Staunton opens legends exhibition at County Museum Page 9
Shoreline Showdown
Blackrock residents unite to fight for a clean beach
By Paul Byrne
THIS Saturday morning, residents from Blackrock will meet at the Sundial in the village for a protest to save their beach. The event has been arranged by a dedicated group of concerned parents who wish to protest against the smell, the sludge, and the pollution around their beach which they say has become impossible to ignore. This year’s Raft Race which traditionally took place every summer in the water was moved to land due to concerns over the water quality in the area.
Brian Hopper, who has helped to organise the protest under the banner of community group ‘Fighting Dirty’ says that local residents have had enough of being ignored and are campaigning to get their beach back again.
“Every kid deserves to be able to go down to the beach and enjoy the simple pleasures of building a sandcastle or going for a splash in the water. Those innocent activities are being taken away from this generation due to pollution in our waters and we have had enough. Blackrock is a seaside village and we are a community shaped by the sea.
Continued on Page 2
English music festival apologise to Mary Wallopers
ORGANISERS of the Victorious Music Festival in Portsmouth have apologised to popular Dundalk band, The Mary Wallopers after admitting that their initial statement which said that the show was cut short after the band used “a chant which is widely understood to have a discriminatory context” was incorrect.
The Mary Wallopers were playing on the Main Stage last Friday, unveiling a Palestinian flag as they took to the stage. Footage of their performance shows a crew member confronting the band about the flag, which was draped
on the stage, and then removing it. Shortly afterwards the sound was cut from all mics.
A statement from Victorious initially claimed that this was done after the band used “a chant which is widely understood to have a discriminatory context”. However, this was strongly rejected by the band as they released their own statement refuting those claims.
“The festival have released a misleading statement to the press claiming they cut our sound because of a discriminatory chant and not the band’s call to Free Palestine. Our
video clearly shows a Victorious crew member coming on stage, interfering with our show, removing the flag from the stage and then the sound being cut following a chant of ‘Free Palestine’.
The same crew member is later heard in the video saying ‘you aren’t playing until the flag is removed’.
“We completely reject Victorious’ portrayal of today’s events and re-
quest that they retract their statement immediately.”
Victorious then put out a subsequent statement apologising for the situation.
“We are in the business of putting on great shows, not cutting them off and this is the last thing we wanted, for the band, their fans and ourselves. We didn’t handle the explanation of our
policies sensitively or far enough in advance to allow a sensible conclusion to be reached. This put the band and our own team in a difficult situation which never should have arisen. We would like to sincerely apologise to all involved.
“We absolutely support the right of artists to freely express their views from the stage, within the law and the inclusive
nature of the event. Our policy of not allowing flags of any kind, which has been in place for many years for wider event management and safety reasons, is not meant to compromise that right.”
The organisers said they would be making “a substantial donation to humanitarian relief efforts for the Palestinian people”.
Residents unite to fight for a clean beach
From Page 1
From the raft race and our heritage as a fishing village to the cockle picking traditions of the past but unfortunately the beach we all love is in grave danger and could be lost to pollution and neglect if we don’t act now.
“We know the water is unsafe. I have tested it myself and the level of ecoli is beyond any safe limits. This is a public health issue which isn’t being addressed. Louth County Council are under no obligation to test it as it is not a designated beach.
We have Templetown and Shillinghill in the north of Dundalk Bay and Port in the South which are designated blue flag beaches and we have nothing in between. There are no safe swimming areas in the central bay of Dundalk.
“Uisce Eireann are permitted to use stormwater outlet pipes (SWO) to release stormwater in periods of heavy rain to act as relief valves within the system. They say that the sewage which is released
into the sea is heavily diluted and that the discharge is fully screened but I have taken videos of the SWO’s and it is clear that there is sewage coming out of the pipes. It is a combined sewer system so there cannot be any separation of sewage and flood waters.
“We know that Uisce Eireann released over 1 million litres of untreated sewage into the River Fane between the 14th and 15th of July. They cited a Yellow Weather warning as their reason for doing this even though that Yellow Weather warning only applied to the South of the country. The release contained untreated sewage which should have been sent to the Waste Water Treatment Plant in Blackrock but it wasn’t as that treatment plant is now running beyond its designed capacity.
“Uisce Eireann have acknowledged the issue but say it can’t be fixed until at least 2029. For us that is not good enough and that is why we are protesting this weekend,” stated Brian.
“I’ve been living in Blackrock for over thirty years and the problem is worse now than it ever was. I first became aware of issues during COVID. I am a landscape photographer and during Covid I was out on the beach taking photographs much more often. I began to notice a large amount of nappies, period pads, tissues etc washed up on the shore and it was pretty horrifying. We feel as though we are being ignored and the community have had enough,” added Brian.
Local councillor Shane McGuinness will be supporting the Blackrock community this Saturday by joining the ‘Walk for Water’ protest which will see residents walk from the Community Centre to
the Sundial for a practical demonstration where all locals can link hands and stretch along the promenade in a visible show of support for the beach.
“I will be supporting the residents of Blackrock on this issue and will be attending the ‘Walk for Water’ on Saturday. This is an issue I have been raising for a number of years and since becoming a councillor I have spoken out strongly against the use of temporary, above ground treatment units being installed in residential areas. This is simply not acceptable in a modern growing community. This area is zoned for more houses being built. Before that happens we need to fight for a new or upgraded wastewater treatment plant for Dundalk South.
