02-08-2023

Holly on fast track to success

‘She was one in a million’

Tributes pour in for hugely popular Sarah

By Paul Byrne

The heartbroken family of Sarah Fagan have expressed their gratitude and thanks for the wave of support they have received at home and abroad following the 48-year old’s tragic passing last weekend.

Sarah Fagan of Old Muirhevna and formerly of Mountpleasant, Dundalk, was competing in the Alpe D’huez Triathlon on Friday when she was found unresponsive in Lake Verney in the town of Allemon, where the swimming section of the triathlon was taking place. She was airlifted to hospital in Grenoble but did not recover and sadly passed away on Saturday last.

Speaking from France, Sarah’s brother Vincent spoke on behalf of his family, thanking everybody for all their support

following Sarah’s death.

‘Our family is heartbroken. We just want to get Sarah home now. We are immensely grateful for all the support from Sarah’s friends, our family and community in Ireland and abroad, and especially for the assistance from the Irish embassy in Paris, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and the Setanta and Cuchullain sports clubs. I’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, emergency service personnel and hospital staff in France who did their best to help our beloved Sarah.’

The pharmacist who worked for the hSe in Louth was also a hugely popular member of the Cuchulainn Cycling Club and club President Pat O’Shaughnessy said her passing had left everybody numb.

Continued

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

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Due to staff holidays, these premises will be closed from Wednesday, 2nd August and will re-open on Thursday, 10th August. Our next publication will be Wednesday,16th August.

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Bronze for Andrew and John at Transplant Games

Sarah Fagan who tragically passed away while competing in a triathlon in France last weekend.

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‘She was one in a million’ Tributes pour in for hugely popular Sarah

From Page 1

“Sarah was hugely popular among everybody in the club. She was renowned for her big smile and was always so full of life. If there was any events taking place within the club, Sarah would always lend a hand and offer to volunteer her services. She was on the committee for the Women’s Lap of Louth which has been a great success and it’s very hard to comprehend the fact that she is gone,” stated Pat.

“Sarah joined our club in 2010 and joined an introductory course which she really enjoyed. She loved the social aspect and there was a huge women’s section in the club who socialised together and got on

really well. I can’t emphasise how much she will be missed by everybody in the club. She was involved in everything and was always in the best of form and so easy going. When the news came through on Sunday that she had passed away we were all stunned. We were texting back and forth remembering all the things we loved about her. She loved to compete, she loved to be at the events and she loved to support friends in the club. She was one in a million and we will miss her so much,” concluded Pat.

As well as being a cherished member of Cuchulainn Cycling Club, Sarah was also an integral member of Setanta Triathlon

Club and in a post on Monday they paid tribute to Sarah.

“It is with profound sorrow and shock that we have to announce the passing of our friend and club mate Sarah Fagan. Sarah was competing in the Alp D’Huez triathlon on Friday when she got into difficulty in the swim and was airlifted to hospital. She did not recover and sadly passed away on Saturday July 29th in Grenoble France.

“Sarah was an integral member of Setanta Triathlon Club and was always first to volunteer her time, get involved in club activities and competitive events. Sarah stood out among her peers as she was always

smiling, enthusiastic and willing to help others,” read the statement.

All her club mates are devastated at Sarah’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis,” read the statement.

The Alpe d’Huez Triathlon is an annual event that comprises of a 2.2 km swim, a 115 km cycle and a 22 km run. It starts with the swim at the reservoir Lac du Verney then the cycling features the 21 bends used by the Tour de France as it climbs 1120 m to the ski resort of Alpe d’Huez for the run.

Andrew and John return from transplant games with bronze medal

The sixteen Irish soccer players who travelled to Coventry for the British Transplant Games not only represented themselves and their country but also their donors and their families. And those sixteen players including Dundalk men John Brennan and Andrew Gallagher, represented their donors brilliantly as the Irish team finished third at their first major championships.

Ireland opened up their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales before drawing 0-0 with Leeds.

The boys in Green topped their group thanks to a 2-0 win over London in their final group game which saw Dundalk man Andrew Galagher sciore one of the goals of the tournament with a peach of a strike from outside the box. Their semi-final

against Oxford was a tight affair but unfortunately for Ireland they were edged out 1-0 as their dreams of reaching the final were ended.

There was still however the chance to play for third place and a bronze medal and the Irish team lifted themselves up to record a nailbiting 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Leeds after the game

had finished scoreless.

