30-12-2020

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Dundalk Tidy Towns New Project Page 6

Christina's search for Lusitania relatives

Schools show Christmas spirit

Page 9

Page 10

Wednesday, 30th December, 2020. Vol. 13, Issue 52 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Traders end tough year on a high

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

By Paul Byrne

The toughest of years for local traders was given a late lift thanks to the huge success of the Shop Local Gift Voucher scheme. More than ever the scheme, which is run by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, needed to be a success this year and so it proved with record sales of over €1m given a boost to local businesses in the town.

A statement from Chamber President Sean Farrell thanked the local business community for getting behind the scheme as well as the many consumers who used them during the busy Christmas period.

Continued on Page 2

Crosscause bring Gulliver to Blackrock beach A busy year for the local Crosscause Charity ended with their traditional fundraiser on Blackrock Beach on St Stephen’s Day to help raise money for projects in Romania and Ghana.

The local community have always been great supporters of Conor Hughes' long-running charity and this year was no different as witnessed by two full lorry loads of donations making their way to Romania in time for Christmas last month.

The charity’s year ended with some fun on the beach as a giant Gulliver was put into quarantine on Blackrock beach.

Pat McCormick (immediate past President) Michael Gaynor (Past President) Sean Farrell President Thomas McDonagh, Treasurer and Paddy Malone PRO.

Full Story Page 2

Traders end tough year on a high Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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From page 1 “We are delighted to announce that sales of the Shop Local Gift Vouchers have hit an unbelievable record of €1 million worth of Shop Local Gift Vouchers sold in 2020. That brings total sales to over €4 million since their launch, an unbelievable amount in

such a short period of time.

Dundalk Chamber started this initiative over 5 years ago and they have been an unmitigated success. There was a huge effort put in by the Chamber to help local retail and this voucher scheme has given local retailers a welcome boost,” stated Sean.

He then went on to thank the business community of Dundalk for getting behind this scheme and buying the vouchers for their staff this Christmas. Sean mentioned “these sales would not have happened if it has not been for the good will of the business community who see the value in keeping money

in the locality. Stopping the flow of money from the town has been our priority.”

Sean also thanked members of the public who bought the vouchers and kept it local this Christmas.

Sean commented that “this initiative was set up to help keep money and protect local jobs within the lo-

cal economy. The Chamber plan is to grow sales even more in 2021!”

Paddy Malone PRO of Dundalk Chamber commented on the vouchers saying they give the receiver “the gift of choice as they can be spent in Toy Shops, Supermarkets, Restaurants, Hair Salons, Gift Stores,

Gyms, Beauticians, Clothes shops, and much more- you will be amazed with the selection of businesses now redeeming them which includes over 350 shops all around Dundalk and surrounding areas. “The vouchers now come in a €5 denomination as well as €10, €20 and €50’s. They are an

ideal gift all year round for Birthdays, Weddings, Communions, Confirmations, Competitions, Retirements and staff rewards.

Paddy mentioned that the “beauty of these vouchers is that they do not expire, and the shops get the full amount back. They do not lose value over time,” noted Paddy.

Crosscause fund-raiser brings Gulliver to Blackrock A 25-foot giant was on show on Blackrock Beach, this St Stephen’s Day as part of the annual Cross Cause Charity Fundraiser. The giant named “Gulliver” arrived in Blackrock the day after Christmas and was put under immediate quarantine under COVID19 restrictions.

Charity organiser Conor Hughes is renowned for organising spectacular and sometimes comical events “Gulliver” arrived in Blackrock on St Stephen's Day. every St Stephen’s Day from Charlie Chaplin strictions this year we he is going to swan in lookalikes to frolicking wants to do something here in the middle of a penguins to stacks of pi- lower key to keep every- pandemic - he has ananos 50 foot high. “With one safe” said Hughes. other thing coming”.

The Crosscause Charall of the COVID19 re- “But if that giant thinks

ity founded by Conor has projects ongoing in Ghana and Romania where two 40-foot containers ar-

rived with donations from Ireland just two weeks ago. Details can be found on www.cross cause.ie.

Residential care facilities to receive vaccine locally from 12th January The first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine was issued yesterday to a 79-year old grandmother of ten in St James Hospital.

The next few months will see many more people across the country receive the vaccine with people in long term care facilities and frontline workers head of the queue. Residents in St Oliver Plunkett Hospital in Dundalk will be the first group locally to receive the vaccine on either the 19th or 20th of January.

Dundalk man Professor Brian MacCraith, who is chair of the Government’s vaccine rollout taskforce, believes it’s “very possible” that vaccinations will be rolled out in all nursing homes by the end of February while everybody in the country who wanted one would have one by August. Speaking yesterday on Morning Ireland he said: “Although it’s impossible to be absolutely precise one very positive scenario modelled by the taskforce show Ireland would be receiving an average of 530,000 doses of the vaccine by August.

“And we’d be ready to deploy those vaccines,” he said.

