Cooley give resounding no to proposed Greenway
By Paul Byrne
THE message outside County Hall in Dundalk from Cooley landowners, farmers and residents last Friday morning was loud and clear. ‘No to Greenway’ ‘Hands off my Property’ ‘My Property. My Rights. My Choice. No CPO’ ‘Greenways with consent. Not Compulsion’ read just a selection of the hundreds of signs on show as a large crowd welcomed a convoy of tractors and vehicles, who had travelled to Dundalk from Cooley to hand deliver petitions and submissions, objecting to the proposed Dundalk Bay to Carlingford Greenway which will connect with the existing Carlingford Lough Greenway. This will lead to a continuous cross-border greenway from Dundalk to Newry. The project is being delivered by Louth County Council with the support of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and is currently at Phase 2 Option Selection, which involves the development and assessment of these feasible Route Corridor Options to ultimately determine a Preferred Route Corridor.
Continued on Page 2
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Cooley say No to Greenway
From Page 1
Members of the public were invited to make submissions about the project with the closing date extended to September 6th having originally been due to close at the end of July. And the people of Cooley answered that invitation with over 1300 submissions delivered to County Hall as well as a petition with over 2300 signatures stating their opposition to the planned Greenway.
Speaking to the Dundalk Leader on Friday morning, one of the protestors Audrey Christmas, stated that the people of Cooley were making their voices heard and letting those in power know that they will not be bullied.
“We only heard about this in June and it’s unbelievable that farmers and landowners like myself are being told that there could be a greenway put on our land. I don’t think anybody would be happy if somebody put a greenway through their back garden and we are here to tell Louth County Council that we are completely against this project.
“There are so many issues we have with this. There is the issue of litter. There is the issue of security. I have seen the suggested options and one of the proposed routes is close to a secondary school. Will our kids be safe?,” asked Audrey.
Another landowner from Cooley, Gerard McGreehan, was also vociferous in his opposition for the project.
“I’ve been CPO’d twice by Louth County Council already and I can tell you it won’t happen a third time (A CPO or Compulsory Purchase Order allows acquiring authorities like local authorities, to take land & property without the consent of the owner and provide compensation for this.
The CPO is often used to allow a public infrastructure project to go ahead) We only found out about this like everybody else a few months ago and nobody from Cooley wants this.
We are here today to let people know that and we hope sense will prevail,” he stated.
A
Outside County Hall Louth County Council Cathaoirleach Kevin Callan and Fianna Fáil councillor Andrea McKevitt met protestors and took the petitions and submissions from them before delivering them inside County Hall.
Sinn Fein TD Ruairí Ó Murchú was outside County Hall as the protestors delivered their submissions and petition and said he welcomed the fact that people had utilised their democratic right to voice their concerns.
“It’s good to see democracy in action and I applaud the people of Cooley for utilising their democratic right to make their voices heard. There is no doubt mistakes have been made in the way this project was proposed and a lot of people have their backs up now and are very angry about
number of landowners,
proposed routes which may or may not ultimately affect them.
We absolutely cannot let farmers land be split in two and I have already brought this issue up with Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue. Louth County Council and the TII are going to have to come up with a route that will keep the majority of Cooley happy and if they can’t do that I’m not sure if this can happen,” stated Ó Murchú.
We need to make sure all submissions are read and that all concerned voices are listened to. There are clear land owner issues at play here. I know of somebody who has bought a piece of land for €22,000 and if he is getting that land CPO’d and being offered €7,000 for it, in no way, shape or form is that right. I will say we are at the very early stages
of this process and nothing is set in stone yet. Submissions will be accepted until this Friday, so if anybody else has any concerns they need to have their voices heard,” stated the Sinn Fein TD.
Acknowledging the delivery of the submissions and petition, Louth County Council said they welcomed the feedback and that it would be used to assist the design team in determining the preferred route corridor.
“Louth County Council, with the support of Transport Infrastructure Ireland, is developing proposals for the Dundalk Bay to Carlingford Greenway project and the period for public submissions closes on Friday September 6th.
“Louth County Council acknowledges all submissions made during the non-
and residents
statutory process for the proposed Carlingford to Dundalk Greenway, including those which have been delivered to County Hall today, Friday 30th August 2024.
“Louth County Council welcomes this public feedback, as it will be used to assist the design team in determining the Preferred Route Corridor which will be presented at the Third Public Consultation, envisaged to take place later this year.
“The council extended the original closing date for submissions by five weeks to Friday 6th September 2024 and has made drawings and brochures available on the dedicated project website www. dundalkcarlingfordgreenway. ie which are available for viewing by the general public,” read the statement.
Greenway can add a lot to Cooley area states councilor
RECENTLY -elected
Sinn Fein councillor
Fiona Mhic Conchoille has urged protestors opposed to the Greenway to try and look at the positive aspects it will bring to the area. While welcoming the protestors right to voice their concerns and send in their submissions, the Omeath resident was keen to highlight the positives of what a Greenway can bring to a community.
“I have been living in Omeath for just over ten years and I can
honestly say the Greenway from Carlingford to Omeath and from Omeath to Newry have transformed the lives of residents in our village. The roads around here are not safe to walk on and there was nowhere really for any walkers or runners to go out and get exercise in a safe environment.
Since the Greenways have been installed it has been used by young and old with schoolkids regularly using it as well as my local athletics club Glenmore
A.C. These Greenways are not just for tourists and daytrippers. They are also designed with the local community in mind and to enhance their way of life.
“ I get that people are concerned about proposed routes and worried it may affect them but we are at the very early stages of this project and we are not even at the funding stage yet. My hope is that when a route is chosen it can be done so with the least amount of possible disturbances for the people of Cooley.