Dundalk native John Brennan, who is captain of the team, had a heart transplant in 2018 in The Mater hospital, Dublin, when he was 37. he helped start the Irish soccer team and last weekend was a proud moment for John as he led his team out on the pitch.

“It was a great weekend and a chance to celebrate life after a trans-

plant and to remember our donors. There was a great atmosphere and great camaraderie between the teams and new friends were made over the weekend. The standard was high and it was very competitive on the pitch. When you have twelve men on a pitch and you throw in a ball all the transplant stuff gets thrown out the window and it gets competitive very quick-

ly. We have a new coach called Matthew Dunne from the Carlow\Kilkenny Utd and he has been brilliant since he came in and taken us to the next level.

“We played well in all of our games and to come away with a bronze was just the icing on the cake. I was delighted for my fellow Dundalk man Andrew Gallagher who scored an absolutely class goal in the group game against London. The next big challenge for us is the Transplant World Cup which takes place in Italy next August and we are all looking forward to that.

“The main reason we do this is to raise positive awareness about life after a transplant and try and get rid of the stigma that your life is somehow reduced after you have that operation. We want to be out here representing our country and most importantly our donors and show people that maybe have a transplant coming down the line that life does go on and you can still do the things you love,” explained John.

The Irish Soccer Transplant team who took home bronze from the British Transplant Games in Coventry last weekend. Dundalk men John Brennan and Andrew Gallagher were part of the sixteen man squad who beat Leeds in a penalty shootout to claim the bronze medal.

The late Sarah Fagan.

Deficit of €1.2m last year for DkIT

DUnDALK Institute of Technology recently published their audited financial statements, as of Friday the 28th of July 2023 with figures

showing a deficit for the year ended 31 August 2022 of €1.237 million. This compares favourably to a projected deficit of €2.408

million for the same period. The variance can be predominately attributed to an increase in income in relation to student enrolment versus that projected. The Governing Body and executive Board would like to acknowledge the work carried out across the college to achieve this positive outcome.

Current projections forecast the Institute will return to a break-even situation in 2024/25. The Institute engaged with the higher education Authority, and an independently appointed third party, when it became apparent the Institute’s financial performance had deteriorated. The Institute subsequently adopted the report of the independent party, and the 29 recommendations therein. From this report and recommendations, the Institute created a robust Sustainability Plan. In addition to oversight provided by the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee on the implementation of this

plan the Institute as a whole are committed to a return to a break-even position.

In June 2022 the executive Board and Governing Body became aware of six bank accounts that were in existence across the Institute for a number of years. The cumulative balance of these accounts was €29,187. These bank accounts had been opened and operated outside of the Institute’s normal control and reporting environment. The six bank accounts were predominately opened and operated to collect contributions from students for financing a number of extra-curriculum activities. The Institute

engaged a third-party audit and assurance firm to complete an independent review of the accounts. Based on the documentation reviewed the third party found no evidence to indicate that fraud or misappropriation has occurred.

The recently published financial statements also contains a severance payment, in line with the Institute’s relevant policies, as agreed with staff unions and the Department of Public expenditure and Reform. Severance payment made to a member of staff during this period was €69,393. The person received gross salary payments totalling €205,405 whilst

Dundalk need big performance to stay in europe

DunDALk FC have it all to do tomorrow evening in Oriel Park if they want to continue their European adventure this season. A 3-1 defeat last week against kA of Iceland means that Stephen O’Donnell’s side have to overturn a two goal deficit if they are to progress in the Europa Conference League.

on extended administrative leave.

The Comptroller and Auditor General concluded that the financial statements give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position of Dundalk Institute of Technology. The Institute has also reduced the timelines associated in publishing financial statements. DkIT are committed to transparency and full disclosure of its financial performance. The executive Board are continuing with the implementation of measures to return to a break-even situation and are working with both the staff and the Governing Body on rebalancing our financial state.

Dundalk fell behind in Reykjavik last Thursday evening but they grew into the game and deservedly drew level just past the half hour mark thanks to Daniel kelly’s powerful shot after good work down the left from Archie Davies.

However, some slack defending just before half-time saw the Carrick Road outfit concede two goals in seven minutes to leave them with a mountain to climb.