“So I think certainly if all things come to pass one would be looking at that stage of being very close or at the point of closing out the actual vaccination of as much of the population of Ireland that want the vaccine.”

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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Two stabbing incidents in Dundalk on Christmas Day

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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Dundalk Credit Union Draw Aine O’Reilly, Willow Grove, winner of the VW T Cross car in the Dundalk Credit Union Car Draw with Frankie Watters of Dundalk Credit Union and Brendan Cumiskey of Gerry Cumiskey Main VW Dealer at the hand over.

Gardaí are continuing investigations following two stabbing incidents in Dundalk on Christmas Day. A statement from Gardaí confirmed that one arrest was made for one of the incidents while enquiries are ongoing in the second.

“Gardaí attended the scene of an alleged assault in the Castleross area of Dundalk on Friday 25th December

(Christmas Day) at approximately 11.15pm.

One man, aged in his 20s, was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for treatment of his injuries. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening. No arrests have been made.

Enquiries ongoing.

“Gardaí attended the scene of an alleged assault in the Saltown area of Dundalk yesterday, 25th December 2020 at

approximately 9.50pm.

A woman was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for treatment of her injuries following the incident. Her injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

“One arrest of a female in her 40s has been made in relation to the assault in Saltown and she appeared before the CCJ on 26th December 2020,” read the statement.

Ruairí O’Murchú reacts to the Brexit deal Senior officials from both Britain and the EU have praised their negotiators for securing a Brexit deal which was sealed on Christmas Eve. The deal centred around a Trade and Co-operation Agrement which will come into force on January 1st 2021.

However, local TD Ruairí O’Murchú has stated that the deal will be bad for Ireland and have huge implications for business, agriculture and fishing.

Reacting to the news of a Brexit deal, Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú said: ‘Brexit, no matter how it was done, was always going to be bad for Ireland, but Britain leaving without a deal would have been catastrophic.

‘The details of this 2,000 page document remain to be seen and people need to remember that even with this

Ruairí O’Murchú, TD. agreement, there will still be huge implications for business, agriculture and fishing.

‘What we don’t need is multiple re-negotiations on this deal.

What we do need is for the British to stick to their word and for the mitigations in the Irish protocol to be fully respected. The fishing industry also needs to

be protected as far as possible.

‘In recent days, we have seen the difficult situation that has been thrown up because of the restrictions at the French border due to fears about the new Covid strains. That has given us a preview of the logistical difficulties in relation to the land bridge’.

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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1—Who invented jeans?

2—What does ‘E’ represent in E = MC²?

3—Who shot and killed Billy the Kid in 1881?

4—In which war was Agent Orange used by the USA? 5—What year did Dundalk politician Thomas Bellew get elected to Dáil Éireann?

6—In which ocean are the Canary Islands?

7—Which was the first European country to give all women the vote?

8—What year did the Louth Senior Football team last play a game in the Athletic Grounds in Dundalk?

Peter Fitzpatrick raises concerns over COVID test centre in Ardee

9—How many strings does a ukelele have?

10—Which US organisation’s headquarters is situated in Langley, Virginia?

The Stinker—“Auld Lang Syne” is the song most associated with New Year’s Eve. What does ‘Auld Land Syne’ mean?

—this week’s answers—

Independent TD Peter Fitzpatrick has raised the issue of the location of a Covid test centre in Ardee in the Dáil. According to Deputy Fitzpatrick there has been a sharp spike of cases in Ardee since the test centre opened in the town in October.

“I raise the issue of the location of the Covid-19 test centres around the country, in particular the test centre in Ardee, County Louth. The Covid test centre in Ardee was opened in October of this year. It has the capacity to carry out 3,500 Covid tests per week. It operates with a six-lane capacity and can operate on a seven days a week basis when needed. I visited the site shortly before it opened and I must say it is a fabulous facility and very well staffed.

“At the time, as the Taoiseach knows, I raised concerns about the loca-

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD. tion of the test centre. I was concerned at the time that it was unwise to bring a testing centre to the Ardee area and I felt that we could be bringing the virus into the area. At the time, Ardee had one of the lowest rates of Covid in the country and, very often, it was recording cases of few-

1—Levi Strauss, 2—Energy, 3—Pat Garrett, 4—Vietnam, 5—1982, 6—Atlantic Ocean, 7—Finland, 8—1959, 9—Four, 10—CIA. The Stinker: For old times’ sake.

Bus Éireann, alongside Transport for Ireland are delighted to announce significant service enhancements across many of its routes.

When you need to make an essential journey, visit buseireann.ie or transportforireland.ie for service details.

Bus Éireann and the TFI public transport network continue to operate services at reduced capacity under current public health restrictions and Government advice is that public transport should be avoided unless the travel is essential.

er than five per 100,000.

“Unfortunately, Ardee now has one of the highest rates of incidence in the country, with the latest figures showing a rate of 205 cases per 100,000 when the national average is 80 cases per 100,000. I am not saying that the huge surge in cases is a direct result of the testing centre, but it is something that needs further investigation. We need to look at other testing centres around the country to see if any trend has emerged, like a sharp spike in Covid cases in those areas.

