05-08-2021

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Nh Moninne make final push for new pitch Page 4

Give Finn space urges Antóin Page 6

Brendan’s on top of the world

Pete discusses musical journey Page 13

Thursday, 5th August, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 31 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Paul Byrne

Louth Village man Brendan Lawlor is officially the best in the world for golfers with a disability following back to back wins over the last two weekends on the EDGA tour.

The 23-year old recorded his second win on at a European Tour event at Celtic Manor two weeks ago beating Italian Tomasso Perrino by seven shots. And last weekend he made it back to back wins on the tour by claiming the ISPS Handa World Disability Invitational tournament which he hosted at the Massareene Golf Course in Galgorm, Antrim.

Brendan put in a flawless performance shooting two rounds of 67 for a total of -6 with Perrino once again forced into second spot a further six shots back. Lawlor, who has Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome, a disability characterised by a shorter stature and shorter limbs, turned professional less than two years ago and thanks to a lot of hard work and support from his family and management team he has now risen to the very top of his chosen sport.

Continued on Page 2

Brendan is now officially number one in the EDGA world golf rankings.

Almost 300 people attend walk in vaccine centre Almost 300 people attended the walk in vaccine centre in the Fairways last weekend bringing the total people vaccinated at the clinic to 53,444 as of Monday evening.

Over the bank holiday weekend the Fairways operated as a walk in vaccine centre on Sunday, between 1.15pm to 4.15pm and Monday,9.15am to 12.15pm and 1.15pm to 4.15pm. 26 walk in clinics opened nationwide with over 18000 people taking up the opportunity to receive their first dose.

The clinic was available for anybody over the age of sixteen and there was no need to register online before visiting.

Continued on Page 2

Brendan’s on top of the world Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Almost 300 attend walk in vaccine centre

From Page 01 However, people were required to supply a mobile phone number, eircode, email address and photo ID, which contained their date of birth.

Those attending received a first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. They will shortly receive a text telling them when and where they can receive their second dose. According to the HSE almost 300 locals availed of the option in Dundalk while 520 attended in DIFE in Drogheda.

Since opening as a vaccine clinic in April, 53,444 vaccines have been issued to date with 3,235 administered between 20th-30th April, 10,566 between May 3rd and 31st, 17,005 between June 1st and 30th and 21,974 during July.

Meanwhile, approximately 280,000 children aged 12-15 will become eligible for the Pfizer vaccine within the next two weeks following updated guidance from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee. The HSE is also working on a plan that would potentially see a booster jab being administered later in the year along with the annual flu jab. Initially it would target at-risk groups, including older people and those with an underlying health condition.

From page 01 The victory at Galgorm was made all the more special for Brendan given the fact his family were there to see him claim the victory which confirmed his status as the best in the world.

“It was just so special to have my family there to see me win the event. For some of them it was their first time seeing me play professionally and I even had my grandparents there cheering me on. My grandad Bill was the person who first got me

into the game when he set up a wee course in his back garden for me so he was especially proud to see how far I’ve come.

“It’s been a hell of a journey for me and the last couple of years in particular have been tough with Covid and everything but to finally reach world number one with my Dad on the bag and my family watching on made me really emotional.

When I turned professional I wanted to become number one and I wanted to inspire

people and put disability golf on the map. Now that I have reached number one I want to stay there and stay there for a long time like Tiger Woods did. This is my full time job now and I love it so much and hopefully there will be many more successes to come,” stated Brendan.

Brendan is managed by Modest! Golf Management which is part owned by former One Direction star Niall Horan who was in Galgorm to watch his

THE family of a Dundalk boy with Autism have reached the halfway point in their quest to raise €10,000 this month for a companion dog.

On Saturday morning Ronán and his family completed their 100km in July challenge with the six year old running the final 100 metres on the green outside the Fire Station with firemen and gardaí cheering him on as he crossed the finishing line with his dad Sean.

The fundraiser is being organised on GoFundMe.com by Marie Lawless, the mother of six-year-old Ronán Lawless-Clarke from the Avenue Road.

“Ronán was four-years-old when he was diagnosed with Autism. We knew he had extra needs, we just didn’t know what they were. When we got the diagnosis, we were able to plan for his future,” said Marie.

Ronán had an assistant in preschool and has been attending ASD classes in Bellurgan since November 2019.

“Earlier this year we applied to the charity My Canine Companion and were blessed to have been selected (randomly I add) to progress with

the application for a service dog to help Ronán gain safety awareness, his independence, and companionship,” states Marie on their GoFundMe page.

“In turn this would help our family unit reducing stresses and anxieties.

This charity receives no government funding so we would like to fundraise for them to try and cover the cost of what it takes to train/care for one service dog and it’s €10,000.”

Marie told the Dundalk Leader that over 1,600 people applied to have a service dog from My Canine Companion and only 60 lucky people were selected.

“We were thrilled to be selected.

The pups are allocated to families at ten weeks old. They live with the family for up to a year to bond and then they return to the training centre The Lawless-Clarke family with members of An Garda Siochana and for four months,” she said. the fire service.

According to Marie, the family will now take a well earned rest before continuing to fundraise in a week or two.

To make a donation please visit Fundraiser by Marie Lawless : Ronáns Canine Companion (gofundme.com)

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sure is for diamonds! I’m so proud of him and when they announce him as world number one this week, it’s going to be a proud moment.

“He’s been waiting his whole life to get there and here he is at a very young age, with this trophy in his hand again and hopefully the world number one title this week and nobody deserves it more than him,” stated Niall.

Ronán and family complete 100k challenge

Oxy-Arc Ltd

Coes Road Dundalk

friend claim victory. Speaking after the event Horan admitted he was emotional following the confirmation that Lawlor was the new world number one.

“I’m a bit emotional myself. It’s unbelievable, what he’s done the last couple of years, he’s just a superstar, this lad.

