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DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Local Sinn Fein representatives travel to Garvaghy Road amid protests Page 4

Gerry receives Scouting Ireland’s highest honour

St Kevin’s Mothers & Others are New York bound

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Wednesday, 30th September, 2026. Vol. 19, Issue 39 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888 | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Calls for prison sentences after Glyde River fish kill By Lauren Ross LOUTH councillors have called for tougher penalties following a pollution incident estimated to have killed more than 20,000 fish in the Glyde, with Green Party Cllr Marianne Butler urging that prison sentences be considered to help prevent further incidents. The call came at Louth County Council’s September meeting, where Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) reported signs of recovery but confirmed there were no plans to restock the river. Dr Ronan Matson, who led the presentation, said adult salmon had been seen near Castlebellingham and were expected to help rebuild stocks. Having heard the presenta-

tion, Cllr Butler said the consequences of major fish kills should extend beyond a financial penalty. “I think we do need to move beyond financial penalties. But I know that’s a matter for government. I think when big fish kills happen, it’s ecocide, and it should be more than just a financial penalty,” she said. “Whether it be a person or a company, they need to be held accountable. And jail time and custodial sentences need to be considered to stop it happening again.” Cllr Maeve Yore also wanted to know “what laws are we currently using to hold the environmental terrorists to account?” Dundalk Pool League players, Harvey Lavelle, Alan Thompson, Pat Brady, Paddy Clarke and Manny Byrne claimed the Ultimate Pool Over-50s World Title in Malta. Continued on Page 2

Top of the World!

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Calls for prison sentences after Glyde River fish kill

From Page 1 IFI acknowledged staff frustration over low fines and said fisheries legislation was being reviewed following a ministerial commitment to update it. IFI said it was preparing a file for potential prosecution over the June incident. The agency identified the source as an agricultural discharge, which was stopped. The damage extended across roughly 25km, from Aclint

Bridge in Co Monaghan to Lynns Weir, Castlebellingham. Salmon, brown trout, eels, pike, minnows and other coarse fish were among the losses with Dr Matson saying deaths had affected almost every fish species in the system. Fisheries staff arrived within 30 minutes of being notified, he told councillors, taking samples, assessing the damage and beginning the removal of dead fish.

ABOVE—Members of the Ardee and Glyde Fishing Development Association enjoy their end of season barbeque. RIGHT—Vincent Byrne and Gordon Moore fishing on the Glyde River. Sinn Fein Cllr Pearse McGeough described what he had witnessed when he visited the scene the following day. “I was on scene the day after the killing, and I want to commend the Inland Fisheries boys and EPA, and also the Dee Glyde Fishermen’s Association, because they had a shocking job to do, they had to take all the dead fish out of the river for days after,” he told the meeting. “It was an absolute disaster, an ecological environmental disaster. “I live in Castlebellingham and the river is a source of pride for me. Others in the area who like to visit it, and those who go fishing, and it was devastating.” Cllr McGeough noted the damage had also affected young people who went fishing and the fishermen who knew and used the river. In a separate interview, Anthony Reynolds, of the Dee and Glyde Fishing Development Association, praised the speed of IFI’s response and the help given by anglers in tracing the pollution upstream saying the quick action of IFI and anglers was “critical.” He described anglers checking successive bridges until they reached a point above the pollution, helping

narrow down where it had entered the river. At the meeting, Cllr Butler urged members of the public to report concerns on IFI’s confidential phone line, saying the message needed to be given to the public that dead fish should be reported while the IFI official explained why those reports needed to come quickly. “With a fish kill, you have to be out there as pollution is happening to have a chance for prosecution,” the meeting heard. Stopping the discharge allowed recovery to begin, while subsequent rainfall helped flush remaining pollution from the water, according to an IFI. Dr Matson told councillors, “Fortunately, rain was forecast a couple of days after the fish kill, which would have helped to flush out that pollution and enable recovery to commence quickly. In the event of a fish kill, recovery does commence rapidly as long as the source of pollution has been stopped. And we were confident at that point that it was stopped.” He reported groups of adult salmon since the incident near Castlebellingham, which were expected to breed and help rebuild stocks. Other fish could

gradually repopulate the affected stretch from tributaries and unaffected parts of the river. Anthony has seen salmon since the incident too, but said that did not mean the trout population had recovered. He has fished the Glyde for around 60 years and described much less activity where trout could previously be seen breaking the surface. “You definitely see less trout or anything like that jumping or moving. Right now, salmon is a different story because salmon come into the river.” He had also noticed fewer kingfishers on the river since the June incident and was concerned about what the loss of young salmon would mean for stocks in future years. He had hoped fish could be introduced to help the river recover. At the meeting, Cllr McGeough also asked if the river could be restocked and what help the council could provide saying “we get one chance with the environment and we don’t want to abuse it.” IFI said there were no plans for restocking, explaining that introducing fish from elsewhere could dilute the genetic make-up of fish already adapted to the Glyde. Its

approach was to allow surviving fish to breed and repopulate the affected areas. The agency is also working to improve the habitat spawning grounds with Dr Matson thanking the council for supplying gravel for that work. He also told councillors IFI was carrying out fencing and the provision of solar drinkers to exclude cattle from rivers to prevent poaching and siltation, which should have “positive knock-on effects.” Cllr McGeough raised anglers’ concerns about seals during the council meeting, with Anthony having described seals “as a major problem” for the fisheries. IFI explained seals were among several predators that eat fish and were themselves protected, with their management falling to the National Parks and Wildlife Service. For fishermen, Anthony said the loss of fish had also changed how they used the river. With fewer anglers along the banks, paths they once maintained were becoming difficult to walk. He described the years spent looking after access and helping improve spawning grounds, and the loss of an amenity anglers

had helped care for. For him, the pleasure had also been in meeting people and stopping for a chat, whether or not he caught anything. “It’s the camaraderie.

You might never catch a fish, but it’s about having that amenity, meeting people along the river and the social aspect of it, and now we have lost that.”

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Louth Sinn Fein TDs and Councillors travel to Garvaghy Road to stop Orange parade

LOUTH Sinn Féin elected representatives, TDs Ruairí Ó Murchú and Joanna Byrne, along with county councillors Sionainn McCann, Kevin Meenan, Fiona Mhic Conchoille and Pearse McGeough were among hundreds of people who joined the residents of the Garvaghy Sinn Fein councillors Kevin Meenan and Sionainn McCann with Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú at the Garvaghy Road, Portadown. Road in Portadown at the weekend to stop an Orange Order parade from going through the nationalist area of the town. The contested route for the Orange Order parade, being held for the first time in 28 years after lastditch court battles on Saturday night failed, focused the spotlight on the County Armagh town. Speaking from the Garvaghy Road on Sunday night, Deputy Ó Murchú said he was ‘immensely proud’ of Louth Sinn Féin members who travelled in numbers to Portadown to join with party colleagues and other political parties and groupings, to stop the Orange Order parade from marching. He said that he had arrived to Portadown around 330pm on Saturday and visited the Drumcree Community Centre, which was hosting a family fun day before it became the centre of the community resistance to the Orange Order parade. He said that people were getting updates all evening and into the night about the court cases and appeals that had been filed and were under consideration by the courts and at around 11pm, people were directed to go onto the Garvaghy Road. Deputy Ó Murchú said: “From 11pm onwards on Saturday there was a feeling that the march would

Active Retirement

IN BRIEF

Monday 5th October: Homeopathy with Annie; Monday 12th October: Bingo; Monday 19th October: Tai Chi with Alan; Monday 26th October: Bank Holiday Monday 2nd November: Yoga with Triona. Dundalk Active Retirement starts at 2:30pm sharp in Carroll Mead Hall in Pearse Park. —————

Festival In A Van

be given the go-ahead to take place. So, in our hundreds, we made our way onto the road and stayed there, all through the night, in the teeming rain that started lasted from dawn to midday. “It was important to me and to all those who were there that a strong presence remained on the road throughout Sunday. It was our view that once midnight on Sunday passed, the permission granted to the Orange Order by the Parades Commission would lapse and it would then become an illegal march that the police would have to stop. “I was honoured to stand with the brilliant people of the Garvaghy Road and with other representatives from political parties and organisations whose only goal was to stop the Orangemen marching on the road. “The people of this area were traumatised by what happened 28 years ago, and remember the 21 people who were killed because of the Orange parade in the late 1990s. What happened this weekend retraumatised them again and the only thing we could do was to help them in their resistance. “And the people here should never have been put in this position. The Secretary of State Chris Byrant and the British Prime Minister Andy Burnham were spectators this weekend, offering hand-wringing and nothing else. The Irish government need to engage with the British government in the wake of what has happened this weekend. “It is disgraceful that a march down the Garvaghy Road is the only thing left that Unionism has left to offer their community”.

Festival in a Van is a mobile arts organisation bringing high-quality live performance and participatory arts experiences directly into communities across Ireland. What began as an innovative response to the Covid-19 pandemic has grown into a dynamic, nationally touring programme that reaches audiences in places where access to the arts can be limited — from care settings and health contexts to schools, public spaces and community environments.

