22-07-2020

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Community spirit shown in Bay Estate Page 8

Eimear to exhibit at National Gallery Page 8

Concern over crèche closure

Funding boost for Dundalk outcomers Page 6

Wednesday, 22nd July, 2020. Vol. 13, Issue 30 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

OVER 160 people attended a protest on Saturday last over the closure of a creche in mid Louth.

It was announced two weeks ago that Scallywags Creche in Togher would close its doors, despite having €450,000 in cash reserves.

Speaking to The Dundalk Leader local Fine Gael Councillor and parent Colm Markey said: “There is shock and disappointment amongst parents.”

The decision is leading to the loss of 15 jobs and childcare facilities for 40 parents in the community.

However, the Togher Community Project Group, which operates the creche, is said to have in the region of €450,000 in cash reserves.

Parents of the children attending Scallywags are demanding a U-turn on the decision to close.

Continued on Page 2

Protestors voice their displeasure over the closure of Scallywags creche in Togher

OPEN 9.30am -8pm MONDAY FRIDAY 9am - 5pm SATURDAY

Phone: 042 93 85355

Rescue mission in Blackrock Two adults and three children were rescued by the Irish Coast Guard on Sunday evening after getting caught by the rising tide.

The coast guard was called just after 8pm when the five were quickly trapped by the incoming tide while out walking on the beach.

The rescue helicopter arrived on the scene quickly before rescuing the two adults and three children at Blackrock Bay. Thankfully the five were all escorted back to dry land by the Coast Guard helicopter who carried them across the river to the beach at the village side of the river.

The Coast Guard posted a warning about the dangers of incoming tides following the incident.

‘An Incoming tide can quickly trap people while out walking on the beach or the coast, check the tides or ask local advice before setting out on a coastal walk.’

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Anger and confusion over crèche closure From Page 1

Myles Health and Safety • Preparation of Company Safety Statements • Risk Assessments • Method Statements • Safe Operating Procedures • Carrying out of Site Audits and Reports • All Industries Catered For

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Telephone: 089-6119878 Togher, Co. Louth Email: myleshealthandsafety@gmail.com

“We were given two reasons for the closure.

The first was Covid-19 and the second was a staffing shortage,” said Colm.

“Parents received a phone call about the issue. There was no proper survey. I think a proper survey of parents should have been completed.

“It’s a registered charity and a not-forprofit organisation. It’s not a private enterprise so I think the decision to close the creche was unacceptable.”

He added: “I understand why someone might want to retire.

There’s nothing to stop someone from retiring.

Just let others have the opportunity to have re-

creche to stay open. We explored a range of options but we were told these had been exhausted,” said Claire.

“We were told the decision to close had been made and was irreversible.”

Meanwhile 29% of

workers in the childcare sector say they are earning less now than they did before the pandemic.

A new SIPTU survey shows just under a third of childcare workers plan on leaving the sector within the next year.

The union says most early years professionals were earning below the Living Wage of 12.40 per hour before the pandemic hit.

They are calling for the Children’s Minister, Roderic O’Gorman, to reintroduce the Temporary Wage Subsidy Childcare Scheme to bring their earnings up.

This comes after the closure of 56 childcare providers across the country in recent weeks, leaving an estimated 2,600 children without

She commented, “I welcome the guidance from government that face coverings should be worn in retail settings. This public health advice will only serve

to slowdown the transmission of this deadly virus.

“Regulations are being drafted by government in order to enforce the wearing of face coverings. There has been a high take up of face coverings on public transport and I hope people will continue this in retail settings. I appreciate for medical reasons not everyone can wear a face covering and this should be acknowledged in the regulations.

“The Irish public and our scarifies during lockdown are the primary reason we reopened and got back to some sort of normalcy in our daily lives. In order to continue this reopening of society and businesses we need to adopt regular face coverings in retail stores or other locations in which physical distancing is not possible,” concluded Senator McGreehan.

Two young protestors at Saturday’s rally.

sponsibility for it.”

Louth Childcare Committee Manager Claire Woods said that the reasons given to her for Scallywags closure was Covid-19 and difficulties with staffing.

“We offered support to try and help the

McGreehan urges shoppers to use face coverings as public health guidance updates Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has urged people in retail settings to use face coverings in order to reduce the transmission of the coronavirus.

The public health guidance advises that face coverings should be worn by all customers in shops and shopping centres across the country.

Retail staff will also be required to wear a face

Erin McGreehan

covering unless there is a partition between them and members of the public or where there is a distance of 2 metres between them and members of the public.

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a daycare or preschool place.

The Federation of Childhood Providers says it expects more

closures to follow, with reduced capacity for social distancing making many businesses unprofitable.

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Decision to delay pub openings ‘devastating’ ‘Worrying delays’ for Covid 19

By Tamara O’Connell

The Government’s decision to delay the next reopening of remaining pubs amid concerns over rising coronavirus infections is “understandable but devastating”, according to a Louth publican.

Plans to allow pubs that do not serve food and nightclubs to recommence business from July 20 have been postponed until August 10.

Louth Vintner’s Federation of Ireland Chairwoman Collette

Nugent believes the decision to postpone the reopening of pubs that do not serve food is “unacceptable”.

The move came after the State’s health officials raised concerns about an increase in Covid-19 infections as restrictions have been relaxed.

“The argument doesn’t hold up. Our job as publicans is to control the level of alcohol consumed and it’s imperative we control it,” she said.

“Hundreds of thousands of euro worth of stock was bought

in preparation for a July 20 reopening date.

“It’s cost us money and cost our suppliers money. How long will we have to stay closed?

Landlords are still looking for money and insurance premiums still have to be paid.”

The Government has also decided to delay the resumption of larger gatherings of people.

Proposals to permit larger gatherings of 100 people indoors, up from 50, and 500 people outdoors, up from 200, will also not VFI Louth President proceed as earlier planned.

