06-01-2022

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Record sales for Shop Local Vouchers Page 8

Donation box stolen from Santa’s Grotto

Antigen tests should be free says O'Murchú

Page 10

Page 12

Thursday, 6th January, 2022. Vol. 15, Issue 1 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Teacher shortage an issue as schools return

Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

Local INTO representative Adrian Kelly has warned that difficult steps will have to be taken in the weeks and months ahead after the government confirmed on Tuesday evening that schools would reopen as planned today.

Public health officials gave the green light for schools to return after a lengthy meeting with Education minister Norma Foley and various education stakeholders on Tuesday. A statement from the Department of Education said that public health advice remains that COVID-19 mitigation measures in place in schools ‘are effective and appropriate’.

However, many teacher unions including INTO remain unhappy and are unconvinced that the school environment is safe for teachers. According to Adrian Kelly Louth rep for INTO the re-opening of schools will be ‘extremely challenging’.

“The reopening of our schools is extremely challenging. Most schools will simply not be able to operate as normal owing to the absences of children and staff who are required to isolate. There will be times when, despite the incredible efforts of principals and teachers, difficult steps will have to be taken,” he warned.

Continued on Page 2

Josh is a little blue hero!

Dundalk Gardaí welcomed Josh O’Hagan into the force as the 12 year old was made an honourary Garda by the Little Blue Heroes Foundation. See Page 2.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Teacher shortage an issue as schools return 2

From Page 1 primary education staff unvaccinated people in “Crucially we need are going back to care the country, in the largto acknowledge that for the largest cohort of est class sizes in the EU. Many are anxious, especially those with underlying health issues, high risk family members and pregnant women.

The Department of Education assured the INTO yesterday that public health, the occupational health service and the department would keep all measures related to vulnerable educational staff under review.

“The primary education sector was let down by this government in the last term. Ripping out contact tracing, tearing up risk assessments and ditching batch-testing left our schools exposed when a new variant emerged.

History will record this decision as a spectacular failure of leadership which led to a loss of faith by teachers and school leaders that they would be properly supported and protected,” stated Adrian.

“The primary sector remains in the midst of a staffing crisis, with schools up and down the country struggling to source substitute cover when they need it.

While the Department of Education initially failed to acknowledge the extent of the problem, recent steps to enable student teachers to undertake paid substitution work in schools on a short-term basis has enabled more schools to remain open when it might otherwise not have been possible. At yesterday’s meeting, the union was informed that more student teachers will be made available to undertake this work during the next two months at least.

“At yesterday’s meeting, the INTO was advised that school inspectors will be seconded to help schools who cannot access substitution cover to make decisions

regarding how best to give priority to children with additional needs and younger classes while other classes may have to return to remote learning from time to time.”

“We set out our concerns that primary schools had been abandoned by public health in recent months, at a time of great unease and anxiety when case numbers among 5-12year olds multiplied by 50 to 1100 per day by mid-December. While the union received commitments today that designated public health staff nationwide would reengage with the sector, time will tell if the level of support being provided is sufficient.

Josh is made an honorary guard

St Joseph’s National School Tom Bellew Avenue

Admissions 2022 ‘Create the best future for your child'

Deadline for ‘Applications for Admissions’ form submission:

10th January 2022

‘Applications for Admissions’ forms are available from the school reception and the school website www.sjns.ie Completed forms must be returned to reception or emailed to admissions@sjns.ie

*Parents with siblings attending St Joseph’s must complete an Applications for Admissions form if they wish their child to be considered for a place in the new Junior Infant class in August 2022.*

By Tamara O’Connell

A YOUNG Dundalk boy who was born with a congenital heart condition, has been made an honorary guard by the Little Blue Heroes Foundation.

Josh O’Hagan, aged 12, from Coulter Place was made an honorary guard on Thursday, December 23 last.

“It was a great day.

He had a ball. It was amazing,” said Josh’s mother, Mags.

“Some guards from Dundalk Garda Station arrived over to the house around 3.30pm.

There was a couple of family members there too to cheer Josh on.

“They gave him a wee outfit and he went into the house to try it on. He was delighted with himself.”

She added: “We took some photos and I made a video of him and then the guards took him out for a little spin out the road in the garda car.

“They presented him with a medal as well.

A delighted Josh in his new garda uniform with his parents Mags and Niall O’Hagan.

He was very excited.

There was a big smile on his face. He was gobsmacked.

“He got a selection box and a Nerf gun as a present too, and myself and my husband, Niall, were presented with a hamper full of lovely things.”

Mags continued: “There were vouchers for places around town in there too and a lovely Tipperary Crystal Christmas tree bauble.

“We couldn’t thank them enough for everything they did for us.

We were overwhelmed.

It was a day we will never forget.”

Josh has an older

sister, Alicia, and a twin sister, Kim, and a younger brother, Jamie.

He attends Scoil Naofa in Kilcurry and is due to start in St Mary’s College later this year with his sister, Kim. Josh was born with a congenital heart condition and has undergone three heart operations.

His final one took place in 2014 when he was just four-years-old.

“He’s doing really well. He has a hole in his heart so they have to keep an eye on him but thank God he’s doing well. He goes for check-ups in Crumlin every six months,” said Mags.