Sports Memorabilia

Dundalk’s first ever Football & Sports memorabilia Fair will take place in the Lillywhite Lounge in Oriel Park on Sunday, October 4th from 11pm to 3pm. Dundalk FC celebrated 100 years of League of Ireland Status this season and issued a hugely popular 120 Page programme to commemorate the occasion against Galway Utd on August 21st. The Programme sold out immediately. There is a Programme Fair in Belfast and one in Dublin each year. Organisers thought it would be a good idea to run a provincial one in Dundalk, home of one of Ireland’s most successful clubs and where there are quite a few collectors active in the year of Dundalk’s centenary. The response has been amazing and all Tables (Stalls) have been taken up. There will be 11 Stall Holders from all around the coun-

try selling Football Programmes, GAA Memorabilia, Panini Sticker Books, Football Badges, Football Tickets, Football Shirts, Autographed items and much more.. Refreshments will be available also. All are welcome. —————

Women’s Shed

October 5th: Rosemary O’Rafferty, Holistic Therapist. “Holistic energy management tips and meditation”. October 12th: Tomas Mulholland, Opthalmic Director, Specsavers, Dundalk. “Your guide to eye health”. October 19th: Halloween Party. All events take place from 10am11:30am in Wellington Hall, St Mary’s Road, Dundalk. email womenssheddundalk@gmail.com. All women over 18 welcome. Phone 0870009890 for further details.

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Solicitors strike causing court system to ‘grind to a halt’ states Ó Murchú

THE court system in Dundalk and around the State is not ‘functioning effectively’ as Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan says, but is ‘grinding to a halt’, Louth TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has told the Dáil. During a debate on legislation to consolidate Garda powers, the Sinn Féin TD said he had been in Dundalk District Court on Wednesday to hear

tributes to the late solicitor James MacGuill and had seen the impact of the current row between solicitors and the Minister for justice over the changes to criminal legal aid. Deputy Ó Murchú said: “I saw that the many talented solicitors who grace the District Court in Dundalk were only dealing with custody cases, all the other cases being adjourned

to 18 November or even January. “Yet, the Minister for justice is telling the public that the criminal courts are functioning effectively. It was clear to see they are not. Behind each of these numbers is a defendant without representation, a victim whose wait for justice keeps getting put back, gardaí wanting to bring a case to a conclusion

and many others who are directly impacted. “The figures that show the collapse of the criminal legal aid certs issued from July 2025 to July 2026 are stark. In Dundalk, in July 2025 there were 329 certificates issued and this July, just 19 were issued, representing a 94.2% drop, which is huge. “These figures are replicated at district courts around the State. What is needed is proper engagement and for solicitors and the Minister for justice to get around a table and sort this out. The irony is not lost on solicitors and the public that this was the first piece of legislation to

come before the Dáil in the new term. “This Bill places on statutory footing the existing right of people in custody to consult a solicitor before and during interview and provides for electronic recording of interviews by gardaí where, previously, everything that was said in a Garda interview had to be handwritten. “The Minister now faces, because of this strike, solicitors not attending at Garda stations any more. There needs to be urgent engagement with solicitors’ representatives. I have seen for myself how the system is not working at the moment”. Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD.

School bollards ‘very childish looking’, says Councillor PENCIL shaped bollards around secondary schools look too childish for their surroundings, Cllr Sean Kelly (FF) has told Dundalk Municipal District. He described them as “very childish looking”, drawing

particular attention to bollards around two secondary schools in the town saying their appearance did not “look aesthetically well” in the secondary-school setting. Responding, a council official said the bollards formed

part of the Safe Routes to School programme involving An Taisce. The official explained that this was the design arrived at and how the work had been approached at the time.

One month in prison for man who failed to pay €8 taxi fare A MAN who failed to pay a taxi fare was sentenced to one month in prison after pleading guilty to the offence at Dundalk District Court and was warned not to do it again. Thirty-year-old Cian Kearney of 47 Oldbridge, Toberona, Dundalk, admitted making off without paying the €8 fare at Clanbrassil St, Dundalk, on April 13th, 2024.

Solicitor Fergal Boyle informed the court that his client was in custody with a release date in March 2027 and that he was anxious to deal with the matter. He added that his client had been doing well in prison, and that he had recently completed a residential programme, while also had become a father. In imposing the sentence, Judge Nicola Andrews stated

that she considered this a serious offence but commended him for his efforts to make progress. “This is a serious matter. I don’t like this business of people getting taxis and not paying for them so don’t do it again. “I am noting the progress he is making in prison”, she stated while offering congratulations on becoming a father.

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Gerry receives Scouting Ireland’s highest honour

DUNDALK man Gerry Byrne has received the highest award a serving member can receive in Scouting Ireland. The Order of Cú Chulainn Award recognises exceptional dedication, leadership and service. Gerry, of St Patrick’s Scout Group 1st/2nd/5th Louth, who has over 35 years experience in scouting, was given the shock of his life as he was presented with the award by Chief Scout of Ireland Eoin Callanan. Eoin drove up from Cork especially to present Gerry with his award and as he was doing so Gerry’s wife, daughters, mother and friends all appeared to make the moment extra special for him. According to Gerry he had absolutely no idea that the presentation was taking place. “They got me good,” laughs Gerry. “We were in the hall for our annual graduation ceremony where kids move up to the next section in their scouting journey and where we give out awards.

“All of a sudden the Chief Scout of Ireland Eoin Callanan appeared and I still had no idea what was going on. I asked him what he was doing in Dundalk and then my family and friends appeared and the penny finally dropped as to what was happening,” explains Gerry. “It was a lovely evening and I’m proud to have had my family there to share the moment with me. I’ve been involved with scouting for just over 35 years now and I’ve gone through every section before becoming a leader. I absolutely love being a part of the Scouts and all of my daughters have gone through the scouting system as well. My wife Irene is a Girl Guide Leader and she was recently appointed Regional Commissioner for the North East so we all love being a part of these organisations. “There have been changes over the last 35 years such as boys and girls can mix now in the scouts

Gerry and Irene Byrne. but at the heart of it all the basics are still the same. Scouting has worked well for over 100 years now so why re-invent the wheel. You wouldn’t believe what the kids get out of it. I’ve seen the quietest most timid kids come through our doors and it is fantastic to see them gain confidence and flourish as they progress through the ranks.

“We had a young fella recently who was applying for the gardaí and he had scout leader down on his CV and he was told that had put him up the pecking order of the applications received. You learn social skills and practical skills that can help you in life and you also make friends for life. It’s a fantastic organisation and I am honoured to be a part of it,”

added Gerry. Louth Scout County praised Gerry for his dedication and expressed their delight after he received his award. “The Order of Cú Chulainn Award is the highest award a serving member can receive in Scouting Ireland, recognising exceptional dedication, leadership and service. Only a select few members receive this prestigious award each year, making Gerry’s achievement truly special. “With over 35 years in Scouting, with his commitment and guidance, Gerry has given incredible service to generations of young people in Dundalk area, helping them develop and flourish. Gerry also helped with Patrol and Assistant Patrol Leader training, which helps youth develop valuable leadership skills, build confidence, take on responsibility, and support younger members of the group. “He played a vital role in the

re-establishment of the 5th Louth Scout Section in 2012, which has since achieved Phoenix Challenge qualifications in 2015, 2016 & 2017, and has served as Group Leader of St. Patrick’s among many other leadership positions throughout the years both in Louth Scout County and North Eastern province. “A very well-deserved Order of Cú Chulainn Award. Bravoissmo Gerry, and thank you for 35+ years of outstanding service!,” read the statement. One of St Patrick’s Scouts biggest fundraisers of the year takes place soon and tickets for the ’12 Days of Christmas’ draw will be available to buy within the next couple of weeks. All proceeds raised support local scouting activities and development. Keep an eye on the St Patrick’s Scout Group Facebook page for further details over the next couple of weeks.

St Kevins Mothers and Others are New York bound QUIZ

St Kevins Mothers and Others team will represent Louth at the International Mothers and Others Festival in New York which takes place on October 10th in Rockland GAA Centre. type of social outlet in our community. As a mother you can get caught in a bit of a rut. Maybe you are working all day and then you get home to feed the kids and then it’s bedtime and rinse repeat. A lot of women tend to concentrate on their families and leave little time for themselves. “We set this up with the idea of offering fitness, fun and laughter and it took off straight away. We have on average about 40 mem-

bers every year and we train once a week on Wednesday evenings under the watchful eye of our coach Gary Drumgoole. We have women who used to play, women who have never kicked a ball in their life and all in between. It’s great craic and we are learning new skills and making new friends and I have had women come up to me and say ‘I needed this Maud’ which is why I started this group in the first place.

“It’s a space for women to bond together and have fun and it’s good for both physical and mental health. We go on nights out together, we attend blitzes as far away as Ballincollig in Cork where we played in August. We go for runs together, socialise together, walk together and we have become a very close knit team. We have applied every year for this Mothers and Others Festival of Football in New York which invites one team

from every county in Ireland but this is the first time we have been successful and everybody is so excited ahead of the trip. We leave Ireland on October 7th and return on Monday October 11th and we have been busy fundraising for the trip and getting lots of support from St Kevins. In our main Stateside Draw the first prize was a calf which was something a little bit different and we revealed the winner in the Village Saloon in Dromin and that was a fantastic evening. Previously we have hosted two cold water dips in the winter for Women’s Aid Dundalk and we have also fundraised for Motor Neurone Disease,” explained Maud. “We have been invited to the Wolfe Tone Pub in Manhattan which is owned by Irishman Derek Curtis so we will look forward to that on our trip also. Everybody is just buzzing to get going and we all know it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s a special group and I’m so proud to be a part of it. My heart melted last week when one of the 12 year old girls in the club came up to a group of us and said ‘I can’t wait til I’m old enough to be a Mother and Other’ and that’s what it’s all about I suppose,” concluded Maud.

