especially the town’s football club was unrivalled and his positivity and good nature left their mark on many people around Dundalk as was witnessed by the outpouring of messages and stories following his death.
Lourdes hospital having been in intensive care for over a week.
By Paul Byrne
TRIBUTES have been sent from far and wide following the passing of Mark ‘Maxi’ Kavanagh on Friday evening. Dundalk is famed for it’s large array of larger than life characters and Maxi was one of the biggest. His love for his town and
Maxi was probably best known for his love of Dundalk FC and his standing amongst the club’s supporters was shown on Friday night in Oriel Park by the Shedside Army ahead of the Bohemians game, who unfurled a massive banner which read ‘Maxi, Dundalk Loves You More Than You Will Know’. Tragically, as the game finished, word quickly filtered around the ground that Maxi had passed away in the
Condolences were offered not just from Dundalk supporters and people from the town but also from supporters from other clubs who sent their love to the man who didn’t believe in rivalries. Stories emerged of all the help he had given to various people in town down through the years including visiting the elderly in hospital to raise their spirits, helping out with local charities including Save Our Homeless and SOSAD as well as helping the Irish Football Transplant Team to raise money to help them play in an overseas tournament. See Page 2.
Mark ‘Maxi’ Kavanagh.
Beloved Maxi left his Mark
From Page 1
Maxi’s love for Dundalk FC was legendary and he was there for the good times but more importantly he was always there during the bad days, those of which included the early days of 2012 when the club’s very future was in jeopardy. A group of loyal supporters including Maxi teamed up to organise numerous fundraisers to help keep the club alive under the banner of Save Our Club. Dean Arrowsmith, a former kit man and Club Promotion Officer with Dundalk FC was in the trenches with Maxi back in those dark days and he re-
calls a generous, enthusiastic hard working man who refused to let his home club die.
“Myself and Maxi got to know each other very well in 2012 which was obviously a very rough time to be a Dundalk FC supporter with the club almost going out of business. Through the Save Our Club initiative, myself and Maxi got very close and we were coming up with ideas together for various fundraisers to save Dundalk Football Club.
“It was testament to someone like Maxi that he done what he could to support local people by having
the Tommy McConville XI made up of all local players. He was just a really really great fella and over the years through all Dundalk’s success since I moved out to Chicago, Maxi was always one of the first people to reach out and we’d talk about the title wins and the great European nights under Stephen Kenny and he’d remind me that I had been a part of helping to save the club and helping ensure nights like that were possible. He was always very generous like that.
“It’s a tragic loss and obviously my thoughts are with his family. He’s going to be
‘My brother was one in a million’
THE brother of Mark Kavanagh will celebrate the life of the man known fondly as Maxi this evening ahead of his funeral which will take place tomorrow. Michael McAlester says he has been overwhelmed by the amount of condolences and kind words sent out via social media and in person towards his brother since news of his passing came through on Friday evening.
“All of my brother’s family and friends will meet up this evening to share stories and celebrate his life. For me I know that he is at peace now which gives me and my family peace. Mark was the most popular man you could ever meet. He had so many friends and since he died I’ve been absolutely amazed at the amount of stories that people have been telling, saying how much he helped them down through the years.
“The fact I didn’t know any of that sort of sums up Mark as he would never blow his own trumpet and he wanted to help people for the right reasons. He didn’t do it to get a pat
on the back,” stated Michael. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying Mark was a saint but he was a very very caring guy and he always looked out for people who were in trouble.
“Myself and the family want to thank the boys in the Shedside Army for their touching banner they unfurled the other night at the Bohs match in Oriel Park. Dundalk FC was a big part of Mark’s life and they have done great work with the Harry Taaffe foundation. Mark was a great friend of Harry’s and maybe one day we can combine their names to make that foundation even bigger and better. We will miss him terribly but we will make sure his name lives on,” promised Michael.
Friends of Mark have launched a GoFundMe Page to help raise money for the cost of his funeral. At the time of going to press, just shy of €5000 had been raised. Mark’s family say any money left over will be donated to the Harry Taaffe Foundation. https://gofund.me/f6cbd698
very sorely missed because he was with me for the good times, the bad times and he was always there when tragedy hit my family and he always reached out to check up on me so I’m absolutely devastated that he’s no longer around and I hope he gets the send off that he deserves,” stated Dean.
Maxi’s funeral will take place at the Holy Redeemer Church tomorrow (Thursday) at 1pm. Following the service, the funeral procession will fittingly pass by Oriel Park on the way to St Patrick’s Cemetary for burial. Anybody who knew Maxi is invited back to Oriel
Park after the burial for refreshments and to share stories of one of Dundalk’s favourite sons. Mark will be sadly missed by his daughters, Shannon, Dearbhla and Cayla, grandchildren Bréa and Dannan, mother Angela, late father Seán, sister Sandra, brothers Gerard, Seán, Michael, Darren and the late Caroline and Andrew.
He will be so missed by his heartbroken daughters, grandchildren, mother, sisters, brothers, brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
Mark ‘Maxi’ Kavanagh will pay one final visit to his beloved Oriel Park on Thursday. Dundalk fans are invited to go to Oriel Park from 2pm onwards in the Main Stand after Mark’s funeral mass at 1pm on Thursday.
Community unite to help re-open Community Centre
THE ever expanding community of Louth Village were out in force last weekend with the local GAA team, St Mochtas, partnering with Louth Village Community Centre for a vital fundraiser.
St. Mochtas G.F.C. partnered with the Louth Village Community Centre for their annual 24-hour Walk, to help raise the €10,000 needed to reopen the Louth Village Community Centre/Hub.
The walk began on Friday evening at 6pm and concluded at 6pm on Saturday 28th September with the baton being passed to different groups and teams throughout the 24 hours in St Mochtas football pitch. The initiative helped raise money for the running of the Mochtas GAA club and to raise the funds required to reopen the Community Centre. Local charity, the Friends of Liam Foundation, have been the standard partner for this event for a number of years but kindly di-
rected their efforts to the reopening of the centre. Indeed, Ronnie and Eileen, from the Friends of Liam Foundation were on hand to walk the final lap on Saturday evening. The Friends of Liam Foundation was set up by Ronnie and Eileen McArdle in memory of their little boy Liam who died of DIPG when only 5 years old. The foundation does amazing work providing services for children with autism and additional needs.
