05-04-2023

North East Stunner!

Declan on top of the world after World Masters victory

By Paul Byrne

Declan Toal returned home to a hero’s welcome last week following his brilliant 10K victory in the World Masters championships in Poland. The 51-year old Priorland Gardens man was competing in the Over 50’s 10K race and held off a strong challenge from Mexican athlete luciano Trujillo to finish four seconds clear in a time of 33:02.

Declan’s victory on the world stage is all the more remarkable given the fact he only returned to the sport seven years ago having giving up running at 23 due to illness. Declan, a son of clan na Gael legend, leslie Toal, returned to the running track in his mid forties when his children joined St Gerard’s ac and he was asked to help out in a coaching role. From there he joined the north east Runners and that competitive spirit that burned so brightly in his youth returned with a vengeance as Declan quickly re-established himself as one of the most talented runners in the country. Continued on Page 2

crowned 10K World champion declan toal

welcomed home by his family at dublin airport.

Declan on top of the world after 10K Masters victory

Continued

From Page 1

According to Declan his journey to becoming a World Champion was helped massively

by what he learned during his two previous international championships.

“Having returned to running a few years

back I began to take it seriously again and I competed in my first Masters championships at the Europeans in Venice in 2019. I finished fourth, in a race that was won by my fellow North East Runner Maurice McMahon, and although I was disappointed with that I learned a hell of a lot that day. Last year I competed in the European Road Championships and finished third in Rome which gave me a lot of confidence. Coming into the Worlds this year I knew going through the times of my competitors that I was in with a medal chance and I went there aiming for gold,” explained Declan.

“When the race started the Mexican guy went off really fast and I let him go as I knew

he was going too fast. I stayed patient and caught him at about 8k where I sat on his shoulder until the final kilometer. I kicked for home and knew straight away he hadn’t much left. I kicked again just to make sure and it was a magical feeling being able to enjoy the final hundred metres knowing I had it won.

“It was a really special feeling to get back to Ireland and have my family all there waiting for me. My wife Fiona and our kids Conor, Amy and Hannah were all there to welcome me as well as all my sisters and my Mam and Dad. And then when we got back to Dundalk my neighbours and friends were all there to welcome me home which was really nice.

“Running has always been a passion of mine and I was pretty decent as a teenager winning an All Ireland Cross Country Novice Cham-

pionship at 19. I gave it all up at 23 though as I was getting sick after races and I was doing shift work so something had to give. I’m really delighted that I made the decision to get back on the track and I really have to thank everybody at the North East Runners for helping and inspiring me. They are a great group and it’s a pleasure running with them. I also have to thank the great Feidhlim Kelly who is a Dublin coach that I have been working with over the last couple of years and he has really helped me get to the stage where I can call myself a world champion,” stated Declan.

“I grew up watching my Dad play for the Clans and Louth and my sister Denise was a brilliant runner, much better than me, so you could say the love of sport runs in the family,” laughs Declan. Declan leaves rival Luciano

New home for Men’s Sheds

By Tamara O’Connell

THE Chairperson of Men’s Shed Dundalk has said members of the group are “delighted” with their new home.

Men’s Shed Dundalk Chairperson Peter O’Neill told the Dundalk Leader that the group, which comprises around 60 members, moved into a new premises on Monday, April 3.

“We were based over in Seatown and had been based there for around 11

years so it’s a big change,” said Peter.

“We moved last Friday and are now in a new temporary space, the Youth Club Centre next to St Patrick’s Cathedral.

“We are keeping busy even though we don’t have a workshop any more. The members play cards, and play pool and there is a lovely little garden out the back.”

Peter added: “It’s a nice place to sit when there is a bit of sun. We will only be

here on a temporary basis as we have a site in Muirhevnamor.

“Louth County Council are helping us and the plan is that we will put a portacabin on the site and that will be our permanent home.

“We thought we might lose a lot of members between the pandemic and the move but around 90 per cent of our members have stayed with us.”

He concluded: “We are also busy with a new project relating to Uganda. A man

we know went to Uganda and brought back some art work from there.

“They are oil paintings on canvas and the men here are going to frame them and they will be exhibited in An Tain Arts Centre here in the town.

“The paintings will be for sale and the money raised from the project will be donated to a charity in Uganda which has plans to build a school over there.”

Trujillo in his wake in the home straight.

Declan Toal stands on top of the podium after becoming a World Masters 10K champion at the ripe old age of 51.

Citizen’s Information Centre give advice to evicted tenants

By Tamara O’Connell

THE Citizen’s Information Centre at the Long Walk in Dundalk is encouraging tenants in Co Louth who have been served with a Notice of Termination by their landlord to seek information and advice.

The eviction ban that was in place from October 30, 2022 ended on March 31, 2023. As a result, many tenants in rental accommodation are now being served with Notices of Termination by their landlords.