“The wastewater treatment plant currently serving Blackrock is at capacity and not fit for purpose. Uisce Eireann have acknowledged that they need to upgrade the Dundalk Waste Water Treatment Plant but the problem is this won’t happen until 2029 at least which is not good enough.
“What happens now is that everytime there is heavy rainfall or storms they have to open the taps and let untreated sewage into the sea which simply isn’t good enough. As a temporary solution I am proposing to Louth County Council to do what they do in the UK and when they know heavy rain is coming to have tankards available and transfer the overflow access pipes to these tankards before disposing the waste in a proper way. The alternative is to just accept what is happening now for the next five or six years and that is simply not an option. The fact that Uisce Eireann has admitted that there is a problem is a huge win for the strength of the move-
ment in Blackrock from the local community and people like Brian Hopper who have submitted evidence to Uisce Eireann and the EPA showing exactly what is happening to our water.
The Council must meet up with Uisce Eireann and try and work together to fix this. It’s not good enough to pass the responsibility fully on to Uisce Eireann. We need to get this issue sorted now and make Blackrock beach usable once more for the local community,” stated Shane.
Uisce Éireann, insist they are committed to protecting the water and enhancing the environment and in relation to the water quality at Blackrock Beach they stated the following.
“Algal bloom is naturally occurring and is prevalent during periods of warm weather. In addition, nutrient rich water is
this area comes naturally from the marsh land. It is common for algae to be mistakenly reported as sewage effluent.
“Dundalk Bay biosphere has various vegetation types growing on its seabed, much of which is within a Special Area of Conservation. This particular material is currently both floating in the sea water and washing up onto coastal marshes and beaches during high tides. It is a naturally occurring seaweed or macro algae called Ectocarpus.
Toward the end of its lifecycle Ectocarpus quickly progresses through various stages of decay and it is at this time of year the decaying Ectocarpus can be mistaken for effluent or sewage.
“Ectocarpus siliculosis is considered to be a naturally occurring nuisance species, typically growing on the seabed from early springtime until the
end of its lifecycle in the autumn when it dies out. At this time of year, the seaweed is decaying and becoming uprooted from the seabed and washes ashore at various locations along Dundalk Bay. When Ectocarpus begins to physically degrade, it can produce a malodour, as experienced by the public. Its colour also dissipates from a healthy green colour to light then dark brown as it continues to decay in the water or beaches or marsh. Furthermore, when the weed washes ashore onto the beach after a high tide, the seaweed dries out and may be incorrectly identified as caked sewage “As part of recent site visits to the Blackrock area of Dundalk Bay, EPA inspectors also determined that the residual material deposited is natural organic matter incoming with high tides,” concluded the statement.
The Mary Wallopers set was cut short on Friday.
CHANGE COMING FOR LOCAL VAPERS
By Darren Crawley
ONE of the most noticeable changes in modern Irish life is the prominence of people using e-cigarettes. Or to give them their colloquial name ‘vapes’.
For some, it has replaced smoking, however it has also had a huge societal impact on the country and Dundalk.
Throughout the town, pretty much every shop and convenience store have a huge stock of different flavours, vapes themselves and there are even specialised vape shops across the locality.
The Minister for Health has recently announced that there will be a change to the laws and visibility of vaping in Ireland.
SO, WHAT ARE THESE CHANGES?
Ireland is entering a significant phase in regulating vaping, with multiple measures set to reshape the sale, marketing, and use of e-cigarettes and related products. These reforms aim to reduce youth access, limit environmental waste from disposable devices, and
bring vape retailing under tighter government control.
BAN ON DISPOSABLE VAPES
One of the most high-profile measures is the ban on disposable (single-use) vapes. The Cabinet approved legislation prohibiting the sale, manufacture, and import of these products. The ban will also cover devices designed to resemble toys and other youth-appealing designs. Flavours will initially be restricted to tobacco, and packaging will be standardised with muted colours to deter marketing appeal. This measure was initially expected to take effect by the end of 2024, pending EU Single Market approval, since such trade restrictions require European Com-mis-
sion notification. While the law has been passed, reports suggest implemen-tation may be phased or delayed due to the approval process. Enforcement will involve on-the-spot inspec-tions, with penalties in-cluding fines and possible custodial sentences for persistent offenders.
MARKETING, PACKAGING, AND VISIBILITY RESTRICTIONS
The Nicotine Inhaling Products Bill introduces new rules for how vapes can be sold and displayed. Retailers will be required to keep vaping products out of public view, similar to tobacco’s “display ban” introduced in 2009. In-store advertising will be pro-hibited, point-of-sale pro-motions
will be banned, and attractive flavour descriptors (e.g., “bubblegum” or “cotton candy”) will be restricted.
These changes are intended to address concerns about the growing number of young people trying vapes, particularly products marketed in colourful, sweetflavoured forms. The legislation has been moving through the Oireachtas during 2024 and 2025, with rollout starting in mid-2025 and continuing into 2026.
RETAILER LICENSING SYSTEM
From 2 February 2026, any business selling tobacco or nicotine inhaling products will require an annual licence.