“He takes every opportunity by the scruff of the neck, every time the European Tour has had an EDGA event, he’s either won it or got close. Pres-

Ronán crosses finishing line with dad Sean, Logan the dog and friends.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

Naomh Moninne re-launch ‘Field hero’ fundraiser Dundalk hurling club Naomh Moninne have relaunched their ‘Field Heroes’ fundraiser as they look to realise their long-held ambition to own a pitch in Toberona.

The club are asking people to commit to as little as €5 a month for the next year to help get the project over the line. It is hoped that this final push will see the ground ready to open by next summer all going well.

The dedicated hurling club is the oldest and most successful in the County winning 22 championship titles since they formed in 1959. Unfortunately there has never been a clubhouse to store all those hard earned trophies or a pitch to call their own with the club relying on the generosity of many clubs around the area over the years to accommodate them when playing matches.

However, in 2009 as the club celebrated its 50th anniversary the wheels were set in motion for the club to finally have a ground to call their own when they announced that they had agreed a lease with Dundalk Town Council

Naomh Moninne new pitches site at Toberona. to develop land in Toberona into a playing pitch.

The club undertook a lot of work to get phase one of the project up and running and in 2019 their ambitious plans received a boost when they were awarded a sports capital grant worth €98,347. That allowed the club to move on to the next stage which involved laying two pitches as well as paying for drainage systems and fences. Now the club have asked the local community to get behind them as they give one last push to complete the project. When it’s finished it will be the very first dedicated hurling ground in the county and according to committee member John Murphy the club want it to be

an asset which will be opened up to the people of Faughart, Fatima and the wider community.

“Our Field Heroes fundraiser has been relaunched with members looking for new Heroes to sign up to €5 a month to help the development of our pitch at Toberona.

There has been great work done over the last few months and the next phase is about to begin. To help ensure that our pitch is completed we are calling on members to help raise funds to help pay for the important works that will be carried out over the next few months.

“When we originally launched this fundraiser a few years back we had over 200

people sign up to it which was a massive help to us. We are hoping the local community can get on board again and help us get this project over the line. We are very community oriented and we want to open the pitch up to all the kids in the area. We owe an awful lot to the likes of Roche Emmets, Dowdallshill, Dundalk Gaels, the Islanders, Clans, DkIT to name just a few who have helped us out over the years and accommodated us. We want to give back to them too and repay their kindness by letting them use our pitches whenever needed. We will have two pitches and we will be proud to say we will be the only club in the county to have our own

Jordan Holland’s return to competition worth the ‘weight’ Local weightlifter Jordan Holland returned to competitive action last weekend after eighteen long months out of action due to COVID restrictions and showed no signs of rust as he added another world record to his glittering resume.

The talented 20 year old burst on to the international weightlifting scene three years ago when he became the first teenager in 56 years to win both the senior and under 18 titles at the World Championships in Malta. Since then he has routinely been breaking world records in competition and last week at the AIPO Nationals in Limerick he broke his nineteenth world record when he squatted 240.5kg, benched 110kg and deadlifted 217.5kg for a total of 568kg.

Jordan from Cuchulainn’s Terrace just off the Castletown Road got into the sport when he was 14 when he was encouraged to try it out

by Barry Smyth from

Ollie Byrne with Jordan Holland. the Oak Gym in Dundalk. According to Jordan’s dad Kevin he took to the sport like a duck to water.

“I brought Jordan with me into the gym maybe six or seven years ago to do a wee bit of training with myself just to keep fit. Jordan was lifting weights and Barry Smyth from Oak Gym came over to me and told me that what he was lifting was not normal for a 14-year old and that he was very strong for his age. Barry took Jordan under his wing and trained him and from that he began

to enter competitions and do very well in them. Jordan absolutely loves the sport and he lives and breaths it. He doesn’t drink or smoke and is just obsessed with getting better and doing the very best he can when entering competitions,” explained Kevin.

Meanwhile Jordan was thrilled with his performances in Limerick after such a long time away from competitive action.

“I really enjoyed the competition and it was great to be back in a competitive environment after such a long

time. The preparation for this was tough due to the restrictions for everyone which meant I wasn’t able to train as normal with my coach Barry Smyth. Barry did an amazing job however helping me online through zoom calls and videos. I’m lucky enough to have a decent set up at home which meant I could get plenty of training in during lockdown when the gyms were closed,” explained Jordan.

“I’d like to thank Barry and Megapump who have been with me since I started this journey and also would like to thank Ollie Byrne for all his help in my home gym.

“Now that I’ve made my return to competition I’ve got the taste for it again and I have my eye on the worlds next year. I have big ambitions in the sport and ultimately I want to open my own gym so the plan is to keep on working hard and enjoying it,” he added.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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‘Give Finn space’ urges Antoin

Shocking new images have emerged of Finn, the dolphin who frequents Greenore, which show a large cut along its side.

The photographs were initially published on the Carlingford Lough and the Injuries received by Finn in Carlingford Lough. Cooley Peninsula Facebook Pic credit: Stephen Rooney page.

The distressing images sparked concern for the welfare of the much-loved local bottlenose dolphin.

The Facebook page has asked people to be careful around Finn and to keep a safe distance from him.

Sinn Fein Councillor Antoin Watters said a lot of

constituents have contacted him expressing their concern for Finn.

“I’ve made contact with the council and with a lot of different agencies including the Lough Agency and the Park & Wildlife Agency,” he said.

“I don’t like to see any

animal injured and it looks badly injured but I saw pictures of Finn over the weekend and it was jumping out of the water so he looks okay.

“It’s a wild animal and people should stay away from it. It is something definitely to be concerned

about.”

Cllr Watters added: “It’s a big attraction. Lots of people go to Greenore hoping to catch a glimpse of him.

“I’m no dolphin expert but I’d ask people not to get too close to him and to give him the space he needs because he is a wild animal.”

Need for more lifeguards and lifesaving equipment as sea and inland swimming grows in popularity—McGahon There is a need for more lifeguards and lifesaving equipment as sea and inland swimming grows in popularity, according to Fine Gael Louth Senator, John McGahon.

“During lockdown, many people developed a newfound love for swimming.