Principals need an ally on the other end of the phone, someone who will treat them with respect, act quickly and provide them with the advice they need to lead their schools at a time of crisis. Nothing less can be tolerated.”

Adrian also urged the government to reintroduce contract tracing as soon as possible.

“The reckless dismantling of the contact tracing and risk assessment regime in our schools in late September has left the country somewhat blind as to the reality of transmission in our schools.

Government must be prepared to accept when they have made mistakes and restore contact trac-

ing and school testing data to ensure we can actually see what’s happening in our schools.

In some schools one case only becomes two cases, in other schools one case becomes 50.

A lack of awareness as to what’s happening in specific schools hinders our ability to make informed decisions and protect our school communities.

We fundamentally reject the findings of the public health review which has concluded that contact tracing should not be reinstated in primary educational settings at this time. As a union we continue to demand that it be rolled out in schools,” concluded Adrian.

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Late night football league continues to thrive Young people from different backgrounds have found that soccer is the international language that can bring them together, thanks to a Garda initiative that has been running in Dundalk for the last number of months.

The Late Night League, which has been running in the town for 12 years, is funded by the Children’s Services and Facilities Fund, and is organised by a committee made up of Dundalk Gardai (Paul Burke JLO Garda) and representatives from Dundalk FC (Liam Burns), the FAI (Mick Neville), Louth County Council and LMETB. The facilities at Dundalk IT are used for the games.

Usually, two late night soccer leagues are run in any given year, but there were four this year, and they have been incredibly successful, according to Garda Burke.

He said: ‘It is all about community involvement

The Late Night League continues to thrive in Dundalk. and involving as many young people from diverse backgrounds as possible. It is free – it doesn’t cost anything to attend and it is open to those aged 16 to 18 years old.

‘This year, we had on average 30 young people involved in the games, which took place between 9pm and 10pm on Thursday nights. The group is made up of all young men and all communities are represented this year.

‘It has worked really well. It provides an opportunity for young people to engage with Gardaí and to keep active. It also provides a chance for the young men to meet with others

from outside their usual social circles and to begin to understand each other.

‘Any troubles or issues are parked on the sidelines for the games, and aren’t as important any more when the final whistle blows.

‘The young people involved were absolutely brilliant. The games were played on the four Thursdays in November and the first two Monday and Thursdays of December’.

Garda Burke said he is particularly pleased with the project this year and praised the youth workers and community leaders who encouraged participation in the Late Night League, including

Vincie McCrory, Banjo Bannon, John Connolly, Imam Nooh Buye and Gardai Paul Connolly and Dara Prior.

He said Dundalk’s new Superintendent, Charles Armstrong, attended one of the games in the early weeks following his appointment.

He was very supportive of the project.

And some of the games were attended

by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Garda Burke said: ‘We are delighted with the response we have received from those who participated. It is a strong, long-established project that we hope to continue for many years to come’.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Independent engineer to assess Sandy Road junction

By Tamara O’Connell

John Halpenny of Halpenny Travel has welcomed the decision by councillors to pass a motion calling on Louth County Council (LCC) to organise an Independent Engineers road safety audit at the Rock Road/Sandy Lane junction.

The motion also called for “an Independent Engineers opinion of the auto track sweep path analysis carried out at Rock Road/Sandy Lane junction due to town and village funding for footpath upgrade in May 2021.”

Earlier this year all bus stops on Sandy Lane in Blackrock were cancelled because of infrastructure changes at the Rock Road junction.

“We are very happy that they decided to go with an independent report. It’s unsafe because a vehicle has to cross a single white line,” said John.

“It is in my opinion,

The junction at Sandy Lane wil be assessed independently. unsafe. Council officials are maintaining it’s not unsafe. We won’t get a definitive answer until we get an independent report.”

John added: “I’m not sure when we will get the report. It will probably be January before we see it now.

“The biggest thing for us is safety. We don’t want to cause an accident. We only cancelled the bus routes due to safety concerns.

We will do all we can to avoid an accident.”

Cllr Maeve Yore introduced a motion to have an independent

audit of the junction to solve the issue at the November meeting of the Dundalk Municipal District.

The motion was put before all councillors at the December meeting to vote on it. It was seconded by Cllr Sean Kelly.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Office Administrator

ECC Group, a fast growing vibrant company based in Jenkinstown, Dundalk is seeking an Office Administrator on a full-time or part-time basis. This position will include l Working with the management to ensure the planning, coordination and completion of all regulatory obligations and administration requirements. l Build key relationships with clients, respond swiftly to client requests and manage client expectations. l General administration duties. l Managing emails, phone calls, correspondence and updating social media sites. l Managing van fleet, timesheets and equipment. l Must have an excellent knowledge of MS Office 365. l Competency in prioritising work with little supervision. l Making travel arrangements. l Organising training. l Assist with tender applications and other documentation. l General HR duties.

Key Requirements: l Proven experience, minimum of 2-3 years as an office administrator, office assistance or relevant role. l Excellent business literacy and numeracy skills. l Driven with an excellent attention to detail. l A self-motivated team player. l Ability to multitask and handle various tasks simultaneously. l Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. l Excellent organizational, time management and leadership skills. l MS Office: 2 years (required) l Administration: 3 years (required) l 3rd level qualification in a related field is desirable but not necessary. l Fluency in English.

