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Dundalk get ready for Europa challenge

Page 8

Encore Productions return to An Táin

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Page 14

Teachers raise lockdown concerns

Wednesday, 21st October, 2020. Vol. 13, Issue 43 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

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

By Tamara O’Connell

As the country braces itself for the second lockdown of the year a local teachers union representative has issued her concerns about the government’s approach to testing and tracing.

Sophie makes history in Dalymount Park

Local INTO representative Catherine Flanagan said more needs to be done in schools and teachers need to feel safe ahead of the latest lockdown which will begin at midnight tonight.

She made her comments after INTO general secretary, John Boyle, described the Government’s approach to testing and tracing as “shambolic” on RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland.

Continued on Page 2

Local soccer star Sophie Watters made history on Sunday evening as she played for her club Bohemians against DLR Waves in the first ever Women’s National League match to be played at the famous old Dublin venue. Full story page 2.

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Louth football captain expresses concerns over player safety Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

2

Louth football captain Bevan Duffy has asked for more to be done to ensure the health and safety of players given the current state of affairs with regards to Covid-19. Speaking to local radio station LMFM the St Fechins clubman revealed that there had been zero testing for players ahead of Louth’s division three match with Cork last weekend in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Louth’s relegation to division four was confirmed after a heavy defeat to Cork on Saturday but captain Bevan Duffy was more con-

cerned with player safety when asked if he was happy making the trip to Cork with the country on the brink of moving to level five restrictions.

“I don’t understand, with the case numbers going up, the way things are all around the country, how GAA inter-county footballers are all of a sudden immune to this,” he said.

“We’ve teachers in that dressing room. We’ve lads living at home, a lot of lads living at home with their elderly parents.

“It doesn’t really make that much sense.”

Duffy went on to say that there hadn’t been any testing at all in the squad despite a rapid Covid-19 testing programme been rolled out earlier this year for inter-county teams to utilise if they felt it necessary.

“There hasn’t been any testing at all, which I can’t get my head around. Surely before the start of the National League campaign every inter-county squad should have been tested.

Simple as. That would take a lot of pressure off and put your mind at ease a bit, but you don’t know,” stated the concerned Louth captain.

Sophie makes history at Dalymount Park

Dundalk’s Sophie Watters took part in a little bit of history on Sunday afternoon when Bohemians and DLR Waves played the first ever Women’s National League game at Dalymount Park.

Sophie, who hails from Tom Bellew Avenue, made her longawaited return to action this season after enduring a couple of years recovering from injuries including a devastating ACL tear which kept her out of the game for two years. As a teenager Sophie made a name for herself with some brilliant performances for Shelbourne Ladies having signed for the Drumcondra club in 2016. That form led to numerous caps for the Ireland U19’s but her meteoric rise was halted following that ACL injury which saw her take a step back from the game.

Now however the 21 year old is back and raring to go having signed for Bohemians who are enjoying their debut season in the WNL. According to Sophie she is delighted to be back in action and excited for what the future holds for a Bohs side with

Sophie Watters in action at Dalymount Park on Sunday.

some very exciting young talent.

“I’m actually one of the oldest in the squad at 21 which shows you how young our team is. We’ve got some super talented teenagers in the team and I would guess we have the youngest average age in the league. It’s nice to be able to encourage and guide the younger players but

I have to remember that I am still learning as well and have lots more to improve on. It was tough being away from the game for so long but I have worked hard to get over my ACL injury and I was delighted to get the call from Bohs to sign with them. We usually play our home games in Oscar Traynor Park but we were able to play in

Dalymount on Sunday which was really exciting and very enjoyable for all the team. We’re hoping that it will become our permanent home but the club have to sort out availability and make sure there are no clashes with the men’s side.

“The women’s game is growing all the time and it’s great to see the national side doing so

well at the moment.

Obviously every player in the league wants to make the step up to play with the national side but for me I just want to get a good run of games under my belt and continue enjoying my football and maybe down the line we can start thinking about international call ups,” stated the former Quay Celtic star.

Bevan Duffy.

Teacher’s raise lockdown safety concerns From Page 1 “There’s different evidence in different parts of the country. Some schools I’ve spoken to have had different experiences,” said Catherine.

“Contact tracing is not in place as it should be. There needs to be a more robust campaign in place to explain to people when to isolate.”

Speaking on RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland, Mr Boyle said that school principals had been left for up to two weeks without contact tracing being completed when there were cases in their schools.

Mr Boyle said he did not think children would be returning to school after the Halloween mid-term break.

“Everybody needs to be very cautious.

Schools are doing their utmost. The biggest issue is to keep schools warm,” said Catherine.

“We’ve been advised to keep windows open but there needs to be investment to ensure classrooms are kept warm enough.

“Meetings are ongoing. People need to be confident that systems

Catherine Flanagan. are in place and that they are being implemented consistently across the country.

Meanwhile, businesses in Dundalk are facing up to the nightmare realisation of having to pull the shutters in their shops for a prolonged period for the second time this year. As was the case during the first lockdown only essential retailers and services will be the only ones permitted to open under level 5. However, the list of essential retail and services has been extended to include hardware shops, bicycle repair shops and opticians amongst others.

Dundalk Chamber PRO Paddy Malone has urged people in County

Louth to support local businesses more than ever to help traders in the region survive this latest lockdown.

“The message now more than ever is to shop local and support local businesses. We need to protect local jobs so I would urge people to use shop local vouchers and help the local economy. I know that many local businesses have utilised Louth Enterprise Office grants to get set up online so if you are shopping online please search for local outlets and help them get through this. It has been a terrible year for traders and we have to support them in the run up to Christmas,” stated Paddy.

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

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Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

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M m

An Garda Síochana react to Aaron Brady’s life sentence for capital murder

An Garda Síochána has noted the life sentence imposed on Aaron Brady today, Wednesday 14 October 2020, for the Capital Murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe during the robbery at the Lordship Credit Union, Co. Louth on the 25 January 2013.

Detective Garda Donohoe went to work on the 25 January 2013, protecting the people of Louth. He never came

home to his family after being shot and murdered during the course of a robbery at the community credit union in Lordship.

The sentencing today has been another traumatic step in the investigation of this crime for Adrian Donohoe’s wife Caroline, children, extended family, friends and his work colleagues at Dundalk Garda station and in the wider Garda organisation.