“We actually held a community meeting a while back for the local community in Cooley to show them the proposed maps on blown
up maps and I was actually a bit taken aback by the reaction from those who attended. It was overwhelmingly negative and from the very start of the meeting it just didn’t go as we had hoped. There are obviously some very strong feelings from the local community and as I said already I completely get that.
“But Greenways I feel are a major asset to a community and I think people should wait for the finalised plans before dismissing this
project out of hand. I do agree that there has to be a direct contact for people to call or email when there are issues on the greenway such as damaged fences or maintenance issues. I myself have been out trimming overgrown hedges on the Greenways and I think these need to be maintained more than once a year. There are plenty of issues we can improve but fundamentally I have to say I am in favour of Greenways,” stated Cllr MhicConchoille.
large
farmers
from Cooley attended the protest to voice opposition to the proposed Greenway.
Audrey Christmas and Matthew Reyburn outside County Hall on Friday morning.
The convoy of tractors from Cooley arrive at County Hall to deliver 1300+ submissions and a petition with over 2300 signatures.
Ciaran Rafferty, Bernard Quinn and Colin Hanlon at the protest last Friday.
Councillor Fiona Mhic Conchoille.
Promised extension to Psychiatry department in Crosslanes nowhere to be seen states O Murchú
WHERE are the ten extra beds promised for the Drogheda Department of Psychiatry (DDOP) at Crosslanes? That’s the question Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has asked the HSE this week.
Six months after Louth County Council granted planning permission for the ten-bed extension at the Drogheda site, there has been no commencement of building work, and no sign of it starting either.
Added to this delay, Deputy Ó Murchú said he is also concerned by information he has received that suggests that there were more than 40 vacancies in mental health services in the Louth-Meath area, but these ‘seemed to have magically turned into just 13 vacancies’ without the posts being filled.
Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘It is my understanding that there were more than 40 nursing vacancies in the wider mental health services in Louth and Meath but
Dept of Psychiatry, Drogheda.
now, following the lifting of the recruitment moratorium, these have been turned into just 13 empty positions.
‘It is my understanding that employees who were acting up in another role were made permanent in these roles, but their previous jobs were cut or disappeared. It is very worrying.
‘And these are just the nursing vacancies – if you add in the other disciplines where there are shortages, then, I’m told, the number is higher’.
And his colleague, Cllr. Joanna Byrne highlighted how, in a June 2023 inspection of the Crosslanes facility, the Mental Health Com-
mission found there was ‘an inadequate number of appropriately trained nursing staff to provide safe care and treatment, which meant the numbers of and skill mix of staff were not appropriate to the assessed needs of residents in the approved centre.
‘There were 49 occasions (day shifts and three night shifts) since January 2023 when the approved centre’s nursing staff was below the required staff ratio’.
The report also found that operational risks outlined by heads of disciplines ‘noted difficulty in recruitment, training and inpatient bed capacity for the catchment ar-
eas of Louth and Meath’.
Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The extension to DDOP at Crosslanes has been promised for a long time, but six months after the granting of planning, nothing has happened and I want to know why.
‘This should be an urgent, priority project for the HSE, but it hasn’t moved. This, on top of there is the issue with the vacancies – how many are being advertised versus how many are really needed. The Louth-Meath area has one of the lowest mental health bed provision in the State.
‘There continues to be a need for a 24-hour psychiatry service at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital that would allow urgent assessments and referrals into mental health services’.
‘Staff working in mental health services are under pressure and that pressure is exacerbated by the situation with the unfilled vacancies’.
Dundalk artists ‘Mark’ their territory in Bari
LOCAL artist Mark Devenney has quickly immersed himself into the local art scene having returned to his hometown last year after living in South Africa for over fifty years.
It was via a recommendation from Isabella Loiudice in An Táin Arts Centre that Mark decided to spread his cultural wings by enrolling on a Fresco Painting course in Bari, which is on the Adriatic Coast of Italy. Mark, the son of Betty and Dan Devenney who established the well known Office Supplies and Stationery Shop in Crowe St. Dundalk, arrived to the class in Bari surrounded by what he thought were local Italian artists.
The class was small. Perhaps, six other people in the room apart from Mark. The first thing Mark noticed was the unmistakeable sound of a beautiful Dundalk accent. There was another Dundalk man on the course. Mark introduced himself to local artist Paul Woods who had also made the trip to Bari for the course and the two laughed about the chances of two Dundalk people being on the same specialized course in the South of Italy.
As the two artists chatted they suddenly heard ANOTHER beautiful Dundalk accent from
across the room. Where they in Bari or Bridge Street they must have wondered. The third man was Sean Whelan, a local actor and businessman, with a huge interest in the arts who is a regular visitor to Bari. The three Dundalk men, none of whom knew each other beforehand, marveled at the coincidental situation they found themselves in. A small class teaching a specialised form of art painting in Southern Italy with half the attendees coming from Dundalk. According to Mark the trio got on like a house on fire and have plans to meet up again soon in Dundalk.
“It really was extraordinary,” states Mark. ‘I got a bit of a shock when I heard one Dundalk accent
in the class but when I heard a second I didn’t know where I was for a moment!,” he laughs.
“The workshop was on the making and use of vegetable and mineral pigments in Fresco painting. It also covered light frequencies and the effect of these on paintings so it was pretty specialized.
“The teacher was renowned international artist Miguel Gomez who is planning on visiting Dundalk next year. We hung out together during and after the class and we got on really well. We plan on staying in touch and I am thankful for what was a pretty extraordinary coincidental meeting of three Dundalk men in Bari,” laughs Mark.
Paul Woods, Sean Whelan and Mark Devenney.
Deputy Fitzpatrick will not contest the next election
INDEPENDENT TD Peter
Fitzpatrick has announcd that he will not be contesting the forthcoming general election. Fitzpatrick, was first elected for Fine Gael in 2011 but sensationally left the party in 2018 due to his decision to oppose repealing the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution which he said left him feeling isolated within the party.
