01-03-2023

By Tamara O’Connell

THE owner of the well-known Dundalk pharmacy Leavy’s is “over the moon” that his missing Santa decoration has been returned following an appeal.

Dermot Leavy of Leavy’s pharmacy on Clanbrassil Street is the proud owner of Dundalk’s first electrical Santa.

“It was made in Germany and purchased by my grandfather in the 1930s. It’s over 80 years old so a lot of people have special memories of this Santa,” said Dermot.

“When my grandfather died it was passed onto my father who took care of it over the years and then it was passed on to me.

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‘Claus’ for celebration as missing Leavy’s Santa is found

I’m Back! ‘Claus’ for celebration as missing Leavy’s Santa is found

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“It went missing in January 2015 when we were getting some extensive building work done. We had things packed up in boxes to be removed while the work took place.”

Dermot added: “Santy must have been packed up too and put in a box and removed. We didn’t notice he was missing until five days later.

“I didn’t do anything about

it at the time but the following year I launched a campaign to get Santy back.

“I put a notice up in the store window seeking information on his whereabouts. I never believed he had gone to landfill.”

He continued: “I knew that if someone opened a box and found him that they would keep him.

“It wasn’t until earlier this year that we got word of a

possible sighting. I wanted proof so I asked for photographs.

“I wasn’t interested in seeing photographs of Santy in a white, plain background or in the window as I had those photographs already.”

Dermot said that two photographs of the electrical Santy were sent to his phone and he knew instantly it was his beloved missing Santy.

The Santy was finally re-

turned home to Dermot at Leavy’s Pharmacy on Saturday, February 18.

“We are thrilled he is finally back with us. He was in box that said do not throw out and it had a letter written to my father from a Mrs O’neill in Ravensdale detailing her childhood memories of Santy,” he said.

“unfortunately, we didn’t get the letter back. We will have him on display in

Leavy’s window until the end of the week,” he said.

“He has had an MOT by a technician who has rewired him. I feel a great sense of responsibility because my grandfather bought him and my Dad looked after him.

“He went missing on my watch. He’s spanning generations in Dundalk. He will be back on display in november 2023, just before Thanksgiving.”

Dundalk woman honoured for ‘incredible’ contribution to cancer clinical trials

A DunDALk native praised by her colleagues as an ‘incredible support’ towards clinical trials that offer vital hope to patients was honoured at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards on Monday.

Ashley Bazin (née Smyth), who is originally from the town and is now based in kildare, is Team Leader of the Oncology and Haematology Clinical Trials unit within Tallaght university Hospital.

Since first coming into the role in 2006 she has seen the team grow from three to eight staff, with Ashley performing multiple important functions including as a research nurse, team leader, manager and mentor to others. Her work involves offering patients access to cancer clinical trials that seek to identify improved treatments, and explaining what’s involved, as well as meeting them regularly on their trial journey, and ensuring that all assessments are done and tracking data to prove the trial’s effectiveness.

In her nomination for the award, Ashley was described by those she works with as someone ‘who always strives to bring the best options to patients’, and who is ‘integral’ to the functioning of the unit.

Speaking on her award, Ashley said: “It’s so rewarding working with patients in this role. You’re constantly offering hope with the new treatments available, which is very satisfying.

“When I saw what was written about me for the nomination it brought home all that’s involved in the role which you never really think about day to day. It’s nice to feel that someone thinks you’re doing a good job,” added Ashley, who recently returned from a respected trials conference in San Francisco.

Congratulating Ashley on her award, Irish Cancer Society Acting Head of Research Dr Claire kilty said: “Ashley is an incredibly valued member of her team, which is clear from the glowing tributes paid to her given her extensive experience in bringing cutting-edge clinical trials to patients. This award is truly fitting recognition of her amazing efforts in this space.

“It’s a real testament

to the work of our dedicated cancer researchers around Ireland to see such a flourishing environment for forwardlooking research projects including clinical trials, and it’s great to be able to recognise the amazing effort they put into making people’s lives better at such a difficult time.”

The 2023 Irish Cancer Society Research Awards was the first event to be held in person since before the pandemic in 2020.

The event comes ahead of the return of the Society’s Daffodil Day fundraiser on Friday March 24, which provides crucial support for ground-breaking cancer research. For information on how to give or get involved, visit www. Cancer.ie.

Dr. Claire Kilty presenting the award to Ashley Bazin (right).

A delighted Dermot Leavy is reunited with Santa Claus.

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‘Sword of Damocles hanging over Paypal workers’

PAYPAL workers in Dundalk and Dublin are ‘still none the wiser’ as to whether the company’s announcement of 2,000 job cuts will hit them or not, according to Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Dundalk TD said he had written to the company last week seeking an update, because it will be one month on Tuesday, February 28, since the American multinational announced a seven percent reduction in its global workforce.