According to the Citizen’s Information Centre, on March 21, 2023, the Government announced measures to help people whose tenancies will end when the winter eviction ban ends.

The measures are aimed at tenants who are being evicted because their private landlord is selling their rental property.

Some of these measures are already available, some will begin when the eviction ban ends and others will

need legislation to bring them into effect. There are measures for both social housing tenants renting privately and private tenants.

SOCIAL HOUSINg

TENANTS rENTINg

FrOM PrIvATE LANDLOrDS

If you are a social housing tenant and your private landlord wants to sell the home you are renting, the local authority can buy the home and you can continue to rent it from the local authority instead. This is known as the Tenant in Situ Scheme. It is aimed at people who are getting the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) or are part of the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) and whose landlords are leaving the rental market. You should contact your local authority for more

information about this scheme.

PrIvATE TENANTS WHO WANT TO bUY THEIr rENTED HOME

If you are renting and your landlord wants to sell your rental home, your landlord will have to offer to sell it to you first. This is known as First Right of Refusal. You will be able to use the First Home Scheme and the Local Authority Home Loan to help with the cost of buying the home. These schemes are being adapted so people in this situation can access them. The First Right of Refusal measure is not available yet.

PrIvATE TENANTS AT rISk OF HOMELESSNESS

If you can’t afford to buy your rental home, or you don’t want to buy it, the Housing Agency can buy the home and rent it to you. You can access this scheme if you are a private tenant who has received a notice of termination and you are at risk of homelessness because your landlord is selling. This is a tempo-

rary scheme known as the Cost Rental Tenant in Situ Scheme. The Housing Agency will be your landlord and you will pay the same rent as you paid your previous landlord. This scheme will be available from 1 April 2023. You should contact your local authority about the scheme. They will assess what supports you qualify for and give your details to the Housing Agency, if this scheme is suitable for you. It is intended that the scheme will transition to a cost rental model in the future, where rents would be lower than market rents. If you are going to be evicted when the eviction ban ends, you can contact organisations such as Threshold or Focus Ireland for advice. They can check if your Notice of Termination is valid and help you with the next steps. For more information visit www.citizensinformation.ie; www.threshold.ie; and www.rtb.ie.

MATTHEWS Auctioneers on the 15th & 16th of April conduct the clearance auction for the property of Ann Gormley, Granard, at their auction rooms in Kells.

A well-known Huntswoman, hunting five days a week in her prime, Mrs. Gormley, originally from Dundalk, ran a successful jewellery and antiques shop in Granard, Longford for over fifty

years. Having recently retired at the age of ninety, she has instructed Matthews Auctioneers of Kells to clear, by public auction, the entire contents of her shop and her private collection.

Pieces range in age from 1760 to 2010 and auction estimates run from e10 to e10,000. Collecting since she was a child, Mrs. Gormley’s collection is a remarka-

ble gathering of objects, reflecting her taste and interests over a lifetime.

There are over 1,600 lots in the auction, all of which have been removed to the Kells auction premises for convenience of sale. The auction will be conducted over two days.

Day 1, Saturday 15th

April: Lots 1 - 749 Jewellery & Silver. Day 2, Sunday 16th April:

retired Dundalk born jeweller to auction off remarkable collection Cross Cooley Challenge

THE 11th Annual Cross Cooley Challenge takes place this year on Saturday the 13th of May. The walk will raise much needed funding for our two local worthy causes North Louth Hospice and the Marie goretti Foundation at Lordship. Sponsorship cards will be available shortly from the usual sources.

Again thank you for your support in the past and looking forward to seeing you on the mountains with us again this year. Please share this message with your friends and family as all are welcome to take part and we love to see new faces.

Lots 750 - 1,683 Antiques & Collectables.

The Auction Room will be open for public viewing: Thursday 13th April - 11am - 5pm; Friday 14th April - 11am - 5pm; Saturday 15th April - 11am - 2pm. Auction commences 2:30pm sharp each day. Matthews Auctioneers, 7 Market Street, Kells, Co. Meath. A82 W4A6.

James gives acting royalty a quick tour in Greenore!

By Tamara O’Connell

LOCAL man James Larkin has described the Hollywood actor Michael Fassbender as a “gentleman” after he had a chance meeting with him.

The greenore man told the Dundalk Leader that Fassbender was in the area last week while

filming a new Irish movie.

“He was filming in Greenore for a new film he’s doing. It’s an Irish language production about a hip hop rap band based in belfast,” he said.

James works as a sector manager with the Irish Coastguard and was pleasantly surprised when Michael

popped into the station to say hello.

“He came in to have a look around the station so I gave him a quick tour. He was very nice in fairness I have to say,” said James.

“I asked for a photo and he was happy to oblige. Michael grew up in kerry and he said he was familiar with the Irish Coastguard.