The Community Centre in Louth Village has been closed since July 2023 due to damage caused to the floor by
a water leak, which affected the main hall and kitchen areas. The suspended timber floor was deemed to be unsafe and complete replacement of the floor is required.
The negative affect of the closure on local community life has been significant as the centre is used by many local groups including the Teddy Bear Club, Monday Club, Bowling, Girl Guides, Brownies, Youth Clubs, Dance Groups and Taekwondo.
The cost of the repair works will be met in the main by a funding application which is currently being finalised. How-
ever, this will still leave a shortfall of €10.000 which needed to be met by local fundraising efforts. Without the fundraiser last weekend the Community Hall would have remained closed.
Brendan Byrne, Chairman of St. Mochta’s G.F.C. thanked everybody who came out and helped make the event a success and although it was too early to know exactly how much money had been raised hopes are high that the sponsored walk ahas raised the required funds to ensure the Hall will open their doors once again.
Cash option a must at GAA games states O’Murchú
ACCESS to cash is an absolute right and everything possible should be done to safeguard that, Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has said, while highlighting how a pensioner was not able to get into a GAA match in Louth recently because he only had cash and pointing to the recent controversy over the Connect Credit Union decision to close two branches.
During a debate on the Finance Bill 2024, the Sinn Féin deputy revealed how a pensioner had not been able to purchase a ticket for a senior football game.
He said: ‘In fairness, the Louth County Board stated that it will do absolutely anything to ensure that this does not happen again in respect of people who are only able to use cash, particularly those who have given long service to the GAA.
‘The board has allocated tickets in respect of people who fall into this bracket that the clubs can hand out. It is vital that this sort of thing happens’.
He said that even in places where there are enough ATMs, there have been times when, for example, over busy bank holiday weekends, when these have not been filled.
He said: ‘While it may suit many people to be able to pay by tapping or making purchases online, that does not suit a significant number of other individuals. Access to cash is an absolute right. Therefore, it is an absolute necessity that the legislation make provision to ensure that sufficient cash is available for people to access’.
He also said that ATMs should offer ‘Irish language options of equal quality to the English versions’.
And he highlighted the closure of the Kilsaran and Clogherheard branches of Connect Credit Union last month. He said he had spoken to Minister of State Neale Richmond about the matter as ‘it gave rise to major unease’.
Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The level of interaction and consultation on the matter has been insufficient.
‘Two rival special general meetings took place in recent days. I attended one of them in O’Connell’s GFC. Well over 200 people were present. That just shows the depth of feeling in the area. Contact has been made with the Central Bank.
‘While I accept that there are procedures for dealing with matters of this nature, I am of the view that there needs to be an element of ‘eyes on’ in respect of it.
‘We need to ensure that people are offered access to ATM services and cash. We also need to ensure that we post office services are available.
‘We need to do our part, not only to provide credit unions with the power to offer mortgages, etc., but also to ensure that they remain connected to the communities in which they are located’.
St Mochtas GFC Chairman Brendan Byrne addresses the crowd.
Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.
Largest-ever funding announced for sport facilities
LOUTH sports club benefitted from this year’s Community Sport Facility Fund (formerly Sports Capital and Equipment Grant) to the tune of €6,771,748.
Ministers Martin and Byrne announce €230m in grants for sports clubs and facilities including €6,771,748 for Louth be better able to serve their communities with the help of this fund. For example 194 clubs are getting funding to install solar panels, 317 clubs are getting funding for LED floodlights and 966 projects will include improvements to pitches.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin T.D., and the Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht, Thomas Byrne T.D. announced 1,996 grants with a total value of €230m for new and improved sports facilities and equipment through-
out the country under the Community Sport Facilities Fund, formerly the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme.
Ministers Martin and Byrne were joined by Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD, at Cambridge FC in Ringsend to announce the record funding.
The €230m allocation announced today follows May’s allocation of €26m for sports equipment which brings the total investment in community
sport and recreation in 2024 to an unprecedented €256m. This is a 50% increase on the funding allocated in early 2022 under the 2020 round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme.
Over 40 separate sports, as well as multisport facilities throughout the country, will benefit from the community sport grants announced today. Each application was assessed under criteria including population density, deprivation and access to facilities. Unsuccessful applicants can
appeal any grant applications deemed invalid.
Speaking at the announcement in Ringsend today, Minister Martin said:
“Sport is vital to our sense of togetherness and community, from local clubs to professional and high-performance teams and athletes. Each and every one of these grants represents a project that will create a new or improved opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in sport to the best of their ability. Clubs will
“These vital improvements and new facilities will add to the equipment allocations announced earlier this year to ensure that more people than ever have access to the sports they love in their local areas.”
Minister Byrne said:
“Over a quarter of a billion euro is being invested in sports clubs and facilities under the
Community Sport Facilities Fund. This level of sports funding is unprecedented and will prove transformative for sports clubs and facilities in communities across Ireland. As a Government, we are committed to providing everyone, of every age and ability, with the opportunity to
THE FOLLOWING CLUBS IN COUNTY LOUTH RECEIVED SPORTS CAPITAL GRANTS
LOUTH - REGIONAL ALLOCATIONS
Boyne RFC - Construction of a 3g Synthetic Grass Pitch €401,263
Dundalk Town FC Ltd - 2023 - Installation of new pitch and floodlights €454,228
Louth and Meath Education and Training Board - Bush PP Athletics Track Refurb & 2 lane Extension €482,146
Tennis Ireland - Dundalk Indoor Tennis Centre €67,500
LOCAL ALLOCATIONS FOR LOUTH
ABAILE Autism Support Louth & MeathOutdoor Adult Gym and Physical Exercise Equipment €25,486
Ace Athletics Club CLG - Development of club field to make it usable. €122,083
Ardee Celtic FC - Upgrade clubrooms and spectator railings €51,265
Ardee Golf Club - Enhanced access program, drainage work and machine €193,502
Ardee St marys GFC - Increase Female, Disabled & Male Participation €88,618 Bay Football Club - New clubrooms for Bay FC €195,646
Castletown Belles Football ClubBáinseach Pitch Redevelopment €65,643
Clan Na Gael GAA [DUNDALK] - The provision of two new Dressing rooms and a Gym €200,000
Cooley Kickhams GAA - Upgrade of training pitch €74,231
Cuchulainn Gaels - New Two Story Dressing and Clubrooms €186,196
Darver Community Centre CLG - Upgrade of stairs, landing and upstairs areas €65,634
Drogheda and District Athletic ClubUpgrading running track and juvenile facility €100,472
Drogheda Special Olympics Club Ltd. -
participate in sport and this record allocation for sport demonstrates that commitment.