Whether it’s sea or inland swimming, so many of us have taken up this brilliant

form of exercise.

“But with the increased numbers of sea and inland swimmers, we need to ensure that everybody stays safe. Recently we saw too many tragic drownings over a short period of time, and unfortunately in Ireland, we have had an average of ten drownings per month over the last ten years.

“I would like to see a

commitment to installing more lifesaving equipment at the popular spots where people swim. We also need to see more lifeguards on duty, and for longer periods of the year, not just in the summer months, in the offpeak season too.

“Recently my Fine Gael colleague Minister Hildegarde Naughton TD launched an updated

Safety on the Water website https://www.gov.ie/en/ campaigns/777947-safetyon-the-water/.

“It is a one stop shop for water safety information in order to minimise accidents and to prevent the loss of life on Irish waters.

I encourage everyone who wants to enjoy our rivers, lakes and coastline this summer to check it out.

“The information on this useful website could form the basis of a strong public information campaign to educate people about the dangers of swimming.

“For example, the majority of drownings take place in inland locations and alcohol plays a huge role in people getting into trouble too. The Coast Guard and the RNLI are also very clear

that water based inflatable devices are not safe to use in open water. We need to get the message out to people to please leave them at home.

“We must do everything we can at Government and Local Authority level to ensure the tragic deaths of recent weeks can be avoided in the future”, concluded Senator McGahon.

Sen. John McGahon.

Lions Club presentations Grosvenor Services are hiring for the position of

‘Area Manager Midlands / North’ In business for 62 years, Grosvenor • Complete payroll returns and paperwork accurately and submit according to set Services ARE HIRING for an Area Manager deadlines Midlands North.

• Ensure that all client sites are staffed • 12 month contract initially correctly and within agreed contract • Operations and or facilities management terms and budgets experience preferred.

• Ensure that all sites have correct levels of • Must have a full driving licence. supplies and equipment in good working • Send CV to Marianne Lambert order • mlambert@grosvenorservices.com • Liaise with the Operations Manager on a Job description: daily basis We have an immediate 12 month vacancy Minimum Skills and for the position of Area Manager covering a Experience Required: region north of Athlone including the bor- • Fluency in English, both verbal and der counties. The successful candidate will written manage the relationship and interface with • Experience working in a supervisory customers at diverse sites in the area. This capacity in the cleaning industry role will have responsibility to ensure that • Proven ability in managing a diverse timesheets are completed and returned acremote workforce curately according to set deadlines so that • Excellent interpersonal skills staff are paid correctly. This role will manage • Strong problem solving skills with the staff performance, including involvement in ability to react swiftly and appropriately appraisal and disciplinary processes, when • Proven ability in customer service delivery necessary, and will have responsibility for the • Capable of working on own initiative and recruitment and introduction of new staff. unsupervised Duties and Responsibilities:

• Visit clients are on a regular basis at pre-agreed intervals and ensure audits completed on time • Act on customer queries and feedback appropriately and without delay • Ensure that operational and performance issues are dealt with effectively

• A strong knowledge of computer based systems (Microsoft Word, Excel etc) • Flexibility with regard to working hours • Must possess a full, clean, driving licence Grosvenor Cleaning Services is an Equal Opportunities Employer Salary: €33,000 - €35,000 DOE. Full-time or Part Time.

John Hennessy, Chair, Dundalk Social Services Council, who operate Meals on Wheels, receiving a donation from DunPamela O’Hare Dundalk Simon Commu- dalk Lions by David Larkin. nity and David Larkin Dundalk Lions.

Callan Quinn receiving Louth Volunteer Certificate from David Larkin Dundalk Lions. Callan joined Dundalk Lions in Jan 1986 and is the groups longest continuous serving member. He is also a past President of the Lions.

Graham Purcell Managing Director National Tile Ltd presenting a generous donation as Main Sponsor of Dundalk Lions Golf Classic 2021 to David Larkin.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

Watters welcomes progress on coastal erosion works Concerns have been raised by Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters and a number of residents living at Bellurgan Point and also from a property in Omeath, of coastal erosion which is threatening the road infrastructure in both areas.

Cllr Watters said “I submitted a motion a while back requesting an inspection for Bellurgan and for repairs to be carried out before the road became further undermined and obviously would then cost more to repair.

“Following a site meeting with two Council engineers to survey the damage at both locations, the response was quite positive. I welcome the Council’s urgency to address this issue and it has been confirmed to me now that an application to the Of-

Antóin Watters fice of Public Works (OPW) for funding to cover the works has been submitted.

“The works will involve approx 400m of protection works at Bellurgan and in-

stalling approx 35m of rock armour at Omeath. That will go some way to addressing the erosion.”

However, according to Cllr Watters this news must come

with a health warning. “This is not going to happen overnight.

Even though the Council has agreed the urgency of the works, it is dependent on funding and it could take a number of months for the OPW to grant it.

“If and when the OPW grant the funding it could be 2023 before any proposed works take place and that is dependent on getting environmental consent from An Bord Pleanála and local Council planning consent.

“It is a lengthy process but I will continue to work closely with the Council and keep everyone updated. This first step of the funding application being submitted is very welcome.

“I am continuing to work on other areas affected around the Peninsula.”

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Funding for childcare sector promised by Minister O’Gorman

1—Where were the first modern Olympics held?

2—By what name is footballer Edison Arantes do Nascimento better known?

3—What Munich festival attracts over six million visitors each year?

4—The 1971 John Denver hit ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ was written about which American State, mentioned repeatedly in the song’s chorus?

5—What word, from Latin meaning ‘I shall please’ refers to a control substance used in drug trials which has no chemical effect?

6—Which great explorer born in Seatown Place, Dundalk was known as ‘The Arctic Fox’?

7—Bibliomania is the

compulsive collecting or hoarding of what?

8—Name the only inland city in Ireland.

9—What is the common name of the Bubonic Plague in the Middle Ages?

10—What is the heaviest organ in the human body?

The Stinker—The wood of a cricket bat is traditionally made from which type of tree?