Fitzpatrick outlines reasons for voting against the government

FOUR of the five TD’s in Louth voted against the government in last week’s motion from Sinn Fein calling for the eviction ban, which expired last Friday (on a phased basis) to be extended until January 2024.

Deputies Imelda Munster and Ruairí O’Murchú from Sinn Fein, Ged Nash from Labour and Independent TD Peter Fitzpatrick voted for the Sinn Fein motion while only Fergus O’Dowd from Fine Gael voted against it.

Speaking in the Dáil former Fine Gael TD outlined his reasons for voting against the government.

“I welcome the opportunity to speak on this very important issue. I will support the amendment Bill today to defer the termination dates of certain tenancies to 31 January 2024, in order to mitigate the risk of homelessness.

“I wish to start off with some figures. There was a 47% increase in the number of notices to quit in the private rental sector between quarter 1 and quarter 2 of 2022. Some 7,539 eviction notices were issued from January to September 2022. Last Friday, there was no emergency accommodation in Louth - no hotel rooms, no bed and breakfast accommodation, nothing. A total of 172 people presented as homeless to Louth County Council last month, even

before the eviction ban is due to be lifted. Last Friday, five properties were listed on daft.ie to rent in Louth. At a minimum, 96 families in Louth face eviction in four days’ time.

“These figures are not just figures. They are families, children, people from all walks of life.

“Shelter is a fundamental right. In the last week, the Government has rhymed off its achievements regarding housing and the supply of housing and quoted building numbers, but on the ground, rental accommodation is not accessible and homeless accommodation is at breaking point.

“One young man from my constituency contacted me because he is in fear of imminent eviction. He was given notice to va-

cate before the ban came in and is not eligible for the proposed tenant in situ scheme. After coming through foster care, he is currently in a HAP property and has access to two young siblings. This young man is an apprentice electrician earning €400 a week. Although he has been searching, he cannot locate an alternative property, unless he pays nearly €2,000. Louth County Council has no accommodation for him. His only alternative is to go to the Simon Community.

“The extension of the legislation is absolutely necessary due to the ongoing acute supply constraints in the residential rental sector and the increasing number of people presenting as homeless. In October, on Second Stage of this Bill, I said that while this emergency Bill provides shortterm assistance, the long-term answers to the housing and accommodation challenges remain. I said that the homelessness figures will continue to rise after the eviction ban has concluded unless the core problem of the lack of affordable homes is addressed. In fact, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage confirmed the “first refusal” option will not be in place by 1 April, as it requires legislative change. There is no clear timeline for its introduction,” stated Fitzpatrick.

“As far as I know the production crew for the movie used a boat owned by a local fisherman Dermot Marks for one of the scenes.”

He added: “They filmed something in Annagassan the day before. We are all looking forward to seeing a bit of Louth on the big screen.”

Locals enjoy success with Irish Transplant Soccer team

THE inaugural Irish Transplant Soccer team took part in an international soccer tournament in Solihull, Birmingham this past weekend.

Two local men helped the Irish team make it all the way to the final with coach John Brennan from Tallanstown and player Andrew Gallagher from Dundalk part of a twelve man team who traveled to the UK for the tournament.

The team consisted of eleven transplant recipients in total- three heart recipients, one double lung recipient, two liver recipients, four kidney recipients and one bonemarrow recipient. Each has an extraordinary story and each showcase the power of organ donation.

The players came together with a dream of representing their country in a sport they love and enjoy, and in doing so both honouring their donors, donor families and help raise awareness of organ donation.

Ages of the Irish team

ranged from early 20’s to early 50’s and with over 100 years combined of transplanted life.

After 4 gruelling well-fought matches, where the team won two matches and drew two matches, they qualified for the final.

Even though they did not win the final, they were overjoyed to take the Silver medal position. This was truly a brilliant example of organ donation working at its best.

Next on their agenda is taking part in the British Transplant Games, in Coventry in July, and then the team will be

challenging for the first ever World Cup Transplant Soccer in Italy next year.

Transplant Team Ireland is not all about medal success -it is a celebration of life through sport. Medals are great and hard earned, but the real success is each and every athlete who takes part in these Games. Whilst their stories are unique, each share a common bond of facing adversity.

Team Ireland showcases the success of organ donation and transplantation whilst offering inspiration to those who are newly transplanted or newly

diagnosed with organ failure.

The Team have one simple request to everyone -to please consider carrying an Organ Donor Card and Have the conversation –Say YES to Organ Donation. If you would like to join the team or become involved in any way, check out their social media Facebook page –Soccer Transplant Team Ireland or their website www.soccertransplantteamireland.ie

You can also email info@soccertransplantsteamireland.ieor transplantsportireland@ gmail.com

kevin Conroy Makes History In belfast!

