Issuu

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Mother and Baby Home report published Page 4

Keith reaching heights for charity Page 8

John serves up second book of recipes Page 11

Thursday, 28th October, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 43 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Senator’s concern over online threats

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

By Paul Byrne

Louth Senator John McGahon has said he has received a number of letters and emails telling him to take his own life. John made his comments following the tragic death of UK conservative MP David Amess who was fatally stabbed at a constituency clinic. “Personally speaking, I’ve never received a death threat. I’ve never received a threat that I’ve had to report to the gardai,” said John. “I have received stuff like anonymous letters in the post or by email telling me I should go and kill myself. “I had one there recently that I put on Facebook at the time. I put out a note asking people what issues they are having in their local area and someone posted it back to my office to say that I should go and kill myself.” Continued on Page 2

Castletown Girls School pupils Sophie Dunne, Mollie Dixon and Isabella Fisher get into the spirit of Halloween ahead of their mid term break.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Concern over increase of online threats From Page 1 John added: “Unfortunately that type of language has become part and parcel of political discourse in this country; female colleagues in the Oireachtas get it ten times worse than their male colleagues. “Some of the language and abuse that is hurled at politicians is absolutely reprehensible and a lot of it is done from people hiding behind anonymity. “They wouldn’t have the courage to do it in their real name so they hide behind anonymous Twitter accounts or Facebook accounts and just hurl abuse with no repercussions.” John continued: “So, I think when you have that level of political discourse where it becomes acceptable and language like that towards politicians becomes acceptable. “It’s not a far step then for something far worse to happen when that type of hostility translates into the

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“Ireland is not removed from the UK. We have the same type of political system; we have the same level of constituency work and openness to constituents in Louth. TDs and Senators in this county are very available. It’s the same as the UK. The UK isn’t a far-away world or planet. “This has the same possibility as being able to happen in Ireland. Naturally enough, it would be the worst thing in the world if it happened here but it’s not a far-removed possibility and it’s something we have to be conscious about.” Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said there should be a garda review of the security for Irish politicians. John said: “I don’t think there are really any measures that we as TDs or Senators could put in place Senator John McGahon. because us being able to do our job real world and could end up with involves being able to meet with the somebody getting hurt and I would public every stage of the day whethhave real concerns. er it’s in the day or at night time.

“It involves us having to be accessible and if we can’t be accessible to the public to help them with their queries and issues, well then we can’t do our jobs. “But if you look at the UK where you’ve had two MPs murdered in the last five years in constituency clinics where a member of the public would have organised to come and meet them and subsequently came to murder them, it certainly makes you wonder should you consider your own security a little bit more or should you consider putting procedures in place. “But from my own perspective I won’t be doing that unfortunately because I have to have a level of accessibility to the people of Dundalk and to the people of Co Louth. “They are the people I represent and I have to be able to meet them and be able to represent them and to be able to listen to their queries and concerns.”

Louth Local Authorities issue Halloween advice

Louth County Council Fire & Rescue has issued an appeal in the run up to Halloween urging members of the public not to supply any waste material to persons who do not hold a valid waste collection permit. Louth Fire & Rescue Services incur substantial costs at Halloween in responding to bonfire related incidents, as well as cleaning up after bonfires that take place. The uncontrolled burning of waste, particularly in bonfires, is illegal under the Air Pollution Act, 1987, and The Waste Management Acts, 1996-2011. The burning of waste also releases toxic pollutants into the air which are known to be damaging to public health and the environment. “Bonfires are an illegal, dangerous and costly tradition,” explained Eamon Woulfe, Louth Chief Fire Officer. He added: “Bonfires are often built close to houses and other property presenting risks to personal safety and property. Halloween is one the busiest times of the year for the fire services and responding to bonfire call outs puts a strain on existing resources. I would like people to be aware of the fire safety hazards that arise from illegal bonfires, where the burning of highly combustible materials may lead to serious injuries or death.”

The Fire Service is advising members of public not to buy, use or supply fireworks. A firework includes all those devices which burn and explode to give a loud noise and a visual effect. Bangers are also defined as fireworks. It is illegal to possess any fireworks that may have been legally purchased outside Ireland and brought back into this country. Many of the fireworks that are offered for sale illegally here have not passed any quality control tests, are possibly defective and Gardaí will confiscate any fireworks found in the possession of people who in turn may be liable to prosecution. In addition there is a specific offence under law for throwing any lit firework

at a person or property. A person can be fined up to €10,000 for possession of unlicensed fireworks and for igniting, throwing, or possession of unlicensed fireworks with intent to sell or supply, the penalties can be up to €10,000 and five years in jail. Louth County Council Fire & Rescue Service urges members of the public to only attend fireworks displays that are authorised under licence and operated by professionals. According to Robert Page, Louth Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer: “Illegal fireworks may be manufactured without any safety standards and can cause serious damage to users, particularly children.