Licence fees will be around €1,000 per year for tobacco and €800 for nicotine inhaling products. Licences will not be available for temporary, pop-up, or mobile outlets.
Applicants will need to meet compliance checks and adhere to all advertising and sales rules.
This replaces the current one-time registration system for tobacco retailers and fills the gap for vape sellers, who
until now did not require a specific licence. The aim is to give regulators a clear record of all sellers and a mechanism to revoke licences for those who breach the law.
ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
The Health Service Executive (HSE) and en-vironmental officers will oversee enforcement. In-spections will focus on:
• Compliance with the disposable vape ban;
• Proper product storage (out of view);
• Verification of licensing documentation.
Non-compliance could result in on-the-spot fines, larger penalties through the courts, and potential imprisonment for repeat or severe breaches.
OVERALL IMPACT
These laws signal a shift in Ireland’s approach to vaping—from a largely unregulated market to one with strict controls mir-roring tobacco regulation. The disposable vape ban targets both environmental waste and youth uptake, while the visibility re-strictions and licensing system aim to reduce normalisation and en-
sure only compliant, traceable businesses sell nicotine products.
By early 2026, Ireland’s vaping landscape will be fundamentally different: fewer products available, tighter marketing rules, and a regulated retail en-vironment designed to put public health and youth protection first.
Ireland’s upcoming vaping laws mirror many of the strategies used in past tobacco regulation.
When tobacco controls were strengthened in the early 2000s, key measures included a ban on in-store displays, standardised packaging, strict advertising restrictions, and age-of-sale enforcement. The new vaping framework follows this blueprint almost step for step.
Just as cigarettes must be kept out of public view in shops since 2009, vapes will soon also be hidden from display, removing the visual cues that can prompt impulse purchases—espec-ially among young people. Flavour restrictions for vapes echo the long-standing ban on descriptors like “light” or
“mild” for cigarettes, aimed at preventing misleading or youth-targeted marketing.
The annual licensing system for vape retailers is directly modelled on the revised tobacco retail rules, creating a trackable network of sellers and enabling enforcement bodies to revoke licences for breaches.
Finally, the ban on disposable vapes parallels tobacco’s ongoing product restrictions—such as prohibiting certain pack sizes or menthol cigarettes—to limit accessibility and appeal.
By applying tobacco-style controls to vaping, Ireland is signalling that it sees these products as part of the same public health challenge, requiring regulation not just of sales but of visibility, marketing, and the retail environment.
So if you’re a vaper in Dundalk, you have change coming but it’s for the local and national safety!
The Irish government are regulating vaping.
Gardai crackdown on illegal scooters
THE past week has seen local Gardaí get tough on people who are riding e-scooters/e-bikes illegally. Last Wednesday gardaí took part in a national day of action in relation to powered personal transporters (electric scooters and electric bikes) where hey focused on the detection of offences in respect of
these vehicles.
Gardaí throughout the county were active around the county enforcing this legislation.
Dundalk Roads
Policing Unit observed the rider of an E scooter pulling wheelies on Market Square Dundalk.
Gardai stopped the rider and discovered they were not eligible to
have the scooter due to age and the scooter was missing a manufacturer’s plate (required by law) whilst obviously riding it in a pedestrian area. The e scooter was seized.
Dundalk Roads
Policing Unit were also checking the compliance and safety of e-scooters and e-bikes.
They issued multiple fines to those found using them on footpaths while the two scooters pictured were seized for:
- Having a seat (against the law)
- Being over the power output limit
- Exceeding the weight limit.
The legalities of escooters was a grey area until last year when the government issued regulations with the introduction of the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023. These new laws offered some
much-needed clarity by providing a legal framework for the use of e-bikes and e-scooters in Ireland.
Important guidelines under the new e-scooter regulations in Ireland
emphasize safety and proper e-scooter usage. Here are the key rules every rider should adhere to:
Speed Limit:
E-scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 20 km/h.
Road Position: Riders must travel on the left side of the road, following similar rules to cyclists.
Permitted Areas:
E-scooters are allowed in cycle lanes, bus lanes, and on local, regional, and national roads, but they are prohibited on motorways.
Safety Requirements:
E-scooters must have a light or reflector, a bell,
and functional brakes.
Maintenance: Regular upkeep is crucial for e-scooters. It’s recommended to check brakes, steering, and lights before each ride to ensure roadworthiness.
Age Restrictions and Usage Limitations
The latest regulations establish precise age restrictions and usage limitations for e-scooter riders:
Minimum Age: Riders must be 16 years or older.
Prohibited Areas: Riding on footpaths, pedestrian zones, and motorways is not allowed.
Single Rider Policy: E-scooters are meant
for individual use only; passengers and cargo are not permitted.
Mobile Device Usage: Similar to drivers, e-scooter users are prohibited from using mobile phones while operating their e-scooters.
In an effort to promote safe e-scooter practices, fines are imposed for rule violations:
Standard Fine: Those who disregard traffic regulations may receive a €50 fine.
Serious Offenses: Riders found operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol may face a €2,000 fine.
HANLEY ENERGY SHARE MESSAGE OF ROAD SAFETY WITH SHUTTLE BUS
HANLEY Energy employ over 500 people in Ireland all of whom are road users, the H&S management team invited the RSA to two of our facilities in August to share the important message of Road Safety to all our employees, supplies, neighbors, and trade partners. We would like to thank the RSA team for their time and passion.
