04-10-2023

Tom calls time on historic bottle

By Paul Byrne

A treAsured piece of local history will go up for auction next week as a bottle of Hennessy Brandy from World War II goes under the hammer at Irish Whiskey Auctions.

After the war, the French government gifted all soldiers with a bottle of Hennessy Cognac Brandy as a thank you and one of those bottles was gifted to former dundalk resident Thomas O’ Connor who served with the united states Navy in the Allied fight against Hitler and the Nazis in World War II. tom would later pass on that bottle to his eldest son, also called tom, who says that he feels it is time

to find a new home for the bottle.

“I’ve had the bottle in my possession since 1980 and it is just sitting on a shelf and I feel now is the right time to find a new owner for it. My father was born in springfield, Massachusetts in 1923 but moved our family to Ireland determined to prevent his sons getting drafted into the us Army to fight in the Vietnam war. He always said he didn’t want any of us to experience what he had during World War II. My mother was Irish so that’s why we emigrated to Ireland.

“We went to live in dundalk about 1977, having previously lived in dublin for about 1½ years. Continued

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o’connor with his father’s World War 2 bottle of hennessy cognac.

Tom calls time on historic bottle

From Page 1

“My parents bought a house at 186 Ard Easmuinn where they lived for a number of years before moving to 1 Cuchulainn terrace.

“My father worked at Larry Goodman’s abattoir in Ravensdale and at the S&S Engineering Works in the old GNR Works buildings on the old Ardee Road near the old Macardle Moore Brewery, as a tool and Cutter Grinder.

“he got this bottle of hennessy Brandy in France at the end of his military service and he kept it to remind him (and us) to never forget. As I am the oldest son (of 4 boys and 3 girls), he gave it to me in 1980 (about the time I got married), and he

died in 1989.

“he participated in the Normandy Landing on omaha Beach on the second day. his LSt landing craft was hit and disabled on landing on the beach. he was then assigned on duties with the “clean up crew” cleaning up the beach of the body parts,

dead and seriously injured.

“he was a very humble and private man, and he never spoke about his times in the navy, except once.

“he told me he was running up the beach the first day and he tripped. he looked back and saw a German boot. then he realised

there was a leg in the boot.

“he was awarded the united States Military Bronze Star for heroic achievement and meritorious bravery and service in a combat zone for his actions,” concluded tom.

Robert Johnson, a whiskey expert from Irish Whiskey Auctions (who are based at the Brewery Business Park, Ardee Road, Dundalk) says that the bottle is almost eighty years old and is very rare with most other bottles that were gifted to soldiers either drunk or lost.

“the Allied troops were given hennessy Brandy by the French government in 1945 as a thank you for liberating the country. thomas has furnished us with all the proof and it is clear

Ger takes over the Louth GAA hotseat

Louth County Board have wasted little time in naming Mickey harte’s successor following the shock resignation of the tyrone native two weeks ago. on Monday evening in Darver the board officially ratified Dubliner Ger Brennan as the new Louth Senior football team manager on a 2-year deal, with the option of a third upon review.

the former Dublin All-Ireland winning defender will take charge of the Louth Senior Football team in what will be his first ever senior inter-county management role. While he doesn’t possess much experience at intercounty level (he has previously worked with Carlow as a coach)

, his supporters will note that he has assembled a strong backroom team comprising James McCartan, Niall Moyna, James Downey and David Whyte, as well as Paul o’Flynn who is to act as the

Ger Brennan.

team’s Sports Psycologist.

Brennan was part of the Dublin backroom team when they won the All-Ireland senior title under Pat Gilroy in 2011. Brennan

was centre-back on that team and was previously involved with St Vincent’s when they won the AllIreland club title in 2008.

two weeks ago legendary tyrone manager Mickey harte shocked Louth GAA supporters when he told county chairman Peter Fitzpatrick that he had decided to take up an offer from Derry to manage them next season. harte had enjoyed an excellent three year stint with Louth alongside coach Gavin Devlin, having brought Louth from Division 4 to 2 following his appointment in November 2020. this season, the three-time All Ireland winner led them to a first provincial final since 2010 and a fantastic third place finish in Division 2. he told Peter Fitzpatrick that he couldn’t turn the offer down to manager Derry as he wanted to have one last realistic crack at winning an All-Ireland.

that this is the real deal and is what he says it is. We are very excited to have it up for auction on thursday week (13th october) and we expect plenty of interest in it,” predicted Robert.

“We have 10,000 registered users and nine staff and our online auctions are watched by people from all over the globe. the whiskey industry is booming right now and 50% of what we sell each month at auctions leave the country. It’s not too often we see a bottle of hennessy cognac dating back to 1945 and in such good condition and we are excited ahead of the auction,” added Robert. the date of the auction is the 13th of october at Irish Whiskey Auctions.

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Geraldine Shields, Philip Kirk (Toales Bar), Linda and Brian Traynor present Maura O’Callaghan from the North Louth Hospice (second from left) with a cheque for €5000 which was raised by the Kirk and Traynor families via their Harmonious Hearts charity gig last month.