Throughout the country, every year children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life after using illegal fireworks. This can include extensive damage to eyes and hands, including burn related injuries and even in more serious cases, the amputation of fingers.” He added: “It is important that parents explain the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks to their children – to teenagers as well as to youngsters.” The Fire Service offers the following tips for a safe Halloween 2021: Report hoarded pallets, tyres and old furniture to Louth County Council 1890 202 303. Do not leave material lying around that may be taken

for use in a bonfire. Garage or garden shed items such as petrol, white spirits, diesel, aerosols, batteries, tins of paint, bottles and tyres are especially dangerous if set on fire. Parents, businesses and householders should not provide materials for bonfires. Be aware of the dangers of at bonfires Keep pets indoors on Halloween night Look for the CE mark and flame resistant labels on Halloween costumes and toys to ensure they meet EU safety standards. This may not prevent it from catching fire but will help to resist burning. Ensure all novelty lights carry the CE safety mark also. The mark should be visible on the product of packaging. If you can see it DON’T buy it. If the worst happens and you do come into contact with fire remember: STOP DROP and ROLL and allow the ground to suffocate the fire. Respect the work of the Emergency Services, Local Authorities’ Staff and the Gardaí. Contact the Fire and Rescue Service by calling 999 or 112 if you see a bonfire being lit close to buildings, trees, overhead cables, underground services or car parking areas.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Louth County Council publish report on Mother and Baby Home Report Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

A report from former social worker Denis Cahalane detailing the involvement of Louth County Council in sending women and children to Mother and Baby Homes and

County Homes around the country has been published. The report was compiled following motions from local councillors John Sheridan (FF) and Joanna Byrne (SF) and

was handed out to local representatives at Louth County Council’s monthly meeting earlier this month. Denis Cahalane’s findings revealed that although there are are many

passing references to County Louth in the main Mother and Baby Homes Report released last year, none of the institutions mentioned in the report were based in Co Louth. “Women from County Louth were placed in Mother and Baby homes throughout the country. It is impossible to state accurately how many of the mothers and children in homes were from County Louth. Information on admission practice is incomplete. Women would have been referred by clergy, medical and nursing personnel, public officials or family members. The report highlights two instances where the behaviour of County Louth officials was contrary to agreed policy. In Chapter 6, paragraph 76, there is a detailed account of where

The report was handed out to councillors at a recent council meeting.

confidentiality around a young woman who had contacted the CPRSI in 1966 was not observed. The County Secretary claimed that a failure to make enquiries about the family means would be at variance with the Council’s obligation to protect the financial interests of ratepayers. In another instance, an official contacted the mother of a pregnant woman repatriated from England. The mother was unaware of the pregnancy. In chapter 8, paragraph 38, there is an account of the refusal of the County Manager in 1955 to admit a woman and baby returning from England to any home other than the district hospital in Drogheda or

Dundalk. When asked for an explanation, he replied that he would reconsider his decision if he received a firm undertaking from the CPRSI to assume responsibility for the baby when it was six months old. Mr Cahalane also spoke about the two motions which had been put forward to Louth County Council in relation to the Mother and Baby Homes Report by Cllr John Sheridan and Cllr Joanna Byrne. “The first motion (Cllr Joanna Byrne) calls on the Minister for Children to publish without delay access to records legislation and to support fully Kathleen Funchion TD who has tabled the Civil

Registration (Amendment) Bill 2021 to ensure all adopted people are given unconditional access to their birth certificates. I support her·sentiments but I foresee numerous problems arising in regard to conflict of interest. “Many birth mothers were promised that information identifying them would never be passed on to their child, or to any other party. Some birth certificates contain inaccurate or falsified information. litigation is bound to be commenced around balancing the right of a mother to privacy against the right of her child to information. “Many pregnancies arose from incest, statutory rape, or other

exploitative situations. Many people requesting access to their birth certificates and other personal information will have to be treated with sensitivity and may require ongoing personal support to deal with disturbing personal information. “I also endorse the sentiments expressed in the second motion (Councillor John Sheridan). I see practical issues arising on advising people on routes to be pursued to obtain personal information. It is important that Louth County Council does not create an expectation which cannot be met. The County Archivist cannot provide access to information she does not possess. “Many people will come forward to seek personal help and redress. These issues will have to be addressed at a national level. The Tusla adoption tracing service is already overstretched. “There may be a role for communitybased counselling services to provide counselling packages, funded by Tusla or the local authority, to people grappling with personal issues arising from the Commission’s reports,” concluded Mr Cahalane.

