02-02-2022

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Dealgan House families vow to fight on Page 2

Dance Kids sparkle on return

TY students are out of this world

Page 10

Page 13

Wednesday, 2nd February, 2022. Vol. 15, Issue 5 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Life-saving legacy of tragic death

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

By Paul Byrne

The family of a Dundalk man who died shortly after collapsing from a cardiac arrest, have donated a defibrillator to the shop where the incident occured. Two days before Christmas, in 2019, 60 year old Micéal Hinchey from Aisling Park, Dundalk, was out walking on his daily trip to the Centra Shop on the Castletown Road, when he collapsed as he arrived into the forecourt. Staff and customers rushed to his aid with local man Michael Duffy giving Micéal CPR while they waited for an ambulance to arrive. Michael was able to get a pulse for Micéal and when the paramedics arrived he was rushed to the ICU in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

Sadly, Micéal had suffered a substantial brain injury from the cardiac arrest and passed away on New Years Day 2020. His heart-broken son Niall Continued on Page 2

St Brigid’s Day Crosses

5th Class Gael Scoil Dhun Dealgan assisted by Una Curley to make St Brigid’s Day crosses.

20% OFF ALL ACCESSORIES FOR one WEEK ONLY (2nd - 9th Feb) E A R L S T R E E T, D U N DA L K - 0 4 2 6 0 3 0 9 2 3

Life-saving legacy of Micéal Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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From Page 2 decided that he did not want another family to experience the heartbreak and sorrow his family had suffered and so shortly after his Dad’s passing he along with his brothers John and Christopher as well as cousins and friends of the family began to fundraise with the aim of buying a defibrillator.

According to Niall’s wife Niamh the response to the fundraiser was fantastic.

“Niall, and his brothers and his cousin Darren were the driving force behind the fun-

Colin Fee, company owner, and Niall Hinchey beside the defibrillator and plaque for Micéal. draiser and they were selling goal times all around our area for Premier League games.

The response from our neighbours and friends

was fantastic and after a lot of hard work we reached our target figure of €1500. The plan was to install it outside the Centra shop where

Mickey collapsed and we have to thank Paddy O’Hanlon and Colin Fee in Centra who not only agreed to let us install it but also gave us a donation and also purchased the cabinet for the defibrillator.

“Colin has also committed to getting all of his staff trained up on how to use the defib and he has also pledged to fit one in each of his four shops in Dundalk (Centa, Castletown Rd, Centra, Greenacres, Maxol, Dublin Rd and Maxol, Avenue Road).

“The family are also eternally grate-

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Families who lost loved ones during a devastating Covid 19 outbreak in Dealgan House say they are ‘not dissuaded’ by Taoiseach Michéal Martin’s comments in the Dáil which ruled out a commission of inquiry into the tragedy.

On Tuesday, Louth TD Fergus O’Dowd asked An Taoiseach about setting up a commission of inquiry into the deaths of 23 people at Dealgan House Nursing Home in Dundalk in April and May 2020.

Mr Martin said a commission of inquiry was not the way to go.

In a statement, the families, who have mounted a campaign for an inquiry into the deaths, said they were ‘not dissuaded’ in their fight for the truth about what happened to their loved ones.

The families, who have met with Ministers Stephen Donnelly and Mary Butler at the Department of Health; HSE chief Paul Reid; CEO of the RCSI Hospital Group, Ian Carter and a number of other key players, said their campaign would continue.

The families said: ‘Our position remains constant. We want to find out the truth about what happened to our loved ones and we need the

government to give us a mechanism that enables this.

‘We are not devastated by anything the Taoiseach says and we are certainly not dissuaded by what he says.

‘We have come to realise that the lives of older people are not afforded the same worth as others, and this is what is disappointing beyond measure.

‘We are not giving up. We believe that the truth always finds a way. We believe that the silence and resistance we have met from the upper echelons of government and the health service is unique.

‘Dealgan House remains the only facility that a hospital group assumed operational control of in the first wave of Covid 19.

‘Documentation we have uncovered shows the HSE and HIQA were aware of staff shortages in the home from April 6 2020.

‘The HSE deployed staff to Dealgan House the week of April 6 including a highly experienced nurse.

‘From April 6, 2020, Dealgan was struggling with staffing, while the families remained oblivious to the unfolding crisis. Indeed, a family was told the day before

that Dealgan was ‘running slightly tight but were having a meeting with the HSE the next day, so they should be OK’.

‘EU commissioner Mairead McGuinness raised alarm about Dealgan in government on April 11 2020 which resulted in then health minister Simon Harris alerting HSE CEO, Paul Reid.

‘A former director and owner of Dealgan House contacted Minister Harris and CMO Tony Holohan on the night of April 12 requesting help.

‘Why did it take five more days for the RCSI Hospital Group to assume operational control? Why was it necessary to do this? What finally prompted them to take this exceptional step?

‘While we have worked hard over the last two years to get access to as much information as we can, we cannot reconcile many of the various narratives given by the former owners of Dealgan, the HSE, HIQA, the RCSI and others.

‘We require a mechanism whereby this information, and a lot which has not been given to us, is looked at and the truth finally found’.

Witness appeal following hi-jacking of car Gardaí are investigating the hijacking of a vehicle in Dundalk after a car was stolen on the N52 at Racecourse Road Dundalk on Friday, January 28, 2022.

The incident occurred shortly af-

ter 6.30pm when the driver of a Volkswagen Golf was approached and threatened to hand over the keys of the car.

The car was then stolen. Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have wit-

nessed this incident or who may have video footage, including dash cam footage to make contact with them at Dundalk on (042) 9388400.