The bottles of Hennessy Cognac were gifted to the allied forces by the French government after WWII.

Conradh Na Gaeilge helping to keep our language alive

CoNRADh

na Gaeilge

Dún Dealgan are on a mission to help preserve and promote the use of our national language. the Dundalk branch includes a committee of eight, who meet regularly to plan events that enable a broader group of Irish speakers around Dundalk to meet and speak the language. All speakers of Irish are welcome to attend events – from learners to fluent speakers, and people of all ages and backgrounds

Conradh na Gaeilge Dundalk is located in an historic building at 5 Seatown Place. It was here that the first Irishlanguage version of the bible was translated by Dundalk man Peadar Ó Dubhda, after whom the Dundalk branch of Conradh na Gaeilge is named – ‘Craobh Pheadair uí Dhubhda’. C

According to Cathriona Connor, Chairperson of Conradh na Gaeilge, Dún Dealgan, the group is very active and there are plenty of opportunities for people who want to learn Irish to get involved.

“the building on Seatown Place is home to some regular activities

that enable Irish speakers in Dundalk to meet and speak the language. Irish language classes take place there on Monday evenings, with the new term starting on 9th october. on tuesday evenings the building comes alive with a large number of young people attending two Irish-language youth clubs: Óg-Ógras is an Irish-language club for primary school children, and Club Ógras for secondary school students. the branch’s other activities and events take place in various locations around town – for example, a book club in the County Library on tuesday afternoons, a

few drinks with ‘comhrá’ in the Bartender on Wednesday nights, and a conversation circle in Strandfield on Thursdays. Very shortly, a new conversation circle especially for second-level students from transition year to Leaving Cert will be starting to enable young people in that age group to practise their spoken Irish,” explains Cathriona. there are eight committee members who meet regularly to plan and facilitate events and activities. For them, and for the larger community of Irish speakers in town, the language is a way of life that enriches their

lives and connects them to our heritage and culture, past and present.

County Louth is a former Gaeltacht county, having had an Irishspeaking community in omeath up until the start of the twentieth century. the Irish language college, Coláiste Bhríde, was established in omeath with the help of Pádraig Pearse and Eoin o’Neill and it was there that teachers came to improve their Irish until the college was moved to Rannafast in Donegal in 1926. Recordings of the last of Louth’s native Irish speakers in omeath are available online and provide a fascinating

audio record of what the Louth dialect of Irish sounded like – imagine native speakers of Irish speaking in a north-Louth accent!

the link between Coláiste Bhríde in Rannafast and county Louth remains very strong. Every summer, large numbers of young people from Louth attend Gaeltacht courses in Rannafast.

Supporting education is an important aspect of the work of the branch.

Dundalk Conradh na Gaeilge provided Irishlanguage resources to teachers in the area, host table quizzes, and feiseanna. Feis Muirthemhna, which takes place in

St Malachy’s hall every year, is facilitated by Conradh na Gaeilge and gives young children a chance to build their confidence by performing on stage, using their cúpla focal Gaeilge. the branch continues to actively suport the new Gaelcholáiste, which recently opened on the Ramparts, and welcomed its first intake of students last month.

the committee also organises a range of social and cultural events, such as traditional singing workshops and guest lectures. Last summer’s guest lecture saw Dr Gearóid trimble give a talk on the hugely valuable work of John hannon

– the ‘forgotten’ Gaelic collector and scholar from Crossmaglen. In the previous lecture, Niall Sloane gave a very interesting talk on the life and work of Peadar Ó Dubhda – who is also a somewhat forgotten but hugely important figure in the history of the Irish language in the area. Ó Dubhda was an accomplised scholar, translator, teacher, music composer, radio presenter, and writer, amongst other talents. For those who prefer the outdoors, the branch organises regular hikes, walks, and golf classics. there have been hikes up the Rooskey Loop to the Forgotten Village,

and along the omeath Greenway. A golf classic in September saw Irishspeaking golfers enjoy a day out in Greenore Golf Club, where tees on the course were renamed with Irish names for the day. A prize-giving social night took place afterwards in Byrne’s of hill St., with traditional music provided by renowned fiddle player Gerry o’Connor, accordionist Martin Quinn, and piper Brendan McCreanor. More hikes, bike rides and outdoor events are in the plans for the months ahead.

the branch has also welcomed visiting branches from other parts of the country. the summers of 2023 and 2022 saw Conradh na Gaeilge branches from Munster visit and enjoy guided tours to places of linguistic and cultural heritage around north Louth and south Armagh, with traditional music, song and hospitality.

New Irish speakers are welcome to attend upcoming events. Follow Dundalk Conradh na Gaeilge on social media using @CnaGDD or email CnaGDD@gmail. com

Some of the local members of Conradh na Gaeilge, Dún Dealgan. Piper, Brendan McCreanor, Fiddle player Gerry O’Connor and accordionist Martin Quinn play at a recent social event in Byrne’s Pub.