letters to the editor

The Ramparts River Dear Editor, Everyday we pass the overgrown river. A stark reminder that nature must be nurtured, appreciated and maintained. Now, there is no space for the ducks, no enticement for the little birds or children, who would frequent there along their way daily. The habitat of some remarkable wildlife had been stripped away some years ago, by the cutting down of many trees for development, and the loss of such, was devastating enough for many. Now we realize that the foliage in the river and river banks is

so out of control, that nobody seems willing to do anything about this terrible shame. We remember walks from season to season, and the beauty that nature brings. The children busy feeding and watching the little creatures, wondering and learning about the beauty of it all. But now lies there, more than overgrown foliage, excessive silt, overgrown trees, plants and weeds. More than cast away litter and unused bins, there is a lack of human nature also. The kind that cares and the kind that takes responsibility for this appalling mess. Can someone please tell me why this has hap-

pened and continues to do so? Surely there are those with experience and manpower to do such work. Surely there are those who are accountable for this – to protect our environment, to encourage nature to flourish; to satisfy our senses and more importantly respect what nature grants us in return. A walk outdoors is a getaway for many, especially during this pressing epidemic. So for Covid’s sake, and the rest of us, can we PLEASE do something about this! Our rivers need us. In anticipation Yours, Jessica Coyle.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Dundalk Active Retirement Association Dundalk Active Retirement Association will begin again at last on Monday 1st November at 2pm in Carroll Mead Hall, Pearse Park. Prepandemic the group met every Monday in Carroll Mead Hall and now that restrictions have eased they are regrouping. New members are always welcome. Text 0866044503 for further information.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Dealgan House families disappointed Some of the families of people who died in Dealgan House Nursing Home in Dundalk during a Covid 19 outbreak last year have expressed their ‘deep disappointment’ with health minister Stephen Donnelly as their request for a public inquiry has gone unanswered after a year. On October 28 2020, a number of the families from the nursing home, where 22 people died from Covid 19 in April and May last year, met with Minister Donnelly and Minister of State Mary Butler,

along with officials from the Department of Health. At the online meeting, the ministers heard heart-breaking stories of how families were left struggling for answers after their loved ones died during the devastating Covid 19 outbreak. The families pleaded with the ministers to green-light a public inquiry into how so many people died in the nursing home, which was the only one in the State where a hospital group took over operational control.

Minister Donnelly said he would consider their testimony and would go back to the families ‘in a matter of weeks’. However, 12 months later, the Dealgan families have not received a substantive response to their request, despite numerous follow-up letters to the ministers, who have replied that the matter is still under consideration. In a statement, the Dealgan families said: ‘We went to the meeting with Ministers Donnelly and Butler in good faith. We told

them what had happened to our loved ones and the devastating impact that it had on us, and on the wider community. ‘We laid out the case for a public inquiry to the ministers, highlighted all the questions that have arisen because of what we have found out through Freedom of Informa-

tion and argued that there is a huge need for a public inquiry because lessons need to be learned for the future. ‘Minister Donnelly said he would come back to us with an answer in a matter of weeks, but a year later, there still is no answer. In the meantime, we have met with every

conceivable official including HSE CEO Paul Reid, who was not able to directly answer our questions. ‘The lack of response from Minister Donnelly is deeply disappointing to us and makes us wonder whether the government is serious about learning lessons from this pandemic’. Ruairi O Murchu, TD.

Fighting Fit raise money for Fintan Goss Scholarship Fighting Fit Dundalk have teamed up with Dundalk Counselling Centre to raise €1500 for the ‘Fintan Goss Scholarship Fund’. The scholarship supports local therapists or aspiring play therapists to gain an award in Play Therapy. Founded by Stephen Mulligan in 2014, they have raised over €50,000 for clubs and charities to date through various events and fundraisers. In the past month, 39 participants came together to make a positive change to their lifestyle through the Kickstarter Challenge - a team event that offered members the opportunity to get healthy, raise money and direct those funds to a very important cause. A combined weight loss total of over 130kg was achieved by all participants. The mental health and wellbeing of our

Fighting Fit Fundraiser Chris Mulligan on the left and Brandon Mulligan on the right. In the background is Pamela Goss with her two children - Henry Goss and Laragh Goss. On the right in the background is Liz McGuckin. Youth has undoubtedly taken a hit during the pandemic, with disruption to their normal routines, cancellation of extra-curricular activities and sports, aswell as increased isolation. The Fintan Goss Scholarship fund will enable therapists to equip themselves with extra tools which can be used to help children

who are really struggling. A professionally trained Play Therapist works to help a child to gain insight and understanding of their experiences, increasing emotional resilience and developing coping strategies while decreasing problematic behaviours and internalized conflicts. (www.bapt. info)

