1-05-2024

Xerox to cease manufacturing in Dundalk

By Paul Byrne

A SPOKESPERSON for Xerox confirmed to the Dundalk Leader on Monday evening that they will discontinue their manufacturing sector in Dundalk with a planned phased closure between July and December this year. Xerox began production in Dundalk amid much fanfare in 1999 with the promise of over 2000 jobs when the plant was in full production but just two years later the US company announced job cuts totaling 400 jobs at a time when around 1000 people were employed by the multinational corporation.

In 2008 a further 50 workers were made redundant by which time less than 500 people were employed at the Dublin Road plant. Earlier this year Xerox announced that they were aiming to reduce their worldwide work-

force in the first quarter of 2024 by 15% which equated roughly to 3000 staff worldwide and there were worries that their Irish sector could be affected by those cuts.

Those worries came to fruition this week with Xerox confirming that they were planning to cease manufacturing operations in Dundalk. Justin Capella, Media Relations and M&A Lead Corporate Communications confirmed that the Dundalk Manufacturing Plant would cease opeatons by the end of the year

“Xerox can confirm its intent to enter consultation with its employees on the proposed cessation of equipment manufacturing operations in the Dundalk, Ireland facility. Employee consultation will commence on April 30 with a proposal that the plant will have a phased closure between July and December 2024.

Continued on Page 2

A FOND FAREWELL FOR POPULAR PAT. Pat Sheridan retired from his job as an ambulance paramedic on Friday after 24 years in the job. Pat was given a guard

From Page 1

The decision to discontinue this manufacturing is a necessary step as we work to simplify our core products to align with the needs of today’s production clients.

Xerox’s toner manufacturing facility at Dundalk is not impacted.”

When asked by the Dundalk Leader, how many people would be affected by this announcement the Xerox spokesperson was unable to give exact figures.

“At this time, we are unable

to provide specific information, but can confirm proposed reductions will be subject to formal consultation with local works councils and employee representative bodies. We are committed to providing support for affected employees and treating all employees with dignity, respect, and appreciation as we continue this journey,” read the response.

Paddy Malone, from the Dundak Chamber of Commerce expressed his disappointment with the an-

nouncement and urged Xerox to treat their employees with decency over the coming months.

“It is always disappointing when we see manufacturing jobs leave the town and I express my sympathies to those workers affected by this announcement. We have a strong engineering tradition

in this town but unfortunately manufacturing jobs are under threat all around the world. We have to ensure we remain strong and attractive with regards to software, development and Research and Development,” stated Paddy.

“I would urge Xerox to treat their workers well and make redundancies voluntary or at least give generous terms to men and women who have given fifteen to twenty years of their life to the company. I would also ask that they treat them with

respect and I would suggest they have an obligation to tie in with Enterprise Ireland and the IDA to help identify other sources of employment.

“There is help at hand for any worker who needs to upskill and the Chamber’s Skillnet resource is a great help for anybody looking to upskill and help in finding alternative employment. I would also suggest the LMETB and DkIT as two other places locally who can help anybody looking to upskill,” stated Paddy.

Xerox to cease manufacturing in Dundalk Guard of honour as much loved paramedic retires

By Tamara O’Connell

A LONG-SERVING

ambulance paramedic has retired after 24 years with the service, and 40 years total as a HSE employee based in Dundalk.

Originally from Corduff, Co Monaghan, Pat Sheridan lives in Mary Street North with his wife, Geraldine. They have been married for 41 years. The couple have three children, Orla who is currently a trainee nurse; Niamh who is an advanced paramedic; Ciarán is a chef in the Irish Defence Forces.

They also have four grandchildren. Pat finished his long career based at Louth County Hospital on Friday last

and had a guard of honour.

Two weeks prior to his finish date, Pat was invited to a celebratory meal with 25 of his female colleagues in Dunleer.

“We went to The Valley Inn. There were around 25 of us and there was a wee presentation. We had a lovely meal,” said Pat.

“I teach a lot in Monaghan too so we had a get together in Monaghan after the last time teaching in Monaghan.

“When I first moved

to Dundalk, I trained as a barman and worked in The Wee House with Seán and Anita Kelly.”