Aaron Brady was just one member of a criminal gang on that day. This criminal investigation remains live as the other members of that gang remain to be brought before the courts; the commitment and tenacity of the investigation team based at Dundalk Garda Station to bring all suspects to justice remains steadfast.

Speaking today Garda Commissioner Drew Harris

said: “My thoughts and those of the Garda Organisation are once again today with Adrian Donohoe’s family. We in An Garda Síochána will continue to support the family, and the friends and colleagues of Adrian. An Garda Siochana’s resolve to bring all the participants in this crime to justice remains firm and the investigation team at Dundalk will continue to be supported by

the resources of the wider organisation.”

An Garda Síochána appeals to any person with any information with respect to the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe to come forward to detectives with that information. The investigation team can be contacted at Dundalk Garda Station 0429388400 the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.”

C a b t m S C w v d m Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe.

DkIT Student Union call budget 2021 a missed opportunity

Vice President of DkIT S.U Críostoir Ó’Neill.

DkIT Student Union Vice President Críostoir Ó’Neill has bemoaned the fact that the government failed to scrap the Student Contribution Charge (SCC) in it’s 2021 budget announced last week. While welcoming a number of measures brought in to help students such as a once off payment of €250 for full-time students Críostoir believes it was a missed opportunity not to at least reduce the SCC. “The facts are that we pay one of the highest fees in the world for third level entry

and the second highest in the EU. These fees represent a barrier for many people to get into third level and I feel that the government should really have addressed this in last weeks budget. Even more so given the year that is in it and all the struggles and stress students have had throughout 2020. We don’t even know how often we are going to be in college this year with Covid and remote learning and we were really hoping that the government would at least bring in a reduction of up

to €500 to ease the pressure on us.

“We reached out to all local TD’s in relation to this matter ahead of the budget and only Ruairí Ó’Mhurchú responded. I know Sinn Fein had proposed reducing the fee by €500 in 2020 so it’s disappointing that those in charge don’t feel the same way.

“I do feel that it really was a missed opportunity but in fairness there is a few good things in there such as onceoff payments for third-level students of about €250 each

for all students who have paid the €3,000 student registration fee or who are in receipt of Susi grants. But the high fees were what we were really pushing to be looked at and given we have been ignored we will continue to campaign to at least reduce if not scrap what we feel is a very unfair fee,” explained Críostoir.

Speaking after the budget Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris said the payment was in recognition of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on

s s v

n d this group. c “For students, this year has been like no other. The majore ity of college will be online t for this semester and we will provide financial assistance o through a €50 million fund,” b he said.

C In addition, enhanced postm graduate supports will apply L from next year with maximum t payments rising from €2,000 k to €3,500.

The income threshold for p eligibility for these grants will m also rise, up from €31,500, t now €54,240.

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

McGuinness thanks EU members for strong vote

Commissioner-designate Mairead McGuinness has thanked Members of the European Parliament for their strong support for her appointment as Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability and the Capital Markets Union. An overwhelming majority of MEPs (583) voted in favour of her appointment during a plenary vote at the Parliament last week.

“I want to thank MEPs for their strong support”, said McGuinness, speaking from Brussels after the vote.

“Today was an important step in the nomination process, with the Council due to consider my nomination in the coming days”.

“I expect to hit ground running early next week”, McGuinness continued.

“I will be focusing on a wide range of issues and ensuring financial stability in these difficult times, with the Covid-19 pandemic. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has tasked me with advancing the Banking Union, the Capital Markets Union and Sustainable Finance.

“This portfolio reaches out to all policy areas in the European Commission, as we strive for a more sustainable economy and society, and

Mairead McGuinness. meet the challenge of climate change and biodiversity loss.

“Tackling money laundering will also be a core part of the work programme I will be dealing with, as well as regulating the new cryptocurrencies and ensuring consumer protection”, McGuinness added.

Meanwhile, Fine Gael MEPs Seán Kelly, Deirdre Clune, Frances Fitzgerald and Maria Walsh welcomed the overwhelming European Parliament vote in favour of their colleague

Mairead McGuinness’ appointment as EU Commissioner for Financial Services.

“Today’s vote is a strong endorsement of our colleague Mairead McGuinness as Ireland’s EU Commissioner and shows the depth of respect the European Parliament has for her work ethic and professionalism”, Seán Kelly MEP and leader of Fine Gael in the EU Parliament said.

“Mairead is a valued colleague who has represented her Midlands North West constituency proudly as an MEP for 16 years. The Financial Services portfolio she now takes on is highly significant, both for Ireland and the EU. It covers Banking Union, Capital Markets Union, sustainable finance, and a new digital finance strategy”, Mr Kelly said, in sending the delegations best wishes to Commissioner McGuinness.

“We also want to warmly welcome our Fine Gael colleague Colm Markey, from Co Louth, to the Irish EPP Group delegation as he will now take up his seat as a Member of the European Parliament. Colm will replace Commissioner McGuinness as an MEP representing the Midlands North West constituency and we look forward to working with him”, Mr Kelly added.

5

Recruitment of almost 1,000 special needs assistants will ensure children and young people are supported —Senator John McGahon The recruitment of almost 1,000 special needs assistants and other supports in Budget 2021 will ensure children and young people receive dedicated support, a Fine Gael Senator John McGahon said.

Senator McGahon said: “Covid-19 has presented huge challenges for our education sector and our teachers, SNAs and many more across the sector have gone to extraordinary efforts in ensuring that our children could return to school this Autumn.

“Budget 2021 will allow Government to invest a record allocation of €2 billion in funding to support children and young people with special education needs.

“This will provide for the recruitment of 990 additional SNAs provided dedicated support to students with additional needs.

Over 400 additional teachers in the area of special educational needs will also be recruited.

“This allocation brings the total number of SNAs in schools to 18,000. The measures will support additional special classes and the further rollout of the School Inclusion Model.

“The overall budget for education this year has increased by €400 million to €8.8 billion, with DEIS schools and primary and post-primary schools in County Louth benefitting from new investment.

“This increase is in addition to the significant financial supports already being provided to support schools to remain open

during the Covid-19 crisis.

“There is also a further reduction in the staffing schedule at primary level by 1 point to 25:1 through the provision of over 300 mainstream teaching posts.

“I am pleased that my colleagues in Government are also committed to continued capital investment to build new schools and special class units to meet growing demand and to improve existing schools.”