He also raised the matter of PayPal in Dundalk with An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during Taoiseach’s Questions last week in Leinster House, telling the Fine Gael leader he was worried about the jobs, on the day that Google announced 240 positions would be cut from their Irish operations.

And in a written response to the Sinn Féin deputy last week, Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney said: ‘On 31 January 2023, PayPal’s CEO announced that the company would seek a 7% reduction of its global workforce, or 2,000 people globally.

‘As with any global announcement, it can take some time for the impact at local level to be determined and we currently await detail of the impact on employment in Ireland.

‘The IDA Ireland engages regularly with PayPal as part of the Agency’s ongoing support for the company.

‘The IDA has good relationships with Irish and corporate management at PayPal which is a key employer in

the state and the Border Region. Recently, IDA Ireland has actively engaged with PayPal in both Dundalk and Dublin regarding transformation, upskilling and the potential for RD&I activity to be carried out in Ireland.

‘Throughout IDA’s engagement with PayPal, the company has reaffirmed that Ireland is a location is of strategic importance to PayPal’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The PayPal quarter four results for 2022, released earlier this month, show an increase in revenue of 7% to $7.4 billion, despite a ‘rough’ 2022.

‘However, despite the announcement on January 31 of 2,000 job cuts worldwide, the workforce in Dundalk and at their other site in Ballycoolin, have not had any indication as to whether they will be affected by redundancies.

‘Having contacted the company last week, on foot of contact with employees at the site in Dundalk who were asking for an update, PayPal has advised me that they ‘don’t have any information in relation to Ireland at present.

‘While I understand that the company has to advise the stock market of the planned reduction, many people were thinking that after the February 9 results announcement, the locations of the cuts would be made clear.

‘This hasn’t happened and it is difficult for anyone to work in a job when the Sword of Damocles is hanging over them’.

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Local sporting heroes to lead St Patrick’s Day Parade

DunDALk’S St Patrick’s Day parade will be led by sporting champions after the committee revealed that boxer Amy Broadhurst and multi-event athlete kate O’Connor have been unveiled as grand marshals for the March 17 event.

Amy, fresh from her weekend gold medal win in the 74th Stranja Memorial Tournament, will be joined at the head of the Dundalk St Patrick’s Day parade by kate who last month smashed the Irish pentathlon record.

kate, who has competed in multiple events as an athlete, is a Commonwealth Games silver medallist and has been named in the 16-strong Irish team for next month’s European Indoor Championships in Istanbul.

Amy’s win at welterweight over German opponent Leonie Muller, has secured her spot in Ireland’s squad for June’s European Games, which is an Olympic qualifier.

Amy was also named

as the 2023 Her Sports Athlete of the Year for 2023 last week, having picked up the Irish Times Sports Woman of the Year title in 2023.

The Dundalk St Patrick’s Day parade voluntary committee, which is made up of councillors Conor keelan and Maeve Yore, along with Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú, Shane McBride, Dagan Fleming, Maria O’Toole and Anne Campbell, said they were ‘thrilled’ to make the announcement about the joint grand marshals.

Speaking on behalf

of the committee, Cllr. keelan said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled that both these sports super stars have agreed to lead the parade in Dundalk this year.

‘We are aware of how busy they both are with their training and competition schedules, but we are delighted they are taking time out to be the grand marshals at this year’s parade and we know they will received a rapturous reception from the crowds along the route’.

The parade, which starts at 1pm, will follow the traditional route

along Clanbrassil Street, around Crowe Street, Francis Street, Park Street and will finish at Tesco on Dublin Street.

The parade is sponsored by Louth County Council, and has also received funding from PayPal, Dundalk Credit union, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, Oriel Windfarm, Digiweb, SEO Solutions, Dundalk BIDS, Bk Forklifts, Print Express, Pelican Promotions, Digital Screen Displays and Stage and Lighting.

This year will see a number of new features, including a ‘quiet’ part

of the parade from utopia on Dublin Street to the end line at Tesco, so that those with sensory issues can enjoy the parade too.

In addition, there will be a special viewing platform for wheelchair users and those wishing to use it must register through the links section on the website at stpatricksdaydundalk.ie. And there is still time to register your group to take part in the parade, which can also be done through the website. The closing date for entries is Monday March 8 at noon.

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Kate o’Connor. Amy Broadhurst.

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Coláiste Chú Chulainn make basketball history

COLAISTE Chú Chulainn beat St. Finians College Mullingar 5246 in an entertaining encounter in the u16 Boys All-Ireland Schools League final at the National Basketball Arena Tallaght.

Dundalk’s David Osagie took home the game MVP (Most Valued Player) for an 18-point performance, which included some fiercely contested rebounds when the game was in the melting pot.

The game was played at a frenetic pace throughout the first, as the teams traded scores.