“Unfortunately, my fear has been proved right on this occasion. It is important now that we find out exactly why there has been such a spike in cases in Ardee and, indeed, other cases around the country where test centres have been located. I know from speaking to many locals in

the Ardee area that they feel that people visiting the test centre are also visiting the local shopping centre, which could be a cause of the spike in cases. It is also being said that people are arriving at the test centre early and are being asked to return later. In the meantime, they are visiting the local shops, which again could explain the huge rise in cases.

It is not about blaming anybody. It is about finding the causes of the huge spikes and dealing with that. Will the Taoiseach confirm if it is the case that the location of test centres is indeed contributing to sharp increases in Covid cases in the immediate vicinity? Is Ardee an isolated case or is this a common occurrence in areas with test centres?,” asked Deputy Fitzpatrick.

In response to Deputy Fitzpatrick’s question An

Taoiseach Michael Martin pledged to raise the issue with the Chief Medical Officer as well as HSE officials.

“As yet, there has been no indication of a correlation between the location of testing centres and a higher incidence of Covid-19. I will ask the Chief Medical Officer to consider this and I will check with the HSE about facilities for visitors at the site itself. People generally tend to arrive and leave again, but I will ask the HSE to take the Deputy’s concerns about protocols on board.

“I have no doubt that the issues raised by the Deputy have been articulated to him by local residents.

This is therefore a concern in the area. I will talk to the Chief Medical Officer and the HSE and ask for a response to the Deputy on those issues,” stated An Taoiseach.

Dundalk Tidy Towns launches new sustainability project

Tidy Towns volunteers with their NoButts Bins to collect cigarette butts for recycling.

Just before Christmas Dundalk Tidy Towns launched a new sustainability project in Dundalk Town Centre to collect and recycle cigarette butts.

New bins have been installed around the town centre to collect cigarette butts for recycling. An Irish company, nobutts.ie, was selected to install the bins and recycle the cigarette litter.

This is an important element of our work to keep Dundalk a tidy town and to prepare for the arrival of the adjudicators for Ireland’s Best Kept Town competition in May 2021 for which Dundalk has been nominated.

Cigarette butts make up 50% of litter in Ireland and when they make their way into the sea, can poison marine habitats.

Already NoButts.ie have collected over 130,000 cigarette butts in Ireland for recycling.

The plastic from the butts is treated to remove harmful chemicals and recycled into many items including frames for glasses.

For more information contact dundalktidytowns@gmail.com or visit nobutts.ie.

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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New Bubble Buddies Councillors ask for drug money initiative launched to be used to combat addiction The increase in COVID19 restrictions is causing concerns that some groups such as single adult households, single parent households, those living with a person who is health compromised, those living alone with mental health challenges and people with disabilities living alone may be particularly at risk if their support bubble has to withdraw due to a COVID diagnosis, being a close contact of a positive COVID case or perhaps heightened restrictions will limit their ability to provide that support.

Louth Volunteer Centre is assisting Louth County Council and Louth Community Call Forum in addressing these concerns by mobilising and supporting volunteers to act as “Bubble Buddies” to help isolated and/or vulnerable people to get the support they need in a way that helps minimise the spread of the virus. The Volunteer Centre team are cur-

rently seeking individuals or households from all across the County that are interested in volunteering to become part of a support bubble for a person or family in the above categories, particularly in the postChristmas phase.

Bubble Buddies will provide practical supports such as shopping, light garden or household tasks, dog walking, going for a walk with the person(s) they are supporting. This is a short-term support related specifically to COVID19 restrictions.

Bubble Buddies commit to restricting their own social interactions for

the period they are providing supports. Volunteers will be given training and supports by the Louth Volunteer Centre team in addition to the referring agency.

If you or your family are interested in becoming a Bubble Buddy contact the Louth Volunteer Centre team at info@ volunteerlouth.ie, on social media @volunteerlouth or you can find out more information or apply on their website www.volunteerlouth. ie. Their offices will be closed for the Christmas period however they are returning on the 4th January and can be reached then at 0419809008.

At July 2020’s Joint Policing Committee Meeting Independent Cllr Paddy McQuillan enquired from Louth’s Chief Superintendent Christy Mangan what exactly happens to the monies that the Gardai seize from drug and drug trafficking in the County. Chief Superintendent Mangan stated that all monies confiscated are directly given to Revenue. Cllr McQuillan asked if it was possible that this money could be redirected to services and organisations in Louth that are combating addiction, Chief Mangan stated that he would like to see this happen.

The Independent Cllr said “Fergus O’ Dowd was at the meeting and as a member of the government I asked him to speak with Minister for Justice Helen Mc Entee to see if it was possible to have these funds redirected back to the services that need them. Initially Minister McEntee

Independent Councillors Paddy McQuillan and Maeve Yore with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.

appeared open to the idea but no progress has been made since then.

My fellow Independent Cllr Maeve Yore and I decided to see if we could push this incentive a little and we both got the full support of Chief Supt Mangan.”