Senator McGahon continued: “Budget 2021 also provides targeted supports for our young adults with a suite of measures for Higher & Further Education.

“A €50 million fund will provide financial assistance to full time third level students in recognition of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on this group.

“There will also be significant changes to supports for post-graduate students, making it easier for them to access Susi grants and increasing the size of the payment.

“Budget 2021 also contains €120 million for Skills including extending the apprentice scheme and giving cash payments to businesses, 50,000 further education and training places and the extension of the Apprenticeship Incentivisation Scheme.

“There is a €30 million investment in research to build capacity, support Covid research and strengthen North-South research links. Funding is also provided to sustain additional places in Higher Education and provide 1,500 additional Springboard places,” Senator McGahon concluded.

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

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Music Generation Louth and LMETB run music programme for TY students

By Tamara O’Connell

OVER 70 Dundalk students participated in a three-week music programme run by LMETB’s Creative Interventions Project in partnership with Music Generation Louth.

The Colaiste Ris Transition Year (TY) students learnt a variety of music skills and also interacted with music from different cultures as a means of breaking down barriers.

The students were guided throughout the project

by Music Generation

Louth tutors Paul Campbell and Conor Walsh.

“Our Transition Year students really loved this course because it allowed them to use their creativity to make their own tracks,” said Irene Lawless, Colaiste Ris TY Coordinator.

“It was a really enjoyable way of learning outside of the classroom.”

It is now widely recognised even among the peace building community that creativity allows us to move beyond what exists today towards something new and unknowable to-

Budget 2021 important step forward for North-South agenda—McGreehan

Fianna Fáil Senator for Louth Erin McGreehan has welcomed the announcement in Budget 2021 that the Government is committed to spending €500 Million over the course of the next five years on key infrastructure projects.

This capital funding will allow for the delivery of long promised cross-border infrastructural projects and represents a fundamental shift in how the cross-border agenda is managed.

Senator McGreehan commented, “I am delighted to welcome the cross-border project announcements for

Cllr Erin McGreehan.

Budget 2021. I have lobbied very hard for these projects to commence and I believe they will be of great benefit to Louth and other border regions.

“Fianna Fáil has

been clear that transformation of the crossborder agenda was a key priority for this new Government.

“The new Shared Island Unit will be tasked with driving

these projects forward over the next five years. For many years the potential of the North-South strand of the Good Friday Agreement was largely unfulfilled so this is an important step towards realising that vision.

“Key cross border infrastructure projects that have been agreed in principle for many years and appear in successive political agreements now have a clear line of funding. In this budget, the Government has ringfenced funding to underpin that delivery,” concluded Senator McGreehan.

morrow.

Creative Interventions aims to develop more than skills, it tries to change young people’s thinking by creative output.

Music Generation Louth is a music education service that provides a range of opportunities

throughout the county for children and young people to learn music.

LMETB’s Creative Interventions Songlines project is supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body

Fatima Estate deserves investment from Louth County Council

Cllr Seán Kelly raised several issues in relation to the Fatima Estate in Dundalk at Tuesday’s meeting of Dundalk MD. He asked Louth County Council to address 1) the cleaning of the river/stream from the Mill Road flowing to the rear of the estate into Castletown River and the associated dumping that is happening 2) to erect a boundary fence between Fatima and Saltown to prevent anti-social behaviour

E r

(SEUPB).

The Project acknowledged the support of Louth County Council.

Match-funding has been D provided by the Executive t Office in Northern Iret land and the Department l of Rural and Community a Development in Ireland. w d t

and Fatima which is currently being used for quad bikes, underage drinking and general anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Kelly stated ‘Fatima is an area with a proud and rich heritage and a unique identity.

Everyone in town has some Fatima connection and are personally proud of the connection. But the estate has Cllr Sean Kelly. suffered a lack of fund3) To properly secure ing and investment the Council bank of over the past number of land between Toberona years, and it’s not only

p p c d a D a m the issues I outlinedc above. It’s simple mat-– ters like internal road surfaces, footpaths ands public lighting. Gladlya the Council are look-w ing into the 3 itemsr above and will placeo the estate on the list tot be accessed for road re-a surfacing and footpathb improvements. There s is so much work bec ing done locally by the Residents Association and sports clubs like Shamrocks and Castletown Belles. Now we need to support them.’

Maths Week in Redeemer Girls School

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

EPSO pay tribute to Dundalk’s rich language culture

DUNDALK town centre is set to pay tribute to the local area’s rich language culture with a series of unique artworks set to be publicly displayed across the town.

EPSO is a contemporary creative arts project focusing on the creation of a public outdoor archive. It will be a place to memorialise Dundalk’s local dialect and identity using the most powerful modern communication method – Public Art. Reimagining shop shutters, gable gateways and alleyways, EPSO will reveal the unique relationship the people of Dundalk have with the English language and the phrases we habitually use that are synonymous with local culture and identity.

Dundalk BIDS manager Martin McElligott said: “This is a unique project that has been in development for some

‘You’re some Boy’ by Vanessa Power at River Lane

time now.

“We are also delighted to announce the EPSO 2020 main commercial sponsor will be PayPal, who have been so enthusiastic and hands-on from the outset.

“We look forward to PayPal joining us on this creative journey and to engaging with their arts society, and the international community within PayPal to identify what Dundalk phrases stand out for them and which

they find themselves adopting.”

Mr McElligott added: “The creative environment in the town is evolving and has nurtured an eclectic population of young people that are shaping the area for the better.

“Much like the nowfamous SEEK Festival, EPSO is a project that will on one hand show people who we are, what we are all about and on the other hand encourage future generations to add and

feel part of Dundalk’s story.”

Margaret Ward, PayPal’s site lead in Dundalk said: “We are so excited to be included in this project and are keen to support not only a brilliant local initiative but also a community of artists at this time when there is uncertainty due to the pandemic.

“We feel this project will really enhance the town and know through our own arts society in the office, what a positive influence art can have on people’s overall mental health and wellbeing.

“Something that we feel is so important at this time. We look forward to seeing the rejuvenation this project brings Dundalk.”

The project will take place this October and November and its key focus will be to explore language culture through fonts, type sets

and creative expression.

It will animate our interpretation of the English language and the phrases we use in our everyday lives – highlighting this feature of our unique culture utilising the tangible medium of art together with imagination.

