead, has told Ms Ford to reallocate already scarce resources through ‘re-prioritisation of those with the greatest needs receiving the greatest support’. Essentially, it means deciding to take an SNA from a child to give to another. The extra supports were refused after the enrolment of children with Autism from early intervention, where they

had been allocated their own SNAs into the mainstream school, a move which was celebrated by both parents and staff. “I thought it would have been logical to just continue to support these children through their early years in school in order to sustain their progress but instead, I was asked to make a decision to choose from my most vulnerable pupils to allocate my existing SNAs,” said Ms Ford. “I feel very compromised and upset about being put in this position and I feel I should not be making clinical decisions which could be

detrimental to the physical and mental health of my pupils. “Sacrificing one child’s needs to support those of another is very divisive. It leaves parents feeling very guilty knowing their child is accessing support at the expense of other children. “All research illustrates the benefits of early intervention in the prognosis of ASD and this was clearly demonstrated by the progress these children made while in the early intervention class here. “Now they are being penalised for their achievement by taking their existing SNA from them and asking us to support them from resources already allocated to other children.” A meeting will take place in the Monasterboice Inn on Thursday, 18th of November at 8pm for families of children with ASD. Limited places available. Free tickets may be accessed on Eventbrite.

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Larry gets his book back after almost six decades!

Larry O’Hagan and Robbie Rafferty were playing with Everton’s minor team in the Dundalk Minor League in 1963 when the former gave the latter a lend of his recently acquired Topical Times Football Annual. The book which Larry got as a Christmas present remained in Robbie’s possession for almost six decades until it was finally returned to its rightful owner last Friday over a cup of tea in the Copper Kettle. According to Larry he had forgotten all about the book and was shocked to find the book inside the bag given to him by Robbie in the coffee shop. “Myself and Robbie go back years to the days when we played in the Dundalk Minor League for a subsidiary team of Rangers FC called Everton. At the beginning of the 63/64 season I gave him a lend of a book I had received the previous Christmas called The Topical Times Football Annual and as the years passed I guess we both forgot that he had never

Larry O’Hagan and Robbie Rafferty. given it back to me. Last Friday I got a call from Robbie asking me to meet him in the Copper Kettle in Dundalk and when I got there he told me he had something for me. I had no clue what was in the bag and when I opened it there was the same copy of the Topical Times I had given him 58 years earlier when we were just

teenagers. “We had a great laugh about it and I asked him if he was sure I had given him enough time to read it and if he wanted to hang on to it for another while longer,” laughed Larry. “I spent last weekend going through the book and it brought back some great memories for me. Robbie’s the nicest fella

you could meet and I suppose he stumbled across it recently and decided that he had better return the book to me. Luckily for him it wasn’t a library book as I’m sure it would have racked up a fair bit of money in fines. I guess the moral of the story here is to never give up hope!,” stated Larry with a smile.

event took place in Market Square Dundalk last week and we would like to thank everybody who donated donate to this amazing cause’. The girls have so far raised €1660 and

have left the page open for people to donate. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. You can donate online by visiting: gofundme. com/f/simon-community-dundalk.

Students raise over €1,600 for sleep-out in aid of Simon Community By Ben Tumulty

Seven students based in DKIT have raised over €1600 by completing a sleep out on the streets in support of the Dundalk Simon Community. The students Amy, Colleen, Michaela, Denise, Sorcha, Michelle and Shauna, launched the fundraising campaign on the website GoFundMe as part of their ‘Fourth Year Mental Health Nursing’ project. The Simon Community was founded in 1963. Its Dundalk Branch is located in Yorke Street and offers services and support to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness through its popular charity shop. Organiser Amy Norris said: ‘We believe this

Sleep Out for Simon. is a brilliant charity that helps out many homeless people everyday’. Sorcha Harrigan, who also helped organise the charity sleep out, added: ‘Our fundraising

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Kittens saved by dog after callous act Animal lover Joe McLoughlin has described the person who dumped six kittens on a beach leaving them for dead as callous and heartless. The six kittens were in a box with a concrete block on top to prevent them getting out and were left on the beach in Annagassan on Sunday. Thankfully the kittens were saved from near certain death when a man who was walking on the beach was alerted to the kittens presence by his dog who ran over to the box to sniff out what was inside the box. According to Joe McLoughlin, owner of Joe’s Deli in Castlebellingham the kittens would have either drowned or suffocated had the man not come across the box while out walking. “My friend was out walking on the beach about 4:30 on Sunday