—this week’s answers—

Organisations that provide childcare and support services to some of Louth’s most vulnerable children have received assurances from Minister Roderic O’Gorman that funding and referral structures for the sector will be improved, according to Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Sinn Féin TD was speaking this week after he organised a virtual meeting between the childcare providers and the children’s minister following concerns raised in Louth about funding and related matters.

Representatives from the Cox’s Demesne Youth and Community Project, Hid-

Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. den Treasures, Muirhenamor Community Youth Project, Lios na nÓg and the Moneymore After School Club (Drogheda) were represented at the meeting.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The providers spoke passionately about the work they do with some of the most vulnerable children in the county. They provide one to one homework support, developmental activities, seasonal camps and daily meals to these young people who are at risk of early school drop-out.

‘The services told the minister how the numbers coming through to their services are dropping because the referral system being used is not fit for purpose.

‘The National Childcare Scheme, which is meant to allow referrals to the serv-

ices, was not really intended for this purpose as it is a job activation scheme. The referrals can come from Tusla, but the pathway for getting the children to the services is not streamlined enough. Parents can also be apprehensive about Tusla involvement.

‘We argued that the Department of Education, particularly through the school completion officers and the home-school liaisons, should be able to make referrals to these vital services for children who need that little bit of extra support, particularly when they are young’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said Minister O’Gorman was

‘open and willing to listen’ to the issues and the suggested solutions and revealed that he hopes that a lot of the concerns raised will be dealt with when the review of the National Childcare Scheme and the entire childcare sector reports in November.

In the meantime, Deputy Ó Murchú said, the minister would engage at a senior level with Tusla to try to ensure there was an easier and better pathway available for referrals into these services.

He said: ‘In addition, there was a commitment to look at a mechanism for funding for services operating in very disadvantaged or DEIS areas’.

DkIT planning for full return to campus

By Tamara O’Connell

DUNDALK Institute of Technology (DkIT) has welcomed plans for a safe return to inperson classes for the next academic year “with maximum on-site presence”.

DkIT commented on the plans following a statement from Irish Universities Association (IUA), the Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI).

A statement from the group said institutions will commit to following Government guidance regarding Covid-19, in addition to enhanced safety measures, such as the use of face masks “in indoor on-site shared settings”, optimising ventilation systems, and actively managing large lectures through occupancy and time limits.

“DkIT fully supports this statement and plans to reopen the campus are already under-

way, with more specific information being made available in the coming weeks,” said a DkIT spokesperson.

“There is a hunger from both students and staff to return to campus. The joint approach outlines the range of mitigation measures that will be implemented across the sector to provide for safe reopening.

“It provides a sector-wide commitment on reopening the campus to staff and students for the 2021-22 academic year.”

1—Athens, Greece in 1896, 2—Pelé, 3—Oktoberfest beer festival, 4—West Virginia, 5—Placebo, 6—Francis Leopold McClintock, 7—Books, 8—Kilkenny, 9—The Black Death, 10—Skin. The Stinker: Willow

Launch of Seek Festival

The Arctic Fox Francis Leopold McClintock by Friz on Crowe St.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

Transformational Recovery Programme launched by Turas

’ Turas is a Dundalk dbased community addiction service working with tover 350 people per year efrom Dundalk and surerounding areas. It prorvides one-to-one counselling, community alcohol ydetox, harm reduction, rsocial farming, men and -women’s groups and oute door therapy.

- We are delighted to add to our services The Transformational Recovtery Programme which rinvolves group support, -workshops, outdoor therapy, art therapy and dra-

ma. The programme aims to help participants to develop the skills needed to stay sober long-term and build up their own selfbelief and enable them to create meaningful lives, free from substance misuse.

It is delivered in an understanding, non-judgmental and supportive environment and helps people to personally develop in their recovery from addiction.

The programme runs 2 days per week for 15 weeks. It also includes a

RK Manufacturing trading as

The Factory Shop Yorke Street, Dundalk Tel 042 9331230

weekly 2 hour group session for new participants to familiarise them with a therapeutic group and to prepare them for the 15 week programme.

“We are delighted to offer this innovative programme to people in Dundalk who want to become substance free. Using nature, art and drama it will enhance the experience and offer an interesting, enjoyable and transformative process for participants. The programme is a unique and excellent opportunity for people in

the North East to engage self-exploration in regard to their addiction. Past participants have found it hugely beneficial and many have gone on to find life passions and employment after completing it,” said Alan Duff, Turas Clinical Manager A range of workshops are offered on topics including relationships, relapse prevention, anger management etc., underpinned by a focus on building a better future using a backdrop of nature, art and drama.

This service is provided free of charge to recovering substance misusers within the North Eastern Area, who fulfil the above criteria.

Our next programme starts in September but our weekly preparation group is ongoing so new people can join anytime.

We are funded by the HSE and the North Eastern Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force.

For further information contact Alan Duff Turas 0852857034 or call into 59 Clanbrassil Street.

Dundalk Chamber to host webinar on business cyber crime

Nicki Jordan, Turas.

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Dundalk Chamber will host a Webinar with Ulster Bank on Business Cyber Crime Basics on Tuesday 24th August from 10am to 11am via zoom with guest speaker Eve Curran of Ulster Bank.

This one hour free talk is directed at business owners and will cover topics such as Social Engineering’s role such as Phone Fraud (Vishing) Email Fraud (Phishing), Safe banking-

how to minimise risks and also malicious software (malware).

Eva will also go through SMS text messages (Smishing), invoice redirection, mobile phone security, email and digital banking fraud, insider fraud, data breeches and steps to increase security.

To book your free place call Brenda in Dundalk Chamber on 042 9336343 or email brenda@ dundalk.ie

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Down Syndrome Ireland celebrate 50th birthday Down Syndrome Ireland have been helping local families since 1971 and this week they unveiled a 60ft piece of artwork by renowned street artist and activist Joe Caslin to mark their 50th birthday.