A Joint Motion by Independent Cllrs Mc Quillan and Yore was submitted to December’s full Louth County Council Meeting requesting provision where monies confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Legislation be

redirected from central Government back into local addiction services, Youth and Community Organisations and Initiatives to combat the effect of addiction in local communities and all necessary legislation changed immediately to allow this vital funding support to happen. “Although primarily raised as a local initiative Cllr Yore and I both believed that this needed to be highlighted and worked on nationally” said Paddy.

Cllr Yore contin-

ues “Through our Independents Support Network we contacted Independent Councillors around the country requesting that they submit our Motion. The response has been phenomenal and it shows that addiction services and organisations around the country are badly in need of additional funding and support. We also received support from Independent Senators Keogan and Craughwell and Twelve Independent Colleagues from Don-

Santa visits at Monastery N.S.

egal, Sligo, Clare, Galway, Tipperary, Meath, Monaghan, Kildare, Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford, Cork have submitted and some have passed the Motion in their respective councils“ stated Cllr Yore.

“What began as a local issue now seems to be a national initiative.

Services in Louth that help individuals and their families suffering from addiction need this injection of funding. We realise that legislation needs to be changed to make this happen but this government has shown many times that they can change and bring in new legislation when they need it. There needs to be a political will and commitment to make this happen. As Independent Councillors, on a national level as well as local, we will continue to lobby Minister McEntee to look into how they can make this possible” Cllr McQuillan concluded.”

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

Christine hoping to erect a memorial for locals lost on The Lusitania

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oDundalk woman .Christine Larkin is thoping to get in touch dwith relatives of local gmen who perished on sthe Lusitania ship after eit sank on May 7th 1915 nwhen torpedoed by a oGerman submarine. t Christine has spent syears trying to gather tinformation about her dgrandfather James nLarkin who was one of a enumber of local men on lthe ship the night it sank. tChristine has discovered sthat her grandfather -worked in the engine lroom of the Lusitania as la greaser. James grew up -in Rathcor, Riverstown kin North Louth and ewas living in Liverpool -working as a marine fireman before he began

his job in the engine room of the Lusitania.

The ship was twelve miles off the coast of Kinsale when it was torpedoed by the Germans who suspected that the ship was full of ammunition. Within 20 minutes, the vessel sank into the Celtic Sea. Of 1,959 passengers and crew, 1,198 people were drowned.

According to Christine at least seven engineering crew were from the Dundalk area.

She is now hoping to make contact with relatives of those men who died on the Lusitania with the hope of forming a committee to erect some sort of memorial in North Louth

in their honour.

Below is a list of the crew members with local roots.

1—Owen McCann,B 1885. Trimmer Son of Patrick and Catherine McCann, Glenmore, Riverstown 2—Bartholomew McCarthy.

Marine Fireman. B 1861 54 years (Bartle) Born Wexford.

3—Michael McCann.

B. 1890. Age 25 Son of Joseph & Bridget McCann (maybe Ravensdale) 4—Francis McAteer, B Liverpool 1882. Age 33. Fireman. Son of Francis and Mary mc Ateer. Married Mary Donald in 1903 and lived at 33 Charlotte St,

Warrenpoint, Co. Down.

5—Peter McBride Unmarried.. B. 1860 Ravensdale. Trimmer.

Age 55. Son of Patrick and Mary McBride.

6—Christopher Evans Mcconkey. B 1853 07/08. , Hillsborough, Co. Down. Son of Bessie & John. Married Annie Peirce, Dublin. 9 children. Age 62.

7—James Hoey. Born Duleek 1882. Trimmer Age 23 son of John & Rose Hoey. Resided with grandmother 4 Mary Street, Dundalk .

Anybody who would like to discuss the idea of creating a memorial to the local men who perished on the Lusitania can contact Christine on 0831161297.

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

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Local Students Show Christmas Spirit

St Vincent’s students show Christmas spirit with fundraisers for local charities There is no doubt that most people will be glad to see the back of 2020, but as this very difficult year draws to a close the Christmas Spirit is alive and well in St. Vincent’s school as a number of highly successful fundraising activities have taken place.

Students from Transition Year class TYB organised a raffle for a Pamper Hamper, filled with all sorts of luxury items, the donations from which will go to the

Dundalk Women’s Aid. As part of their religion classes the girls learned how the need for support for victims of domestic abuse has risen dramatically. When compared to this time last year the figures for those relying on Dundalk Women’s Aid has seen a sharp increase and the girls felt they wanted to respond to this need.

Meanwhile, TYA were busy organising hampers of sweet treats for the local front line

workers. They contacted local food chains and supermarkets to help put together the delicious selection of goodies to help workers through their long shifts in the fight against COVID 19.

Representatives from Our Lady of Lourdes, St.Brigid’s in Ardee, a staff member from the COVID test centre and members of Dundalk Garda Siochana came to the school to collect their gifts.

Fundraising for St.