LOCAL indoor bowler

Kevin Conroy who plays out of the Redeemer Bowling Club in Dundalk claimed his 3rd Irish National Singles title in Belfast a few weekends ago and in doing so became the 1st man to ever retain an Irish National title in consecutive years in any discipline of the sport (Singles, Pairs, Triples & Fours) since the competition began over 60 years ago! It is a remarkable achievement considering Kevin only returned to

bowling last April after nearly a four and a half year absence to devote time to his family and kids.

He beat fellow Irish team colleague Gary McNabb from Mid Tyrone in what was a very close & high standard singles final from start to finish which produced bowls of the highest quality from both players.

Coming off the back of two tournament wins in the days leading up to finals, Gary was the man

in form and the slight favourite going into this one. The final was over 15 ends and Gary got off to the perfect start racing into a 5-0 lead after 2 ends. Kevin finally settled into the match and got off the mark in end 4 picking up a single shot. They both exchanged shots in the forthcoming ends and with the scores level at 8-8 half way through, it was perfectly poised for a tense 2nd half of the match. The Dundalk man was proving too good for

Gary though and raced into an 11-8 lead. With the ends running out for the Mid Tyrone man he was unable to answer Kevin’s brilliance and claw back the deficit and Kevin eventually held on to win by 16 shots to 9 in one of the most top quality singles finals witnessed by spectators in years.

It is another trophy to add to his cabinet in a career which sees the Dundalk man as one of the most decorated players in the history of the game.

Kevin now also qualifies for the Champion Of Champions tournament in October, and while highly regarded as one of the best players to ever lift a bowl, you wouldn’t bet against him adding another win to his outstanding collection. He will surely be among one of the favourites to be in contention! Kevin also wanted to thank his club members, friends and family for their support and kind gestures before and after the final.

Irish Soccer team with Andrew (fifth from left) and John (sixth from left).

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

Michael Fassbender and James Larkin in Greenore.

Kevin Conroy claimed his third national title in Belfast.

National essay competition win for St Vincent’s student Holland brothers lifting more medals

LOUTH transition year student Saorla McDonagh Sharkey has been named winner of the Law Society of Ireland’s inaugural National Gráinne O’Neill Memorial Legal Essay Competition. And there was further local success with De La Salle student Michael Kerley picking up third place in the national competition.

The competition invited 1,500-word essays on the topic “The law and social media: striking a balance between freedom of expression and responsible usage”. Of the more than 80 essays submitted by students from 38 schools across 14 different counties, Saorla, of St Vincent’s Secondary School in Dundalk, Louth, won the top award.

Saorla’s essay won a €1,000 prize, trophy and shield for her school. The judges commended her essay’s “unique approach” as she “carefully put a spotlight on

social justice issues to enhance the critical debate of the competing rights”.

Richard Hammond SC, chairperson of the Law Society’s education committee, said: “This competition aims to encourage young people to engage with the law and consider their own legal rights, how the law impacts society. This competition aims to inspire

students’ learning and develop their creativity in an engaging way.

“We were delighted to welcome our student finalists, their parents, guardians, and teachers, to the home of the Law Society of Ireland at Blackhall Place to celebrate their achievements.”

Saorla added: “I am delighted to be awarded first prize at the Gráinne

O’Neill essay competition. It’s very special that I could attend the event with my parents. The competition opened my eyes further to the world of law and the balance of legal rights and it has definitely inspired me to consider a career in law.

“I would like to thank my teachers, especially Mr Thompson for encouraging me always in

English and Mr Henry my TY Coordinator. I am proud to represent my Secondary school St Vincent’s Dundalk.”

Hari Chandana Parimkayala, of Loreto Secondary School, Wexford, was awarded second place and Michael Kerley of De La Salle College, Dundalk, Co Louth, came third.

The Gráinne O’Neill Memorial Legal Essay Competition honours the life and legacy of the late Judge Gráinne O’Neill, who became the youngest judge in Ireland on her appointment to the District Court in 2014. She died in 2018 following a period of illness.

The competition was initiated by Mr Justice Keenan Johnson of the Circuit Court, in collaboration with the Midland Solicitors’ Bar Association, in 2019. This is the first year the competition invited entries from transition year students across the country.

THERE was success on the double for the Holland brothers at the AIPO National Powerlifting Championships in Limerick recently with both Scott and Jordan claiming gold in their respective categories.

Having built a shed at the bottom of their garden for training the Hollands may soon have to build another one to house all the gold medals the brothers have been winning on the national and international circuit.

Thirteen-year-old Scott and his older brother Jordan (22), from Cuchulainn’s Terrace just off the Castletown Road completed in the AIPO Nationals in the first weekend in March.

Jordan is now a well established and highly respected powerlifter on the national and international circuit and having burst on to the scene last year by winning gold in the U15 section of the 2022 nationals when just twelve years old Scott is quickly following in his big

brothers footsteps.

In Limerick, Scott won the under 16, (T1) 67.5kg category at just 13 years of age and set new national records in the bench press, deadlift and total.