Mark’s epic five year journey ends in Carlingford

A MAN who has spent the last five years sailing around the uK and Ireland in a bid to raise funds for charity finished the last leg of his journey

in Carlingford on Friday last.

Mark Ashley-Miller from Dorset, England has raised thousands for the Seafarers’ Charity

by completing this epic challenge.

“I came up with the idea when I bought a boat in 2018. My father was in the Royal Navy

and the Seafarers’ Charity is a very good charity,” said Mark.

“It does a lot of good work in terms of mental health. Seafarers’ work in a fairly invisible industry.

“All of our goods come in by ship but unfortunately, seafarers often don’t get looked after well by employers.”

Mark added: “I started this challenge in March 2019 thinking it would be nice to go up the West coast of Scotland.

“In 2020 to 2021 I sailed from Scotland to London and in 2022 I went from London back to Dorset.

“this year I’ve sailed to the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.”

he continued: “I’ve had some help with around 90 people –friends and family –

crewing as I don’t like to sail alone.

“the biggest challenge I’ve faced while

doing this is bad weather. Sailing is hard work in bad weather.

“It also hasn’t been

easy trying to get in contact with every harbourmaster as there is no list or directory. I had to arrange meeting the harbourmasters and getting in at the right time.”

Mark concluded:

“harbourmasters are very welcoming. they are very aware of the dangers and are very good at communicating. they know a lot about the sea.

“Initially, I thought I would try to do two years but this journey has turned into five years. It’s quite a long time and now that the challenge is coming to an end I feel quite emotional.”

For more information or to donate please visit www.harbourmastersailingchallenge.co.uk

Faughart Community Group to unveil the ‘Bruce Boulder’

A direcT descendant of edward Bruce (the last High King of ireland), Lord charles edward Bruce will officially unveil the ‘Bruce Boulder’ on Friday 13th of October at Faughart Graveyard. This prestigious event is being hosted by the Faughart Community Group on behalf of The Ulster Scots Agency.

The boulder is one of just a few that The Ulster Scots have commissioned to commemorate important sites associated with Edward Bruce.

Dr. Alison Lennon will give a brief account of the significance of Edward Bruce’s Irish campaign from 1315 to his death in The Battle of Faughart on October 14th, 1318 and a piper will also perform some Scottish laments as the attendees walk into the graveyard and as Lord Bruce officially unveils the ‘Bruce Boulder’.

There will also be invited dignitaries from both sides of the border but all are welcome to witness this special occasion on the historical Hill of Faughart – Legend’s Viewing Point. The Faughart Community Group look forward to seeing you there at 11am on Friday 13th October and urge everyone to take a moment to appreciate the fantastic view sweeping from Dundalk across the bay to The Cooleys and The Mournes and back towards The Gap Of the North. There is no doubt that it is one of the best viewing points in the NorthEast

Mural of Edward Bruce on Francis St. by Irish artist ACHES.

Mark Ashley Miller completed his five year sailing journey around the UK and Ireland in Carlingford on Friday.

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Lucy following in brothers’ footsteps

thE holland brothers have been making a name for themselves on the national and international power-lifting scene in recent years and their success has inspired sister Lucy to follow in their footsteps with the fifteen year old all set to take part in her debut competition in Limerick next month.

22 year old Jordan burst onto the scene as a teenager breaking national and world records for his age class when he was just fifteen years old.

Earlier this year Jordan’s brother Scott made headlines when he made the Irish team and won his division with an amazing performance, made all the more impressive given the fact he was one of the youngest in his section. the thirteen year old competed in the u16 section

and squatted 125kgs, benched 72.5kgs and dead-lifted 132.5kgs. he also went 9 for 9 lifts on the day and totaled 330 kg which was a new national record and also a new national total record.

Now there is a third holland kid on the verge of making waves on the national scene with fifteen-year old Coláiste Chú Chulainn student Lucy training hard ahead

of her debut at the AIPo Charity Competition which will take place in Limerick on the 25th November.

Lucy will compete in the teenage youth girls section and she admits to being a little nervous as well as excited ahead of her competition debut.

“I am very excited to compete and although I’ll probably be a little nervous I am used to

normal teenage stuff like going out to discos and stuff but to be honest I absolutely love training and being in the gym and it makes me feel happy,” explains Lucy.

“My mam and Dad are our chief supporters and down through the years we have always travelled to these tournaments as a family and Mam and Dad would always be in the same seats cheering the boys on. It will be weird this year with me competing on the floor rather than sitting beside Mam and Dad supporting the boys but I can’t wait and hopefully it will be the first competition of many,” she added.

Meanwhile Jordan continued his recent good form when he competed in the Battle of the Boyne competition recently, winning the under 90 junior and senior categories. he squatted 240, benched 135 and deadlifted 230 for a new PB total for him of 605.

seeing how the competitions work from all the years going to support Jordan and more recently Scott.