No arrests have been made.

An investigation is ongoing.

ful to Michael Duffy who administered CPR on Mickey and got his heart back going which gave his family an extra week with him and allow them to say their goodbyes. We installed the Defibrillator outside the Centra on the Castletown Road along with a plaque in memory of

Micéal.

“It was brilliant to see just how people supported our fundraiser and because of their generosity we now have a community amenity that will hopefully keep people safe for years to come and contribute to Micéal’s legacy,” stated Niamh.

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Couple’s fundraiser to care for stray cats

By Tamara O’Connell

A COUPLE in Faughart, are raising money to help take care of stray and feral cats in the area.

Katie Lloyd-McMahon and her partner, Dave, live on the Hill of Faughart, a scenic area steeped in history.

“Unfortunately, it’s also an area that is simply overrun with stray and feral cats,” she said.

“We’ve been living here for nearly six years now and we’ve almost lost count of the number of cats that have come Dave McMahon and Katie Lloyd-McMahon with through our garden.

“We try and help as their cat Mac.

many of them as we can; they are never neutered or spayed and are normally in fairly rough shape.”

Katie added: “Often malnourished, they are almost always suffering from horrible ear mite infestations.

“They are also often FIV+, which means they require some additional care and we’ve even had to pay for operations to have teeth removed when they suffer badly with stomatitis.

“First, we feed them and try to get them into a routine of coming to the house every day, then we assess whether they are

friendly or truly feral.”

She continued: “We use a trap to catch the feral cats and a regular carrier for the friendlier ones and then its straight to the vets for a well needed check-up.

“When we first moved here, we had just the one house cat, but we now have five. All are strays that we have taken in from the garden.

“Obviously, we can’t always keep them, so we either rehome them if friendly or we return them to the garden once neutered/spayed and given the all clear by the vets.

“We continue to feed, provide medical care and of course lots of love and attention to all the outdoor cats.”

The couple are trying to raise some much-needed funds to enable them to continue providing food and medical attention to all the cats in their care and to other cats in need.

“Most importantly of all, if we had a proper ‘kitty’ specifically for the cats, we could put more effort into finding the unspayed females in the area and try to put a stop to so many feral kittens being born in the first place,”

Council allocated €6.5m for active travel Louth County Council have been allocated €6.5m this year from the NTA Active Travel fund to deliver a variety of Walking and Cycling projects throughout the County. These projects include improved pedestrian and cycleway connections between bus and train stations in both Dundalk and Drogheda

and linkages with existing cycleways.

“Following extensive engagement with our elected members and disABILITY Louth we are thrilled to receive funding for footpath and junction upgrade works that will improve accessibility in approx. 40 locations throughout Dundalk,” stated a spokesperson

from Louth County Council.

“We also look forward to seeing the completion of some of our projects that have rolled over from last year, in particular the refurbishment works to St. Dominic’s Bridge which is a key link serving the Rathmullen Road and Ballsgrove Estates to the South of the River

Boyne to the Town Centre in Drogheda.”

Cllr. Pio Smith, Cathaoirleach Louth County Council commented “I welcome the funding allocated from the NTA and I look forward to seeing these projects bringing a renewed vibrancy to our town and villages throughout the County” Joan Martin CE Louth

County Council commented “I welcome the additional funding received from the NTA for Active Travel Projects throughout the County.

The provision of this key infrastructure promotes the most economic and efficient transport system and make our towns more attractive to live, work and visit”.

Further adjustments to Leaving Cert exams should be considered

The ASTI is continuing to engage with the Department of Education regarding arrangements for this year’s Leaving Certificate examinations.

The ASTI is committed to the operation of stand-alone 2022 Leaving Certificate examination arrangements in order to take into account the unique situation of this year’s Leaving Certificate students. Every feasible adjustment to the written exams should be considered to give students as much confidence as possible as they continue their preparations.

Second-level teachers are currently implementing curricular revisions for the Leaving Certificate 2022. In addition, once-off arrangements for oral exams in Irish and modern foreign languages and the music practical exam are being introduced.

The ASTI is committed to the preservation of Ireland’s high quality, fair and independent State Exams system. This system helps to ensure that all students can expect fairness and transparency in relation to their Leaving Certificate.

Triduum to Our Lady of Lourdes in the Friary Church

Triduum to Our Lady of Lourdes will take place in the Friary Church, Anne. St. Dundalk on Wednesday 9th, Thursday 10th and Friday 11th at 10am and 6:15pm each day. Anointing of the sick will take place on Friday at both masses with Fr Luke Jansen. For more information go to www.friary.ie

“Rescues are full and there are no cat specific rescues in the area at all.

“With your help we can stop so many cats from suffering and starving. We can give them warm and safe outdoor

houses. We can find safe and loving homes for more cats.”

Please visit Fundraiser

by Katie Lloyd-McMahon : Care for Faughart & Dundalk Stray Cats (gofundme.com).

In accordance with provisions of PART XI of the Planning Acts 2000 (as amended) and Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Louth County Council proposes to: Carry out the development of 1 No. residential unit and all associated/ancillary works on lands east of No. 35 School Lane, Dunleer, Co. Louth. The development will comprise the following; Site (0.038 ha) • Construction of 1 no. 3-bedroom single-storey dwelling; • New vehicular entrance to site to provide off street parking; and • All associated landscaping and ancillary/site development works In accordance with Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), Louth County Council has concluded from a preliminary examination pursuant to the provisions of Article 120(1) (b) (i) of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) that there is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development and that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required.

