Worth their weight in GOLD!
Tidy Towns
By Paul Byrne
TIDY Towns volunteers from across Louth celebrated an impressive haul of awards – including four gold medals – at the SuperValu Tidy Towns Awards ceremony, held in Croke Park on Friday afternoon.
Blackrock were the big winners of the day picking up a Gold Medal while also being named the ‘Tidiest Small Town in Ireland’.
The town scored an excellent 385 points with the adjudicator impressed with the many fine developments that have made the village a fine place in which to live and visit.
”It is always a pleasure to visit Blackrock whether for business or pleasure and this year’s adjudication visit was no exception. Thank you for Blackrock’s continued participation since 1993 in the SuperValu National Tidy Towns Competition, it has presented a wonderful opportunity to witness the many fine developments that have made the village a fine place in which to live and visit; achievements to date are exemplary.”
Blackrock were one of four gold medal winners from Louth with Dundalk, Drogheda and Dromiskin also picking up Gold. This was Dromiskin’s first ever gold medal and a testament to all the hard work that has been put in locally throughout the year by volunteers.
The report for the village described it as ‘a beautiful village with a multi-faceted heritage which is effectively presented to the local and wider communities in creative and informative ways!’
Continued on Page 2
The Blackrock Tidy Towns Committee accept the award for ‘Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town’ at the 2024 SuperValu Tidy Town Awards which were held in Croke Park last Friday.
Local Tidy Towns volunteers celebrate as county celebrate seven medals
Continued from Page 1
Dundalk increased their mark by 14 points from last year earning a very impressive 371 points (four more than Drogheda). The adjudicator described Dundalk as a ‘very vibrant and youthful town’.
“Dundalk appears to be a very vibrant and youthful town where everyone plays their part in maintaining the environment to the highest standard for both people and pollinators. The commitment to making the town inclusive for all is excellent and we look forward to your progress in this respect,”
read the concluding remarks for the Dundalk report.
Also drawing a huge cheer at the awards show were volunteers from Tallanstown and Carlingford who secured silver and bronze medals respectively.
Speaking to the Dundalk Leader, Dundalk Tidy Towns chairperson, Helen Byrne was understandably thrilled following confirmation that Dundalk had received a Gold Medal at this year’s awards (their 14th in total since forming in 2006)
“It was nervewracking as you don’t know what you are going to get until they put the
names of the award winners on the screen. They do them in reverse order in each section so when we didn’t see our names on the screen for the Bronze and Silver medals we knew we’d retained our gold,” explained a delighted Helen.
“Only three committee members are allowed to travel to the awards so myself, Trio-
na Tuite and Bernadetee Kellett were in Croke Park representing Dundalk Tidy Towns.
“It’s nice to get some recognition for all the hard work our committee members and volunteers do. We have eight on the committee and about twenty volunteers as well as Tús workers who do great work keeping our town clean. This is our
14th gold medal since we began in 2006 and we also have a silver. All the medals can be viewed in the lobby of the museum in Dundalk. Without the support from the fantastic people of Dundalk we couldn’t achieve this for our town so a big thank you to everybody for all their words of encouragement throughout the year,” added Helen.
Blackrock named as the
‘Tidiest
THERE were huge celebrations in Blackrock on Friday as the scenic seaside village was named as the Tidiest Small Town in Ireland for the second time in their history. The concluding remarks in the adjudicators report praised the overall appearance of Blackrock citing it as ‘impressive with a nicely presented built environment and a well-managed natural environment catering for a wide range of activities whilst protecting and promoting the natural environment and its biodiversity’.
Following the awards, Blackrock were featured on popular RTE programme Nationwide with committee members speaking about the award they had just received.
When the Dundalk Leader called com-
Small Town’ in Ireland
mittee member Mary Murtagh on Tuesday morning she was out picking rubbish on the streets which probably outlines the dedication needed to earn
gold medals at the Tidy Towns Awards. Mary is on the committee of both the Blackrock and Dromiskin Tidy Towns as well as being chair of Louth Tidy Towns
Together which aims to professionalise and unite the tidy towns movement in Louth.
Taking a break from her litter picking Mary told the Dundalk Lead-
er that she was delighted that Louth had done so well at the awards.
“I represent most of the Tidy Towns groups through Louth Tidy Towns Together so obviously I am delighted so many areas in the county did so well.
Blackrock’s success hasn’t come along by accident. This is the result of years of hard work by a very dedicated group of committee members and volunteers. I was thrilled to see them on Nationwide and to come out on top in such a very competitive region is testament to the wonderful work being done locally.
Blackrock Park in particular is an absolute credit to all the volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure it is looking so fabulous all year around. It is a haven for wildlife and biodiversity
and there is also a children’s playground and adults exercise equipment which means it is a park for everybody to utilize.