14th August saw Hanley Energy hosting the Road Safety Authority Ireland Shuttle bus. Hanley Energy used this opportunity to extend the use of the Shuttle bus to other companies in the Dundalk area,
in attendance where members of the work force from, Hanley Energy, Designer Kitchen, Control Soft, DFC, Flexitech, as well as students from Lmetb and Amtce.
Over the course of the day the Shuttle bus offered opportunities for all to practice driving and hazard perception skills on simulators. Participants could enjoy a fully interactive road safety educational experience. Experiencing simulated virtual situations in several virtual reality pods and experience firsthand the dangers of driving and texting and driver fatigue.
Participants could also see how driving environments and speed affect your braking distances on the brake reaction timer, practice the driver theory test on board. The shuttle bus staff were on hand all day to offer support and safety information to all road users. The team educated over 200 people on the day.
Hanley Energy and the companies in attendance would like to thank the RSA and its team, Nickey, Michael, Gerry and Tom for their passion and drive to improve road safety in Ireland. Go to www.rsa.ie for more information.
Hanley energy Health and Safety team and members of the Hanley family.
Scooters were seized during crackdown.
These Are the Waves: Celebrating the Music of Conway Savage
THIS September, Culture Club, Dundalk proudly presents These Are the Waves — a three-day celebration honouring the life and music of Conway Savage, the soulful singer, composer and pianist who spent over three decades as a member of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Conway’s deep connection to Dundalk began in 2000 and makes the town a fitting home for this special tribute.
Featuring some of Savage’s closest collaborators and friends, including Mick Harvey, Suzie Higgie, and Terry Edwards, this mini-festival will take place across The Spirit Store, An Táin Arts Centre, and Roe River Books from 12–14 September 2025.
The festival opens with a headline tribute concert on Friday 12 September at The Spirit Store, where a stellar lineup of artists who will perform Conway’s songs and honour his rich musical legacy.
A member of Nick
Savage.
Cave and the Bad Seeds from 1990 until his death in 2018, Conway appeared on landmark albums such as Let Love In, Murder Ballads, The Boatman’s Call, and No More Shall We Part. Conway’s connection to Dundalk began in 2000 with a performance at The Spirit Store alongside Suzie Higgie, performing songs from their celebrated collaboration Soon Will Be Tomorrow. That concert marked the start of a long and fruitful association with the town — particularly with Mark Corcoran, who released
Conway’s back catalogue in Ireland through his label, Country Gent Records. Conway recorded extensively at Derek Turner’s Tumbleweed Studios, where he mixed his 2008 live album Live in Ireland, produced Mark’s second album The Moon is X-Raying the Earth, and recorded his final release, Pussy’s Bow, in 2009.
Programme of Events: Friday 12 September
These Are the Waves – A Tribute Concert to Conway Savage
The Spirit Store, 8pm Performances by Mick Harvey, Suzie
Higgie, Terry Edwards, Jim Yamouridis, Robert Tickner, and Amanda Acevedo. spiritstore.ie
Saturday 13 September
Mick Harvey: In Conversation
An Táin Arts Centre, 1pm
Join Mick Harvey for an intimate conversation about his remarkable journey through music. antain.ie
Suzie Higgie performs Soon Will Be Tomorrow
Roe River Books, 7.30pm
Performing her 1998 collaboration with Conway Savage (Michael Stipe’s favourite album of that year!) Booking via An Táin Arts Centre antain.ie
Sunday 14 September
Mick Harvey & Amanda Acevedo in Concert
The Spirit Store, 8pm Performing selections from their duet albums Phantasmagoria in Blue, Golden Mirrors, and Harvey’s solo and Serge Gainsbourg work. spiritstore.ie
CROSS COOLEY CHALLENGE RAISES OVER €56,000 FOR TWO LOCAL CHARITIES—Members of the Cross Cooley Challenge Team with the cheque for the proceeds of this years walk. The money will be divided equally between the two very deserving local charities, North Louth Hospice and Maria Goretti Foundation. The committee thank all who took part, their generous sponsors and to everyone who helped on the day. In thirteen years the Cross Cooley Challenge has raised €487,482.
Uisce Éireann calls on consumers in Louth to sign up for free text alerts
UISCE Éireann is encouraging customers to sign up for its free text alert service as it ramps up investment in Ireland’s water infrastructure to unprecedented levels. Planned capital investment of over €10 billion over the next five years in areas such as leakage reductions, repairs to bursts and outages, and treatment plant upgrades will see hundreds of live projects underway in every corner of Ireland. This will lead to major improvements in water quality, security and resilience; however short-term disruptions are inevitable as a result, and staying informed is essential.
By signing up to the free text service, customers can receive real-time updates tailored to their area, helping them prepare for any interruptions. To date over 250,000 people have signed up to the service, and are benefiting from upto-the-minute information about their water supply. But with almost two million homes and businesses served by Uisce Éireann, we are encouraging everybody to sign up so we can keep them informed and updated.