The mural has been erected on a building on the corner of Harcourt Street and Clonmel Street in Dublin’s City Centre. The image entitled, Don’t Talk Down to Me, features a smiling 21-year-old Amanda Butler with Down syndrome.

50 years on, a special report, The Upside – Life with Down syndrome has also

been released highlighting the gaps between the public’s aspirations and the reality for people with down syndrome and their families in day to day life. The artwork and report are part of the charities NEW The Upside campaign which focuses on four key aspects of life for a person with Down syndrome: health, education, employment and life in the community.

Speaking at the launch, Joe Caslin, who knows Amanda personally says, “This particular drawing, like all projects I have undertaken, has been person-

ally poignant. I’m very proud to work with my friend Amanda and her family. In this drawing, Amanda invites you into her world – she asks you to consider her, her Down syndome and the positive presence she can bring to a space, a place of work, a neighbourhood or indeed a city.”

Barry Sheridan, CEO, Down Syndrome Ireland says “On our 50th birthday, we re-dedicate ourselves to a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realise their life’s aspirations and

become valued members of a welcoming society. We hope this mural will grab people’s attention and that our report reveals the need for more action.”

21-year-old Amanda Butler, who lives with her family on a farm in Mullingar, enjoys cooking, is an excellent swimmer and loves music – particularly Westlife and Bruce Springsteen. She’s currently working on developing job skills through her college and hopes to find work in a hospitality, retail or helping to take care of others in childcare or adult day care service.

Excited to be part of the campaign Amanda says, “I am so excited to be part of Down Syndrome Ireland’s anniversary. I am grateful I have been given the chance to shine” The artwork will stay on the wall for four weeks and people are encouraged to share the image using #TheUpSideDSI or can donate to Down Syndrome Ireland by visiting www.theupside.ie.

Below we hear from three local families who speak about their experiences with Down Syndrome Ireland and life as a parent of a child Sixty foot mural unveiled to mark 50 years of with Down’s Syndrome.

Down syndrome Ireland.

‘No limit to what people with Brendan celebrating Down Syndrome can achieve’ 50 years of Down Syndrome Ireland

By Tamara O’Connell

A Dundalk mother of a 21-year-old man with Down Syndrome has said there is no limit now to what people with Down Syndrome can achieve.

Caroline O’Hare from Kingswood is the mother of three children, Rebekah, David and Victoria.

“David was born in Dundalk and immediately rushed to the special care babies unit and then to Crumlin,” said Caroline.

“He had three holes in his heart and had to have surgery at ten weeks old. He had his operation in Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“It was a stressful time and not a place I go back to easily. The surgery went very well. He still has a tiny hole in his heart but it doesn’t bother him.”

David also suffered from chest infections as a young child but has overcome that and is now a keen athlete.

By Tamara O’Connell

Caroline O’Hare with her son David.

“David’s very funny and quite well known in Dundalk. He’s involved with the Special Olympics and plays football, basketball and does athletics and he swims,” she said.

“His Dad and I made sure we never kept him back by having Down Syndrome.

Anything he wanted to try, we let him but he definitely veered towards sports.”

David attended St Bridget’s School in Dundalk from

the age of four to 18. Caroline was on the parents’ committee since David started at the school.

“It’s a fabulous school and we did a lot of fundraising for it. He was very happy there and now he attends a day service in Dundalk called ‘New Visions’ at Rehab Care,” she said.

“I’m a member of the Louth Meath branch of Down Syndrome Ireland.

It’s been very helpful be-

cause it’s lovely to have feedback from other parents and to give other parents advice.

“The world today is far better than it was 21 years ago. There’s no limit to what people with Down Syndrome can achieve. They can do whatever they want.

“Last year before the pandemic hit David was meant to go to Turkey to represent Ireland in athletics in the Trisomy Games.”

Down Syndrome Ireland member Brendan Stephenson is celebrating 50 years of the charity’s existence this year.

According to Brendan Stephenson, part-time administrator of the Louth Meath branch of Down Syndrome Ireland he got involved with the charity in 2007.

“My 13-year-old daughter Poppy was born in 2007. Getting the diagnosis of Down Syndrome was a shock at the time,” he said.

“In some ways there was a little grief for the child you didn’t have but then you had to celebrate the child you had.

“Once you get through that, it’s all hands to the pump. I joined the branch looking for a support network.”

Brendan and Poppy Stephenson.

Brendan added: “I met other parents and got help and advice from them. There was also a home teacher programme which Poppy qualified for from the age of 12 months old.

“A home teacher would visit us every two weeks during school term and help with play, sensory stuff,

fine and gross motor skills, speech, physio and occupational therapy.”

This year marks 50 years of Downs Syndrome Ireland’s existence, an existence built upon campaigning, advocating, fundraising and celebrating the lives of people with Down syndrome.

Niamh speaks about emotional journey with Zach

By Tamara O’Connell

A Dundalk woman has spoken about her emotional journey after having a child with Down Syndrome in a bid to help other parents.

Niamh McArdle and her husband, Alan, from Mountpleasant have two sons, Zach, aged 15, and Alex, aged 14.

“Before Zach was born, we had no indication that he had Down Syndrome.

The technology wasn’t as good then. When he was

born, they still didn’t pick it up right away,” said Niamh.

“But I knew by looking at him he had Down Syndrome. Luckily, he didn’t have any health problems – just two holes in his heart which closed up over time.

“He also had jaundice so they kept him in for a week and then we were sent home with no information.”

Niamh added: “I was 38 when I had him and I had read that over 35 there

was a greater chance of having a baby with Down Syndrome.

“I adored him but I was devastated initially.

I’m not sad about it now.

I went to counselling for three months and I found therapy very good.

Zach attended St Nicholas National School with his younger brother, Alex until third class before switching to St Bridget’s.

“He absolutely loves St Bridget’s. He’s a child that loves company and the craic, music and danc-

ing,” she said.

“Zach knows he’s different. I told him people with Down Syndrome give off a special glow and he loves that idea. We’ve been very positive about it.