Salary: Negotiable, based on experience and expertise

Reply to recruitment@eccgroup.ie

1—99-year-old actress Betty White died on New Year’s Eve. What popular US TV sitcom did she star in from 1985 to 1992?

2—In the human body what is the more common name used for the patella?

3—If two angles in a triangle are both 40 degrees, what is the third?

4—Who starred opposite Jim Carrey in the 1994 comedy film Dumb and Dumber?

5—Abuja is the capital of the most populated country in Africa.

Name the country.

6—How many parishes are in Dundalk?

7—What animal is the Canary Islands named after?

8—Can you name the seven counties in

Record sales for Shop Local vouchers

By Tamara O’Connell

Ireland that contain the letter G? 9—Why are the numbers 19, 21, 25 and 30 significant in the music industry?

10—What date is Nollaig na mBan (Women’s Christmas) celebrated in Ireland?

The Stinker—There are only two landlocked countries in South America.

Name one of them.

—this week’s answers— 1—The Golden Girls, 2—Kneecap, 3—100 degrees, 4—Jeff Daniels, 5—Nigeria, 6—Four: St Patrick’s, St Josephs, Holy Redeemer and Holy Family, 7—Dog. Canis is the latin word for dog, 8—Armagh, Fermanagh, Donegal, Galway, Sligo, Longford, Monaghan, 9—They are the names of the four best-selling albums

by Adele. 10—6th January. The Stinker: Paraguay or Bolivia.

8

Sales of Shop Local gift vouchers hit a record €1.3 million in 2021, according to Dundalk Chamber PRO Paddy Malone.

Total sales now amount to over €5 million since their launch six years ago. Dundalk Chamber President Sean Farrell said the vouchers have been “an unmitigated success”.

He added that “there was a huge effort put in by the Chamber to help local retailers and businesses and this voucher scheme has given local retailers a welcome boost in difficult time”.

Meanwhile, Paddy said: “The way we look at it, it’s getting bigger and bigger every year. The first year we rolled out the vouchers, the total fig-

ure amounted to half a million euro.

“It’s great. Fair play to everybody for using it and also for accepting it. Employers are using it to give a Christmas bonus.

“And employees have been happy to accept them. They are not turning around saying they want cash instead.”

Paddy added: “It’s a win-win situation every way you look at it. It’s a simple message and it works.

“We would like to be able to do it twice a year rather than once a year at Christmas. I’ve mentioned this to An Tanaiste Leo Varadkar and he seemed to be quite interested in the idea.

“It would be great if we were allowed to do it again just before the summer holidays. It would be good news. A definite win for the town.”

Pat McCormick (immediate past President), Michael Gaynor (Past President), Sean Farrell President Thomas McDonagh, Treasurer and Paddy Malone PRO.

Pat Byrne President Dundalk Lions Una Mc Goey Vice President Dundalk Chamber Paddy Malone P.R.O. Dundalk Chamber.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Donation box stolen from Santa’s Grotto in Omeath Gardaí in Omeath are investigating following the theft of a donation box at the Santa’s Grotto in Omeath.

The donation box was one of two in the village installed by the Omeath Action Group Festival of Lights committee and the fact it has been stolen has left members of the committee as well as local residents shocked and appalled.

The festive lights and Santa’s Grotto has been a very welcome addition to the festive period in Omeath and has

been a huge success since its launch seven years ago.

A member of the committee told the Dundalk Leader that this was the first time in seven years that anything like this has happened and he appealed to people in the area to call Gardaí if they seen anything suspicious on the evening of Tuesday 28th December.

“We noticed the donation box had been taken from the wooden post outside Santa’s Grotto on Wednesday

morning so the theft either took place late on Tuesday evening or in the early hours of Wednesday morning,” explained the Omeath Action Group/Festival of Lights committee member.

“It is very disappointing that somebody or some people would stoop so low as to steal a box which contained donations to help fund the work we do each year to light Omeath during the Festive period. There was probably about €200 or €300 in the

box and we have reported the theft to local gardaí who are currently looking through CCTV footage. We have been informed that there were a group of three teenagers spotted in the park late on Tuesday evening and the gardaí have been notified of that fact. We would appeal to anybody who was around Omeath on Tuesday evening to please get in touch with Garda if they can remember anything suspicious they saw on the evening of the 28th of

December.

“We are all gutted that anybody would stoop so low as to target a group which is trying to promote Omeath and make the area look lovely during Christmas time. We work hard to put on the festival of lights and the grotto for the community and we ask people to give what they can afford if they enjoy the experience. To have that money taken from us is just a very hard pill to swallow,” stated the committee member.

Dundalk Karate €10,000 holiday end year on a high win for Denis

The donation box was fixed to the above pole.

Expert Hardware head office ran a competition over a number of weeks on their website and across all social media platforms.

The winner was picked at random and Denis Molloy, a local man from Dundalk won this amazing prize just in time for Christmas.