Cú Chulainn captain Franciszek Chmielecki showed the leadership

required to get separation between his team and Mullingar. Solal Parra dropped a perfect three-point shot, quickly followed by a David Osagie free-throw to leave

an 11-7 gap in favour of the Dundalk school.

That advantage grew to five after some slick kevin Mincans shooting grabbed him 5 points in the space of 18 seconds.

A hotly contested third quarter proved to be the difference in the game. David Osagie imposed his will on the offensive and defensive glass, while also hav-

ing his most productive scoring salvo, 8 points of his final total coming at this crucial juncture. He wasn’t the only one making his shots though. Chmielecki and Fahd nii-Adjei Monney also making big contributions, the latter coming up big with the final score of the quarter. St. Finians College were doing their best to stay in touch. Ryan Bell, John Akinnola, Volusko Opala and keaveney all took turns to step up for their team and leave just six between the teams, 3832 in favour of Colaiste Chú Chulainn as the final quarter began.

Consecutive threepoint shots from

Chmielecki and Parra to start the fourth quarter appeared to have put an end to the Westmeath schools resistance, but an unerring shooting performance from Ryan Bell reduced the gap back to five on two occasions. They couldn’t get any closer though.

Colaiste Chú Chulainn had the experience to keep the scoreboard moving in key moments, taking shots late in the shot clock, thus limiting the chance for a comeback by their opponents.

A Franeck Chmielecki free-throw as time expired was the icing on the cake in a famous win for the Louth school. The school team has

made history in winning an All Ireland title in it’s ninth year.

“Our students are trail blazers. They have worked tirelessly for this title. Many of the players are with Dundalk Ravens and we enjoy the club’s support and co-operation” said Mr kelvin Slowey, coach.

“Their success is not over as Franciszek and his team mates mentor the younger teams who have their eyes on further regional and national finals in the coming weeks.” Mr Slopwey’s assistant coach is Mr Aaron Murray, locally renowned for his footballing skills with Geraldines GFC.

Dundalk wedding planners win national award

A DunDALk-based company Wow Weddings & Events are proud to announce they have won the “Wedding Planner of the Year 2023” award by Weddingsuppliers.ie on the 7th of February in a gala event held in Johnstown Estate, Enfield.

Wow Weddings was started over 20 years ago by Ollie and Paula Flood and has since grown to become one of Irelands leading Wedding & Event décor

companies offering their services nationwide. They provide everything from wedding décor, room draping, fairy light backdrops for behind the top table, ceremony and church décor, full wedding planning and recently have invested over €100k in new, top class printing equipment and design team bringing Creative Print & Design to Dundalk.

Wow Weddings & Events and Creative

Print & Design share a 4000 square foot showroom just off Coes Road in unit 3, Centenary Business Park and offer appointments with their dedicated wedding team to help you plan your big day.

To get in touch or to request a brochure from Wow Weddings or chat about your printing requirements with Creative Print and Design, email info@wow-weddings.ie or call 087 993 2357.

1—Can you name the legendary BBC football commentator who passed away last week?

2—What is the young of a goat called?

3—Benazir Bhutto was twice the Prime Minister of which country?

4—Series, sheep and cod are all examples of what in the English language?

5—Can you name the only street in Dundalk that starts with the letter Y?

6—Which imperial unit of measurement takes its name from the Latin for a thousand?

7—Which movie which was released on

this day 25 years ago (1998) would go on to become the first ever to gross over $1 billion worldwide.

8—Often used in letters and emails what does the abbreviation PS stand for?

9—Usually which is the biggest key on a computer keyboard?

10—In terms of area put these European countries in order from biggest to smallest. Netherlands, Ireland, Denmark.

the stinker: Theoretically what is the minimum number of strokes with which a tennis player can win a set?

—this week’s answers—

1—John Motson, 2—Kid, 3—Pakistan, 4—Words that have no plural (zero plural words), 5—Yorke Street, 6—Mile, 7—Titanic, 8—Post Script, 9—Space bar, 10—Ireland (27,133 sq miles), Denmark (17,179 sq miles)and Netherlands (15,907 sq miles). Stinker: 12 (Three service games full of aces. The other three games would consist of three service games full of double faults from his/her opponent)

Local events for Seachtain na Gaeilge

TODAY marks the start of Seachtain na Gaeilge which celebrates our native language and culture that takes place each year. Seachtain na Gaeilge takes place between the 1st and 17th of March and there are plenty of events locally to help celebrate our national language.

A song workshop will be held on Saturday 11 March at 14:20 in Conradh na Gaeilge on Seatown Place, as part of nationwide Seachtain na Gaeilge events to celebrate and enjoy our heritage as Gaeilge.

Local singer, Ciara Hall, will teach three songs in Irish gathered from the local tradition of Louth and Armagh. Tickets cost only EuR5

- more details in peig. ie/imeachtai/ceardlannamhranaiochta/.