The service provides alerts on water outages, boil water notices, and other supply interruptions
expected to last longer than four hours. Whether planned or unplanned, these alerts are delivered directly to your phone. Since the service was launched in 2024, over one million text alerts have been issued, providing essential information to customers across Ireland. Signing up is quick and easy. Simply visit https://www.water.ie and enter your Eircode and mobile number. The service is free and available to all households and businesses. You can also sign up on behalf of loved ones to ensure they receive timely updates.
Conway
Staunton Opens Sporting Legends Exhibition at County Museum
ONE of Louth’s greatest sporting sons, Stephen Staunton, received a warm welcome at the County Museum Dundalk on Wednesday morning.
The former Liverpool and Aston Villa star, who won 102 caps for the Republic of Ireland, was on hand to view his famous green jersey from the 2001 World Cup Qualifier against Portugal. The shirt is one of a collection of iconic sporting jerseys now on display in the County Museum’s new exhibition.
Also featured are jerseys from local athlete - and Ireland’s fastest sprinter - Israel Olatunde, rugby legend Rob Kearney, trailblazing boxer and Drogheda-native Deirdre Gogarty, the late Olympian Maeve Kyle, and former Dundalk FC goalkeeper Charles ‘The Wizard’ Tizard.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Stephen Staunton was part of a special Irish team that gave every football fan around the country a host of wonderful memories. He is a true legend of Dundalk, and it is fitting that his shirt is the focal point of a new exhibition that celebrates the achievements of so many Irish sporting heroes.”
the shirts on display
Brian Walsh, Curator at County Museum Dundalk, said: “This exhibition brings together jerseys worn by athletes who have represented their clubs, counties and country with distinction. Each shirt tells its own story of determination, pride and sporting excellence. We are delighted to showcase these remarkable items and to honour the men and women who wore them.”
The exhibition is now open at the and admission is free.
The Staunton brothers, David, Thomas, Stephen and Padraig, at the new exhibition at the County Museum in Dundalk.
Some of
at the County Museum in Dundalk.
GSD School of Drama Celebrates a Year of Outstanding Achievements in Performance, Exams, and Awards
GSD School of Drama is proud to celebrate an exceptional year of success, marked by stellar exam results, multiple awards at the annual Speech & Drama Feis, and a sold-out theatre production. This year, GSD students once again demonstrated their dedication, talent, and passion for the dramatic arts through remarkable performance across all areas of the school’s programme.
IMPRESSIVE EXAM RESULTS
GSD’s students achieved a 100% pass rate in their graded Speech and Drama examinations, with fourteen senior students been awarded medals of their outstanding solo performances.
These results reflect the hard work of students and the com-
mitment of the school’s experienced tutors, who continue to uphold the highest standards in drama education.
Ms Kieran states:
“We are incredibly proud of our students’ accomplishments in this year’s exams. These results are a testament to their creativity, discipline, and resilience.”
SUCCESS AT THE SPEECH & DRAMA FEIS
At this year’s prestigious All Ireland Speech & Drama Feis, GSD students earned multiple first-place trophies, along with numerous commendations and top-three placements across a range of categories, including poetry recitals, Improvisation and mime.
FUN THEATRE SHOW OF PETER PAN AND MALEFICENT
Capping off the year, GSD staged its most ambitious annual production yet:” Adventures in Neverland”, in An Tain Theatre. The production showcased the talent of students of all ages,providing both novice and experienced students a chance to perform for family and friends. The show’s success not only highlighted the school’s artistic growth but also strengthened its reputation as a nurturing ground for emerging young performers.
“Our senior acting students really excelled under the stage lights of An Tain this year”.
With another successful year drawing to a close, GSD School of Drama looks forward to Autumn 2025 continuing to inspire confidence, creativity, and excellence in every student who walks through its doors.
Social
Circle Club
The community social circle club meeting will take place in Muirhevnamór Com-munity Centre on Tuesday 2nd Sept between 12:30pm and 2:30pm. A Bellydancing Master Class will be the first activity of the end of year programme.
Active
Retirement
Active Retirement look forward to welcoming back their members following the summer break. The next meeting will take place in the Lisdoo on 1st September at 1:15pm for the Annual Club Luncheon..
The following week the meeting will take place in Carroll Meade Community Hall at 2:30pm. All welcome.
Local students receive their Leaving Cert results
THE State Examinations Commission (SEC) has congratulated the Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied can-didates whose results were issued last week.
From 10.00 am last Friday morning, Leaving Certificate candidates were able to access their provisional results through the SEC’s Candidate Self Service Portal (CSSP) at www.examinations.ie.Speaking on the 2025 Leaving Certificate results, Chair-person of the State Examinations Commission, Ms Jacinta Stewart offered her congratulations to the Leaving Certificate class of 2025;
“I, along with my fellow Commissioners, wish to extend our warmest con-gratulations to all the candidates receiving their Leaving Certificate results today. Results Day is a significant milestone in your lives, and you should be proud of your efforts and all that you have achieved. I would also like to acknowledge your families, teachers and school communities for the support they have provided to you, on your educational journey so far.”
Commenting on the efforts of the SEC to effect the gradual return to normal Leaving Certificate outcomes beginning in 2025 Ms Stewart added “Following the marking of the examinations, the SEC has imple-
mented a post-marking adjustment. This year’s adjustment has been formulated so that the overall Leaving Certificate results in the aggregate are at a point broadly midway between the 2020 and 2021 levels, still well above the 2019 levels when examinations were last run as normal. While the level of the post-marking adjust-ment has been reduced compared to previous years, the 2025 adjustment has been calibrated to meet the Minister’s commitments
to a gradual return to normal while minimising the impact on candidates to the greatest possible degree.