Pictured left to right: Denis is pictured with Dundalk Karate Club ended 2022 on a high by throwing a Christmas party for all their students. store owner Fintan Kerr, collecting his prize from Ending 2021 on a high was tion to some awards to be given. but with so many restrictions the local Expert hardware the name of the game for all First to be presented with the, we could only have some fun store, Home & Garden members of Dundalk Karate “Most Improved Ninja” was and games for members with a stores Ardee. recently. Having trained every Maebh Degan, this was then few awards for some very outMonday and Thursday with- quickly followed by awards standing members, OSS.” out fail since restrictions were to Jayden Neasy, Amy CalDundalk Karate wishes all its eased, numerous members lan, Georgi Harsev and Jack of Dundalk Karate stepped Wallace for their Outstanding members, family and friends Blackrock Tidy Towns are proforward to Grade under the Grading. Congratulations to a Happy Christmas and they viding a Christmas Tree Recycline/ look forward to seeing every- Shredding service again this year. critical eye of Head of Dundalk everyone.

Karate, Sensei Mary Marcus Afterwards Sensei Marcus one back in their Dojo in JanuResidents are invited to bring their 3rd Dan and Sensei Catherine said, “It was fantastic to see ary 2022. If you would like any tree to the Community Centre on Marcus 2nd Dan. so many members thrive and information on Dundalk KaFollowing everyone’s suc- excel over the past few weeks, rate and the classes they hold Sandy Lane Blackrock on SATURDAY 8th JANUARY from 11.00am cessful grading, it was time to and their hard work has paid in the Redeemer Family Re- to 3.00pm. celebrate, and fun and games off with everyone Grading sucPelican Promotions will again partwere called for before their cessfully. To round up every source Centre, you can contact Christmas break. With mem- year we would normally have Sensei Mary Marcus 3rd Dan ner with Tidy Towns to offer their bers eager to finally relax, Sen- an Awards Night for all our for full details on 086 353 1625 assistance in this worthwhile service and will organise kerbside collection, sei Marcus called their atten- members and their family, or karatequeen@live.com.

Blackrock TT offer Christmas tree recycling within a 3 mile radius of Blackrock, for those unable to bring their tree.

Details of registration for this service will be posted on Blackrock Tidy Towns Facebook page. The Tree Shredding is a Sustainability Initiative which means that trees aren’t going to landfill and the material is used as a mulch in the adjacent Blackrock Park. The numbers of trees recycled has grown each year from 200 in 2017 to 350 in 2020.

Upgrade of water pipes on Ecco Road completed

Irish Water have confirmed that they have successfully completed upgrade works to replace old and damaged pipes along the Ecco Road.

The works, which took place along Ecco Road involved the replacement of approximately 250 metres of old, problematic water mains and were delivered in adherence with current HSE and government COVID-19 advice. GMC Utilities Ltd carried out the works on

behalf of Irish Water.

Speaking about the works Matt Thomson, Regional Lead with Irish Water, said “We are proactively operating throughout Louth to track down and repair leaking pipes with our colleagues in Louth County Council. These upgrades are part of a significant investment

by Irish Water to upgrade the water network in Louth. There was a history of bursts and supply disruptions in the Ecco Road area and

successful completion of these works will reduce water interruptions and the amount of clean drinking water lost to leakage. The installation of the new water mains and service connections will also help conserve this precious resource and improve levels of service for homes and businesses in the area. We would like to thank customers for their patience and cooperation as we continue to deliver these vital network improvements

and safeguard the water supply now and into the future”.

Reflecting on the importance of the works for Dundalk, Matt said, “The replacement of these old pipes along Ecco Road will safeguard the water supply and have a positive impact on leakage and the daily lives of the local community. The project will also benefit residential and business customers in the area by improving the water network performance,

reducing disruptions to water supply, reducing leakage rates and unplanned outages when bursts occurred on the existing mains. Completion of these works will also improve operational efficiencies by providing improved water network operation that will require less maintenance in the future. Permanent road reinstatement works will now be carried out in the coming weeks following the successful completion Upgrade of water pipes on the Ecco Road has been completed. of this project.

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Antigen tests should be free states O’Murchú Antigen testing should be more freely and widely available to ease the pressure on the PCR testing system, according to Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Sinn Féin TD said he had been in touch with the HSE in Louth in recent days to raise with them the issue of ‘the overwhelmed’ PCR testing facilities in the county.

He said he was concerned at the ‘rapidly deteriorating’ situation with the Omicron variant ‘rampant right across the State’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said there is ‘unprecedented pressure on the PCR testing system’ and a ‘far greater emphasis’ is needed on antigen testing.

He added that there should be ‘clear and precise guidance’ on the approved brands of antigen tests that people should use.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘We need to use all the tools available to us

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú. to suppress the spread of Omicron.

‘We need to utilise all tools available to us to suppress the spread of Covid-19, so it beggars belief that the government continues to dither when it comes to a public rollout of antigen testing.

‘The first part of that strategy should be to make antigen testing widely accessible and free. The costs of them in

some places locally are prohibitive.

‘These testing and suppression measures must be backed up with clear and unequivocal public health advice on isolating’.

He welcomed the announcement at the weekend by DkIT that in person examinations, due to start in the next few days, have been deferred and moved online. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘It was the

right thing to do; the only possible conclusion’.

He said any decisions about shorter isolation times for front line workers who have Covid 19 ‘needs to put the health of those workers and the safety of patients first and be done in consultation with unions.

Schools, he said, should open as planned, but the government has ‘been found wanting’ when it comes to mitigation measures, such as air filtration, in schools.

He said: ‘School principals are not engineers, they need guidance from government. The tools are there to mitigate the risk to students, teachers and families, and the government should equip schools with everything they need’.