Where any person considers that the proposed development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, he or she may, at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks beginning on the date of publication of this notice, apply in accordance with the provisions of Article 120 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such effects.

In accordance with the provisions of Article 250 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), Louth County Council has carried out a screening of the proposed development to assess, in view of best scientific knowledge, if the development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, would be likely to have a significant effect on a European site. Accordingly, Louth County Council has determined that the proposed development would not be likely to have a significant effect on a European site.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, between the hours of 9.00am and 5.00pm (Monday to Friday) from Wednesday 2nd February 2022 until Wednesday 2nd March 2022 (inclusive) at the following locations: • Public Library, Station House, Dunleer, Co. Louth A92 W322; • at the offices of Louth County Council, Civic Offices, Fair Street, Drogheda, Co Louth A92 P440; • at Louth County Council, County Hall, Millennium Centre, Saint Alphonsus Road, Dundalk, Co Louth, A91 KFW6; and • Also at www.louthcoco.ie.

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, clearly marked “Part 8 – 36 School Lane, Dunleer” may be made in writing to the undersigned at either Louth County Council, Civic Offices, Fair Street, Drogheda, Co Louth A92 P440 or Louth County Council, County Hall, Millennium Centre, Saint Alphonsus Road, Dundalk, Co Louth, A91 KFW6 or by email to 36SchoolLane@louthcoco. ie before 5.00pm on Wednesday 16th March 2022.

Dated this Wednesday 2nd February 2022 John Lawrence Senior Executive Officer Louth County Council County Hall, Millennium Centre, Dundalk, County Louth A91 KFW6 t 042 9335457 w www.louthcoco.ie e info@louthcoco.ie Community Call Number 042 9335457 View Alerts at www.mapalerter.ie/louth

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

Fitzpatrick calls for zero tolerance for violence against women

Independent TD Peter Fitzpatrick has called for a sea change in both culture and attitude to ensure society becomes a safer place for women. Deputy Fitzpatrick was speaking during a Dáil debate following the violent death of Ashling Murphy in Tullamore earlier this month.

“We all have a responsibility to ensure that the violent death of Ashling and the deaths of 244 other women who have died violently since 1996 result in changes being made that will ensure society becomes a safe place for women. The bottom line is that we need to have an attitude of zero tolerance when it comes to violence against women,” stated Fitzpatrick.

In my opinion this is simply not just a criminal justice issue. Preventing abusive behaviour towards women will require the eradication of certain social and cultural attitudes held by many men, which contribute to women feeling unsafe. I agree with the Taoiseach when he stated that we need a sea change in culture and attitude in our society. As men we need to listen to women. Misogyny is not acceptable and needs to be eliminated from our society.

“To put a stop to violence and abuse towards women in Irish society we must eradicate the societal and cultural attitudes that make women feel unsafe and threatened. To do this requires a change in our cultural at-

titudes so that we are not all bystanders and look the other way when we see behaviour that is not acceptable to women. We must call it out for what it is. It must be no longer ignored. The bottom line is that all women bar none have a right to be safe no matter where they are or what they are doing. We all have a responsibility in this, not only society but also Government. This terrible tragedy must bring about real change.

“We need to have adequate services that allow women to reach out when they are victims of domestic violence. It is absolutely wrong that nine counties have no women’s refuge centre. As has been pointed out here, Government funding has been cut in many instances. This is wrong

and must be corrected as a matter of urgency. Women in desperate need of help must be supported. We must ensure that at the very least every rape crisis centre and refuge centre in the country is fully funded.

“The Istanbul convention standard requires that at the very least we must have one refuge space per 10,000 people. The Government must immediately put in place measures to ensure that at the very least we comply with this convention,” explained the independent TD. “We also need to look at our justice system and how it deals with sexual assault and violence. The statistics are not very encouraging.

There is significant under-reporting of sexual assault and violence, and detection rates are as low as 10%,

the lowest in any of the categories recorded. We need to ask ourselves why this is the case. There must be reforms in this area. Women must feel safe when reporting these terrible crimes and supported in doing so.

It must be remembered that they are the victims in these circumstances.

“Another area that needs to be addressed is the type of violence that is played out on our television screens almost daily. I have spoken on this before and made the point that children are now seeing this type of violence nearly as normal behaviour.

They are seeing it on television, on the Internet and on their phones. It is as though this violent behaviour is part of normal day-to-day life. This is where education needs to step in. It must be shown that violence is not normal and is not part of day-to-day life.

“It should never be glamourised.

Children having easy access to porn is another issue that needs to be addressed. Children are growing up seeing porn as normal behaviour.

Again, we need to challenge this and show that it is not real life.

Aggression and bullying on social media also need to be addressed.

Abuse online is getting nastier all the time. We need to tackle this. Healthy debate is good but when it starts to get nasty, personal, insulting and threatening then it becomes an issue.

Many female colleagues have in the past week described the abuse they

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

receive online, which is not acceptable. Education is the key to eradicating this sort of behaviour.

“The tragic and needless death of Ashling was a terrible tragedy and must never be forgotten. It is our responsibility as a society to ensure this marks a point in time where we all say enough is enough. Violence against women must end,” he concluded.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Local creches ‘over the worst’ of staff absences due to Covid

Imelda added: “As management we had to cover and do a lot of rescheduling. It’s lovely to be able to breathe now.

“However, we do have concerns about the end of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) on April 30.

“We still have to keep the pods running and have extra staff. We are worried about the cost

of the extra staff for covering the pods.”

She continued: “We are having a management meeting with the owner to discuss how we are going to get through it.