The Fintan Goss Scholarship is named in memory of Ravensdale man Fintan Goss who tragically died during Storm Ophelia in 2017 when a tree fell on his car. The 33 year old was survived by his wife and two children. Dundalk Counselling Centre: www. dundalkcounsellingcentre.ie.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Keith reaching new heights for charity By Tamara O’Connell

DUNDALK man Keith Duffy is preparing to abseil down the Smithfield Tower of Terror on Friday, October 29. The 45-year-old from the Carrick Road is representing Leinster for the DNG Group in the fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities. “I was asked to help out for a charity event and thought I’d be holding a bucket collecting money somewhere,” said Keith. “Fifteen minutes later I get an email saying I’m going to do a 190 foot drop down Smithfield Tower. “I’ve no experience abseiling but when I found out it was for Ronald McDonald House Charities, I decided to go for it.” Keith added: “When my own son, Dylan,

Keith Duffy with his son Dylan. was born, he was born with a condition and had to attend Temple Street Hospital for the guts of a year. “So, anything like that really resonates

with me. They are going to use the funds raised to build a hotel for parents who have children attending Crumlin Hospital.” Keith continued: “I

went to the Crowne Plaza Hotel yesterday to get a sense of the height. I’ve done a bit of You Tubing - I won’t lie - and you reverse out. “It will be fine. There are 100 people doing it from an array of companies so there will be a nice bit of friendly competition involved too. “Our goal is to raise €10,000 and we’ve raised 80 per cent of our target so far. I’m looking forward to doing the abseil and hoping we will reach the €10,000 target. It’s for a very good cause.” Keith will have to climb 244 winding steps in around ten to 12 minutes before he takes the plunge down Smithfield Tower, which should take an estimated 15 minutes.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

O’Murchú welcomes funding for addiction services

The HSE is to make available funding for addiction support services in Louth in a move that has been welcomed by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú. In a letter to community-based organisations, the HSE said that additional funding would be made available for services in Louth and Meath in the coming weeks. There is €70,000 a year for a family support co-ordinator, while a further €55,000 is being made available for a family support worker. The news is particularly welcome for the Dundalk-based Family Addiction Support Network (FASN) which provides vital support for families affected by substance misuse. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘I welcome the news this week that the HSE is making

Ruairi Ó Murchú, TD. this funding available and it is hoped that it will help bridge the problems that have been experienced in recent times by FASN. ‘It is a step in the

right direction. ‘I have spoken to HSE management about the announcement and have been assured that the funding will be available on an annual ba-

sis for at least three years, subject to review. ‘The community services that this funding aims to help are waiting to see the criteria and the application process, but it is hoped everything will be in place before the end of this year. ‘I have spoken to FASN in Dundalk and they are hopeful that if they can secure this funding, it will ensure the continuation of the hugely important services they provide. ‘In addition, the matter of funding for family-based addiction support services was raised by my colleague, Cllr. Kevin Meenan, at the North East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Forum recently and the HSE are in no doubt about the services needed to support families who have a loved one battling addiction’.

John highlights experiences of J a wheelchair user to students Coláiste Rís Transition Year students met with local Disability Awareness Campaigner and past pupil of CBS, John Morgan and Independent Councillor Maeve Yore this week. The Students heard first-hand about their experiences of being a wheelchair user and a parent and the challenges they face in areas like accessing public transport, services, amenities and employment. John has been working in conjunction with Maeve for many years in highlighting the barriers to accessibility that people with a disability face on a daily basis. Maeve explains “Our intention - Pre-Covid - was to contact all the secondary school Transition Year CoOrdinators in Dundalk to see if they would be interested in Disability Awareness Talks and on our recent Walkabout on Make Way Day we met Teacher David Holland with Coláiste Rís stu-

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John Morgan ‘Jamie’ and Maeve Yore at Colaiste Ris. dents who kindly linked us up with Coláiste Rís TY Co-Ordinator Irene Lawless who has been instrumental in the success of our inaugural talks offering invaluable advice and input” John said “As a past pupil of both CBS Primary and Secondary Schools I am delighted that Irene and Coláiste Rís has lead the way in Dundalk with this awareness campaign. Jamie - my assistance dog and best friend - has once again been a great hit with staff and students alike. These talks aim to raise awareness of the challenges faced daily by people with disabilities, the visually impaired, our senior

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citizens and those with mobility issues. For example the students were unaware that to travel by bus or trainT you have to pre-book 48hours in ad-a vance and then sit where people putd fi their luggage” Following on from the Talks thew Transition Year students will do anP audit of wheelchair accessibility inc Dundalk, maybe have a ‘wheelabout’t in a wheelchair in school or street andg make a presentation on their findings.p John and Maeve look forward to lias-I ing with other schools and hope theyB will be interested in these Talks in thet p coming months” j j