Sarah Daly from Creative Spark said she was delighted to be involved in the EPSO project with Dundalk BIDS. “The Seek Urban Arts Festival 2020, which we worked on with BIDS, was such a positive event and we are keen to carry on this momentum and to continue to bring great art to the streets of our town,” said Sarah.

“Support from the Creative Ireland Jobs Stimulus for this project helps us to support even more artists during this difficult time for the creative and cultural industries.”

7

McGreehan welcomes €100 million increase for disability services Fianna Fáil Senator for Louth Erin McGreehan has welcomed the €100 million increase for disability services announced in Budget 2021.

Senator McGreehan commented, “Disability services are a priority for Fianna Fáil in Government and I welcome this increased funding for disability supports.

“This funding will provide supports for some 1,700 school leavers, support the resumption of day services, promote disability integration and deliver respite services. It will also be used for de-congregation and increased personal assistant hours.

“The priority is to continue the work that is underway in the phased reopening of services for persons with disability. A new Innovation Fund will also be put in place to support the integration of people with disabilities in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“A further key area is the delivery of new service provision initiatives such as ‘Progressing Disability Services for Children and Young People’. This will be done by increasing the number of therapeutic staff under the newly established Children’s Disability

Cllr Erin McGreehan.

Network model.

“I also want to welcome the €20 increase in the earnings disregard for the Disability Allowance, which takes it from €120 to €140 per week and will take effect from next June.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has been an especially challenging time for people with disabilities.

Budget 2021 is about giving hope and I believe this increase in disability supports will contribute towards that,” concluded Senator McGreehan.

New Halloween mini release for horror director Aislinn Clarke Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

8

DUNDALK film director Aislinn Clarke’s latest mini film is set to be distributed by Hulu and other major platforms.

Originally from Fatima, Aislinn has released a couple of big horror movies over the last few years.

She is known for directing horror films ‘The Devil’s Doorway’

(2018), ‘Childer’ (2016) and ‘Short Sharp Shocks’ (2015).

Her latest project is a mini movie which is one of 30 short scary Halloween films chosen by 20th Digital Studio in America.

“It’s a family-friendly film. It’s not so scary. It’s in the vein of the Twilight Zone,” said Aislinn.

Her film ‘Eye Exam’ is now screening across digital and broadcast platforms, via Freeform, FX, and Hulu’s Huluween platform hub and YouTube channel.

“Horror lends itself to short punches. It’s always a struggle editing something down to a tight time frame but it generally helps

the tension,” she said.

Aislinn studied film at Queen’s University in Belfast, then she worked in television for a number of years before working theatre.

She lived in New York for a time but currently lives in Northern Ireland and travels to LA and London for work.

Dundalk director Aislinn Clarke

D f

D p t T w L a o

c d g t i I Beekeepers’ T Association a We, County Louth f Beekeepers Association, T due to the current i pandemic are planning a to introduce beginners t to beekeeping by use of E Zoom via the internet, A the course is limited to V

O’Murchú outlines Dealgan House issues in Dáil News 1—In which English seaside town was the hit comedy Fawlty Towers set?

2—Who do Dundalk play tomorrow evening in their opening Europa League group match?

3—In ‘The Jungle Book’, what kind of animal is Baloo?

4—What is the capital of Chile?

5—American singer Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta is best known by which stagename?

6—How many ribs does a human normally have?

7—The traditional Claret Jug is the trophy awarded to the winner of which annual sporting event?

8—Who was recently returned to office in New Zealand after winning a landslide victory in the country’s

The situation in Dealgan Nursing Home revealed in Freedom of Information documents released by the HSE last week was highlighted in Leinster House last week by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú, who used the time allocated for responding to the budget to reiterate his call for a public inquiry into the Dundalk facility.

Speaking in the Dáil, Mr Ó Murchú said: ‘I have talked about the ne-

general election?

9—Larry Page and Sergey Brin are famous for inventing which hugely popular multinational technology company?

10—According to the Acts of the Apostles, who was said to have replaced Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Jesus?

The Stinker—To the nearest hundred miles how long is the Wild Atlantic Way drive?

—this week’s answers—

cessity for capacity across the board in the health sector. There are difficulties in nursing homes.

‘I will use this opportunity to ask once again that the Minister and the Government consider the point of view of the families who during the pandemic lost 22 people in Dealgan House in Dundalk.

‘A recent Freedom of Information request revealed damning stories. A

document stated the situation was critical with 71 residents completely dehydrated and that there was a risk of renal failure after one or two days of dehydration.

‘It went on to state that on 17 April, Dealgan House could not deal with the basic care of patients.

Something dreadful happened here and we need to ensure it will not happen again. We need answers Cllr Ruairí O’Murchú for the families’.

An Post initiative will see free post to care homes An Post have announced that they will allow customers to post cards, letters, and packages weighing up to 2.5KG for free in recognition of the increased restrictions announced by government on Monday evening.

By writing FREEPOST where the stamp would normally be affixed, An Post will ensure all post will be delivered free of charge. Customers can send these items through the Post Office network and post boxes across.

A statement from An Post said the decision was made as a reaction to the latest round of government restrictions which sees the country move to level five from midnight tonight.

“At An Post, you can now send love to communities living in care homes across Ireland with free postage.

“Recognising the increased restrictions in nursing homes across the country and to bring a little joy, An Post will ensure free delivery of all card and letter mail posted to and from residents of Nursing and Care homes in the State until January 31st 2021.

“By writing FREEPOST where the stamp would normally be affixed, An Post will carry cards, letters large envelopes and packets weighing up to 2KG without a postage stamp.,” read the statement.

The initiative is part of An Post’s Community Focus scheme which is designed to help older or vulnerable people in the community.

An Post delivery staff will continue to check in regularly with ‘seniors’ along their routes.

Family members of older or vul-

nerable customers can register for the free check-in service by completing the postal address and eircode of the customer at anpost.com/CommunityFocus.

These details will be relayed directly through An Post’s digital network to the customer’s local post worker who will call to the address at the earliest opportunity. Should any customer have a specific need for groceries, prescription, the postperson will link them up with ALONE, the national charity ensuring personal support to older and vulnerable people, lined to the wider Local Authority Community Response Forum.

If older or vulnerable customers are unable to get out to buy stamps for cards or letters, their postman or postwoman will pick up their mail from their home and An Post will cover

the postage for them.