Collette Nugent.

McCann’s link with Fyffes ends as David steps down

By Tamara O’Connell

Fyffes current CEO and chairman David McCann is set to retire at the end of this month, bringing the McCann family’s involvement in the fruit importing giant to an end.

Famous for its bananas, Fyffes was acquired in 1986 by Fruit Importers of Ireland – or FII – which was run

by Neil McCann. Neil is the father of David and Carl, who is chairman of Total Produce, the international listed fruit and vegetable distribution group.

The family’s links

David McCann joined Fyffes in 1986.

He was appointed managing director three years later, CEO in 1995 and chairman in 2006. He will be replaced as CEO by Chiquita’s Helge Sparsoe, while Sumitomo’s Tom Wada will take over as Fyffes chairman.

Sumitomo CEO Masayuki Hyodo said Mr McCann had been “an outstanding leader” of the business. Fyffes is David McCann set to retire from McCann’s later this month the oldest fruit brand Fyffes was acquired in the world, a leadwith Fyffes date back Charles became the to the early 1900s first greengrocer to by Japan’s Sumitomo ing supplier of fresh when Neil McCann’s import Fyffes bananas Corporation for more produce, and employs over 10,000 people. than €750m in 2017.

Dundalk-based father into Ireland.

Fitzpatrick expresses SNA’s concerns

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick has passed on SNA’s concerns to An Taoiseach Micheál Martin in the Dail regarding exclusion from last week’s Oireachtas Special Committee meeting.

The independent TD stated that he had been contacted by many SNA’s who expressed hurt and disappointment over the exclusion.

“Last week, the Oireachtas Special Committee on Covid-19 Response met representatives from the Irish Primary Principals’ Network and the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals with regard to education provision in September,” explained Deputy Fitzpatrick.

“I have been contacted by a large number of special needs assistants, SNAs, who have expressed their deep disappointment and despair that they were excluded from this session. As the Taoiseach knows, SNAs

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick.

have the closest contact with pupils in schools.

They effectively look after the most vulnerable students in schools and to exclude them from this session was wrong and deeply hurtful to the thousands of SNAs around the country. They have asked that their opinions be taken into account with regard to the reopening of schools in September.

Will the Taoiseach confirm to the House that he will work with the Minister for Education and Skills and ensure the views and opinions of SNAs will be taken into account when decisions are taken on reopening

schools in September?

Responding to Deputy Fitzpatrick An Taoiseach Micheál Martin promised he would speak to the Minister for Education and Skills regarding the issue.

“I will of course speak to the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Foley, regarding the inclusion of representative voices for SNAs. I think we have more than 70,000 SNAs in our system now. Those posts sprung from an initiative I took back in 1998, when I served as Minister for Education and Science, with regard to special needs education. The objective of the Government and of the Minister is to get as full an opening and return to school as possible near the end of August.

If our number one priority is to reopen schools, and I believe everyone shares that as a priority, we must be extremely vigilant concerning social dis

test results in Dealgan House A waiting time of up to 48 hours for results of Covid-19 tests in Dealgan Nursing Home last week was raised in Leinster House by Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Families whose loved ones are being cared for at Dealgan were informed by management at the Dundalk home last week that, as a precaution, two residents were being tested for Covid-19 and, as a result, visiting was suspended.

The tests returned negative, but it took around 48 hours for the results to come through.

The issue was raised by Mr Ó Murchú in the Dáil on Thursday and he also raised it during a private discussion with new health minister, Stephen Donnelly.

Mr Ó Murchú said: ‘I took the opportunity during the debate to raise the issue of Dealgan House having to wait around 48 hours for test results last week.

‘This was very worrying, given the huge tragedy that had unfolded in this nursing home just a couple of months ago.

‘A few weeks previously, nursing homes were waiting four or five hours for Covid-19 test results, but this has evidently increased. Thankfully, the tests were negative in this instance, but this is not the sort of set up that we need.

‘Dealgan did the right thing and swiftly enacted the strong government protocols. But the results of tests carried out in nursing homes should not be subject to such inordinate delays and there needs to

be a far quicker turnaround’.

Mr Ó Murchú also took the opportunity to follow up on a letter he had sent to new health minister, Stephen Donnelly, about the Dundalk nursing home, where 22 people died from Covid-19.

Dealgan House featured in a Primetime programme, aired last Thursday, about Covid-19 in nursing homes.

Mr Ó Murchú said: ‘I told Minister Donnelly nursing homes would feature in the Primetime programme, which was aired later that evening.

I brought the test result delays to his attention, along with a request from some of the families whose loved ones had died during the Covid-19 outbreak to meet with him.

‘I reiterated the calls from some of the families for a full, public inquiry into what happened here. There are lots of questions that can only be answered in an inquiry. The management of Dealgan House have stated on the record that they too have questions.

‘I also told him that his predecessor, Minister Simon Harris, had given a commitment that he would look at the HIQA report before deciding the next steps and I asked Minister Donnelly to do the same.

‘I mentioned to him that the families had been in contact with HIQA and were apprehensive about the extent and nature of the report, when it is published. The only way everything can be addressed – to ensure that it never happens anywhere again and so that families can have some closure – is to have an inquiry’.