Dundalk’s second half performance will give them hope for the second leg with the visiting side dominating much of the possession. John Martin had the best chance of the second half for Dundalk but he seen his shot cleared off the line. If Dundalk are to get through, Dundalk will need to be more proficient in front of goal and give the kA defence a lot more to think about. A full house in Oriel Park will attempt to help Dundalk overturn the deficit and progress to the third qualifying round where they will play the winner of the tie between Club Brugge (Belgium) and AGF Aarhus (Denmark). The first leg is scheduled to take place away from home with the ties taken place on August 10th and 17th.

DkIT welcome new students’ union body

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) are delighted to welcome the new Students union Team for the academic year 2023/2024. The office this year will be led by elected President Eoin Clarke from Ballyhaise, Co Cavan. Eoin has just completed his Degree in Accounting and Finance in DkIT and is eager to action his tight manifesto which include the four main points, to progress student experience, improve communication,

advance student representation and to support the Institute to achieve university status.

Eoin will be capably accompanied by Holly Lambe Sally who will fill the role as VicePresident for Welfare and Equality. Holly is a Dundalk native and has also just completed her Degree in the Institute in Health and Physical Activity. Holly’s key focuses this year will be to address matters of diversity and Inclusion, support

student’s financial issues, support mental and sexual health and further evolve the events and campaigns the union offers its students.

Last, but not least is Mark Lee, also from Dundalk. Mark is the veteran of the team as this is his second term in office. This year he has been elected as Vice President for Student Engagement, last year Mark held the position of Student Welfare and Equality officer. Mark who is

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completing a Degree in Youth Work in the Institute will be responsible in this new term for engaging students within the academic and the social aspects of their time in DkIT. Part of his role

will include sitting on academic council, this is the council where every policy, guideline and module/course change is approved. Mark will make sure that the student voice is fundamental in any

discussion around the issues affecting studies.

The Student’s union in DkIT is an integral part of the Institute and is the office that supports the student’s voice and represents

all students. The union not only organises social & entertainment events but offers support on everything from accommodation, to finances, mental health to offering everyday solutions for is-

sues that may arise for students. All of the Institute wish this team the very best for the next academic year and look forward to supporting them in their new roles.

Pensioner Dolores gets tattoo for special cause

By Tamara O’Connell

A DUnDALK pensioner got her arm tattooed in a bid to raise money for the holy Family Young at heart club in Muirhevnamor.

Dolores Waller from Muirhevnamor got a tattoo of some wings with a heart and halo to help raise awareness of the club, which is looking for new members to join.

One of the organisers of the holy Family Young at heart club, niamh Morrissey from Muirhevnamor told the Dundalk Leader that she is appealing to people to come along.

“The club has been going over 20 years. Before Covid-19 hit we had 30 or 40 members but now our numbers

have reduced,” said niamh.

“Unfortunately, with Covid-19 some of our members don’t want to

come back as they are afraid of mixing again.

“Sadly, a few of our members passed away too during the pandemic. When we had over 30 people in the group, the hSe used to fund us.”

She added: “We are trying to get more people to come along and join us. Dolores volunteered to get a tattoo to help raise awareness.

“Dolores got the tattoo recently in the Tattoo Room at the back of Williamson’s Mall. It was sponsored she is raising money too.

“We meet every Wednesday in the Muirhevnamor Community

Centre between 2pm and 4pm every week.” niamh continued:

“We will go to the Dail on an outing on October 11. We also do bingo and quizzes and play games.

“We do different activities including crafts, meditation and mindfulness and soon we will have a cookery demonstration about how to cook one pot meals for a fiver.

“We do stuff that will help members too. We will do a raffle too soon in a bid to raise funds. If you come along, there will be tea/coffee and sandwiches and apple tart.”

Picture of the Tattoo on Dolores’ arm.

DkIT’s new student union team. Mark Lee, Eoin Clarke and Holly Lambe Sally.

Holly Dennis on the fast track to success

Th IRT een yearold motorbike rider holly Dennis will

compete in Wales this weekend as she looks to continue making

waves in the sport which she has been enjoying since she was a six-year old. holly who lives just outside Collon has just completed first year in Ardee Community School and her summer holidays have been spent mainly practising or competing on her beloved Husqvarna 85cc motorbike.

h olly currently competes in the Pro Ride enduro Ride series in northern Ireland where she has been hugely successful competing against boys and girls much older than herself. So far she has achieved two first place finishes a second and a third and she is currently leading lady in both the Proride extreme and the Proride enduro Championship. enduro is a form of motorcycle sport run on extended crosscountry, off-road courses. enduro consists of many different obstacles and challenges and sees the motorcyclist try to negotiate rocks, rivers, forests and ditches through often muddy fields in a race to the finish line. According to holly’s mam Debbie, her daughter’s passion for the sport was passed down from her father Alan who is himself a very succesful enduro rider.