Vincent de Paul is always supported in St.Vincent’s school and this year was no exception. Fifth years took part in the Step Into Christmas challenge, where a group of girls walked the equivalent distance it takes to reach the peak of Mount Everest.

Another group of Transition Year students along with some fifth years took part in a 24 hour fast to raise much needed funds for St Vincent de Paul. As hunger

De La Salle music teacher, Ms. Campbell along with her talented students brought some festive cheer to the residents of Dealgan Nursing Home recently with a “Concert Through the Window”.

The second year “Lifeskills” class prepared gift boxes for the residents kindly donated by parents and staff in De La Salle. These were presented after the concert.

is something they never truly experience, they wanted to get a better understanding of the difficulties others face daily. They believe that small actions by a lot of people can truly make a difference. Those wishing to donate or get involved can still do so by following this link: h t t p s : / / w w w. s v p . ie/get-involved/doyour-own-fundraising/ current-fundraisers/ fundraisers/bernadettewhite-(tyb).aspx.

Transition year students give hampers to local frontline workers.

St Mary’s 5th year LCA class organised a beep test for staff and students. This enabled them to raise money for the North Louth Hospice. We are very proud of their hard work.

St Louis 6th Year Art Students raise €200 for Breast Cancer Ireland.

€200 raised by three St Louis TY students for Simon.

€440 raised

by Sarah, Zara and Éadaoin for Women’s Aid Dundalk and SOSAD Dundalk.

St Louis 6th Year Art Students raise €200 for Doras.

St Louis 6th Year Art Students raise €200 for Shine.

€500 raised

by St Louis TY students for Team Hope Ireland.

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

Local athletes excel despite challenging year in track and field 2020 was an unusual year for sportspeople throughout the world.

The athletes of County Louth were no exception, as the indoor track and field season was terminated abruptly in March, the outdoor track and field season was restricted to a handful of competitions – mainly in late summer and early autumn – and only a few cross country events and road races were staged during the year.

Nevertheless, there were several excellent

Gina Akpe-Moses.

performances by athletes from the county in 2020, as the majority sought to take full advantage of the limited

competition opportunities available to them.

Highlights during the indoor season earlier in 2020 included the performances of three women in the 60m, all of whom dipped under the 8 seconds barrier.

Gina Akpe-Moses (Blackrock AC) led the way with a stunning victory at the Katrīnas Kauss Meet in the Latvian town of Kuldīga in January. Her time of 7.37 seconds was a personal best (PB) and a new Louth record.

Patience Jumbo Gula (Dundalk St Gerard’s AC) equalled her PB with a clocking of 7.44 seconds at the National Senior Indoor Championships in the National Indoor Arena (NIA) in Dublin in March, while Sophie Gartland (Ace AC) ran 7.93 seconds at the Leinster U20 Indoor Championships at the same venue in February.

Kate O’Connor (Dundalk St Gerard’s AC) set two PBs during 2020, both of which also im-

proved her own Louth records. She recorded 8.88 seconds for the 60m Hurdles at the English Indoor Combined Events’ Championships in Sheffield in January and then registered 13.84m for the Shot Putt at the Athletics Ireland Field Events’ Festival in Santry, Dublin, in August.

Aoibhín McMahon (Blackrock AC) also had an excellent day at that Field Events’ Festival in August, as she set PBs of 13.22m in the

Shot Putt and 40.70m in the Javelin.

14-year-old Erinn Leavy (Dunleer AC) clocked a very fast 2:14.85 for the 800m at the Morton Live Juvenile Meet in Santry in September. This is an extremely impressive time for one so young – it’s a performance of which most female 800m runners of any age would be proud.

Michael Alajiki (Dundealgan AC) was the only male athlete to set a Louth record in 2020.

He leapt 14.36m – and 14.40m wind-assisted – to win the silver medal in the Triple Jump at the National Senior Championships in Santry in August. This is also a new Irish U18 national record.

Garry Campbell (Dunleer) ran an impressive 3:50.21 for the 1500m at an NIA Live Indoor Meet in Dublin in January, while Tadhg Donnelly (Drogheda & District AC) was the top man at a range of distances from 1500m

to 10,000m during the outdoor season. Donnelly’s best performances came at the National Senior Championships in Santry in August and at a Northern Ireland Winter Graded Meet at the Mary Peters Track in Belfast in December. In the former he clocked 3:53.96 for the 1500m to finish 6th in the final; in the latter he ran 30:19.63 for the 10,000m – less than 3 seconds outside the Irish U20 record, which has stood since 1970.

Foods McLoughlin Cup raises over €15000 for Maria Goretti Foundation

The fourth annual Foods McLoughlin Cup took place once again this year and despite having to alter the format from previous years the fundraising committee still managed to raise over €15000 for the Maria Goretti Foundation. In previous years the organising committee raised funds by playing a charity football tournament in Oriel Park raising money for worthy local charity’s including local girl Zoe Murphy who needed money to travel to America for a life changing operation.