Debbie Byrne, MD of An Post Retail, said: “An Post is in every community in Ireland connecting people through the post and at our 950 post offices.

A friendly smile on the doorstep or welcoming greeting in the post office makes all the difference to everyone’s day and most particularly, to older or more vulnerable citizens.

“As the winter draws in we’re delighted to extend our range of services and ensure greater awareness of their availability through a new press and radio campaign.

“It’s so important that our communities are supported through these unprecedented times and that while we continue to remain apart, we all stay connected and don’t feel isolated,” stated Debbie.

in Brief

100 beginners and will start in late January o 2021 and interested people should s contact our Secretary w at lbkasec@gmail. a com soon to secure a a place, there is no age d limit except anyone 18 or younger must be accompanied by a parent for the practical training sessions that that will take place in April 2021.

St Joseph’s GFC Lotto

No winner of Jackpot of €3,000 on 18/10/2020.

The numbers drawn were 10, 15, 19, 27. The €50 winners were 1.

Aine Neary c/o Self. 2.

Tom Lynch c/o Kevin Kerr 3. Ged Malone c/o Online.

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We want to hear from you Phone: 042 932 0888

1—Torquay, 2—Molde, 3—A Bear, 4—Santiago, 5—Lady Gaga, 6—24, 7—British Open Golf Championship, 8—Jacinta Ardern, 9—Google, 10—Saint Matthias. The Stinker: 1600 miles.

Colaiste Chu Chulainn’s Mr Nicks talks about the benefits of sports

Stay active as much as you can is the message Simon Nicks delivered to students when quizzed about playing football and sports in the current climate.

The Northern Irish U18s Head Coach and Newry FC U20s manager, is also a PE teacher and football coach in Dundalk school Coláiste Chú Chulainn.

When answering questions from students, he was keen to impress the importance of participating in sports for wellbeing and expressed a

hope that students and young people would be able to return to some sort of participation in sports in the near future.

He noted recent studies that suggest that teenagers who play sport are much more likely to have higher levels of wellbeing and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression.

‘I loved playing, coaching is great, but you do miss playing; keeping yourself fit and well and the craic you have with team-mates. I’ve no doubt that there is a dual benefit of

playing sports – the physical and the mental. So hopefully we’ll see an opportunity to do so, safely, soon.’

Simon recounted his career progression and some of the highlights of his career to students who were keen to know if they would be representing the school anytime soon.

‘It would be great to get in in my first year and get things going and get some success in team sports. I enjoy working with young people and like creating the opportunities for them to get active. We are

training in the north [at time of interview] but it’s week by week, it’s difficult’.

‘I’d worry in Dundalk at the moment, that kids will drop out of sports because it’s not happening. I’m glad I can do something in PE that I feel helps. But do something ‘But I’d advise students to keep active as much as possible. For the time being, look at running, walking and other things that might be happening in your locality to keep yourself ticking over’ adviced the CCC P.E teacher.

Simon Nicks, P.E teacher in Colaiste Chu Chulainn.

Dundalk get ready for Europa challenge

Dundalk manager Filippo Giovagnoli will lead his troops out in Tallaght this Thursday evening as the Lilywhites kick off their Europa League Group B campaign against Norwegian champions Molde.

The Italian who joined the club in August helped Dundalk qualify for the lucrative group stages by negotiating three qualifier rounds including a 3-1 victory over Faroe Island side Ki Klaksvik. This Thursday’s game will kick off at 5.55pm and will be shown free to air on Virgin Media TV. Dundalk will be looking to get off to a good start against the Norwegians with tough games ahead against English Premier League side Arsenal and Austrian’s Rapid Vienna.

This will be Dundalk’s second time in the Europa Group stages and Dundalk fans will be hoping that this time around will be as memorable as four years ago when Dundalk picked up four points un-

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

Dundalk manager Filippo Giovagnoli and assistant coach Giuseppe Rossi.

der Stephen Kenny. Dundalk manager Filippo Giovagnoli was in an upbeat mood recently when asked if Dundalk had any chance of picking up points in the group stages.

“Anything is possible. I am the proof that anything is possible in life. Now we have

nothing to lose. We got four points the last time we were in the Europa League so let’s try and beat that record and maybe get five this time,” stated the Italian.

Dundalk have been busy in recent days playing out a scorelss draw with Bohs last

Friday evening in Oriel Park before beating Derry 2-1 on Monday night in Derry. The Molde game will be Dundalk’s third game in six days and Giovagnoli will be hoping to use his squad to ensure players are fresh for what will be a huge game for the club.

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Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

10

Councillor calls on HSE to allow partners of pregnant women into maternity hospitals

Fianna Fáil councillor Andrea McKevitt has urged the HSE to reconsider their policy of not allowing partners into maternity hospitals as part of covid19 restrictions. The Riverstown based councillor proposed a motion at Monday’s Louth County Council meeting which read as follows: ‘’That Louth County Council write to HSE management and in particular the management of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital to allow pregnant women have their partners and/or a nominated family member present at maternity appointments and at all times during labour as well as requesting all measures are put in place to make this possible.’’

According to Andrea the potential for concerning news or health issues mean it is vital for the pregnant woman to have support in the

Cllr Andrea McKevitt.

hospital.

“The last six months have been a challenging time for each and every one of us, but spare a thought for pregnant women their partners and family who have suffered a miscarriage during this period or concerning news about the health of their unborn child,” explained Andrea.

“Then picture these poor ladies in at an ultrasound appointment the room suddenly becomes busy with traffic of nurses, doctors and then whispers surround the room, to be told “I’m sorry we can’t find a heartbeat” this is any-

body’s worst nightmare.

“No partners hand to hold, no shoulder to cry on nobody to console the burning pain, instead this heartbroken lady must gather herself and walk the lonely walk to the hospital exit, the thoughts of what ifs, and crushed dreams now consume her mind and how will she break this devastating news to her family.

“I fully understand we are in the midst of a global pandemic however parents of unborn babies deserve better and that is why I am calling on Louth county council to write to the HSE and in particularly Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Drogheda to reconsider the procedures in place in light of COVID 19 to allow for the father of the unborn baby or a nominated family member attend all maternity appointments with the expectant mother,” concluded Andrea.

letters to the editor Dying with Dignity Bill: ‘Do not patronise us Mr Fitzpatrick’ Louth TD, Peter Fitzpatrick has publically now stated that he will vote against the ‘Dying with Dignity Bill’ that was debated in the Dáil last Thursday. This bill is presently in its second stage and will be put forward for a vote on Wednesday next.