“on the day of the competition my aim is to squat 80kgs and deadlift 85kgs. We have a shed down the back of the garden which we call the dungeon and we train in there for a couple of hours in the evenings. People ask me if I feel I’m missing out on

he is now taking the rest of the year off to coach Scott and his sister Lucy for the AIPo Chairty comp held in Nov on the 25. Jay is planning a big off season to build on his numbers for the Nationals next year and also the Worlds which are being held in Ireland. he would like to thank Ruairi McCann for his help on the day as well as getting him ready for the Battle of the Boyne.

??? QUIZ ???

1—The Ryder Cup was last held in Ireland in 2006. What course was it played on?

2—Which car manufacturer makes/made the following models? 307, 407, 207 Spider.

3—Coca Cola is Ireland’s best selling carbonated soft drink. What is the second biggest seller?

4—What famous festival, first took place in 1810 as a celebration of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen?

5—Can you name the Dundalk woman who scored a hat-rick against Wales in 1973 in what was the Irish senior ladies soccer team’s first international game?

6—Jackson is the capital city of which US state?

7—Dublin is divided into three administrative counties. Can you name them?

8—How many countries share a border with Portugal?

9—What are Marge’s twin sisters in the TV show The Simpsons called?

10—Which 13th century Scottish knight did Mel Gibson portray in Braveheart? The Stinker—What was the best selling film soundtrack of the 1970’s in the UK?

5—Paula Gorham, 6—Mississippi,

7—Dun athdown,rLaoghaire- Fingal and South Dublin, 8—One (Spain), 9—Patty and Selma, 10—William Wallace. The Stinker: Saturday ightn Fever.

Lucy Holland is following in her brothers’ footsteps in the world of powerlifting.

Scott and Jordan celebrate gold medals at the National powerlifting championships recently.

Local barristers strike over legal aid fees

By Tamara O’Connell

LoCAL barristers who work in criminal law gathered on the steps of Dundalk Courthouse on tuesday, october 3 to highlight a dispute about pay cuts.

the barristers took part in a nationwide strike for the first time in a row about pay cuts imposed in the aftermath of the financial crash.

the group of barristers was joined by criminal defence solicitors, who also withdrew their services on the day.

the one-day strike has disrupted proceedings in criminal cases, which have been adjourned by judges.

According to local criminal barrister Kevin Seagrave, barristers “very much regret that the action had to take place”.

“Repeated Ministers for Justice have looked at the issue and the current Minister for Justice doesn’t

oppose it,” said Mr Seagrave.

“there’s an overwhelming compulsion in our souls to represent our clients. We see this as a Government issue.

“Barristers have suffered a pay cut in real terms of more than 40 per cent over the past 20 years while every other group of workers in the criminal justice system has seen pay restoration implemented.”

Mr Seagrave added: “It’s terrible for young barristers in particular who might want to get married and have children and get a mortgage.

“It’s worrying for the future of the whole system of justice. We need proper defence and prosecution and we need well qualified professionals.

“It’s a simple question of fairness. In times of need, we took the pay cuts. Fairness would dictate that it be restored now. We need action.”

ZOMA Open in DunDAlk with the creAtiOn Of ten jObs—following an investment of €600,000, and over 18 months of planning and renovations, ZoMa, the multi-award winning creative design and branding agency has unveiled its new studio office space in dundalk town centre (park st), with the announcement of the creation of 10 new positions at the firm over the coming 12 months.

Barristers gather at Dundalk Courthouse to highlight a dispute about pay cuts. Barristers nationwide took part in a one day withdrawal of services on Tuesday.

Fitzpatrick demands government action to overhaul school transport scheme

DEPUTy Peter Fitzpatrick alongside the Regional Group of TDs have published their motion imploring the Government to address the mounting problems disrupting the school transport scheme. “This Dáil motion highlights the critical role of the school transport scheme in the lives of families and children and calls for immediate and comprehensive reform”, comments Deputy Fitzpatrick.

“The school transport scheme is recognised as an indispensable service for families and children across the country and it is crucial in ensuring access to school for more than 149,000 children, including more than 18,000 children with special educational needs”.

Commonly stressing rural issues, Deputy Fitzpatrick highlights the lack of access to public transport in rural areas and, therefore, the need for a fit-for-purpose school transport scheme for all students requiring transport to their nearest school, irrespective of distance

Deputy Fitzpatrick and the Regional TDs also identify the inadequacy of the current scheme to meet these objectives. “There is a vital need to reduce car journeys for environmental reasons and promote bus travel for school commutes. Still, there are continuing disruptions due to the non-availability of buses and poor compensation to private operators”, states Deputy Fitzpatrick.

Deputy Fitzpatrick also stresses the additional challenges posed, such as an arbitrary age cap which is hampering part-time drivers from participating, discrepancies in the allocation of concessionary tickets despite available seats, inadequate support for special needs children and late notifications that leave families to reorganise work at short notice.

The Regional Group of TDs are calling upon the Government to take immediate action by:

ensuring that families issued with concessionary tickets in the past continue to benefit from the service.

Fulfilling previous commitments regarding the provision of school transport services in the event of school closures.