Pat added: “After sometime I moved to Irish Life where I worked with my brother, Hugh. I later got a job as a care assistant helping the elderly in St Oliver’s. It was busy, physical work but I enjoyed taking care of people.

“After a number of years, I felt ready for a change and a new challenge. I am a volunteer with the Red Cross here locally; I’ve been

with the RedCross for 25 years.

“I also knew a number of people through my work who were ambulance paramedics so I decided to start my training for the ambulance service in 2000 in the Phoenix Park.”

He continued: “I trained in the National Ambulance Service College for six months and qualified as an Emergency Medical Technician initially.

“I went on to do more exams and later qualified as a paramedic. Now, it takes three

years to qualify.

“My intention is to keep volunteering for the Red Cross in retirement. I will help to take people to hospital for appointments and procedures.”

Pat concluded: “The Red Cross works with ALONE. I’d like to continue to serve the community.

“I also play the drums in the ambulance service pipe band and I’m planning to do a few holidays with my wife.”

Pat enjoyed a final farewell with his work coleagues at a special send off at the Ambulance Station in Louth County Hospital on teh Dublin Road.

Pat Sheridan on his final day at work with his wife Geraldine, son, daughters, grandchildren and son in law. Pat worked his final shift alongside his daughter Niamh who is an advanced paramedic.

Cllr. seeks reassurances about potential health risks of manganese in water

A LOCAL councillor has raised his concerns over the presence of Manganese in the local water supply and in a letter to the area director of Public Health he asked for reassurances that the water poses no health risks to the local population.

In his email to Deirdre Mulholland, Area Director for Public Health in Dublin and North East, Fianna Fail Councillor Conor Keelan asked the following question:

“Given that manganese is a chemical with known health issues and that it is present in the public water supply in the Dundalk urban area what steps will the HSE take in this region to alert the public to this fact and what steps will they take to have IW/ UE and relevant local authorities eliminate manganese and other hazardous chemicals from the public water supply?,”

In response Dr. Deirdre Mulholland stated that water treatment plans are specifically designed with appropriate mitigation measures to reduce the mineral content that is released into the distribution network.

“At levels as low as 0.02 mg/l, manganese as insoluble manganese oxides in water supplies may cause discoloured water and staining of laundry and plumbing fixtures. The presence of manganese in drinkingwater, like iron, may lead to accumulation of deposits in the distribution system.

“Even at a concentration of 0.02 mg/l, manganese may deposit in pipes as manga-

nese oxides, which may slough off as a black precipitate.

“The health-based guideline value of 0.08 mg/l for manganese is higher than the acceptability threshold of insoluble manganese.

“However, since dissolved manganese can also be released at the point of use or collection, the presence of discoloured water cannot be used reliably to assess if manganese is present.

“Therefore, aesthetic as well as health aspects should be considered when setting regulations and standards for drinkingwater quality.

“The Drinking Water Regulations 2023 have highlighted that the supervising authority for public water supplies in this instance, Uisce Éireann on behalf of the

Environmental Protection Agency take responsibility for communication of risks to persons on the public supply affected.

“There is no formal manganese elimination programme in place. When water treatment plants are designed, they take into account the raw water from the source –and if there are natively high minerals present (in this instance, manganese), the water treatment plans is specifically designed with appropriate mitigation measures to reduce the mineral content that is released into the distribution network. The HSE under the drinking water legislation is a consultee, while the enforcement around compliance with the drinking water standards sits with the Environmental Protection Age.

Following that response Cllr. Keelan reiterated his call for the EPA to determine if there is a threat to the safety and the drinking quality of the public water supply.

“Manganese is a chemical which can cause known health risks and discolouration, potentially arising from same, can give rise to brown or dirty water which can also cause stains to laundry etc while washing and damage pipes. It is for the EPA to determine if there is a threat to the safety and the drinking quality of the public water supply and they have a statutory responsibility in the management of our Water Treatment Plans as raised recently at Council level by my Fianna Fáil colleague Cllr Emma Coffey.”

Tributes paid to Greta following tragic accident

TRIBUTES have been paid to Greta PriceMartin, the 22-year-old college student who was killed while cycling in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin last week.

