04-01-2012

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Work together for bright future Wednesday 4th January, 2012. Vol. 5, Issue 1. 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

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

By Paul Byrne and Niamh Kirk

As Dundalk retailers reflect on a encouraging Christmas and New Year trade a number of business people have called on the community to work together to ensure a bright future for the town.

Despite the current difficulties, there is a clear sense of optimism among the business community that Dundalk can prosper. Dundalk retailers have seen an increase in footfall over the busy Christmas period and have revealed that the 2% VAT increase which came into effect on January 1st will have little or no effect on business in Dundalk.

Chairman of the TCCM (Town Centre Commercial Manager) Brian O’Neill

summed up the mood of cautious optimism when he called for a unified effort to meet the challenge.

“I think the main message from any retailer I’ve been talking to is that there has definitely been more footfall in their shops this year. As retailers it is up to us to be more prudent, smarter and to think of ways to keep the customer in Dundalk. As a town we have to pull together and help each other get Dundalk back on the map.

The Marshes Shopping Centre also saw three new outlets open their doors welcoming new business and new staff to the centre.

Despite best efforts a fourth store did not get to open before Christmas due to contractual delays. Manager Harry Traynor has been observing the trends

Charlie Chaplin invasion

Conor Hughes with his helpers Alex and Keelan Bewley and Laura Shiels Blackrock man Conor, continthe result of too much sherry in the

By Paul Byrne ued his annual tradition of madcap Christmas trifle but rather the latest St Stephen’s Day fundraisers with Conor Hughes charity event deThe sight of 80 Charlie Chaplains a ‘Charlie Chaplain’ themed outing signed to raise money for his Cross wandering around Blackrock beach on Blackrock beach.

Cause charity. on St Stephen’s morning wasn’t

Charged over theft New schools for Dundalk from jewellery shop

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DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

By Niamh Kirk

Two teenagers appeared before Dundalk Civil Court charged relating to the theft of jewellery from Midas Jewellers, Long w walk Shopping Centre on December 12.

Christopher Kerr (19) of 381, Beechmount

Drive, Cox’s Demesne was remanded in custody to Cloverhill Court.

Judge Flann Brennan at his solicitor Conor McGuill’s request directed that he receive medical and psychiatric attention.

He also granted him legal aid and ordered that statements be supplied to his solicitor.

A 17 year-old also appeared in connection with the offence. He was admitted to conditional bail that requires he stay away from his coaccused, reside with his parents, abide by a curfew and stay away from the Long w walk and sign on three times a week at Dundalk Garda Station.

He was remanded to the sitting of the court on January 26. He was granted legal aid, and an order made for statements and CCTV footage to be handed over to his solicitor.

DunDALK is among the areas to benefit from the Government’s efforts to tackle the increasing pressures on Ireland’s Education System.

Recently Minister Rurai Quinn’s recently announced that 56 national school building projects would be undertaken this year as well as projects already in the pipelines, which will see an influx of education services in the area.

Some schools have already seen the benefits as Scoil Muire na Gael in Bay Estate had its works completed earlier this year.

Blackrock is to see the construction of a new primary school as a part of the Government’s most recent investment in education. The pupils of St Francis’ national School, Blackrock can look forward to the commencement of construction of a new school in the next few months. Former teacher and Blackrock native Senator Mary Moran welcomed the news saying she was “delighted that Louth has featured prominently among these projects” and “I am also particularly delighted that the green light has been given for the construction of a new school for the pupils and staff of St. Francis’ national School.”

Louth VEC are seeking patronage of a new second level school in Dundalk and have been hosting public meetings as well as the proposal to establish a Geal Colaiste in Dundalk Town. The VEC are proposing the establishment of a new nondesignated Community College and aim to have their plans submitted by the end of the month.

The Community College hopes to have a plurality and diversity in its patronage.

Dr Kirk said recently ““the new school would be firmly anchored in the Dundalk community, it would be accessible to all the people in the community, it would have community

representatives on its Board of Management and it would serve the full student population of its catchment area. This is why we choose the name Dundalk Community College”. €430 million will be spent on education infrastructure this year aiming to deal with the predicted increases in demand and calls sizes in urban areas. The projects nationally will provide 15,000 primary and over 7,500 secondary places including new schools and extensions to existing buildings. Total enrolment in both Primary and Post Primary schools is expected to grow by around 70,000 by 2018.

Sub Aqua make call for better access to river

DuNDAlk’S Sub Aqua Search and Rescue have again called for better access to the Castletown River after running into difficulties during the search for a missing OAP over the Christmas period.

The body of the 69-year-old local man was taken from the Castletown River late last week after he went missing from his home on Christmas Eve. Following an extensive land search by the Gardai and members of the victim’s family, Sub Aqua was called.

However their ef efforts were initially hampered by the limited access to the Castletown River which has no slip-way to allow for boats to launch. The Sub Aqua teams were forced to search for suitable launch areas along the river for their spe-

cialised craft for shallow water which was damaged in the process and is currently undergoing repairs.

A spokesman for the Sub Aqua group described gaining access to the river with a craft as ‘near impossible’ and noted that on a number of occasions

they have had to risk Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue team on the swimming out to save Castletown River those in difficulty.

Meanwhile, Paddy Agnew of Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue has thanked local people for their continued generosity during the annual collection on New Year’s Eve.

Wizkids’ Nativity Play

The children of Wizkids Pre-school, Blackrock, acted out their annual Nativity Play

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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NEws

in Brief Car theft

Martin Brady of 15, Drumalt Road, Silverbridge was remanded on €3,000 bail, a €1,000 to be lodged on a charge of the unlawful taking of a car at Hill Street between September 27 and 29 last.

He appeared in custody at Dundalk Court and the case was put back to March 28.

Award for Netwell Centre

The Netwell Centre at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) has been selected to join a worldwide group of centres of excellence into ageing research.

The Centre is one of only three Irish locations to be selected to join the Global Ageing Research Network, along with Aois agus eolas (Tallaght hospital and Trinity College Dublin) and the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology (NUIG) The Netwell Centre and CASALA, its sister technology and ageing centre are committed to enhancing longer living in smarter places.

DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

NEws

Members of the Dundalk Order of Malta recently paid their annual to the patients of st. Oliver Plunkett hospital with santa and distributed presents to all the patients.

This year is the 59th time that the Dundalk Order of Malta has visited the hospital at Christmas time and saw the McCollum brothers along with Kevin shields play come along and some Christmas songs while santa and his helpers distributed the presents.

The Order of Malta would like to thank shane and Roddy McCollum along with Kevin shields who gave up there time for free to play for the patients.

in Brief

BC Electrical Draw

Call to reduce pay parking charges

By Paul Byrne

CLLR Kevin Meenan has called on Dundalk Town Council to reduce Pay Parking charges by 30c to €1 to encourage more people to come into town.

Speaking at the annual budget meeting Cllr Meenan expressed his disappointment that pay parking rates would remain at €1.30 per hour on the streets of Dundalk.

“I see the amount of money the council took in from pay parking in 2011 was down by €300,000. We need to encourage people to come into town and I would suggest we

bring pay parking prices down to a euro for a three month trial period to see how figures compare to previous years.” he added.

Responding to Cllr Meenan’s suggestion, Town Clerk Frank Pentony said that the problem with reducing pay parking was that the council would have to make it up somewhere else. He also questioned whether reduced pay parking charges equated to more people coming into town.

“We actually reduced the pay parking charge to 70c in July for much of the town centre and to be honest we didn’t see any noticeable

increase in people coming into town” explained Mr Pentony.

Cllr Meenan noted that the fact there were major road works in town for most of 2011 meant that it was unfair to judge what affect reduced pay parking would have in Dundalk.

“Now that the Square redevelopment has finished let’s try and reduce pay parking for a three month trial period and see what affect it will have on people coming into town. I would be confident we would see an increase in the amount of cars coming into town” added Cllr Meenan.

BC Electricial 30th Anniversary Customer Prize draw winners were 1st prize Sarah Coogan Ballynahattan; 2nd prize Marie Pepper Avenue Rd.; 3rd prize Kevin Cormican Dowdallshill; 4th prize Theresa McKeown Bellurgan & 5th prize Rosemary Reilly Knockbridge. Congratulations to the winners and thanks for all who entered.

Carlingford is top spot

Carlingford has been rated the best place to live in Ireland in 2011 by website, LikePlace. ie. A close second and third were Schull in Co Cork and Portmagee in Co Kerry. On a county level Louth was among the runners-up for best quality of life.

Dun Dealgan Athletic Club

Training for Dun Dealgan juvenile athletes (boys and girls aged seven upwards) recommences on Wednesday January 11from 6.45pm to 8pm.

New members are welcome. For information contact 087 6556030.

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Realt na Mara get into festive spirit

By Paul Byrne

The generous pupils of Realt Na Mara have donated Christmas Hampers to St Vincent de Paul as part of their annual Christmas appeal for the charity.

Members of the Realt na Mara student council which consists of pupils from 4th, 5th and 6th class have been collecting food for their hampers for the last two months.

The council’s task was to inform Realt na Mara students doand remind other students to help, nate hampers to SVP and donate non-perishable foods

and put them into the boxes that were in their classrooms. Then the food was made into hampers and presented to St. Vincent De Paul at a ceremony at Realt na Meara school. The hampers will now be used to assist those in need in Dundalk.

Meanwhile, Sophie McDonagh (10) has ensured it was a very happy Christmas for hundreds of vulnerable children as she donated 10 sacks full of toys to the ‘Toys for Barnardo’s Christmas appeal. According to Sophie, she was moved

to help the charity after watching an advert on television.

“I was sitting at home watching television when an ad came on for Barnardo’s showing all the poor children in Ireland who don’t get gifts for Christmas and I decided I would try and help them” explained Sophie.

“My classmates donated all their old toys and we ended up getting 10 big sacks full of toys for the poor children. Hopefully it will help them have a better Christmas.” she added.

McCaffrey eyeing ‘long-term project’ New Dundalk FC manager Seán McCaffrey has eyed a “longterm project” at Oriel Park, after he was confirmed as Ian Foster’s successor on Friday afternoon.

The 52-year-old has signed a one-year contract with the Lilywhites, but he has spoken of his desire to develop a “sustainable model” for the club.

“I see it as a long-term project,” McCaffrey told dundalkfc. com. “Teams come and go and managers come and go. If you look at what Alex Ferguson did at Manchester United or Wenger at Arsenal – they built a club.

“They have a situation where they buy good players and they produce good players, so it’s a mixture of both, and the structure from scouting 12-yearolds right through to scouting top international players is in place in both those clubs.

“That’s the only type of a

model that is sustainable. And League of Ireland football has always struggled because there hasn’t been an appropriate model that is sustainable for the finances around the league and for the long-term.

“That’s what we’re going to try to do. Money will build you a team and it could maybe build you a club, but you need to put the structures in place.

“Everything needs to be right, instead of this situation in League of Ireland football where the manager goes and the whole team goes, and the whole thing starts all over again.

“It’s just not sustainable and it’s not the sensible approach.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be here. It’s a club, when I was a teenager growing up, where we went to watch League of Ireland matches. We would go to watch European games, like against Liverpool and Celtic.

“I remember as a 14-yearold getting into the dressing room. There was a priest called John McElroy, a Celtic fan who lived in Glasgow, and he got us into the dressing room and we met Bobby Lennox and Kenny Dalglish and all those guys.

“I remember all the great Dundalk teams under Jim McLaughlin. It was a fantastic club. I remember all the top players – Tommy McConville, Paddy Dunning, Pop Flanagan obviously, a Monaghan man, Jimmy Dainty, Cathal Muckian – I could write a book on it.

“I’m delighted to get it. I think

it’s a club with a fantastic fan base and huge potential. It’s a huge football town.

“The Dundalk Schoolboys’ League is on your doorstep, and I know a lot of people involved in it such as Gerry Gover and Larry Gorham.

“There are a lot of very good clubs around Dundalk, so I know the potential there. I capped a few young Dundalk players through the years, and I’d know the history of it well.