He then goes on to state that ‘the title of the bill would actually permit euthanasia, plain and simple’. Here is my first question- does this young man truly believe that the Irish nation is incapable of figuring that out for itself or perish the thought, either in dire need or highly dependent on his guidance in this matter?

Next, although I am of a certain vintage, I strongly object to being described by him as ‘older and more vulnerable’. Older, Mr Fitzpatrick, does not necessarily equate to more vulnerable.

He continues to declare that we, ‘the elderly’ turn our radios on these days and are bombarded with media stories pushing the case for this bill! Dear, dear Mr Fitzpatrick, what is wrong with your thinking process? I, like

all other seniors, know both the power and the useage of the on-off button on the radio. Do not patronise us please. To add insult to injury he declares that he is making this statement on the United Nations International Day of Older Persons and he is ‘sad’ about that. I speak here for myself alone. I am far from sad and am downright elated to state emphatically that as this labelled ‘older person’ I will be campaigning vigorously for the passage of this bill.

In fact, perhaps I should consider chaining myself to the Dáil gates, in the sitting position of course, as my legs would not be reliable in the upright stance for hours on end. He has also alluded that this bill is centred around the aged. Wake up Mr Fitzpatrick!

It is to enable adult citizens to die with medical assistance from a terminal illness. In the future, please absorb the content of any bill before expressing your opinion. May I finally point out that pet owners have the right, and in my opinion, the duty, to call on a vet to end the lives of their terminally ill beloved friends.

Many of you readers have had to make that wrenching and heart breaking decision. Why do you do it? It is simply because you love your pet more than you love yourself. You do it with the full knowledge that you will cause yourself many years of loss and grief in order to end the suffering of your beloved friend.

Ireland is now both marvelous and modernised. It was the first country to ban smoking from restaurants. It was the forerunner in voting for the same sex partnerships.

The Irish youth travelled as a united diaspora to pass these important new initiatives. I now declare and stake my reputation as a senior retired educationalist of 44 years standing, that I am absolutely certain that sometime in the future, not necessarily as a direct result of this bill, Ireland as a nation will pass in law the legislature to allow our terminally ill citizens to die with dignity.

Francesca DiMattina (aka Fran Murphy) 30 Pearse Park, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

News

in Brief

Disability Louth Group

Disability Louth is a Voluntary Group to Promote, Develop and Engage the interests of Persons with disABILItY in Co. Louth. If you are interested in joining please phone 085 8660507.

Further information at www.disabilitylouth.ie

Beekeepers’ Association

We, County Louth Beekeepers Association, due to the current pandemic are planning to introduce beginners to beekeeping by use of Zoom via the internet, the course is limited to 100 beginners and will start in late January 2021 and interested people should contact our Secretary at lbkasec@gmail.com soon to secure a place, there is no age limit except anyone 18 or younger must be accompanied by a parent for the practical training sessions that that will take place in April 2021.

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you Phone: 042 932 0888

Maths Week in Redeemer Girls School

11

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

Family Notices in memoriam

McEneaney 16th and 3rd anniversaries In loving memory of our parents, Peadar, 16th anniversary and Terry (Teresa), 3rd anniversary, whose anniversaries occur around this time.

Never more than a thought away, Loved and remembered every day.

—Loved and missed always by Patricia, Noeleen, Peter, John, Paul and their extended families.

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). K.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). J.C.

novena

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). E.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). E.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). 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). 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). R.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). R.M.

Family Notices Contact Noeleen Phone 042 9320888

Repairs at Templetown Road and Shelling Hill welcomed by Cllr Watters Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has welcomed repair works carried out by Louth County Council on the Shelling Hill and Templetown Road in the Cooley Peninsula.

According to Cllr Watters, “the road leading to Shelling Hill and Templetown beach is one of the busiest roads in Cooley and has high volumes of traffic everyday. Over time the road has started to erode in a number of places and these remedial works were badly needed.”

Cllr Watters had requested the remedial works

earlier this year following discussions with a number of local residents but unfortunately, although the works had been started, they were temporarily abandoned due to the Covid 19 situation.

“This corner” according to the Peninsula Councillor “was one that was causing major difficulties.”

He went on to praise the operations team and the Council engineers on completion of the task thanking them for “their excellent work. It is much appreciated by myself and the local community.”

Cllr Antóin Watters welcomes repairs at Templetown Road and Shelling Hill.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

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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.

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.

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish removals/ Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse.

Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-8407707.

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

All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance.

For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dundalk Paint Store—Longwalk Tel 042 938 6948 Eircode A91T2HE Stockists of All Leading Brands, Full selection of Radiators Covers. Home Delivery Service.

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.

Painting & Decorating—interior and exterior, over 10 years experience, no job too big or too small, for free quotations Tel Ian 087 415 8238. References available.

BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

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.

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

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.

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.

Wine Leather 3 Piece Suite for sale, only 1 year old, excellent condition Tel 042 9352962.

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

PERFECT FIT ALTERATIONS—For all your sewing needs. Curtains, Hems, Zips & Repairs. 10% off for Slimming World members. Castletown Road. Tel 042 932 7837.

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

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

A-ALTERATIONS—For all your clothing alteration needs. ‘Hems on school trousers €4.95.’Cuffs taken up or let down on.

Ladies & Gents Jackets €15, Zips in Coats €20, Curtains altered, Jeans patched. DryCleaning service. Tel 042-933 3380, Long Walk Shopping Centre, Dundalk.

SC Tiling—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane : 086 107 5080.

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.

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

articles wanted

WANTED—Old Dundalk Memorabilia wanted including Tempest Annuals, 1916 related items & pub memorabilia. Please contact Robert on 087 7683547.

planning notice

Carlingford Adventure Aerial Park intends to build a wooden panel maze within Skypark, Moneymore, Co Louth and are inviting submissions of quotes to carry out construction starting in December 2020. The maze has been fully designed and covers an area of 776 square meters, with a maximum width of 36mtrs and maximum length of 28.5mtrs. The maze will be built on a modular grid of 1,500mm between the centres of the posts and will comprise of concrete posts and wooden panels. There will also be 16 movable gates therein along with other wooden features. Construction will include associated groundworks, provision of all materials meeting required specifications and necessary labour. Carlingford Adventure Aerial Park invites expressions of interest until the 26th October. Interested parties will then be provided with detailed specifications to finalise their quote submission. Please contact adrian@carlingfordadventure. com or call 042-9373100.