The kittens were found on Annagassan beach. afternoon in Annagassan when his dog made a beeline for this box that was lying on the sand. He went to investigate and thankfully saved the six kittens from almost certain death when he found them inside the box. He then rang me as he knows that myself

and my wife Tess are animal lovers and that we might be able to help him find a new home for the kittens. When he told me what he had found, my blood boiled to be honest. How could somebody be so callous and so heartless as to try and kill six innocent

wee kittens like that? There really are some horrible people in this world,” stated Joe. “I put the pic of the six kittens up on our facebook page and through that we were contacted by Drogheda Animal Rescue Centre. They are now in the process of finding foster homes for the six kittens. Those poor kittens would have either suffocated or drowned and the person who put them in the box obviously could not have cared less about that. I cannot understand that mentality at all. Get your cat neutered or spayed if you don’t want kittens. It is very cheap to do so and in fact some vets even do it for free, I’m sure. Thankfully there was a happy ending to this story, but it could have been very different had it not been for my friend and his dog,” stated Joe.

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

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Annual Bric-a-Brac for Dundealgan AC

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Dundealgan Athletic Club in Seatown will hold their annual Bric-a-Brac on Saturday 20th November, 11am-2pm. Large selection of Bric-a-Brac. Proceeds to club funds.

Christmas Fayre this Sunday

‘Christmas Fayre’ will take place this Sunday 21st November 20121 between 10am and 4:30pm in the Imperial Hotel, Dundalk. Craft stalls, skincare, perfume, flower arrangements, handbags, dog treats, crystals, jewellery, baby clothing, Christmas items and lots more. Raffle on day with a great range of amazing prizes. All proceeds in aid of Save Our Homeless Dundalk. Contactalishamcelvaney@hotmail.com for further details

Wheelie Bins

Prayer Group this Saturday Dundalk, Co. Louth

Wheel Bin Collections

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Looking for direction in your life? Come along to Contagious for Christ conference on Saturday 20th November in Kilkerley Community Centre. Personal testimonies, preaching, teaching and healing. All welcome. For further details telephone 0429374125.

Tree planting ceremony in St Patrick’s

There will be a tree planting ceremony in the garden of St Patrick’s cathedral on 21st November to remember all those who have passed away due to Covid-19. The ceremony will be attended by Bishop Michael Router, Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh.

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Festival 2021

Zoo Zoom with the National Reptile Zoo: Online workshop via Zoom on Thursday November 18th at 4pm. This is a fun educational experience for everyone involved as you get to meet some amazing animals up close and learn all about them. Nutritious Meals for Families on a Budget with Ciall Health: Online webinar via Zoom on Thursday November 18th at 7pm. This webinar is for parents of families who want to learn how to eat nutritiously on a budget. A resource pack (slides, meal and recipe ideas) will be available to the attendees after the event. Go Fly Your Kite: Online workshop on Saturday November 20th at 3pm. Join George for a great workshop which combines science, art and creativity as you learn to design, build and perhaps even fly your own kite. Packs will be provided for collection from your local branch library. Process of Coping with your Child’s Diagnosis - when your child has a neurodiverse diagnosis: This pre-recorded video workshop is presented by Counsellor and Psychotherapist Fiona Hall MIACP who is also Mum to a child with double diagnosis. This workshop looks at the emotional difficulties and challenges parents face when coming to terms with the diagnosis. This video is available to watch on social media. For further information contact Dundalk Library at Tel: 042 9353190 or Email : libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.

Got a Story? We want to hear from you Phone: 0429320888 Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Family Notices in memoriam

novena

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

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

SNAP are a voluntary group based in Dundalk. The aim of this exciting new project is to engage and support young people with additional needs, in their personal development and mental wellness through the medium of outdoor activities. Their objectives are to encourage teamwork with the kids, develop communication skills, motor skills, and more importantly, life skills, while providing activities that children of all abilities can enjoy together. They hope to achieve these objectives by organising small outdoor events to introduce skills required for hiking and camping while working as a team in doing so. The project began with a 5km hike along the Annaloughan loop in the scenic Cooley mountains, during

special services

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

FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229. Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501. BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE—Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529. ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof—tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827. Carpentry & Joinery—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110. CARPET & OVEN CLEANING— Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie. Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE—Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086109-7358.

Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach. 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. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Ph: 042 932 0888. WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/ Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478. Fifi’s Alterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 0118728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Wed 9.30 - 5.30pm, Thur & Fri 9.30 - 6pm & Sat 10-2pm. GARDENING, LANDSCAPING— Hedge trimming & new hedges sowed, flower beds tided up and new bulbs planted, general property maintenance and decking cleaned. Dundalk & District. Tel. 086 3818184. J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775. WEDDING CAKES—Cakes for all occasions: Christmas, Anniversaries, Christenings, Birthdays, Confirmations/Communions, etc. All made by Chef, reasonable prices Tel 087 3228790. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

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SNAP is getting active

Special Needs Active Parents (SNAP) is a voluntary community group based in Dundalk. The group is comprised of over 60 families with children and young adults with physical/ sensory and intellectual disabilities. The aims of the group are to provide social, recreational and development opportunities for the children, while also creating a space for parents to gain support and information from each other. With this in mind SNAP has begun a new project called SNAP Active, to bring the families together in a safe, fun and friendly environment while getting active at the same time. SNAP Active is the brain-child of Gary Collins, a member of the army reserves and also a family member of SNAP. Gary regularly enjoys the outdoor life with his son Cathal and wanted to bring their adventures to the wider SNAP community.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

which the group took a break to find their location on a map of the area and to prepare food and enjoy their surroundings SNAP Active, spearheaded by Gary, hope to continue and build on these wonderful adventures over the course of six months with the children and young adults taking part gaining more and more confidence in their efforts to learn these new skills for outdoor life. SNAP Active is also an amazing opportunity for members to raise much needed funds for the organisation through sponsorship or hosting fundraising events. For anyone wishing to donate to this very worthy cause, they can do so by visiting SNAP’s website at https://snapireland.net

Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927. 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. 2 SEAT SOFA & 2 FIRESIDE CHAIRS—Grey fabric. Sold separately or together. Tel. 032 935 2962—between 2pm and 7pm. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING— Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com <mailto:tribalky@yahoo.com>. CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799. WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>. HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www. everkleenservices.ie <http://www. everkleenservices.ie>. TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work - marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote. GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES— Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact—Ben 085840-7707. MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT— Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.

tuition

MATHS GRINDS—Leaving and junior certificate. All levels. One on one tuition with an experienced tutor. Phone/text 083 094 1872.

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to over 50,000 readers from only €5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021

Blackstone Motors steps up to sponsors Louth GAA As main Renault Dealer for Louth and with a dealership in Drogheda and Dundalk, Blackstone Motors have sponsored Louth GAA with a brand new Renault Trafic van as the official kit van and an all new Renault Arkana as the official management car. The Renault Trafic kit van will be used to transport all GAA playing equipment to club and inter-county games along with training for kids and adults while the Renault Arkana will be used by the management team for all GAA activities. Noel Stewart, Managing Director of Blackstone Motors commented “Over the past ten years we have supported local clubs in Dun-

dalk and Drogheda with sponsorship and we are really excited to be partnering with Louth GAA. We have been surprised with the level of local support GAA receives in the county and for Blackstone Motors its our way of saying a

big thank you to all of our customers and supporters who also follow GAA in the county” This sponsorship coincides with Blackstone Motors also sponsoring Louth Ladies GAA as main sponsor. Donal Waters, Director of

Blackstone Motors said “ We are delighted to be sponsoring Louth GAA along with Louth Ladies GAA who we are main sponsor for the past few years. Hopefully like the Ladies the Lads we will get to a final in Croker soon “

‘Women of Independence’ is a filmed theatrical performance that presents the reallife experiences of four Irish women during the War of Independence through a cast of community actors. This performance, from an entirely female perspective, uses the real-life testimonies of Louth Women, Deirdre Spillane, Máire Fitzpatrick, Mary Kate Harte and Marie Lea-Wilson, to explore the female experiences of the War of Independence.

A follow up to ‘An Easter Service’ (2016) Women of Independence is Part II of the Remembrance Trilogy and is produced by An Táin Arts Centre and Upstate Theatre Project. Written by Conor McGinnity, An Táin Arts Centre’s Writer in Residence 2020 and featuring original music composed by Zoë Conway and James Mackin, An Táin Arts Centre’s Musician’s in Residence 2021 and directed by Paul Hayes. Director Paul Hayes

says “I first came across these four women’s stories over two years ago, but due to Covid-19 we had to re-imagine how we would tell them a number of times. I’m really excited for the public to hear these authentic female voices as all so often throughout Irish history women’s voices go unheard.” ‘Women of Independence’ is Part of the Louth Decade of Centenaries Programme 2021 funded by the Commemorations unit of the Department of of

Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, the Arts Council of Ireland, Creative Ireland and Create Louth. Women of Independence is available to watch online from Friday 3rd December at 8pm for 48 hours only and on the big screen in An Táin Arts Centre on Sunday 5th December at 8pm. Tickets cost €10 plus €1.50 booking fee per ticket/device. You can purchase tickets over the phone on 042 9332332 or online at www.antain.ie.