Originally from Templetown, Co Louth, but living in Dun Laoghaire, Greta died from injuries sustained in a crash with a truck driver last Wednesday morning. The crash occurred at the junction of the Glenageary Road Upper, Mountown Road Lower and Kill Avenue in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Greta was taken from the scene by ambulance to hospital, she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Her death notice on RIP.ie said she would be “Deeply missed by her devastated sister Ruth, brothers Jack and Louis,

partner Charlie, and her parents, Breffni and Vanessa, grandmother, aunts, uncles, cousins and wider family and friends.

“Greta had just finished her first year at IADT and just started her first job in film production, with everything ahead of her, when she was struck down cycling to work. She will live on in the hearts and

minds of her many family and friends.”

Greta’s friends and family gathered in the Eternity Room of Quinn’s Funeral Homes, Bridge Street, Dundalk on Sunday last to say goodbye while her funeral took place in the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross, Dublin, on Monday.

Cllr Conor Keelan.

The late Greta Price-Martin.

Sensational Showcase planned for 6th SEEK Urban Arts Festival

THE artists for SEEK Urban Arts Festival

2024 have just been announced and it’s an exciting line-up: Monkey Bird Crew, L7 Matrix, and Bublegum will be joining the festival for the first time, and returning for a second time is Mr. Copy. This sensational cast of international artists are expected to arrive in Dundalk between 31 May and 8 June and expectations are high!

With familiar themes, and some unorthodox approaches, these artists’ styles are

informed and influenced by genres spanning 15th Century etching to 20th Century graffiti art, and futuristic graphic art.

Town Centre Commercial Manager, Martin McElligott explained “As always, the source of inspiration for each piece will be Dundalk’s rich history and heritage. We are very excited about the new themes chosen this year, as well as revisiting and reimagining some of the older ones. Street art is characterised by its transient nature,

which contrasts with the more permanent forms of traditional art. It is also influenced by factors such as weather and pollution, and with passage of time these environmental factors contribute to degradation.”

This year marks the 6th annual SEEK Urban Arts Festival and it has become a highly anticipated event in the street art calendar. The festival’s humble origins as a creative regeneration project demonstrate how art can be a powerful tool for revitalising

town centres, fostering community pride, celebrating local culture and attracting visitors. Sarah Daly of Creative Spark, festival partner, is “looking forward to another year of excitement, colour and telling the story of Dundalk. We love producing the children’s workshops on the first Saturday of the festival with our Mobile FabLab, letting children express themselves through paint and get involved in imaging their own street art pieces.”

What does LUKE MING FLANAGAN

ACTUALLY do

Dundalk Tourism Officer, Sinéad Roche said “The festival’s increasing popularity highlights the cultural significance of street art as an opportunity to connect people to the places they visit. The murals bring our stories to life, making them tangible and accessible in everyday spaces, and bridge the gap between past and present.”

Moya Hodgers, Louth County Arts Officer and Creative Ireland Coordinator said, “The Creative Ireland Louth team are pleased to support the 2024 SEEK Festival. The public art murals have breathed new life into the Dundalk area and are a fantastic tourist attraction. The work the committee do throughout the year

with the walking tours is testament to their commitment to continuously promoting Dundalk. It has highlighted the town as a hub that embraces creativity and gives locals and visitors something to engage with and enjoy throughout the year. I look forward to seeing the new works unveiled and wish the team the very best of luck with the festival.”

Martin concluded, “It has been incredible to work with our project partners Creative Spark and Louth County Council, and alongside our longstanding sponsors Colourtrend Paints and Creative Ireland. This year’s festival is also kindly sponsored by Fáilte Ireland and McAteers The Good Food House.”

Council to replace broken pedestrian lights at Avenue Road Bypass Roundabout

DUNDALK Municipal District councillors have issued a statement confirming that the zebra crossing plan for the junction at the bottom of the Avenue Road has been scrapped. Instead a push button pedestrian light system will be installed ‘as soon as possible’.

“Dundalk MD councillors are happy to report that the executive of Louth County Council are no longer progressing with their plans to install Zebra Crossings at this junction.