Allocating adequate funding in the 2024 Budget to significantly expand school transport services, thereby reducing the reliance on private car journeys.

Releasing the school transport scheme review without delay.

ensuring that the school transport scheme is reformed to serve the needs of students and their families adequately.

In their motion, Deputy Fitzpatrick alongside the Regional Group of TDs note that the Government needs to address these urgent matters and ensure the school transport scheme remains a dependable and eco-friendly means of transportation for all students.

outcomers say thank you to Coca Cola for €10k grant

Du NDALK -based LGBt+ organisation outcomers has been awarded €10,000 by the 2023

Coca-Cola thank You Fund.It is one of two Co Louth youth-orientated non-profit organisations to receive a grant share of €200,000.

“We are delighted to have received this funding from the Coca-Cola thank You Fund. We are thrilled we were successful in our funding application,” said outcomers Youth Worker, Lorna Costelloe.

“We applied in July; this is the first time Outcomers has received Coca Cola thank You funding.

“We are planning to use it for a unique Pride event which is being planned by 20 young LGBt+ from around the North East.”

Lorna added: “the Pride event will be held on Inis oirr next May. We are really looking forward to it.”

the Coca-Cola thank You Fund, which is celebrating its 13th year, doubled the value of the fund this year.the aim of the fund is to support

local groups to empower young people through learning, inclusion, and sustainable development.

Overall, 28 non-profit organisations from across the island of Ireland have each received a grant share from this year’s

Coca-Cola thank You Fund.

outcomers is a social and befriending support group based on Roden Place for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBt) people.the organisation works to

enhance the life of the LGBt+ community in the North East and the border counties. A second Louth-based organisation called Footsteps Project Connect FRC will also receive a grant of at least €5,000.

the Footsteps Programme is designed to help young people build and develop life skills that foster good relations, build confidence and resilience, and enhance their employability skills.Young participants

engage in a range of programmes that are individualised, bespoke, and meet their developmental and educational needs. operating in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and supporting partners YouthAction Northern Ireland, the Fund invests in community groups that are orientated towards young people, with this year’s theme centred around empowering young people through learning, inclusion, and sustainable development.this year the Coca-Cola Company and its partner Coca-Cola hBC Ireland and Northern Ireland joined forces to double the amount of funding on offer in 2023, making €200,000 in grants available. the significant increase in funding means that the CocaCola thank You Fund can support even more local organisations across the island of Ireland that work tirelessly to champion and empower young people to take an active role in shaping, creating, and maintaining sustainable communities.

D RAGON ’S D EN SUCCESS FOR S T LOUIS D UNDALK TY STUDENTS

Sarah Edmonds, Irish Youth Foundation joined Cormac Gartlan, Strategic Procurement Manager for The Coca-Cola Company, and Lorna Costelloe and Ailish Carroll from Outcomers Dundalk.

Seán Kenny LIPF receiving the ‘Val Wynne Perpetual Shield’ from photographic judge Richard Hatch AIPF at the recent presentation of this prestigious award at the Cuchulainn Camera Club

S T PATRICK’S L ADIES —St. Patrick’s ladies senior gaa would like to thank Finbarr Dillon, Oriel Body Repairs for his sponsorship to the club who will be playing in the Senior County Final next week .

St Louis Dundalk Transition Year students, Aoibhin Finnegan, Michaela Georgieva, Miryam Elgak, Treasa Cowan and Amber McCardle took part in the DKIT Entrepreneurship Programme on September 22nd and won with their BubbleBoost company pitch. They created a luxury pro biotic boba brand and presented it in front of the judges. Their pitch contained marketing plans, the engineering of a cup, a financial spreadsheet and much more, helping them to take the prize against The De La Salle Dundalk and Our Lady’s College Greenhills Drogheda.

All judges were very impressed with the efforts of the young people. Well done to all concerned.

Coláiste Chú Chulainn Girls Picking up university Credits in StEM while still in 4th Year of school

LOCAL school col-

áiste Chú Chulainn students have started a Maynooth University course in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) while still in 4th (Transition) year.The 16 girls have been selected to work with their Science and Physics teacher Ms Aisling White and Maynooth University in the exciting project. Ms White said:

“All of our students have great access to the sciences. But I am particularly proud that our girls have been recognised for their ability and have been selected to follow this university course. They will earn 5 credits at level 6, which is university standard. They will learn advanced computer science skills, coding, design thinking and generic STEM skills.As well as the 5 university

credits, our girls will also get 50 additional CAO points to enter STEM courses in a number of universities. This is a massive boost to the girls and to the future economy.

Student Josephine Fagbemi, who is undertaking the course said:

“We are having a great time on our university course. Myself and all the other girls are confident that equality in the world of STEM is coming, and we want to part of that. Ms White is one of our many role models, along with Ms McGahon, Ms McLaughlin, Ms Boyle, Ms Dunford and all our mothers and fam-

ilies. “Last week we travelled to Microsoft Dream Space in Belfast. We met women who are leaders in the STEM world. We heard how the glass ceiling is shattered!“During the session, we worked with large datasets, engaged in computational thinking exercises, and engaged with mentors from STEM industries across Ireland. We also used BBC Micro:bit (programmable circuit boards) to create climate-aware detection devices, such as temperature sensors and energy saving light switches.