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

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Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

14

Encore Productions return to An Táin Arts Centre

After nearly seven months apart the members of Encore Productions returned to the stage at An Táin Arts Centre after being forced to disband when lockdown arrived in March. Encore is a theatre company based in RehabCare Resource Centre in Dundalk – a centre which supports adults with intellectual disabilities in living the life of their choice as independently as possible.

Under the leadership of Sandy Sneddon, Encore has to date produced 14 shows and a feature film including Mother Courage in 2019 for what was their first production under the banner of An Táin Arts Centre company

in residence.

The group are led by Sandy Sneddon who spoke of the member’s delight upon returning to the stage.

“They’ve really missed the social aspect of coming together and working hard and having fun together over the past seven months. They’ve been keeping socially distant over the months of lock down and we are all delighted to be back working together again on our residency. Like everyone else we have been finding ways to stay creative and stay positive, not least by working on the script of ‘Our Town’ which was originally meant to be our

big production in An Táin this year but due to Covid restrictions we have had to change our plans and we are now planning on recording it as a radio drama before the year is out,” explained Sandy.

“We are also looking ahead to next year already and we have plans to tackle some Greek theatre in 2021.

It seems apt as the town hall’s design is based on the Parthenon in Greece and that is where theatre was born a couple of thousand of years ago.

“We plan to turn the life of the Ancient Storyteller Aesop into a production in the manner of the fathers of

theatre, the Ancient Greeks.

The cast and crew are all excited to be learning about Tragedy and Comedy, the fates and the furies, chorus and mask as well as the life and times of Aesop and the pleasures and perils of life in those Ancient Times.

More importantly they are all just so happy to be back on stage shaking off the rust and interacting with each other again. They’ve been reminiscing plenty this week remembering all the great nights they have had in the town hall. Some of them have been taking part in productions for over twenty years so theatre is a big part of their lives,” stated Sandy.

School of Distinction award for St Louis

Dara Mee, Michelle Dolan, Mary Gilmore and Cora Rice celebrate their schools award St Louis secondary school have secured the Trinity College Dublin 21st Century School of Distinction Award for the third time. This prestigious title recognises and rewards innovative approaches to Teaching and Learning.

St. Louis Dundalk is one of just five schools nationally selected for the accolade.

Excellence in the core areas of technologically rich teaching methodologies, strong mentoring programmes, robust leadership development and impressive progression to Third Level mean that St. Louis will proudly display the Trinity 21st Century School of Distinction banner for a third

consecutive year.

Principal Michelle Dolan says, “We are excited to have been recognised in this way and to avail of the wealth of educational expertise and inspirational speakers. We are looking forward to continue the relationship with Trinity and avail of tutor visits from their faculty. Our teaching staff continuously and tirelessly strives to create, engage and maximize our students’ individual potential.

This year the award meant 10 laptops and 1.600 euro while our sixth year group are looking forward to the first of the live sessions with Trinity.

Motivational speaker Jack

Kavanagh will host the first of these talks and tutorials on Tuesday next week.

St Louis has always provided a climate for growth of the individual in every sense, and the ethos is embedded in staff’s richly supportive relationships with their students.

Figures demonstrate that 100 percent of the class of 2017,18 and 19 progressed to Third Level and are blazing trails in their chosen specialisms.

We prize student wellbeing and nurture the highest aspirations for each and every individual. Louis girls are self directed, dynamic and well researched on possible career pathways.

Members of Encore Productions return to An Táin Arts Centre

Local writer has story included in lockdown book

Local retired teacher and writer, Susan McGovern, has had one of her stories included in a new book, A Page From My Life, which will be released on 29 October. “It all started in the middle of the lockdown,” said Susan, “when Ray D’Arcy ran a competition on his afternoon show for listeners to write up to 500 words about an incident in their life. He called it A Page From My Life.”

Incredibly, there were over 2,500 entries, so then Ray decided that it was not enough to award the three prizes that had been initially planned. In addition to the prizes, he came up with a great idea, to bring in the publishers, Harper Collins, to short list the entries to 150 and produce a book of them, called the same name as the competition, A Page From My Life.

“The first I knew that my story had been included was when I received an email from Harper Collins, telling me so,” said Susan. “I Was obviously delighted and considered it a real honour.”

Susan’s story is called The Dreaded Day and tells of the first time her mother, who had

Dundalk businessman named as one of top 25 software CEO’s in Europe

DUNDALK businessman Justin Lawless has been announced as one of the Top 25 software CEOs of Europe for 2020, according to the Software Report.

The Intact CEO and his fellow awardees have been credited for using their diverse backgrounds

and strategic leadership to drive the growth and expansion of their companies, despite the financial stress that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on the overall economic environment.

They have been credited for leading their business-

es through organisational change, establishing resilience, and not only adapting but renewing their business strategy swiftly and aptly in this new normal; all attributes we can wholeheartedly attribute to our own CEO, Justin Lawless.

Susan McGovern.

Alzheimer’s, did not know her.

Susan is no stranger to writing about this terrible condition, since her father and a number of other family members suffered from it also. In 2017 Susan self-published a collection of fifteen short stories, called Thanks for the Memories, about people with Alzheimer’s and their families. The proceeds of the book go to Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland North Dublin Social Clubs, whose serv-

Intact Software is based at Blackthorn Business Park on the Coes Road.

A statement published on the Intact website said: “Whilst the team at Intact were not shocked to see Justin appear in this year’s line-up, we were extremely proud.”

Justin Lawless, CEO, Intact Software.

ices were invaluable to Susan’s parents in the last few years of their lives. Copies are available from Susan’s website, www.susanmcgovern.ie.

The proceeds of A Page From My Life are also being donated to an excellent charity, the LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.

This charity was set up by the parents of Laura and Lynn who died at the ages of 4 and 15 respectively. It provides palliative care to children with lifelimiting diseases and support to their families.

“This is a really great charity,” said Susan, “and anyone buying the book will be doing a good deed, but it is a very enjoyable book to read also. I got my complimentary copy on Friday and I have not been able to put it down. My story is sad, as are some others, but they vary from hilarious to unbelievable and everything in between.”