The inspiring performance of Team Ireland at the Olympics and Paralympics recently in Paris demonstrated the positive power of sport and we understand that any sporting journey begins
UPGRADE OF CURRENT ACCESSIBLE W/C FACILITY €178,119
Dromin Juveniles Football Club - Training Equipment and Refurbishment of Facilities €86,414
Dundalk & Carlingford Sailing Clubrenovation of changing rooms / new RIB rescue boat €76,150
Dundalk Cricket Club - Project Hiney Park €50,073
Dundalk Lawn Tennis and Badminton Club - Tennis Court Resurfacing €127,126
Edmund Rice Schools Trust Limited2023 – St Joseph’s CBS Primary (Drog) All Weather Pitch €52,711
Geraldines GFC - Installation of a new 3G artificial playing pitch €132,885
Glenmuir United F.C - Glenmuir future & sustainable development project. €137,037
Holy Family Boxing and Community Centre [DROGHEDA] - Energy Efficiency Facility
Moneymore Football Club - Moneymore scep 2023 €16,358
Na Piarsaigh GFC - 2023 Development Plan Objectives €196,740
Naomh Mairtin C.P.G. - Additional Dressing Rooms & Club Gym construction €77,896
Naomh Moninne Hurling Club - Naomh
within the community.
The record funding being announced today under the Community Sport Facilities Fund underlines this Government’s continued commitment to seeing Irish sport thrive into the future.”
The biggest winners in Louth included Dundalk FC who received almost €500,000 for the installation of new pitch and floodlights, St Mochtas GFC in Louth Village who received €200,000 for the development of an all-weather enclosed Pitch and Bush PP Athletics who received €482,146 for a track refurb and two lane extension.
O’Mahonys
Minister Paschal Donohoe with Ministers Catherine Martin and Thomas Byrne.
Key points from Budget 25
WITH an election on the horizon the coalition government are looking to get the electorate onside and yesterday’s Budget saw Minister for Finance, Jack Chambers, reveal an €8.3 billion package of government spending across tax changes and expenditure.
The main talking points were a €12 increase to all weekly social welfare payments as well as two double payments of Child Benefit in both November and December.
However, there was no good news for the hospitality industry as the government ignored pleas from the hospitality sector to reduce the VAT rate to 9%.
VAT for the tourism and hospitality sectors was reduced to 9% during the Covid-19 pandemic at a cost of €1.2bn to the exchequer.
The previous 13.5% rate was reinstated last August despite opposition from the hospitality industry. Locally the effects of that VAT rate have hit businesses hard with the closure of a number of café’s and restaurants in recent months including the Townhouse and McAteer’s Food House.
INCOME TAX
The Standard Rate Cut Off point for PAYE workers has been increased by €2,000 to €44,000, with proportionate increases for married couples and civil partners.
The middle rate of USC has been cut from 4% to 3%, with the entry level increasing by €1,622 to €27,382.
The amount of taxfree money an employer can give employees as bonus payment will increase to €1,500.
OTHER TAXES AND CREDITS
The Inheritance Tax threshold has been increased from €335,000 to €400,000 for children, with other threshold increases for other Capital Acquisitions Taxes.
The Home Care Tax Credit has been increased by €150, with the same increase for the Single Person Child Carer Credit.
VAT rate for the hos-
pitality sector to stay at 13.5%, despite calls from the industry to reduce it.
COST-OF-LIVING
Households to receive, two €125 energy credits, one this year and one next year.
As of 1 January 2025, the minimum wage is increasing to €13.50 per hour.
The 9% reduced VAT rate for gas and electricity will be extended until 30 April 2025.
Student contribution fees will reduce by €1,000, and there will be once-off reduction of 30% in the contribution fee for apprenticeships and higher educationin the contribution fee for apprenticeships and higher education.
SOCIAL WELFARE
Across-the-board €12 to all weekly social welfare payments.
Long-term welfare recipients to receive a double payment in October
as well as the Christmas bonus.
Two double payments of Child Benefit in November and December.
A €420 ‘baby boost‘ payment for the birth of a child.
On the means-tested Carer’s Allowance, the means test disregard will increase to €625 for a single person and €1,250 for a couple.
In November, a €400 payment will be made to those who receive the Carers Support Grant, Disability Allowance, the Blind Pension, Invalidity Pension and the Domiciliary Care Allowance.
OLD RELIABLES
Cigarettes to jump by €1 to €18.05 from midnight tonight.
E-cigarettes to face Excise Duty 50c for every ml of liquid from the middle of next year.
HOUSING
Stamp duty on bulk buying of houses is up from 10% to 15%.
Stamp Duty for homes worth more than €1.5 million is rising to 6%.
A further €1.25 billion will be made available to the Land Development Agency, bringing the total amount of funding to the LDA to €6.25 billion.
The Rent Tax Credit is set to increase to €1,000 per person next year.
Arts Office announce new EDI Artist Practice Bursary Award
LOUTH County Council Arts Office welcomes applications from professional artists across all artforms for a new EDI Artist Practice Bursary (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) supported by The Arts Council. This award (€5,000) is available to artists specifically from under-represented backgrounds and communities, including those based on gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, membership of the Traveller Community and socio-economic status. The bursary aligns with the Arts Council’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy ensuring that everyone who lives in Ireland has the opportunity to engage with, and participate in the arts. This Artist Practice Bursary Award will allow the successful applicant to focus on the development of their professional practice, or de-
velop a specific artistic project, or both.