On the wider issue of a TRIPS waiver, which would allow poorer countries to produce the Covid 19 vaccine, Deputy Ó Murchú said variants would continue to appear ‘until everyone is vaccinated’.

During December, the pupils and staff from St. Nicholas’ Monastery N.S. in Dundalk, held a food appeal in aid St. Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen. Included in the picture are some of the pupils and Fr. Maciej Zacharek (representing St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen) with the collected food parcels.

Dundalk moderately littered according to latest IBAL table Dundalk has been dubbed moderately littered for 2021 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).

It is ranked in 28th place out of 40 in the latest survey of towns and cities that showed nationwide litter levels having risen slightly.

Meanwhile, Naas has been crowned Ireland’s cleanest town for 2021 by IBAL. Naas finished ahead of Portlaoise and Ennis to record its first win in the annual rankings.

An Taisce, who conduct the surveys on behalf of IBAL, found every site examined in the Kildare town to be “virtually free of litter”.

The report showed PPE litter at record levels, with an increase in the presence of both masks and gloves.

“It would appear that this litter is accumulating as the pandemic continues, as there remains an understandable reticence to pick up other people’s PPE,” said IBAL

spokesperson Conor Horgan.

“The disposable blue face mask has become a ubiquitous part of the landscape up and down the country. People have not moved to reusable masks and people are not taking care of their masks.”

There was a significant rise in other pandemic-related litter, such as coffee cups, while alcoholrelated litter remained at previous levels despite hospitality reopening and the survey being conducted in winter.

Santa visits Monastery N.S in Ardee.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Credit Union’s 12 Days of Christmas Members’ Monthly Car & Cash Draw Over €45,000 worth of prizes won

Day 1 - Gerard Tumulty €250 Shop Local Voucher.

Day 1 - Derek Callan €250 Shop Local Voucher.

Day 2 - Lima Conachy €250 Shop Local Voucher.

Day 3 - Thomas Murphy €500.

Day 4 - Colette Fegan €500 collected by her sister Pauline Fegan. Day 5 - Eamonn Kelly €1000.

Day 8 - Carmel Reilly €1500.

Day 9 - Dolores Garvey €2500.

Day 10 - Patrick and Mary Finnegan €3000.

Day 12 - Rian Larkin Winner Ford Puma.

Day 11 - Michelle McGivern €5000.

Day 3 - Pauline McManus €500.

Additional winners with no photographs above include: Day 2 - Angela Parkin €250 Shop Local Voucher, Day 6 - James Cassidy €1000, Day 7 - Kenny Sullivan €1000.

Are you in the Draw?

Be in with a chance in 2022 of winning a brand-new car & amazing cash prizes every month.

Pick up an entry form in office or download now from dundalkcu.ie.

Entry only €1 per week (T&Cs apply).

Dundalk Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Decision to move DkIT exams online welcomed by students The decision by DkIT to move exams online and defer them until the 17th of January has been welcomed by students who had expressed worry via their student’s union representatives about Covid-19. The exams were due to start this week in DkIT but students will now sit their exams online from Monday 17th January to Friday 28th of January. DkIT confirmed that the decision was only made a few days ago as they were keeping an eye on public health advice over the Christmas break.

They are hoping that the timetables will stay roughly the same as the original exam schedule.

A message from DkIT Student Union welcomed the news while wishing all students the best of luck in their exams.

“Over the last few weeks, and more so within the last few days, your SU have been working extremely hard to push for the exams to be moved online. We are absolutely delighted to announce after everything that the exams will be moved online, at a later

date. Again, best of luck to all your students with the exams,” read the statement.

The news was also welcomed by Fine Gael senator John McGahon who had been working closely with Student Union President to campaign for the exams to be moved online. Senator McGahon noted that during the current COVID-19 crisis the only sensible option was to move the exams online.

“Between December 28th and 30th, we have seen Covid-19 case numbers grow exponentially”

from 10,853 to 16,959 to 21,847 per day. All the while, DKIT is still expecting students to sit exams in person. The sensible and responsible thing to do would be to move them online.”

I accept that there will be difficulties in moving the exams online. An in-person exam is completely different from an open book online exam, I also accept that external exam validation will also be a challenge.

However, time and time again, the pandemic has upended our best laid plans and I have written to DKIT

Management asking them to outline their contingency plans if in person exams cannot take place.”

“I have been in close contact with President of DKIT Students Union Christopher O’Neill and several students and despite an active campaign before Christmas asking for the exams to be moved online, the position of DKIT remains that the exams should be held in person.”

“If the exams are held in person, we should consider students who are currently self-isolating or those

who may have contracted Covid-19 while taking the exams and as a result, they will then have to repeat these exams in August.

Many students have job opportunities and summer plans lined up that will have to be altered to sit an exam in August. If you fail an exam, then you should absolutely have to repeat it in August. However, catching Covid-19 during the peak of the pandemic is not akin to failing an exam.

“I have also asked DKIT Management to confirm if some flexibility could be

provided to students where they could sit the exams at an earlier date in the summer.

“It is incumbent on DKIT to accept that case numbers are too high to conduct in person exams and to rearrange them either online or in person at a later date.

Young people have made many sacrifices during this pandemic and have been excellent throughout. We should be making life as easy as possible for them and not forcing them to sit an in person exam while case numbers are so high.”