“holly loved watching her Dad compete when she was a small kid and she would always ask myself and Alan if she could get a bike. This was like when she was just six years old and she was so thrilled when we relented and got her a pink PW50. Her first race was in Milverton in Dublin and she finished 10th and since then she has just been obsessed with the sport. We always tell her to just go out and enjoy the race but she is very competitive and has a fire in her belly and she always wants to get on that podium no matter how difficult the race,” laughs Debbie.

On top of the world! Holly is riding high in the Enduro rankings.

“We are lucky enough to have a field at the back of our house which is where holly does a lot of her practicing. Unfortunately, there is no racing in the south of Ireland this year due to a big insurance issue which has stopped all forms of two wheel racing down here. Because of that she competes in the Proride enduro Championship in northern Ireland. She lives for the thrill of racing her bike and next weekend she will compete in Wales for her first race across the water. Obviously it is very expensive to take part in these races what with accommo-

dation and travelling etc but local businesses and friends have been brilliant and offered us sponsorship and we are hugely grateful as it allows holly to get out there and do what she loves. She has the heart of a lion and I’ve seen her fall and hurt her leg but get straight back on the bike and make sure she finishes the race. Of course as a parent, you get nervous watching her race but she is such a talented rider and there is also plenty of pride while seeing her beat competitors much older than herself.

“She competes in Wales on August 5th

and we have tried to temper her expectations by telling her just to enjoy the experience but all she is thinking about is getting on to that podium and showing people that even though she is only thirteen that she is still a force to be reckoned with,” stated Debbie.

To follow holly’s journey check out her facebook page which is regularly updated at holly Dennis Racing. If any person or business would like to sponsor or support holly they can get in touch with the teenage sensation via a message on her facebook page.

1—Who has won more All Ireland Senior Football titles. Dublin or Kerry?

2—Canis Lupis is the scientific name for what animal?

3—In the popular nursery rhyme what did “Itsy Bitsy Spider” climb up?

4—According to Buddhist tradition what country was Buddha born in?

5—What year did the first passenger train service from Drogheda reach Dundalk? 1849, 1899 or 1909?

6—Which is the only vowel on a standard keyboard that is not on the top line of letters

7—What is the more popular name for the portrait officially titled “La Gioconda,” painted in 1503?

8—Ferns, Kilmore Quay

and Gorey are towns found in which county?

9—What year was Sinead O’Connor’s version of Nothing Compares 2 U released?

10—What does the movie rating ‘R’ stand for?

The Stinker—When somebody leaves the house they will more often than not have an aglet on their person. What is an aglet?

—this week’s answers—

Holly in action in competition recently.

1—Kerry (38). Dublin won their 31st on Sunday.

2—Wolf, 3—The waterspout, 4—Nepal, 5—1849,

6—A, 7—Mona Lisa, 8—Wexford, 9—1990,

10—Restricted. Stinker: A metal or plastic tube fixed tightly round each end of a shoelace,

Soccer coach David is making waves in California

The collegiate soccer landcape in the USA is fiercely competitive and professional in

all but name and Ard easmuinn man David nolan is at the forefront of talented young

coaches who are helping the next generation make their mark on the world stage. Last year he became head coach of the Claremont-Mudd Scrips women’s soccer programme and in his debut season he helped his side advance to the conference championship game and finished the year with an impressive 9-6-6 record.

David’s USA adventure began when he was visiting his brother who lived in California and he decided to try out for a few college teams. he was offered an athletic scholarship at California Baptist University, where he played collegiate soccer for two seasons before moving to La Sierra University where he spent two more seasons playing soccer as well as becoming team captain.

he also earned the La Sierra Golden eagle Award for being the top male athlete as well as earning his bacherlor’s degree in marketing from La Sierra in 2013.

According to David his love of the game began in Dundalk as a kid when he played under Tommy hanratty at St Dominics.