“There’s a huge challenge with the job. There’s a fairly small budget but, having said that, Gerry Matthews has spent a fortune on the club and the Youth Development Centre is a fabulous facility.

“You can’t spend it at both ends so we have to put up with a small budget for a couple of seasons and manage it as best as we can', said Sean.

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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Found twice with kitchen knife

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

A 27-year-old Dundalk man who twice was arrested as a result of Gardai finding a nine inch kitchen knife in separate incidents, received a three month suspended jail sentence.

Barry Dullaghan of 509 Ashling Park appeared at the local court in regard to four separate matters, three of which occurred in 2009 and the other in June last year.

Inspector Martin Beggy said on

the latter date he was drunk at the Ecco Road, and didn’t move when asked by a Garda.

The Inspector outlined the previous September Gardai conducted a search after seeing the defendant throw an object away and discovered a nine inch kitchen knife.

He said the defendant, on December 1 the same year, was causing annoyance at Earl Street.

He was asked to leave and struck a rubbish bin with his fist The second incident involving a kitchen knife occurred on March 14 the same year.

The Inspector related that Gardai found him intoxicated, flat on his back, with a nine inch kitchen knife underneath him.

Solicitor Frank McDonnell said that Dullaghan wasn’t in trouble or didn’t come under notice since.

Marist students host trade fair

Budding entrepreneurs in the Marist were given the opportunity to show everyone how hard they had been working since September as the industrious Transition Year students held their minicompany Trade Fair in the College Hall before Christmas.

Sports bags, iPhone/ iPod covers, family crest key rings, wrist bands, locker lights, hand warmers and extendable key chains, were just some of the great products on offer for the discerning shopper.

Teachers, students from all year groups and even students from other schools were invited to visit. The hall was buzzing with eager bargain hunters.

The atmosphere was heightened with a penalty shootout competition and crazy golf tournaments.

Marist students display their products at the trade fair

For those who still wanted to compete, but in a more relaxed setting, one group had set up a little sitting room/lounge with comfy chairs and a giant screen and projector, which were used to display computer game knockouts. Other fairground-style games were also available and attracted a lot of attention.

For the weary shopper, there were plenty of refreshments on offer, while Peggy McGlynn from the

County Enterprise Board called by and chatted and offered advice to the future tycoons.

Under the watchful eye of their Enterprise teachers, Lynn McArdle and Tommy Flynn, the Transition Year students had a wonderful day.

Of course, none of it would have been possible without the great number of sponsors, who supplied capital, products and advice to many students.

Died from drug intoxication

An inquest into the death of Mark Ward (32) Seafield Lawns, Dundalk, was told that he died from drug intoxication.

The Dundalk District Coroner’s Court last week heard that Mr Ward became unwell after being arrested by Gardaí on the Avenue Road, June 28 this year.

He went into cardiac arrest and was brought by ambulance to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.

State Pathologist, Professor Marie Cassidy found that Mr Ward was found to have died from ecstasy, amphetamine, mephedrone, ketamine

and cocaine intoxication as the opening statement of her post-mortem was read out.

Mr Wards’ death was the subject of two separate investigations, one by the Gardaí and the second by the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission; both of whom had requested the inquest be adjourned.

Mr Ward’s family were told that they could pose questions when the hearing continues early in 2012.

A file on the death is with the Director of Public Prosecutions.

News

in Brief Dundalk No Name Club AGM

The AGM for the Dundalk No Name club will be held on Wednesday January 11, in the Outcomers Hall, Roden Place Dundalk at 8pm.

A new committee will be elected for the coming year and new members are welcome.

The No Name Club is a national organisation with nearly 50 clubs around the 26 counties, which caters for 15 to 18year olds, organising activities and events for the teenagers where the pressures of alcohol or drugs are removed.

The club meets weekly on Friday nights at the Outcomers hall between 7.30 and 9.30pm, and a wide range of activities which include games nights, movie nights, table quizzes, discos, and chill and chat nights are organised.

This meeting is open to everybody and new adult volunteers are welcome.

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Request to have more communiction from ESB

By Paul Byrne

Councillor Conor Keelan has called on the town engineer to contact the ESB to ask for better communications with residents during maintenance related power outages.

This follows a 12 hour power outage in the Dowdallshill, Faughart, Fatima and Kilcurry areas on December 9. Residents had originally been informed on

December 5 that there would be no power in the area between the hours of 9am and 6pm but for many homes in the area there was no power until 9pm in the evening.

Speaking at the December town council meeting Councillor Keelan urged the town engineer to communicate the resident’s frustrations to ESB. “This is the second time in about four months that the residents of

this area have had to put up with substantial power outages.

“I think that cutting power for even nine hours seems very restrictive in this day and age”, he said.

ESB’s Angela Kearney said it was unfortunate that the maintenance took longer than expected but stressed that all times given to residents regarding power outages were approximate times.

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Colaiste Ris reach a ninth All-Ireland final

Coláiste Rís will appear in its ninth successive All-Ireland Debating Final after being crowned Regional Champions in Comórtas Díospóireacht Uí Chadhain in Drogheda before Christmas.

The Dundalk school has now appeared in every final of the Gael Linn-organised national competition for Irish debating since its inception in 2004, and came through their latest bout with some ease, comfortably seeing off opposition from Glasnevin and Enniscorthy.

The motion for discussion was a topical issue, go bhfuil an Roinnn Coimirce Sóisialaí rófhlaithiúil – that the Department of Social Protection is too generous – and Coláiste Rís were opposing the motion. Sionnainn

Sionnainn Glenholmes, Emer Nic Fhionnachtaigh and Caoimhe Nic Suibhne

Glenholmes, Coláiste team captain, opened her team’s presentation and was followed by Emer Nic Fhionnachtaigh and Caoimhe Nic Suibhne.

There was little doubt the Chapel Street team had moved towards another All-Ireland Final, and this was confirmed by the judges’ quick return

with the adjudication.

In giving the decision to the local team they noted the team’s experience in debating as being a huge asset in the competition.

The judges drew attention to the strong arguments and presentation skills displayed by the Coláiste Rís girls and this was enhanced by the obvious

team spirit.

Seán Ó Coigligh, team mentor, was delighted with this latest success.