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Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

John serves up a second helping of wonderful recipes Point Road man John Moore is serving up a second helping of wonderful recipes with the release of his second book this year. The Suil na Mara native released his debut book ‘Home Cooking from Lavender Cottage’ late last year as he put the extratime he had during lockdown to very good use. The book contained nineteen delicious recipes and included pictures taken by local photographer Andrew

Browne. Following the success of the book, John decided to share some more of his favourite recipes with all proceeds from his new book going to the Redemptorist church who are currently renovating the old bell tower in the grounds. According to John he was delighted with the support he received from his debut book and is hoping that his second book will be just as well received.

“I love cooking and that love was passed down to me by my mother Geraldine who is a very good cook. When I released my first book I got great support from people around town including everybody down in RehabCare where I have been a member for twenty years. “My new book is called ‘From Greenhouse to table’ and includes some of my favourite recipes that I like to make. My favourite recipe

Lower payouts must result in lower insurance premiums The news that insurance payouts have reduced by 40% in the last five months has been welcomed by Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick, who campaigned strongly for the introduction of new guidelines to reduce payouts. The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) reported that the average injuries payout reduced from just under €24,000 to just over €14,000. As a result of the Criminal Justice (Perjury and Related Offences) Act 2021 which was brought forward by the Deputy and the Regional Group, Insurance scammers now face up to 10 years in jail and a €100,000 fine after a new law enacted in July 2021 to crack down on ‘compo culture’. In March of this year ,The Regional Group introduced its Private Members Bill - the Civil Liability and Courts (Amendment) Bill 2021 – to the Dail. The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee gave an undertaken to address the issues and introduce a bill of her own to which the group agreed. However, the group will reintroduce its PMB if the Minister does not fulfil her commitment.

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

Peter Fitzpatrick commented “It is very encouraging that the personal injuries guidelines appear to be resulting in a reduction in payouts. Reform in the area was badly needed and something that the Regional Independent Group strongly supported.” Many hope that a reduction in payouts for personal injuries will also result in lower legal costs and most importantly, lower insurance premiums across the board. Deputy Fitzpatrick went on to highlight the difficulties faced by

different sectors: “The consequences of high insurance premiums can be seen all over the country. Childcare providers have been warning about this for years. Providers were leaving the market, premiums were skyrocketing and subsequently childcare providers were closing or having to raise their fees so high that many parents were unable to afford their services. Similarly, when it comes to outdoor activity centres, many are also finding it difficult to get insurance cover. We also regularly hear of cases where young drivers are being priced off the road, just at a time when they need their own transport to get to and from college or when they are looking to start work. In other words, soaring insurance premiums had a negative affect right across different aspects of society.” Deputy Fitzpatrick concluded “We are now in a position where we can see significant progress in the area, but the progress on reductions in claims will only have the desired effect if we see a significant reduction in insurance premiums.”

St Patrick’s Soup Kitchen SAINT Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen is open Monday to Saturday 7pm to 8pm and Sunday 5pm to 6pm. Food parcels are distributed on Friday morning between 10:30 and 11:30. The soup kitchen is situ-

ated in the grounds of St Patrick’s Church car park. We urgently need more volunteers, if you think you could spare one evening per week please contact Paul at 0868872490 to arrange Garda

vetting forms before taking up volunteer work. If you would like to donate any non perishable food items they can be left at the parochial house or at the soup kitchen between 7pm and 8pm.

in the book is probably a salmon dish called ‘Salmon in Cucumber Sauce’ which is a quick and easy recipe to follow. When I did the first book it was mainly to try and lift the mood and spirits of people around me but I really enjoyed doing it and I thought to myself why not do another one. I know that the Redemptorist Church are busy renovating the old bell tower so I decided to give them all profits from the book to go to-

wards that project. There are 24 recipes in the new book and it costs just €5. “Hopefully people enjoy the book and I can help raise a few euro for the church. I will take a wee break now but I am already thinking up recipes that could maybe go in a third book somewhere down the line,” stated John. John’s cookbook ‘From Greenhouse to Table’ is available to buy in the Redemptorist church for just €5. John Moore.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Family Notices novena

novena

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

special services

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber. ie. ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to over 50,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888. SHOP TO RENT on Castletown Rd. Would suit phone shop, coffee & groceries, tattooist etc. Tel. 086 0566194.

FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-6751229. Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501. BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529. ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827. Carpentry & Joinery—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110. 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. Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel 085-8309878. Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com. Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508. GARDEN SERVICES—Lawn & hedge cutting in and around Dundalk. Keen prices. Tel. 087 147 7067. Secure your Wheelie Bin with Mr. Binlockin, locks for Domestic & Industrial Bins. Stops others filling your bin, prevents interference from animals, secures your personnel recyclable documents, gets you prepared for and saves you money on pay by weight enquires Tel 042 9377611. WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478. CHIMNEY CLEANER—Brush and vacuum. The original clean sweep. Contact Billy on 087 644 8230. J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775. WEDDING CAKES—Cakes for all occasions: Christmas, Anniversaries, Christenings, Birthdays, Confirmations/ Communions, etc. All made by Chef, reasonable prices Tel 087 3228790. Boarding for Cats & Dogs, Darver/ Knockbridge/ Blackrock areas. Based in Darver. Taking bookings now. Contact Liz 085-149-4858. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand. Ph 042 932 0888.

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Family Notices Contact Noeleen

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Broadband Delay has Serious Implications for Rural Ireland—Watters

Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has hit out at the latest delays in the National Broadband Plan (NBP) accusing the government of ‘not caring about rural communities’. Cllr Watters whose constituency is mostly rural said “it was confirmed by government officials and National Broadband that just 17,000 premises have been completed this year to date. Their actual target was 115,000 so they are just under 100,000 short. That just isn’t good enough. “They had the cheek to revise their target downwards to 60,000, half of their initial target, and they are nowhere near even reaching that. My faith in Broadband Ireland rolling out this national plan dwindles every time they make an announcement. “You know of course that rural Ireland will be the last to get it because it is just never a priority. People who live in rural Ireland, my neighbours Cllr Antoin Watters. in the Cooley Peninsula, are treated like second class citi- can be assured that if there zens by the government. You was a shortage of broadband

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or anything else in Dublin the government wouldn’t be long getting it sorted.” Cllr Watters said “These delays have serious implications for rural communities. I know the government doesn’t realise it but there are actual people living in rural areas that have the same needs and requirements of those who live in Dublin and urban areas. There are businesses trying to operate and young people learning from home, all of whom need reliable broadband for their day to day lives. Broadband in the Cooley Peninsula can be sporadic and they are the lucky ones, some have no broadband at all.” Cllr Watters said he was disappointed that “yet again we are hearing that rural families and rural workers will be left waiting for broadband. Despite it being a commitment in the Programme for Government, it would seem that rural communities are once again at the bottom of the list of government priorities.”

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. FOR SALE—(separately or together); 2 seat sofa & 2 fireside chairs. Grey fabric. Tel. 042 935 2962 (between 2-7pm). SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

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Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Jake Carter looking forward Jinx looking forward to returning to stage to Spirit Store show THE singer Jake Carter is gearing up to return to the stage with a performance at the TLT in Drogheda on Friday, October 29. Winner of series 2 of the Irish television dance competition Dancing with the Stars, Jake is also the younger brother of country music singer Nathan Carter. Speaking about his relationship with his brother Nathan, Jake said: “It’s all good. We’re very close.” The 23-year-old from Liverpool currently splits his time between Fermanagh and Dublin. He first performed on the Late Late Show with Ryan Tubridy in 2017. He performed his first single ‘Trouble’ which received a lot of air play on Irish country music radio stations and reached number one on the Irish Country Music iTunes chart. Shortly afterwards,

Jake Carter. Jake released an EP titled Three Things. Apart from singing and dancing, Jake has also tried his hand at acting. In December 2017, Jake appeared as the ti-

tle character Aladdin in the Belfast SSE Arena pantomime production of Aladdin. Also in December 2017, Jake was confirmed as one of the 11

celebrities taking part in the second series of the Irish version of Dancing with the Stars. Jake was paired with Irish professional dancer, Karen Byrne for the series. They won the competition on 25 March 2018 and are currently in a relationship. “I spent lockdown writing songs with my brother and a couple of them might appear on Nathan’s new album,” said Jake. “My girlfriend and I got a puppy too, a Cavapoo called Lenny. We’ve been busy training him. He’s very good now.” He released a new single called ‘Sink or Swim’ in mid-July. “It got a great reaction and a video was released with it too. I’m really looking forward to playing at TLT’s brand new venue. It will be my first show since lockdown started,” he said.