recent deaths Pat MURRAY Blackgate, and the late Paul and baby Elizabeth, nieces, nephews West St, Drogheda) 17th Ravensdale, Dundalk, Louth Mary, adored granny of & extended family & friends. July 2020 (Peacefully) at / Ballyshannon, Donegal. Gary, Orla, Michelle, Conor, Patsy Lynch Stickillen, Ar- her home. Predeceased by Peacefully, in the tender and Shane, Gavin, Clare, Cathy, dee, Co. Louth. 15th July her husband Gerry and her dedicated care of the staff Emer, Emily, Gerard, Thomas, 2020. Peacefully following a sons Gerry and Edward and of Our Lady of Lourdes Hos- Fiona, Anne, Rachel, Ciaran, short illness and surrounded daughter Catherine. Much pital, Drogheda. He will be Sean, Daniel, Anna, Cormac, by his family. Patsy is prede- loved by sons Peter, Leo, Dersadly missed by his sorrow- and Éadaoin, great-granny ceased by his brother Micky mot, and Declan, daughters ing sister Carmel, nephews, of Noel, Ryan, Iona, Dáire, and sister May, he will be Aisling and Nora, grandchilnieces, relatives and friends. Ré, Naoise, Caden, Sean, sadly missed by his loving dren Simon, Shane, Sophie, Christopher Wallace Lucy, Luke, April and sister wife Marie, sons Richard, BryDavid, Sarah, Rachel, Breffni, Bradgate, Mc Entee Avenue, of Tom, Kathleen Robinson, an and Niall, grandchildren Dundalk. 14th July 2020. Mary Forde, Monica Rob- Séana, Úna, Oisin, Shauna, Tara, Caomín, Diarmuid, RuPeacefully in the tender lov- inson, and the late George, Aaron, Keith, Lorcan, Cor- airi, Sean, Daragh, Jack and ing care of Blackrock Abbey, Betty Loddick and Ann mac and Bronagh, daugh- Robert, son-in-law John, Nursing Home. Christopher, Garvey. She will be sadly ters-in-law Wendy, Angela daughters-in-law Michelle, beloved husband of Mary missed by her sons, daugh- and Mairead, brothers Peter, Aisling, Pauline and Orla, née Dugdale dear father ters, grandchildren, great- Tom and John, brother-in- her brother Fergus, sistersof Claire and John, brother grandchildren, sons-in-law, law, sisters-in-law, nephews, in-law Patricia, Una and of Ann and Mary and the daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours Mary, nieces and nephews, late John-Joe. Christopher nieces, brother, sisters, rela- and friends. relatives and friends.

Teresa SCANLON Glen- Tom Murphy St Gerard’s will be sadly missed by his tives and friends. wife, son, daughter, sisters, Stephen RAFFERTY London wood, Dublin Road, Dun- Square, Dundalk. Sunday brother in law Michael- and formerly Mullahattina, dalk, Louth / Gurteen, Sligo. 19th July 2020. Peacefully in Joe,nephews, nieces, rela- Carlingford, Louth. Peaceful- Peacefully, in the tender and the love and tender care of ly at The Whittington Hospi- dedicated care of the staff Carlingford Nursing Home. tives and friends.

Olive O’Connor (née Led- tal, London. Lovingly cared of Blackrock Abbey Nursing Predeceased by his parents with), Laurel Brook Gardens, for by the dedicated staff Home. Deeply and sincerely James and Kathleen, brothDundalk and formerly of of Nazareth House Nursing regretted by her nephews, er Jim, grandaughter MelisMountpleasant, Co.Louth. Home, Finchley, London for nieces, extended family, sa, grandson Damien, He Peacefully, in the wonderful the past 10 years. Prede- relatives and friends. care of Castleross Nursing ceased by his mother Annie, MONAHAN Frances (née will be sadly missed by his Home, 15th July 2020. Ol- father Stephen, brothers NicIomhair) (Port Oriel, loving family, sons Fintan, ive, beloved wife of the late Pat, Sean & Owen & his sis- Clogherhead, Co Louth and Damien and Thomas, brothDan, dear mother of Sean, ter Mary. Stevie will be sadly formerly of Beechmount er John Murphy, extended Mairead, Dessie, Brendan, missed by his brother Hugh, House, Mornington, Co. family relatives, neighbours Elizabeth, Kevin, Caroline sister Anna, sister-in-law Meath and Monahans Ltd, and friends.

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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INTO members in Louth raise €55,000 for sick children

A massive €55,000 has been raised by the INTO, teachers’ union, for CMRF Crumlin, which is part of the Children’s Health Foundation family.

This year due to COVID19 restrictions and social distancing guidelines, tickets were available online from €10 with the chance to win incredible prizes up to a value of €10,000. All proceeds from the 2020 draw will provide continued support for the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) research project in the National Children’s Research Centre (NCRC).

“The INTO is delighted and very proud to once again support CMRF through their annual members’ raffle,” says Mary Magner, President of the INTO. “Thank you to our members in County Louth for their generosity in raising €55,000 in the 2020 raffle. This year despite restrictions with COVID19, our members got behind the online raffle. It will benefit thousands of children all over Ireland in their most vulnerable sick moments, and their parents through periods of strain and worry.”

The Children’s Medical and Research

Foundation (CMRF) Crumlin, the fundraising body for CHI at Crumlin and the National Children’s Research Centre, has praised the INTO for their continued fundraising. “Every year, we meet fundraising groups like the INTO and we’re just overwhelmed by their generosity and their ability to create such a fantastic fundraiser,” says Chief Executive of Children’s Health Foundation, Denise Fitzgerald. “On behalf of all the children that these funds will ultimately benefit through the research funded we thank the INTO for their amazing ongoing support.”

The hospital treats upwards of 150,000 children each year from all over Ireland.

“Every family in our school communities knows of a child who has received treatment in Crumlin hospital,” says Mary Magner. “We support the hospital in providing the best possible care for children and are mindful of the constant need to invest in research projects. Therefore, the proceeds from the 2020 INTO members’ draw will be used to fund the Inflammatory Bowel

Disease (IBD) research project.”

IBD is a term used for two chronic relapsing conditions, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CB). Unfortunately, childhood IBD is on the rise with a tripling of cases in the past ten years in Ireland. Current treatment strategies are ineffective in a large number of children, so further research is vital.

The INTO launched their annual members’ online raffle in April and with the support of INTO staff representatives in schools who encouraged members to participate in the raffle, they were delighted with the very generous response.