First he squatted 105kgs, benched 67.5 kg ( a new national record) and then had a deadlift of 127 kg (also a new deadlift record) for a total of 300 kg. That total was recognised as yet another new record and the biggest ever in Ireland under 16.

The youngster has now qualified to lift for Ireland in the Europeans in May, which will be the second time he has represented his country.

Next up was Scott’s older brother Jordan and

Dundalk Gaels Easter Camp

he too was in sensational form as he squatted 245kgs, (a new national record) benched 135 and dead-lifted 220kgs for a 600kgs total.

Jordan was competing in the under 90 (Junior under 24) category for the first time and can now claim to have world and national records in four different weight classes. He also won the junior the lifter of the day to cap off an amazing day for the brothers.

Both Scott and Jordan would like to thank Ruairi McCann for all his help in preparing them for the nationals. Jordan is taking the next comp off to focus on Scott for the Euros. He will be back later on in the year to complete.

Saorla McDonagh Sharkey. Third Place Michael Kerley.

Scott and Jordan Holland.

Aoibheann Woods and Cliodhna Mulgrew.

Ava Pope.

Sam Gallagher.

Emily Mulligan, Rosa Malone and Freya O’Donoghue.

Oscar Martin and Eoin Kelly.

Zara Moran, Ellie Gartlan, Ellie McCartney and Kate McManus.

Measures needed to help autistic people transition from school to work

MAKING the transition from education to work for people with autism was raised a number of times last week in Leinster House by Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Sinn Féin TD raised the issue with Ministers Simon Harris, Roderic O’Gorman and Heather Humphreys, while also using his time on the Oireachtas committee on autism to focus on how technology could assist the transition.

In addition, Louthbased entrepreneur and educator, Lisa Marie Clinton, was one of the expert witnesses at last week’s autism committee. She is the strategy and business development director of adult transition and employment for CentralReach, an American company that offers a range of autism and intellectual disability care software and services. It serves over

130,000 professionals at home, in the community, at school and in work.

Autism Awareness Day was on Sunday April 2 and Deputy Ó Murchú was one of a number of TDs who attended the launch of World Autism Month hosted by the AsIAm group.

In Leinster House,

Deputy Ó Murchú told Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys that he welcomed the review of the disability awareness support scheme and asked her to also look at the workplace equipment adaptation grant as there had been ‘a very low uptake’.

He said: ‘We want

to bring about workplaces that are disability friendly. We do not want employers to have to pay the money up-front, especially smaller employers. We have to look at engaging the Intreo workforce to engage with employers to facilitate with disabilities in the workplace’.

He also asked Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris to look at how third level institutions and further education colleges can assist with the transition from education to work for those with autism and the need for colleges to be more accessible.

At the autism committee, Deputy Ó Murchú spoke about the benefits of people with autism gaining employment following education. He said: ‘We have all seen the benefits that accrue for the person, for society, for the wider

economy and obviously for their family as well. It is about being able to be all they can be.

‘Universal design also relates to wider society. It is about reasonable accommodations, whether with regard to courses, particularly in third level, or the wider piece of work that needs to be done on a framework to create workspaces that are autism-friendly, for want of a better scenario.

‘We are generally talking about adult services. There are difficulties as regards services for children, from assessments to therapies,

but after that they are almost non-existent and fall off a cliff edge. If we were talking to further education institutes or colleges, we would be talking about their difficulties around not having enough personal assistants to help people and the work conditions there, which are almost from a century ago.

‘Whether State services are fit for purpose or whether people would require training is another issue. We need this sort of service and outreach service built into the education and training boards, ETBs, the Intreo offices and

possibly even the local enterprise offices, rather than relying on projects out of universities’.

He said he had previously met Ms Clinton and was impressed with her work. He said: ‘At times, people need oneon-one interaction with facilitators, educators and therapists but these assistive technologies can be available to them all of the time. There is a definite win’.

Ms Clinton said: ‘We know that for children and adults with autism, there needs to be repetition. Repetition is key to learning a skill. We can provide 24-7 repetition

and if we provide these prompts all of the time, people learn these skills at a much faster pace.

‘When we measured it against the traditional methods we were able to increase the acquisition of skills and of that goal at a much faster pace. That meant that the organisation could reallocate resources and serve more individuals or increase the goals it had thought it might not have been able to work on because it had to provide a level of oneto-one. We could, therefore, extend learning to teach more skills’.

Gaelscoil Dhun Dealgan Rang 4 with Muinteoir Seamus on La Dearg - ‘Show Racism the Red Card Day’. All pupils and teachers were asked to wear red last Friday to show the school stands against racism in all forms.

Kids Easter Disco in Aid of Necret

ARE you looking for a fun and exciting way to celebrate Easter with your kids while also giving back to a great cause? Look no further than the Crowne Plaza Hotel’s Kids Easter Disco in aid of Necret, located in the Hamilton Suite of our Dundalk hotel.