“I grew up in Ard easmuinn. Played most of my youth with St. Dominics and last few years with Rangers. After schoolboys I played MDL with Glenmuir and DDL with hill Celtic. Growing up, Tommy hanratty at St. Dominics created a great environment that really grew the love of the sport for me. At hill

Celtic, Kevin Lynch and Andy Agnew’s (RIP) man management was fantastic, they made you feel like a giant every time you stepped on the field. Looking back now as a full-time coach It makes me appreciate them even more as they did it all on a volunteer basis, for the love of the game.

“Like every young fella from town, it was always a dream to get to the highest level. But you get to a stage when you know it’s just not going to happen. But I knew I wanted to continue to play for as long as possible at a

high level.

“I attended Colaiste Ide (Football association course) in Dublin in the hope to get over to America on a scholarship to play football. During the same time, I got myself an apprenticeship in town and settled for that. It was a year later and I knew this wasn’t for me. My brother was living in California at the time and I went to visit him and tryout for a few college teams while I was there. The school I attended CBU offered me a athletic scholarship and 3 months later I made the move. Col-

lege sports are massive in the States, so playing in a professional like environment was very enjoyable.

“When I was at CBU, the head coach at the time encouraged me to do my coaching license and get into coaching the youth game over there to earn some extra money. Within six months of being in the States I was coaching an U12 girls’ team in the local town I lived. I got the bug straight away. As a coach now I’m always looking at the top coaches in the world, their ideas from tactics, individual roles

and set pieces. Klopp and Simeone would be two coaches I feel that have changed the game with their ideas, so it’s always nice to dig deep into their philosophy. As a full-time coach here, we have the luxury of watching football all the time. So, finding good ideas then making it your own to suit your team is definitely a common trend in the game.

“Like most coaches, I encourage a possession style game to disorganize the opposition. But within the league my team plays in, each team brings unique challenges. So it’s always good to be able to adapt. The college game over here is a very professional set up. It almost has a feel of the lower leagues of MLS. So, with that comes pressure. I’m in a results-based industry. Which for me is great as it motivates me daily to prepare my team for success.

“International coaches are very common in the states, especially english lads. I think I felt more pressure of higher expectation than being an outsider. They see you as a person who grew up in the game compared to America where Soccer would be seen as the 4th or 5th sport of the country. It’s great to see so many more Americans and even better, young female Americans getting into coaching. In my time in the states the game has grown massively, not just in num-

bers but in the quality of the coaching, be it internationals or local Americans. The success of the US women’s soccer team has been a big force in the rise of the game,” explains David.

“My college, Claremont McKenna-MuddScripps(CMS) plays in the SCIAC conference. We are one of the Top D3 conference in the nation. There are 10 schools in the conference. I coach the women’s team at the college. I’m starting my second season in charge in August. In my first year we made the playoffs for the first time in 7 years. Beyond that we made the finals of playoffs. So, there was clear growth within the first year. We;re hoping to continue the momentum going into year two. CMS is a very prestigious academic school. We attract some of the smartest students in the country. This definity helps with recruiting “My wife Maddison is from California, so we have one Christmas in California and the next in Dundalk. As a true California girl, she’s not a fan of the rain, so always prefers our summer trips to Dundalk. We are very settled in California, I’m in a job I love and unfortunately don’t see too many fulltime coaching opportunities at home. For now, getting home 1 or 2 times a year is good. The hope is to eventually own a place in Dundalk and in California,” concluded David.

Publicly funded IVF to be available from September

LOCAL Fianna Fáil Senator, erin McGreehan, has welcomed an announcement from her party colleague and Minister for health, Stephen Donnelly, detailing the access criteria and the fertility services that will be publicly funded from September.

eligible patients will be entitled to one full cycle of IVF (in-vitro fertilisation) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection) treatment, initially provided in hSe-approved private clinics of their choice ahead of the opening next year of the first public National Advanced AhR (Assisted human Reproduction) Centre.

To be eligible for publicly funded treatment, couples must be resident in Ireland and referred to a Regional Fertility

hub through their GP. They must be in a relationship for at least one year, have no children from this relationship. Patients with known clinical causes of infertility and patients where there is no known clinical cause will be eligible for treatment. Women up to the age of 40 and men up to the age of 59 will be considered eligible.

Senator McGreehan said, “Fianna Fáil’s commitment to introduce a publicly funded model of care for fertility treatment is soon to become a reality for the thousands of couples experiencing infertility.