Fire at one of Dundalk’s New €2,000 support for most popular takeaways Louth apprenticeship employers—McGreehan One of Dundalk’s most popular take-aways will be out of action for the foreseeable future after a fire caused damage to their premises on Clanbrassil Street.

Three fire engines attended the scene at L’Isle de France on the Wednesday before Christmas (22nd) after a fire had started inside the shop. Thankfully nobody was hurt in the incident, but the shop was damaged and according to its owners it will be closed for the foreseeable future.

“Hi all, as you probably know we had a fire in the shop this morning. Thankfully nobody was hurt and everybody who was there got out on time which is what really matters.

We will be out of business for the foreseeable future, but we hope to get back as soon as we can. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and thank you so much to everyone who has sent

kind messages and offered help we really truly appreciate it at this unbearable time.

From Lefty, June, staff & family.

In another blow for takeaway fans around town another of Dundalk’s most popular outlets closed its doors for the final time due to personal reasons.

Long queues outside The Curry House on Dublin Street were a familiar sight almost every weekend but a post from the owner on their social media page last week stated that they are no longer in business.

“Thank you for all your previous custom, especially since 23rd

July 2003 but The Curry House will now close its doors. We have made the decision to close the takeaway for various personal reasons. We are prioritising our health and so bid farewell. It’s been a hell of an eighteen-year ride. Bí curamch agus fan sabhailte,” read the message.

Louth Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed the announcement that the Government is to introduce an annual grant of €2,000 for employers who employ apprentices in one of the 37 apprenticeships which have been established since 2016.

This extends financial support to all apprentice employers for the first time, addressing a key barrier to employer participation in apprenticeship.

Senator McGreehan said: “I am delighted to see a range of important supports being announced for businesses including a €2,000 grant for employers. This will help address the cost

sell alcohol as the move will ‘simply drive consumers across the border into Northern Ireland’.

Minimum pricing for alcohol, agreed by the Cabinet in May, came into effect on Tuesday and means that the minimum price for drinks will be directly related to the amount of alcohol in them. The price will reportedly be 10c per gram of alcohol.

That means the cheapest 750ml bottle of wine will now cost €7.40 (12.5% alcohol) whereas previously it

cost less than €5. Wine with higher alcohol content will reportedly cost at least €7.75.

A 700ml bottle of supermarket gin or vodka now costing between €13 and €14 will now cost €20.71 under the system. A bottle of whiskey will cost at least €22.09.

The minimum price for a 330ml bottle of lager will be €1.12; while it will be €1.78 for a 500ml can of cider; €1.70 for a 500ml can of lager; and €1.66 for a 500ml can of stout. Con-

sumers looking to buy a slab of 24 cans of lager will now pay at least €40.80.

The new law will largely only affect alcohol sold in off-licences, shops, and supermarkets. MUP is reportedly not a tax, but the state will reportedly benefit from the additional VAT it will receive.

Chief executive of the Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association Vincent Jennings said that the move will simply drive consumers across borders and will

only hurt retailers.

“A substantial number of our 1,500 members are based in border counties, all of which will most certainly suffer from people travelling North to buy product at the expense of Irish retailers and the Irish exchequer.

“This will without a doubt lead to difficulties for retailers. It’s not going to be a difficulty for consumers because they will be able to escape it, but the retailers and their shops will most certainly be affected.

The scene outside L’Isle de France just before Christmas.

Senator Erin McGreehan. of employing apprentices and encourage employers to consider apprenticeship as something that is excellent for business and excellent for the learner.”

The new Employer Grant is funded in Budget 2022 and will see annual payments to employers of €2,000 per apprentice per year for those apprenticeships which

are not eligible for the payment of off-thejob training allowances. Its introduction means that, for the first time, employers of all apprentices will now have access to financial support, either through direct payment of allowances to apprentices or through the new employer grant. Effective from January 2022, this annual base grant will be paid to employers who employ apprentices in one of the 37 apprenticeships which have been established since 2016.

The grant will be paid for each eligible registered apprentice during their employment with the company.

Two payment points are planned per yearJune and December.

New alcohol pricing law will ‘drive customers across the border’ Minimum pricing for alcohol came into effect on Tuesday as the government look to ensure that cheap strong alcohol is not available to children and young people at pocket money prices. It is also hoped the law will decrease consumption of alcohol amongst the general population. The law has already been introduced in the likes of Wales and Scotland in recent years. A leading retailer has warned that the new laws will hurt local off licenses and outlets that

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Family Notices 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). S.N.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted.

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

(Never known to fail). K.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 Fa-ther sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer s for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted.

(Never known to fail). P.W.

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). F.B.

T s NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART nDear Heart of Jesus, in the past I -asked you for many favours This etime, I ask for this special favour .(mention it). Take it, dear Heart eof Jesus and place it within your sown broken heart, where your Fanther sees it. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, e not mine. Amen. Say this prayer sfor 3 days. Promise publication mand favours will be granted. t(Never known to fail). M.W. e

Our Weekly Deadline For Family Notices is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication.

Contact Noeleen for further information.

Tel 042 9320888

House prices in Louth rise by almost 10% in 2021

r

e

y THE average price of a house in Co Louth stands -at €249,525, a year-on-year increase of 9.6 per cent, according to the latest Daft.ie -report.