With Covid restrictions ongoing the committee had to move operations online and this year

the Food Cup was awarded to the team who managed to walk the most miles in a week. After a gruelling week of walking, jogging and running 80 participants clocked up over 2000 kms with ‘He’s got a pineapple on his head’ coming out on top to win the Foods Run. Robert McLoughlin was tragically killed outside his home in the early hours of the morning in October 2017.

‘Foods’ as he was affectionately known had just got out of a taxi across the road from his house when he was struck by two cars on the Newry Road.

The huge Dundalk FC supporter

had earlier attended the Dundalk V Bohemians game in Oriel Park where he was well known by all at the club. Friends of Robert organised a soccer tournament in his memory shortly after his death which raised €10000 for the Irish Roads Victims Association.

Last year the committee decided to try and raise funds for the Temple Street Children’s Hospital with the Foods McLoughlin tournament and once again it was a massive success. The Foods Cup committee thanked everybody who took part in this year’s event as well as all the sponsors who helped make the

fundraiser possible. The event was given a further boost earlier this week when Dundalk FC midfielder Jordan Flores very generously gave up his recent FAI Winners Cup medal for auction with all funds going towards Maria Goretti Foundation. At the time of going to press the highest bid stood at €1400 for the medal.

For anybody who wants to donate to the cause the Foods committee are holding a raffle on the 31st of December with plenty of brilliant prizes up for grabs. Each line costs €2 and all entries can be purchased through the Foods McLoughlin GoFundMe page.

Foods McLaughlin Commitee members.

Brexit - if you need to call As a result of the UK leaving the EU, major changes come into effect on 1 January. Substantial advice is available for businesses and citizens at GOV.IE. For situations requiring urgent and immediate assistance, Government departments and agencies have put in place a number of resources to assist business and citizens for the critical days ahead. Contact details for some of the key services are below. A full list of relevant Government services is available on gov.ie/brexit

Area

Contact details

Opening hours

Customs Clearance Import/Export/Transit Controls (if you already have a declaration reference number).

Tel: 01 738 3685 (Revenue Commissioners)

24 hours

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Advice line for stakeholders in the agri-food and fisheries sector. Queries in relation to import consignments of animals, and products of plant and animal origin should be directed to the relevant border control post of entry.

Tel: 076 106 4443 Email: BrexitCall@agriculture.gov.ie

24 hours

Border Control Posts:

DAFM Dublin Port

Tel: 01 615 7792 Email: BCP.DubPort@agriculture.gov.ie

24 hours

DAFM Dublin Airport

Tel: 01 615 7650 Email: BCP.DublinAirport@agriculture.gov.ie Mon to Fri: 9am - 5:45pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm

DAFM Rosslare Port

Tel: 053 911 4157 Email: RosslareBCP@agriculture.gov.ie

Mon to Sun: 4am - Midday and 2pm - 10pm

HSE Dublin Port and Airport

Tel: 01 921 2851, 087 633 6510, 01 897 6140 Email: importcontroldublin@hse.ie

24 hours

Business Supports

Tel: 01 631 2002 (Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment) Email: infobusinesssupport@enterprise.gov.ie

Mon to Sun: 9am - 5pm

Dublin Port

Tel: 01 887 6000

Mon to Sun: 7am - 11pm

Rosslare Port

Tel: 053 915 7929

Mon to Sun: 3.30am - 10pm

Tel: +353 1 613 1769 or call your local Embassy

8am – 8pm: Friday 1 January – Monday 4 (inclusive) January

Freight shipping procedures and timings etc.

Department of Foreign Affairs Advice line for Irish citizens overseas requiring Brexit related information or assistance.

Callers from Northern Ireland

Tel: 0300 123 1510 (LoCall)

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

12

Blinds

Flooring

Forklifts CCTV

CCTV Systems l Automated Gates l Access Control l Burglar Alarms l

Sales and installation Residential, Commercial and Agricultural PSA and NSAI Certified Unit 7/8 Butterly Business Park, Coes Road, Dundalk 042 9352785 also 16/17 North Quay Drogheda 041 Business 9877077 info@ctibusinesssolutions.com Solutions www.ctibusinesssolutions.com

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Fuel

Gardening

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

13 Frankie Watters, Frances Molloy and Grainne Gorham from Dundalk Credit Union receiving their Award from Chair of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr.

Emma Coffey at the Age Friendly Business Award Ceremony at the Town Hall, Dundalk.

Photo: Jenny Matthews.

Plumbing

Jennifer and Gerard McEvoy receiving their Award from Chair of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr. Emma Coffey and Martin McElligot, Dundalk Bids at the Age Friendly Business Award Ceremony at The Town Hall, Dundalk.

Photo: Jenny Matthews.

Businesses in Clanbrassil Street achieve Age Friendly Business Status

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The Economic Development Office, Louth County Council is delighted to announce that 8 businesses in Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk have now achieved Age Friendly Business status - Elmay Boutique, Guiney’s, Houstons, McEvoys, Backhouse Pharmacy, McAteers Food House, Dundalk Specsavers and Dundalk Credit Union. All 8 businesses have completed Age Friendly training, have appointed an Age Friendly Champion, and have implemented three simple changes in their stores to make the environment, and the customer experience, more appropriate for older customers.