“I’d like to tell people who are new parents to children with Down Syndrome that there’s no need to be devastated. Kids with DS are an absolute joy.

“They bring families together and teach siblings to be more caring and tolerant. He’s the love of our lives.”

Niamh McArdle.

11

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

Family Notices in memoriam

novena

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

Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). A.D. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it).

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

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). O.G. 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). H.M.

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

Ardee Concert Band welcome grants

Ardee Concert Band at a recent rehearsal.

The Minister for Education Norma Foley, TD recently announced in July, details of the 39 successful organisations that will receive a grant under her Department’s Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary Scheme 2021.

Local community Band, Ardee Concert Band were listed as 1 of the successful 39 organisations awarded a sum that will fund new uniforms and instruments for new members into their Band rooms on Ashwalk, Ardee, Co. Louth.

The Bursary scheme provides a means by successful application, a small cash grant, to support music education and music initiatives to continue to cul-

tivate the talent of our young musicians. These organisations & groups provide access to a variety of music education experiences for young people and children in the community outside of school and curriculum provision.

The budget available in 2021 is €100,000.

Minister Foley said; Bursaries available under this scheme will help organisations get resources they need to continue working with children and young people in community settings.”

Ardee Concert Band have also received funding after a successful application through Louth County Council, with The Community Enhancement Pro-

gramme (CEP). It is providing funding to locally based community and voluntary groups in disadvantaged urban and rural areas across Co. Louth. The funding is targeted towards enhancing community facilities for individuals and communities that are impacted by disadvantage as identified in the Local Economic Community Plan. Louth County Council has been allocated €145,542.

Ardee Concert Band will use their newly awarded Louth County Council grant on a capital project to upgrade their Bohemian Centre stage lighting system to LED energy saving stage lights in line with the bands strategic aim to be eco friendly.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

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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.

I AM LOOKING for an Ensuite Room, apartment or house in Dundalk Town Centre, a.s.a.p. Please contact Martin 083 8894363.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

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Childminder available—Castletown Road,Dundalk. Full-time and parttime hours available from October 2021.

Phone 0877554713 or email childminding16@gmail.com.

LT Power Washing service—“No job too Big or Small” - Patios, Driveways, walls, etc Contact James 086 8930086 for “Free Quotation”.

LOCAL MAN AVAILABLE For block laying and plastering, small to medium jobs undertaken. Tel. 087 6359856.

articles for sale Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have, Sofas from €299, 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.

articles wanted Wanted—Old Dundalk Memorabilia wanted including Tempest Annuals, 1916 related items & pub memorabilia. Please contact Robert on 087 7683547.

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING— Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com <mailto:tribalky@yahoo.com>.

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.

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TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087 387 8995 for free quote.

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situations vacant YOUNG PERSON WANTED to help old person in garden. Good pay. Tel. 089 255 8363.

legal notices AN CHUIRT DUICHE The District Court

District Court Area of Dundalk District No. 6 Public Dance Halls Act 1935, Section 2 Notice of Application for a Public Dancing Licence Seamus Lambe, Chairman, Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited (Applicant) TAKE NOTICE that I, Seamus Lambe of Newtownbalreagan, Kilkerley, Dundalk, County Louth, Chairman of the above mentioned Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited intends to apply to the District Court sitting at the Courthouse, Dundalk, County Louth on the 23rd September 2021 at 10.30am for the grant of a Licence to use a particular place to with Kilkerley Community Development Group Limited premises situate at Plaster, Kilkerley, Dundalk in the County of Louth in Court Area and District aforesaid for Public Dancing.

Dated this 5th day of August 2021.

Signed: Hamill Wallace & Hardy (Solicitors for the Applicant) 2 Demesne, Dundalk, County Louth.

To: The District Court Clerk, The Courthouse, Dundalk, County Louth.

And To: The Superintendent of the Garda Siochana, Dundalk Garda Station, The Crescent, Dundalk, County Louth.

And To: The Secretary, Louth County Council, Millennium Buildings, St. Alphonsus Road, Dundalk, County Louth, Being the Fire Authority for the purpose of the Fire Services Act, 1981, and being the Local Authority for the purposes of The Public Dance Halls Act 1935.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

12

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Pete Johnson discusses musical journey on US podcast show

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Pete Johnson (second from left) pictured with his Rumble band mates at their peak during the 1990s.

Dundalk musician Pete Johnson will be the subject of an hour long show on American youtube channel Punk n Preppy this Saturday evening at 7pm. The US husband and wife duo were blown away upon hearing recordings from Pete’s old band Rumble and having heard some more of his songs they decided to dedicate a whole show to his musical career to date.

Pete is well known locally and has been a charismatic figure on the music scene since bursting into the publics consciousness with Rumble in the early to mid-90’s. The band signed to Dead Elvis records and took part in several tours of Ireland and Europe promoting two albums as well as being asked to do a coveted John Peel session on BBC Radio 1. Pete speaks about this and more as well as the death of his former manager who fell off a balcony just as Rumble were about to travel to the US on tour. That incident hit Pete hard and had a negative impact on his mental health which he says marked the beginning of the end for Rumble.

“I’ve been in love with music from a very young age thanks to my Dad Martin ‘Grizzly’ Johnson who taught me how to play the guitar when I was a kid. The first band I was ever in was called ‘The Works’ when I was about sixteen and I was bitten by the bug immediately. I loved writing my own songs and singing them to a crowd that experience meant I was ready when I formed my second band called Rumble.

We enjoyed lots of success in Ireland and around Europe and they were without doubt the best days of my life. We were close to what you would call making it but we were

stopped in our tracks by a tragedy which hit me hard.

“We had a Spanish manager called Juan Mata who I lived with and he was probably my best friend at the time and he had just organised our first tour of the U.S when he fell off a balcony and tragically died.

That incident really hit me hard and I ended up having a nervous breakdown and entering Ardee Mental Hospital.

The band split and after trying to get my mental health sorted out I went solo releasing a couple of albums including one called Screwball which was all about mental health.