“The council have confirmed that a specialist company has already been engaged to scope out what works are required to ensure a functioning pedestrian light system is in operation in line with the current push button control pedestrian light sys-

tem (including assessment of Controller, supporting electrics and any other infrastructure as deemed required to achieve the above).

“The company was onsite Monday 22nd April , and as soon as timelines become available, the councillors will be updated. The council executive have assured the Dundalk councillors that any works deemed required will be expedited as quickly as possible.

“Following the Special Meeting of Dundalk Municipal District on Monday 15th April, the Dundalk councillors met and agreed to send a resolution to the Chief Executive requesting that the broken pedestrian light system be replaced, noting that sufficient budget had been pro-

vided for to do these works.

“Having received this resolution, the Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Ms Joan Martin considered the concerns that had been stated by members at the special meeting especially for pedestrians seeking to negotiate this extremely busy junction. She confirmed her decision to the councillors that the replacement of the existing elderly and obsolete lights is the best option.

“The councillors are looking forward to this issue being resolved and for works to replace the faulty pedestrian light system to commence as soon as possible,” read the statement which was issued on behalf of the Dundalk MD councillors.

RECRUITING FOR EVENING SHIFT

Temporary posiTion, Fixed Term ConTraCT.

Gernord Ltd, Carrickmacross., established since 1968, are part of a French based multinational operation, and are one of the largest PVC flooring & wall Covering manufacturers in Europe.

We invite applications for the following positions

PRODUCTION OPERATORS: Required for effective and efficient running of the continuous manufacturing process, ensuring Quality plus Health & Safety levels are maintained to a high standard. Manufacturing experience ideally required. It is important that candidates can embrace ongoing change and engage in continuous improvement programmes, be flexible, versatile, have good communication and team building skills, plus good attendance is expected. Honesty, accountability, and a good working attitude is essential. Forklift licence is important, not essential, training is available.

NOTE: Fixed Evening shift, 40 hr /week, 4pm-12 mid-night €15.60/hr plus a 20% shift allowance. Vacancies immediate, as 4-6 weeks, training is required, if a new employee or even a previous employee.

Also require 1-2 operators to work Fixed Night shift, 40 hr /week, 12 midnight - 8am, €15.60/hr plus a 35% shift allowance.

Please forward full CV details or complete application form, available at reception, and send to:

FRANCIS DUFFY, General Manager, Gernord Ltd., Ballybay Rd, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, A81YD83. 0876893662. francis.duffy@gerflor.com.

Central CE Scheme Ltd

Invite applications for the position of

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANT SUPERVISOR

Central CE Scheme Ltd is seeking applications for the position of Community Employment Assistant Supervisor. This is a full-time position consisting of 39 hours per week over five days with a 52-week contract.

Community Employment is funded by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) with the aim of providing work placements and training opportunities for people who are long term unemployed in order to enhance their employability.

THE ROLE:

• To assist in ensuring the effective and efficient administration and co-ordination of the human, financial and material resources of the project.

• To support the supervisor with the day to day running of the project.

• To manage and monitor attendance records of all participants on the projects

• To maintain all financial records and prepare monthly financial reports

• To assist the supervisor in the recruitment process

QUALIFICATIONS:

Desirable Not Essential Candidate Requirements:

• have attained a major 3rd level qualification: (NFQ Level 6 or higher) in Business/Financial Administration, Training, Human Resources Project Management, or related disciplines. Minor/ component awards at Level 6 or higher are insufficient.

• have not less than 1 year’s supervisory experience.

• have good report writing skills.

• have strong ICT skills.

Application instruction:

Email cover letter and CV to centralce@gmail.com with ‘C.E. Assistant Supervisor’ in the subject line.

Closing date for applications is Friday 16th May @ 5.00 pm.

Ciara’s disappearance the subject of new TG4 documentary

AR Iarraidh is a new four-part documentary series by Midas Productions for TG4 which tells the stories of those missing through the eyes of their family and friends. The first episode focuses on the disappearance of Dundalk teenager Ciara Breen in 1997. Despite exhaustive investigations as well as searches in Dundalk, Ciara has never been found.