This event promises to be a fun-filled after-

noon of dancing, games, and Easter-themed activities for children of all ages. A talented DJ will be spinning all the latest tunes and classic favourites, so your little ones can dance the day away with their friends. There will also be a range of Easter-themed activities and games to keep your kids entertained all day.

All proceeds from this event will go towards supporting Necret, a fantastic charity that helps families and children, The mission of NECRET is to improve the treatment and outcomes of people with cancer by supporting cutting edge treatment and care.

Admission for this event is just €5 per

child. So why not come along and join us for a day of dancing, fun, and giving back?

The event is due to take place on Sunday, 9 April at 3pm in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk. For more info visit Kids Easter Disco - In Aid of Necret, Crowne Plaza Dundalk, April 9 2023 | AllEvents.in

Deputy Ó Murchú with Lisa Marie Clinton at last week’s Oireachtas Committee on Autism.

Louth student wins SETU travel bursary

GERARD White, a student on the BSc in Horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin and a native of Whitestown, Greenore, Dundalk, Louth, has been announced as the joint winner of the 2023 Una McDermott Travel Bursary.

The bursary has allowed Gerard to travel to San Francisco, California, where he is currently completing the work placement component of his degree at the Cal Club Golf Course.

Gerard expressed his gratitude upon receiving the bursary, saying “It’s an honour for me to receive

the Una McDermott bursary fund. This funding will be a big help to me during work placement this semester, in which I’m doing a Turfgrass internship at the Cal Club Golf Course in San Francisco. It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to gain valuable experience and knowledge in Turfgrass at a Top 100 golf course”.

The Una McDermott Travel Bursary was established to provide financial assistance to students studying horticulture who wish to travel for work placement or research. The competitive bursary is awarded an-

nually to a small number of students who demonstrates exceptional promise and commitment to the field of horticulture.

Una McDermott, for whom the bursary is named, was a distinguished horticulturist who devoted her life to the study and cultivation of plants. She was a keen traveller and believed that exposure to different cultures and landscapes was essential to the development of a well-rounded horticulturist.

The bursary is administered by SETU Waterford where Una McDermott

worked for many years. It is funded by a generous donation from her estate, and is intended to continue her legacy of promoting horticultural education and international options for study.

Dr Cara Daly, Programme Director for the SETU BSc in Horticulture says “Gerard is an outstanding candidate for the bursary, with a strong application and a passion for horticulture and green keeping. His work placement at the Cal Club Golf Course will provide him with a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best turfgrass experts in the world.

We wish him all the best for his travels and look forward to hearing about his experiences upon his return”.

Green keeping is a crucial aspect of horticulture education, and involves the maintenance and care of grass surfaces, such as golf courses, sports fields, parks stadia, and race courses. Green keeping is an important skill to learn for horticulture students as it requires a deep understanding of soil health, plant nutrition, and pest management, among other topics. Through green keeping education, students can develop the necessary

knowledge and practical skills to manage and maintain healthy turf surfaces, which are essential for the aesthetics and functionality of various public and private spaces. There is currently a shortage of degreelevel trained greenkeepers throughout Ireland and the world.

For more information about horticulture courses in SETU Waterford and Kildalton College Kilkenny, and the SETU degree in the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin in Dublin see www.setu.ie/horticulture.

Singers enjoy the moo-sic at the Tipsy Cow

THE Tipsy Cow was the venue for the inaugural edition of the ‘Dundalk Singers Club’ with Christine Larkin and judging by the amount of people who turned up it looks like it will be the first of many nights in the bridge Street venue.

Christine is a well-known face in the local musical and theatre scene and she wanted to create a space where people could come in to a relaxed environment and casually sing a song of their choice in a town centre location. That idea be-

came a reality last Monday evening with the launch of the ‘Dundalk Singer’s Club’ and Christine was delighted with how the first night went.

“With these ventures you are always terrified that nobody will show up but thankfully we had a good crowd of people who came in and sang a song or two and I have to say it was a truly delightful few hours spent in the company of some really great people. Not only did some people from Dundalk show up but we also

had a group from Northern Ireland who arrived in and they were a brilliant addition to the evening. I have to give a special mention to rosemary Tumelty and Eileen McCreesh and also Enda Duffy who like rosemary Tumelty sang their own songs which were fantastic.

“We had people singing songs in Irish and another guy singing an old Irish traditional song and I sang an Edith Piaff song so there really is a very wide variety of songs sung over

the course of the evening.

“We have purposely made it an acapella evening with no instruments at all bar the singing voice. People in general love to sing and this singers club is a chance for people who love to belt out a song to come down and enjoy an evening of music and fun in the company of like minded people. The plan is to run it monthly and our next event will take place on Monday the 27th April. I also have to give a big shout out to Declan, Lisa and all their staff

for looking after us so well on the night. The Tipsy Cow is a wonderful pub and a great place to be on any night. We invite singers of all capabilities down to the Tipsy Cow on the 27th of April.