Warning for man who had car seized after failing to stop at checkpoint

A MAN who had his car seized after it was alleged that he failed to stop at a Garda checkpoint was warned that he would end up in very hot water if he failed to adhere to conditions on having the vehicle returned. The 23-year-old man made a successful application at Dundalk District Court to have the car returned following an incident on

Saturday September 5th. Judge Nicola Andrews warned the man that he was not to drive the car again until Gardai were satisfied that it was in roadworthy condition as she ordered the vehicle to be released. It was stated in Garda evidence that on that date a car failed to stop at a checkpoint, forcing the officer to move out of the way. The

driver was identified and later admitted driving on that date when Gardai called to his house. The car was seized as a result. The court heard that the loss of his car was putting the applicant and family under pressure as and had been using his mother’s car to attend work. Court Presenter Sgt Richie Browne stated that there was no

Garda objection to the application subject to conditions and paying the related fees. The court was told that the car was not in a roadworthy condition due to damage, while it needed four new tyres, had tinted windows and a broken wing mirror. Judge Andrews told the applicant that he would have to carry out the repairs and allow Gardai

to inspect the vehicle before he drove. “If you were to do something stupid like driving around in the car before taking it to the Gardai, I won’t accept any excuses. You will be in breach of the undertaking and will be in very hot water”, added Judge Andrews as she ordered the car to be released.

1—In what country did Ireland’s Nations League match against Israel take place on Sunday evening? 2—”Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?” are the opening lyrics to which song? 3—How many rooks are on a chess board at the start of a game? 4—Who were Athos, Porthos and Aramis? 5—Where was the Ashley Arms bar in Dundalk? 6—What girl’s name was in the Oasis song ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’? 7—Who Is Ireland’s youngest ever Taoiseach who took office? 8—O’Connell Street, William Street, Sarsfield Street and Cruises Street are well known streets in which Irish city? 9—Some people are super flexible and can twist their bodies into funny shapes to entertain others. What do you call a person like that? 10—What connects the words cat, sword and jelly? The Stinker—Germany, South Africa, Brazil, Russia, Qatar . . . what three countries come next?

—ANSWERS— 1—Hungary (Debrecen), 2—Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, 3—4 (two for each player), 4—The Three Musketeers, 5—At the back of the old shopping centre, 6—Sally, 7—Simon Harris (37 years old), 8—Limerick, 9—Contortionist, 10—You can add the word fish to all of them. The Stinker: Canada, United States and Mexico. (Last six hostings of the soccer World Cup).

A GROUP of local women are preparing for the trip of a lifetime when they go stateside to represent Louth at a GAA Blitz in New York in October. The St Kevin’s Mothers and Others GAA club started out five years ago when Maud Fanning recognised that a lot of women living locally were in need of a social outlet where they could both keep fit and more importantly have the craic together. Today the club has around 40 members and is thriving and recently they were given the opportunity of a lifetime when they were picked in a lottery to represent Louth at the International Mothers and Others festival in New York. Festivities will begin on Friday October 9th with a 5k fun run in Central Park before the group get a chance for some sightseeing in the city that never sleeps. On Saturday the ladies will take to the pitch in Rockland GAA Centre for a full day of blitz action. According to Maud the trip represents a remarkable milestone for a group that was only established five years ago. “I started the group off because I had seen other teams that were getting set up at the time and I had heard good things about them. I thought there was a need for this

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

New regulations raising minimum age for FAMILY NOTICES e-scooter use to 18 to come in this Friday

MINISTER for Transport Darragh O’Brien and Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety Seán Canney have introduced new regulations to raise the age limit for e-scooter users from 16 to 18 years of age. This change will come into effect from 2nd October 2026. Regulations to double the fees for detention and storage of seized e-scooters have also been signed. This means that fees will rise to €80 for detention and the first day of storage and €30 for each additional day of storage. This will also take effect from 2nd October. These regulations follow recent changes making helmets and highvisibility clothing mandatory for e-scooter users since 4th September 2026. Minister O’Brien said: “Increasing the minimum age for e-scooter use to 18 is a necessary and proportionate road safety measure. We have seen a concerning number of serious injuries and fatalities involving young e-scooter users, and our regulations need to address this. Together with the recent introduction of mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, these changes send a clear

message that e-scooters must be used responsibly and safely.” Minister Canney said: “I am happy to have signed these regulations today. They are about protecting lives and preventing serious injuries. Raising the minimum age for e-scooter users to 18, alongside mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, will help to improve safety and encourage responsible behaviour on our roads.” Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer said: “Raising the minimum age for

e-scooter use to 18, alongside the introduction of mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, is a sensible measure that will help protect road users and promote responsible use. Our focus is on ensuring that active and sustainable travel options can continue to grow in a way that is safe for everyone, whether in urban centres or rural communities.” Following legal advice from the Attorney General’s Office, the proposed age limit increase was notified to the European Commission through the EU TRIS (Technical Regulation Information System)

process. This process usually involves a 12-week standstill. However, Ireland sought the application of an expedited ‘Urgency Procedure’, citing significant road safety concerns and the serious injuries associated with underage use of e-scooters. The Commission accepted Ireland’s case and agreed that the Urgency Procedure was justified. As a result, the standard 12-week TRIS standstill period no longer applied, enabling Ministers to introduce regulations at this stage. Government approved a series of road safety measures for e-scooters in July 2026. Further measures will be introduced in the coming weeks, as the necessary legislative, administrative and technical changes are confirmed: Charges for Fixed Charge Notices will be increased to €100 for e-scooter offences; Fixed Charge Notice offence for not wearing a helmet or highvisibility clothing while using an e-scooter will be introduced at the new rate of €100. Further work is also being progressed on the registration of escooters.

Kilkerley AC have big plans ALMOST two years ago, Kilkerley Athletics Club reopened its doors. Today, we are incredibly proud to have grown into a thriving club with over 100 members. Behind the scenes, our committee has been working on an exciting long-term development plan to secure the future of the club and provide improved facilities for our current athletes and generations to come. We are delighted to share the first stages of that vision: Phase One – the installation of a new long-jump pit; Phase Two – the development of a running track. These facilities will be developed in the field beside Kilkerley Community Centre. They will allow our athletes to develop their skills, train for a wider range of events and participate more fully in athletics competitions. To help bring this vision to life, we are now seeking support from local businesses and sponsors. If you would like to contribute to the development or have your business associated with our growing community club, we would be delighted to hear from you. We will also be announcing a number of fundraising activities in the months ahead. We hope the entire community will get behind us and help make these much-needed facilities a reality. This development is about much more than today’s membership. It is about building something lasting for the children, families and athletes of Kilkerley and the wider community – now and well into the future. To support the project contact Peter Kelleher: 087 910 4395, or any committee member or message us through our social media pages. All support greatly appreciated.

IN MEMORIAM

JUDE GIBBS Blackrock, Dundalk 4th ANNIVERSARY Monday 5th October 2026 In loving memory of Jude, Though we need to weep your loss, you dwell in that safe place in our hearts, where no storm or night or pain can reach you. Though your days here were brief, your spirit was alive, awake, complete. Let us not look for you only in memory, where we would grow lonely without you. You would want us to find you in presence, beside us when beauty brightens, when kindness glows And music echoes eternal tones. May you continue to inspire us: To enter each day with a generous heart. To serve the call of courage and love until we see your beautiful face again In that land where there is no more separation, where all tears will be wiped from our mind, And where we will never lose you again. -Deeply loved and missed beyond measure by your heartbroken Mam (Lynn McGuinness), your Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, little Penny & new family additions and your great Friend James. Anniversary mass for Jude will take place in The Holy Family Parish church on Saturday 3rd October @ 7pm.

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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M.C.

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

Weekly Deadline For FAMILY NOTICES is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication. Contact LORNA for further information.

Tel 042 9320888

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

ARTICLES FOR SALE

SPECIAL SERVICES

PLANNING NOTICES

EFCHO CHAINSAW for sale. 6510 Professional. New Carbrator. Fully serviced. €350.00 ONO. Contact 087 0951030. FOR SALE—30 Boxes of Quality Italian Tiles. Mixed, bathroom, kitchen and floor tiles. €140 the lot. Tel: 086 2550848.