As a member of Dromiskin Tidy Towns I was overjoyed that we received our first ever gold medal and once again I would like to thank the people of Dromiskin for helping us keep the village clean.
“What we need to fiocus on now is to help spread the message to stop people litterng. If we didn’t have to spend so much time picking up litter we could devote more time to other projects. We have adequate numbers of bins throughout the county so we have to get people to start using them each and every time they are disposing litter,” urged Mary.
Decision not to give funding to Louth GAA stadium project an ‘absolute disgrace’
THERE was disappointment in Louth GAA circles when they failed to benefit from Monday’s announcement of 35 major sports projects nationally which are to receive funding to the tune of €173m.
Louth GAA had been hoping for funding via the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) for their Stadium Project which has been beset by delays
and funding issues over the last few years. It has been reported that they were looking for just over €7m to go towards the cost of the new stadium which will be located at the Inner Relief Road.
The cost to build the new stadium is €23.5m. Funding of €14.8m from the Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) has been secured already. Independent candi-
date for the forthcoming General Election called the decision not to award funding for the Louth GAA Stadium project, an ‘absolute disgrace’.
The General Election Candidate said that, “Like a large majority of people I am in total disbelief that this project has been left out of its Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF)”.
To see such a vital and
real project that would be of such tremendous benefit to the county being given access to zero funding is extremely concerning.
To see 35 announcements made and hailed as a great result whilst this much needed project has been denied funding is simply not acceptable. Why have we radio silence from government reps on this project, you can’t
take the credit for some projects and hide from those let down.
I am demanding a senior government representative or a government Oireachtas member for the county issues a statement in respect of this matter, the GAA and the People of the County at least should expect to be afforded that courtesy,” stated Cllr Callan.
When asked to com-
ment on the decision not to award Louth GAA any funding for the stadium project, current chairman of the Louth County Board, Sean McClean said that the Louth County Board were currently in talks with the Department at the moment and they should have a clearer picture of what if any funding is coming down the line for the project.
Dundalk Tidy Towns Comittee members Trena Tuite, Helen Byrne (Chair) and Bernadette Kellett attended the awards ceremony.
DAVID
Blackrock Tidy Towns Committe members at the SuperValu Tidy Town Awards in Croke Park last Friday with Chairman John Horan (right).
Sinn Féin’s Antóin Watters to run as third Candidate in Louth
SINN Féin in Louth has announced that popular North Louth Councillor Antóin Watters will run as a third candidate in the constituency alongside incumbent Ruaíri Ó Murchú TD and Cllr Joanna Byrne from Drogheda. Speaking today, Cllr Watters said:
“When I was asked by the Party to run as a candidate I didn’t hesitate. We must give people a clear choice between the status quo and a Party that will deliver change. We must be bold, we must be brave, we must increase our seats if we are to form a government and I am honoured to play my part in that badly needed change.
“It is incredible that successive Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael Governments supported by their cohorts in the Labour Party and the Green Party have consistently and systematically been failing us as a State and get away with it. The people can’t take any more and the squandering and waste of public money is unforgivable: €635,000 for a bike shed, €1,000,000 for a security hut, the Children’s Hospital to name a few.
“The final straw for me was the allocation of €9,000,000 (9 million euro) in Budget 2025 for mobile phone pouches to keep students off their phones during school hours. They then insulted people’s intelligence by selling this waste as ‘positive well-being and mental health’ as the latest figures for
those waiting for CAMHS shows 695 people in Louth of whom 115 have been waiting over 52 weeks. Why don’t we tell students to switch off their phones or keep them in their lockers and invest that €9 million in CAMHS?”
Cllr Watters who is a father of two young children said he “despaired of their future if things don’t change. I have 3 brothers and all of them have been forced to emigrate and I certainly don’t want to lose my own children to emigration so we need a progressive housing and planning policy to allow children born in rural North Louth to stay in their community if they so choose. Sinn Féin has that policy (Housing For All) which includes the building of 60,000 selfbuild rural homes (state-wide) accompanied by meaningful reform of planning laws to solve problems faced by those wanting to build on their own land in their own communities.
“Rural areas like Cooley,
Omeath, Faughart, etc have been ignored and left behind by successive Governments almost to the point of decimation. We had to beg and plead for adequate broadband, we have little or no public transport infrastructure and recently a report from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council (IFAC) detailed the staggering failure of Government to invest in infrastructure across the State. People living in Cooley are not surprised at this: we have lived with Governments’ indifference to us for decades. That’s why Sinn Fein has committed to a Rural Health Commission to deliver health-care, home care and disability services to areas such as Cooley, Faughart and surrounding areas.
“We deserve better and as a Councillor I have worked hard to deliver locally and now I am asking people to support me as I take the next step and go to the Dáil with Ruairí Ó Murchú and deliver on the progressive policies of Sinn Féin.