“Singing is good for the soul and I’m delighted that we now have a space for people to come in and sing their hearts out in a comfortable friendly environment,” stated Christine.

Christine Larkin.

Gerard White.

The Matthews sisters May and Kathleen Matthews and May’s friend Marie.

Noeleen and Philip Mangan at the Singers Club.

The launch of the Singers Club in The Tipsy Cow was enjoyed by all who attended.

Eileen Connolly with Mildred Boden in the background. Bernadette, Christine and Martina in the Tipsy Cow.

Family Notices

nOVena nOVena nOVena

novena to the sacred heart

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it).

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).

M.t.

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).

n.a.

novena to the sacred heart

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it).

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).

M.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 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail).

J.M.

novena to saint Martha

O St Martha I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith, I offer up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my difficulties thro the great favour thou didst enjoy when our saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have divine pity in regard to the favour I ask (mention favour). Intercode for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St Martha to overcome the dragon which thou didst cast at thy feet. One Our Father and three Hail Marys and a lighted candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made known with the intentions of spreading devotion to St Martha. This miraculous saint grants everything before the Tuesdays are ended. No matter how difficult. e d

Seven titles won by Dynamites Basketball Club

WHAT a great season it has been for Dynamites

Basketball Club Dundalk. Having entered the North East Basketball League after a long brake due to Covid Dynamites

U18 girls team returned to winning ways and won the League and Top Fours double for 2023 with Julie Mc Loughlin also picking up MVP award in the finals.

Their u16 girls and u14 girls also won the league and play for the double next weekend. A hattrick of League titles and a great year for girls basketball in Dundalk Dynamites u18 Girls: Dynamites International Coach Orla Brennan was delighted that all their efforts throughout the season paid off,

“What an amazing year for girls basketball in Dundalk and especially for this wonderful development club” Coach Brennan said .., To have the Irish Women’s International Manager Vera Pauw wishing the girls all the best in the finals was a wonderful surprise and her words motivated the girls to perform to their best.

Irish Legend Paula Gorham attended the finals which were played

P ro P erty/rentals s P ecial services

attention—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

to let—Secure Lock-up Workshop & Yard, previously a successful lawnmower/ garden equipment repair business, rear Go Filling Station, Newry Road, Dundalk Enquires Tel 087 2071796. advertise yoUr hoUse Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

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

n ormende e lectric cooker for sale. Four Ringed. Never Used. €350 O.N.O. Call 0862788551. kross s iberian Gents Bicycle (Red/ Black) for sale in spotless condition. Marathon Plus tyres. Price €490. Genuine reason for selling. Telephone 087-1248922.

e lectric bike for sale—No battery, €250 o.n.o. Tel 083 1161297. 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>.

hoUse & aPartment cleaning

fortUne teller—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel.

Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.

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

roof leaks master—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.

c ar P entry & Joinery—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.

m an i n a van—Furniture delivery & Removals. House, yard and garage clearances. Call Will on 085 8604048 For a competitive quote.

mobile home transPort—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact— Eugene 086-607-1702.

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

r oofing r e Pairs & s toves—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

garden & hoUse maintenance Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

ProPerty maintenance—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758.

Plastering s ervice available

Free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

c ar P et and U P holstery cleaning. Home and Office contract cleaning. Over 10 years’ experience. RTM Cleaning Services contact Robbie 087 3817618. dds Painting & Decorating Services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel David 085 7308777.

g ardening—Lawns cut, hedges cut, trees trimmed and topped. Telephone Tom 087 2296441.

r eflexology—Feeling stressed, tired, fed up and need an energy boost for the spring... try a reflexology treatment and reap the benefits. Contract Rosemarie 087 2058644.

s emi-retired man available for Painting (Internal & External). 30 Years experience, also power washing services, etc, Tel Dermot 087 2993660.

n on- sU rgical h U man hair replacement system. Undetectable for those wishing to boost confidence and regain that younger look. Phone Dundalk 083 064 5859.

Painting & d ecorating—Interior & Exterior, Spray Painting & Hand Painted Kitchens, etc. All work carried out by professional Trades Men. Call Brian 087 7558506.

Part- t ime babysitter available in the Dundalk area. Please phone 083 0959127.

e asy-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.

The U18 boys enjoyed an excellent season.

in Dromiskin and presented the teams with their league trophies and medals.

Not to be outdone Dynamites u18 Boys finished second in their league and capped off a great season by winning the Top Fours beating Dunshaughlin Rockets the league winners in the final .

This is the first year u14 and u12 boys competed in the leagues and with their u14 boys finishing second their u12 boys finished third loosing

out to Drogheda Wolves by only one point. Due to Covid Dynamites had not participated in the North East Basketball League last season which gave them time to develop their younger teams especially boys and entered four teams into the juvenile section

. MVP Sean Kearney was over the moon with his award and thanked everyone for giving him such a great opportunity to develop within a great club.