“There is no clear path for us. We are still following the guidelines such as ventilation et cetera.

“It’s almost like we

have got through the pandemic and now we are into another stressful situation.”

According to The Holy Family Community Creche Project Manager Irenaeus McCaffrey Daly the last two years during the pandemic have been “challenging”.

“As Early Years Educators we need to reflect

and recognise the importance of the Early Years sector and the incredible work being done to allow services to open each day,” she said.

“Services up and down the country work to continue to keep children and staff safe while also maintaining contact with, and supporting families.

“From a personal experience, we like other services faced difficulties in maintaining ratios. As we have a number of relief staff on a panel, we were lucky to have sufficient number of suitable employees to meet the needs of the children attending.”

Irenaeus added: “At times, this caused some stress trying to keep positive partnerships experiences with the children and the parents.

“Anxiety caused by

Covid-19 to parents, children and staff can cause emotional health to deteriorate.

“Recognising this we offer our employees an Employee Assistance programme if they require a professional counsellor to speak with and regarding the parents, we communicate

with them regularly with newsletters and telephone calls.”

She continued: “As recently as this week we held parent teacher meetings with the parents to check in with the parents and it is opportunity for the early years educators to discuss the progress of the child or

if we have any concerns that may need addressing.

“We adopted here in the HFPCC & Claddagh’s Treasures’ a ‘Can do attitude’ with our service users to try and facilitate their requirements during the pandemic.”

Work continues for Marine Litter Group Clean coasts group of the year the Peninsula Marine Litter group have begun their 2022 work across the Peninsula and would love to welcome new members for the year ahead.

Part of the Cooley Peninsula Community Alert this group has every weekend so far in 2022 supported a number of local Transition year students who have been extremely active in collecting litter from Bellurgan to Greenore.

This weekend visitors to local beaches will have seen the newly erected signage funded by a grant from An Taisce asking visitors to the beaches in Greenore, Templetown, Shillinghill and Gyles Quay if the enjoyed the beach and encouraging them to keep it clean. The signs also have the contact details for the group and all are encouraged to join any further clean ups throughout the peninsula.

The main beach clean group will be kicking off on larger number to coincide with the National Spring clean

events in April and anyone can sign up for a free cleaning pack to be delivered to their home or join in with the Peninsula Marine group. Packs can be got on www.nationalspringclean.org

??? QUIZ ???

1—How many Grand Slam tournaments has Rafa Nadal now won following his victory in Sunday’s Australian Open final?

2—Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. Name the second highest.

3—How many great lakes are in North America?

4—Name the actor who refused to accept his best actor award at the Oscars in 1973?

5—An image, video, piece of text, etc., typically humorous in nature, that is copied and spread rapidly by internet users is known as a what?

6—What singer had a number one hit in 1991 called ‘The One and Only’ 7—The parents of which famous Dundalk family played in a band called ‘Sound Affair’?

8—Used to measure the height of horses, how many inches are there in ‘a hand’?

9—What function do tendons carry out in the human body?

10—What does the AC button on a calculator stand for?

The Stinker—Which weapon did early humans use to protect themselves against dinosaurs?

answers

1—21, 2—K2 Mountains in Pakistan, 3—Five.

Superior (the largest), Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, 4—Marlon Brando, 5—A meme, 6—Chesney Hawkes, 7/Gerry and Jean Corr, parents of The Corrs played in the band. 8—4 inches, 9—They attach muscle to bone, 10—All Clear. Stinker: None, they never met. Modern humans appeared about 200,000 years ago, and dinosaurs went extinct about 65 million years ago.

THE Assistant Manager of a Dundalk creche and preschool has said it is “over the worst” of staff absences caused by Covid-19.

ABC Childsplay Creche & Preschool Assistant Manager Imelda Brennan told the Dundalk Leader that the facility “seems to be doing okay in terms of staff absences due to Covid”.

“We’ve been very lucky so far. We are hoping we are through the worst of it. At one stage there seemed to be a close contact every week,” she said.

“We have only eight staff so if you are down two or three people it makes a massive difference.

“It put a lot of pressure on us. We had to close a pod and that wasn’t great for parents or for the children.”

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Fiftieth anniversary of Bloody Sunday Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Dundalk was one of a number of venues across the island that marked the fiftieth anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Derry.

Crowds gathered at Market Square at 4pm on Sunday to mark the anniversary of the killings of 14 men and boys

by British soldiers in Derry on January 31 1972.

The event in Dundalk was addressed by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú who said people were there in solidarity with

the families in Derry who had shown ‘inspirational resilience, determination and courage over the last five decades’.

He said Bloody Sunday had happened in the context of British government policy at the time and happened in the aftermath of Ballymurphy.

He said: ‘It is with the passing of the years that we have learned of British state collusion in many deaths. The reality is that when the British

government talk of a ‘Troubles amnesty’, what they really mean is hiding their dirty war in Ireland, from the top down’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said there would be an opportunity to speak about legacy issues in Leinster House this week. He said he would raise the deaths of Seamus Ludlow, as well as Jack Rooney and Hugh Watters in the 1975 Dundalk Bombing in Crowe People gathered outside the courthouse to mark the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.

Street.

It was finally ‘Time to Sparkle’ for the Dance Kids

After a long two year break from the stage, the Dance Kids were overjoyed to finally take to An Tain Arts Centre Stage on Sunday with their show ‘Time to Sparkle’. The talented Dance Kids aged from just four years danced and sang their hearts out to some classics from Michael Jackson, Frozen and Matilda the Musical to name just a few.