“It is great to have the privilege of working with these three students, who are prepared to listen to advice and direction.

Coláiste Rís last won the All-Ireland title in 2006.

Man made life hell for woman Judge Flann Brennan further remanded a 43-year-old unemployed man Mark Williams of 9, Hazelcourt, Bay Estate, whom he held was making life hell for the mother of his young son.

He convicted him of a series of

harassment charges on dates between April 16 and August 2 last.

He also convicted him of kicking the woman in the shin at Dundalk District Court on June 8 last.

He adjourned the case for a week to consider his decision, and

said it was a case where a sentence must be imposed, but in view of the defendant being a carer for his parents was prepared to explore Williams doing it in the community. He adjourned to February 22 to obtain an evaluation report.

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Pete Treanor’s

Weekly Quiz

History King William of Orange was originally a prince from what country?

Fashion What type of clothing is a Fedora?

Local Which entertainer and writer used the pseudonym, ‘Brick Wallis’ when appearing on pirate radio?

Nature A ‘squab’ is the young of what bid?

Geography Valetta is the capital of what island state in the Mediterranean?

The Bible Which of the Twelve Apostles was also called Levi?

Dublin By what name is Sackville St now known?

Language In olden days a chan-

dler bought and sold what?

Pop and Rock Who duetted with Bono on U2’s hit ‘When Love Comes to Town’?

Transport Which is Europe’s oldest national airline?

This week’s Stinker He had the biggest selling single in Ireland and Britain in 1965 and never made another record, yet he still plays to packed houses. Who is he?

—this week’s answers—

Youth groups benefit from funding DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

A ToTAl l of forty-seven youth groups have been successful in their application for funding through the local Youth Club Grant Scheme.

The scheme, administered by the Co. louth VEC on behalf of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, is focused on financially supporting voluntary run organisations that offer a youth work response for young people primarily between the ages of 10 and 21.

Twenty-three voluntary youth clubs from North and Mid louth attended award evenings held in the VEC administration Offices, Chapel Street, Dundalk including: Dundalk No Name Club; Blackrock Youth Café; Guides Kilkerely; Bayzone Youth Club; Shelagh Youth Club; Dancing Diamonds; Dr Padraig Kirk CEO Co LOuth Vec with Ian Walker Youth ofGuides Castletown; Kilkerley fice and Cllr Jim Ryan Vice Chairman Co Louth VEC with Youth Foroige Club; Scouts 2nd louth group leaders who received funding from the Co Louth VEC. Dundalk Grammar School had two students who were shortlisted for the Eircom Junior Spiders Awards, Michael O’Neill and Rollo Konig-Brock.

Michael O’Neill, a 6th year student, won two awards in the Eircom Junior Tera Spiders 2011 Awards ceremony.

He was also the overall prize winner of the Eircom Junior Tera Spiders 2011 awards. The Tera Spiders awards are open to 4th to 6th year students and recognise and reward students for the successful and innovative ways in which they use the internet in their daily lives.

Photography shows Lisa Moore with Scott Nowell and Michael O’Neill of Dundalk Grammar School, Tera Spiders Best Concept winner.

Blackrock; Scouts 1st louth; Kilsaran Wildcats; Scouts 1/2/5 louth St Patricks; Scouts 3rd louth Ravensdale; Drop In Youth Club, Saint Brigids Youth Club; omeath Youth Project; Friary Youth Club; Scouts 5th louth Buion Setanta; The Starlites; Friends Youth Club; omeath Youth Club; Homework Support Club; Scouts 8th louth Slieve Foy. Ian Walker, Youth Officer of Co. louth VEC, commented on the success of the event.

“The evenings provided an excellent opportunity for clubs to both network and speak about the activities they offer to the young people that attend their service. It was particularly encouraging to see that so many young people were given the responsibility of delivering this presentation.”

NewS

in Brief

Student given more time to pay A 24-year-old student was given further time to pay €5,000 to the Court Poor Box. Judge Flann Brennan said he would consider applying the probation act in a social welfare case where Ben Hagan of 96, Drogheda Street, Balbriggan collected over €3,800 in the name of another person at the local offices at St Alphonsus Road.

Two charges for making gain or causing loss by deception on dates in February and July last were adjourned for a week by Judge Flann Brennan to Wednesday last after evidence was heard the previous week.

The Judge then put the case back to February 21.

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Charlie Chaplain invasion

From page 1 The event helped to raise approximately €5,000 for the Crosscause charity which Conor set up to help the disadvantaged in Romania, Moldova and Ghana.

“We were delighted with the turnout and it was great to raise a bit of money for the charity. About 80 people turned up all decked out in Charlie Chaplain outfits and we even had a 90 year old Charlie Chaplain which I believe is the oldest Charlie ever”, added Conor.

“We had a huge 55” LCD television playing old Charlie Chaplain movies ansd I’d like to thank Lally’s for helping us out with that for the day. I’d also like to thank Paddy Sands in Llly coffee for providing everybody on the beach with free tea and coffee. We were lucky with the weather and I’m glad that everybody seemed to enjoy themselves on the day”, said

VaT Va aT aBSoRBeD

Harvey Norman will not be passing along the VAT increase to its customers In January 2012, however the company will reconsider changes from February onwards.

“Consumer confidence is very low, and the last thing our customers need or want is price rises”, said John Hollings, General Manager for the electrical division.

email: editorial @dundalkleader.com

1. Holland 2. Hat 3. Gerry Foran 4. Pigeon 5.

Malta 6. Matthew 7. O’Connell St 8. Candles 9.

BB King 10. KLM (Holland). Stinker – Ken Dodd (Tears).

News Good relations promoted in Brief between DkIT and residents

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

An initiative has been launched between the college authorities and Students’ Union at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT); residents of the College Manor housing estate and An Garda Síochána to promote good relations between students and those living year-round in the local community.

To incentivise civic pride and good maintenance of rented accommodation on the estate, a prize will be on offer for the best overall student house at the estate which is close the Institute campus and popular with students from other areas of

Congratulations to Freda McGeough, who completed her Leaving Cert in St Marys College in June and was recently awarded a scholarship to NUI Maynooth having achieved 530 points in her Leaving Certificate. Freda, whose parents Ann and Patsy McGeough are both teachers in the Marist, is studying Law, French and History.