Fitzpatrick, a former Louth GAA senior footballer who went on to manage his county as well as becoming chairman of the Louth County board, defied the odds by getting re-elected as an Independent candidate in 2020. His decision to not contest
the next General Election means that Louth will have at least three new faces in the Dáil next term following the decision of both Imelda Munster and Fergus O’Dowd not to contest the next General Election either.
In a statement released on Friday morning the 62 year old stated that he had not taken this decision lightly.
“It is with a mix of emotions, a deep sense of responsibility and reflection that I announce that I will not contest the next general election.
This decision was not made lightly.
“The biggest highlight for me was being able to help the people
of County Louth and East Meath with situations ranging across the spectrum; ranging from housing and planning to health and medical care, and everything in between; in one of the busiest constituency offices in the country,” he explained.
“I am very proud of my efforts in helping to create a more caring and compassionate Ireland. Among my most important campaigns was the opposition of the legalisation of abortion in Ireland of which I felt very strongly about. I have also always been an advocate for affordable and sustainable housing as this is a cornerstone of stable communities.
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“Myself and my colleagues in the Regional Group of Independent TD’s have also been united in advocating for the interests of Regional Ireland. We have pushed for; and continue to do so in the upcoming Budget; a thorough review of tax credits and the social welfare system to ensure that employment remains financially rewarding, while also pushing for reform to the medical card income guidelines in order to ensure access and expanding healthcare. Our commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and their carers is unwavering, and I was delighted to chair the All Party Oireachtas Life and Dignity Group event titled ‘Caring for Us as We Age: A Proactive Approach on Nursing Homes’.
“I intend to continue to be a strong and forceful advocate nationally for improved care and supports for all into the future. These milestones would not have been possible without the collaboration and collective efforts of this group of independent TDs.
“I am very proud to have gained election to Dáil Eireann on three separate occasions, including doing the seemingly impossible and being voted in as an Independent. This milestone was both challenging and rewarding and was a collective effort supported by an incredible network of individuals.
“I want to thank the voters from County Louth and East Meath for backing me over the last 14 years. I have always tried to deliver for them and make them proud. Throughout my working life I have enjoyed the heartfelt support of the people of my constituency. I have deeply appreciated their loyalty and
goodwill which made my job representing them all that more satisfying.
“I have loved every day of public life. I have had opportunities in politics that I could never have dreamt possible. From the very first day I was elected, I’ve had the people of Dundalk, Louth and East Meath to the fore of my mind. I’ve spent my time as a representative striving to make a positive impact on the lives of constituents, raising issues for our town and county and fighting the corner of those whose needed a voice, who needed a helping hand. I’ve been so proud to represent you all.
“I am indebted to my colleagues in the Regional Group
of TDs for their ongoing support, guidance, friendship and commitment to regional issues. It has been an immense privilege to work alongside dedicated colleagues who share a commitment to advancing our shared goals. I would like to thank my colleagues in Leinster House; of all political persuasion; thank you for the many friendships and commitments forged over the years.
“I would like to thank my wonderful wife Ann, my children and my extended family including my grandchildren for providing unwavering support and encouragement throughout this journey.
“I want to pay tribute to my dedicated staff in my constituency office who made my success possible throughout my tenure. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank every single person who ever supported and campaigned for me – these staff and volunteers were key to my re-election over the years, and I am very grateful to them all.
“It has been my honour and privilege to represent the people of my hometown of Dundalk, County Louth and East-Meath in the Dáil since 2011, and I look forward to continuing to do so for the remainder of this Dáil term. The day I was chosen by the people of this constituency to represent them and advocate for their interests remains the proudest moment of my life, and I genuinely mean that, but now is the right time to explore new options and opportunities.
I remain committed to serving our community and contributing to its betterment in new capacities,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.
Definitely Crazy
Crazy price of Oasis tickets needs to be looked at says local music venue owner
LAST Saturday morning, 160,000 Croke Park tickets for popular Mancunian band Oasis, sold out in record time. The band fronted by Liam and Noel Gallagher, announced their reunion last week amid much excitement from fans with two Croke Park gigs announced for next August.
The vast majority of people who had tried to get tickets on the Ticketmaster website left their laptops or their phones empty handed. Some were stuck in an endless queue that led to nowhere while some who managed to get in were met with a sudden extortionate price increase from the advertised €86.50 plus booking fees to €400+ per ticket.
The reason given by Ticketmaster for this extortionate rise in price was dynamic pricing under the heading of ‘In Demand Stand-
ing Tickets’. While this technique is widespread in other countries, particularly the USA, this was one of the first times Irish music fans have encountered this ruthless strategy and the reaction was understandably one of disgust.
Politicians, including Tánaiste Micheal Martin hit out at the rampant acceleration of ticket prices and urged the Competition and Consumer Authority to step in and investigate Ticketmaster.
“We have the compe-
tition and consumer authority and I think there is a role there for it, which is the body designated to do these things, to investigate this.
“But more broadly speaking, I do think we need a strong reflection on this kind of runaway inflation on costs for concerts of these kinds with so many people looking forward to it.
“Clearly, it is beyond the reach of many, many people to purchase or to be in a position to be able to afford a ticket to a concert given the rampant acceleration of price increases.
Mark Dearey who owns and manages local music venue, The Spirit Store, agreed that something needed to be done to prevent this form of price gouging in future.
”Well first of all what we do down here is a million miles away from these huge gigs that people are queuing for for
Louth families to benefit from substantial reductions in childcare costs from September - McGreehan
LOCAL Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed the introduction of new subsidy rates under the National Childcare Scheme (NCS), which is set to substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs for early learning and childcare for tens of thousands of families across the country.