QUALIFIED CARPENTER—Looking to transform your home.? I specialise in Architraves, Panelling, Doors, Flooring and all carpentry aspects. Contact Mark. R 083 4162364. MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 087 - 6067122. 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. 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 085762-3758 for quotation. HEDGE CUTTING—Tree pruning, general garden maintenance & clearance, power washing & gutter cleaning. Lawns cut large and small in Darver and surrounding areas. Contact 087 2296441. CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING—Trusted for over 30 years. Expert care, sparkling results. Call Patrick on 0872492325 or visit www. carpetcleaningservices.ie . PAT THE PAINTER—Indoor & outdoor decorating. Wallpapering, Power Washing, Picture, Mirror and Curtain Pole Hanging, Painting Kitchen Units & Furniture, DIY. Free quotations Email patthepainter1@gmail. com Mob 087 2951047. DMC GARDEN Maintenance services. Hedges, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower, strimming, weeding beds, moss removal, demolition and removal of old sheds, fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. For free quote please call 087 7019178. POWERWASHING AT ELITE Window Cleaning, Roof Cleaning, Fascia, Soffits and gutter cleaning, Sheds etc. Maintenance services also available. Contact David 087 4338418. 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. KEVIN McMAHON ELECTRICAL Dundalk, small household jobs, safe electrical approved Tel 087 2548221 after 5pm. GRAVE CARE—We provide a reliable and caring service throughout Dundalk and surrounding areas. Grave Tending, Headstone Cleaning, Lettering Repainting, Flower and Wreath Placement and Regular Care visits available. - Caring for your loved ones’ final resting place - For enquiries please call 0892521646 or email grainne@ cherishgraves.com Follow us on Instagram cherish—graves— or check out our website www.cherishgraves.com. PLASTERING DONE to high standard. Small, internal jobs only. Contact Matt 086 8188277. REFACE YOUR KITCHEN/wardrobes. Transform your old kitchen units with a respray. 40 years + experience. Tel Shanlis Kitchens 087 9839695. SIDE GATES supplied and fitted. Made to Order. Fence panels supplied and fitted. Call Jessie 087 6429223 or Joe 087 2317666.

HERITAGE PAINTING & Decorating. Residential & Commercial. Reputation built on recommendations. Internal & External, dustless sanding system, wallpapering & Murals. Call Colin 087 7874173 Email colin@heritagepainting.ie. uPVC/ALUMINIUM window and door repairs. Replace double glazing units, locks, handles, hinges, and general service/ adjustments contact Niall 089 9553774 anytime .

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION & REVISED PLANS. Name of applicant: Racecourse Road Developments Limited. Reference number of the application: 2660138. Location: Lands at Racecourse Meadows, Racecourse Road, Dundalk. The development applied for consisted of permission for a total of 57no. apartment units as follows: (a) The provision of a total of 57no. apartments units consisting of 30no.1 bed units and 27no. 2 bed units across 3no. buildings. Block A comprises 10no. 1 bed units and 9no. 2 bed units over five storeys, Block B comprises 10no. 1 bed units and 9no. 2 bed units over five storeys and Block C comprises 10no. 1 bed units and 9no. 2 bed units over five storeys. (b) Provision of associated car parking at surface level via on-street parking. (c) Provision of electric vehicle charge points with associated site infrastructure ducting to provide charge points for residents throughout the site. (d) Provision of associated bulk & bin storage facilities at surface level within the 3no. proposed apartment blocks (A, B & C). (e) Provision of associated bicycle storage facilities at surface level adjoining the apartment blocks. (f) Upgrade works to the existing internal estate road and footpaths. (g) Provision of new additional internal access roads and footpaths and associated works. (h) Provision of residential communal open space areas to include a formal play area along with all hard and soft landscape works with public lighting, planting and boundary treatments. (i) Internal site works and attenuation systems. (j) All ancillary site development / construction works to facilitate foul, water and service networks for connection to the existing foul, water, gas and ESB networks. Significant Further Information and Revised Plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Planning Authority during it’s public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information or Revised Plans may be made in writing to the planning authority not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We intend to apply to the above Planning authority on behalf of Brendan & Aisling Connolly for Permission for development at Mounthamilton, Carrickmacross Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The Development consists of one dwellinghouse, connection to existing sewerage system and all 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 from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and a submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to Louth County Council in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by Louth County Council of the application. Signed: ECC Design & Engineering Ltd., Jenkinstown Business Park, Jenkinstown, Dundalk Tel. 042 9380285. E-Mail info@eccgroup.ie. Web www.eccgroup.ie.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Ryan Treacy, intend to apply for permission for development at this dwelling at Greyacre Road, Newtownbalregan, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of the demolition of elements of the existing dwelling, the provision of a single storey extension to the south and west of the existing dwelling, changes to the existing roof which includes a change of pitch alongside the addition of dormer style windows, alterations to the existing elevations alongside internal and external refurbishment works, and a new Ecoflo Coco Filter and soil polishing filter together with all associated site development works. 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. Signed: McMahon McBennett - Chartered Architectural Consultants | Certified Passive House Designers - info@ mcmahonmcbennett.com. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Industrial Maintenance Services LTD, intend to apply for Permission for development at Milestown, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth. The development will consist of: 1. new storage shed (Floor Area = 472m2, height = 7.82m). 2. The following amendments to the development approved under Planning Reg. Ref, no. 2560423: (i) relocation of waste water treatment system ii) revision of site boundaries (iii) revision of internal site layout. 3. All 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: McCoy Building Surveying & Design, Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co. Louth. A91 C3W7. Tel. 0871410372. E-mail: shane@ mccoybsd.com.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—FURTHER INFORMATION. We, Allison & Brian Duffy, have submitted to the planning authority significant further information in relation to planning application ref. no. 2660469 at Barrett’s Lane, Ardee, Co. Louth. This significant further information in relation to the application has been furnished to the planning authority, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the authority during its public opening hours. (Monday – Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm) A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the planning authority not later than two weeks after receipt of this newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Leinster Property Consultants, 5 Castle Street, Ardee, Co. Louth. Tel. 0873805762.

ARTICLES WANTED WANTED—All your old GAA, Dundalk, Irish programmes and Tickets, the older the better. Check you attics and your sheds. Contact Ger on 086 2630363 or GCProgrammes@gmail.com.

PROPERTY/RENTALS 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.

SPECIAL SERVICES CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—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 087-2259799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 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, clean Solar panels, 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. 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. 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 & BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. 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.

SITUATIONS VACANT GENTLEMAN in Dundalk area requires tuition for basic computer and phone literacy Tel Gerard 083 0098695.

CLASSES & COURSES 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. LINE DANCING Dance classes every Tuesday at 7pm. Dowdallshill GAA Gall Newry Road. A91 PNY5. Beginners welcome. Contact 087 2618773.

PERSONAL GENT—Early 60s, wishes to hear from other males for friendship. Various interests, age unimportant, Louth area. Genuine advert. Text 087 3802671.

PLANNING NOTICES LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Bryan Crosbie intend to apply for Planning Permission for development to comprise new detached domestic garage, new vehicular entrance to public road , revised site boundaries and all associated siteworks at No. 1 Oyster Bay Court, Greenore Road, Carlingford, Co.Louth. 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 from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Michael Mulligan, intend to apply for Full planning permission for Extensions and alterations of existing protected structure reference number D045 at No.5 Demesne Terrace, Carrickmacross Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 R9K2. Alterations and extensions to include alterations to existing single storey extension and modifications within existing protected structure and all 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 from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED

LEGAL NOTICES Case No: D:LIC:LOUT:2026:010104 AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT No. 66.1 Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 section 15 APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE District Court Area of Louth District No. 6 Liam Boyle as Nominee of Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Liam Boyle as nominee of Blue Diamond Sports No. 2 Limited of 8 Park Street, Dundalk, Dundalk, Louth, will apply to the Court sitting at Dundalk District Court on the 10 Nov 2026 at 10:30 for a certificate under section 15 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956 (No. 2 of 1956), authorising the issue of a licence permitting gaming at an amusement hall or funfair, namely 8 Park Street, Dundalk, County Louth A91 XD8V situate at 8 Park Street, Dundalk, Louth, A91 XD8V in said court area, subject to such conditions as may be imposed in accordance with section 15(4) of the said Act. The number and kinds of games proposed to be carried on are as follows:- Number of Machines: 110; Gaming Type Details: Amusement Hall/ Funfare. The period in the particular year to which this application relates for which the licence is sought is 2027. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the applicant will rely on the following matters in support of the application:1. The forms of entertainment other than gaming to be provided are as follows: Forms of Entertainment other than Gaming on the Premises: 5 Video Games Dated this 21st day of September 2026 Signed: Brian Berrills & Co. Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, 18 Francis Street, Dundalk, Louth. To the District Court Clerk at Dundalk District Court; And to the Superintendent of the Garda Síochána at Garda Louth North (Dundalk), at LCM. LouthNorth.CE@Garda.ie, Dundalk Garda Station, The Crescent, Dundalk, Louth, A92 DK46; And to the Fire Officer of fireoff@louthcoco.ie, Louth Fire Brigade, Dundalk, Louth; And to (Local Authority) County Council Louth.