Coláiste Chú Chulainn was an arena of excitement and joy on Friday. 2oo students travelled to the national arena to support their school mates while the school canteen was set up as an auditorium for the remaining 600 students to watch the livestream event.

Coláiste Chú Chulainn team: Solal Parra, Fiyan Olaleye, Franek Chmielecki, Joan Duran, James Bisan, Bright n’kongolo kadima, David Osagie, Fahd niiAdjei Monney, Matthew Messin, kevin Mincans, Mahdi Gahyr. Coaches: kelvin Slowey & Aaron Murray.

Ne WS in Brief

Beekeeping Classes

(The 2023 Beekeeping for Beginners training course starts on Monday the 6th March at 7:30pm in the Teagasc centre Dublin road, Dundalk and continues for 7 further Monday nights)

Knights of Hibernia

John Boyle O’Reilly Society, 30 Clanbrassil St., Dundalk. The annual General Meeting to be held on Sunday 12th March 2023 at our offices on Clanbrassil St., at 12 noon sharp. All members welcome.

Living Well Programme

Dún Dealgan which is being organised by Cumann Scoildrámaíochta will see local primary school students take to the stage as they look to impress the watching judges. Admission is just €1 for children and €4 for adults. All are welcome.

Last but not least there is a fun night planned in McGeoughs on Friday the 10th March with Mr and Mrs as gaeilge taking place at 9:15pm.

Take your friend or partner with you and show how much you know about each other by answering questions about your loved ones during the fun game. There are some great prizes to be won on the night.

This programme supports people to develop the skills and confidence to live with their health condition. There are spaces available on our March Programme. To book your place please contact www. hse.ie/livingwell or Aine 041 6850676 or 087 1140371 or Joanne 041 6860710 or 087 4308735. This is a free online 6 week course.

Music of taize

Welcome to all, 18-40 years, this Lent, to a time of peace and silent prayer in candlelight, with music of TAIZE. Friday 3rd March 8-9pm (followed by tea/coffee) “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk A91 Woc9. Tel. 042-9331602

The victorious Coláiste Chú Chulainn basketball team celebrate.

There is also an Irish language drama competition that will take

place on Thursday 9th March at 10am in An Tain Arts Centre. Feile

Keith Barry - Irish Mentalist and Hypnotist, Ciara Murphy - Wedding Coordinator Wow Weddings, Laura Bizna - Sales & Marketing Director Wow Weddings, Sarah Kennedy - Irish Wedding Blog

The Fitzer 5k has become one of the most popular road races in town since it began and this year’s tenth edition of the race didn’t disappoint with almost 400 walkers and

Crowds flock to Fitzer’s 5k

runners taking part in the race which is in aid of the maria Goretti children’s Respite and Rehabcare Dundalk centre.

The race which is organised by local TD Peter

Fitzpatrick was started to try and help local services which provide vital services and over the last 10+ years many thousands have been raised to help out organisations like the

maria Goretti Foundation Respite centre and Rehab care Dundalk centre.

The race always proves popular given it’s town centre location with the

race starting and finishing at the marshes Shopping centre. The course is also a flat one which makes for fast times for the more serious runner. This year’s race was won by Sean

Tobin from clonmel a c in a time of 14:31. The first local home was Donnchadh macaodha from the North east Runners in a time of 15:37 with his teammate Declan Toal

just eight seconds behind in fifth spot. The ultra consistent Laura Mathews was first lady home in a time of 18:43 for her club North east Runners.

Declan toal, Anita Bolton, Peter Fitzpatrick t.D and Mark o’Connor at the Fitzer 5K on Saturday.

Alan Duff, Louise Finlay, Brian Duff and Frank Meade from Ardee District Athletics Club.

Deirdre Quinn, Gene Yore, Peter Hughes, Chris McShane, Mark McCumiskey, John Fahey and Peter Fitzpatrick t.D.

Ciaran toner and Liam Fergus ahead of the Fitzr 5K race on Saturday.

Molly Phelan, Jason Kelly and Michelle Ryan at the Registration desk.

Gene Rice and Peader Lambe at the Fitzer 5K race on Saturday morning.

eimear Martin and Sharon Leslie in the Marshes for the Fitzer 5k run.

Jennifer Gibbs and Aoife Parrella at the Fitzer 5K run on Saturday.

eithne Coleman and Mary McConville took part in the Fitzer 5K run on Saturday.

John Poland, Beth toner and Peter toner at the Fitzer 5K on Saturday.

Declan toal and Peter Fitzpatrick t.D.

Summer of Seek Urban art

THE organisers of SEEk urban Arts 2023 have announced that this year’s festival will start on Saturday 1st of July and will run over a number of weeks with an exciting line-up of themes to be explored including links to our mythological past, industrial legacy, and Anglo-norman heritage. The festival is focused on utilising the arts, alongside Dundalk’s cultural heritage, to help regenerate, refocus and enrich the overall perception of the town in a highly visual and artistic way. This will be the 5th year of the festival, which also lays claim to having the tallest mural in Ireland as part of its collection, when it commissioned the depiction of Lugh (Lú) on the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dundalk.