From 2 September, the minimum hourly subsidy under the NCS for children under 15 will increase by 53% - from €1.40 to €2.14.
For families using Tusla-registered early learning and childcare, the subsidy increase represents total cost reductions of up to €96.30 weekly per child, or over €5,000 annually.
From 2 September, the hourly subsidy under NCS sponsor referral programme, which makes special provision for vulnerable children, will also increase.
Senator McGreehan said, “I am absolutely delighted that government have followed through on this. Making childcare more affordable is and will continue to be a key priority for Fianna Fáil in Government. I’m proud to see a record 175,389 children benefiting from the National Childcare Scheme this year—a remarkable increase of over 97,000 compared to 2022.
“Starting this September, a fee cap will be introduced for new services
hours on end on Ticketmaster. The big problem for us locally is that stuff like this definitely affects peoples spending power. If they are paying up to €400 for a ticket for a gig in most cases they are going to have to cut back in other areas.
“I would like the government to step in and try and do something about this because it
really is extreme capitalism at the end of the day. Of course everybody has a choice but we need to ensure that the tickets are being sold at the price they are being advertised at. My advice? Close the laptops. Avoid the queues. And spend your money buying a ticket for a gig in the Spirit Store,” laughs Mark.
joining Core Funding, expanding to all services by 2025. This will set a maximum fee level for childcare, ensuring greater affordability and certainty for parents.
“These new subsidy rates will make quality early learning and childcare more accessible for thousands of families. I encourage all eligible families to take advantage of these supports.’’
McGreehan states although the reductions in early learning and childcare cost is positive, she has spoken to many early year providers who are still struggling with costs. She insists we must also support the providers, as they are at the heart of early childhood education.
“We must continue to invest and support the early childcare sector, and ensure that the professionals that work in early years are paid to match their experience and qualifications.”
“The workers who are mostly women are incredibly important to our children’s development. I know the staff that cared for my children in those early years were incredible and made such positive impacts on their development”.
“I am worried for some providers who are doing everything right, providing top quality early years education and still struggling to make ends meet”.
Liam and Noel Gallagher will take to the stage in Croke Park next August for the Oasis reunion gigs.
Mark Dearey.
Regional Group TDs Publish Pre-Budget Submission 2025: Advocating a better future for all
DEPUTY Peter Fitzpatrick and the Independent Regional Group of TDs published their prebudget submission 2025 on Monday urging the Government to adopt an integrated approach with clear, actionable goals in its final budget. “We are calling for a comprehensive strategy, with established measures to evaluate outcomes and ensure accountability across all government departments”.
Deputy Fitzpatrick; alongside the Independent Regional Group TDs; stand united in championing the interests of regional Ireland. “With many individuals and families feeling financially insecure, Budget 2025 must prioritise income security for all. This requires recurring taxation and expenditure measures aimed at protecting the most vulnerable, closing income gaps, and addressing the escalating pressures on working families and individuals”, states Fitzpatrick.
We are calling for a thorough review of tax credits and the social welfare system to ensure that employment remains financially rewarding, alongside crucial revisions to medical card income guidelines
to expand healthcare access. The group remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and their carers.
Rejuvenating towns and villages are vital to breathing life into regional Ireland. Deputy Fitzpatrick and the independent TDs support the succession and transfer of family assets, encouraging the next generation to maintain and innovate within local businesses and family farms. This approach not only rejuvenates industries but also promotes sustainable investments that reduce the carbon footprint, allowing regional Ireland to thrive. We are also calling for enhanced support for rural and regional businesses and the farming community to meet emission reduction targets.
Myself and the Re-
gional Group members acknowledge the urgent need for additional mental health supports, calling for multi-annual funding for organisations delivering these critical services. We are advocating for expanding and supporting health services, particularly mental health services provided in community settings and closer to home care for patients. Noting the high mortality rate of eating disorders, the group stress the need for robust prevention and early intervention measures. They also call for access to counselling and psychotherapy services in all primary and secondary schools, and for the expansion of tax relief to include these services as eligible health expenses.
Continuing their support for young people, Deputy Fitzpatrick and the Regional Group of
TDs again this year call for the introduction and funding of a national quit vaping and nicotine program for children and teenagers. They also advocate for a ban on the sale of non-prescription vaping products, following the lead of Australia. Deputy Fitzpatrick; alongside the Independent Regional Group TDs; highlight the importance of adapting the education and training sector to industry demands, with a focus on apprenticeships, retraining, and higher education. They propose that the underutilised National Training Fund, currently over €1.5 billion, be directed towards supporting digital and green career paths, funding apprenticeships, and providing training vouchers to enhance employability.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
LOUTH County Council have increased their revenue on parking fines in 2023 by almost 20% according to figures I have obtained. According to those figures Louth Co. Council issued 15,102 parking fines in 2023 which is an increase of 4,292 on 2022 figures. While it is god to see more fines being issued I feel they could be much higher if the traffic warden around the county did the job they are getting paid to do ie issue fines to those who constantly display blue disability parking permits daily on their vehicles for more than two hours at a time. The road traffic and parking amendment act signed into law by the Minster for Transport states that it is an offence to display a disabled parking permit in a Local Authority Area for more than two hours. The fine for this is €160. Vehicles parked on footpaths in a pay parking area are subject to fines from traffic wardens up to €80. Louth County Council Traffic Wardens are not patrolling the whole town from Bridge St. to Dublin St. including side streets and main streets that have Pay Parking. Louth County Council confirmed that they have seen a big jump in fines and that they have added more traffic wardens to their Parking Enforcement teams. In fact they hired two new personnel to cover for two wardens who have retired.