“In all of our work on the 2025 Leaving Certificate, we have strived to ensure that candidates are treated fairly and equitably, that results are of the highest standards of quality, and that there is full transparency for can-didates. I would encourage all candidates to ensure they are fully informed about their results and to avail of the op-
portunity to access the Candidate Self Service Portal next Tuesday when they can see more in-formation such as their component marks and the impact of the postmarking adjustment. Candidates will also be able to view their scripts and appeal their results in due course”
Ms Stewart also noted that “the successful delivery of the State examinations depends on the collaborative work of thousands of school personnel including teachers, SNAs, Principals, Dep-
uty Principals and others. I would like to acknowledge all involved in this collective undertaking. In particular, I wish to express appreciation to teachers who dedicated their summer holidays to mark examinations this year.“
It is intended to issue the Leaving Certificate appeal results on Friday 26 September. The date is pro-visional until such time as the number of appeals is known. Details will issue from the SEC in due course on the ar-
rangements for the release of the 2025 Junior Cycle Results although we expect that the results date will be in line with last year.
A total of 65,444 can-didates are receiving Leaving Certificate results this year; 60,937 candidates followed the Leaving Certificate (Established) programme, and 4,507 candidates follow-ed the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme.
A commitment has already been made that the
adjustments to examination papers and other assessment components will continue for the 2026 Leaving certificate. The timeline for phasing out these arrangements and the post-marking adjustment will be informed by the 2025 experience and in engagement with the Department of Education and Youth.
Members of the GSD School of Drama.
Eimear Costello and Brigh McEnteggart. Grace Conroy and April Conroy. Molly Whately and Eve Conway.
Isabelle Smyth, Sophie Brennan and Charlotte Agnew.
Klara Flanagan and Aimee Gartlan, with Principal Ms Fiona Butler.
Six newly attested Gardaí on route to Louth a boost to local policing McGreehan
FIANNA Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan has welcomed the deployment of 6 newly attested Gardaí to Louth, with 4 being deployed to Dundalk and 2 to Drogheda Garda Station, strengthening visible policing across the county.
Deputy McGreehan commented “The deployment of additional Gardaí is welcome. We are fortunate that every community wants to see more Gardaí visible in their area. It is one of the most effective measures we have for preventing crime and making people feel safer.
The new Gardaí are among 154 recruits who graduated from the Garda College in Templemore today. This intake represents the
largest allocation of probationer Gardaí to regions outside Dublin in the past year and reflects the government’s ongoing investment in building stronger, safer communities.
Deputy McGreehan said the arrival of additional Garda members underlines Fianna Fáil’s commitment to increasing Garda presence on the ground. McGreehan noted “This latest allocation shows that investment in Garda recruitment is making a real difference on the ground. Local stations are being reinforced so they can continue to serve and protect communities effectively.
Strengthening An Garda Síochá-
Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly to hold meeting in Dundalk tonight
PRESIDENTIAL Candidate Catherine Connolly, Independent TD for Galway West, will be visiting Dundalk tonight (Wednesday, 27 August).
As an independent TD, Leas-Cheann Comhairle, barrister and clinical psychologist, Catherine has served the people of Ireland. She has listened with integrity and stood up to advocate and campaign when needed.
Join Dundalk 4 Connolly on Wednesday, 27 August from 7.309.00pm in An Táin Arts Centre, Crowe Street, Dundalk, to welcome Catherine to Dundalk and Louth more generally, to hear about her campaign, “Guth na nDaoine – For the Common Good” and ask questions or raise comments about issues and challenges that are important for you and your community.
Places are strictly limited and can be reserved for free via antain.ie.
??? QUIZ ???
1—Which Dundalk band said they were “cut off” from performing at the Victorious music festival in England for “having a Palestinian flag on the stage”.
2—A country historically known as Abyssinia, what is the modern name for it?
3—Which country declared war on first the Allies and later Germany in World War II?
4—During which war did Florence Nightingale become famous for her work in army hospitals?
5—Before St Patrick’s Church was built at Roden Place there was another St. Patrick’s Church in Dundalk. Where was it located?
6—Who became Republic of Ireland soccer manager in February 1996 following the resignation of Jack Charlton?
7—What name is given to word that
na is a key priority for Fianna Fáil in Government, backed by a record €2.48 billion in funding in Budget 2025, a 27% increase since 2020.
A further 201 Garda recruits will begin training in Templemore this week, while another graduation is scheduled for November, ensuring a steady pipeline of new members entering the organisation.
Deputy McGreehan concluded “More Gardaí on the beat is one of the most effective ways to deter crime and enhance public safety. This latest deployment is a clear signal that government is delivering on its promise to support communities with the resources they need to feel secure.”
is spelt the same backwards?
8—Lending her name to a famous sports manufacturer, who was the Greek Goddess of Victory?
9—From what type of stone is the Taj Mahal built?
10—What name is given to a leading female singer in an Opera, and is alsoused to describe someone who is temperamental and hard to please?