Deadline to apply: 4p.m, Thursday 12th October 2024. Acting Arts Officer at Louth County Council, Moya Hodgers, said: “While we are all making new strides to ensure
EDI principles are an embedded feature of our supports, there is always more we can do. This pilot bursary will provide specific supports to an artist who has experienced barriers in their career development under the ten grounds of discrimination as detailed in the Art’s Councils updated EDI Policy. This bursary provides a strong signal of our partnership with the Arts Council to help artists tackle these barriers.”
Applications are now open, with application forms and guidelines available on the CreateLouth website https:// createlouth.ie/
For further queries on the bursary, or to request a copy of the application form and guidelines contact the arts office on arts@louthcoco.ie or call Louth County Council on 042 9335457 and ask to speak to a member of the arts team.
Make Way Day
MAKE Way Day was launched in Dundalk for the eighth year running in a bid to raise awareness about the difficulties facing wheelchair users when trying to get around town.
Sergeant Ronan Loftus, Garda Darragh Prior, Cllr. Maeve Yore, and local wheelchair user and disability rights campaigner John Morgan, met outside the town hall on Crowe Street on Friday, (September 27th) to highlight the day. Finbar Gethins and Bryan Coughlan were also in attendance representing Louth County Council.
John, from Siul na Mara on the Point Road was joined by his well-trained assistance dog, Jamie. John suffered an injury in 2012 and has been in a wheelchair ever since. He explained the importance of Make Way Day and was delighted to report that things have been improving since the very first Make Way Day in 2017.
“The purpose of today is to make people aware of the difficulties facing wheelchair users and the visually impaired while walking around Dundalk. It’s not just wheelchair us-
ers that face problems either. People walking with buggies or prams also encounter difficulties getting around due to careless and illegal parking and we just want to tell people to be aware when they are parking and to make sure they are not potentially blocking anybody,” explained John.
“Thankfully things are getting better every year and the message is starting to sink in. Make Way Day is an initiative from the Disability Federation of Ireland and Louth was the first place outside of Dublin to get on board with the idea.
“We see people parking in disabled bays all
the time who don’t have a permit and they come out with the excuse that they are only parking there for a minute but that’s not good enough.
“People with disabilities have enough adversity to overcome without having to deal with people taking one of the limited amount of disabled parking spots around the town or parking carelessly which causes blockages to wheelchair users.
“I’m here today with Cllr. Maeve Yore who has been a great advocate for the disabled in the council. This is our eighth year raising awareness for this issue and thankfully we are making progress,”
concluded John.
Cllr. Yore said: “Make Way Day is about educating people and raising awareness about the difficulties that people with disabilities face.
“We have been getting great support from Sergeant Ronan Loftus and we have the fabulous Community Garda Darragh Prior who has always been very helpful and is here again with us today.
“Today is all about educating and informing people about the challenges faced by people with disabilities. It’s tough enough being in a wheelchair without facing obstacles on the footpath too.”, stated Cllr Yore.
Failte Ireland defending the indefensible regarding Louth—Cathaoirleach
CHAIRMAN of Louth County Council Cllr Kevin Callan has described as utterly indefensible, the decision of Failte a Ireland to omit the county from its advertisement of Irelands Ancient East.
The matter which was raised on RTEs lifeline programme which received complaints about the omission has led the Cathaoirleach of the Council to call for an urgent meeting with Failte Ireland and Louth County Council to discuss the matter and how to reduce the impact of the decision.
In response to complaints from Louth residents on RTÉ’s Liveline, the tourism authority said it has invested heavily in the County with it €466,000 in the reimagine Boyne Valley drive, €400,000 into the Boyne Valley Infrastructure Capital Project, over €1.1 million into the Urban Animation Capital investment scheme in Drogheda and half a million euro into the Drogheda Destination towns.
Fáilte Ireland described its capital grant allocation of €400,000 from the Office of
Public Works for the development of King John’s Castle, in Carlingford as a “key project”.
The statement added that a further grant of €118,000 was given to Louth County Council to develop an outdoor dining facility in Carlingford.
According to the authority, it is only running one television advertisement and it could only include so much content.
St Mochtas 24 Hour Walk
Cllr. Callan said that these advertisements are crucial in driving tourism in from areas such as the United States. We sat with the representatives of the tourism body last Saint Patrick’s week in New York and were briefed on many different initiatives to create new flight routes to locations across the continent being generated which were building on a new generation of Irish American tourist. Louth was a key part of this messaging as we have so much to offer. To be missing from these promotional videos in the age of influencer and digital content being the main areas where people decide on their destination is a serious issue. Our restaurants, hotels and visitor destinations all have bought into the Ancient East initiative and to be left out is not acceptable, if time limits were an issue then other locations not in the Ancient East area should have been omitted. I will be asking officials of the Council who are tasked with tourism promotion to interact with Failte Ireland on this as a matter of urgency.
Bryan Coughlan (Louth Co. Council), Sergeant Ronan Loftus, Cllr. Maeve Yore, Garda Darragh Prior, Finbar Gethins (Louth Co. Council), John Morgan and Jamie.
Cllr Kevin Callan.
Ciara to climb Croagh Patrick to help raise money for SOSAD
DUNDALK woman
Ciara Callan will celebrate her 50th birthday by climbing Croagh Patrick this weekend to help raise money for SOSAD in Louth.
Ciara, originally from Faughart has been working as a nurse in London for the past 27 years and had organised a weekend in Westport with friends to mark her 50th birthday.
Like many other people around town, Ciara was shocked and saddened to hear about the tragic passing of popular Dundalk native Mark ‘Maxi’ Kavanagh last Friday. Although she had already decided to raise money for SOSAD, his death made her doubly determined to complete the climb despite
the fact that she is due to undergo a knee replacement in 2025.
According to Ciara, she is all too aware of the painful impact of suicide in her hometown of Dundalk and she wanted to try and do something that may benefit somebody down the line who is struggling.
“When I heard the news about Maxi I was shocked and saddened. I had already started a GoFundMe page a couple of weeks earlier with the aim of climbing Croagh Patrick to try and raise money for SOSAD Louth and Maxi’s passing has just made me more determined to get out there and raise as much money as I can for what I feel is a very important charity
in our town.
I know Maxi did a lot of work with SOSAD locally and given the fact September is World Suicide Prevention Month, I thought SOSAD was the perfect charity to try and raise some money for.