Local acoustic guitar playing punk legend Jinx Lennon is back in the award winning Spirit Store on Saturday, November 6th and you can get your tickets at www. spiritstore.ie. The smell of the sweat, beer and audience normality that has been missing from your zoom meetings since march 2020 is coming back again with a vengeance this autumn and winter 2021. Recently seen performing ‘’Pushin’ the patients round’’ from the ‘’Liferafts For Latchicos’’ album on Tommy Tiernan’s RTE show, Jinx’s new show is called “The Mouth, the wire, the wood, and the good right foot” just to set out the stalls properly. A whole bunch of Jinx classics will be performed alongside music from the two albums he released during the Covid crisis “Border schizo fffolk songs for the fuc**d “ and “Liferafts for latchicos” and like it says on the poster its all about

Jinx Lennon playing the 6 string guitar and the bass drum. Jinx will be playing support for local artists Dave Keenan in Dublin and Mary Wallopers in Cork in December and will release the next album in spring 2022 which is like a collision course between punk attitude and open tuned folk guitar aptly named “Walk lightly when the

jug is full “ and it was engineered/produced by Chris Barry in Ailfionn Studios Drumcondra between December last year and May this year. Chris also plays bass on the record. Lots of upcoming dates are on the menu including the American Bar Belfast on November 20th and Thomas House Dublin in the new year.. The

song “Forgive the c*nts “ from ‘’Know Your Station Gouger Nation!!!’’ was featured in the recent movie “Bicycle Thieves Pumped Up“ made by filmaker/comedian Conor O’Toole which is about a pizza delivery girl who gets her bike stolen. Sara Jane Hopkins a.k.a. Baby Nits is special guest for the Spirit Store show. She is one of the more up and coming D.I.Y local musicians in Dundalk and she played a stormer in this years Arcadian Fields festival. Jinx and Baby Nits collaboration “Fred Perry Far Right” will feature in an upcoming compilation album series of Irish underground musicians music “Litany of failures” volume 4. So get your tickets for Saturday, November 6th and come feel the rawness with the local twist .If you havn’t dipped your toes back into the live music scene yet so far then this is the show to go to now. Tickets available now.

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

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Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Celebrations planned for 40th anniversary of camogie All-Ireland win By Ben Tumulty

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In a success story often overlooked by GAA supporters in Louth, the Wee County’s astonishing camogie victory in the 1982 All-Ireland Championships saw the culmination of years of grit, determination and hard work. Now, with the fortieth anniversary of the match just around the corner, celebrations are underway to mark the historic achievement four decades on. The team, made up of the county’s best camogie players from three separate clubs, were guided by manager Peter Hoey under the watchful eye of coach Madge Lennon. After storming through a number of exciting matches throughout the late seventies, as the eighties dawned the gruelling Lenister League appeared on the horizon. The team worked together to defeat Wicklow, Laois and Kildare amongst others – however, it appeared that a spanner had been thrown in the works when after the semi-final, objections were raised by Galway over the awarding of their match to Louth. They also objected to the refereeing of the match. In a closely-contested

match with County Cork, the tight-knit team worked together in order to claim the All-Ireland title and cement Louth’s place in camogie history. However, before the final, their previous opponents Galway argued over the size of the goalpost and brought up a number of objections with camogie officials. During a crunch meeting in Barry’s Hotel, County Dublin, Louth manager Peter Hoey and player Mary Connor anxiously awaited the verdict, with his team’s success hanging in the balance. Relieved to hear that Galway were simply clutching at straws, the objection was eventually overruled, and Louth were on their way to Croke Park. Coach Madge Lennon’s three daughters, Colette, Susan and Teresa, were players – and their mother was a real character, as former player Ann Harrington, originally from Clare, remembers: ‘Not only was Madge a coach, but she would also stand in if we were short a goalkeeper too! Even for her age she was always there to help out. We were also training a lot with Peter Hoey, especially towards the semi-final with Galway, but it was with Cork

Above: The Kilkerley camogie team from 1977. Many of whom played with Louth. Right: Goal for Louth!

that we were most afraid,’ she says. Fellow teammate Geraldine Vallely agrees. ‘Peter trained us very hard and rightly so – he even had us jumping across barrels, hail, rain or snow! The whole team were so, so strong. At the very start we’d often be annihilated! But our supporters were so loyal. Back then we just had senior and junior teams, and under 18’s – that was it. But when we got to Croke Park, it was unreal – we had travelled the country far and wide for games and in 1982 it

had all paid off. It was amazing.’ ‘Even the neutral spectators cheered us on,’ says Mary Connor. ‘Once the match had ended, we left the pitch, and as we went through the tunnel we could see that the Cork fans and players were in

tears,’ she added. ‘They were in shock. Nobody expected it.’ Celebrations are planned to mark Louth’s camogie achievements early next year. If you are interested, you can email countylouthcamogie@gmail.com for more information.