Age Friendly Ireland is currently rolling out training for businesses all over Ireland to help them respond to our rapidly ageing demographic in a positive and supportive way. These businesses recognise that, despite the challenges of Covid19,

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The Louth Age Friendly Business Programme is fully supported by the Louth Older People’s Forum and Harry McCarthy, Louth’s rep on the National Older People’s Council welcomes the Clanbrassil St businesses’ decision to embrace Age Friendly. Clanbrassil St is a wonderland of shops and services older people appreciate and support.

Joan Martin, Chief Executive, Louth County Council and President of the EU Covenant on Demographic Change welcomes the support of the Dundalk BIDS and businesses in Clanbrassil St to the Age Friendly principles. “Louth County Council is very proud of the refurbishment project in Clanbrassil St and we did listen to the voice of older people in their submission when we were developing the design.

To have businesses now also

become Age Friendly is a real success story for the Louth Age Friendly County Programme.”

Colette Moss, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council is delighted to have delivered this initiative in partnership with the Age Friendly Programme, the Dundalk Bids Office and the businesses involved and would like to thank the businesses involved for participating in this worthwhile programme.

Martin McElligott said “As Town Centre Commercial Manager I was delighted that Clanbrassil Street was chosen to pilot the Age Friendly Business Status, the retailers have really embraced this opportunity to enhance the experience of older people in their businesses.

Louth Age Friendly acknowledges the support of Age Friendly Ireland in delivering this initiative.

Martin McKeown and Celia Coyle from Backhouse Pharmacy receiving their Award at the Age Friendly Business Award Ceremony at the Town Hall, Dundalk.

Photo: Jenny Matthews.

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it is important to focus on encouraging and supporting older customers to continue using the products and services they need and enjoy.

The businesses received their Age Friendly Charters and they will be on display in store plus they will be listed on the Age Friendly Business directory at agefriendlyireland.ie.

Louth set the pace for the first Age Friendly Business Programme in Ardee in 2012 which has been replicated in the national programme we are now witnessing all over Ireland says Mary Deery, Louth Age Friendly Coordinator. Gavin Duffy, the Louth Age Friendly Ambassador has always been working in the background supporting Age Friendly business in Louth and it is with great pleasure we now see a newly refurbished Clanbrassil St with an Age Friendly ethos to be inclusive of

Sharon Fitzgerald and Stephen Arrowsmith from Specsavers Dundalk receiving their Award from Chair of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr. Emma Coffey and Colette Moss, SEO, Economic Development, LCC at the Age Friendly Business Award Ceremony.

Photo: Jenny Matthews.

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

14

Family Notices novena

novena

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen.

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

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

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). P.M.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen.

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

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

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). L.M.cD.

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates.

Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices.ie.

HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning.

Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie.

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

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

Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-8407707.

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

GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086109-7358.

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

All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance.

For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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

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

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

articles for sale

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

Christmas delight for Special athletes “You are worthy and deserving” - the message Dundalk Special Olympics’ Committee wanted to relay to their athletes with lovely Christmas gifts this past week.

Due to restrictions and concerns for the safety of the vulnerable athletes, the annual Christmas party could not go ahead. Dancing, dressing up and receiving gifts from Santa had to be postponed.

Like everyone else, Dundalk Special Olympics Club had a trying year with all training and competitions cancelled. Much needed physical activity and social interaction with our athletes had to continue via online platforms.

Coaches and volunteers kept in touch with each other and athletes throughout the pandemic, while working behind the scenes to ensure return to club would be in

Christmas delight for local Members of Dundalk Special Olympics Club. a safe manner. They set up fun challenges for the athletes like ‘Shooting the hoop’ and Golf skills, which made for some great entertainment.

“Our chairperson, Ailish McArdle, has worked tirelessly at keeping great communication going, ensuring coaches, volunteers and committee members alike take online courses

presented by Special Olympics Ireland to benefit the athletes for a safe return” said Trish Farrell, committee member.

Dundalk Special Olympics club currently has 44 active members training with them. Dundalk Town and community, in supporting the club, made 2019 a very successful fundraising year. “This support enabled us to treat our

athletes and volunteers with lovely gifts and Shop Local vouchers - thank you Dundalk,” Tessa van Heerden, Fundraising, said.

“When the vaccine arrives and it is safe to do so, we are ready and prepared to return to training” Ailish McArdle said, wishing all a Merry Christmas on behalf of Dundalk Special Olympics Club.

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

SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

CD Logs—Kiln Dried Ash/Oak & Birch, Weekly Deliveries to Dundalk & surrounding areas. Newry Co. Down Mob 00 44 77 6040 3254 or 048 30269632 www.cdlogs. com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

special services

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

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

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

Retired reliable local man with Safe Pass available for Painting & Decorating, Internal and External,30 years’ experience, also grass cutting, strimming.