On 13th February 1997, Ciara Breen disappeared from her home in Bachelor’s Walk, Dundalk. She was never seen again. For over 20 years Ciara’s mother, Bernadette Breen, lived with the uncertainty of her only child’s faith, before sadly passing away.

A local man became the main suspect after there were concerns raised regarding the relationship he had with Ciara. Even with these concerns, there wasn’t enough evidence to make an arrest at that time. Regardless, the

search for Ciara went on.

Years after Ciara’s disappearance, in 2015, did a search take place in an area called Balmer’s Bog, after a new lead detective, Pat Marry, began investigating Ciara’s case.

On the night she disappeared, it was suspected that Ciara had been wearing a floral dress, so there was great hope when a dress matching that description was unearthed in the bog. The dress was photographed and

placed in evidence. The investigators were hopeful that Ciara’s mother could identify this as her daughter’s dress, although Bernadette could not confirm that it was.

Bernadette never got an answer to her final appeal. She died on the 28th of June 2018. Ciara and Bernadette’s remaining family are appealing to the public to come forward with any information they might have on what happened to Ciara that night.

This programme looks at a family who continue to ask the questions their loved ones never got answers to. We also have interviews with the now retired lead investigator on the case, Ciara’s former teacher, local journalists, and a former colleague of Bernadette Breen.

Ar Iarraidh – Ciara Breen airs on Wednesday 1st May at 9.30pm on TG4 and on the TG4 Player.

TikTok Must “Promote

Digital Safety”, Says CEO John Church

By Daniel Beauquis

ISPCC CEO John Church has told Dundalk Leader Social Media app TikTok should do more to “promote digital safety” in light of the recent Prime Time Investigation that found 13-yearold users of the video-sharing platform were being shown “disturbing content” by its algorithm.

In response, Church said that “whilst shocking” it will “come as no surprise” to those working to “safeguard” young people and children from harm in Ireland.

He added “Since February alone, 145 children have reached out to us at Childline to talk about self-harm”. John Church said to Dundalk Leader that while TikTok can be a “fun environment”

he reiterated “it is high time steps are taken to address dangerous algorithmic amplification”.

During the experiment by Prime Time, the content was then shown to the Chair of the Faculty of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

in the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland, Dr Patricia Byrne who said “I work in this area every day… but even for me, seeing that was very emotional and provokes a very strong, very strong emotional reaction,”.

She further added “I didn’t expect to feel as emotional as I did watching it, but they’re very powerful imagery and very intense.”

John Church finally added in his response that: “We must have the correct regulations and comprehensive legislation in place so that platforms cannot be permitted to continuously bombard children and young people with dangerous content.”

Ciara with her late mother Bernadette on her Confirmation Day.

John Church, CEO, ISPCC.

Local filmmaker launches fundraiser to help fund new feature film

By Tamara O’Connell

A DUNDALK-based film-maker has launched an online fundraiser to help support a dark thriller she has written and hopes to direct.

Originally from South Armagh, Sinead Murphy currently lives in Dundalk town centre and has been working in the film industry for over 20 years.

“It’s a feature film which will be made by Oriel Films and will be filmed at various locations around the North East,” said Sinead.

“It’s an independent film and we have managed to secure some fund-

ing from Louth County Council but we need to raise around €70,000 more to complete the project.

“We aim to shoot at the end of June or July this year so we have set up a GoFundMe page to help raise some money for the film.”

Sinead added: “We need to cover insurance costs, transport and equipment. We are hoping the local community will get behind this project.

“We are hoping local businesses and entrepreneurs will reach out to us. We will be filming at some familiar locations.

“Fundraising is difficult but we have

not other choice. Hopefully, this will be the start of other productions being made in this area.”

She continued: “So many people are supportive of it, especially people in DkIT. We did the casting last week in An Tain which was very exciting.”

For more information or to make a donation please go online and visit Fundraiser by SINÉAD MURPHY : Fund a locally made independent feature film (gofundme.com)

Local actor/writer/director Baz Black is also involved in the film and he will be hoping that it can be as successful as his last movie ‘Dublin Crust’

Populism not the motivation for Cllr Yore’s poster proposal

LOCAL Councillor Maeve Yore told Dundalk Leader she is not being “populus” on a proposal rejected by Louth County Council to have one poster per candidate in the 2024 Local Elections in order to protect the environment.