“In Ireland, as many as one in six couples will experience fertility issues affecting both men and women equally and I warmly welcome news today, that from September, Assisted

human Reproduction treatment will be publicly funded for the first time in the State. This has been promised by successive health Ministers, but I am proud to say it is now finally being delivered by Fianna Fáíl Minister for health, Stephen Donnelly.

“Fianna Fáil in Government acknowledge that people who are desperate to have a child are the most vulnerable and hugely open to exploitation. They are facing mental, physical and relationship challenges and on top of it all, huge financial barriers. It has been a key priority of mine and my colleagues to address this issue and I’m delighted that Minister Donnelly has committed to doing so.

“It represents a transforma-

tive step toward reproductive equality where the dream of parenthood becomes a reality for every aspiring parent, irrespective of their financial status.

“I understand that work is continuing on the Assisted human Reproduction Bill which will allow Government to improve accessibility to AhR treatments, while at the same time embedding safe and appropriate clinical practice and ensuring the cost-effective use of public resources.

“I look forward this Bill progressing and ultimately seeing AhR services being expanded to wider categories so that we can help more people to fulfil their wish of starting a family.”

David Nolan is head coach of the Claremont-Mudd Scrips ladies team.

Three in a row for speed king Israel Olatunde

DUnDALK’S sprint king Israel Olatunde was at his imperious best in Santry over the weekend as he retained his national senior 100m title in a time of 10.50. The UCD athlete didn’t get off to the best of starts and was made to work with clubmate Bori Akinola leading the race early on. however, Olatunde’s devastating finish proved too much for the rest of the field to handle as he stormed clear over the last twenty metres to claim a third national title in a row.

Akinola would ultimately settle for silver in 10.58, with recent European U23 star Garbriel Kehinde (ennis Track) racing his way to bronze in 10.70.

It’s been a great year thus far for Israel with the former Marist student named as the UCD Sportsperson of the Year at a glittering ceremony earlier this year. Last year he made history when he became the first Irish runner to compete in a european 100m final. In that final he just missed out on a medal although he had the consolation of breaking Paul hession’s fifteen year old national record with a time of 10.17.

There was also success at the n ational Track and Field Championships for Kate O’Connor who earned two national medals over the weekend.

Kate claimed Silver in the 100m hurdles on Saturday and wrapped up a great weekend today with Bronze in the Long Jump.

Israel Olatunde continues to dominate the national sprinting scene with the Dundalkman picking up his third consecutive 100m national title last weekend.

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kate O’Connor had a successful time at the national Championships in Santry picking up a silver in the 100m hurdles and a bronze in the Long Jump.

Trishaw wheelchair friendly bike launch

LOUTh W.A.T.C.h (Walking

And Tandem Cycling for health) Club have arranged a launch to promote the new Trishaw wheelchair friendly bike. The launch will take place in Market Square at 10:30 am next Wednesday, 9th August.

The Trishaw wheelchair friendly bike is the first of it’s kind in County Louth and will provide access for wheelchair users to cycling, nature, and overall movement around around the county.

Independent councillor Maeve Yore has been a huge supporter of the project and speaking this week she said she was delighted to have been able to contribute and help transform the lives of wheelchair users around County Louth.

“I’m delighted to be able to contribute with some of my councillor allocation funds towards the purchase of the 1st

Wheelchair Trishaw in Louth organised by Louth Watch Club I have no doubt the trishaw will transform lives of people in wheelchairs in Our Wee County. This trishaw follows on and builds on the success of the three trishaws I brought to Louth with the help of Louth Age Friendly Chairperson Rodd Bond and Jason Devine formerly of DKIT four years ago,” stated Maeve “Well Done Paul, Benny, Paul, Marian, Maureen, Margaret, Anthony & all involved in Louth Watch Club and all the other community groups who contributed also in making this happen,” she added.

The Louth W.A.T.C.h club helps promote activity through walking and Tandem cycling most weekends around the northeast and beyond. They achieve this by recruiting and training sighted volunteers with the relevant skills required.

Louth W.A.T.C.H. Club will launch their Trishaw Wheelchair Bike in Market Square at 10.30am next Wednesday.