A Day From My Life will be on sale from 29 October in Roe River Books and Eason’s in Dundalk and most good book shops nationwide. It will also be available online from Eason’s, Kenny’s, Dubray and many others.

Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020

15

Four generations of the SEAT Leon

Each of the four generations of the SEAT Leon has been ahead of its time, while maintaining the same DNA throughout its more than 20-year history. Designed, developed and created in Barcelona, they all share the same essence that has made the Leon a pillar of the brand, and with more than 2 million units sold

so far, a legend that continues to grow. “This is the model that put SEAT on the world map of motoring, thanks to its design, technology and quality”, says Isidre López, who is responsible for SEAT’s Historic Car collection.

The first Leon was a trendsetter with a design with a lot of personality.

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It was a great update on technology and quality”,. It was a pioneer in many areas: the brand’s first car that was made in two factories at the same time (Brussels and Martorell), which featured four-wheel drive and a six-speed gearbox, and with 180 hp, it was also the first to exceed 150 hp. It was a supe-

rior model to what we had until then, because of its totally galvanised body (to protect it from corrosion and improve its appearance) and also because of extras such as the automatic opening of the fuel port, which was a very sophisticated feature at that time the second generation revolutionised a traditionally

There are now four generations of the Seat Leon. classic segment, with an exterior featuring its iconic side blisters and the recessed rear door handles that made it look like a 3-door model. In motorsport, the second generation won four manufacturer and driver world titles in 2008 and 2009 at the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). That was a major feat, especially for a compact, as the lack of a proper boot gives you an

YEAR MAKE

enormous aerodynamic disadvantage.

Any driver can immediately recognise a third generation Leon in their rear-view mirror, partly thanks to the LED daytime lights. In fact, it was the first compact to incorporate full LED technology. The range of trim levels of the third generation was superior to previous ones in order to satisfy a more demanding public. Everyone was

talking about the Leon; it began winning a lot of comparison tests. Moreover, it was the first Leon to offer 5-door, 3-door SC and family size ST variants.

If there is one thing that characterises the new Leon, it’s that it represents an unprecedented technological leap: not only is it the brand’s first fully connected vehicle, but it’s also innovative in terms of safety and lighting,

with a design that gives it an improved appearance and more personality, while maintaining its sporty essence. Furthermore, it is the brand’s first vehicle with five different drive systems (petrol, diesel, compressed natural gas, micro-hybrid and plug-in hybrid), offering the widest range of possibilities to meet the expectations and needs of any driver. It’s going to be a major pacesetter.

MODEL SPEC/FUEL COLOUR MILES

2017 AUDI A4 2017 BMW X1 2018 BMW 1 SERIES 2019 DACIA SANDERO 2019 DACIA STEPWAY 2018 CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS 2018 CITROEN C4 CACTUS 2017 HYUNDAI I10 2017 HYUNDAI I30 2017 HYUNDAI I30 2017 HYUNDAI I30 2018 HYUNDAI I40 2019 HYUNDAI I10 2019 HYUNDAI I10 2019 HYUNDAI KONA 2019 HYUNDAI TUSCON 2018 MAZDA 6 2018 MAZDA 2 2017 MERCEDES BENZ C220 2017 NISSAN QASHQAI 2018 NISSAN QASHQAI 2018 NISSAN QASHQAI 2019 NISSAN MICRA 2017 OPEL ASTRA 2017 OPEL ASTRA 2018 RENAULT CAPTUR 2018 RENAULT MEGANE 2019 RENAULT CLIO 2019 RENAULT CAPTUR 2019 RENAULT KADJAR 2019 SEAT IBIZA 2019 SEAT ARONA 2019 SEAT ATECA 2018 SKODA FABIA COMBI 2018 SKODA OCTAVIA 2018 SKODA SUPERB 2019 SKODA FABIA 2018 VW GOLF 2018 VOLVO S60

2.0 TDI ULTRA SE SILVER 2.0 sDrive AUTO WHITE 116D SE SILVER 1.0 PETROL ALTERNATIVE WHITE 1.0 PETROL ALTERNATIVE WHITE 1.6 HDI FEEL BLUE WHITE 1.6 HDI FEEL ED AUTO GREY 1.0 PETROL PREMIUM BLACK 1.6 CRDI DELUXE BEIGE 1.6 CRDI DELUXE WHITE 1.6 CRDI CLASSIC WHITE 1.7 CRDI EXECUTIVE BLUE 1.0 PETROL CLASSIC RED 1.0 PETROL DELUXE BLUE 1.0 PETROL EXECUTIVE GREY 1.6 CRDI EXECUTIVE WHITE 2.2 EXECUTIVE SE GREY 1.5 PETROL EXEC GREY 2.2 DIESEL SE EXECUTIVE EDITION BLACK 1.6 DCI SV PREMUIM 4WD BLUE 1.2 PETROL SV BLUE 1.5 DCI SV GREY 1.0 PETROL XE BLUE 1.6 DIESEL SC GREY 1.6 DIESEL SC GREY 1.5 DCI DYNAMIQUE NAV AUTO WHITE 1.5 DCI GRAND COUPE DYNA NAV GREY 1.0 PETROL DYNAM NAV RED 1.0 PETROL ICONIC RED 1.3 PETROL TCE PLAY GREEN 1.0 MPI PETROL SE BLACK 1.6 TDI SE GREY 1.6 TDI SE GREY 1.0 MPI AMBITION BLUE 1.6 TDI AMBITION GREY 1.6 TDI AMBITION GREY 1.0 PETROL ACTIVE GREY 1.6TDCI HL WHITE 2.0 D2 SE AUTO SILVER

61250 76250 43750 13125 11875 43750 51779 34375 67500 30625 30000 43750 15000 15625 25000 16250 68750 25000 29375 66250 34375 50000 13750 51875 45000 53125 46875 17500 27500 14375 11250 19375 15000 33750 37500 28125 16250 62500 48750

PRICE

€20990 €23990 €20990 €10990 €14250 €15990 €13990 €9990 €13990 €14750 €14250 €20990 €11990 €12990 €20990 €28450 €16990 €13990 €25990 €18990 €18990 €19990 €13750 €13500 €13500 €17990 €15450 €13990 €16990 €23990 €14990 €19990 €24440 €11990 €17990 €18990 €13990 €19990 €22990

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Dundalk Leader 21st October 2020