In Louth, prices in the final tthree months of 2021 were 10 per cent higher than a year previously, compared to a rise of 8 per cent seen a year ago.

The average price of a home is now 96% above its lowest point. Housing prices nationwide rose by 7.7 per cent on average during 2021.

The average price nationwide in the final quarter of 2021 was €290,998, up 0.6% on the third quarter of 2021.

Fewer than 11,500 homes were listed for sale on Decem-

Quay Athletic Awards Quay Athlectic U10s recent presentation night saw Rory Murphy on the left get the “Most improved player of the year” and Conall Flynn getting the nod for “Player of the year”.

ber 1, the lowest total recorded since July 2006, when online advertising was still emerging. This represents a fall of one quarter, year-on-year.

Commenting on the report, its author Ronan Lyons, economist at Trinity College Dublin, said: “Inflation in listed prices continues to cool from its mid-year peak.

“Nonetheless, at nearly 8% for the year, it remains stubbornly high. This reflects a combination of unusually strong demand and on-going weak supply.

“Demand for homes to buy, which had been strong anyway from the mid-2010s, has received an unexpected boost during the covid19 pandemic,

with prospective buyers able to tap into ‘accidental’ savings, as expenditure fell during the lockdowns.”

He added: “Meanwhile, both new and second-hand supply remain weaker than expected before the pandemic.

“While the pandemic has changed some particulars, the general health of the housing market is largely unchanged – it is one characterised by weak supply in the face of strong demand.

“For that reason, additional supply – not just of homes for sale but also of market and social rental housing – remains key to solving Ireland’s chronic housing shortage.”

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

special 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.

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

FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings.

Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-6751229.

Building Services, 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.

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

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. 086 818 4827.

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

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.

Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633.

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.

Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www.coachingwithesther.com.

Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

Fifi’s Alterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 0118728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service.

Open Mon—Wed 9.30—5.30pm, Thur & Fri 9.30—6pm & Sat 10-2pm.

J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775.

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

CD Logs—Kiln Dried Ash/Oak & Birch, Weekly Deliveries to Dundalk & surrounding areas. Newry Co. Down Mob 00 44 77 6040 3254 or 048 30269632 www.cdlogs.com.

SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words.

042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

WHITE RADIATOR COVER—White radiator cover for sale. 172cm x 19cm x 82cm. Never used, still in box. Contact 083-1161-297.

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 087-225-9799.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

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 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 work - marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK—Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES— Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.

tuition

MATHS GRINDS—Leaving and junior certificate. All levels. One on one tuition with an experienced tutor.

Phone/text 083 094 1872.

planning

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Dundalk RFC, intend to apply for full planning permission for development at the site known as the “Dundalk RFC” at Mill Road, Dundalk, County Louth.

The development will consist of a new front boundary wire mesh fencing and wire mesh entrance gate along the Mill Road Dundalk including all associated site development works and landscaping. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

ADVERTISE in our classifieds

to over 50,000 readers from only €5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

16

Blinds

Building Contractors

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Flooring

CCTV/Alarms

Forklifts

Builders Supplies

BUY IT THROUGH A

CLASSIFIED

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Health & Safety

Wheelie Bins

FREE COMP AN AUDIT Y S

Health & Safety Made Easy • EHS Management Consultants • H&S Training and Risk Audits • Accident Investigation Management • Project Management • Conflict Management

• Manual Handling Training • Hygiene, Food Safety and HACCP Training • Covid, Drug and Alcohol Testing • Occupational Health Service

Growing Beyond Ltd, Haggardstown.

Phone: 042 9326598; 087 7993582 info@growingbeyond.ie.

For all your Health & Safety, Occupational Health Support and Food Safety needs

Shane McGuinness, GMIOSH Msc PgDip(OSH) PgDip(Food)

Dundalk, Co. Louth

Wheel Bin Collections

Domestic & Commercial Waste, Recycle, Organic & Glass Collections ALL A REA COVER S ED

Sign Up On-Line at www.aceenvironmental.ie Or Phone Office: T&C’s 042-932 2594 Apply

Evergreen café in the Grammar school

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Also Domestic & Commercial 042-932 2594 Skip hire: 3-40 cubic yards Tel: or email info@aceenvironmental.ie Visit us @ www.aceenvironmental.ie or email us @ info@aceenvironmental.ie NWCPO-12-06461-04

Established in 1995

Metals

DUNDALK, CO. LOUTH

WHEEL BIN CLEANING Domestic & ALL AREAS SIGN UP FOR 12 Commercial Wheel COVE MONTHS TO AVAIL OF R ED Bin Cleaning OUR SPECIAL OFFER!!

Phone us on 042-9377611 or

089-4092721 T&C’s Apply www.spongebin.ie or email us @ spongebinwash@outlook.ie

Windows Plumbing Full Range of Colours • Extensive Range of Designs • Irish Made Fully Certified • 'A' Rated Security Windows & Doors

All our products are as standard

Senator Windows Dundalk

Opening Hours Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2

After hours by appointment

SELL IT THROUGH A

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siness Town in Bu wn Keep Your To Business in Keep Your For a free no obligation quotation Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Fax. 042 9333514 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Rose Clarke, Anna Copas, Gracie Hanna and Jing Qi Wu. Absent: Amanda Kpaduwa.