INTO President Mary Magner presented the cheque to Sinead Nolan, Schools and Youth Development Executive with CMRF Crumlin and says the work here in CMRF Crumlin is vital and urgent. “Children are suffering right now from the most serious and harrowing illnesses and conditions,” Mary says, “we need to provide the best research and treatment to save their lives, ease their burden and speed up healing.”

INTO President Mary Magner and INTO Deputy Secretary General Noel Ward present €55,000 to CMRF Crumlin. The funds are the proceeds of the INTO Annual Draw for members that went ahead online due to COVID19 restrictions.

Ministers visits Outcomers for funding announcement promote inclusion, protect rights and to improve quality of life and wellbeing for LGBTI+ people in Ireland.

“We will be putting in an application. We would like to do more to support transgender people in Ireland and older LBGTI+ people who have gone into care homes,” said Bernadine.

Announcing the fund, Minister McEntee said: “My Department aims to build a safer, fairer, more inclusive Ireland.

“The National LGBTI+ inclusion strategy is a major step forward for the LGBTI+ community –

young and old, urban and rural. My hope is the new funding being announced today will improve access to services for LGBTI+ people, irrespective of their age or where they live.”

Minister O’Gorman added: “Supporting the LGBTI+ community is a key goal for my Department.

“The funding announced today recognises the need for access to LGBTI+ services right across Ireland.

“It will help improve quality of life for LGBTI+ people and ensure they are supported in realising their rights.”

O’Mhurchú raises issue of mental health funding The impact of the pandemic on mental health services and funding was raised by Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú at the Dáil’s Covid-19 Committee last week.

The Sinn Féin TD focused on how just seven percent of annual health funding is spent in the State, while the World Health Organisation recommends 12%.

He noted that there had been an increase in web-based mental health services offered during the lockdown, but these are ‘limited by geography and internet access’ and those who are ‘impacted by adverse childhood experiences and older people’ are not able to access the ‘escape of work or school’.

The Dundalk TD also raised the issue of ‘dual diagnosis’, where people who are struggling with mental health problems and who also have addiction issues are ‘falling between services’.

He asked: ‘What are the protocols, resources and legislation required to ensure that no wrong door

‘separation between mental health services and addiction services doesn’t serve the individual well’.

He said: ‘We need to build services that are person-centric and are not funding or structurally dependent. People do turn to prescription drugs, alcohol and street drugs as a response to the great distress they are feeling about averse childhood experience or trauma.

‘Families are trying to support them and the no wrong door approach is really important because people need to be received at the point of presentation. We would advise a ‘warm handover’ of people so you don’t get to leave one service until you are handed over to another’.

On the dual diagnosis question, Mr Rogan said: ‘It’s not a realistic model to tell young people with Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. psychosis to come back when they to access services is put in opera- have stopped smoking weed’. tion?’

Mr Ó Murchú said that another The CEO of Mental Health Ire- group who tend to fall between land, Martin Rogan, replied that the services are those with behavioural

problems and it is the case at the moment that Gardaí are having to deal with those.

The Acting Clinical Director of Jigsaw, Paul Loughmore, explained how ‘some people find themselves in this situation and the nature of their difficulties excludes them from all services’.

He said: ‘They end up going between services without any clear line of responsibility or one service taking them on.

‘Service integration is the key in this situation. Mental health services are often presented with unique and complex situations. If they come together to discuss which is best or which combination is best, that benefits the individual.

‘Greater communication and collaborative decision-making means that no-one will have no service and be bounced into tonnes of referrals.

It allows for care where services come together to offer a suite of support to meet the needs of people and their families’.

1—What is the name given to the fat of a whale?

2—What is the smallest county in Northern Ireland?

3—Who was the first Christian Emperor of Rome?

4—What is the national tree of Canada?

5—The Riksdag is the name of the parliament of which country?

6—How many pockets are there in a billiards table?

7—What is known as the “Ship of the desert”?

8—Who lives at No. 11 Downing Street in London?

9—What is the only

living animal with four forward facing knees?

10—Who did Stephen Kenny take over from as manager of Dundalk FC in 2012 Stinker—Name the only US State which has just one syllable.

—this week’s answers— Answers: 1/ Blubber. 2/ Co. Armagh. 3/ Constantine. 4/ The Maple Tree. 5/ Sweden. 6/ 6.

7/ A Camel. 8/ The Chancellor of the Exchequer.9/ Elephant. 10/ Darius Kearns. Stinker- Maine.

Minister Helen McEntee at Dundalk Outcomers.

Funding OF €700,000 will be made available to LGBTI+ groups across the country including Dundalk Outcomers.

Minister Helen McEntee and Minister Roderic O’Gorman made the announcement at Outcomers, a service for the LGBTI+ community in Dundalk on Friday, July 17.

“We are delighted Outcomers was chosen for this announcement. It shows how well regarded Outcomers is as a service in the country,” said Outcomers spokesperson Bernadine Quinn.

The funding aims to

Hair salon closes following positive Covid-19 test

By Tamara O’Connell A hair salon in Louth has been temporarily closed after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.

The closure of Envy Hair Studio in Ardee was confirmed on Thursday, July 16 on social media.

The owner of Envy Hair Studio, Linda Winstone, is said to be ‘devastated’ to have to close temporarily after a member of staff tested positive for COVID-19.

All staff were tested for COVID-19, which all came back negative. They are currently selfisolating awaiting the results of a second test.

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Eimear’s work to feature at the National Gallery

Dromiskin woman Eimear Murphy is one of three Irish artists to have their work showcased in an upcoming exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland.

The exhibition, titled Lace, Paint, Hair, showcases work created by Eimear and two other artists in lockdown.

“My work investigates the properties of everyday or ‘non-traditional art materials’. My most recent works, exhibited in Lace, Paint, Hair, explore how materials connect us to the past, the future and each other,” said Eimear.

“During lockdown I was prevented from accessing my studio but pre-

sented with the opportunity to consider other resources.