Family Notices

CONLON

Matthew (Matty)

40th anniversary

in loving memory of our dear father matty, late of hughes Park, dundalk, whose anniversary occurs on the 6th august. happy smiling, always content, loved and respected wherever he went, always so thoughtful, loving and kind, Beautiful memories he left behind. sadly missed but never forgotten by all your family.

NOVENA

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

dear heart of Jesus, in the past i asked you for many favours this time, i ask for this special favour (mention it). take it, dear heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. amen. say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (never known to fail) L.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 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (never known to fail). F.M.

NOVENA TO ST MARTHA

o st martha i resort to thee and to thy petition and faith, i offer up to thee this light which i shall burn every tuesday for nine tuesdays. Comfort me in all my difficulties thro the great favour thou didst enjoy when our saviour lodged in thy house. i beseech thee to have divine pity in regard to the favour i ask (mention favour). intercode for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. i ask thee st martha to overcome the dragon which thou didst cast at thy feet. one our Father and three hail marys and a lighted candle every tuesday and the above prayer made known with the intentions of spreading devotion to st martha. this miraculous saint grants everything before the tuesdays are ended. no matter how difficult. E.D.

MIRACULOUS PRAyER TO THE HOLy SPIRIT holy spirit, you who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideal, you who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. i, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and affirm once more that i never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. i want to be with you and my loved ones… in your perpetual glory. amen. to that end, and submitting to god’s holy will, i ask from you… (mention your favor). you must pray this prayer 3 consecutive days. after the 3rd day your wish shall be granted no matter how difficult it may be. Promise to publish the dialogue as your favour has been granted B.M.

Cllr McGeough welcomes new development in Castlebellingham

SInn Féin Councillor Pearse McGeough has welcomed Kearney’s Building in Castlebellingham being earmarked for development into 6 x 2 bedroom units.

Cllr McGeough said “this building has been an eye sore in the middle of the village for some time now. Within the last 6 months I had to request safety guttering be put along the top of it to catch falling tiles and debris before they hit the pavement and possibly a pedestrian.

“Thankfully, it is now going to be developed into much needed housing and in the form of 2 bedroom units which are in very short supply. It is in the preplanning stage at the minute and that is welcome.

“It will also lift the aesthetics of that part of the village which has become very run-down over the past few years. I want to commend Louth County Council for their pro-action on vacant properties as they have reached

MIRACULOUS PRAyER

TO THE HOLy SPIRIT holy spirit, you who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideal, you who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. i, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and affirm once more that i never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. i want to be with you and my loved ones… in your perpetual glory. amen. to that end, and submitting to god’s holy will, i ask from you… (mention your favor). you must pray this prayer 3 consecutive days. after the 3rd day your wish shall be granted no matter how difficult it may be. Promise to publish the dialogue as your favour has been granted.

L.M.

MIRACULOUS PRAyER

TO THE HOLy SPIRIT holy spirit, you who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideal, you who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. i, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and affirm once more that i never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. i want to be with you and my loved ones… in your perpetual glory. amen. to that end, and submitting to god’s holy will, i ask from you… (mention your favor). you must pray this prayer 3 consecutive days. after the 3rd day your wish shall be granted no matter how difficult it may be. Promise to publish the dialogue as your favour has been granted.

L.C.

MIRACLE PRAyER

dear sacred heart of Jesus, in the past, i have asked for many favours. this time i ask you this very special one. (mention favour) 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 and not mine. amen. say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted, no matter how impossible, never known to fail. thank you to the miracle prayers for favours granted. amen. C.D.

PROPERTY/RENTALS 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.

F LAT TO LET—Dundalk, good area Tel 087 2788573.

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

ATTENTION L ANDLORDS—We supply furniture & beds for any rental properties you have. beds from €180, bedroom Furniture sets from €249 Call us today www. bedstore.ie, Coes rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

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

CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

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

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

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 workmarble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

SC T ILING—Professional Tiler, specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call shane—086 107 5080.

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

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 8184827.

C ARPENTRY & J OINERY—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. no job too big or small. Contact seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.

MObILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact eugene 086-607-1702.

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

R OOFING R EPAIRS & S TOVES 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 086109-7358.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. references available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758.

F IFI’S A LTERATIONS—Longwalk s.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning service. Open Mon— Fri 9.30—5.30pm & sat 10-2pm.

WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, revue, raymond Weil, seiko, Citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478.

bUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE

building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, kitchen refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. no job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

P ODIATRY/C HIROPODY treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, bsc. Podiatry, COru registered 0871924794.