Cllr. Yore who topped the poll in the last local elections in 2019 said that during the 2014 elections posters covering the equivalent of 23 Croke Parks were erected across the country.

“Corrugated plastic, commonly known as Corriboard is the material of choice for election posters. Like other single use plastics, they take 400+ years to biodegrade.

should be confined to one or no posters,” stated Maeve.

which had a six week cinema run and also went to Number 1 on Amazon Prime, staying in the top 10 for 3 weeks.

“I am delighted to be involved as both a Producer and an Actor in this feature film written and directed by Sinead Murphy. We held a brilliant two day casting call out and saw some wonderful actors in An Tain.

“It is a powerful script with relevant topics that I feel will relate to lots of people. My production company Sure Look Productions alongside Oriel Productions are really looking forward to the journey of getting the movie made and out there.,” he stated.

Cooley Community Alert World Earth Day

“In the 2014 local elections, 2038 candidates ran for 765 seats. An estimated 611,000 posters were erected with a combined cost of €3M with posters covering the equivalent area of 23 Croke Parks.

The motion headed by the Councillor “That all current elected representatives and election candidates will adhere to the voluntary code of practice (from Tidy Town Groups) not to erect election posters for local elections in 2024 and forthcoming election campaigns across Co Louth and agree a prime location across each Municipal & Borough District to display one poster per candidate to show commitment to the environment.”, was one of the first motions in a special meeting following the March Monthly meeting to be addressed by Louth County Council.

I don’t think that it is unfair that other candidates with differing concerns about Louth

The motion was henceforth rejected by 16 councillors to two including Councillor Bernie Conlon alongside Maeve Yore.

Louth Tidy Towns Election posters plea

LOUTH Tidy Towns

Together, representing Tidy Towns groups in the county, is asking all candidates in the upcoming local and European Parliament elections to voluntarily comply with their request not to erect posters within the 50km/h speed limits and at landscaped approaches to 20 designated towns and villages in County Louth.

A spokesperson for the group explained

“We are seeking a voluntary commitment from candidates to avoid erecting posters in these designated areas, and feel that this limited restriction on where posters are erected is a reasonable compromise between the need for public engagement with the election process and the aesthetic and environmental considera-

tions that concern our member groups.

We have been very pleased with the high level of compliance with similar requests at all elections and referendums dating back to 2018, and we hope that everybody campaigning this time around will also comply with this voluntary code”.

The 20 towns and villages involved are Annagassan, Ardee,

Blackrock, Carlingford, Castlebellingham/Kilsaran, Collon, Dromiskin, Dunleer, Grange, Haggardstown, Knockbridge, Lordship/ Gyles Quay, Louth Village, Monasterboice/ Tenure, Omeath, Sandpit, Stabannon, Tallanstown and Termonfeckin. In Dundalk the core area of Market Square, Clanbrassil Street and Earl Street is also included.

TO mark World Earth Day Cooley Peninsula Community Alert joined forces with the amazing volunteers of the Louth Volunteer Centre and others from ebay, the cross border orchestra, and its regular committed Peninsula Marine Litter team who were aided and supported by Aidan Gray from Cleancoasts to do a large clean up in Rockmar-

shall along the shore. Aided by the 30+ Louth Volunteer centre a huge total of over 150 bags of litter were removed in just over 2 hours.

Chairperson of the group Michael Muckian commented it was brilliant to have the volunteers which encompassed so many nationalities presents and welcomed their passion to give some-

1—Louth’s senior football team qualified for their second successive Leinster Football final on Sunday. Who did they beat to reach the final?

2—Which song starts with the line, “On a dark desert highway?”

3—Born in Essex, England in 1899 which hugely successful film director/producer was nominated for 46 Academy Award nominations (winning six) in a career spanning from 1919-1980.

4—What is the most common street name in Ireland?

5—What have Dundalk men

thing back to area. He praised Olivia and Emma from the centre who supported him in facilitating their volunteers. The Volunteer Centre provided support for many groups like ours and we were delighted to have them on board.