“I began ‘Hair Correspondence’ with a call out on social media for hair clippings. Over 60 contributors sent hair via post which was combined, hand spun, and transformed into raw material for relief drawing.”

Eimear’s work will be on display this summer as part of a new free exhibition which is set to open on July 25.

The display features a series of mixed media artworks by Eimear, handmade lace by Fiona Harrington and oil paintings by Cian McLoughlin. For over 100 days this year, the National Gallery of Ireland closed its

doors. Though the building was closed, work at the Gallery continued.

Countless people make up the fabric of this historic institution, including an ever-growing number of contemporary artists who contribute to the Gallery’s collection and programme. Eimear has an established and unique relationship with the National Gallery of Ireland, and has made significant contributions to its public programme in recent years. During the Gallery’s closure, conversations with artists continued.

Eimear’s work during this time was shaped by the ever-changing circumstances brought about by the global pandemic.

Eimear Murphy.

Community spirit shown by Bay Estate residents Ramparts-Blackwater

An incredible community effort by residents in Bay Estate at the weekend saw litter being picked up and drains being cleaned.

The efforts were assisted by those who cleared up outside their own houses and the level of community spirit was evident by the numbers of people who turned up to help with the clean up, which was organised by the Bay Estate Neighbourhood Watch.

Cllr. Kevin Meenan

Some of the volunteers who took part in the Bay Esate Neighbourhood Watch clean up last Saturday ing sure that the estate organised litter pickers many who took part.

He said: ‘It was great is cleaned up. It is a big and bin bags from Louth County Council and Bay to see so many people area and while there Estate resident, Ruairí Ó out on Saturday, get- was a lot done, it is clear Murchú was one of the ting involved and mak- there is a lot more to do.

‘The community spirit was brilliant and everyone was happy to muck in and get as much done as possible. I was glad to see people clearing up outside their own houses, as this made all the difference to those who were cleaning up.

‘There is another clear-up organised for next Saturday, July 25, weather permitting, and I would encourage everyone to get involved and do their part to ensure that Bay Estate looks it very best’.

river walk completed

Louth County Council has announced the completion of the Ramparts-Blackwater river walk, a €125,000 project in Dundalk.

The Ramparts-Blackwater river walk was formerly an unofficial pathway along the Blackwater River, from the Dublin Road to the Avenue Road.

The upgrade includes a combined footpath and cycleway, a pedestrian crossing and safety railings at Long Avenue, as well

as landscaping, seating, and lighting.

The manhole covers along the route, which provide access for river culvert maintenance, have also been covered under the scheme.

The project received €100,000 in funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Irish Government under the Outdoor Recreation Scheme, with match funding from the local authority.

Ministers visit Dundalk Outcomers

Minister Helen McEntee addresses Dundalk Outcomers.

Helen McEntee with Bernardine Quinn.

Minister Helen McEntee with Bern ardine Quinn from Dundalk Outcome rs.

at Dundalk Minister Roderick O’Gorman speaking

Outcomers.

Minister Helen McEntee.

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

Engage4Change launch Communiversity in Omeath Engage4Change in partnership with Maynooth University is bringing the university out into our community as part of Communiversity (Community + University).

On Friday 17th July 2020 the university came to Omeath to talk to local women about the courses that can be delivered here.

Communiversity is about People; it brings the university out into local communities where people can attend courses in the familiar surroundings of their community centres and libraries, without having to worry about exams, essays or assignments. Communiversity gives people the chance to discuss topics that they might wonder about everyday but don’t usually have a chance to explore in depth.

Local Studies will commence next Friday 24th July 2020, 10am to 12.30pm, in the Granvue Hotel, Omeath. We will spend the first 3 weeks exploring our history. This will be followed by ‘economics for us’ and ‘community development’.

Tony Weekes of Maynooth University said “Economics is about the way we live. It’s not

Foreground: Joanne McAteer Engage4Change; Helen Thompson Omeath District Development Company; Kathleen O’Brien Engage4Change; Back: Tony Weekes Maynooth University; Dr Margaret Nugent Maynooth University; Dr Derek Barton Maynooth University; Dr Miriam Moffitt Maynooth University.

about growth rates, share prices, unemployment. It’s about how we create a society which is served by the economy”.

Margaret Nugent also of Maynooth University said “Congratulations to Engage4Change for your initiative and determination in bringing the university into this community. Border dwellers have specialist knowledge that academia can learn from.

We look forward to sharing the learning journey”.

Miriam Moffitt, Maynooth University said “Engagement with communities, such as is happening in Omeath, enables

people to engage with each other and with the past in a constructive and enriching way. It enables us to re-assess our perception of history and to gain new insights into the workings and depictions of the past through different lens’s”.

Helen Thompson, Omeath District Development, said “This Communiversity Initiative could only happen through the funding we have received from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI). This enabled us to create a legacy of personal development, empowerment and positive community engagement. Over the next 8

weeks we will test the waters to see what the possibilities are to deliver accredited courses in Omeath in the future”.

Local people who attended the launch today reacted positively. Tracy said “I found the presentations very interesting, I am looking forward to next week”.

Sharon said “The ‘economics for us’ presentation made me think about economics in a different way and I want to learn more”.

Ann said “I came along today out of curiosity and I loved the energy and enthusiasm of the presenters”.

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Marshes Shopping Centre cleans up at awards ceremony

Marshes Shopping Centre cleaned-up at a prestigious awards ceremony in London for its work in maintaining the highest standards for customers.

The iconic Dundalk landmark was a finalist in the highly-respected Kimberly-Clarke Golden Service Awards 2020, and won its category.

Momentum Support, which provides contract cleaning services at Marshes, won the award in the less than one million square foot category for its work at the popular centre.

Centre manager Seán Farrell paid tribute to the internal Marshes housekeeping team for their work in help-

ing secure the coveted award.