Sarah Daly, Director, Creative Spark, said she and “the team at Creative Spark are delighted to partner with Dundalk BIDS once again to deliver Seek Festival 2023. Building on the past

four years success, we hope this year will be even bigger and better, supporting artists and celebrating our town.”

Martin McElligott revealed “It gives us great pleasure to announce the second instalment for this year’s festival,

Lady Roesia de Verdun of Roche Castle, one of the most powerful female figures at that time in Ireland.

“To get a good account of a place we really need to peel back the layers as far as we possibly can, and the

different moments and people that sit between those layers. Over the last few years, the SEEk urban Arts murals have become part of the DnA of the town, a fingerprint of our unique identity and backstory. We are very excited about the

themes that have been chosen this year and the artists that have been chosen to bring these stories to life.”

Louth Heritage Officer, Brendan McSherry, added “Lady Roesia de Verdun is often portrayed almost as a pan-

tomime, or fairytale villain, as an intimidating, scary and even malevolent figure, who had few scruples.

“However, she was also a wife, a mother of five children, a widow (several times) and, most unusually in this period of history, a castle builder – in fact she was the only woman ever to build a castle in Ireland, making her one of the most powerful women of her time!”

The artists undertaking this legendary piece are ‘Studio Giftig’ and consist of the netherlands-based artist duo niels van Swaemen and kaspar van Leek. They met in 2007 and the pair developed a common style of painting and are now renowned for their highly detailed realistic murals. Out of 100 nominees, in 92 cities, in 30 countries, Studio Giftig were recently announced as the Street Art Cities ‘Best of 2022’ worldwide winners so it will be exciting to see them in action here in Dundalk Town Centre!

Netherlands-based artist duo Niels van Swaemen and Kaspar van Leek wil take part in this year’s SeeK Festival. the acclaimed artists will be in Dundalk this July to begin work on a new mural.

Turas Transformational Recovery Programme

TuRAS Counselling Services are a Dundalk based not for profit organisation who offer a range of free confidential supports to people at all stages of addiction.

Based at 59 Clanbrassil Street they work with people from across the north East region who present at different stages of the addiction cycle.

Turas will host a free ‘Transformational Recovery Programme’ starting on March 13th which will take place on Monday’s and Tuesdays from 10-3:30pm for fifteen weeks. The programme is designed to create an understanding, non-judgemental and supportive

environment. It helps people to personally develop in their recovery from addiction.

The programme runs two days a week with a weekly two hour group session for new participants to familiarize themselves with a therapeutic group. A range of workshops are offered on topics including relationships, relapse prevention, anger management etc underpinned by a focus on building a better future using a backdrop of nature, art and drama.

The course is suitable for people who are over 18 years of age, one month drug/alcohol free, available to engage in two full

days of group work a week for fifteen weeks and able attend one counselling session per week.

If on a methadone programme, the client must be stabilized for a period of one month. If there are past mental health concerns, the clients current mental health must be stable. If on prescribed medication, the service user must be medication compliant. This service is provided free of charge to recovering substance misusers within the north East area who fulfil the above criteria. For further information email info@turascounselling.ie or call 0429338221 or 0429338224.

Venture Scouts represent Dundalk

WORLD Scouting celebrate 100 years of Jamboree in 2023 and a group of Venture Scouts from Dundalk are frantically fundraising to enable them to participate in this truly historic expedition.

One of the highlights of their tireless fundraising endeavours takes place in the Marshes Shopping Centre, Dundalk on Saturday 4th March and Sunday 5th March.

The Venture Scouts are challenging themselves to traverse the distance from their Scout Hall on Castletown Road to the Jamboree venue in kandersteg International Scout Centre in Switzerland.

For this group of Venture Scouts, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They will meet with young people from around the world; whilst challenged with robust hikes high in the Swiss Alps, high-energy activities, workshops on sustainability, global events and youth trends.

Dundalk can proudly declare an historic legacy to the origins of World Scouting. The founding father of Scouting, Lord Robert Baden Powell, was sta-

tioned in Dundalk Aiken barracks between 1894 and 1895. Whilst stationed in Dundalk, he voluntarily instructed soldiers in Ravensdale Forest Park in skills which he thought would be useful to them.

Within 11 years, Lord Baden Powell wrote a book entitled “Scouting for Boys”. This publication is generally regarded as the start of the World Scout movement.

Dundalk can claim another unique legacy to World Scouting; one of the first scout groups in Ireland was established adjacent to St Vincent’s Secondary

School, indeed a plaque is displayed to this day.

With all this unique history on our doorstep, it’s no wonder that our Venture Scout Group are keen to represent Dundalk Town at the 100th celebration of Scout jamborees.