Dundalk need four permanent traffic wardens to keep traffic running smoothly through the town. They will see revenue increase by at least 60%. The incoming CEO of Louth Co. Council needs to make clear that Louth County Council local authority wardens are there to enforce traffic laws by issuing fines to those who don’t obey the law. An increase in prosecutions brings in extra revenue for the council so it’s a win win situation.
Brendan Moore, Disability activist.
Martin best of the old boys
LAST Friday night saw the final chance for players to Qualify for Finals night in the Northend Bar.
Up for grabs was the Brother Eccles Cup, being played for now as an over 50’s competition. It was last played for in 1985 and only ever won by three players in the six years that it was originally played for.
Hoping to add their names to the previous winners of Pat McHugh (twice winner), Paddy Dixon R.I.P and Dermot Ralph (a hat-trick of wins) were a lot of familiar faces from the local Darts scene from over the years.
Dusting down their darts and looking to cause a few upsets were Sean Dixon and Mickey Smith but the draw would force these two good friends to face one another and missed darts at doubles would see Mickey eliminate Sean.
Darren “Pigeon” Kerley was another hoping to go well but even after winning his opening game against Sean Conroy he would be eliminated by a formidable opponent in Martin Carvill.
Alan Rogan was catching the eye with some great scoring but he too would be eliminated by Martin Carvill in the semi-finals.
The other side of the draw saw Nicky Hoey and Aidan Thompson both progress to the semifinals and Aidan would get the upper hand on Nicky Hoey and face Martin Carvill.
Martin, fresh from playing a starring role in Darts City, a programme that followed 4 darts players in the Newry Dart League, is a familiar face around town and always attracts a lot of interest in his games. Both players traded wins in the first three games with Aidan taking out a 130 checkout on the Bull, but it was Martin who would hit the crucial double in the next two games and se-
1—Can you name the Jenkinstown native who won silver at the Paralympic Games in Paris on Sunday?
2—What is the most consumed fruit in the world?
3—Sharon Curley and George Burgess were characters in which successful 1993 Irish movie?
4—What differentiates the Gobi Desert from most other deserts?
5—What, now defunct, well known Arts Festival in Dundalk was originally called the Grape and Grain festival when it began in 1965?
6—Four US States start with the letter W. Can you name them?
7—Who had hits with ‘Johnny B. Goode’ and ‘Roll Over Beethoven’?
8—Who founded the company Amazon?
cure the Final Place in Finals Night. Next up in the Northend Bar Summer Series Of Darts Finals Night this Saturday 7th September.
Playing for the first running of the Paddy Dixon Cup it promises to be a great evening of darts with the first games due to start at 7pm.
We would like to thank all our Sponsors: Imperial Hotel, Mullens Roden Place, Gonnelly Signs, Smashers, Bellurgan Engineering, Northend Bar Ring A Drink, Shang Garden Chinese Takeaway Louth Village & 5’s Taxis.
9—They are called eggplants in the US but what do we traditionally call them?
10—Where in Ireland would you find The Spanish Arch?
The Stinker: Can you name the Irish Poet who became Team Ireland’s first ever Olympic medalist at the Olympic Games in Paris in 1924?
ANSWERS
Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick and the Independent Regional Group of TDs have published their pre-budget submission.
Sheila Meehan (Northend Bar), Martin Carvill and Aidan Thompson. Martin secured his place on finals night with victory over Aidan.
Collective action overcomes the politics of hate
COLLECTIVE action by workers within their communities is crucial to facing down the spread of far-right hate and misinformation, SIPTU Organiser, Brian Condra, told the Rally Against Racism organised by Dundalk Communities United, in Earl Street, Dundalk, on Sunday (25th August).
Addressing the event, Brian Condra, said: “The labour movement begins in your workplace but it does not end there. It must also be on our streets, in our houses and in our communities. The labour movement is based on the power of the collective, the politics of hate and division are directly opposed to that.
“In Ireland, our history has told us what the power of the collective can do in the face of an overwhelming colonial power and disaster. James Connolly the forefather of the trade union movement of this land, was himself
the child of migrants, who knew the hatred and the fear that came with that. He spent most of his life outside of Ireland. In the US he once made the observation that Ireland must become the beacon of freedom to the oppressed, we should be that beacon.”
He added: “It is not enough to just be anti-racist, we must be antiintolerance of all kinds. As a collective, that is how we will build a better Ireland. The far-right has been thoroughly rejected by the local community in Dundalk, it is you through the power of the collective which has removed them from our streets.”
The Rally Against Racism was a family-friendly event which included an interactive art piece under the theme ‘If your table’s too small make it bigger’ and live performances by local musicians. The rally was called in opposition to recent far-right rallies in Dundalk.
Ardee Concert Band Bingo Night
Ardee Concert Band’s Bingo session continues this Sunday night in the Bohemian Centre, Ardee, at 8pm. Doors open from 7pm. Ten game book plus Jackpot sheet and extra games played on the night. Jackpot on the night will be €3,300.
Unbeli-EVE-able!
JENKINSTOWN native promised she would go to war with Katie George Dunleavy for the dynamic duo’s last ever competitive track race and that’s exactly what transpired with the pair putting it up to Sophie Unwin and Jenny Holl in a thrilling 3000m Individual Pursuit final on Sunday afternoon.
Katie and Eve quickly got in front and at one stage they led by over a second and a half as they looked to go hard early on. Gradually however the British pair slowly began to reduce that gap and with 500 metres remaining Unwin and Holl took the lead before passing the finishing line in front in a time of 3:19:.149.
Eve and Katie-George came home just over two seconds later in a time of 3:21.315 having giving every last ounce of themselves. The pair will have no regrets and there will be no wondering what might have been. They went out hard, gave it their all and fell just short against a quality British team. To
I just want to say thank you to every single one of them. Without them, we wouldn’t be here today with a medal around our necks.”
that her two daughters, Ava and Nessa, were in Paris to witness their mother’s achievement.
even make the final was a magnificent achievement given the less than ideal preparations the pair endured coming into the games.