“Marshes takes its responsibilities to customers very seriously and believes its bright environment has helped shape its success,” he said.

“Momentum Support and our inhouse team have demonstrated wonderfully high standards in helping maintain Marshes and they consistently improve the shopping experience for customers.

“We are delighted. To reach the final was wonderful, but to win an award is an absolutely fantastic achievement.

“It is also testament to everybody at Marshes and I thank all involved

here for their strong support and commitment.”

Taking place every two years, the awards ceremony provides an opportunity for in-house cleaning teams and contract cleaners to showcase their excellence and set the benchmark for exceptional standards.

This year’s event took place at the prestigious London Hilton in Mayfair.

Over its 30 year history, the Kimberly-Clark Golden Service Awards have become the most the most sought-after accolades in the cleaning industry.

Despite the nearby border, Marsh-

es has been bucking retail footfall trends to welcome millions of visitors every year and become the north east’s retail success story.

The centre, which opened in 2005, was built at a cost of €150m, and hailed as one of the most modern, high quality shopping environments in Ireland, aimed at transforming the commercial heart of Dundalk.

The 350,000 sq ft Marshes Centre sits on a 28-acre site and has an innovative design comprising modern and traditional elements, including three domes in the glass ceiling which ensure it is filled with natural light.

Marshes Shopping Centre secured first prize in the less than one million square foot category at the Kimberly-Clarke Golden Service Awards 2020. (l-r)- Vladimir Mihailov, Sharon McNally Willie Dunne, Sean Farrell and Krysztof Plenszler.

New employer-led training initiative for Louth and Meath Louth and Meath ETB are proud to have been selected to pilot a new national training initiative, in collaboration with SOLAS, to aid local businesses, particularly during these challenging economic times. Formulated under the ‘Skills to Advance’ scheme, this newly developed programme provides the opportunity for employers to avail of highly subsidised training in Leadership and Management Skills, certified at Level 6, on the National Framework of Qualifications.

Louth and Meath

ETB are one of only four ETB’s nationally who are involved in this pilot project, working collaboratively with Cavan Monaghan ETB, Donegal ETB and Mayo-Sligo-Leitrim ETB. Developed in conjunction with the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and the Regional Skills Fora, this innovative new programme will enable employers to avail of highly subsidised training in all areas of Leadership and Management for their businesses.

Speaking at the launch of the pro-

Kelvin Harvey (Left), Adult Education Officer, Aoife McDaid, Employer Engagement Officer, Aisling Sheridan, Adult Education Officer, Ciaran O’Mathúna, Area Training Manager, Paul Rosbotham, Asst. Training Centre Manager and Sadie Ward-McDermott, Director of Further Education and Training at the launch of the new employer-led training initiative, ‘Skills to Advance’ for Louth and Meath.

gramme at the Regional Skills and Training Centre, Dundalk, Director of Further Educa-

tion and Training, Sadie Ward McDermott said ‘Louth and Meath ETB are proud to pilot this

exciting new initiative, which will greatly assist businesses to prevail during these difficult

times. We are proud to be one of the first ETB’s in the country to pilot this programme under the regional and sectoral aspect of our industry specific scheme, ‘Skills to Advance’.

In these challenging times, training is more important than ever to ensure business success and LMETB are committed to working with the business community to assist them however way we can’.

The Area Training Manager of the Regional Skills and Training Centre, Dr. Ciarán Ó’ Mathúna also commented that ‘The RSTC is

proud be involved in the development and delivery of this programme, as it will enable many employers, who have been financially impacted by the COVID crisis, to avail of heavily subsidised training, in order to equip them and their staff with the necessary skills and tools to navigate a more competitive and challenging landscape ahead.

‘Skills to Advance is an innovative programme, developed by SOLAS, which supports those in employment to avail of upskilling and reskilling opportunities’, according to

Dundalk Tennis Summer Camp

Smiling for the cameras at Dundalk Tennis Club summer camp.

Having fun at the Dundalk Tennis Club

summer camp.

Dundalk Tennis Club’s Head Coac h John McGahon putting some youn g players through their paces at last week’s summer camp.

Kids get into the swing of things at

Dundalk Tennis Club’s summer cam p.

Dr. Aisling Sheridan, Adult Education Officer with LMETB. ‘It provides employees with the means to adapt and keep pace with changes in technology or simply to progress in their chosen area of work.

The training programme will commence on 4th August and anyone with queries can contact Aoife Mc Daid, Employer Engagement Officer with LMETB by emailing skillstoadvance@lmetb.ie.

Further information is also available at www.lmetb.ie, www.

SOLAS.ie and www. fetchcourses.ie.

11

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

Family Notices novena

novena

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

NOVENA TO SAINT MARTHA

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.B.

St. Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith, I offer up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my difficulties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when Our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have definite pity in regard to the favour I ask (Mention favour). Intercede for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon which thou didst cast at thy feet. One Our Father and three Hail Marys, and a Glory Be Amen; and a lighted candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made known with the intentions of spreading devotion to St. Martha.

This miraculous Saint grants everything before the Tuesdays are ended. No matter how difficult. E.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). K.M.

in memoriam

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DUNDALK GOLF CLUB while his bogey five at the index 18th par four 14th only yielded him a point, McKeown went on to par the 16th and 18th for two more three point returns and what proved to be a winning score of 41pts.

Reigning Golfer of the Year, Clem Walshe shot 35pts to take the Gross Prize won countback while Hanratty claimed Category 1. L Matthews Jnr (17) took Category 2 and John Laverty (20) was the winner of Category 3 with Conail Mullins (19) taking the Juvenile Prize.

The Wednesday Open Singles Stableford resumed last week and Damian Garland (8) was the first winner

special services

special services

PROPERTY/RENTALS 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.

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.

HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www. everkleenservices.ie.

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out.

Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

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

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

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 086-109-7358.

Building Services Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted.

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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.