The sun came out and the only disappointment was that more living locally didn’t while peo-

James McGeough, Tommy Quinn, Peter Dixon and Niall Kehoe all got in common?

6—Which Irish saint is commonly known as The Navigator?

7—Who played the part of Eamon de Valera in the 1995 film “Michael Collins”?

8—What is the largest artery in the human body?

9—What were the names of the thre non human main characters in kids tv series ‘Rainbow’ which ran on ITV from 1972-1992?

10—What name is given to a

ple travelled from Drogheda and Armagh to join in Chairperson Michael Muckian commented and that keeps our coastline clean requires a community effort and he urges people to join in the upcoming cleanups near them.

It was mainly plastic, tins, cans bottles the usual collected which all appeared washed in from Dundalk Bay.

person who believes that the existence of God can be neither proved or disproved?

The Stinker—If the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were still around today, in which modern day country would you find them?

Volunteers from Cooley Community Alert joined forces with Louth Volunteer Centre to do a large clean up in Rockmarshall along the shore.

Sinéad Murphy, Oriel Films and Baz Black from Sure Look Productions.

Cllr Maeve Yore.

By Daniel Beauquis

Grammar School Enterprise Stalls

Caitlin Murray, Daniel Moore and Eva Geng.

Teddy Rowe, Tristan Warnock, Jonathan Malone and Milo McEntegart.

Daniel Duignan and Yusuf Basak.

Sarah Malone, Joanne Kihara and James Pilbeam - TY Students.

Dagan McCreesh and Blake Jackson.

Islagh Hollywood and Ivanna Malone.

FAMILY NOTICES

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

T.D. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

T.B. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

J.F.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

A.D. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

B.A. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

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

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

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

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/ Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.

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

SAINT Vincent’s Secondary School Dundalk Transition Year students recently went on a ‘’Camino Style’’ walk along the scenic Green Way from Omeath to Carlingford to raise money for St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) in Dundalk. The students were inspired to join in after being part of the ‘Young SVP programme,’ which focuses on helping people in need. The funds they collected are vital for the charity.

The Dundalk branch of St. Vincent de Paul is incredibly thankful to these students for their ongoing help and appreciate the St. Vincent’s TY Students for their kindness and hard work. This collaboration between the students and SVP shows how people can come together to help others. Every step of their walk symbolised their commitment to improving things for those struggling. By supporting initiatives

like this walk, the students aren’t just raising money—they’re also learning about empathy and social issues.

The Young SVP team is involved with schools around the country and in 2022 approximately 8,000 students learned about the work of SVP, explored social justice issues, and were supported in designing and delivering activities to address needs in their communities.

GARDEN MAINTENANCE—Hedge

cutting, Lawn cutting, Powerwashing, fencing. Slabs laid. Contact Brian 086109-7358.

FIFI’S ALTERATIONS— 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. Please note, we do not repair Clocks.

POWER WASHING/Garden Services

- all garden tidy ups, lawns, hedges, pathways, Gutters, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048.

GW PAINTING AND DECORATING—

No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVICES—

Over 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Available services: Doors, Frames, Floors, Skirting, Architraves, Walls, Built in Units, Fencing/Gates, Plaster boarding and Roofing Services. Complete renovations carried out. Contact Mark 086 0895508.

MAN WITH A VAN— Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728.

ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE services carried out. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Gerry your local man 087 6461556 or 042 9327241 after 6pm.

PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—

ANAM CARA HEALING—Holistic company providing Psychic Tarot Reading, Reiki, Crystal Therapy and Aromatherapy. Phone for appointments 0864591226 or visit www.anamcarahealing.ie”.

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.

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

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

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

MAN IN A VAN—House moves, furniture delivery/removal, yard/garage clearances, recycling & rubbish removal. Call Will on 085 860 4048 for a competitive quote.

ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.

LANDSCAPING—Flower beds tided up, outdoor cleaning, patios, footpaths, walls, general property maintenance, exterior painting of fences, gates, walls, etc and decking cleaned. Dundalk & District. Tel. Jim 086 3818184.

FAITH & SPIRITUAL HEALING available for general wellbeing, skin conditions, asthma, chest problems and sinuses. Further information call Faith on 087 7188450.