In May, Dunleavy suffered a serious injury in a UCI World Cup paracycling event in Maniago, Italy when she broke her collarbone after falling off the bike following a front wheel puncture. And then a week prior to the start of the games Dunleavy had to battle with a bug which curtailed her final preparations for the race.
Speaking after the race to Paralympics Ireland, Eve expressed her delight with the silver medal while confirm-
ing that this was the last time she would race with Dunleavy.
“Yeah, they’re very different. When you’re so close to gold, you’re slightly disappointed you didn’t get it but we’re absolutely ecstatic with silver. It goes beyond what we knew we could do it but we’re up against three British bikes.”
“It lets a little bit of doubt creep in. Underneath it all we knew we could do it but you have to deliver it on the day. I didn’t get to say it with RTÉ there but the staff that we have around us, I just want you to mention them.
“It’s such a small team but we’re treated so well.
Talking about their preparation, she said, “It’s very hard. We’re ten years together. It took us a few years to get to the top. It’s really hard to get to the top and it’s fricking harder to stay there. You have so much pressure. I don’t think we ever felt external pressure from people but it was external pressure that both of us felt to stay there. That’s just so hard to do as an athlete.
“When the two of you are together you constantly don’t want to let each other down so you’re fighting every single day – that’s the fight for the last three years coming out there in a medal. We’ve always just trusted each other. Even with the collarbone, I was like, ‘She’ll be back.’ That doesn’t faze me at all. Collarbone, whatever…”
The silver medal was extra special for McCrystal given the fact
“From when my kids were born, they have seen me training in the kitchen in turbo trainers. Every single day. For all of them to see all of our hard work, that resilience, that determination, for them to see that and a medal, I can’t put that into words.”
Sunday’s race marks the end of one of the truly bst partnerships in Irish sport. In just over a decade the duo have won an astonishing 21 medals together on the bike with six coming over the space of three Paralympic Games (Rio, Tokyo and Paris) and the remaining 15 coming via various World Championships. 46 year old McCrystal will have one last dance this weekend in the road race where she will pilot Josephine Healion in the road race before ending what has been one of the great success stories of one of our greatest local athletes.
Eve McCrystal and Katie George-Dunleavy finished their Paralympic career together with a sillver medal.
Sinn Féin to run two candidates in Louth Dundalk Special Olympics 2024 Leinster Bocce League champions
SINN Féin is to run two candidates in the general election in Louth, following a selection convention in Dundalk last night. Sitting TD Ruairí Ó Murchú in Dundalk will be joined by Cllr. Joanna Byrne in Drogheda, who is replacing Deputy Imelda Munster who is retiring.
Sinn Féin members packed into the hall in Muirhevnamor, named after their late director of elections, Kevin Mulgrew, for the event, which was chaired by South Armagh-based councillor, Declan Murphy. All seven recentlyelected Louth County Councillors for the party were in attendance.
Cllr. Byrne was nominated by Fearghal Donnelly and seconded by Joanne Thompson from the Bobby Sands Cumann in Drogheda, while Deputy Ó Murchú was nominated by Cllr. Kevin Meenan from Duffy Downey Cumann and seconded by Cllr. Antóin Watters from the Campbell Donnelly Cumann.
In her acceptance speech, Cllr. Byrne said she was honoured to have received the nomination and while she has ‘big shoes to fill in the absence of Imelda Munster’ she would ‘build on the work done before me, to stand up for those who need me and be that continued voice on a national scale for the families and our community that has been left behind by successive governments - who have turned a blind eye to this region over many decades when it comes to
investment and services’.
Deputy Ruairí Ó
Murchú said he was ‘humbled and honoured’ to be nominated once more and said was building on the work that had been done by republicans in the county over many years. He said it had been ‘the privilege of his life’ to serve as a Sinn Féin TD for Louth and said he wanted to continue to work to represent all those who were being failed by government policies.
BOCCE the game of skill and patience. Every Saturday morning you will find Dundalk Special Olympics athletes training at the Redeemer family Centre. A specialised mat gets rolled out and the teams start the warm-up.
According to Special Olympics Ireland website, ”Bocce is an Italian game which is very similar to awn Bowls. Opposing players and teams play with either red or green balls, competing in singles, doubles and teem events. The basic principle of the sport is to roll a bocce ball closest to target ball, which is called the pallina.”
“Bocce is a wonderful game that can be played by anybody with an intellectual disability of any age, including players with physical disabilities.” Says coach Caroline O’Hare.
Dundalk Special Olympics club players, played in the North Leinster League Division, travelling to various venues to compete. The club had two teams
entered, coached by Caroline O’Hare and Brenda Murphy. Dundalk B, secured a fantastic 4th place and Dundalk A, walked away as champions. Celebrating their fantastic performances, players were presented with their medals at the last training of the year. Some food and drink were enjoyed with their families and friends. The club reopens this week for training after the Summer and if anybody is interested in joining, please contact our secretary at dundalkspecialolympics@ gmail.com.
First Day at School in Kilsaran N.S
Free Musical Concert
The Power of Musical Concert returns to An Tain Theatre on the 7th of September at 4 p.m. Why not join us. We promise it will be amazing. Entry is free.
Prayer Meeting
“Bethany”, House of Prayer, 34 Point Road, Dundalk. Prayer Meeting 9th September and every Monday night at 8pm.
Suicide
Awareness
SAFE Castlebellingham
(Suicide Awareness For Everyone) held a successful re-launch at the O’Connells GFC in Castlebellingham last Saturday night, 31st August, to celebrate the re-launch of our community service. SAFE Castlebellingham is a Community Support organisation who help people facing suicidal ideation and our service delivery model has been fine tuned over the last few months to focus on those in most need.