The successes of this year would not have been achieved if it was not for an amazing working Committee, team managers, assistant coaches and coaches.

If you would like to join Dynamites Basketball Club contact one of our committee or message us on Facebook Dynamites will also hold an easter Basketball Camp for three days starting on the 5th April see their Facebook page for more details.

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

tiler available—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile workmarble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote. sc t iling—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane 086 107 5080. grimley ’s dUblin st. dUndalk Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. 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.

f ifi’s a lterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

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

PoWer Washing Get ready for Spring/ Summer. Power washing of driveways/ paving/walls. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 8604048.

bUilder & home maintainence

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

Podiatry/c hiro P ody treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794.

Painter available—Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

g et fit the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm—10pm, no partner required. Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. f rench g rinds available for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340. drUm lessons inclUding bodhran—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

932 0888

The Dynamites U18 league winning team in celebratory mood.

First dives for Sub Aqua trainees

Easter assembly at Monastery NS Ardee

MONASTERY NS Ardee held a very special Easter Assembly for their boys and girls with lots of rewards and fun.

Principal Mr McGee welcomed everyone to the school Easter Assembly and especially our guest from the Simon Community in Dundalk, Yvonne Carr. She spoke to the boys and girls about the Simon Community’s work with the homeless and how they rely so much on the voluntary contributions of everyone to provide this service. Senior pupils Oisin Kelly and Aaron McKenny presented a cheque from Monastery NS to Simon which was raised from the proceeds of a Christmas Jumper / non-uniform day in December.

There was also a special presentation of Easter Eggs from the Parish of Ardee and Collon to the Monastery NS Altar Servers for all their work in serving mass for our community. Then followed a presentation by each class teacher of a Student of the Month Certificate for the month of March. Mr McCoy and Mrs Higgins also presented prizes for the

Internet Safety Poster Competition recently held in the school. Our Active Schools Committee gave assembly the latest the active schools’ news and Mr Garland and Mrs Marks presented Active School Council Badges. The our Green Schools’ Committee presented their latest news and plans for the school year and Ms McCabe and Ms MacNally presented

their Green Schools’ Committee badges. Finally the school hosted their Parents’ Association Easter Egg Raffle with over 50 prizes! There was great fun and excitement as Mr McAdam and parents Lisa O’Brien and Monika Tryczynski pulled out the winning tickets. It was a wonderful occasion and thoroughly enjoyed by the boys and girls.

Sub Aqua Club trainees enjoyed their first ever outdoor dive in Donegal last weekend.

LAST weekend 30 divers, of which nine were trainees, travelled to St. John’s Point in Donegal. For the nine new divers it was a very exciting time, who got to experience a real dive after six months of training in Aura swimming pool as well as

many lectures on scuba diving.

On Saturday they completed two ten metre dives and on Sunday they dived at St.John’s Point lighthouse.

Everybody in Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and rescue Unit would like to congratulate

them having completed their very first dive. Some of them may become Search & rescue diver’s in the future and will continue the service that has been in operation in this locality now for over 20yrs.

Easter fun At Monastery N.S Ardee

Sonia Flannigan, Jasmine Bishun, Caroline Bellew, Kiev’s Bradley and Tracy Rooney.

Anna Connor, Chris Cumiskey and Cormac Woods.

National Learning Network in Dundalk held a very successful coffee morning on Monday at their premises on the Ramparts Road with all money raised going towards Pieta house.

Living Well Programme

ARE you or is someone you know living with a long-term health condition?

If so, then you may be interested to find out more about the HSE funded Living Well Programme.

WHAT IS THE LIvINg WELL PrOgrAMME?

Living Well is a free, online 6–week group self-management programme for adults with longterm health conditions. A longterm health condition is one, which can be treated and managed but usually not cured. Examples include asthma, COPD, diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis, heart conditions, arthritis, Crohn’s Disease and many more.

The Living Well programme supports people to develop the skills and confidence to live well with their health condition. It may also be a support for those living with long-COVID.

es to improve health such as becoming more active, eating more healthily and stopping smoking. It may also include tasks such as taking medication(s) monitoring symptoms communicating with your healthcare professionals and coping with the emotional aspects of the condition.

WHAT DOES LIvINg WELL INvOLvE?

People taking part in the workshops may or may not have the same health condition(s); The workshops are delivered in a relaxed and friendly way.

WHO CAN JOIN?

Living Well is for adults aged 18 years and over. It is suitable for those living with one or more long-term health conditions caring for someone with a long-term health condition.

If you would like more information on the Living Well programme in your area, Contact Aine 041 6850676/087 1140371 or Joanne 087 4308735 / 041 6860710 or www.hse.ie/livingwell.