M AN 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.

PAINTING & D ECORATING—Interior & exterior, spray Painting & Hand Painted kitchens, etc. All work carried out by professional Trades Men. Call brian 087 7558506.

G RASS - CUTTING in and around the Dundalk area. experienced and reliable. Contact Michael on 0871477067.

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

C ARPENTRY repair, maintenance. Woodwork, attic space, fencing, feature walls, floors, kitchen and wardrobe repairs, shops and office suspended ceilings, metal partitions, drylining Tel enda 085 1481212.

S EMI - RETIRED PAINTER AVAIL -

A b LE Internal & external. 30 Years experience, also power washing services, etc, Tel Dermot 087 2993660.

AA F LAT R OOF R EPAIRS—All flat roofing repairs carried out by experienced felt roofer. Call 087 2607558.

G W PAINTING and Decorating. keen rates. estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

LOCAL C ARPENTER/J OINER available, 20 years’ experience, Floors, skirting, Panelling, kitchens, Wardrobes, Internal & external Doors, etc. Tel sean 083 0344035.

LOCAL P OWER WASHING no job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. Contact James 087 4464960 for free quotation.

A LL 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. bRICK PAVING—Cobble Locking, natural stone Patios, Decking, Concreting, also General Patio Maintenance. no job too small Tel 087 6344596.

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

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING

Cllr Pearse McGeough.

out to a number of owners whose buildings in the village have fallen into disrepair and dereliction.

“Developments like Kearney’s Building will hopefully kick-start the regeneration of Castlebellingham that is badly overdue.”

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. rubbish removals/ Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact ben 085-8407707.

bUILDING S ERVICES extensions, renovations, sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. bathroom refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of roof repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

P OWER WASHING of driveways/paving/walls/patios. no job too big or small. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 860 4048.

DDS PAINTING & Decorating services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel David 085 7308777.

W ILL’S G ARDEN S ERVICES—Lawn cutting, edges, hedges, strimming, rubbish & recycle removal, garage/house/ yard clearances. Call Will on 085 860 4048.

bODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

S OLARIS G REEN E NERGY is hiring a Part Time Office Person, Dundalk Town. Computer skills essential. email kenneth. byrne@sge.ie.

S OLARIS G REEN E NERGY is hiring a sales representative for the fast growing solar PV market in Louth/Monaghan. excellent communications skills and full licence is essential, own car an advantage. May suit Full or Part time. email kenneth. byrne@sge.ie.

Fatima Memorial Garden a real community effort

Th IS time last year the good people of Fatima breathed a large satisfied sigh after all the hard work put in throughout the year had proved well worth it following a very successful 70th anniversary celebration weekend for the area.

The tight knit community came together to celebrate and remember old friends past and the four-day celebrations proved memorable and enjoyable for all involved. Rather than rest on their laurels the hard working committee immediately set their sights on a new project which has now been concluded and which will be unveiled this weekend.

On Saturday August 5th next, the dedication and blessing of the Fatima and Castletown Memorial Garden takes place in the grounds of St Joseph’s Church.

The garden is dedicated to the memory of those who have gone to their rest from the area. The project was funded by the proceeds raised

from the Fatima 70 celebrations last year. The materials used were sourced locally and contain a very important part of local history thanks to the foresight of some of the committee members.

The memorial garden’s outer wall was built using stones from the “Back of the Wall” after members of the committee asked contractors could they have them when work was being done earlier this year for the Mount Avenue Link Road Scheme. A part of local history

which would have been lost to the area forever, will now take pride of place in the new Memorial Garden.

The inner wall was from stone from the old Castletown boundary wall, and the upright stones were the Gates of hamills house, the first school in the area. The work was carried out by a group of Trojan workers who saw the task as a labour of love. It is hoped that the opening shall be well attended and that the Garden would be a place to come, reflect

and evoke the memories of all who gave so much to the community.

Members of the committee would like to thank all the people who helped make this project a reality whether that be by financial contributions, donations or physical labour. It was a real community effort and the all who gave their time to make it happen are much appreciated.

The garden will be blessed by a priest after 6pm mass this Saturday and everybody are most welcome to attend the event.

The new Memorial Stone will officially be unveiled this weekend.

The community in Fatima got together to help turn the idea into reality.

B ANK H OLI d AY S PECIAL