MEADOW VIEW LANDSCAPING— Trees, Hedging & Grass Cut. Power Washing and General Garden Maintenance. Serving the people in Dundalk for 26 years. Contact Ken 087 9548114.

GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm—10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

WEEKLY SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink Retail Park, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www. djk-creations.com.

FRENCH GRINDS AVAILABLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.

Interior and exterior. Also available for Power washing, Garage, House and Garden clearance. Furniture removals. Tel Brian 087 7558506.

CHARA COUNSELLING— 20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-762-3758 for quotation.

LAWNS CUT— Hedges cut and gutters cleaned Tel Tom 087 2296441.

CARPENTER— Fully qualified available for all aspects of carpentry. Tv units, paneling, doors or floors call James on 0871833091.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE— Promotes overall health & wellness, cleanses the body, builds immune system, eases lymphedema & oedema, improves circulation, eases stiff joints, fibromyalgia, bloating and good for allergies. Contact Annamarie on 0867300231.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Emmet Ryan, intend to apply for retention permission for an existing single storey store to the rear of my dwelling and a new hard standing area for the parking of cars with all associated site development works including surface water drainage details at 28 Lennon Melia Terrace, Armagh Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 P7T3. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard Dowdall - MRIAI - Architect—Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitects.ie.

NOVENA

Helen Grant, Dundalk SVP Area President

Vincent’s TY students. The students went

Style’ walk to

Wheelie Bins

For a free no obligation quotation

Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513

Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2 After hours by appointment

or replace your Velux

NEWS in Brief

Volunteers Wanted

The Lion’s Club Dundalk prides itself on serving those in the locality ‘We Serve Where We Live’. People may be familiar with various charitable efforts and fundraisers carried out by the Lions Club around Dundalk such as their Fill a Bus Food Appeal, and the upcoming Poker Classic. They are inviting volunteers to assist in delivering meals on certain weekends. Local Council Candidate for Dundalk-Carlingford, Ciarán Fisher said ‘It’s a very worthwhile use of time and a rewarding thirty or forty minutes give or take the odd chat’. People can reach out by messaging Dundalk Lions Club Facebook or John on 0851234003.

Taize Prayer

All are welcome to “Prayer Around The Cross”, in candlelight, a Quiet and Reflective time, with the music of TAIZE. Friday 3rd MAY 8pm -9pm. “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk A91W0C 9. Tel: 042-9331602.

Community Training Centre

Students from the Dundalk Community Training Centre recently paid a visit to Professional Beauty and Hair Ireland held at the RDS in Dublin. The hairdressing group had a fantastic time linking in with top global brands and various Irish Startups. The Dundalk Community Training Centre is currently recruiting for its VTCT Level 2 Hairdressing Course and will be having an Open Day on Wednesday the 15th of May 2024, between 11am-2pm. Other courses include Driving Theory, Woodwork, Art and Design, Health and Fitness and Employment Skills. The Dundalk Community Training Centre is located at Mulholland Avenue Dundalk A91 H670.

Library

Events

Exercise and Ageing with Paul Bolger – Thursday 9th May at 11:15am in Ardee Library and at 2:30pm in Dundalk Library

Paul Bolger is a Chartered Physiotherapist passionate about improving the health of the community in which he lives. He believes in the power of movement, education, and community. We are delighted to welcome him to Dundalk and Ardee Libraries as part of our Bealtaine Festival in conjunction with Healthy Ireland at your Library. Booking is via Dundalk and Ardee Libraries, please see details below:

Ardee Library on Thursday 9th May at 11:15am, Tel: 0416859023 to book your place.

Dundalk Library on Thursday 9th May at 2:30pm, Tel: 042-9353190

Heineken 8L Blade Keg €43.53

Birra Moretti 8L Blade Keg €43.49

Budweiser Pint Cans

24x568ml €40.00

(ONLY €1.67 A PINT)

Carlsberg Pint Cans

24x568ml €32.88

(ONLY €1.37 A PINT)

Heineken Pint Cans

24x568ml €39.00

(ONLY €1.63 A PINT)

Guinness Draught Pint Cans

24x568ml €51.76

€2.16