“I turned 50 recently and with that in mind I had organised a weekend in Westport with my friends to mark the occasion. We didn’t want to spend all weekend just sitting in the pub so part of the plan for the trip to Westport was to climb Croagh Patrick. I just thought to myself if I’m going to climb it I may as well turn it into a fundraiser and try and raise some money for a good cause.
I’m in my 50s with a defibrillator due to
Dundalk’s 27th Infantry Battalion raise over €4500 for St Brigid’s
Jim McEneaney ONE, Capt Cormac Nellis, Ass Principal Noleen O’Hanlon.
ON Wednesday the 25th September troops from the 27 Inf Bn took part in their annual challenge in aid of St. Brigid’s Special Needs School and ONE. The challenge
raised €4578 for both charities. A sincere thank you to all that made this event such a success and to those that contributed to the funds raised.
heart issues and will undergo a knee replacement in 2025 but even if I have to crawl up I will make it to the top and complete the challenge,” vowed Ciara. “I have good hiking boots and a stick and on Friday morning we will set off,” she added.
“I have worked as a nurse in a hospital in London for the past 27 years and my col-
leagues have been wonderfully generous since I set up the GoFundMe page. I have already raised close to €2000 and the aim is to reach €2500. If I don’t reach that target I will top it up myself to make sure I will be handing over a cheque for €2,500 to SOSAD Louth. Thank you to everybody who has supported me so far and they should be
proud that they are helping a very worthwhile charity who do unbelievable work in our town,” stated Ciara.
Ciara will set off on her journey up Croagh Patrick in Mayo this Friday morning. If you are in a position to support her fundraiser you can donate at https://www.gofundme. com/f/croagh-patrickwalk-for-sosad-louth
1—Can you name the recently deceased singer/songwriter who had hits with songs such as ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ and ‘Sunday Morning Comin Down’?
2—What fruit is a prune?
3—What continent is Israel in?
4—What is the process by which a liquid changes into a gas?
5—The main estate in Fatima is split into three different names. Fatima Drive is one. Can you name the other two?
6—Nicknamed ‘Scarface’ can you name the American gangster who attained notoriety during the Prohibition era as the co-founder and boss of the Chicago Outfit from 1925 to 1931?
7—Ornithology is the study of what?
8—Can you name the Irish Republican revolutionary born in
1866 who was the muse and long time love interest for poet W.B Yeats?
9—In which set of popular children’s book and animated TV series would you find the ‘Heffalump’?
10—Donal Farmer played the priest in Glenroe between 1987 and 2001. What was the priests name in the series?
Stinker—What percentage of earth’s surface is covered with water? (to within + or- 5% is acceptable).
Ciara Callan.
Maximum sentences for knife-crimes increased
MINISTER for Justice, Helen McEntee, has announced that she has signed a Commencement Order under the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 to increase the maximum sentences for four knife related offences with effect from 30 September 2024. The Commencement Order gives effect to Part 9 of the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024, which amends the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990 to increase the maximum penalties
for the following offences under that Act:
Section 9(5) offence of possession in a public place of an article intended to cause injury to, incapacitate or intimidate a person: increased from 5 years to 7 years.
Section 10 offence of trespass with a knife, weapon of offence or other article which has a blade or sharp point: increased from 5 years to 7 years.
Section 11 offence of production of an article capable of inflicting serious injury: increased from 5 years to 7 years.
Section 12 offence of manufacture,
importation, sale, hire or loan of prescribed offensive weapons: increased from 7 years to 10 years.
These changes in the law follow recommendations from the knife crime sub-group of the Expert Forum on AntiSocial Behaviour, which is chaired by the Minister of State at the Department of Justice, James Browne TD.
Minister McEntee said:
“Knife crimes are serious criminal offences, which can have far reaching and devastating consequences. These amendments represent a necessary
Cooley natives ‘living in dread’ of flood season
SINN Féin Councillor
Antoin Watters has said people in Cooley are ‘still living in dread of the weather’ as we approach the first anniversary of the devastating Halloween floods that seen people trapped in their homes and roads destroyed.
Cllr Watters said “We, in the Peninsula still anxiously check the weather religiously and Thursday’s (26th Sept) heavy rainfall across the country but worryingly, according to ‘Louth Weather’ while the South of the County recorded 5mm of rainfall, Ravensdale and Glenmore recorded 66.8mm and 50.4mm respectively and there was more rainfall still coming.”
Cllr Watters continued “following the floods last year, Louth County Council Flood Relief Section has been actively working to prevent a repeat of the devastation and have provided me with an update on their work and also the work carried out by the Council’s Operations Department, summarised as follows: They have carried out an extensive data collection exercise to gather information to help inform the proposed flood relief scheme.
They have been in-
volved in the Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment for the 3rd cycle of the EU Floods Directive, a number of areas in the Cooley Peninsula have been brought to the attention of the OPW for further assessment.
They have meet with a number of individual residents in the Cooley Area who have suggested works to mitigate flooding, these have been assessed for viability and potential minor works funding, etc.
They have procured a Topographical Survey Contractor & CCTV Contractor to carryout Manhole Surveys, Thresholds Surveys & Cross Section Surveys. The Data collected will be used to inform hydrological and hy-
KILKERLEY Emmets main fundraiser for the new build project is the Quid games Night which will be held in the Fairways hotel this Saturday, October 5, 2024.
Quid games based on the Netflix hit series ‘Squid Games’, (minus the violence) is a set of skill based games that will chal-
draulic analysis that will be used to produce a hydraulic model of the rivers and channels around the town. This model will then be used to determine flood extents and structural measures to protect affected properties. This work is currently onsite and progressing.
The Steering Group (LCC & OPW) have met on a number of occasions and are currently finalising a brief to procure a Design Team/ Consultant Engineers to carry out the extensive Engineering and Environmental elements of the proposed scheme.
The OPW have approved funding for an Executive Engineer to progress the scheme, a sanction is currently with the Department
lenge players skills and leave everyone on the edge of their seats!
The overall winner will take home
€10,000 (€5,000 for themselves and €5,000 for their chosen club or charity). We are delighted to announce our main sponsors for the Quid Game Event and are extremely
strengthening and rebalancing of the penalties for knife crime under the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990.