Retired reliable local man with Safe Pass available for Painting & Decorating, Internal and External,30 years’ experience, also General Garden Maintenance and Garage Clearance. Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472.

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

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

PAINTER AND WALLPAPERING—Local man for painting and papering. Very reliable, neat and tidy work carried out.

Competitive rates. No job too small. Call 086-876-0272.

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 0895508.

PATIOS—All types of paving slabs laid, free quotations. Call Paul 086 331 8882.

MURAL ARTIST AVAILABLE for home or business premises, internal & external.

See facebook cnmuraldesigns for previous works. Tel. Colin 086 212 4074.

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €65 + vat per thousand Phone 042 932 0888.

articles for sale McKENNA 7th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Pearse McKenna, late of Rockfield Court, Hoey’s Lane, Dundalk.

I am not gone, I am here beside you Just in a different form Look for me in your heart and you will find me, In our love, which forever lives on.

—Love always from your wife Sheena, daughter Taragh and all the McKenna family.

“Chimney Corner” Ard Easmuinn Rd, Dundalk.

Seventeen handicapper Pat McKeown was the winner of the Jubilee Cup which was held over the weekend of July 11 and 12 and attracted an entry of 264 players.

McKeown shot 41pts to hold off the challenge of J.E. McEnaney (14) who took second place on a back six countback from Eugene Hanratty (9).

Playing on Sunday, McKeown went out in 20pts thanks to three point pars at the second, fourth and ninth and his only dropped shot was a one-point double bogey six at the eighth. More three point pars followed at the 10th and 13th and

PROPERTY/RENTALS

of 2020 with a score of 40pts, two ahead of Alan Uzell (17) with Andrew Keenan (4) in third a point further back. Eoin Murphy claimed his second best gross score since competitions resumed with 36pts and Eoin Purton (18) took the Juvenile Prize.

A Nine Hole competition is now being played each Monday and Lee Egan (20) took last Monday’s on countback from Tom Clarke (18) after both had shot an impressive 21pts. The pair were level on the back six, three, and two holes with Egan’s par on the last eventually trumping Clarke’s bogey. # The Paddy Mar-

key and Veterans Cup event will be used as a qualifier for the Harry Walsh Cup, with the top 16 players entering the matchplay draw while the qualifier for the Carolan Cup will be Leslie Walker’s Professional’s Prize with the 16 players entering the Matchplay draw.

Both these events will be completed by late October There will be a Ladies and Gents event arranged for the Bank Holiday weekend including a singles event on the Saturday and Sunday which will be open to ladies, gents and juveniles. There will be a team event on the Bank Holiday Monday.

Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have, Sofas from €299, Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

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The Dundalk Leader.

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 087-2259799.

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

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building plastering plumbing, painting, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, gardening, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael 085-830-9878.

A-ALTERATIONS—For all your clothing alteration needs. 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.

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.

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ALLOY WHEELS—Set of four, 2002 Ford Focus, very good tyres. €300. Tel. 089 413 4959.

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

14

Call to support An Tain Arts Centre Recently-appointed senator Erin McGreehan who has been a Board Member of An Tain Arts Centre since her election in 2019 wants to encourage people to support our local arts and artists and our local Arts Centre.

She also wants to congratulate the Director Paul Hayes and his small but incredibly dedicated team on providing a full arts programme over the past few months. “It has been very difficult but An

Tain Arts Centre accepted the challenge and delivered a strong programme and continues to do so”, stated Erin.

A sample of the programme included online concerts featuring Zoe Conway, John McIntyre, Roisin Ward Morrow, Dáithi Kearney and Sophie Coyle. They commissioned a series of short stories and poems examining the way we live now. They continued the film club online with Net-

flix parties and post show zoom interviews with the film’s stars. It is expected that live film clubs will return in August. There have been numerous virtual visual arts exhibitions featuring: Ciara Agnew, Orla Barry, Patrick Conyngham, Siobhan Conyngham, Mary Cowan, Orlaith Cullinane, Marty Garland, Declan Kelly, Alistair Livingstone, Geraldine Martin, Sean McGuill, Sarah McKenna, Grainne Murphy,

Omin, Anna Marie Savage. The physical gallery will reopen on July 24.

“I encourage everyone to log on to the An Tain Arts Social Media pages, the website and stay tuned for updates on exciting and incredibly creative ways to showcase what we have in Louth, there are so many benefits to taking part and enjoying creative arts, I know it has helped so many including myself through the lockdown,” Erin McGreehan. she stated.

An Tain to re-open on Saturday 25th July An Tain Arts Centre in Dundalk is due to re-open its doors to the public on Saturday, July 25. Some of Off-Site, the free programme presented by An Tain during lockdown will continue as restrictions ease.

An exhibition of portraits by Leanne Mullen called ‘This Time, These Days’ is running in Dundalk town centre until August 31.

The drawings have been on display in various shopfronts on Clanbrassil St. and have been very well received.

Leanne has spoken of her delight at seeing the portaits on display in such a public way and hopes this can happen more going forward.

Meanwhile, an exhibition by artist Els Borghart called ‘A

Leanne Mullen.

Drawing a Day…’ is running in the Basement Gallery from July 25 - August 22.

A Drawing a Day…’ focuses on the idea of journaling through drawing in response to the Covid-19 crisis. Artist Els Borghart lives and works in Drogheda and her drawings are a creative response to the impact of social

distancing and isolation as the new normal.

During the artist’s An Táin Arts Centre Instagram take-over in May, quick one-hour drawings explored visually how this narrative evolved over the course of 31 days.

This exhibition of work marks An Táin Arts Centre’s return to the Basement Gallery

following the closure of the building on March the 12th 2020.

Els is a founding member, co-director and curator with ELS + DECLAN and EDDE Art. She exhibits regularly in Ireland and Belgium. Her work was shortlisted for the renowned Zürich Portrait Prize 2019 by the National Gallery of Ireland and subsequently became part of the Belgian State Art Collection.