Man is trying to turn his life around

Judge Flann Brennan adjourned a case to receive probation and medical reports on a 35 year-old Dromiskin man at whose premises Gardai recovered 24 plants, ten saplings and a number of seeds of cannabis.

He remanded Darren Kinahan of Whiterath to May 2 next after he admitted at Dundalk Court charges for the cultivation of cannabis plants and opium poppy, possession of drugs for sale or supply and also possession of the drug.

These resulted after Garda carried out a search of his premises on June

30 last year. He admitted growing plants for four or five years, said Inspector Martin Beggy.

Solicitor Tony Donagher said that the defendant, a former stonemason was fully cooperative with the Gardai.

He had a problem with cannabis for a number of years, and was quite glad he was caught at an early stage.

He was now doing everything he could to turn his life around, engaging with his doctor to resolve his addiction and a counselling service.

He hoped to undertake a catering course next year.

North-East TDs and Senators demand inquiry

TDs and Senators from Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan have requested the Taoiseach to initiate an inquiry into all of the circumstances surrounding the long standing allegations of sexual abuse which allegedly took place in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda from the 1960s right through to the 1990s.

This is an unprecedented step and illustrates very clearly the concerns held by Dáil and Seanad members of all parties at the fact that these series of extremely serious allegations have never been examined in a comprehensive fashion despite the fact that the first series of complaints were made to the Gardaí and health authorities some considerable time ago.

the country who live in Dundalk during term time.

Launching the initiative along with the Students’ Union; residents’ representatives and Gardaí, Denis Cummins, President, DkIT, said: “We are very aware of the challenges that can arise in areas with a high concentration of private rented accommodation and this programme at College Manor is a small step towards promoting good neighbourliness in an area where many of our students stay while living away from home to attend

college.

“The partnership approach that underpins this initiative will see the Institute; our Students’ Union; residents of College Manor and the local Gardaí work together to address any issues that may arise from time to time around anti-social behaviour.

Our Students’ Union is also very aware of the importa nce of preserving good relations with the local community so that a small minority doesn’t damage the reputation of the wider student population”, he added.

Integrated transport

Dundalk commuters are set to link up with Ireland’s first integrated public transport ticketing scheme, thanks to Matthews Coaches. The progressive local firm is the only private bus company taking part in the trials for the innovative new Leap card scheme. Matthews begin testing the product on their Bettystown to Dublin route, and all commuters can avail of the service in early 2012.

Call for second recycling facility in town

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

By Paul Byrne

Cllr Ollan Herr has asked Dundalk Town Council to consider building a second recycling facility in Dundalk to complement the current recycling plant on the Newry Road. Speaking at the annual draft budget town council meeting

Cllr Herr said it “stuck in his craw” that a lot of excess waste ends up in Drogheda.

“I think that the success of the recycling centre on the old Newry Road underlines the public acceptance of the idea of recycling.

“I propose that we look at extending these facilities on the other side of

town.

“It really sticks in my craw that a lot of this excess waste will end up in Drogheda and I’d suggest we really do something about looking into opening another facility.” he added.

The Dundalk recycling centre is considered to be one of the best run facilities in the country and recently

won the Repak Civic Amenity Site of the year award.

Last year the centre had approximately 2200 users per week and recycled over 10,000 tonnes during the course of the year.

While acknowledging the success of the facility Town Clerk Frank Pentony was quick to pour water over any

suggestions of a second facility being opened.

“There is no doubt that the recycling centre on the Newry Road has been a huge success but given the numbers involved I really doubt that we’d be able to justify building another facility in Dundalk.” he explained.

Wrap Around programme

The Wrap Around Programme is a new initiative being run in Dundalk for first and second time parents and their babies. It will being in February 2012 and is specifically for parents of babies born in November and December 2011.

The programme will run over the first two years of a baby’s life and will give the parent access to the very best parent-infant information.

Every parent wants the very best start in life for their baby. The first two years of a baby’s life are a time of loving and learning. You want to commu-

nicate with them, learn what their cries, smiles and gestures mean. Through interaction, a parent has the power to shape and guide them in their most caring of ways.

The Wrap Around Programme will give parents a better understanding of their baby’s needs and offer lots of upto-date information and ways to enjoy the first two years with a new baby.

The following are some of the areas that will be covered during the programme: baby massage, weaning, feeding, First Aid, infant play and congnitive development.

Work together for future from page 1 and although not what it once was is still reporting a ‘lift’ in business.

“You haven’t got the mass exodus of people travelling up to the North as you once had.

I think the recent lighting of the Christmas Tree and the opening of Market Square reminded people it was Christmas, since then there was a bit of a buzz in the town.

The sales brought many people out with cash in hands as prices were slashed by up to 75% before shops in Dundalk closed for Christmas.

According to retailers around town the much talked about 2% VAT increase will have little effect on sales this year as in general the retailers will absorb any extra costs.

“The problems we’ve been having with people going up the north have never been about VAT” insists Patsy Maguire of

Eddie Maguire Electrical in Dundalk. It was mainly to do with the exchange rate. When the euro was worth 95p people were flocking up to Newry but now that it’s down to 83p people aren’t bothering anymore.

“This VAT increase of 2% will be absorbed by the retailers. If I have a washing machine selling at €399 I’m not going to put it up to €408 as soon as the VAT increase comes in. It will stay at €399 because that’s my price point. People are beginning to stay in Dundalk now because the difference in prices between Newry and Dundalk is simply not as big as it may have been in the past.” added Patsy.

Jock McArdle of Quick Exchange on the Longwalk Road agreed with Patsy’s sentiments and noted that more people have stayed in Dundalk to do their shopping this year.

“This Christmas

more people have shopped local without a doubt” said Jock. It’s good news for us that the Market Square has been finished and that traffic is flowing around town again. We now have to ensure that we use the new square to attract people into town by putting on shows and music and ensuring the square looks well.

“The council have spent a lot of money doing up the square and we must now utilise it fully to help retailers in the area” he added.