“The increased penalties show that this Government is serious about tackling not only the possession of knives, but also carrying or producing a knife or other article to threaten, intimidate or cause injury. I am also increasing the maximum penalty for manufacturing, importing, selling, hiring or loaning prescribed offensive weapons. This will further help to keep knives and other offensive weapons off our streets.
“These amendments reflect the true gravity of the offences in question and will ensure that, in the most serious cases, the courts can impose a sanction that fully matches the crime.
“These latest increases in the criminal penalties available to the judiciary follow on from my earlier doubling of the maximum sentence for assault causing harm, increases to the maximum sentence for conspiracy to murder to life, and increases to the maximum sentence for assaulting a peace officer.”
McGreehan calls for badly-needed Dundalk Athletics Track to proceed
LOUTH Senator Erin McGreehan has called for the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to do everything possible to proceed with the planned Athletics Track in Dundalk.
for final approval.
Cllr Watters said “every day that it rains is a cause for anxiety in Cooley. In this country we only get a few days of summer at best and we are now coming into the wet season once again so while it is comforting to know that these works are progressing and we aren’t being forgotten about, the sooner they are completed and we can be sure that any future flooding can be mitigated, the better.
“Flooding and drainage are issues that I am persistently liaising with the Council’s Operations Department on and I will continue to do so. I will also continue to keep a watchful eye on the progress above and keep residents updated.”
Senator McGreehan, who is a General Election candidate for Fianna Fáil in Louth, said grant funding has already been allocated for the track but it now must be delivered.
She said: “After the allocation of record sports capital grants, many Dundalk residents are rightly asking about updates on the Athletics Track planned for the town.
“This is a track that has been asked about for years and it is greatly needed for the town and its surrounding areas.
“I know the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media continue to engage with Louth County Council on the project, as the money has been allocated but has not been drawn down as yet due to numerous delays.
“It very disappointing for the athletics community in Dundalk that they don’t have an Athletics Track, particularly as world-class athletes, like Kate O’Connor and Israel Olatunde, are from the town.
“I will continue to engage with the Department and the Council in relation to this project. Not only do I personally have a special interest in athletics, but the athletes in Dundalk deserve this track.”
Stolen Vehicle
Gardaí have arrested a man and seized a vehicle in Dundalk, Co. Louth in the early hours of Saturday, 28th September 2024. An Garda Síochána was alerted by PSNI to a car, subject to an unauthorised taking in Belfast, which had entered the jurisdiction on the N1 Southbound. The car was later located on the Newry Road in Dundalk and a male, in his 20s, was arrested at a nearby location. He is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a Garda station in Co. Louth. The vehicle was seized by Gardaí and removed for technical examination. Investigations are ongoing.
Taize
Prayer
All are welcome to “Prayer Around The Cross”, in candlelight. A quiet and reflective time, with the music of TAIZE. Friday 4th Octobrer 8pm -9pm. “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk A91W0C 9
Free
Library
Events
Memory Café: Memory Café will commence on Tuesday 8th October at 12:30-2:30pm. To help us with the launch, the Mobile Information Unit from the Alzheimer Society of Ireland will visit Dundalk Library and support this service. Join us for a social afternoon of tea, chat, and information. The Memory Café will continue every month thereafter.
Autumn Storytelling: Storytime for the under 8’s will take place in Dundalk Library on Saturday 5th October at 11:30am. The event is free, and all are welcome to attend.
grateful to Fastfix and Dermot Hanratty Partnership who both have come on board to support our development project. Both have been extremely generous supporters of our club for many years and we are forever grateful for this. Tickets are now available to purchase for the event. Tickets are priced
at €25 and can be purchased online via the link below https:// kilkerleyemmetsgfc.ie/products/21693/purchases/new Printed tickets for purchase will also be available from committee members and at various club matches/training ahead of the event on October 5. Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be a
great night while also contributing to the future development of the club.
If you are interested in becoming a contestant, please don’t hesitate to contact any of the following: Adrian Conlon at - Chairperson.Kilkerleyemmets.louth@gaa.ie or on 087 9671811; Orlaith Ryan
at - treasurer.kilkerleyemmets.louth@gaa.ie or on 087 – 2035918; Michelle Fitzgerald at - Secretary.kilkerleyemmets.louth@gaa.ie or on 087 – 9472946; Eamonn Kelly at Eamonn.kelly88@hotmail.com or on 086 – 0806570. Quid Games
Senator Erin McGreehan.
Ruairí Ó Murchú TD with Cllr Antoin Watters survey storm damage.
FAMILY NOTICES
IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM
CARNEY Frank 1st ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of Frank Carney, who died on 22nd September, 2023.
Though Frank is no longer with us, his spirit, humour and love remains forever in our hearts.
A great husband, father and an amazing family man.
Not a day goes by without remembering his influence as a devoted educator, he helped shape the lives of many students at DKiT.
He spent his life advocating for fairness and justice and was a lifelong Labour party member.
Frank was also a passionate sports enthusiast, proudly driving the establishment and supporting several local organisations.
As we cherish the moments we shared, we find comfort in the lasting impact he had on all of us. Frank’s presence continues to inspire and bring us together.
Forever missed, forever loved.
—Remembered by his wife Theresa, daughters Maeve and Aoife, sons Donal (predeceased), Finian and Eoin. Sons-in-law Brian and Robert, daughter-in-law Adriana, grandchildren Feidhlim, Alannah, Emily, Aoibhinn, John, Matias, Felipe. His siblings, extended family and friends.
CONLON Matthew 8th ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of Matthew (Mala) Conlon, late of Upper Faughart, Dundalk, whose 8th anniversary occurs on 8th October.
You never said I’m leaving, You never said goodbye, You were gone before we knew it, And only God knew why.
A million times we needed you, A million times we cried, If love alone could have saved you, You never would have died. In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still, In our hearts we hold a place, That only you can fill.
—From Briege & Family.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 11am on Sunday 6th October, in St. Patrick’s Church, Dundalk.
KELLY
Terry and Amy
In loving memory of Terry and Amy Kelly, Iate of 34 Fatima Drive, who died 20-9-2013 and 21-10-2012.
Your names are often spoken, Our thoughts are still with you, You’ll never be forgotten, To us you never will.
—Loved and missed by Roisin, Maria and their families.
NOVENA TO SAINT MARTHA.