General Garden Maintenance and Garage Clearance. Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472.

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

Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633.

Painting & Decorating—interior and exterior, over 10 years experience,B d no job too big or too small, for free quoT tations Tel Ian 087 415 8238. Referencesa available.

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

Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

VOLUNTEER DRIVER—Available to transport Cancer patients to and from Hospital/Clinic. Highly experienced in this care. Reference available. Fuel contribu-F tion requested. Tel Carmel 0044-7923-t h 192799. o grinds C p MATHS, PHYSICS, APPLIED MATHa GRINDS—All levels. One-on-one tuitionw with an experienced tutor. Contact 083-d l 087-4223.

M f C W

c e r a l r r L s p n b t

a o fi m W c t w O t s

Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020

Things to consider when buying a new car

Value—When you’re buying a new car, one of the first things you’ll look for is the big price tag on the windshield.

It’s important that you don’t just accept this price without questioning it first. Take some time to research what other retailers are charging for the same model and what other drivers have reported paying.

Using this information to negotiate with the salesperson can help you make significant savings.

It’s an unfortunate truth that once you drive off in your new car, its value drops by up to a third of what you just paid. Even if you love your new purchase right now, within five years you’re likely to be in the market to change your car again. Haggle now and you can make some immediate savings – and potentially minimise Billy Byrne, receiving his trophy for the Interme- Freddie McArdle AIPF, receiving the Louis Leech losses when you sell the diate Photographer of the Year 2020, from An trophy for the overall Photographer of the Year car down the line.

Táin Photographic Group. This club award was 2020, from An Táin Photographic Group. This Insurance—Unless accepted remotely this year due to Covid-19. award was accepted remotely due to Covid-19. you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll have noticed the impact of rising motor insurance premiums over the past few years. Insurance

McGreehan welcomes €10,000 funding for Louth to support Communications Campaign on Women in Local Government

Fianna Fail Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed funding of €10,000 to Louth County Council to support activities to encourage the participation of women and people of diverse communities in local government.

Senator McGreehan commented, “This is an excellent initiative and really welcome. Women are 51% of our population, yet that is not reflected in elected representatives. The 2019 Local Elections saw a small increase of 3.8 percentage points in the number of seats taken by women, from 20.1% to 23.9%.

Senator McGreehan added, “There are a lot of gaps that need to be filled. There is a need for more women in politics.

We will never have policies that are truly reflective of all people unless we have more diversity.

Our elected representatives need to reflect our society.”

The successful

15

costs for brand new cars can vary significantly.

While the additional security features will be attractive to insurers, the value of these features also makes your car a bigger target for burglars – and more expensive to replace if damaged in a crash. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car, but it’s important that you consider insurance (as well as fuel and any other associated costs) to ensure it suits your budget.

Leaser Beware— New car sales took a sizeable dip during the recession era, and PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) agreements have played a key role in reversing this trend. The allure of lower monthly repayments can be hard for motorists to resist, particularly as most people expect to trade in their car before they reach the end of the agreement.

A new car at a significantly lower cost sounds too good to be true, right? Well, unfortunately, that’s because it probably is. With a PCP agreement you never

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042 9331515/086 2559201

Senator Erin McGreehan.

projects were selected based on numerous criteria, such as supporting existing councillors, engagement with potential future candidates, creating an awareness of local government and

intended impact on the targeted sector.

Local authorities were also asked to consider the findings of Department funded research previously carried out by the National Women’s

Council of Ireland and the Immigrant Council of Ireland, as well as the recommendations set out in the Moorhead Review of the Role and Remuneration of Councillors.

actually own the car but are in fact renting it and, in order to avoid unexpected charges at tradein time you’ll have to maintain the condition of the car at an agreed level and stick to a very strict mileage limit.

Staying within these criteria can be difficult for the majority of car owners so you may find yourself paying significantly more than you expected to when you finally trade in the car.

Should you import?—The impact of Brexit and the improved performance of the euro against the sterling in recent years has led some Irish motorists to seek savings when buying by importing cars from the UK. However, importing may also mean travelling to Northern Ireland or elsewhere in the UK as well as getting involved with the tax man and the much dreaded VRT. Unfortunately, between taxes, the cost of travelling and the process of importing your car, the thousands you save by buying in the UK in the first place may be eaten into.

If you’re buying a

new car and willing to jump through a few hoops importing may be for you. think about fuel—Is it time to go electric? Is diesel on the way out? What’s a hybrid? Given the financial investment you’re making in your new car, it’s important to find a balance between your needs and future motoring advancements.

While the most recent budget steered clear of increasing the carbon tax on diesel, closing the price gap between a litre of petrol and diesel is likely to remain a longterm priority for government. Combine this with a global effort to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and diesel appears to have had its day.

In the short to midterm, petrol will maintain its popularity, but the future of motoring is certainly going to be electric. So if you primarily drive shorter distances or do a lot of driving in urban areas (where charging points are more readily available), going electric may prove cheaper for you in the long-term.

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Dundalk Leader 30th December 2020