“I used to find it tough to talk about that sort of stuff but I am not afraid anymore and I have spoke openly and honestly about my battles on the Punk n Preppy show which airs on Saturday evening. I was honestly humbled beyond belief when they contacted me asking if they could interview me and dedicate a whole show to my life and music. They are real big punk fans from Bethlehem in Pennsylvania and when they heard one of my songs they loved it and it snowballed from there.

“We talk about all the music I have made, including that of my new band RP-3000 which consists of myself and a guy called Robbie Sharkey. We also talk about mental health which I am a big advocate of as it is clear there is a huge problem with that issue in this country. I think the programme is an hour and a half long and hopefully it will bring back some good memories for people locally who might have enjoyed coming to see us play in the 90’s,” stated Pete The Punk n Preppy show featuring Pete Johnson will air on youtube on Saturday night at 7:00pm.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

14

recent deaths Hugh (Hughie) HOEY Oakland Park, Dun- with love by her brother, daughter Sara, brothers James, Chris, Caoimhín, Colm and dalk, Louth. Peacefully, in the tender and grandson Tom, sister-in-law Irene, niece Niall, by her granny Aileen Callan, granddedicated care of the staff of Our Lady of Laurena, nephew Fergus, extended family, aunt Mary Kane, grandaunts and grandunLourdes Hospital, Drogheda. Beloved hus- friends, neighbours and by all who knew cles, aunties Dolores, Lorraine, Kathleen, Mary, Anne and Christine, uncles Michael, band of the late Susan, father of Thomas and loved her. and Freda and son of the late Matthew and Thomas (Tommy) (Squig) Connolly David, Gavin, Lawrence, Shane, Dermot Mary Rose. He will be sadly missed by his Forkhill Road, Lisdoo, Dundalk, Louth. and Cyril, Anthony’s partner Jelena, Olga, sorrowing son, daughter, grandchildren Former player & manager of Dundalk F.C. James’ partner Sophie and her many cousAlison, Ciara and Hannah, great-grand- Peacefully in the kind and gentle care of ins and friends. child Eli, son-in-law Donal, sister Mary, the staff in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Brendan REID (SNR) Lis na Ree, Avenue nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours Drogheda . Beloved husband and best Road, Dundalk, Louth. Peacefully surfriend to Kitty, adored father of Sha- rounded by his family at Our Lady of Lourand friends.

Paul GRIFFIN late of Drive One, Muir- ron, Thomas, Michael, Andrea, Catherine, des Hospital. Beloved husband of the late hevnamor, Dundalk, Louth. Unexpectedly, Barry, Ciarán, Nicola and Niamh, Pre- Olive (née Woolsey) and dear dad of Ausat Sunhill Nursing Home, Termonfeckin. deceased by his parents Brigid & Michael, tin, Brendan, Damien, Vincent, Averil, JulPredeceased by his parents, Frank and sisters Mary & Anna, brothers Micheál & ie, Clare, Bernie and Frank, Predeceased by Kathleen (late of Seatown), brothers Ol- Seamus. Tommy will be sadly missed and his loving wife, parents Patrick and Mary, iver, John and Thomas. Paul will be sadly remembered with love by his wife, daugh- brother Frank, sisters Ethel and Sheila. missed by his loving son Nicky, daughter ters, sons, their partners Eoin, Lisa, Mickey, Brendan will be sadly missed with love by Linda and their mum Olivia (née Gray), Matt, Leanna, Mark & Woody, adoring his sons, daughters, brothers James, Paddy sisters Patricia Thompson and Kathleen grandchildren Conor, Cathal, Síobhan, and Vincent, sister Chris O’ Hare, sons inMcCarthy, brothers Seamus, Brendan and Ciara, Darragh, Cian, Doíreann, Iarlaith, law, daughters in-law, 21 grandchildren, David, son in-law Brian, daughter in-law Abigail, Lily, Meggi & Demi, sisters Breda, brothers in-law, sisters in-law, nephews, Michelle, grandchildren Lorcan, Eimmear Christina & Alice, brother Brendan, Sisters- nieces, extended family relatives, wonderand Fiach, brothers in-law, sisters in-law, in-law, brothers-in-law, extended family, ful friends and neighbours. nephews, nieces, extended family rela- neighbours, friends and by all at Oriel Park Moira KERR (née Hoey) The Lynns, Annagassan, Louth. Peacefully in the love and (Dundalk F.C). tives, friends and neighbours.

Nora French (neé Bloomfield), The Cot- Noel Ross Oliver Plunkett Park, Dundalk. tender care of St. Oliver Plunkett Nursing tage, Riverstown, Ardee, Co. Louth. Peace- Peacefully in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Home surrounded by her loving family. fully at Moorehall Lodge Nursing Home. 28th July 2021. Noel son of the late Alex- Beloved wife of Benny and cherished mum Predeceased by her husband Teddy. Sadly ander and Mary Elizabeth and brother of of June, Siobhan, Peter, Aileen, Deirdre, missed by her loving family, neighbours Berty, Eddie, Ronnie, Mervyn, and the late Pauline, Noeleen and Emma, Predeceased and the staff and residents of Moorehall John, Billy, Eileen and Violet. Noel will be by her parents Patrick and Marcella, sadly missed by his brothers, nephews, brothers Paddy and Johnny, Moria will be Lodge.

Fionnuala Butler Riverside Apart- nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, sadly missed with love by her husband, ments, Castletown Road and late of Lower brother-in-law, sister-in-law, relatives and son, daughters, sister Ann Maguire, sons Point Road, Dundalk, Louth. Suddenly but his many friends including those in the Ar- in-law, 20 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, sisters in-law Jackie Hoey and peacefully at The Mater Hospital, Dublin. chaeology Society.

Loving sister of Larry. Predeceased by Grace Harris Lismanus, Dunleer, Louth / Eileen Beirne, nephews, nieces, extended her parents Ambrose & Molly. Fionnuala Navan, Meath. Grace will be sadly missed family relatives, wonderful neighbours will be sadly missed and remembered by her mother Paula, father Anthony and and friends.