The Jamboree will take place in the Swiss Alps in kandersteg International Scout Centre in Switzerland, over 12 days, from 27th July to 8th August 2023.

All donations towards their exciting and historic expedition will be very welcome. Further information is available from stpatricksscoutgroup@gmail.com.

Benefit night for Calvin is a huge success

FRIEnDS and family of the late Calvin Curley Gray have thanked everybody who supported their successful benefit night which took place in the Clans hall last week. Last September, eleven-year old Calvin sustained injuries after falling through a perspex roof at a premises on Clanbrassil St. The Redeemer Boys School pupil was airlifted to Temple Street Children’s Hospital but sadly he died two weeks later from injuries he sustained in the fall.

The news of his death was met with shock and sadness in the local community with tributes paid to the popular youngster by his school and sports teams including Shamrocks FC, Clan na Gael and Deal-

gan Boxing Club.

Calvin’s aunt Denise Hughes organised a benefit night in her nephew’s memory with all proceeds going to Calvin’s family to help with the expenses for the funeral and headstone. The night was very well supported by the local community and Denise and Calvin’s family wanted to thank everybody who helped make the evening a success.

“On behalf of Calvin Curley Gray’s family, we would like to say a special thank you to everyone who bought tickets and all of the businesses in the town who donated spot prizes. There are far to many names to mention individually but we just wanted to thank you all so much.

“The benefit night was a huge success and a special thanks has to go to Calvin’s beloved clubs, Shamrocks FC and Clan na Gael as well as Gino’s Diner, Christine Lee, Shauna McEneaney, kim Mackin, Elaine Slammon as well as everyone else who helped to make the evening such a success.

Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts,” stated Denise.

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

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

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. for sale—Two Fireside chairs. Contact 042 9352962. free 8X6 ft Wooden Shed, good condition free to take away. Will need to be dissembled. Also 2 seater sofa free to take. Dundalk Town. Tel 086 8251854.

chiMney & stove cleaning—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094. chiMney cleaner—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799. advertise your service to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. 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.

nOVena

novena to the sacred heart

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted.

(Never known to fail)

l.p.

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). d.W.

r oofing r e Pairs & Stoves. Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

garden & house Maintenance

Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

ProPerty Maintenance—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758.

f ifi’s a lterations —Longwalk S.C.

(formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

watch rePairs—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478.

Power washing Get ready for Spring/ Summer. Power washing of driveways/ paving/walls. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 8604048.

builder & hoMe Maintainence Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

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.

sc t iling—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane 086 107 5080. griMley ’s dublin st dundalk Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. dundalk garden services—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact—Ben 085-840-7707. fortune teller—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.

b uilding s ervices—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.

roof leaks Master—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.

c ar P entry & j oinery—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.

Medjugorje Pilgri M age—One week. Leaving on the 6/9/23. Darko House. Fully bonded operator so you have peace of mind. Contact Phyliss 0872028492. l ady with g ift of Healing for Skin conditions, Eczema, Psoriasis, Chest problems, Asthma. 3 consecutive visits needed. For appointment please phone 087 7188450.

g et fit the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. f rench g rinds available for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340. druM lessons including bodhran—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

Part-ti M e far M w orker required, may suit school leaver, own transport essential. Culloville/Castleblaney Tel 087 2662558.

2004 Ford Focus Ghia for sale. 1.6l petrol, good body and engine. €600. 0872110464.

g reenfields Music tours —Invite you to join for our 1 nights stays to see the cream of Irish Folk and Ballads. Price includes accommodation, bus and ticket. Contact Anthony on 085 1204994.

Podiatry/ c hiro P ody treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794. local Power washing —No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. Contact James 089 9705466 for free quotation.

Painter available —Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

Plastering s ervice available, free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

c ar P et and uP holstery cleaning.

Home and Office contract cleaning. Over 10 years’ experience. RTM Cleaning Services contact Robbie 087 3817618.

dds Painting & Decorating Services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel David 085 7308777.

r etired reliable local man available for Painting & Decorating, Internal and External,30 years’ experience, also grass cutting, strimming. General Garden Maintenance and Garage Clearance, Contract Gardening considered. Keen prices. Tel 086 845 9472.

g ardening —Lawns cut, hedges cut, trees trimmed and topped. Telephone Tom 087 2296441.