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

WAYNE KEEPING PEOPLE CONNECTED IN COUNTY LOUTH By Paul Byrne LOUTH County Council Broadband Officer Wayne Mackin began his role as Broadband Officer for Louth County Council just over a year ago. His role sees him act as a dedicated local point of contact within a local authority or council to coordinate telecommunications infrastructure, assist the public, and facilitate high-speed internet rollouts “I’m from Cox’s Demesne in Dundalk. I did my Community Sports Leadership Degree in DkIT and after that I did a work placement in the Louth Sports Partnership. From there I got a part-time relief job in Dundalk Sports Centre. I stayed with the Sports Department in the Louth Local Sports Partnership for about 5 ½ years and then decided to come in house into the Local Authority. “I started in the Housing Assistance Scheme also known as the HAP section. I moved on to homeless services and worked there for a while. I then got promoted to Assistant Staff Officer here in the Local Enterprise Office and was in that role for probably two years. I got another promotion as staff officer in HR and that got me up to May 2025 when I got promoted to Senior Staff Officer and the Broadband section is where I have worked for the past year and a bit,” explained Wayne. NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN “I suppose the National Broadband Plan is a project that is on time and on budget and has gone pretty smoothly all in all. In Louth in a couple of weeks, on the 9th of October we are actually having our National Broadband Ireland close out event which is celebrating the fact that under the National Broadband Plan, the network for every house in Louth under the plan now has the build part completed. So what exactly are we celebrating? “As of the end of June this year, Louth has 92.5% Gigabit coverage which essentially means that 92.5% of houses/buildings in Louth can access high speed broadband. So far only 62% of people have taken it up but the option is there for 92.5% of the people to do so if they wish. “The build part is now completed and Louth now has the infrastructure in place to allow

Broadband Officer for Louth, Wayne Mackin. practically everybody in the County to access High Speed Broadband should they choose. The purpose of the National Broadband Ireland Plan was that Eir, Siro, Virgin Media were responsible for the network build across the country. There were certain areas across the country that these operators could not service so a national plan had to be put in place. €33m was invested in Louth. This is a 25 year plan and we are celebrating the completion of the initial construction phase. “We’re bringing in representatives from National Broadband Ireland and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and we will have the event in the old jail on the Carrick Road. By the end of this year every county in the country will have their main infrastructure build works completed and National Broadband Ireland have been rolling out these closing out events over the last few months. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT WITH THE PLAN? “As I said, this is a 25 year plan and it began in 2019 so there is still plenty more work to do. It’s not going to stop at the end of this year. The next part will focus on where have we got blackspots around the county. What is the reason for these blackspots. If people are not able to get connected to high speed broadband, what is the reason? We are in a

digital era now and it’s important that we ensure everybody who wants high speed broadband is able to get it. LIASING WITH NEW BUSINESSES IN LOUTH “As Broadband Officer for Louth I am the single point of contact. I am obviously not the service provider but if somebody who is running a business has an issue with their service and they feel they are not getting anywhere with their complaints to their provider they can come to me and I would have points of contact in Eir, Siro, Virgin, Department of Communications or whoever the provider might be. I can be the single point of contact and can speed up the process. Now if you have slow broadband you wouldn’t necessarily come to me although I could give advice on how to improve the signal and stuff like that. “We want full connectivity and we want to ensure everybody is getting the best from the service. WHAT ARE BROADBAND CONNECTION POINTS? “The number one challenge we have is identifying blackspots across the county. The majority of problems we face is trying to get to the most rural parts of County Louth. We have the Broadband Connection Point Network which consists of 300 Broadband Connection Points around the country. We have nine Broadband Connection

Points here in Louth. Three are coastal sites and six are in actual premises. These nine locations are in the most rural parts of County Louth so Clogherhead Pier, Stephenstown Pond, Templetown Beach, Port Beach, Mattock Rangers, Roche Emmets GAA Club, Annaghminnon Rovers in Stonetown and Kilanny GAA Club. “We put high speed broadbands at these nine locations. So if you have a problem with your internet and you need to get something really important sent off you can go to one of these nine sites across Louth and connect to the free wi-fi and get your work done. Now, my next project is to use these points and start a digital skills programme and get young and old to utilise the infrastructure at these locations and not just use it for free wi-fi. I am working with age friendly programmes, schools programmes, kids codes and get different companies to come in and teach people digital skills programmes at these locations. Most of these programmes currently take place in big towns like Dundalk or Drogheda so this would save people in these rural locations having to travel into town all the time to access these programmes. HELPING ELDERLY BECOME DIGITALLY LITERATE “What I am working on at the moment is to try and create a list of different services we can deliver which will target older adults and vulnerable people. We want to provide them with digital skills, digital literacy, digital safety. How to identify if something they see online or on their phone is fraudulent, how to keep them safe. The big thing we are trying to focus on is trying to give the older adults more confidence in actually using digital. We are in a digital area and we are moving forward at pace in that era. We don’t want to leave anyone behind and feeling lost. Things are changing very quickly so we have to be aware of that. I could organise an event on AI next week and six months down the line al that information could be obsolete. “We are looking to teach older adults who maybe on their own to learn how to use ZOOM how to use Teams and be able to connect to people. The good thing with the Broadband Connection Points is we can bring these pro-

grammes to rural areas and that will be the big push over the next 12 months. CURRENT BROADBAND SPEEDS & WHEN CAN WE EXPECT GIGABIT SPEEDS “Ten years ago we were getting maybe 10Mbps if you were lucky,” laughs Wayne. “We are aiming towards delivering access to speeds of 1 GIGABIT over the next couple of years. At the moment most people get speeds of maybe half that but as we all know that isn’t always the case. In different parts of the house you might be getting less than advertised. Thicker walls and maybe distance from the router can see speeds drop but in terms of infrastructure and having everything in place we are looking to ensure everybody has access to speeds of 1GB by 2028. This will be met through a combination of commercial operators continuing to invest in their networks and the State’s National Broadband Plan intervention, which is being implemented by National Broadband Ireland. “You never know what the future holds and what is in store. Are they going to find another way of communicating in the upcoming years? Look back twenty, thirty years ago when we were using dial up on the old computers we never thought there was going to be anything quicker than that. Our phones only had text messages and snake and now look at them so change can come quickly. It can be scary but it’s interesting to see where we are going to go. REMOTE WORKING TO INCREASE? “We have the Downtown Hub here in Dundalk which has proved very popular. I am not sure that there is going to be a huge increase in Downtown Hubs in the next few years. I think the infrastructure is in place now that people have their high speed broadband at home so if anything I think we will see more people work from home. The Downtown Hub is an amazing set up and Louth County Council actually opened one in Drogheda last year. It’s on Narrow West St in Drogheda and you can go in book your table and do your work in there. If you want to get out of the house and be in a working environment the options are there in Louth. WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOUR JOB? “The NBI element of my job

will be completed by the end of the year in terms of having built the infrastructure to deliver high speed broadband to every house in Louth. So at the moment we are looking at the role and see what we can do to get the digital agenda out there and to help people understand better all these changes that have been happening in our lives with regards to the digital era. “I’m working with different sections across Louth County Council whether that be the arts office where we hope to do some digital art programmes with a number of local groups. I’m linking in with the Louth Enterprise Office to talk about setting up digital programmes to help local businesses. We are talking to the Age Friendly Department to set up talks to help the elderly become more digital/computer literate. “I’m working with the tourism office on a digital programme to celebrate he story of St Brigid which will be completed soon. Digital is everywhere and even here in Louth County Council it is across the board. By 2030 Management are very supportive in being aware of the importance of digitalisation and we have an obligation to have 90% of our services digitalised so we are working towards that. DO YOU ENJOY YOUR JOB? I enjoy it immensely. I’m here on my own in the office but I do get the opportunity to meet the other Broadband Officers. There’s one of us in every local authority across the country. We have our own WhatsApp group and we meet in person every month. Next month I am in Clare where the Clare Broadband Officer will host all of us. We sit down and each Broadband Officer talks about projects they are doing. We find out what’s working and what’s not working and we share ideas. “It’s that type of approach that helps us all improve and bring ideas back to our counties. It’s a job that I’ve been able to sink my teeth into and I can see the benefits of digitalisation and how it can improve all our lives. I want businesses that may be thinking of coming to Louth to be safe in the knowledge that the infrastructure is in place for high speed broadband and that Louth is a place that can support their business needs.

Ancillary report funded by Coimisiún na Meán’s Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

National Broadband Plan passes 500,000 premises as rollout enters final phase NATIONAL Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the Government’s National Broadband Plan, and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport have announced that more than 500,000 homes, farms and businesses have now been passed by its high-speed fibre network. The landmark achievement means that more than half a million premises across rural Ireland can now place an order for a fibre broadband connection through a participating internet service provider. 89% of the approximately 566,000 premises currently included in the National Broadband Plan Intervention Area have now been passed. The Intervention Area has grown by approximately 29,000 premises since the contract for the National Broadband Plan was signed, when 537,000 premises were identified for inclusion. The main infrastructure rollout remains on track for completion by the end of 2026. Speaking recently, Minister Patrick

O’Donovan said: “Passing 500,000 premises is a landmark moment for the National Broadband Plan and for rural Ireland. This project is our generation’s version of rural electrification, creating new opportunities and ensuring that people can continue to live, work and raise their

families in thriving rural communities. “High-speed broadband is enabling people to work and study from home, supporting the growth of farms and businesses, and ensuring communities have reliable access to essential public and digital services.

“The National Broadband Plan is on track, with the rollout progressing on time and on budget and with further county completion milestones approaching. It is clear that the Government’s intervention is delivering real results, connecting communities and creating opportunities right across Ireland.” David McCourt, Chairman of National Broadband Ireland, said: “We’re very proud to have now passed 500,000 premises. This milestone represents a long-term investment in the future of rural communities and in Ireland’s capacity to compete, innovate and grow. “The National Broadband Plan is creating essential infrastructure that will serve generations. It demonstrates what can be achieved when Government, industry and communities work together towards a shared ambition: ensuring that where someone chooses to live does not limit their access to opportunity. “I want to thank everyone whose commitment and expertise have brought the

project to this defining point. We now have the finish line firmly in sight.” TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: “Passing over half a million premises at this stage of the programme is a hugely significant achievement for NBI and for the many people involved in delivering the National Broadband Plan. “Building a fibre network across some of Ireland’s most rural and remote locations is an enormous engineering and operational undertaking. We are now firmly in the final phase of the main build, and our focus is on maintaining the pace of delivery and completing the remaining premises by the end of 2026. “The next sequence of county completion milestones planned for September and October reflects the momentum across the programme. Our teams will continue working with local authorities, delivery partners and communities to complete the main build and help more people connect to the network.”