The Stinker—In 1785, Blanchard and Jeffries became the first to cross the English channel using which method of transport?
ANSWERS
1—The Mary Wallopers, 2—Ethiopia, 3—Italy, 4—Crimean War, 5—The old St. Patrick’s was built in 1750 in Chapel Street. It served its purpose for almost a century. 6—Mick McCarthy, 7— Palindrome, 8—Nike, 9—Marble, 10— Prima Donna. The Stinker: Balloon.
Erin McGreehan, TD
Catherine Connolly.
FAMILY NOTICES
IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM
BYRNE John 26th ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of John Byrne, late of Laurel Grove, whose 26th anniversary occurs on 31st August, 2025.
We think of you in silence, We often speak your name, But all we have are memories, And your picture in a frame. Your resting place we visit, And put flowers there with care, But no one knows the heartache, As we turn and leave you there.
—Always loved and remembered by your Mam, Sisters, Brother, Nieces and Nephews.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 6.30pm in Redemptorist on your birthday, Saturday, 30th August.
CONWAY
May and Dominick
In loving memory of May and Dominick, whose anniversaries occur around this time.
To me you were someone special, What more can I say, I only wish with all my heart, That you were here today. Mine is just a single prayer, That God will keep you in His care.
—From your Daughters, Sons, Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren.
KAVANAGH-QUINN Lee-Jay 1st Anniversary
In loving memory of a special grandson Lee-Jay Kavanagh-Quinn, whose first anniversary is 30th August, 2025.
I close my eyes and see your face, Smiling at me from a beautiful place,
You tell me you’re never far away, And that we will meet again someday.
I ask if you could stay awhile –I miss your laugh, I miss your smile, Then you whisper softly in my ear,
“I never leave you…I’m always here.”
—Forever loved and missed. Lots of Love, Nanny Annie
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M.B.
SPECIAL SERVICES SPECIAL SERVICES
CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—10kg bags of Beech and Olive (hardwood) for sale. Tel Paul McArdle 087 6660094 / 042 9332491 Email:tribalky@yahoo.com.
CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799.
ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.
WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand. Phone 042 932 0888.
GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.
DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact—Ben 085-840-7707.
FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.
ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof—tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.
CARPENTRY & JOINERY—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.
CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.
TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden. I do it all. Grass cutting, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Strimming, Power washing, Gutter Cleaning, Fence Painting, General DIY, Flat Pack Assembly, Removals. Contact Catriona 087 3172109.
ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.
FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.305.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.
DMC GARDEN maintenance services. Hedge, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower strimming weeding beds, weedkilling, moss removal, control demolition, removal of old sheds fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. Free quote 0877019178.
MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728.
PLUMBER AVAILABLE—Bathroom renovations, Oil Boiler fitting and servicing, Attic Tanks and cylinder replacements. Can also install inside and outside taps etc etc. No Job too small. Contact Paul on 086 8897989.
PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—Interior and exterior plus Wallpapering, also sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men. Tel Brian 087 7558506.
HEALING SUPPORT SESSIONS—One on one, in-person or online consultation. Drawing for you as we talk. Call or message 0879051560.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-762-3758 for quotation.
MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.
TREE SERVICES—Tree surgery, stump grinding, wood chipping & pruning. Conifer hedge reduction and ash die back removal. Fully Insured & Certified. Contact Chambers on 087 2750825. Email rchambers2008@ yahoo.ie.
SEEKING OLD FURNITURE—New York company looking for old country furniture, Old Kitchen dressers, Old presses, Old chest of drawers, Old kitchen tables, Old Enamel signs, Old Creamery cans, Old Shop counters. Contents of houses. Must be old. No Time Wasters. Contact Roger 085 1481222.
ALL-IN-ONE PROPERTY maintenance, painting & decorating, general building maintenance carried out, domestic or commercial, gutter cleaning, dust free sanding, no job too big or too small, quality but affordable, contact Ian 0874158238.
ALL SEASONS GARDENING SERVICES—
Gardens cleaned and cleared, tree felling, hedge cutting, stone, gravel, chippings. Steam cleaning roofs & driveways. Roof repairs. Local, professional, fully insured Tel Sean 087 349 5477.
GARDENING & PAINTING SERVICES—
Grass cutting, hedge trimming, pruning, cleaning, indoor/outdoor painting. Reliable, affordable in Louth area. Call Jonathan 083 126 0017.
PLANNING NOTICES
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Hollywood Developments, intend to apply for full planning permission for demolition of an existing two storey dwelling, and construction of a two storey replacement dwelling. Note all vehicular and pedestrian entrances, foul and surface water drainage, watermains and boundary treatments as per those granted under planning reference no. 23471 (Permission for alterations to existing dwelling house to include demolition of attached single storey garage/storage shed, revised site boundaries, modified vehicular entrance and construction of 3 no. new 4 bedroomed detached dwelling houses and all ancillary and associated site development works including site clearance works, new vehicular entrances off the public road, car parking spaces, hard and soft landscaping and boundary treatment works) and all associated site development works at Hillcrest House, Rock Road, Blackrock, Co. Louth. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard Dowdall - MRIAI - Architect—Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitects.ie.