The town centre traders associations saw a varied degree of Christmas surge in spending but the Longwalk Shopping centre was pleased to see a 5% increase in the footfall on the same period last year and the footfall is not the only indication that there are slight improvements.

The shopping centre also welcomed three new outlets which between them have created six new jobs.

DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

Batty for batteries in Ardee The pupils of Scoil Mhuire na Trócaire, Ardee collected every used battery in the area for the big battery recycling event organised by Louth Co Council in conjunction with the eRP, the european Recycling Platform.

The target for the town was to collect half a tonne weight in used batteries but the girls in Scoil Mhuire na Trócaire collected over half a tonne by themselves.

The eRP had invited Santa and his elves to Ardee and the pupils gave used batteries to Santa in exchange for fabulous gifts and goody bags. An important recycling message was learned by all.

There was also an inter-schools art competition and fashion show on the day. Once again the girls from Scoil Mhuire na Trócaire pulled out all the stops and exceeded all expectations when they turned up with eighteen

Pupils from Scoil Mhuire na Trocaire, Ardee

amazing costumes, all made from recycled materials and reminding us to recycle our batteries and old electrical goods.

The school was delighted when Abby McCoy was declared as the overall winner of the InterSchools Competition with her amazing “Plug” outfit with Abby advising the audience to plug in to re-

cycling. The school fancy dress winners were: 1st: Ciara Callis 2nd: Laura Maguire & Aisling Kane 3rd: Dominika Korona Overall Inter-schools Fancy Dress Winner: Abby McCoy. The girls from Scoil Mhuire na Trócaire also did really well in the poster competition:

School Winner: Niamh Tenanty and in the Interschools section the school won the two top prizes: Runner Up Inter-Schools Section: emily Gaynor, Overall Winner InterSchools Section Jordon Keenan.

Scoil Mhuire na Trócaire is currently working towards its seventh Green Flag award in 2012.

New home for St Francis NS SAINT Francis NS in Blackrock will get a new home after it was announced that the primary school can go to construction this year.

St Francis have been in temporary accommodation at the Community Centre for a number of

years and will now move to the new eight classroom school on the Rock Rd/ Old Golf Links Rd once the building is completed.

Senator Jim D’Arcy welcomed the news, saying: ‘This follows on the recently granted planning per-

mission by Louth Co. Council and is tremendous news for the Principal, Orena Lawless, the teachers, pupils, parents and the members of the Board of Management. All have worked very hard to bring this about.”

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Marist students win first chef challenge

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

The first annual Junior Chef Challenge saw a total of eight secondary schools and 16 students battle it out for the overall prize of €1,000 and the Junior Chef Challenge Trophy which was won by two students from St Marys College.

The challenge was organised in association with local business Tony Kieran Ltd and took place in the hospitality wing of the DkIT on Wednesday December 7. The competition was judged by celebrity chef and author Jenny Bristow who was given a tough task of selecting a winner.

“I enjoyed sampling all the various dishes and with standards so high

the ultimate winners were St. Mary’s College with Ultan Larney and Glenn McCourt, who cooked up a most innovative dish of Spicy Purkey Parcels and dessert of Pear & Cranberry Crumble served with Creme Fraiche.”

All the students and teachers involved commented on what a great experience they had in participating in the cookoff.

The winners were presented with their trophy and the winning school was presented with a cheque for €1,000.

The brief was “Healthy eating for your family and friends”, and the junior chefs had to cook 2 dishes with a total budget

of €20 or less.

Seamus Spaight, of Tony Kierans Ltd said: “Our aim in setting out this competition was to encourage children to eat healthy while at the same time supporting schools in our local community.

“The quality of what served up was absolutely fantastic. When you take into consideration the age of the students competing they have achieved so much. We were very impressed with their knowledge of the foods they were cooking.”

The students had only 90 minutes to prepare their 2 courses and worked in teams of two.

All the local secondary schools were represented

Traders are boosted by rates reduction

By Paul Byrne

Dundalk Town Council’s budget will be reduced by 8.98% in 2012 after Dundalk Town Council members voted through the Draft Annual budget in the town hall last week.

However, there was good news for the town’s traders when it was announced by County Manager, Conn Murray, that there would be a reduction of commercial rates of 1.5% for 2012.

Speaking at the December Annual Draft Budget meeting Mr Murray insisted that the people of Dundalk would not see a huge impact on services despite the reduced budget for 2012.

“There is no doubt that we are facing into even more difficult times. While there is a lot of doom and gloom and negative comment regarding our economic woes, I think it is important to look at the positives, particularly as they affect Dundalk.

“Although we are working on a reduced budget for 2012 we have made sure that vital services will not be affected in Dundalk. We have achieved this by ensuring increased costs are absorbed through efficiencies in the three councils in the area” he added.

Commercial rates were reduced for a third year in a row with Mr Murray saying he was ‘mindful that businesses were under pressure’ “As members are aware commercial rates have now been reduced cumulatively by 6.5% since 2009 and this was also preceded by no rate increase in 2009 and 2008. The provision for BIDs has also been absorbed within the annual budget since 2008.”

Mr Murray concluded that the budget he presented to the town’s councillors represented a fair and reasonable balance between maintaining essential services and social supports while ensuring that the impositions on the business sector continue to be restricted.

Broadway star in Dundalk

Margaret Kelly visited friends in Dundalk

patrons of a Dundalk restaurant were treated to a rare privilege over the Christmas period when Broadway Star, Margaret Kelly, provided an impromptu performance.

Margaret, who is visiting her good friend

Shane Kelly from Blackrock, was dining at Number 32 in Dundalk when she performed some Christmas carols and according to owner, Susan Heraghty, the feedback from her customers was incredible.

Margaret Kelly has

performed in such shows as Les Miserables , Broadway close up, Songs for a new world, The Full Monty, Lucky Stiff , Musicals Tonight , The 25th Anniversary Broadway National Tour of Cats, West Side Story, and My Fair Lady.

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and some students were as young as 12. Chef Jenny Bristow had her work cut, but she spent ample time with each team getting to know the students and discussing their menu choices as well as observing their cooking tech- Winners, Ultan Larney and Glenn McCourt, with Anthony Kieran and Seamus Spaight of Tony Kieran Ltd and judge, Jenny Bristow niques.