National Broadband Plan connection now available near Ardee Almost 1,600 Louth homes and businesses near Ardee can now connect to fibre broadband on the NBI networkTM

NATIONAL Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has announced that Ardee has now been connected to high-speed fibre broadband. Almost 6,800 homes, farms and businesses in the county can place an order for high-speed broadband today. NBI’s connection of Ardee means that 1,578 homes and businesses can now access highspeed fibre broadband. This includes the rural surrounds of Ardee, Collon and Clonkeen. The completion of works near Ardee means that 6,787 premises that can now pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across Louth with 2,879 connections made to date. National Broadband Ireland is encouraging all Louth residents to visit nbi.ie and check their Eircode to see if they’re ready to connect and find out more about placing an order. NBI’s fibre broadband rollout under the National Broadband Plan is delivering broadband services to what is known as the State’s Intervention Area, which includes the most remote and rural parts of Ireland where

commercial operators have no plans to deliver high-speed broadband. The Intervention Area currently includes 9,000 premises in Louth which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools across the county. As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co Louth will receive €33m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan. As Ireland transitions away from legacy copper networks, NBI’s fibre network will ensure communities across Louth are prepared for the future by supporting remote working, education, healthcare access and local enterprise while providing the reliability needed for everyday living. TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: “We are delighted to announce that almost 1,600 Louth homes, businesses and farms near Ardee can now connect to NBI’s high-speed fibre broadband. Those connected are experiencing the life-changing benefits of high-speed fibre broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second. “With the national switch-off

of the copper network approaching, NBI’s fibre network will ensure communities across Co Louth are prepared for the future by supporting remote working, education, healthcare access, and local enterprise while providing the reliability needed for everyday living. “As we enter the final year of the National Broadband Plan rollout, we’re encouraging everyone in Louth to check their Eircode on nbi.ie and order now to secure high-speed fibre broadband for their home or business.” NATIONAL ROLLOUT PROGRESS NBI has now passed over 451,000 homes, farms and businesses in rural Ireland to highspeed broadband with over 165,000 now connected. The average take-up rate of 36% is well ahead of projections and international comparisons and surpasses 60% in some areas of the country where the network has been live for 18 months. The National Broadband Ireland website is regularly updated to show estimated completion dates. With the main rollout due to be concluded by the end of this year, the remaining homes and businesses yet to be passed will be able to place an order for

high-speed broadband in the coming months. The easiest way to get updates on when a premises will be ready to order is by signing up for NBI email alerts at nbi.ie. As fibre networks expand across Ireland, offering superior speed, capacity, and reliability, older copper telephone and broadband infrastructure will start to be decommissioned. The European Commission has proposed 2030 as the latest date for

the decommissioning of legacy copper networks. CHOOSING A BROADBAND PROVIDER As a wholesale network operator, NBI does not sell fibre broadband directly to end users, rather it enables services from a range of broadband providers or Retail Service Providers (RSPs). As a wholesale provider, NBI will make the new Fibre-to-theHome network available to all RSPs operating in the Interven-

tion Area. Over 50 RSPs are available on the NBI networkTM to provide connections as of today. To see all retail broadband providers that are currently on the NBI networkTM, visit nbi.ie. KEEP UP TO SPEED! NBI is encouraging people to check their eligibility and register for updates at nbi.ie to receive regular notifications related to their own premises as works progress in their area.

What is the National Broadband Plan? THE National Broadband Plan is the Government’s flagship digital infrastructure initiative, designed to deliver high-speed, reliable fibre broadband to homes, farms, businesses, schools and community facilities in areas not served by commercial operators. It is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever undertaken in Ireland and the most significant investment in rural connectivity since electrification. The network being delivered is Fibre-to-the-Home infrastructure, providing future-proof broadband capable of supporting remote working, online education, digital healthcare, smart farming, e-commerce and next generation business opportunities. The National Broadband Plan is delivering minimum broadband speeds of 500 megabits per second from the outset The network is future proofed to deliver up to 10Gbps speeds. Upon completion, the programme will make high-speed fibre broadband available to approximately 1.1 million people across rural Ireland. 2026 is a landmark year for the National Broadband Plan. The main infrastructure network build is due to be completed across the country by the end of the year. Kilkenny was the first county to be completed in June, and this work will continue throughout the remainder of the year until Limerick becomes the final county to be completed in December. Louth will have their National Broadband network build official roll out next month.

Ancillary report funded by Coimisiún na Meán’s Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com

NOAC Report Highlights ‘What’s the solution? Strong Performance Across Yore presses council on litter Key Services in County Louth LOUTH County Council has welcomed the publication of the NOAC Local Authority Performance Indicator Report 2025, which highlights strong performance across a range of key services, including housing, fire, economic development, community participation and financial management. Published annually by the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC), the report provides an independent assessment of local authority work across 11 service areas and 46 performance indicators, identifying both areas of achievement and opportunities for improvement. Housing performance was among the standout results. Louth County Council recorded a social housing vacancy rate of just 1.55%, significantly below the national average of 2.44%, while the average time taken to return vacant homes to use was 23.84 weeks, substantially lower than the national average of 32.08 weeks. During 2025, the Council also added 227 homes to its housing stock and completed energy retrofit works on 142 social homes, significantly above the national average of 86 homes. The report also identified challenges within housing. Rental inspections recorded a 99.87% noncompliance rate with rental standards at first inspection, underlining the continued importance of improving measures in private rental accommodation. Addressing long-term homelessness also remains a significant challenge, with 74.53% of homeless adults classed as long-term homeless, compared with 67.77% nationally. In fire services, Louth County Council returned the fastest fulltime mobilisation times in the State for both fire and non-fire emergencies, with average times of one minute and eight seconds

for fire incidents and one minute and 12 seconds for other emergency incidents. More than 67% of fire incidents were attended within 10 minutes, exceeding the national average of 58.11%. Positive results were recorded across a number of environmental and water services indicators. Ninety-three per cent of households had access to a three-bin waste collection service, well above the national average, while 45% of schools held Green Flag status. Compliance with drinking water standards in private schemes stood at 99.48%, with 100% of registered private water schemes monitored during the year. Litter management and environmental quality were identified as areas requiring continued improvement. Community participation was another strong area, with participation in Comhairle na nÓg among the highest in the country. Almost 95% of second-level schools in County Louth were represented, far above the national average of 67.22%. Louth County Council also achieved the highest rate nationally for both Trading Online Voucher approvals and drawdowns through the Louth Local Enterprise Office, while continuing to support ongoing economic growth and destination development through its tourism strategy and dedicated tourism officer. The report identified opportunities for improvement in aspects of planning and building control, while library participation also remained below national averages, highlighting the potential to further grow engagement with local library services. The Council also reported one of the lowest rates of medically certified sick leave in the local government sector at 2.88%, compared with a national average of 3.64%, reflecting continued in-

vestment in employee wellbeing and occupational health supports. Digital service uptake also remained strong, with 82.89% of motor tax transactions conducted online during 2025. Financially, Louth County Council continued to demonstrate good governance, reporting a revenue account surplus of €4.46 million and maintaining strong collection rates across commercial rates, rents and housing loans. David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: “The NOAC Performance Indicator Report provides an important independent assessment of local authority performance and a valuable benchmark for measuring progress and identifying opportunities to further enhance service delivery. “With responsibility for delivering more than 1,100 services across County Louth, the report reflects the commitment and professionalism of our staff in serving communities across the county every day. “It is encouraging to see strong results across many areas, including housing, fire services, economic development and community engagement. Equally, the report highlights areas where further progress is needed, and we will continue to use these findings to support evidence-based decision-making, service planning and continuous improvement. “Strong governance is founded on accountability, measurement and transparency, and the NOAC process plays an important role in helping local authorities deliver the best possible outcomes for the communities they serve.” You can read the NOAC Local Authority Performance Indicator Report 2025 here.

Cross-border ‘booze trail’ raises concerns over Jonesborough Road traffic WEEKEND trips across the border to buy alcohol are contributing to a “disproportionate amount of traffic” on the Jonesborough Road, according to Cllr John Reilly (FG). Describing a “booze trail” towards Jonesborough and the North, Cllr Reilly called for clear-

er road markings or more noticeable “slow” signs at two sites near the railway bridge along the route. He said the volume of traffic was particularly heavy at weekends, also pointing to journeys for fireworks and heating oil. “You can’t move the bridge and you can’t move the road,” he said,

asking instead for more prominent markings or a “slow” sign with a red background. A council official said he understood the issue Cllr Reilly was referring to and that the council could look at extra signage, including “slow” signs.

JUST 2% of the area surveyed for litter in Louth was rated litter-free in 2025, down from 6% the previous year, according to figures published by the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC). Independent Cllr Maeve Yore raised the findings at Louth County Council’s September meeting, where she wanted to know what would be done to improve conditions. “I just want to know what’s the plan to address littering,” she said. “Is it more outdoor staff, more bins, or more weeding, or what’s the solution?” The figures, published by the NOAC, come from surveys used to monitor litter levels and help councils decide where action is needed. Most of the area surveyed in Louth (65%) was rated

Cllr Maeve Yore. “slightly polluted”. There was some improvement in the middle category, “moderately polluted”, which fell from 28% to 20%. However, the share in the more serious

“significantly polluted” category increased from 10% to 12%. Responding to Cllr Yore, a council official said, “We have very significant investment in street cleaning and we have six active litter wardens. “So we do have very significant enforcement, very significant action in terms of littering, but it is a persistent problem and something we are trying to address.” The official also referred to meetings held as part of the council’s work on Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), bringing those involved together to discuss problems and ways to improve conditions. “IBAL is a good yardstick that we can employ, but it is something we are constantly trying to improve.”