“I am angry at the empty promises of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Labour and the Greens. I am asking the electorate to also get angry and stand up and say ‘enough! No more!’ and vote for change. This election is a clear choice between Government parties that are standing over their abysmal record or a Sinn Féin government committed to delivering change.”
Government’s Covid 19 evaluation decision falls short for Dealgan House families
THE establishment of the government’s review of the Covid 19 pandemic, announced yesterday, ‘will not give Dealgan House families the answers they have been searching for’, a Dundalk TD has said.
In response to the government’s decision to set up an ‘evaluation’ of the State’s handling of the pandemic, Sinn Féin’s Ruairí Ó Murchú said it ‘falls far short of what Dealgan families, and others, have been led to expect’.
He said: ‘In the final days of this government, it is announced that instead of a proper inquiry into what happened during the Covid 19 pandemic, which would be able to compel witnesses and documents, we are told that an ‘independent evaluation’ would take place.
‘That is not going to cut the mustard with many of the families of the 22 people who died in terrible circumstanc-
es in Dealgan House nursing home in Dundalk in April and May 2020.
‘For more than four years, I have walked alongside these families as they showed great courage and tenacity, often in the face of State obfuscation, to try themselves to get to the truth of how and why their loved ones died.
‘It is really disappointing to hear of
an evaluation, when it should have been a proper inquiry. Where will the truth be found if witnesses, particularly those who are now private citizens, cannot be compelled to testify?
‘Where will the lessons, that need to be learned, be found? Where will the forum be for families to tell the truth about their loved ones’ final days?
‘At the Sinn Féin Ard
Fhéis in September, my motion, that called for an independent inquiry into Dealgan House nursing home, along with the enactment of adult safeguarding and care partnership legislation, was passed.
‘The government has ignored the strong calls for an inquiry and have dragged their heels on the safeguarding and care partnership work’.
22 people died in Dealgan House between April and May 2020.
Cllr Antóin Watters.
Check out the National Enterprise Hub A new resource for Louth’s Small and Medium Enterprises
THE new National Enterprise Hub is an innovative online platform designed to support the growth of small and medium enterprises across Ireland. The team at Local Enterprise Office Louth invite local businesses to check out this “one-stop shop” for accessing essential information about the range of supports, services, and funding opportunities available to them.
Sarah Mallon of Local Enterprise Office Louth explains “The National
Enterprise Hub simplifies the journey for business owners seeking guidance, bringing all relevant local and national resources together in one place. Through the platform, you can explore options for mentorship, training, and financial supports tailored to your specific business needs. From start-up advice to scaling up for export, the Hub helps Louth’s businesses at every stage of their growth, signposting them to the tools and assistance that can make a real difference.”
For businesses eager to stay competitive, the Hub offers highlights supports available in digitalisation, sustainable practices, and financial management. It also highlights essential funding pathways, including information on grant applications and loan schemes for those seeking financial support.
Sarah concludes “This new National Enterprise Hub is accessible from anywhere, making it ideal for busy entrepreneurs who need sup-
port at their fingertips. Business owners can connect with advisors, access resources, and keep informed on new and evolving supports, all through one platform. Designed to be userfriendly and comprehensive, we encourage local businesses to check out the new National Enterprise Hub.” For more information visit www. neh.gov.ie, and, remember that the team at Local Enterprise Office Louth are always there to support your business journey.
The Castle Players need YOU!
AFTER their huge success with The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish there was only time for a short break to catch their breath before the Castle Players began preparations for their next production. This time the group are taking on the challenge of James Joyce’s celebrated short story ‘The Dead’. This will be a completely new and original adaptation by the group and it’s the perfect opportunity for new
people to get involved.
Perhaps you want to try your hand at acting for the first time or maybe you want to return to it after many years away. Maybe you’d be more interested in gaining some experience backstage with things like, stage manager, set design, costumes, lighting, sound, or even getting involved in the promotional side. All of these are vital to putting on any production.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to
look behind the curtain and see what all the fuss is about, now’s your chance.
The first script meeting will take place on Wednesday 13th of November at 7:30 in Clan na Gael GFC meeting rooms. So, why not pop along and have a nosey. For more information contact Pat McKenna on 087 160 5319 or Nigel Clinton on 086 077 9639. Or check out Castle Players Facebook page.
The Castle Players are looking for new people to get involved in their drama group.
Sarah Mallon, Local Enterprise Office Louth.
St Louis bid a fond farewell to Mary
SAINT Louis Secondary school in Dundalk bid an emotional farewell to their popular (now former) Deputy Principal, Mary Gilmore last week.
Mary’s first day as a teacher in the school took place almost forty years ago in 1986 when she started doing some voluntary work through the North East Youth services as she looked to get some experience. She would later do a year subbing in the Louis in Carrick before taking a permanent role in St Louis Dundalk in 1991.