EASY-GOING country lad, mid 50s with GSOH seeks light-hearted female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/ talks and to share the simple things in life. Tel—0868220403.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL— Roma Carlingford Ltd, intend to apply for Retention Permission for development at Roma Restaurant, Dundalk Street, Carlingford, Co. Louth A91 K443. The development will consist of—Retention of the part change of use of an existing restaurant to a take away facility and associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed—P. Herr & Associates, Block 4, Third Floor, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 KA9R. Tel. 042-9330019. E-mail info@pherr.ie. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I Joanne Clarke intend to apply for Retention Permission and Permission for development at 17 Park Villas, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 W8Y8. The development will consist of: Retention of the partially constructed outbuilding and associated site development works. Permission for 1. the completion of the partially constructed outbuilding to be used as a domestic garage, home office and gym, 2. extension and alterations to the existing dwelling house 3. and associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: P. Herr & Associates, Block 4, Third Floor, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 KA9R. Tel. 042-9330019. E-mail info@pherr.ie.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Suzanne & William Napier, intend to apply for Permission for development at Aghnaskeagh, Mountpleasant, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: Permission for a dwelling house, waste water treatment system and associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, from 9. 30 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: AMC Loss Assessors & Surveyors, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. 0879529699. E-mail aidan@amcla.ie.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Fine Living Limited, intend to apply for full permission for change of use of an existing sitting room, garage and workshop to a two storey dwelling house, elevational changes, provision of bin store, bicycle parking, surface water drainage, connection to the public foul water network and all associated site development works at 52a Saint Bridgids Terrace, Dundalk, County Louth, A91 FKW9. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard DowdallMRIAI - Architect - Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitects.ie.
SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader. BARGAIN OF THE WEEK—Oak frame Green Button Leather 3-piece suite for sale. Excellent condition. €350.00 for a quick sale. Contact 086 3597737.
UNWANTED plastic plant pots required. Drop them off to Brendan at McCormack’s Terrece, 2A St. Alphonsus Road, Dundalk.
ATTENTION LANDLORDS—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927. UKRAINIAN LADY looking for accommodation under the ARP program. Responsible, tidy Tel 089 4425414.
GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.
DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.
SEWING CLASSES FOR ADULTS—September 6th until October 25th at Muirhevnamor Community Centre. For more details call Blathnaid on 086 0312003.
Martin Sherlock, Blackwater Stud, Kells Co. Meath with his 1st Prize Simmental Heifer at The Tullamore Show last Sunday.
For a free no obligation quotation
Callsave: 1850 774455
Tel. 042 9333513
Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com
Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.
OPENING HOURS
Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2 After hours by appointment
it time to upgrade or replace your Velux Windows?
Martin retains Br Eccles Cup
LAST night was the final chance to qualify for the Finals night next Saturday night with the chance to win the Paddy Dixon Cup for overall competition winner.
On offer last night was The Brother Eccles Cup, a Cup that was won last year by Martin Carvill but prior to that it hadn’t been played since 1985 when Dermot Ralph completed a hat-trick of wins in the competition.
Prior to that the only other winners of the Cup were Pat Mc Hugh & Paddy Dixon.
So, like last year, the competition was an over 50’s competition.
A number of those playing on the night didn’t look as though they were old enough to play in the competition.
16 players played on the night in 4 x groups of 4, 2 from each then went through in a seeded draw.
The group draw threw up some interesting groups.
The ever youthful Raymie “Da” Carroll was drawn in a group with his great friend Tommy Joe McCartney and also drawn in that group were the two Aidans, Minto & Thompson.
Tommy Joe would go on to top the group ahead of Da.
Another group was made of reigning Competition Title Holder, Martin Carvill, along with Joe Davidson, Hughie Shields & Anthony Taaffe.
Martin won all 3 of his games to top the group and an upset was caused with Anthony winning two of his games to also qualify from d group.
Alan Rogan won all 3 of his group games and it went to a decider to see who else was qualifying from that group with Johnny Knoblock getting the better Of Brian McArdle.
And the last group also went to a decider with Graham Unwin seeing off Fintan Rogers to top the group with Fintan also qualifying.
In the 1/4 Finals, Martin Carvill beat Raymie Carroll in a game that went the distance.
Anthony Taaffe was still pulling off shock wins and beat Alan Rogan in the decider.
Graham Unwin beat Jonny Knobloch and Tommy Joe beat Fintan Rogers.
Graham would then go on to beat Anthony in the deciding game in the Semi Final, this was despite Anthony hitting numerous big scores and also a 96 checkout on 20, double 20 & then double 18.
The other semifinal was a battle of the big hitters with Tommy Joe & Martin facing
off before Martin would eventually qualify for d final.
In the Final, despite Grahams best efforts, Martin would go on win and in doing so he would be back to back winner of the Brother Eccles Cup.
Graham Unwin would qualify for finals night as best placed that had not already qualified for Finals Night.
Big thanks to all our sponsors for their continuing support: Mullens Takeaway Roden Place, Sarks Bar and Off-Licence, Davey Gonnelly
and Gonnelly Signs, Mulligan Coal & Oil, Cian Roddy & Smashers Burgers, Shang Garden Chinese Takeaway, Bellurgan Precision Engineering, Northend Bar & Ring A Drink, Fives Dundalk Cabs & Bar-One Racing.
Pictured are: Sheila Meehan, Martin and Patricia Carvill.