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DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

Gardai host community party in Clan na Gael

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Man aims to mend ways after church burglary

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Thomas Smyth (29) of 88, Doolargy Avenue who admitted among other offences a burglary at a local church and theft at a local hotel was put back for a report to see whether he was suitable to do community service as an alternative to a jail sentence.

Judge Flann Brennan said at Dundalk Court he would consider imposing a term of 240 hours instead of 12 months in jail.

The Court heard that a description of the defendant was obtained after a burglary at the Friary Church in the early hours of

February 26 last. Garda Inspector Martin Beggy said that the office at the church was ransacked and the keys of a safe stolen.

The defendant was located outside Dublin Street Post Office in possession of a plastic bag and a hammer with green paint on it. The door of the Post Office had green paint on it and indentations.

The Inspector said on May 18 last video footage showed the defendant leaning over the counter at the Imperial Hotel and stealing €55, and opening envelopes.

The next day he was arrested

and admitted this offence.

He also was searched on January 21 last at Hoey’s Lane and found in possession of €20 of cannabis.

Solicitor James McGuill said the defendant had undergone a serious change in personal circumstances since the offences. He was in a stable relationship with a seven month old daughter.

This had very much changed his attitude towards his former lifestyle. He was never before considered for community service.

Judge Brennan put the case back to March 28.

News

in Brief

Help for exam students

The New Year brings new prospects for students in Dundalk as Louth VEC launch their new initiative, Examprep.ie.

The program involves a targeted tuition in Maths, English, Irish, French, Biology, Geography, History and Spanish by experienced tutors in town centre locations.

They say they launched the initiative in response to the high demand for affordable after school tuition for those taking state examinations.

The aim of the classes is to develop an indepth knowledge of the exam paper layout and approaches to the different types of exam questions and offer comprehensive notes for each student. The scheme is a part of the Louth Night Classes.

The classes will take place from Monday to Wednesday in two sessions from 4.15pm to Josephine Pepper, Aura Sports & Leisure Centre (Competition Sponsors), Pat Hamilton, Deputy Principal, St. Pe- 5.15pm and 5.15pm to ter’s N.S., Dromiskin, Brian Knipe (Prizewinner), Marianne Butler, Chairperson of Dundalk Town Council & Oliver 6pm in the VEC premises Tully, Chairman, Louth County Council at Prizegiving Ceremony of Louth Local Authorities Primary Schools Road in Chapel Street.

Safety Art Competition held in Town Hall, Dundalk.

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Appliances

Blinds

Chimney Repair

Bathrooms

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Builder

Blinds Book-Keeping

Couriers

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

Electrical

Garden Sheds

Fuel

Heating

House Maintainance

Home Insurance & Claims

Locksmiths

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DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

Big vote to continue BIDS

By Paul Byrne

Skips

Skips

The Dundalk BIDS company will stay in town for at least another two years after the ratepayers of Dundalk voted in favour of continuing the scheme.

BIDS (Business Incentive District Scheme) which is run by the TCCM started two years ago with the aim of promoting Dundalk and rejuvenating the town centre.

The ratepayers of Dun-

dalk contributed 1.5% of their rates to BIDS which enabled the scheme to help ensure that Dundalk continues its progress to becoming a vibrant, exciting, sustainable town, attracting businesses and visitors, driving the local economy and enhancing the quality of life of residents of, and visitors to Dundalk.

517 voted in favour of continuing BIDS while 143 voted against. 2100 ballots were sent out with

a total of 660 valid forms returned. In the original vote for BIDS two years ago 296 voted for the proposal while 93 voted against.

Speaking after the vote TCCM manager Andrew Mawhinney expressed his delight at the result of the ballot and outlined goals over the next two years.

“Obviously we’re delighted with the result of the ballot and it was heartening to see that both

the vote turnout and the percentage in favour has almost doubled in size.

This shows that BIDS and TCCM have been given a clear mandate by the ratepayers of Dundalk to work alongside them in promoting Dundalk town centre.

“Over the next two years the four pillars of work which BIDS will undertake will be ‘Marketing and Promotion, events and Festivals, Investment and Law and Order.

Local Dreamplayer on Winning Streak Zoryana Vyslapu from Dundalk won €10,000 on the Dreamplayer on the Winning Streak gameshow on RTE. Pictured at the presentation of cheques were from left: Marty Whelan, Gameshow Host, Zoryana Vyslapu who spun the Dream Player wheel, Eddie Banville, Head of Marketing, National Lottery and Kathryn Thomas, host.

Motorist had moment of madness

Windows

A motorISt was observed performing a handbrake turn that caused his car to slide across the road just missing a footpath where there were pedestrians, Dundalk Court heard oliver Agnew (28) a mechanic of 29, Fr Finn Park, Louth Village was prosecuted as a result for dangerous driving for what his solicitor described as a “moment of madness.” t tara matthews explained that the defendant was on his way to the cinema. He carried out the manoeuvre turning the car round to get back to the cinema car park.

Judge Flann Brennan accepted a plea to careless driving by the defendant and fined him €300.

Olympic Torch will make visit to Louth

By Niamh Kirk

The committee organising the historic visit of the Olympic Torch to Ireland will be formed in the coming weeks and organisers have confirmed that one of the two phases of the procession will be taking place in North Co Louth.

Rumours that the handover would take place in Louth were sparked soon after it was revealed that there were considerations of the Torch travelling into Ireland via Belfast and Newry became public. Olympics’ Ireland were hopeful that confirmation of the unprecedented event would be forthcoming but still had to wait for approval from the international body.

The Olympic Council has

been forced to be particularly cautions regarding the Torch’s route as the Olympic Flame’s journey around the globe before the Beijing Games was marred by protests.

There were fears that again it could be used to highlight controversial issues within host nation but this has all been taken into account before the green light was given.

Jack McGormon a spokesman for Olympics Ireland confirmed that some schools and athletics clubs from both Dundalk and Newry will be involved in the ceremony but planning for the eveny is still in early stages and a shortlist of participants and associated events is not expected to be been drawn up until early 2012.