Repeated push for “non Irish” breakdown of social housing allocation figures LOUTH County Council is to come back to councillors on a request for a breakdown of the households that received social housing during 2025 and so far this year. Cllr Shane McGuinness (FF) renewed the request at Monday’s council meeting, weeks after figures showed that 30% of applicants on Louth’s social housing waiting list were described as “non-Irish”. That figure related only to people waiting for housing but did not show the breakdown of those who had actually received a home. Cllr McGuinness had said that councillors needed the allocation figures so they could give accurate answers when questioned by members of the public about housing. At this month’s Dundalk Municipal District meeting he said had been satisfied with the detailed breakdown of the waiting list provided by the council’s housing department, but had also requested similar information on allocations. At

Cllr Shane McGuinness. that meeting, councillors were told that around 60% of available social housing was allocated through the Choice Based Letting system, generally to eligible applicants who had spent the longest time on the waiting list. They also heard that some homes were allocated outside that system because of particular needs, including disability requirements and mentalhealth supports. Cllr McGuinness renewed his request at the September Louth County Council meeting, where he said elected members of Dublin City Coun-

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cil received detailed figures for social housing allocations made in 2025 and during the year to date in 2026. “I would kindly request that I, and/or Louth county councillors, get this data now so we can have these figures to hand if asked for them and off course for transparency reasons,” he told the meeting. “We need data and a full understanding of what types of housing we are building and whether these units are most suitable for our housing needs and then, we can work out the root cause of why it is broken.” He added citizens of Ireland from any nationality are welcome on the housing list, but he believes an argument/discussion needs to be had about the means of Irish citizenship with regards to housing and many other areas of society. He also welcomed Mr Murphy’s response saying it was “good news and shows we can be transparent within the housing section.”

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Dundalk Leader Local Democracy Reports By LAUREN ROSS l lauren@dundalkleader.com

‘Someone has to step up’ Louth home repair grants Calls to remove boat from Carlingford Harbour FISHERMEN who went to help when a neighbouring boat began sinking in Carlingford Harbour may have prevented serious pollution in the lough, the September meeting of Louth County Council has heard. The crew of Wings of the Morning were thanked for securing the boat, as councillors asked who would remove a vessel they said had been in the harbour for around six years, and who would pay the bill. Cllr Fiona Mhic Conchoille (SF) said the fishermen had acted to protect the clean water on which their livelihood depended and asked whether the council had a plan to deal with the situation if the crew had not stepped in. Thanking them, she said their actions had potentially prevented “what could have been a serious environmental incident in Carlingford Harbour”. She also wanted an update on what would happen to the boat now, a question taken up by Cllr Antóin Watters (SF), who said he had raised concerns about the vessel with Louth County Council and the Loughs Agency in 2024 but he said it was unclear who was responsible for the problem. “This is not a new problem,” he said.

Cllr Antóin Watters. “I was told during a meeting a couple of months ago we had a harbour master. Now I believe we don’t have a harbour master,” he said. “Someone has to step up and take responsibility for this because at the end of the day, Louth County Council in my eyes are over it and it is not good enough to just pass the book to someone else.”. Cllr Mhic Conchoille suggested speaking to officials in Waterford saying an official there had contacted her about a similar problem involving the same owner, and that they had managed to

get the boat in that case out of the water. She understood they were now trying to recover the costs and offered to pass on the contact details. A council official agreed that the situation in Carlingford was unacceptable, saying, “The issue of the boats in Carlingford is absolutely unsatisfactory”. “We appreciate the efforts of the local fishermen to what could have been a really nasty pollution incident there,” he continued. The official said the council did not have the power to inspect the boats’ structure and that this was a matter for the Marine Survey Office. The council was continuing to pursue the owners to have the boat removed and the official said it was his understanding repairs were going to be carried out the previous day but the council were still waiting on an update. “We have been and we will be in contact with them about the issues,” the official said. “It is an ongoing process and we had a meeting with An Garda Siochana last week and they’re also assisting with information on it.” After Cllr Watters questioned who was responsible, the official agreed to arrange a meeting with the bodies involved “in the next week or so” to clarify the position.

Call for Louth’s emergency support centre locations to be published

LOUTH County Council has begun buying emergency generators to keep community facilities running during prolonged power cuts, but residents still need to know where they can go if a storm leaves them without electricity for several days, according to Cllr Marianne Butler (GP). She first raised the issue several months ago, and returned to it at the council’s September meeting, where she drew attention to the new storm names announced and asked for details of Louth’s Community Support Centres

to be made public. “We’re just waiting for them to arrive and hopefully they don’t have severe impacts on us, but that information needs to be out there so that, if people need help, they know where to go,” she told the meeting. Clare County Council was held up as an example of what could be done, having published an online list giving the location and Eircode of each designated centre, along with practical details such as whether it has charging points, Wi-Fi, toilets, showers

or kitchen facilities. The centres are part of a wider effort to make communities better prepared following Storm Éowyn, when power, water and communications were cut off in parts of the country. They are not intended as overnight accommodation but community halls, sports clubs and other suitable buildings can be opened for set hours, giving people somewhere to charge a phone, get online, use basic facilities and find out what help is available.

closed to new non-emergency applications until new year OLDER people and people with disabilities seeking financial help to repair or adapt their homes face a wait until the new year to apply for grants in Louth, unless their cases qualify for emergency consideration, the county council has said. The position was confirmed after Sinn Féin Cllr Pearse McGeough asked whether applications would reopen for work on windows, doors, heating systems, electrical wiring and other repairs. Speaking at the council’s September meeting, he raised concerns about people approaching the colder months in homes where the heating needed attention. The repairs he described are among those covered by the means-tested Housing Aid for Older People Scheme, which offers eligible applicants up to €10,700 for essential work. The restrictions also cover Housing Adaptation Grants for People with a Disability and Mobility Aids Grants, which help fund changes such as accessible bathrooms, ramps and stairlifts. “I’m concerned about people living in old houses,” Cllr McGeough said, questioning whether heat pumps were suitable for some of the properties where heating was being upgraded. While describing heat pumps as “a great way of dealing with the problem”, he also questioned how residents were supposed to find refurbished oil or gas boilers when seeking grant assistance. “I fail to understand where you get these reconditioned boilers for

Cllr Pearse McGeough. gas or oil,” he said, acknowledging that the council was working within rules set elsewhere. Under rules introduced on 1st January, 2025, Housing Aid for Older People funding no longer covers new standalone oil or gas boilers, except where applications had already been received and approved before that date. Repairs to existing boilers and the purchase and installation of second-hand replacements by qualified contractors can still qualify, alongside other eligible heating work, including radiators and pipework. The change followed European rules on public funding for fossilfuel boilers. Responding to Cllr McGeough, a council official said staff were concentrating on getting existing grant-funded work completed and drawing down the available funding before the end of the year. “They remain closed at the moment, aside from the Priority 1 applications,” the official said. “At the moment the grants won’t be opening again until the new year, the same as we did this year.”

The council paused general applications on 1st May, saying demand had already committed a significant proportion of its funding. Priority 1 cases can still be considered individually, subject to funding, including cases involving terminal illness, someone being primarily dependent on a carer or family member, or adaptations needed to allow someone to leave hospital or residential care. “We have been drawing down more money in the past couple of years,” the official told the meeting, explaining that the council was making grant offers above its annual allocation because some applicants would not complete their work in time to claim payment that year. “The funding has gone up and we have offered it out,” the official said. “We are conscious that some people won’t have the opportunity to get the work done before the end of the year, so that’s the focus at the moment.” On replacement oil and gas boilers, the official acknowledged the difficulty of finding refurbished units but said the council had to apply the funding rules. “I hear your concerns about the boiler systems but unfortunately that is because of the directive we have to implement,” the official said. “We can only offer a grant for a refurbished boiler. “It is very challenging for some people to source that, absolutely, because there’s only so many out there and so many available and it’s a challenge arising from the new directive we have to match.”