A group of Transition Year Enterprise students have set up their very own Café in Dundalk Grammar School.

Evergreen Cafe is open for business every Wednesday afternoon in the school from 2.30 til 5.00 pm. Serving staff and students a choice of coffees, teas, hot chocolate, and a selection of home bakes, the objective is to provide a setting to relax, meet up and chat, take time out to be and refresh, and restore that equilibrium that gets lost in the hustle and bustle of a busy school day.

Slowly but surely, the girls intend to bring in added dimensions to the experience of being in their Cafe. Their wish-list includes having live music; a selection of books for reading; magazines and newspapers; cards, drafts and chess for those who wish to play; a space for art and drawing; and some comfy couches for just chilling. All in time, but for now the focus is on getting the basics right, delicious hot drinks and tasty home bakes. Their Chocolate Rocky Road is just sumptuous, and their latte is the perfect brew.

The girls admit they have a lot to learn and still much to improve on before they get it all right. But they have made a good start. Each of them has undertaken a barista training course. After much research they entered a contract with a service provider to supply them a stateof-the-art coffee-making

machine. They undertook further training on the use of this machine. They sampled their product to the market in the school, before declaring themselves competent to open for business. The quality of their range of coffees suggests they trained well.

Rose Clarke is Head Baker. She has been running her own Bakery from home supplying local customers. So, it made sense that she join the Cafe and bring her baking skills on board. Anna Copas is overall manager, and, in particular, she manages the financial affairs.

She also played a prominent role in securing the contract for them to be supplied the equipment. The remaining members are Gracie Hanna, Amanda Kpaduwa and Jing Qi Wu. They are all good friends, and nothing has happened in their business relationships to put a strain on their personal friendships. As the saying goes, it’s business, not personal, and don’t mix the two.

Five weeks in, and sales and customers are gradually increasing. The sit-down cafe culture takes time to get across and be embraced.

Takeaway sales are strong, but their pride and joy is to grow the sit-down Coffee Shop. With so much talk about mental health in today’s society, these enterprising girls offer one possible solution. Take time out and visit Evergreen Cafe on a Wednesday. You deserve it!

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

Eugene Quigley Memorial Awards

Tain Photographic Group held its annual ‘Eugene Quigley Memorial Cup” which is a competition for Intermediate group members. Ray Lawrence being presented with his certificate for 1st place by Phil Quigley

tifipresented with his cer Bernard Crawley being ey. igl il Qu cate for 2nd place by Ph

Tricky winter driving conditions Ground frost, wet leaves and a blindingly low sun are the natural occurrences most likely to cause drivers to be involved in a near miss or a collision during winter.

Ground frost or icy patches Before you set out on the roads, make sure you’ve done all you can to make your journey as safe as possible. Check your tyres regularly, as you rely on them for grip on the roads. Clear your windows, mirrors, and headlights of any ice and carry a screen scraper and de-icer in your vehicle.

Remember to never pour very hot or boiling water on the windscreen and clear the whole window of ice or frost so your peripheral vision is clear.

One of the most important things you need to do while driving on icy roads is slow down. Allow extra time for journeys, it might take you a little longer to get there. In icy conditions it can take ten times longer to stop your vehicle, meaning it’s essential to give yourself extra space around other road users.

Motorways, national roads, and regional roads are more likely to be gritted than local

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

roads or secondary routes.

Wet leaves Drivers are advised to take extreme care when roads are slick, as conditions are very difficult. When leaves become wet on the road, the driving conditions are similar to driving on ice. If temperatures drop and the leaves freeze, it is even more dangerous.

Your vehicle is likely to skid and you could possibly lose control. As well as this, leaves often cover the painted road markings, making it difficult to know the locations of the lanes.

Drivers should pay extra attention to vulnerable road users such as cyclists, particularly if their bike is visibly tilted rounding a corner.

Sun glare Sun glare is a big risk. it can be near impossible to see at times thanks to eye level glare, especially if your windscreen is dirty.

Have a pair of sun glasses in the car and make sure the windscreen clean to cope with low level glare on clearer days.

Keep your speed down, put on your shades and keep your distance from the car in front.

Fog is another weather condi-

042 9331515/086 2559201

The winner of this years competition is Ray Lawrence,

cate sented with his certifi John McCourt being pre igley for 3rd place by Phil Qu

Bernard Crawley (2nd), Ray Lawrence (1st), and John Mc Court (3rd).

tion common in Ireland during winter – particularly inland and at higher altitudes.

You would benefit from taking the time to check your car’s handbook to learn about the lights and the various different settings. Use your dipped headlights at all times plus your windscreen wipers and demisters.

Familiarize yourself with your front and rear fog lights and use them only when appropriate. Only drive as fast as conditions allow and maintain a greater distance between you and the car in front. If the road has street lights on you probably don’t need to use your fog lights.

Be able to stop within your range of visibility, this is particularly important on motorways and dual carriageways.

Don’t accelerate to get away from a vehicle that is too close behind you. Check your mirrors before you slow down.

At a junction with limited visibility, stop, wind down the window, and listen for traffic.

When you are sure it is safe to emerge, do so without hesitation. Pausing too long puts you in the path of oncoming traffic.

By Anna Cullen, AA Ireland

Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 6th January 2022