Painting Interior and exterior painting. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 8604048.

louth county council—I, John McBride, intend to apply for full planning permission for infill development @ Crois Croinn, Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of the construction of three apartment blocks in a mix of residential units. Block 1 consists of a three storey apartment building with a ground floor 5 Bed shared accommodation apartment, 6no. 1 Bed units, 2no. 2 Bed units and 2no. 3 Bed units. Block 2 consists of a three storey apartment building with 9no. 1 Bed units and 6no. 2 Bed units, Block 3 consists of a three and a half storey apartment building with 6no. 1 Bed units, 8no. 2 Bed units and 5no. 3 Bed units. Full permission to including access road, car parking with provision for electric charge points, cycle storage and plant room bin storage outbuilding and all associated site development and drainage works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

louth county council—We, MWAC Ireland Ltd, intend to apply for Full planning permission for a housing development of 3 dwellings in a mix of 1no. 4 bedroom detached and 2no. 2 bedroom terrace units @ Rathmount, Blackrock, Co. Louth. Full Permission to include alteration to existing site entrance and all associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

the late calvin curley gray.

st. Patrick’s scout group 1st/2nd/5th louth, castletown road, dundalk

DkIT celebrates increasing number of female apprentices

DunDALk Institute of Technology (DkIT) are absolutely delighted to report a significant growth in the number of female apprentices who have recently enrolled in the Institute, which included an intake in Motor Mechanic, Electrical and Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices over the last 6 months.

Women make up less than 5% of the national apprenticeship numbers, so the recent increase of females registering in the trades heartens the Institute as DkIT is a proud supporter of equality in all industries and fields of education. DkIT is the recipient of the prestigious international Athena SWAn Bronze Award by AdvanceHE in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality in academia, and in promoting diversity and inclusion for staff and students in higher education, so breaking gender barriers is something the Institute constantly strives towards.

Dr Breda Brennan, who herself is the first female Head of School of Engineering in DkIT said; “We are absolutely delighted to see the substantial increase of females enrolling in Apprenticeships in the Institute. There are phenomenal opportunities for young women within the trades and we have had numerous extremely talented women who have completed their

apprenticeships in electrics, mechanics and carpentry & joinery over the years. We have a long and proud history of female apprentices in DkIT, and we are delighted to report some of these women are now part of our teaching staff”.

Aoibheann Corrigan went straight from second level education into her Motor Mechanic Apprenticeship and is now on her phase 4 block said “I grew up around cars and my dad always had vintage cars at home which I loved working on, so starting an apprenticeship always made sense

‘Take a chance’ and watch St Louis’ abba musical

to me, I love training to be a mechanic and I get up every morning looking forward to the day ahead. I know I’m exactly where I should be, following the perfect career for me”.

Apprenticeships start with employers – industry input is vital to ensuring this method of progression is available to young people. To obtain an apprenticeship, you must be recruited by a prospective employer who will register you with SOLAS and only then can the training programme begin.

DkIT offers apprenticeships in Electrical, Motor Mechanics, Plumbing and Carpentry in conjunction with the LMETB - Louth and Meath Education and Training Board.

Apprenticeships are an ‘earning and learning’ route to a qualification. The system of employmentbased training and education enables a person to obtain the skills, knowledge and education required to satisfactorily perform the core skills of their chosen trade whilst having the opportunity to earn while they learn. Apprenticeship is the recognised means by which people are trained to become crafts people in Ireland. Apprenticeships typically take four years to complete, and the qualification is recognised on the national Framework of Qualifications.

THE dancing queens from Transition Year in St. Louis Secondary school are busy making final preparations for their production of “Mamma Mia!”.

Following initial auditions and many months of rehearsals, the cast of over eighty students will take to the stage on three nights from Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th March and for matinee performances on Tuesday 7th and Thursday 9th.

“Mamma Mia” is set on a small Greek island and uses the ever-popular music of Abba to tell the story of Sophie’s search for her father. Expect lots of toe-tapping tunes, great dance scenes and plenty of fun and romance!

Cast members include Orlaith O’ Hare as Sophie, Rhiannon Dolan as her mother, Donna, and Beth Brady, Mollie kirk and Jessica Zhang as So-

phie’s potential Dads, Sam, Bill and Harry. This lively musical will have the audience up on their feet, dancing in the aisles, by the end of the show!

The show will take place in the school hall, with doors opening at 7pm each night.

Tickets are available from the school.

“Take a chance” to

say “Thank you for the music” as these talented students take to the “Super Trouper” spotlight for a fabulous night of entertainment!

Aoibheann Corrigan. Motor Mechanic Apprentice.

Beth Brady, Mollie Kirk and Jessica Zhang.

Rebbeca Lawrence, Aoibhe Sullivan, Megan Roe and eirin Finnegan.

c ar m a I n T enance & r epa I rs

The average age of a car at scrappage is around 14 years, while the average age of vehicles on the road is closer to eight years. But, there are some simple steps you can take to maintain value and give your car

the best chance of reaching its golden years.

STiCk TO The ServiCe SChedule

Regular servicing is vital to keep your car in tip-top condition and prolong its life.

Service intervals are

H ILL St R eet, D UBLIN R D., D UNDALK .

042 9331515/086 2559201

based on time or miles driven – once a year or every 10,000 miles, for example.

Check the handbook

to find out when your car is due a service and what work is required.