Artist Zoom Talk: Friday 24th July at 8pm: Join us for an online launch with the exhibiting artist in discussion with Director/ CEO Paul Hayes.

For more information contact www.antain.ie Box Office: 042 9332332 An Táin Arts Centre, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

North East Concert Hall set to re-open ‘covid ready’ with a Trip Down The Yellow Brick Road!

As the country slowly reopen’s and finds its feet again after a very challenging few months, the owner of The TLT Concert Hall in Drogheda Co. Louth Patrick Leddy is optimistic and enthusiastic about the future for the venue but Patrick explains that he is in no doubt that the road ahead will be a difficult one and will only be possible with the right support from the Government and the public.

“We rely on the public to come to our show’s and support our venues and live

entertainers and if it wasn’t for the support that we have received from the local community here in Louth and indeed the surrounding county’s of Meath, Monaghan and Dublin both in the past and more recently we simply wouldn’t exist.

“I’d like to sincerely thank all of our customers for their support and patience throughout this difficult time. Everybody has been so understanding with regards to event’s being rescheduled and the difficulty’s and loss’s that we as an industry face as a result

of that. However, I would call on the government to support the entertainment industry more. So many businesses in our sector are suffering so badly as a result of the Covid-19 situation and job’s are being lost left right and centre which is going to make it even more difficult for the industry to recover.

“All current tickets remain valid for the rescheduled dates and we have posted all the information on our newly revamped website (www.TheTLT. ie) where customers can

also see answers to many frequently asked questions relating to Covid 19 and the measures that we have in place to ensure our customers and staff’s safety.

“We also have lots of new show’s coming in 2021 including some major headline acts from the UK comedy scene. We used the lockdown period to give our venue a much needed revamp, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone back into our newly renovated venue and kick off the Autumn season with a trip down the yellow brick road

as we welcome the musical The Wizard of Oz to The TLT Concert Hall this October from the 17th to the 25th.

“The producers of the show have been working conscientiously on creating a social distance compliant stage production so all of the cast and crew are kept safe at all times. Tickets start at just €15 plus booking fee so it’s very reasonably priced and I hope that people will come out to see this spectacular production and that we can bring some joy back into peoples lives.

We plan on running one of the show’s as a fundraising event for front line staff.

I think the work that they have done for our country in the past number of months is incredible, and we are keen to show our appreciation.

“I hope to see our venue doors back open by the end of August and hopefully by that stage the Government will be implementing some plans to save the entertainment industry here in Ireland and not stand back as smaller venues and production companies are forced

to close their doors. We all have to work together to get through this and I plan to drive on with our reopening and I hope that by bringing The Wizard Of Oz musical to our venue this October it will encourage other venues to do the same and start the re-build process, but all of this requires the continued support of the public too. If people don’t buy tickets it’s all for nothing,” stated Patrick.

Meanwhile the TLT will hold auditions for Snow White in the theatre on the 23rd of August.

Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020

15

Fuel prices begin to trend upwards as traffic volumes return After a series of month-on-month decreases at the pumps, the average cost of both petrol and diesel in Ireland has increased this month, as traffic volumes continue to increase.

According to the AA’s latest fuel price study, the cost of a litre of petrol, which had last month fallen to the lowest level recorded by the organisation since March 2016, has increased this month

by 4.1c. On average, a litre of petrol now costs 125.9c – up from last month’s average price of 121.8c. Meanwhile, diesel prices saw a similar increase now costing on average 117.3c per litre com-

pared to last month’s price of 113.9c.

Despite this increase, both fuels remain significantly below prices seen at the start of 2020, when a litre of petrol cost 144.5c, with diesel

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spread of COVID-19, but the good news for now is that we have yet to see any significant increases,” Faughnan added.

costing 135.9c on average.

“While crude oil prices have increased slightly over the past month, the big change has been in terms of national and global demand for both fuels.

On many major routes across the country, such as the M50, M11 and N7, traffic levels have returned to between 80% and 90% of volumes seen 12 months ago. With similar trends being seen in other countries as lockdown restrictions are eased, the global demand for petrol and diesel has begun to increase with this now reflected at the pumps,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “Noone can truly say with

any accuracy where fuel prices are heading in the long-term, but for now it appears that the month-on-month drops in petrol and diesel prices which we have seen since February are a thing of the past.”

Following a shortterm, significant drop in late April and early May, crude oil prices have continued to trend upwards – but still remain significantly below levels seen before

the COVID-19 outbreak. Currently, Brent Crude Oil is trading at approximately $43 per barrel, up from a price of $40-$41 per barrel in late June. However, this price of crude oil remains significantly below prices of up to $65 per barrel seen in late 2019.

“It was expected that both fuel and crude oil prices would start to increase as countries began to ease measures introduced to fight the

“It appears that working from home at least a few days a week is something which will stay with us long into the future, along with significant increases in the number of people choosing to walk or cycle, meaning that rush hour traffic volumes may remain below pre-COVID levels for the time being.

However, with many of us likely to be holidaying in Ireland this summer, the fact that fuel prices remain low is welcome for those planning a trip across the country.”

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BMW BMW CITROEN FIAT HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI HYUNDAI KIA MAZDA MAZDA NISSAN NISSAN NISSAN NISSAN OPEL PEUGEOT PEUGEOT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT RENAULT SEAT SEAT SEAT SEAT SKODA SKODA TOYOTA VW VW VW VOLVO VOLVO

PRICE

€27990 €21990 €16990 €17990 €10990 €15990 €19990 €11990 €26990 €28990 €9990 €16990 €13990 15990 €19990 €19990 €18990 €13500 €14990 €23990 €13990 €14990 €14990 €14990 €17990 €19990 €13990 €13990 €14450 €19990 €25990 €13990 €19990 €20990 €21990 €15450 €21450 €20990 €22990

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Dundalk Leader 22nd July 2020