“Of course, we got an as-

Dundalk Musical Society prepare to get ‘All Shook up’

signment and have a lot to do for our next university day in November.Deputy Principal Ms O’Neill commented:

“Our girls refuse to accept that there any restrictions on their potential in education, society and work. Their families and schools instil this in them. This project is a firm statement of equality and our expression of confidence in the future. The fact that 15 and 16 year old girls are taking university level courses while still in secondary school is a clear statement that our girls are reaching and exceeding their potential.”

DuNDALK Musical Society is proud to present for the first time in Dundalk the eagerly awaited ‘All Shook up’.

the show will run from Wednesday 18th to Sunday 22nd of october at 7:30pm nightly. Cast and crew have been working extremely hard to get this show together, under the direction of our production team Laura Kerr (director), Clare Donnelly (choreographer), Ronan Dennedy (musical director), Karyn Mc Cooey (chorus mistress) and Niall Mc Cooey (stage manager). It’s 1955, and a young guitar player who transforms everything and everyone he meets rides into a small town in a square little state. With songs like “heartbreak hotel,” “hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” this

musical fantasy loosely based on Shakespeare’s twelfth Night will have you jumping out of your “Blue Suede Shoes” What’s not to adore about a musical that has Elvis Presley’s music?

the very best of luck to our male and female chorus and our leading cast which include: Chad: Aaron Mathews; Natalie: Chloe Copas; Dennis: Max Valentine; Miss Sandra: Fiona Mullen; Jim haller: Brian halpin; Sylvia: Medbh Burns; Lorraine: hannah Mullen; Dean: Cian Kennedy; Mayor Matilda: Patricia Savage; Sheriff Earl: tim Ahern. You don’t want to miss this stellar of a show. Get your tickets now. tickets can be bought online at www.antain.ie, in person at the box office at An Táin Arts Centre or by phone on 0429332332.

Students programming climate- aware devices as part of their university course.

Patricia Savage will play the part of Mayor Matilda in All Shook Up. Students programming climate- aware devices as part of their university course.

Louth

house prices rise 1% in three months

thE price of the average second-hand three-bed semi in County Louth has increased to €265,000, up 1% from €262,500 in the last three months, according to a national survey by Real Estate Alliance.

Across the county, the average time taken to sell has decreased by one week to an average of four, the Q3 REA Average house Price Index shows.

the survey shows that across the county, 73% of purchasers were first-time buyers, and 45% of purchasers were from outside of the county.

A total of 55% of sales in the county this quarter were attributed to landlords leaving the market.

“Buyers are predominantly from North Dublin looking for more affordable options within commuting distance of the city and close to main line rail and bus services,” said Darina Collins of REA o’Brien Collins, Drogheda.

the average price in Dundalk was unchanged this quarter at €245,000, with time taken to sell remaining at an average of three weeks.

“We are seeing an understocked market,” said Michael Gunne of REA Gunne Property, Dundalk.

Taize Music in candlelight

ALL are welcome to a relaxing time of Peace and Silent Prayer in Candlelight, with the music of tAIZE. FRIDAY 6th oCtoBER 8-9pm (followed by tea/coffee). “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk A91 W0C 9.

Ardee & district Cancer Support

CoNCERt in Ardee Parish Centre, thursday 26th october 2023. Music by Gerry Guthrie. Special guests olivia Douglas and Joe McShane. Admission €25. tickets available at Ardee Parish Centre 041 6856721 or at the door on the night. Doors open at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm.

Adult dancing at The Lisdoo Arms

ADuLt Dancing at the Lisdoo Arms dancing with live music from 8.30-11pm thursdays, this thursday 5th october Kenny Paul, thursday 12th Magic Moments, thursday 19th Liam & Maria Mannering and thursday 26th Michael Collins all proceeds to Fr Brian Byrne – Cameroon School.

Late Night Café

“thE next meeting of the Late Night Cafe, Dundalk, takes place next thursday, october 5th, in An tain Arts Centre, Crowe Street Dundalk, from 7pm-11pm. All are welcome to attend.”

Sub Aqua Club AGM

DuNDALK Sub Aqua Search and Rescue unit held their AGM at their clubhouse on Wed 20th Sept. A large attendance of members were present & many issues were discussed on moving forward. Among the issues were the SAR operations carried this year. this included searches in Dundalk, Dublin, & Fermanagh.

A new incoming committee was elected as follows. Chairperson: Louise O Rourke; Secretary: Carol Callan; Diving Officer: Finbarr Dillon; Training Officer: April Mc Crave; Treasurer: Laurence Lord; Maintenance: Johnny Molloy; Safety Officer: Eddie Finegan; PRO: Margaret Mc Carthy.

dundalk Grammar School

DuNDALK Grammar School staff are planning to brave the elements on the night of Friday, october 6 by taking part in a ‘Staff Sleep out for the Simon Community’.