Many modern cars

have warning lights on the dashboard to alert you when maintenance is needed, too.

You should budget for a ‘minor’ service once a year and a ‘major’ service every two or three years.

A minor service includes changing the oil and oil filter, and replac-

ing other fluids if necessary. Depending on the car

and mileage, a major service may also cover replacement of the air

filter, spark plugs and timingbelt.

The number of tasks included in even a minor service is numerous, but all should include checks for oil and fluid leaks, tyre pressures and condition, excessive exhaust emissions, brake wear, and the correct operation of the steering, gearbox, clutch, suspension, lights, wipers and horn.

It sounds basic but keeping on top of your car’s servicing is the best thing you can do to get the most out of your car and to maintain reliability. The investment in an annual service will save you pounds on repair bills and potentially avoid a stressful breakdown.

hAve YOur TYreS CheCked

Tyres are arguably your car’s most important safety feature and it’s no exaggeration to say that checking them

c ar m a I n T enance & r epa I rs

regularly – about once a week – could save your life.

Under-inflated tyres will also increase fuel consumption, so keep them topped up to the recommended pressures listed in your car’s handbook to save money.

Remember, tyre pressures may be different for the front and rear tyres. Some experts suggest rotating your tyres (i.e. swapping the fronts to the rear, and vice versa) in order to even-out wear and prolong tyre life.

however, in the interests of safety, we recommend using the leastworn tyres on the back axle, as loss of front grip (understeer) is much easier to manage than a rear-end slide (oversteer).

Check the level of tread on your tyres regularly – the legal minimum is 1.6mm but you should think about changing them when

they are between 2mm and 3mm – as the less tread you have, the less effective the tyre becomes. And don’t forget to check tyre pressure too, and look out for signs of wear or damage which could result in a blow-out.

drive SmOOThlY

Driving with ‘mechanical sympathy’ is something you should practise at all times. That means using the controls of your car while understanding how it works.

Doing so will reduce component wear and you’ll make your fuel go further. Simple things like using the steering wheel, gearbox and pedals smoothly are key, along with looking well ahead to reduce the need for sudden braking.

The more aggressive you are on the pedals the higher your fuel and repair bills are likely to be. Driving smoothly is kinder to your car and the environment, plus

accelerating and decelerating in a controlled manner and anticipating the road ahead will save you pounds on your fuel bill.

That said, if you never rev your engine fully, carbon deposits can build up and foul the valves, intake manifold and other parts, reducing efficiency and potentially causing a misfire.

You should therefore allow your engine to rev to the redline at least once every few hundred miles – but only when the oil is warm and you’re on a quiet road.

Diesel cars may also have problems with clogged diesel particulate filters (DPFs), which are designed to trap harmful exhaust emissions. A longer motorway run once a month will help clear them.

hAve YOur CAr CleANed reGul ArlY

We all know people who never wash their

car (and perhaps you’re one of them!), but keeping your car clean isn’t about vanity: it can significantly extend your car’s life, too.

Grit gets into moving parts and the chassis, leading to accelerated wear and corrosion.

Bird droppings can play havoc with paintwork, and winter road salt is especially corrosive.

Automated car washes have stiff brushes that may leave fine scratches – plus they miss bits, too so having your car hand washed is usually much more thorough.

A yearly polish will provide a layer of protection and prevent rust from spreading.

It’s also important to keep the inside of your car clean with a microfibre cloth and to remove any dirt and crumbs from floor mats. It sounds obvious but keeping your car clean and the bodywork sound will help maintain

its condition and keep its value when it comes to selling and trading up to a new vehicle.

keeP The weiGhT d OwN

Motor manufacturers are constantly looking at ways to reduce the weight of their vehicles to increase the miles per gallon and to meet the emissions requirements. So it makes a lot of sense for you to keep the weight carried by your car to a minimum wherever possible. Carrying extra weight is a sure-fire way to dent your car’s fuel economy.

You’ll also put additional wear-and-tear on your tyres, brakes and suspension. A practical solution is simply to remove any unnecessary objects from the car.

Start with the door pockets and glovebox, then look under the seats for any stray toys or drink bottles.

Moving on to the boot, clear out everything you don’t need. Just remember to leave the toolkit, jack and locking wheel nut key in case of emergencies.

cdti diesel. Silver, 107km, tax 3/23, NcT’d 11/23. €2,700. Tel 086 0660136.

You May need a new mattress…

✔ if you ‘ve had your mattress over seven years or more

✔ if it makes suspicious noises in the night

✔ if you would be embarrassed to let anyone see it without its covers on

✔ if you sleep better in a different bed

✔ if you wake up feeling unrefreshed and aching

✔ if you and your partner roll towards each other in the night

✔ if you don’t have enough space to sleep comfortably

✔ if your current one is saggy or feels lumpy

We will offer you a discount on any new bed or mattress and we will take away and recycle your old mattress for free