Ann McDonnell, Dundalk Town Council, Josephine Pepper, Aura Sports & Leisure Centre, Briege Galligan, Principal, St. Malachy’s Girls’ N.S. & Kristina Saroka (2nd Overall Poster) , Marianne Butler, Chairperson, Dundalk Town Council; front: Lian Nwauban, School Winner in the Colouring Section, at Prizegiving Ceremony of Louth Local Authorities Primary Schools Road Safety Art Competition held in Town Hall, Dundalk.

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

Prize winners in the Dundalk Credit Union Monster Cash draw with Bernie McCabe, Billy Doyle Manager and Sean McDonald Director of Dundalk Credit Union

Cricket club’s Christmas party DunDalk alk Cricket Club (DCC) celebrated an astounding year at their Christmas Party held in the Spirit Store.

The night was opened by Brendan Waters, Chair of DCC, who addressed the gathered players to congratulate all for their efforts which have seen the club to great success. The address was followed by a ‘less than serious’ review of the year by Eddie Bosano-

andrews and the presentation of the much deserved medals to the 26 strong team.

Marianne Butler, Chair of louth County Council was in attendance on the night to present trophy and pennant to the winning captains, Phil Osborn and Sajan Jeyaseelan. The team have much to celebrate having accumulated a number of accolades during their debut 2011

Season. DCC came out on top of their division unbeaten, the only team in leinster to do so across all divisions.

On the back of the achievements the team were promoted by leinster Cricket union two places into Division 9.

They will also enter a second team into the Championship for the forthcoming season.

They aim to be able to give younger players

a taste of competitive cricket on frequent bases and hope to repeat the successes of the 2011 season.

The team have much to look forward to in 2012 as they now have two teams in both Division 9 and 12 of the league.

They are wasting no time in seeing themselves to further success as the plan to start their new training schedule at the end of January.

Dundalk Cricket Club Party Night

Club Treasurer, Brian Morris with Marianne Butler and Club Vice Chairman, Gerry Murphy

and Irene l Kumar, Audrey Soh, Joan Teo Stefan Ponik, Anna Ponikova, Suni

Chong

Shane and Jean Gilson

Sajab Babu, Marianne Butler, Brendan Waters and Ahson Shaw

a and Eddie Bosano-Andrews with Maur

Kalkeren Kieran, Rory Watyerman, Waleed Shahid and Michael Mullen

Brendan Waters

Regina and Boomeeswaran Shanmugam with

Andrew Williams

Peter Kieran, Anne Treanor and Mithun Mathews

Kalkeren Kieran, Shane Gilson, Patrick Kavanagh and Ahson Shaw

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

OPEL FINANCE & WARRANTY Opel Ireland is delighted to announce the best finance offer on the market for all new Opel passenger cars - 0% Flexible Finance.

Financed through Credit Opel and underwritten by permanent tsb Finance Ltd., Opel’s 0% Flexible Finance offer means customers won’t pay one cent of interest – and they get to have it on their terms: Customers firstly choose their new Opel car and then select their deposit range from between 30 – 50%, with the term ranging from 12 – 48 months.

Not only that, new Opel customers will

also reap the benefits of Opel’s new 4 Year/100,000km Full Warranty plan.

There has never been a better time to purchase a new Opel. Along with the 0% Flexible Finance and 4 Year Warranty offers, customers can now choose their new Opel Astra, Corsa, Insignia or Meriva in tax band A (in diesel and/or petrol models); that’s annual road tax of just €160.

Commenting on the new campaign, Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland said: “The Opel brand is built on award-winning German engineering and design. With our most innovative

Opel range in terms of design and engineering, we’re giving Irish motorists our strongest ever Opel offer that simply makes the best sense in terms of true value for money.”

The Opel 0% Flexible Finance plus 4 Year warranty offer is available at participating Opel dealers and is applicable to retail sales only on all new Opel Corsa, Astra, Meriva, Insignia and Zafira Passenger car models registered between 1st January 2012 and 31stMarch 2012.

Terms and conditions apply to 0% Flexible Finance - see www.opel.ie for details.

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DunDalk D Dalk leaD ea er 4th January 2012

DUNDALK CREDIT UNION CAR DRAW WINNER

November Car Winner Elizabeth Loughran receiving the keys from Billy Doyle, Manager.

PASSAT ALLTRACK Details of the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack have been announced – the Alltrack adds four wheel drive (4MOTION) to the current VW Passat. The 4MOTION system ensures that the front wheels are usually driven, with only 10 per cent of the power going to the wheels under normal conditions, which in turn saves on fuel.

If necessary, almost 100 per cent of power can be sent to the rear axle, through use of an electro hydraulic Haldex clutch.

The Volkswagen Passat Alltrack has an off-road mode, similar to that on the Tiguan Escape.

When switched on it activates hill descent assist, which automatically brakes the vehicle when the descent angle is greater than 10 degrees. The ABS function is also altered, with higher thresholds for operation on loose surfaces, along with faster-reacting electronic differential locks (EDS) to prevent wheelspin.

The ride height is raised to increase ground clearance for off road use and there are body enhancements that provide protection from scrapes. These include stainless steel-look front and rear underbody protection pan-

els and flared side sills.

Other features include matt chrome roof rails, window surrounds, grille and exterior mirror casings.

At 4,771 mm, the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack is exactly the same length as the current Passat Estate, and despite flared wheel arch protection the vehicle’s width also remains the same at 1,820 mm. The suspension is raised to increase ground clearance from 135 to 165 mm, which also improves the ramp breakaway angle (significant when crossing the crest of a hill) from 9.5 to 12.8 degrees.

Ruggedly styled front

and rear bumpers increase the approach angle from 13.5 to 16 degrees, and the departure angle from 11.9 to 13.6 degrees.

The VW Passat Alltrack will be available with either a 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS with six-speed manual gearbox or a 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS with sixspeed DSG transmission. Standard equipment will include Alcantara upholstery, 2Zone electronic climate control, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system, MDI iPod connectivity, Bluetooth telephone preparation and 18inch alloys.

Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012

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Dundalk Leader 4th January 2012