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 through the great favour thou didst enjoy when Our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have definite pity in regard to the favour I ask (Mention favour). Intercede 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. 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.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).
S.McE.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). L.K.
JUDE GIBBS
Blackrock, Dundalk
In loving memory of Jude, whose 2nd Anniversary occurs on Saturday, 5th October, 2024.
Though we need to weep your loss, You dwell in that safe place in our hearts, Where no storm or night or pain can reach you.
Your love was like the dawn Brightening over our lives, Awakening beneath the dark A further adventure of colour.
The sound of your voice Found for us
A new music That brightened everything.
Whatever you enfolded in your gaze Quickened in the joy of its being; You placed smiles like flowers On the altar of the heart. Your mind always sparkled With wonder at things.
Though your days here were brief, Your spirit was alive, awake, complete.
We look towards each other no longer From the old distance of our names; Now you dwell inside the rhythm of breath, As close to us as we are to ourselves.
Though we cannot see you with outward eyes, We know our soul’s gaze is upon your face, Smiling back at us from within everything To which we bring our best refinement.
Let us not look for you only in memory, Where we would grow lonely without you. You would want us to find you in presence, Besides us when beauty brightens, When kindness glows And music echoes eternal tones.
When orchids brighten the earth, Darkest winter has turned to spring; May this dark grief flower with hope In every heart that loves you.
May you continue to inspire us:
To enter each day with a generous heart. To serve the call of courage and love Until we see your beautiful face again In that land where there is no more separation, Where all tears will be wiped from our mind, And where we will never lose you again.
—Loved and missed more each passing day by your heartbroken Mam, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, little Penny and your great Friend James. xxx.
Jude’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will take place in The Holy Family Parish Church on Saturday, 5th October, at 7pm.
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.
APARTMENT TO RENT in Dundalk, very good location. Telephone 087 2788573.
ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10 - 2pm.
TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden. I do it all. Grass cutting, strimming, hedge cutting, weeding, fencing, wall painting, power washing, gutter cleaning and general DIY. Tel Catriona 087 3172109.
BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE—Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.
CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVICES—Over 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Available services: Doors, Frames, Floors, Skirting, Architraves, Walls, Built in Units, Fencing/ Gates, Plaster boarding and Roofing Services. Complete renovations carried out. Contact Mark 086 0895508.
MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728.
ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Carpentry, Doors & Floors. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call on 083 0777666.
PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—Interior and exterior, sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men Also available for Power washing. Tel Brian 087 7558506.
CHARA COUNSELLING—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766. GOLDEN OLDIES? Call the Nostalgia Line for Karaoke and singing for birthdays, anniversaries, parties etc. Call Nicky on 0874128526.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-762-3758 for quotation.
LOCAL POWER WASHING—No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting, gutter cleaning and furniture removals, recycling or rubbish removals. Contact James 0862086141 for free quotation.
TREE SERVICES—Tree surgery, stump grinding, wood chipping & pruning. Conifer hedge reduction and ash die back removal. Fully Insured & Certified. Contact Chambers on 087 2750825 Email rchambers2008@yahoo.ie. ASBESTOS REMOVAL SERVICES—Roof Tiles, Cement Sheets, Pipes, etc, 15 years’ experience. ND Asbestos Removal Tel 085 2380012 Email 1ndabestosremoval@gmail.com.
DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES— Weekly/fortnightly lawn mowing services available. Hedge, shrub trimming and shaping. Weeding, spraying, strimming. Full garden clean up and all waste removed. Free quote. Keen rates. Please contact 087 7019178.
BOOST YOUR VITALITY for the months ahead with reflexology. Mobile service available. Also available, reflexology for adults or children with special educational needs. Phone Rosemarie on 0872058644.
DO YOU SUFFER from any of the following conditions, migraine, asthma, chest and ear problems, skin conditions, sinuses, etc,? clinic available, further information contact Faith on 087 7188450.
LOOKING FOR DONATIONS please of Sewing machines/ Walking Aids/Crutches and wheelchairs for Ghana Africa. Please text 087 3331167.
GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228. WEEKLY SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink Retail Park, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations. com.
ENGLISH AND GEOGRAPHY GRINDS to LC level. Experienced teacher in Dundalk area. Contact Jennifer on 0876337821 for more details.
BRACELET FOUND on 26th Sept outside St. Mary’s College. Please phone John at 087 2053976 to identify.
LOUTH CO. COUNCIL—I, Colin Fee intend to apply for Planning Permission for development at South End, Blackrock, Co. Louth. The development consists of a new residential development of 5no. dwellinghouses comprising 4no. new semi-detached 3 bedroomed dwelling houses, 1no. detached 4 bedroomed dwellinghouse and all ancillary and associated site development works. The application includes a Natura Impact Statement. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.
Wheelie
Irish Senior Citizens Parliament looking to give local older people a voice
LOCAL disability activist
For a free no obligation quotation
Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.
Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2
After hours by appointment
Brendan Moore is also a Member of the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament, a group which aims to give a voice to older people. At the group’s recent annual Parliament Meeting, Brendan and his colleagues outlined a number of issues which they will be looking for the government to look into over the coming months.
“The Irish Senior Citizens par-
liament is calling on TD’s and those standing for elections in the Louth/East Meath constituency to hold a town hall meeting in community halls, hotels etc hroughout the constituency so that they can hear the views of local Senior Citizens and take on board the following issues:
“Establish a commissioner for Aging and Older People with the necessary legal and budgetary/
resources to carry out its function in supporting older persons and healthy ageing
“Disability Parking permits: To lobby the government to have one body issue Disable Parking Permits. At the moment it’s the IWA and the Disabled Drivers who issue them. There is a massive increase in misuse of them with a large number out of date.
“We would also ask that Louth
County Council traffic staff control the two hour parking with a disability permit on Dundalk’s main streets.
“Assisted Dying Bill: Urging a National Discussion enriched with insights and practices from other countries. Advocate for enhanced and accessible palliative care options alongside assisted dying.,” stated Brendan.