DGS would value your support. to donate, please go to the school website, under the Easy Payments Link and click Dundalk Simon Community Fundraiser.

Family Notices

novena to the sacred heart

Kelly

terry and amy in loving memory of terry and amy Kelly, late of 34 Fatima Drive, Dundalk, who died 20th september, 2013 and 21st october, 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 the sacred heart

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

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

novena to the sacred heart

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

Council and the hSE launch ‘We’re Breastfeeding Friendly Louth’

Louth County Council, in conjunction with the hSE, launched the ‘We’re Breastfeeding Friendly Louth’ campaign yesterday (tuesday 3rd).

the launch of the campaign comes during National Breastfeeding Week (1st-7th october) and is supported by healthy Ireland.

the campaign aims to help improve the health and wellbeing of breastfeeding mothers, babies, and their families through the development and promotion of breastfeeding friendly businesses, organisations and communities in County Louth.

Generally, mothers who breastfeed their babies, when out and about, do so with ease. But there are a number of factors which can ensure mothers feel comfortable when breastfeeding in shops, restaurants and other public places, including a welcoming, helpful attitude from staff; and other patrons knowing and accepting that babies may

be breastfed there. healthy Louth will adopt a ‘test and learn’ approach and will kick start the campaign with a pilot in Dunleer. healthy Louth would like to invite the business, community and voluntary sector based in Dunleer to sign up and lead the way as the first ‘Breastfeeding Friendly’ town in Louth. If you wish to get involved, contact Paula Keenan by e-mailing healthylouth@louthcoco. ie.

As part of the campaign, a pack which includes a ‘We’re Breast-

feeding Friendly Louth’ booklet, an A5 window sticker and an A3 poster will be distributed to businesses and organisations on request.

A GIS map will also be developed to map Breastfeeding Friendly Locations so families can find breastfeeding friendly environments in Louth.

the ‘We’re Breastfeeding Friendly Louth’ campaign will roll out countywide across all Louth County Council premises over the coming months.

Cllr Paula Butterly, Cathaoirleach, Louth

ATTEnTion For b e r. CerTIFICATIOn of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact robert Mulholland, ber assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

ADVErTiSE your houSE—Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

ATTE n T ion lA n D lor DS We supply furniture & beds for any rental properties you have. beds from €180, bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www. bedstore.ie, Coes rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

SEll iT Through A ClASSiFiED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

ChimnEy & SToVE ClEAning Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094. ChimnEy ClEAnEr The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact Cathal 087-2259799.

ADVErTiSE your SErViCE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

wE CAn DiSTribuTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

winDow ClEAning Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices. ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>.

C A r PE n T ry & Join E ry—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. no job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.

mobilE homE TrAnSPorT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact eugene 086-607-1702.

CArPET & oVEn ClEAning Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning. ie.

r oo F ing rEPA ir S & S To VES Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

gArDEn & houSE mAinTEnAnCE—

Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact brian 086-109-7358. ProPErT y mAinTEnAnCE—repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. references available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758.

Fi F i’S AlTE r AT ion S 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.

S E mi-r ET ir ED PA in TE r AVA ilA bl E Internal & external. 30 Years experience, also power washing services, etc, Tel Dermot 087 2993660.

All P ro PE rT y m A in TE n A n CE services carried out. roof repairs, Plumbing, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor tiling. All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Gerry your local man 087 6461556 or 042 9327241 after 6pm.

C A r PE n T ry—repair, maintenance. Woodwork, attic space, fencing, feature walls, floors, kitchen and wardrobe repairs, shops and office suspended ceilings, metal partitions, drylining Tel enda 085 1481212.

FA i T h & S P iri T uA l h EA ling available for skin conditions, asthma, chest problems, sinuses and general wellbeing. Further information Call Faith on 087 7188450.

Chri ST m AS Cr AFT FA ir 3rd December Fairways Hotel, Dundalk To book a table send an email to xmasfairs123@ gmail.com.

County Council, said: “I am really pleased to be launching the ‘We’re Breastfeeding Friendly Louth’ campaign, and particularly during National Breastfeeding Week. this campaign is a collaborative effort with private, community and statutory organisations actively showing their support for breastfeeding families, helping to make them feel welcome and supported”.

“Creating an environment that is welcoming to mothers who breastfeed is a really positive initiative and I want to encourage businesses, organisations and communities to sign up and to make ‘We’re Breastfeeding Friendly Louth’ a success”.

For more info visit: https://www.louthcoco. ie/en/services/communities/programmes/ healthy-louth/we-rebreastfeeding-friendlylouth/ or contact the healthy Louth Coordinator, email: healthylouth@ louthcoco.ie

houSE & APArTmEnT ClEAning Service. Specializing in re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www. everkleenservices.ie>.

TilEr AVAilAblE—experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile workmarble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

grimlEy’S Dublin ST. DunDAlK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. DunDAlK gArDEn SErViCES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. rubbish removals/ Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact ben 085-840-7707. ForTunE TEllEr Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229. b uil D ing S E r V i CES extensions, renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. bathroom refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of roof repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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.