Clarity sought on return of Carlingford Ferry LOUTH County Council have been asked to provide clarity on the future of the Carlingford Lough Ferry, with Cllr John Reilly (FG) saying any return would need to happen early enough to benefit from next year’s tourist season. The Greenore-toGreencastle ferry has not operated during 2026, and its private operator has not announced when

sailings will resume. Raising the issue at the September meeting of Louth County Council, Cllr Reilly said this year’s tourist season was “effectively over.” “If the ferry is to operate and get a proper run again, you would need the ferry up and running from the spring,” he said. Council officials said they could not comment on the plans of a private

company. However, members were told that Failte Ireland will carry out a feasibility study and economic assessment of a “Loop of the Lough” tourism concept. This is funded under the Shared Ireland Initiative aimed at supporting tourism in the area and builds on initial work commissioned by Louth County Council in 2025 of a ‘Loop of the Lough’

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tourism product concept to link key attractions on both sides of Carlingford Lough. The official said the provision of the ferry service may be covered within that study which is now underway, but stressed it was “not just about the ferry”. The meeting heard that a draft report was expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

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Oriel Traditional Orchestra and Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí awarded PEACEPLUS funding for ambitious Narrow Water Music Project ORIEL Traditional Orchestra and Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí are delighted to announce that they have been awarded €96,680 in PEACEPLUS funding for the Narrow Water Music Project, an ambitious 18-month cross-border, intergenerational music project bringing together musicians and young people from Counties Down, Louth, Armagh, Monaghan and Meath. Led by Oriel Traditional Orchestra, in partnership with Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí and its children’s choir, Cór na nÓg, the project will use music to celebrate the new Narrow Water Bridge and the deep cultural, historical and musical connections between south Ulster and North Leinster. Over the course of the project, Cór na nÓg will work alongside Oriel’s intergenerational orchestra to explore the musical and cultural heritage of the Oriel region through shared heritage and creative workshops in south Ulster and north Leinster. At the heart of the project will be the creation of a new musical work for traditional orchestra and children’s choir, inspired by the Narrow Water Bridge and the shared song, music and history of the region. Dr. Philip McGuinness, Chair of Oriel Traditional Orchestra, said: “We are delighted to receive PEACEPLUS support for the Narrow Water Music Project and are particularly pleased to be working with Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí and Cór

Oriel Traditional Orchestra will partner with Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí and its children’s choir Cór na nÓg to celebrate the Narrow Water Bridge and the links between S. Ulster and N. Leinster.

na nÓg. Oriel has a wonderfully rich musical tradition which does not stop at the border. The opening of the Narrow Water Bridge gives us a very special opportunity to celebrate and reinvigorate the rich musical heritage of this area, and to create new relationships between communities on both sides of Carlingford Lough. “Leis an droichead nua, beidh nasc fisiciúil ann den chéad uair idir Lú agus an Dún. Tá súil againn go dtabharfaidh an tionscadal spreagúil seo daoine ó gach cúlra níos gaire dá Chéile agus go dtabharfaidh sé tuiscint níos doimhne acu ar oidhreacht shaibhir chultúrtha an cheantair.” Professor Eibhlís Farrell, ViceChair of Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí, said: “This project has a particular per-

sonal resonance for me. Having established Music at Dundalk Institute of Technology in 2002 it is wonderful, almost 25 years later, to have the opportunity to partner once again with former colleagues who are now involved in Oriel Traditional Orchestra. “The musical heritage of Oriel is extraordinarily rich, and I am particularly excited that this project will bring that repertoire and tradition into the musical lives of children in Rostrevor. The new Narrow Water Bridge is creating a physical connection between Louth and Down; through this project we want to create a musical and cultural connection to accompany it – one which we hope will endure for many years.” Denis Brady Vice Chair of the Narrow Water Bridge Community

Network commented: “Congratulations to the team at Cultúrlann Caisleán Ruairí. A lot of hard work has culminated in getting this Peaceplus funding. We at the Narrow Water Bridge Community Network are looking forward to this connection between Louth and Down, ticking the box of greater sustainable co-operation going forward” The project will culminate in two public performances – one in County Louth and one in County Down – at which the newly created work will be performed. The partnership is also intended to extend beyond the funded project, with Oriel Traditional Orchestra and Cór na nÓg committing to future cross-border performances, repertoire sharing and collaborative cultural activity.

Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Club invites new members

Notices can be dropped into our offices 9a Crowe Street, Dundalk advertising@dundalkleader.com COPY DEADLINE: MONDAYS 5pm

DUNDALK Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Club is calling on fit and active people to consider taking up scuba diving and joining one of the area’s most established underwater clubs as the new training season approaches with an initial Try A Dive experience in Aura Swimming Pool on both Wednesday 7th and 14th October. The club currently has 51 active members and offers two distinct but closely connected aspects of diving: search and recovery, and recreational diving. While the search and recovery side reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to assisting in emergency and specialist underwater work when required, the recreational element gives members the opportunity to enjoy diving throughout the year in a safe, social and supportive environment. Recreational diving takes place mainly in Carlingford Lough, with longer weekend trips organised to some of Ireland’s best-known diving destinations, including Donegal, Antrim, Kerry and Sligo. These

outings give members the chance to explore a wide variety of underwater environments, while also building confidence, skills and camaraderie within the club. The club’s Diving Officer, Finbarr Dillon, is a founding member and has played a key role in the development and continued success of the club over the years. Under his guidance, members are encouraged to progress steadily through training and gain experience in a structured and enjoyable setting. This year has already been a successful one for the club, with five divers achieving their 2-star diving accreditation with the CFT. CFT, the Comhairle Fo-Thuinn, is the Irish Underwater Council and the national governing body for scuba diving in Ireland. It oversees training, standards and qualifications for divers across the country, helping ensure that diving is carried out safely and to a recognised standard. The club is now particularly keen to hear from people who are interested in joining when the new training season begins. No previ-

ous diving experience is necessary, but applicants should be reasonably fit, active and willing to commit to learning the skills involved in safe diving. Training runs over 10 weeks and includes pool sessions at Aura Swimming Pool, along with a lecture series covering the theory and practical knowledge needed by new divers. The programme is designed to give trainees a strong foundation before they move on to open-water diving. For those who join, the benefits extend beyond the diving itself. Membership offers the chance to learn a valuable new skill, keep fit, meet new people and become part of a close-knit club with a strong sense of teamwork and local pride. Whether the goal is to dive recreationally or to progress further within the sport, the club provides support at every stage. Anyone interested in booking a slot is asked to contact Joe at Joewaite74@hotmail.com. Limited availability. Over 18s only.

Case adjourned for woman facing drug charges A DUNDALK woman who faced a number of charges in relation to drugs offences, had her case adjourned until October 21st when she appeared at Dundalk District Court. Marlene Passet (37) of Slieve Foy Park, Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, appeared before Judge Nicola Andrews after being found with diamorphine at two separate locations on January 12th this year. The court heard the defendant was charged with possession of the drug and possession for sale or supply at Dundalk Garda Station, The Crescent. She was faced similar charges relating to an incident at Marsh South, Blackrock, on the dame day. She was also charged with possession of zopicione and possession for sale or supply of the drug at Marsh South, Blackrock, on the same date.

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026

Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan brings Gaelscoileanna together for special blitz THERE was plenty of sport and laughter at Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan this week as pupils from Scoil Aonghusa in Drogheda, Scoil Rois in Carrickmacross and Gaelscoil Dhún Dealgan came together for a special Blitz. The day was all about giving young people from across Louth and Monaghan the chance to meet, make new friends and most importantly, enjoy using Irish naturally outside the classroom. Students from Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan played a big part in the day, working alongside their teachers to organise activities and welcome the visiting pupils. It was a great opportunity for the younger pupils to chat with students already attending the Gaelcholáiste and get a taste of life in an Irishmedium secondary school. Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan is the only Irish-medium secondary school within a 60-kilometre radius and offers co-educational, multi-denominational education through Irish. The school offers a broad range of subjects including Music, Spanish, French, Visual Art, Home Economics, Science, Business Studies and Geography. While three local Gaelscoileanna attended the Blitz, pupils do not have to come from a Gaelscoil to attend Gaelcho-

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Students from Gaelcholáiste took part in the blitz

Students also worked alongside teachers to help organise the blitz.

láiste Dhún Dealgan. Almost a quarter of the school’s current students came from Englishmedium primary schools. With immersion, encouragement and ongoing support, students build their confidence in speaking and learning through Irish. Registration for 1st Year 20272028 will start from 1st October. Please see Registration/ Clarú section of the school website www.gcdd.ie for full details.

One simple message summed up the day: “Is teanga bheo í agus is libhse í” Irish is a living language, and it belongs to you. For Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan, days like this are about much more than sport. They are about bringing young people together, building friendships and showing them that Gaeilge is something you can use and enjoy right here in Dundalk.

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212 RANGER RAPTOR 2.0 T/D AUTOMATIC TOP OF THE RANGE—A STUNNER! €39,500

231 PEUGOT PARTNER ACTIVE PLUS 1.5T/D SWB, CHOICE OF 2 ONE OWNER VANS €14,950 PLUS VAT

222 PEUGOT BOXER 330 SWB 2.2 T/D CHOICE OF 2 ONE OWNER VANS €13,750 PLUS VAT

212 KIA CEED 1.6 T/D K2 2 SEAT CAR VAN CHOICE OF 2 ONE OWNER VANS €11,500 PLUS VAT

211 CUSTOM 280 SWB 2.0 130PS HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 55000KMS €17,950 PLUS VAT

211 CUSTOM SWB TREND 2.0 T/D 130PS PARK ASSIST BLUETOOTH CRUISE CONTROL €16,250 PLUS VAT

202 CUSTOM TREND 2.0 T/D 130PS ONE OWNER FULL FORD SERVICE HISTORY €14,500 PLUS VAT

191 TRANSIT 350 2.0 130PS 2 TONNE VAN 202 CUSTOM TREND 2.0 T/D 130PS LWB NEW FORD ENGINE FITTED BY BYRNE & MAGUIRE ONE OWNER FULL FORD SERVICE HISTORY €15,500 PLUS VAT €12,250 PLUS VAT TRADE IN WELCOME FINANCE ARRANGED

www.byrneandmaguire.ie 042 933 1171

231 CUSTOM TREND 2.0 130PS LWB FACELIFT MODEL FULLY PLYLINED €20,750 PLUS VAT

Dundalk Leader 30th September 2026