Service of Remembrance at Dundalk Famine Graveyard this Sunday

How Covid-19 has affected learner drivers—AA Ireland

By Lauren Beehan AA Ireland Like so many other aspects of our lives over the past 18 months, the learning to drive process has been severely impacted by the pandemic and its restrictions. Lessons, tests and driving licence services were suspended or reserved for essential workers for around half a year during the Level 5 restrictions, and only fully reopened from June onwards.

This has led to severe backlogs and delays for those hoping to get their licence.

If you’re setting out on your learning journey or resuming it after a pandemic-enforced break, bear in mind that it will probably take longer than you’d like, but don’t be dissuaded – the long-term benefits of getting your licence are well worth it.

Tests and Waiting Lists—Both the Driver Theory Test and the Driving Test itself were stopped during the strictest restrictions, which has led to very long queues for both. The latest numbers revealed by a parliamentary question on July 9th showed that 119,253 people were waiting for a theory test, and 105, 216 waiting for a driving test.

This means around 1 in every 17 people over the age of seventeen in the country is on a waiting list for one of the two; and that doesn’t include the people who have learner permits but haven’t yet applied for the practical test yet.

There is hope that theory tests can be expanded to 25,000 a day in the medium term, and a new pilot scheme is allowing people to take the test online instead of going to the centre – but if you’re hoping for that option, keep in mind that this currently requires access to a PC running Windows 8 or above, and can’t be done on any other devices (such as your phone or a tablet).

The RSA say they are working on an online tool now that will estimate how long your wait for the practical test will be. They have hired an extra 40 testers, and may change the

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

opening hours to fit more tests in every day.

Appointments are now being offered to the eligible people who have been waiting the longest, although there are also priority lists for essential workers and for those who had to cancel a previous appointment due to having covid symptoms or being a close contact.

Lessons—Like tests, driving lessons were suspended for several months during the Level 5 restrictions and then reopened at first for essential workers only. This means that there is significant demand for lessons, although this is difficult to measure, as there is no centralised booking process – you book with your individual instructor or driving school. At a meeting of the Oireachtas Transport Committee in April, ADIs (driving instructors) estimated that there would be demand for over 1 million hours of EDT lessons once the restrictions lifted. With around 1,500 instructors in the country, that’s a lot of lessons to catch up on.

All learners must complete the 12 EDT lessons at a minimum, but many will need more, so this could present a further delay to those hoping to apply for their tests. If you’re struggling to book lesson times, try to get in more practice where possible with your sponsor (the fully qualified driver who accompanies you) – it’s better to keep things up, rather than leaving long gaps of no driving between lessons.

Safety measures for covid-19— Learning to drive involves sharing a vehicle with the instructor and tester, which is why it was so impacted by the pandemic. A number of safety measures are in place to protect both instructors/testers and the learner.

Both parties should wear a face mask, the front windows should be left open and the vehicle should be cleaned before a lesson or test. Remember the windows will be open for the duration of the lesson or test, so pick comfortable clothes that will keep you warm.

If you wear glasses while driving, make sure you’ve tested them with a mask beforehand

042 9331515/086 2559201

Dundalk Famine Graveyard service of remembrance will take place on the 8th of August at 5pm at the famine graveyard located at Killally A91E76N. Dundalk Famine Graveyard has become one of the most important local historical sites since it was restored by a group of dedicated volunteers in recent years.

Located on the Ardee road, it is the resting place for over 4000 people who died between 1850 to 1955. Most of the deceased came from Dundalk Workhouse from 1850 onwards, when the famine graveyard at the workhouse became full.

There are no headstones in the graveyard but only marker

stones marking graves which the committee put white crosses marking some of the graves. Volunteers completed the restoration of the graveyard wall surrounding the graveyard in 2020.

Over the century since the last burial in 1900 the graveyard fell into neglect, with vegetation destroying the neat stone walls that surrounded the site, and the grass area in the centre became badly overgrown.

For years there were suggestions that efforts should be made to reclaim the graveyard from the steady march of nature, but it was not until 2000 that a group of local people took the initiative, believing

that some dignity should be shown to these victims of the Great Famine by erecting a modest and appropriate memorial on the site.

Over the last 20 years they have restored the stone walls round the graveyard, and the grass surface that covers the graves.

In so doing they have renewed interest in the people buried there and the circumstances under which they lived.

They have also ensured that a memorial service is held annually, and hopefully over the years access to the site, which is difficult enough, can be improved with better surfaces and signage.

and found the most suitable way to prevent them from fogging up.

Don’t ever attend a lesson or a test if you have covid-19 symptoms or are a close contact – the RSA have a priority rebooking list for those who had to cancel their test for these reasons, and you won’t lose your fee.

Learner permits and expiry dates—Learner permits (along with all driving licences) that were due to expire during the pandemic have been extended; most recently on June 24th, when all those due to expire by July 2021 were extended by another 10 months. So if your permit was due to expire between March and June 2020, it remains valid for 18 months after that date.

If it expired between July and October 2020, it remains valid for 14 months after the date printed on it, and if it expired between November 2020 and July 2021, it’s still valid for 10 months after that date.

You won’t be sent a new permit with the new date, but you can calculate it on the NDLS website. Make sure you know the right date for your permit; don’t risk finding yourself with an expired permit unexpectedly, as driving with an expired permit is an offence and may also affect your insurance cover. You can renew it 3 months before it expires to avoid this.

Learner laws—The laws around learner drivers have not changed during the pandemic: learners must hold a valid permit, display L-plates and be accompanied by a fully qualified driver (not another learner or a novice).

The requirements for taking the test – having completed the minimum 12 EDT lessons and waiting 6 months after getting the permit – have also stayed in place.

Despite the waiting lists for tests and lessons, don’t be tempted to drive unaccompanied. A qualified driver helps to advise you and keep you safe, and an unaccompanied learner caught out on the roads faces a fine, penalty points and having their vehicle seized.

Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021

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Dundalk Leader 28th July 2021