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

builDEr & homE mAinTAinEnCE— building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. no job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

Pow E r wAS hing of driveways/paving/ walls/patios. no job too big or small. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 860 4048.

DDS PA in T ing & Decorating Services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel

David 085 7308777.

w ill’S gA r DE n S E r V i CES Lawn cutting, edges, hedges, strimming, rubbish & recycle removal, garage/house/yard clearances. Call Will on 085 860 4048.

mA n wi T h A VA n—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 0894016728.

PA in T ing & D ECor AT ing—Interior & exterior, Spray Painting & Hand Painted Kitchens, etc. All work carried out by professional Trades Men. Call brian 087 7558506.

g r ASS - C u TT ing in and around the Dundalk area. experienced and reliable. Contact Michael on 0871477067.

mA n in A VA n—House moves, furniture delivery/removal, yard/garage clearances, recycling & rubbish removal. Call Will on 085 860 4048 for a competitive quote.

gET F i T 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. D rum l ESS on S in C lu D ing bo D hr A n For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228. l in E -DA n C ing continues Tuesdays at 7pm in Dowdallshill GAA Hall, newry rd. Also Seatown boys Club every Wednesday at 10am, for enquiries Phone 087 2618773.

S E wing C l ASSES on-going at northlink retail park, Monday to Friday, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations. com.

TA

Louth County Council respond to impact of Storm Agnes

Louth County Council launched a dedicated response to the impact of Storm Agnes, the first named storm of the Autumn which tracked across the country on Wednesday, 27th September 2023.

A meeting of the council’s Severe Weather Assessment team (SWAt) was convened on tuesday 26th September to ensure all sections of the local authority were prepared for potential storm impacts.

Louth County Council continued to monitor weather warnings, attending virtual Met Éireann briefings, in the hours before the storm made landfall.

A status ‘Yellow’ wind warning was issued for Louth, and a series of public safety messages were issued via @louthcoco social media, warning of the potential risks of high winds.

Louth County Council retain hundreds of sandbags prefilled in six depots across Louth, which are ready to be deployed at any time in

Last week’s storm caused some trees around the county to fall.

known flooded areas.

Ahead of Storm Agnes, with a predicted low probability for flooding there were up to 100 bags left for use by owners of flood prone properties, in a number of areas including Blackrock, the Quays, and Ship Street, Drogheda.

The flood barriers in Blackrock were erected in advance of coastal winds and any associated surge coupled with the high astronomical tide (hAt).

out of hours teams were deployed as storm conditions continued into Wednesday evening, and tress were reported down across the greater Drogheda area, and mid Louth, including Ballymakenny Road, Monasterboice, College Rise, Wheaton hall, Newtown Blues, termonfeckin Road, and also in Collon, in the vicinity of the Pitch & Putt course and along the Kells Road. In Dundalk, overnight high winds led to

a tree down within the grounds of Ice house hill park, and another along the R173. outdoor crews responded to incidents across the county, cutting and removing fallen trees to make roads passable and footpaths safe.

Louth County Council are warning of very high tides forecast for Saturday 30th September in Drogheda, with the potential for flooding in the Wellington Quay area around 11.30pm.

Fitzpatrick calls for urgent intervention over Garda challenges

DEPutY Fitzpatrick; alongside his colleagues in the Regional Group of tDs; have today published a motion expressing severe concerns regarding the ongoing challenges faced by An Garda Síochána. the motion calls for an immediate review of the current Garda Síochána force with the engagement of all stakeholders, to be chaired by An taoiseach and make recommendations within 12 weeks.

According to Deputy Fitzpatrick, the Regional Group have sought this urgent intervention because An Garda Siochána’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the community are vital in creating a safe and secure environment for all and deterring criminal activities.

“this review needs to immediately address declining morale within the force and the issues around retention, the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, recruitment, transfers, rostering, entry-level pay and the need to improve work practices”.

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick noted

that members of the Garda Representative Association overwhelmingly voted no confidence in the force’s most senior officer, the Garda Commissioner. Another concern himself and the Regional Group of tDs have is the

chronic shortage of resources, technology, confidence in leadership and personnel issues within An Garda Síochána. “this shortage directly impacts the force’s ability to carry out its role”, says Deputy Fitzpatrick.

Deputy Fitzpatrick, with the backing of the Regional Group, states that “We must address the increasing assaults on Gardaí while on duty. We should get tougher on such crimes and create new legislation to act as a deterrent with mandatory custodial sentences for the criminal action of purposefully causing injury to a Garda”.

In the motion, Deputy Fitzpatrick and the Regional Group tDs note that the role of community policing in building solid relationships, fostering cooperation, and proactively addressing local concerns. “We must ensure a baseline per capita Garda figure in each county to ensure that certain areas in the State are not under-policed”, says Deputy Fitzpatrick.

Peter Fitzgerald, TD.