Ruairí Ó Murchú TD and Cllr. Joanne Byrne will were selected to run for General Election.
Dundalk Special Olympics club players, played in the North Leinster League Division, travelling to various venues to compete.
The club had two teams entered, coached by Caroline O’Hare and Brenda Murphy.
FAMILY NOTICES
IN MEMORIAM 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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). M. & H.S.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).
A.D.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).
B.C.
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). M.T.
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. One Our Father and three Hail Marys, and a Glory Be Amen; 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.
AN CHUIRT DUICHE
THE DISTRICT COURT
District Court Area of Dundalk District No. 6
LIAM BOYLE -APPLICANT
(as Nominee of Blue Diamond Sports No. 2 Limited)
To: The District Court Clerk, District Court Office, Courthouse, Dundalk; The Superintendent, An Garda Siochana, The Crescent, Dundalk; The Secretary, Louth County Council, County Hall, Millennium Centre, Dundalk; The Chief Fire Officer, Louth County Council, County Hall, St. Alphonsus Road, Dundalk; AND TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.
TAKE NOTICE that the above named Applicant of 8 Park Street, Dundalk County Louth, as Nominee of Blue Diamond Sports No. 2 Limited will apply to the District Court sitting at Dundalk on the 8th day of October 2024 at 10.30 a.m. for a Certificate under Section 15 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956, authorising the issue of a Licence permitting Gaming at an Amusement Hall or Funfare, namely Brannigans Gaming situate at Number 8, Park Street, Dundalk in the said Court area. The number and kind of games proposed to be carried on are as follows:110 Gaming Machines.
AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the Applicant will rely on the following matters in support of his Application.
1.The Applicant is not disqualified by Section 8 of the said Act from the promotion of Gaming under Section 6 or 7 thereof.
2. Forms of entertainment other than Gaming are also to be provided, to wit, 5 Video Games. Dated this 28thday of August 2024.
Signed: Brian Berrills & Company,Solicitors, 18 Francis Street, Dundalk, County Louth.
Women’s Shed September schedule
DUNDALK Women’s Shed resumes weekly meeting on Monday 9 September with a packed autumn programme.
Dundalk Women’s Shed is a great community group for all women over 18 which meets up on Mondays at 10am in the Wellington Hall, St Mary’s Road. We offer a packed programme of varied talks, therapies and exercise as well as classes which include painting and crafts. We have a weekly walking group, a gardening group and a monthly book group and we organise outings to the theatre and the cinema and day excursions to major attractions in the region. Starting our third year, we are now an established social group where people learn new skills, meet new people and develop new friendships. We actively look to support it each other and to provide
Dundalk Women’s Shed have a packed schedule for autumn.
new experiences for people to make good social connection and maintain an active lifestyle. Up to 65 members join up weekly when we have a speaker for 40 minutes followed by tea and chat. We also do quizzes, exercise and sometimes dance and we celebrate regularly. We promote and avail of all the events that are organised locally by the Library, the Tourist Office and Louth Sports
Partnership. People can come when they please and all we request is a weekly donation of €3.00 if possible to cover the cost of Hall rental and tea. After one visit, you are considered a member.
We start to meet again on Monday 9th September and our programme for September is as follows: 9th September Chair Yoga with Debbie Mulligan;
ARTICLES FOR SALE SPECIAL SERVICES SPECIAL SERVICES
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.
SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.
APARTMENT TO RENT in Dundalk, very good location. Telephone 087 2788573.
ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED either with a family or in a separate house/apartment for a Ukranian lady and her child. €800.00 of rent will be tax free. Nice lady, no bad habits, very neat and tidy. Please phone 087 6480845.
SEEKING one DKIT female student to share a 2 bed apartment with another female student. Carrick Rd area. Please contact 087 9536395.
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. ContactCathal 087-225-9799.
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.
GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.
16th September Cooking Indian food with our member, Kawaljit Kaur Kaint; 23rd September Coffee Morning in aid of North Louth Hospice; 30th September Outing to Farmleigh House and Gardens (Currently Fully Booked); 7th October Pelvic Floor health with therapist Ruth Moore; 14th October Introduction to treasures in Dundalk Museum with Curator, Brian Byrne; 21st October Creative Movement with May Coyle. We always welcome new members so come along and see if you enjoy being with us. We would like to meet you. Contact us on: Email womenssheddundalk@gmail.com Facebook www.facebook.com/ DundalkWomensShed
Press contact Joan Mc Adam womenssheddundalk@gmail.com.
MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.
ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.
GARDEN MAINTENANCE—Hedge cutting, Lawn cutting, Powerwashing, fencing. Slabs laid. Contact Brian 086109-7358.
FIFI’S ALTERATIONS— Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.
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 MAIN-
TAINENCE—Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.
CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVIC -
ES— 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 Robert on 083 0777666.
DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES— Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.
FORTUNE TELLER— Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 08767-51229.
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.
CARPENTRY & JOINERY— Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.
CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.
GARDENS/POWER washing - one stop garden service, large & small lawn cutting, strimming, hedges, tidy-ups, power washing, clearances. Contact Will’s Services 085-860-4048.
WINDSOR LANDSCAPING— Installation, maintenance & refurbishment services. Driveways, paths, patios, walls, block paving, tarmac, gravel, natural stone, flagging. For free quotation contact Joe 085 1974414 or 0044 7932362648.
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.
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.
GOLDEN OLDIES? Call the Nostalgia Line for Karaoke and singing for birthdays, anniversaries, parties etc. Call Nicky on 0874128526.
LADY AVAILABLE for housework, Blackrock area only Tel 086 3502686.
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 8pm10pm, 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.
PAINTING SERVICES AVAIL -
ABLE— 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.