After months of hard work and two show-stopping performances from the Dance Kids an exhausted but delighted Freda Hearty said “The last two years have been incredibly

News

in Brief Library Events

Dance Kids juniors and tots ready to go on stage. hard on our Dance Kids, from zoom classes to outdoor classes and having to reschedule our show, it has been so difficult on everyone but when we see our Dance

Kids shining on stage it makes it all worthwhile. Each and every Dance Kid worked so hard and we couldn’t be prouder to see them all on stage where they belong. We’re already

looking forward to our next show which takes place in June.”

Preparations are now underway for the Dance Kids annual summer show, which will take place in June.

Dance Kids classes take place in Scoil Eoin Baiste on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30 for 4-8years, 11:30– 12:30 for 9-12 years, 1:30-2:30 for 13 years +. New members are

always welcome and can register by calling Freda on 042 9339797.

Dance Kids classes are an excellent way for kids to learn many talents in the field of dance, drama and

song. They create an excellent opportunity for children to grow in confidence, perform on stage, become active, make friends and most importantly have fun!

Louise and Glenn announce their engagement

A Loving Relationship with Self with Helen Corbett: The global pandemic has brought many to reflect on the quality of the lives they are living and on the quality of their relationships. In this virtual talk, Helen will explore how a loving relationship with self underpins the quality of our lived lives and our relationships and that it is possible to come to an easeful and joyful place in life. Helen Corbett has a background in Psychology and CoCreational Psychotherapy.

She currently works with groups and does one to one counselling. This talk takes place via Zoom on Thursday 10th February at 7pp. Booking is essential, Tel 042 9353190 or Email libraryhelpdesk@ louthcoco.ie to reserve a place.

Active Retirement

Caoimhe Byrne, Dearbhla Tuite, Katie Wynne and Holly Murray.

Welcome back to all members of Dundalk Active Retirement and new members warmly welcomed.

When: Monday 7th February @ 2.30pm. Where: Carroll Mead Hall, Pearse Park.

St Joseph’s GFC Lotto

Emma Gogarty, Jessica O’Rafferty and Caoimhe Byrne.

There was no winner of the Jackpot of €4,000.

The numbers drawn were 13,14,27,32. The €30 winners were 1. Arleen Dorian c/o Mark Dorian. 2.

Michael & Josephine Burke c/o 3. Oisin Rogers, Online 4. Eugene McArdle, Online 5. Declan Costello, Online

Set Dancing Classes Congratulations to Glenn McCourt from Bridge Street and Louise Moore from Marian Park who recently announced their engagement.

Eva Grills, Sophie Cumiskey and Cliodhna O’Neill.

Set dancing classes will return this Tuesday in Clan Na Gael Hall in Dundalk at 8:30pm. Classes are for all ages and beginners are welcome. For further details call 0872217494.

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O’Murchú highlights lack of Senator welcomes improvements access to mental health services to ‘Mortgage to Rent’ Scheme

Mental health and the difficulties with accessing services was put into the spotlight again in Leinster House by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú who highlighted the problems in Louth.

The Sinn Féin TD was speaking during a debate on youth mental health last week. The party has tabled a Private Members’ Motion (PMB) in the Dáil on Tuesday on the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in the wake of the revelations about the service in Kerry.

During the debate last week, the Dundalk TD said: ‘We have all spoken about our own constituencies and constituents who have come to us and cannot get appointments, assessments or followup services.

‘Some of them will have had difficulties in how they were treated by the service, and the services will have their own difficulties in that they do not have the positions.

‘Members have spoken about clinical psychologists and the fact that there is a difficulty in them getting the

Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. qualification. There has been no facilitation from the State in looking at filling a need where it is there.

‘The State does not go out of its way to facilitate people who want to get there so we can provide the services that are absolutely required by our young people. Most speakers have referred to the disaster in the mental health services in Kerry, and unfortunately there is a question

mark for those who work in CAMHS altogether’.

He said the greatest issue was that people cannot get access to the services they need.

He said: ‘People do not know whether they should go directly to a psychiatric unit or directly to an accident and emergency department. Generally, the result is not what it should be. This is not to take away from these services.

‘We all know that we are failing, at a community level, to deal with it and that we are not providing those initial services.

‘We have talked about eating disorders and what services we do not have. Sometimes, it is a lottery in terms of where one lives and what services one can access.

‘Sometimes, the relationship between various parts of the health service is not always what we would like it to be. We need an overhaul of that’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said there was a huge issue with children having access to illegal drugs and there is a need ‘for a service that is fit for purpose’.

Local Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed a number of significant improvements to the ‘Mortgage to Rent’ (MTR) scheme for people who have borrowed from commercial private lending institutions and who are at risk of losing their homes due to mortgage arrears. The changes will result in more people being able to benefit from the scheme, which has been amended to reflect current housing market conditions and most upto-date research on those in long term mortgage arrears.

Senator McGreehan commented, “These changes will make life easier for many households in mortgage distress. For someone in mortgage arrears to lose their home is hugely difficult and stressful. Mortgage to Rent provides a solution to a complex problem by giving a person or family the option of remaining in their own home despite acute mortgage difficulties.

“It is the Government’s objective to keep people in their homes where it is sustainable and the Mortgage to Rent scheme supports that

Senator Erin McGreehan. objective. These changes position the scheme to provide a solution for 1,000 families per year from 2022, approximately 50% more than the number of completed cases in 2021, and towards a trebling of the number in 2020.”

The MTR scheme offers households in acute, unsustainable mortgage arrears situations, with little or no prospect of a significant change in circumstances, the chance to surrender a property to a

lender and in turn become a social housing tenant whilst staying in their own home and community. As part of the scheme, the home will be brought up to private rental standards.