Louth Team Captain Sam Mulroy, Director of Blackstone Motors, Noel Stewart , Louth Senior Team manager Mickey Harte, Director of Blackstone Motors Donal Waters, Kitman for the Louth Team Tony Reynolds , Louth County Board Chairman Peter Fitzpatrick and Coach Gavlin Devlin at the handing over of a Renault Trafic Van and a Arkana Renault Car at Blackstone Motors Dundalk. Photo Jimmy Weldon.

‘Women of Independence’

Only one-third of drivers plan to buy traditional petrol or diesel car Only one-third of drivers plan to buy another standard petrol or diesel car, according to a recent poll by AA Ireland – but most of those who change will choose a hybrid rather than a fully electric car. The majority of the 8,241 drivers surveyed said that their next vehicle would not be a traditional ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle, but most are still reluctant to move to a fully electric vehicle. Most of the drivers polled currently own a petrol (39%) or diesel (51%) car, and just 34% of these drivers said they would buy another such vehicle. However, those who intend to change are three times more likely to pick a hybrid vehicle than a full EV. 2 in 5 (40%) of the current ICE drivers will go for a hybrid car next, compared to just 1 in 8 (12.5%) who say they’ll pick an EV. “It appears that drivers are still reluctant to make the move to a full Electric Vehicle” , said AA spokesperson Lauren Beehan. “Most say they would choose a hybrid – but this could be a stepping stone to buying a full EV in years to come, as current hybrid drivers are more than twice as likely to buy an EV for their next vehicle as petrol and diesel drivers are. It seems those who have already made the switch

to a hybrid or an EV are generally very happy with their choice, and almost none plan to go back to a fully ICE vehicle.” 90% of current EV owners plan to buy another EV, and 99% would not go back to ICE. 1 in 3 current hybrid owners say they will move to fully electric next time, while a further 63% plan to buy another hybrid. Only 1.8% of hybrid drivers say they are planning to buy a traditional petrol/diesel vehicle again. The most common factors in choosing not to buy an EV were the high purchase price of these vehicles (67%), worries about the range (46%), fear that charging takes too long (31%) and the lack of regular access to a charger (30%). The Government’s Climate Action Plan last week cemented high targets for EV penetration in the Irish market, planning for 1million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030. There are concerns about the acquisition of this technology. “The price of a new EV is still a major stumbling block for drivers, and many comments expressed concerns about the relatively small size of the second-hand market in Ireland so far. Almost 90% of those polled believe that EVs need to become cheaper to purchase, and over three quarters

would support increased government grants to purchase an EV”, added Beehan. “Other common concerns that people told us about were the conditions of the current charging network, fears of electricity shortages in the future, and the range of the vehicles.” Notably, around two-thirds of respondents said they drive less than 200km in an average week, which would be well within the range of most EVs on the market. 69% of those who are planning to buy an EV say they travel less than 200km a week, compared to 62% of those who say they would not buy one. Others mentioned that they had environmental doubts, mainly around the disposal of batteries and the fact that the national grid still uses fossil fuels to generate electricity. A small number commented that they were waiting for newer technology, such as hydrogen vehicles, and several said there is no suitable EV for the vehicle type they need (mainly due to needing to tow a trailer or horse box, or needing a wheelchair accessible vehicle). 9 in 10 want to see more public chargers installed, but fewer than 2 in 5 would support non-financial incentives for EV owners, such as access to bus lanes. By Lauren Beehan, AA Ireland

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Jimmy Weldon’s new book a genuine labour of love Drogheda’s best known photographer, Jimmy Weldon, has just taken delivery of his latest book – “Jimmy’s Times as a Photographer” which goes on sale next week and it is a genuine labour of love for the medium of photography and the people of Drogheda. The launch of “Jimmy’s Times as a Photographer” takes place on Friday night, November 19th at 8.00pm in the dHotel with Father Iggy O’Donovan doing the honours. Everyone is invited to the launch and Covid-19 restrictions will apply but if you can’t make it to the launch, or wish to purchase extra copies of the book as gifts, it will be available at the following shops from Thursday 18th November onwards: Wool Works, West Street, McCabes Shop, Duleek Street and Crimmins Giftwear in Shop Street. Otherwise Jimmy says he will personally deliver a copy of the book to your home – you can contact Jimmy (left) with Harry O’Reilly him on 086 8339 022.

For All Car Parts & Accessories Headlamps, Panels, Bumpers & Grills

For All Your Winter Motoring Needs Anti-Freeze, Coolant, De-Icer Etc.

T. 042 9331555/9331006 The Ramparts, Dundalk (formerly Martin's Garage)

Dundalk Leader 17th November 2021