PLASTERING— (all aspects), Tiling, Painting (exterior & interior) and general maintenance Louth/Monaghan area. Tel Gary 083-0634440.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Re -
pairs, 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 085-7623758 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.
WEEKLY SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink Retail Park, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations.com.
FRENCH GRINDS— Junior cycle and leaving cert grinds available from an experienced teacher. Call or message 0872258588 for further details. Limited spaces available.
FRENCH/SPANISH GRINDS available in Dundalk. Experienced examiner and teacher. Available after school on Tuesdays/Wednesdays. Email sophiep@gcdd.ie.
EASY-GOING country lad, mid 50s with GSOH seeks like-minded female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/talks and to share the simple things in life. Tel: 0868220403.
TREE
Wheelie Bins
For a free no obligation quotation
Callsave: 1850 774455
Tel. 042 9333513
Web: www.senatorwindows.ie
Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.
Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2 After hours by appointment
Inclusion Louth Family Fun Day
FURTHER to the success of Inclusion Louth’s previous Family Fun Days, the local support group for families of those with intellectual disabilities held another Family Fun Day on Sunday 25th August, this year the event was again in Blackrock Haggardstown Community Centre where over 200 family members, young and old had a wonderful afternoon. Families were invited through contacts with St John of God Services, Rehab Care, Praxis Care and HSE. The highlight of the day for the children were the amusements provided by Pelican Promotions, also facepainting for the young and Tommy the wonderful magician who entertained all with his magic show. Paul Callan of Louth Disability Cycling Club brought out several Trishaws – and provided wheelchair users with exciting bicycle spins around nearby Blackrock Park.
Alan McEneaney, a PayPal volunteer, did DJ and his music provided a great atmosphere. Other PayPal volunteers manned the registration and car parking. Delicious food was provided by Conlon Catering, ice-creams were donated by HB and crisps and minerals also provided through local sponsorship. The Selfie Mirror Party Promotions photographs were a great success and partygoers took home a lovely memento of their enjoyable day. Chairman Eoghan Bailey thanked his committee and the many volunteers including those of Blackrock Haggardstown Community Centre for helping to make the day such a wonderful success.
Louth GAA will be backed by Blackstone for another three years
BLACKSTONE Motors are delighted to confirm the renewal of their mobility sponsorship with Louth GAA for another 3 years.
With the dynamic Ger Brennan recently taking the reins, Louth experienced a stellar campaign in 2024 reaching the All Ireland Quarter Finals in Croke Park. Blackstone Motors increased their support of Louth GAA over the past three years supplying a brand new Renault Trafic for the training supplies and kit transportation along with three Renault Arkana for the Management Team and Captain.
“This is our biggest sponsorship to date and we are delighted to be part of how Louth GAA has grown in strength over the past few years. It’s a fantastic feel good story that we want Blackstone to be apart of and we hope
the whole county gets behind Ger, Sam and all the Team for the new campaigns” Noel Stewart, Managing Director of Blackstone Motors.
“It’s amazing on match day looking at our name and logo on the back of all the Louth shirts, it’s makes us all very proud” Donal Waters, Director of Blackstone Motors outlined. “Both my Children play GAA and are mad Louth GAA sup-
porters, its brilliant to be associated through our company sponsorship of Louth GAA and we wish Ger and the Team the very Best.
“Louth GAA are delighted to extend our sponsorship arrangement with Blackstone Motors for another 3 years” . Louth GAA have enjoyed a hugely successful period during the first term of our association with Blackstone Motors and we
hope that this will be repeated in the years to come. They are a huge sponsor and supporter of local sport across Co. Louth and we are delighted that they have decided to expand this further by teaming up with us once again.” said County Chairperson – Seán McClean Louth GAA will be Backed By Blackstone for the next three years.
Alzheimer’s Memory Walk
THE fifth annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk takes place nationwide next month on Sunday, 22nd September 2024. Set to be the largest Memory Walk to date, Anne Shortt from The Alzheimer Society of Ireland in Louth is urging the people of Louth to register now at www.memorywalk.ie and walk with her on the 22nd September in Drogheda. Speaking ahead of Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, Anne commented, “I am really looking forward to this year’s Louth Memory Walk. It is going to be a great day to get together and walk with and for loved ones who are living with dementia and to remember loved ones who are sadly no longer with us. It is a chance to share memories and create new
ones together and is such a lovely event for everyone who attends. I would encourage everyone who can to register now at www. memorywalk.ie to join me on September 22nd at St Dominick’s Park in Drogheda at 1.45pm.”
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is encouraging everyone to get behind this year’s Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, supported by Payzone, on Sunday, September 22nd to help raise awareness and funds to help those living with dementia.
Register online now at www. memorywalk.ie to make and share memories on Sunday, 22nd September at a location near you. You will receive an Alzheimer’s Memory Walk Participant Pack including your t-shirt and a spe-
cial pack of Forget Me Not flower seeds to sow at home to help create an annual memory each time the flowers bloom. Adult registration costs €20 and a child’s pack is €5.
Memory Walk honours, remembers, and celebrates the 64,000 people in Ireland living with dementia, along with their families and carers. It also cherishes the memory of those who are no longer with us. In 2023, 3,500 walkers participated in Memory Walk and raised over €120,000 which helped fund vital services for people with dementia, including Daycare, Daycare at Home, Family Carer Training, Social Clubs, Cafés, and a National Helpline.
Noel Stewart (Blackstone Motors), Ger Brennan (Louth GAA Senior Football Manager), Sean McClean (Chairman of Louth County Board) and Donal Watters (Blackstone Motors).
Conor Macken winner of the 33rd. Fatima Open Golf tournament presented by Leo Martin and Paul Mathews administrators who would like to thank our sponsors and all those who helped to make the day a great success. Photo C. Cullen.