The key changes, which will apply from 14 February 2022, are: an increase to the positive equity limit, which is being adjusted by region to align it with the range of house prices and market conditions across the regions purchase price thresholds updated to take account of current market conditions additional flexibility in the number of allowable bedrooms in a dwelling – this will apply for borrowers aged 65 and above, and borrowers who have a disability, or where a dependant has a disability Further information on the scheme is available from: www.mortgagetorent.ie The review of the MTR is available at: https://www. gov.ie/en/publication/ed57b2021-review-of-the-mortgage-to-rent-scheme-for-borrowers-of-commercial-private-lending-institutions/

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Dundalk U18 Rugby Girls No high tackles, just high in action for Leinster heels for Dundalk rfc ladies Dundalk RFC ladies team are really excited and pleased to announce that following the recent easing of government restrictions we are finally in a position to host our long awaited ladies event “ No high tackles, just high heels”.

The Fairways Hotel Dundalk will kickstart one of the highlights of the Dundalk RFC Club Calendar for 2022 as it hosts our inaugural Ladies Event “ No High Tackles, Just High Heels” on Saturday 4th, June 2022, Bank Holiday Weekend.

The Dundalk RFC Ladies Event is one of the club’s major fundraising events and monies raised while benefiting the continued development of the club will also assist in Dundalk RFC’s drive to tackle breast cancer, an initiative started by the club last season when we hosted the Caroline Gray Memorial Event to honour and to remember Caroline, wife of Jonathon Gray, Dundalk SeniorTeam Player who lost her battle with breast cancer at such a young age. At that time Dundalk RFC donated funds raised to the National Breast Cancer Research Institute led by Professor Michael Kerin at Jonathon’s request. This event will also contribute to the marvellous work of Dr Kerin and his Research Team in memory and honour of Caroline and those women that our Dundalk

Jennifer McElroy with Aoife Purcell and Lila O’Molloy In Action.

Aoife Purcell in Action.

Sophia Murdock head

ing For The Tryline.

a O’Molloy, Sophie Jennifer McElroy, Lil Right Aoife Purcell, Woulfe Front Left to Sophie Woulfe To Right-of Photo In Action.

Sophia Murdock.

Lila O’Molloy and Aoife Purcell get ready for the scrum.

RFC Family have known and loved who have fought the fight against breast cancer.

It was our desire at Dundalk RFC to host an event in celebration and in appreciation of all Ladies with an association to the club and of the Dundalk RFC Girls who have continued to develop their game and worn the jersey with such passion, desire and pride.This event will salute them, make them feel good about themselves as we vow to make it spectacular! Yes we want the Dundalk RFC Ladies to party hard!They give of themselves so much, This is about giving to themselves!So this event will bring the girls together from your Book Clubs, Card Schools, Golf Clubs, Tennis Clubs, Bridge Clubs, Drama Groups, GAA Clubs, Rugby Friends, Old School Friends, Family Members, Friends, Work Colleagues and Neighbours for an evening of glitz and glamour.

We call on all of our Dundalk RFC Members, Sponsors and Supporters as well as the local business community to become part of a mega event, a first for the Northeast by sponsoring all or any part of the event financially , by donating an item for auction or a raffle prize or by providing your company’s professional services.

This event has been sold out

since 2020, however, if you wish to be placed on our reserve waiting list or if you have other event queries please contact the following Mary Murdock 0873833558 Kathy Cranny 0879158847.

Sip and Scrum with the Dundalk RFC Ladies as we support the Ladies who continue their fight against breast cancer, admire the survivors, honour those who have lost the battle and celebrate and appreciate the amazing Ladies who continue to blaze a trail and support the Dundalk RFC Rugby Family, where family is not only defined by blood or by surname.

We are excited and honoured at Dundalk RFC to bring such a glamourous and emotive event to the North East. We are deeply grateful to Leinster Rugby for standing shoulder to shoulder with us in supporting “ No High Tackles, Just High Heels”. We appreciate the support of The National Breast Cancer Research Institute and of Jonathon Gray who has inspired us to continue the work to tackle breast cancer by standing shoulder to shoulder with us to improve outcomes for women battling breast cancer. We know that with your support we can make a difference and show there are two sides to a rugby girl while supporting our sisters who every moment continue their battle to survive.

Connect Credit Union launch new services Connect Credit Union were delighted to kick off 2022 with the launch of their fantastic new current account and debit card service.

With the introduction of Current Account, credit unions nationwide are bringing banking back to a local level. As of 4th January Connect Credit Union members can open up a current account online or in any of their three branches in Blackrock, Kilsaran and Clogherhead. This is a huge advance for local credit unions who seek to change the face of day-to-day banking in Ireland.

It comes at a time when current accounts are very topical. Ulster Bank have already began notifying customers that they need to choose a new service provider and move their accounts. It appears that KBC and EBS could quickly follow suit. In addition, Bank of Ireland closed 88 branches

Norman McDonnell, CEO Connect Credit Union and Naomi O’Donoghue, Business Development Officer.

last year, leaving many customers looking for a local home for their funds. At this time, Connect Credit Union want to assure their members that they have a current account offering and online platform to rival any retail bank, and that their staff will be there to make the switching process as efficient and easy as possible.

Naomi O’Donoghue, Connect Business Development Officer said, “With a Mastercard debit card, low transparent fees, 24/7 support,

and a list of other benefits we are really confident that people will not only save money by switching their current account to us but they will also avail of personal service all the way. We always have real people at the end of the phone line and with staff dedicated to making the switch seamless, members know they are dealing with someone they can trust. So, while we may have entered the world of banking, we are definitely aiming to deliver it in line

T p

with the credit union ethos”.