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Fighters from Hybrid Martial Arts who competed in the Wako Hungarian Kickboxing World Cup in Budapest Hungary

Fighters from Hybrid Martial Arts who competed in the Wako Hungarian Kickboxing World Cup Budapest Hungary in September. This was a huge event with over 2000 competitors from 45 countries. Fighters competed in semi contact, light contact and kick light divisions over three days. Everyone did their club and town proud with two fighters making the podium, Lisa McCabe claiming bronze in semi contact and Naman Shrivastava claiming gold in his light contact and a bronze in team event. An exceptional display of teamwork and support was shown between all students over the weekend for which we are extremely proud.

Two of these guys will also fight for their country for the first time in the Wako older cadet and junior European championships in Montenegro from 5th - 14th of November. Niall Gregory (63kg older cadet boys) and Naman Shrivastava (57kg older cadet boys) will fight in both semi contact and light contact divisions. The lads have trained relentlessly over the past year, through every means necessary from zoom to outdoors, to more recent squad sessions with the national team adapting to overcome every challenge. We have no doubt they will leave it all on the mats and are extremely proud of their journey so far. Hybrid Martial Arts is based

in Bridge street Dundalk. Adaptive to elite squad, person centred and holistic training. Newcomers always welcome.

Naman Shrivastava (57kg older cadet boys).

1—The Krone is the official currency of which European country? 2—Which American multi-million selling musical artist recently legally changed their name to Ye? 3—Excluding penalties, how many goals did the Republic of Ireland men’s senior soccer team score at the 1990 World Cup in Italy? 4—Which european island is about 280km (174 miles) at its widest and about 486km (302 miles) at its longest? 5—What is the name of the cowboy in Toy Story? 6—Why is the name Patsy ‘Tootsie’ McKeown well known around Dundalk? 7—The word ‘Séimhiú’ is generally associated with which letter in the

Irish language? 8—Bratislava is the capital of which European country? 9—What is cynophobia? 10—Which Central American country has a name which translates to English as “The Saviour”? The Stinker—What was the name of the pub in Irish TV programme Glenroe?

—this week’s answers—

Niall Gregory (63kg older cadet boys).

1—Denmark, 2—Kanye West, 3—2. Kevin Sheedy (v England) and Niall Quinn (v Holland), 4—Ireland, 5—Woody, 6—He was one of Dundalk FC’s finest ever players winning nine trophies with the club including two leagues in the 1960’s, 7—H, 8—Slovakia, 9—Fear of dogs, 10—El Salvador. The Stinker: Molly Malone.

ALL A REAS COVER ED

Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021

Halloween in Realt na Mara

Féilim Ryan, Amelia Luchessi O’Carroll, Caela Foley and Grace Geroc.

Oran McCabe Allen, Setanta O’Connor, Sean Levins, Luca Havlat, Sarah Connors and Sami Momin.

Evelyna Ruskule, Tom Clarke, Edie O’Shaughnessy and Sam Dullaghan.

What you need to know about car tyres for safe winter driving—AA Ireland Four small patches of rubber each about the size of your hand are the only parts of the car in touch with the road. So as we approach winter, having the right tyres in good condition and correctly inflated is very important for your safety. Regular checks and maintenance help to make tyres last longer, and keep you on the right side of the law. Original fit car tyres Car and tyre manufacturers work closely together to select the make, size and tread pattern that best suits a new car taking account of many factors including styling, handling and noise. You must stick to the same size and type of tyre – and ideally the same brand and tread pattern – when renewing tyres. Changing brand or pattern could mean more tyre noise and affect handling. New tyres to the front or rear? Check the handbook first as some give vehicle specific advice. Generally it’s good practice to fit the best/newest tyres on the rear – in wet conditions, this favours understeer rather than oversteer. So, if you have the front tyres renewed it’s best to have the rear ones moved to the front and the new tyres fitted to the rear. Tyres with deep tread are less likely to puncture and it’s more difficult to control a car with a damaged rear tyre. Basic legal requirements Tyres must be compatible with others on the car and generally in good physical

condition and must be correctly inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure Tread depth must be above the legal minimum which for passenger cars is 1.6mm throughout a continuous band in the centre 3/4 of the tread and around the entire circumference. The AA recommends replacing your tyre when the tread depth falls below 3mm. An easy way to check to this is to put a one euro coin into the grooves, and make sure the gold at the bottom is fully covered. You don’t have to carry a spare and it doesn’t have to meet the legal requirements while it’s stowed away. It may how-

ever affect breakdown cover if you don’t carry a serviceable spare Spare wheels and new cars If you are buying a new car don’t assume that there will be a full-size spare wheel in the boot. It is increasingly common for car manufacturers to provide a non-standard or ‘skinny’ spare or even simply an emergency tyre sealant and compressor/inflator pack. If carrying a full-size spare is important to you then raise it with the dealer; some offer a standard spare wheel as a cost option if the design of the boot floor can accommodate one. —By AA Press Office.

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Dundalk Leader 28th October 2021