Closure of Credit Union branches will ultimately have a negative impact on the local economy and affect our older population
CLLR. Paula Butterly says recent closures of rural based Credit Unions have rocked the core of communities who were instrumental in the establishment of their local Credit Union as far back as the 1960s. These branches through prudent management and community spirit helped many members of their community to make small but essential services to their homes, keep the farms and businesses afloat through tough times. As our children headed to college, they provided the lifeline for loans and many a young man or woman got their first car loan through their credit Union.
What distinguished the local Credit Union was it was created and managed for the people of the area to help when banks couldn’t or wouldn’t help. In essence they weren’t a faceless institution, they were one of us.
Reassurances from the Credit Unions responsible for the closure that the full suite of services will still be available on-
line have not reassured the hundreds of members who recently turned out at an SGM in the O’Connells Club in Castlebellingham.
I am extremely concerned in particular for the older people who rely on the face to face service and who do not have or desire
Grants essential for independent living for elderly—McGeough
SINN Féin Councillor
Pearse McGeough has welcomed an announcement today of an increase in Grant limits and income thresholds for those applying for Housing Adaptation Grants (HAGs) for older people (HOPs), vulnerable people and those with a disability (DPGs) following the publication of a review into the system.
Cllr McGeough has been campaigning for many years for these changes citing the increased cost of materials and labour as one reason for changes and inflation as another.
Speaking after the announcement, Cllr McGeough said “these Grants are essential for those who wish to remain independent in their own homes. They can cover anything from a stair lift to a wet room, from an outside ramp to
a downstairs bedroom or bathroom. This work can make the difference between someone being forced to stay in hospital or having to go into a nursing home, and being able to stay at home and remain independent.”
Cllr McGeough said “I have consistently been
asking the Department to make more funds available for Louth as there is quite a backlog of these essential and urgent grants and also to look at the income thresholds and grant limits. I am pleased to welcome the announcement of the latter two following the recommendations in the review..
“With the raising of the income limits, this means that more people will be able to apply and the raising of the grant limit reflects a more realistic costing of the bigger applications. These limits have not been reviewed in over 10 years so it is a review that has been long overdue given the rising costs of materials and labour and inflation. It is hoped that these changes will be implemented in the first quarter of 2025.”
online banking access, there must be more consideration given to this cohort of society as they have been the life blood that has kept many of these branches operating over the decades.
At a time when we are working hard to revitalise our town and village centres, seeing a Credit Union branch close sends a negative signal to the community. The Credit Union should be working with the community to regenerate, not contribute to its demise. A well constructed strategy to increase footfall would not only breathe new life into the local branch but would also help cafes and retail outlets in the area.
People need and want access to cash, access to services in rural Ireland and they really thrive on the friendly, familiar and local trusted staff of their Credit Union. Banks are there to return a profit for their shareholders, Credit Unions are there for their members, some would do well to remember this.
Poetry Corner
No Genealogical Rosary
I’m part Pict, Anglo Saxon, Norman and Dane.
I’ve more nationalities inside me than an Air Lingus ‘plane.
Since Strongbow landed at Waterford And the English came to the ‘Pale’, From the profligacy of the French at Killala, And the Spanish at Kinsale.
From time immemorial we’ve been invaded, With battles lost, drawn and won, And Cathleen Ní Houlahan has traded With every whore-master’s son.
So you can see why I don’t want other Nationalities tainting the blood, (I hope this fact is now well understood), We should be left alone to fulfil our destiny Under God’s great plan, Every pure-bred, authentic Irish woman And man!
—Noel Sharkey.
Cllr Paula Butterly.
Cllr Pearse McGeough.
Dundalk Chamber lobby for budget 25
PADDY Malone, PRO represented Dundalk Chamber and the pre-budget final lobbying on the 2025 Budget.
Also in attendance was Hubert Murphy Drogheda and District Chamber.
Chambers Ireland budget asks are on Child Care, cost of living, infrastructure, particularly housing and related areas and the constant need for up-skilling.
To those matters Dundalk Chamber have also raised the local infrastructure, transport and water. We have also raised our concerns about the taxation of cross border workers, particularly those working cross border.
Paddy expressed has thanks as all seven Oireachtas members either attended or were represented. This was by far the best showing of all 39 constituencies.
Dundalk Chamber Budget breakfast next Wednesday will reveal the details of the actual Budget.
European Commissioner Mairead McGuinness receives an honorary doctorate of science from UCD
EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness with President of UCD Orla Feely.
EARLIER this month, European Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets Union Mairead McGuinness was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Science from University College Dublin (UCD) for her outstanding contributions to Irish agriculture. The Commissioner graduated with a BSc in Agriculture Economics in 1980; the first woman to qualify in the discipline.
Accepting the Honorary Doctorate, she said: “I started college in 1976, three years after
Ireland joined the then EEC (European Economic Community). Little did I know then that I would spend 20 years of my career working in the EU institutions - 16 years in the European Parliament and four in the European Commission. That period followed 24 years in journalism - in both broadcast and print. I am grateful to UCD for what I learned during my time both in the lecture halls and in the university more broadly. I have continued to learn every day since and I hope to continue to do so in whatever I do next”.
Western Motors Group announced as one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies 202
WESTERN Motors Group has been named as one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies, the leading business awards programme led by Deloitte. The company, which demonstrated superior business performance, was recognised at an awards ceremony in the RDS last Thursday.
Commenting on the award, James McCormack, Managing Director, Western Motors Group
said: “What a way to add to the celebrations of our 60th year in business. We are thrilled and honoured to be named one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies for the first time in 2024. Our team has worked hard in recent years, meeting industry challenges with determination and innovation and tackling market challenges with resilience and strategic foresight.
“This recognition is a testament
to that team’s dedication and collaboration. As we look ahead, we are more committed than ever to maintaining the high standards that have brought us this far. Here’s to many more years of growth, success and leadership in our industry. Simon and I express our heartfelt thanks to the incredible WM team.”
(formerly Martin's Garage)
Ian Talbot (Chamber of Commerce CE), Hubert Murphy, Margaret Cosidine (Chamber President), Ruairi Ó Murchu TD and Paddy Malone from Dundalk Chamber.
Ian Talbot (Chamber of Commerce CE), Hubert Murphy, Margaret Cosidine (Chamber President), Senator John McGahon and Paddy Malone from Dundalk Chamber.
Staff from Western Motors celebrate being named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies.