Norman McDonnell, CEO Connect Credit Union stated, “There has never been a more exciting time for Connect Credit Union, and indeed credit unions all around our country. The launch of Current Account is a huge step for us and for our members. It makes day-to-day banking available in our rural area where it had never been before. We hope that when it comes time for our members toS move from Ulster Bank or anywhere else that S they see us as a viable and inexpensive alternative to the banks.”

This provides a great opportunity for Louth residents to avail of competitive banking services at a community level. If you are an Ulster Bank customer or looking to switch to your current account, contact Connect Credit Union on 042 9372400.

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Family Notices novena

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). M.W. 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.K.

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

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). F.M. Novena ROSE PRAYER O Little Therese of the Child Jesus, lease pick for me a rose from the Heavenly garden and send it to me as a message of love. O Little Flower of Jesus, ask God to grant the favors I now place with confidence in you hands (mention your special prayer request here) St. Therese, help me to always believe as you did, in God’s great love for me, so that I may imitate your “Little Way” each day. S.K.

Our Weekly Deadline For Family Notices is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication.

Contact Noeleen for further information.

Tel 042 9320888

TY students computer programme is out of this world

St Vincent’s TY students Miralina Namavira, Katie Goss, Jennifer Kieran, Jianan Hu.

St Vincent’s TY students Katie Goss, Jianan Hu, Jennifer Kieran and Miralina Namavira are delighted at the news that the Astro Pi computer program they have designed has been chosen to be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) and ran from space on the Raspberry Pi computer units aboard.

The girls have been working on their project as part of the European Astro Pi Challenge 21/22, which is run by the Eu-

ropean Space Agency (ESA).

Their project uses a camera to automatically detect areas of the Earth’s surface that has snow or ice cover. The impact that rising temperatures has on planet Earth can then be recorded, the girls will have the opportunity to analyse and report on their results. The girls are working on their project under the guidance and support of their teacher Mr Patrick O’Brien.

The European Astro Pi Challenge gives young people the opportunity to write their own computer programs and run them on two Raspberry Pi computers on board the ISS. The Astro Pi units, in their space-ready cases of machined aluminium, travelled to the ISS in December on a rocket.

They were unpacked and set up ready to be used in 2022 after the resupply vehicle docked with the ISS.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

special services

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor.

087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

Building Services—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

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.

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

Roofing Repairs & 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.

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

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

ALL INN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE— Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Mick 085762-3758.

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

Fifi’s Alterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 0118728.

Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Wed 9.30 - 5.30pm, Thur & Fri 9.30 - 6pm & Sat 10-2pm.

J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775.

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.

“MARRY ME”—Valentines Cakes with any wording only €29. Wedding cakes & cakes for all occasions. “Your Photo” toppers just €6 extra. Tel—087 3228790 Omeath.

Local Power Washing—No job too big or too small. Patios, Driveways, walls, etc Contact James 086 8930086 or 089 9615606 for free quotation.

BIRTHDAY Cakes €29—Personalised, Themed & your wording. Cakes for any occasions, including Wedding Cakes.

“Your Photo” toppers just €6 extra. Tel 087 3228790 Omeath.

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

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.

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

3 Seater Fabric Settee + 2 Matching Recliner Chairs for sale, excellent condition Tel 086 8554134.

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

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799.

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

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand 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 <http://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 <http://www. everkleenservices.ie>.

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.

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

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

Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.

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

ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827.

tuition

MATHS GRINDS—Leaving and junior certificate. All levels. One on one tuition with an experienced tutor. Phone/text 083 094 1872.

personal

Happy-go-lucky easy going country man, early 50s seeks female companion for walks, talks and occasional outings, must be light hearted, have no ties and enjoy the simple things in life. For further information please leave contact details to Box No. 214 C/O Dundalk Leader 63 Clanbrassil St., Dundalk.

ADVERTISE in our classifieds

to over 50,000 readers from only €5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

14

Blinds

CCTV/Alarms

Forklifts

Gardening

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Flooring

Kitchens & Bedrooms

Builders Supplies

FERGAL MARRY KITCHENS

SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED

Kitchens Bedroom Units Sliderobes & Feature walls TV Units fergalmarrykitchens@gmail.com / 087 276 5866

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

Metals

Wheelie Bins

Bellurgan Utd light up Flynn Park

15

Bellurgan Utd FC Committee Members at the recent Fundraising Draw Launch.

Plumbing

€10

DUNDALK, CO. LOUTH

per month

WHEEL BIN CLEANING Property Maintenance

Domestic & ALL ARE SIGN UP FOR 12 AS Commercial Wheel CO VERED MONTHS TO AVAIL OF Bin Cleaning OUR SPECIAL OFFER!!

Phone us on 042-9377611 or

089-4092721 T&C’s Apply www.spongebin.ie or email us @ spongebinwash@outlook.ie

Windows

BUY IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED

Full Range of Colours • Extensive Range of Designs • Irish Made Fully Certified • 'A' Rated Security Windows & Doors

All our products are as standard

Senator Windows Dundalk

Opening Hours Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2

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siness Town in Bu wn Keep Your To Business in Keep Your For a free no obligation quotation Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Fax. 042 9333514 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Bellurgan United FC will hold a very special night of football & fun to officially launch our new floodlights at Flynn Park, Bellurgan, on Saturday the 19th of February. The event starts at 6.30pm with the official switching on of the floodlights at 7.00pm followed immediately by a friendly match between Bellurgan United XI and The Sean O’Connor XI. There will be lots of fun activities for the whole community to enjoy at this really special occasion. Hot food and refreshments will be available from 6.30pm along with bouncy castles on site to keep our younger supporters happy, busy and entertained.

Player of the Year Awards will be given at half time to some of our underage players, presented by our local hero, and multi–Olympic gold medalist, Eve McCrystal.

In conjunction with this event, we are also running a fundraising draw to help raise much needed funds to help with the cost of the floodlight system. Tickets are available now and can be bought from any of our dedicated committee members. The raffle will take place directly after the match on the night.

There are some fantastic prizes for this draw with tickets costing only €10! Prizes include 2 premium tickets to the Rep of Ireland’s next home game, a signed Ireland jersey, a Dundalk Season ticket and a STATSports Apex Athlete Series!

This is an incredibly significant night for the club as we are happy to announce that our new floodlights will be dedicated to the memory of club stalwart, the late Michael O’Connor. We hope to see as many people as possible at the club to share in this very special one-off occasion, to support their local football club and enjoy some much anticipated good times!

Shirley Valentine at An Táin Arts Centre

Following its sell-out run at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre, Willy Russell’s ‘Shirley Valentine’ comes to An Táin Arts Centre on Saturday 12th February at 8pm. Treat yourself to an evening of laughter and triumph, as Norma Sheahan, one of Ireland’s leading dramatic actors, breathes new life into Willy Russell’s effervescent and iconic character SHIRLEY VALENTINE. Trapped in a dreary marriage and humdrum life, Shirley wonders when she lost her hopeful, youthful self. With no support from her demanding husband, snooty neighbour, or self-absorbed teens, Shirley resorts to full-blown (although somewhat one-sided) conversations with her kitchen wall. So, when a divorced friend asks Shirley to go on a vacation to Greece, she bravely gathers what remains of her dignity and begins a humorous and uplifting voyage of rediscovery. Shirley with ever-opening eyes, begins to see the world – and herself – in a different light… but will she ever go back to being “St Joan of the fitted units”?

Tickets €20 / €18 plus €1.50 booking fee per ticket per person Tickets can be purchased over the phone on 042 9332332 or online at www.antain.ie.

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

042 9331515/086 2559201

16% of motorists think parking signage in their area needs to be improved – AA Ireland According to a recent AA Ireland survey of over 5,000 motorists, 16% of respondents think parking signage in their area needs to be improved, as fines are set to increase from February 1st.

The survey comes after the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan signed regulations in January, which doubles parking fines for those who are caught parking on footpaths, cycle lanes and bus lanes from €40 to €80.

“We support the introduction of increased fines as it is another step closer to protecting all our road users, especially pedestrians with access needs. If you park on a footpath you are putting those who are blind and vision-impaired and wheelchair users at major risk,” states Anna Cullen from AA Ireland.

“Parking on cycle lanes means cyclists are forced out onto the road with oncoming traffic, increasing their risk of being involved in a serious incident with a vehicle,” she adds.

The survey of 5,304 AA customers also found that in the past year, 3% of motorists had their vehicle clamped and 9% of those clamped found the

circumstances ‘unfair’.

In order to get out of paying the clamping fine, some respondents claimed to have ‘pleaded ignorance’.

The increased fines will apply to all public roads and its aim is to encourage road users to be more considerate.

Parking charges Parking charges in Dublin will also increase from February 1st, with fees across the city going up by an average of 10%.

There will be a 10 cent reduction available to drivers who use a parking tag instead of cash.

“This new measure is to deter long-stay parking and it’s also a way of encouraging people towards public transport instead of their cars. We have reported record high fuel prices this month, which are severely impacting commuters.

Now with increased parking charges, car users will have no choice but to consider their alternative options,” states Cullen.

Despite trying to deter longstay parking, the AA Ireland survey found that 69% of respondents think parking ticket times should actually be extended.

“The majority of respondents from right across the country felt there should be a ‘grace period’ or ‘flexibility’ of about 15 minutes on tickets, to allow for any hold-ups that may arise through no fault of the customer,” adds Cullen.

Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022

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Western Motors ŠKODA 212 ŠKODA FABIA

191 ŠKODA FABIA

2021 Skoda Kamiq

AMBITION 1.0MPI 5 DR 60HP €18,495

COM STY 1.0MPI 75HP 4DR €16,495

STY 1.0TSI 115HP 4DR

212 ŠKODA SCALA

201 ŠKODA SCALA

STYLE 1.0TSI 110HP 5 DR €26,995

212 ŠKODA OCTAVIA

201 ŠKODA OCTAVIA

STYLE 2.0 TDI 150HP DSG 5 €39,995

SOL 1.0TSI 115HP 4 DR

212 ŠKODA SUPERB

212 ŠKODA FABIA

212ŠKODA KAMIQ

STYLE 1.0TSI 115HP 4 DR €23,495

COMBI AMB 2.0TDI 140HP 5DR €38,995

STYLE 1.0TSI 95HP 5DR

201 ŠKODA CITIGO electric

191 ŠKODA SUPERB

2020 Skoda Octavia

2019 (191) Skoda Kodiaq

212 ŠKODA KAMIQ

E SE L IV AUTO 5DR

SPT 2.0TDI 150HP 4 DR

AMB 2.0TDI 115HP 4DR

SPORT 2.0TDI 150HP 4X4 Manual 5 Seater €41,995

AMBITION 1.0TSI 95HP 5DR €25,995

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Dundalk Leader 2nd February 2022