According to Mary she has loved every minute of her time in the school and will miss the buzz around the school now that she has retired.
“I always loved the fact that the Louis was such a close knit community. Girls felt comfortable coming to the teachers with any problems they may have had and there was just a real closeness I feel between students and teachers.
“The school also allowed me to personally grow and gain experience in many different roles down through the years. I have been a TY co-ordinator, editor of the school magazine as well as becoming Deputy Principle in recent years.
“I think the role of a teacher
has changed quite a bit over the last thirty years or so and I feel that nowadays there is a lot more co-operation between teachers and the Department of Education. I did a lot of work with Padriag Kirk to learn about the new junior cycle curriculum that was brought in a few years ago and while challenging I found that very rewarding.
“I have always had a real thirst for knowledge and in recent years
Seán to launch brand new collection of poems in Basement Gallery
LOCAL poet Seán Brannigan is getting ready to launch a brand new book of poetry entitled ‘Where Beauty Streams’ before Christmas. It will be launched in the Basement Gallery, Town Hall, on Thursday November 7th at 6.45 pm. This will be Seán’s fifth collection of poems having previously released A Silver Lining in 1987, An Owl Calls in 2010 as well as Oriel Observations 1 and 2 in more recent years. Below is a poem taking from Seán’s forthcoming collection of poems.
Soul Partner
Beauty and truth, friend of my soul are gifts which match your smile. The music played within your heart shines softly from your eyes. Along the rugged paths I take are tears of joy and pain companioned by a loneliness my words seldom explain. But then your welcome of sunshine brightens and warms my world ; Friend of my soul, I wish you well and offer you my love.
I completed a post grad diploma in Educational Management. I know I have retired now but I have no doubt I will find something new to get my teeth stuck into because I just love learning new things,” stated Mary.
“Since Michelle Dolan came in as acting principle and I was made acting deputy a few years ago we’ve gone through a lot together. We had the well-publicised school fire and then Covid to deal with but Michelle is a fantastic organiser and she was a pleasure to work alongside.
“I have spent over half my life teaching and of course I will miss it. I still love meeting past pupils and finding out what they are doing now and I will certainly miss the buzz of the school and all the staff including ancillary staff like those who work in the canteen and caretakers etc. I like traveling and I do a bit of cycling and walking and I am a member of Felda so I will have a bit more time now to make use of that membership. I also love this community and I will look into doing some voluntary work to give back to this great town,” stated Mary.
Mary’s retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy as a teacher, mentor, leader and friend to all will live on.
Emily wins Rotary Youth Leadership Competition
DUNDALK Grammar School student Emily Liffey has been named as this year’s winner of the Dundalk Schools stage of the Rotary Youth Leadership competition. She will now go forward to the regional finals in Navan in the coming weeks. The Rotary Youth Leadership competition commenced in 1992. The competition is for secondary school students age 16 to 18 and is open to male and female students.
24 winning students from all over Ireland are selected for their leadership qualities and are sent to Strasbourg to the Euro school day where fellow students from all over Europe sit in the parliament and debate topics of special interest. In total nine local students were in attendance for the award ceremony which was held in the Ballymascanlon Hotel on Monday afternoon. They were Emily Liffey from Dundalk
Grammar School, James McKeown from Bush Post Primary School, Julia Van Coller from St Vincents, Laura Macartain from St Mary’s College (Marist), Oisin Kelly from Coláiste Ris, Kathleen McKeever from Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Callum Boyle from De La Salle College, Alice Adeyemo from Coláiste Chú Chulainn and Roisin Caraher from St Louis Secondary School. All students were congratulated by Dun-
Lighthouse Church to host ‘Christmas at the Movies’
THE Lighthouse Church in Dundalk are a religious group who meet in The Venue in the Imperial Hotel every Sunday morning at 11am. Next month sees the return of their popular series of talks each Sunday based on the theme “Christmas at the Movies” Each Sunday they will unpack a movie and share a message of hope to help people navigate the challenges of life.
Everybody is welcome and there will be free coke and popcorn for the kids. According to Pastor Patrick O’Loughlin the whole idea of the event is to find a redeeming message in the movies and have a discussion around those themes.
“We will have ‘Christmas at the Movies’ for three consecutive Sunday’s, starting on the 1st of December at The Venue in the Imperial Hotel at 11am. No prior booking is necessary and anybody can just turn up on the day. We will
shown by the LIghthouse Church.
show a different movie each week and the three movies chosen this year are Gran Turismo, King Richard and Walk the Line. We will show clips from the movie each week and summarise what just happened and contrast that to how God could be speaking to us. For example, last year we played clips from The Greatest Showman and discussed themes around
family. There will be tea and coffee afterwards and popcorn and coke for he kids. Our church currently has about 80 members and myself and my wife came to Dundalk in 2014 and we have loved being here over the last decade.
It’s a great town and there is plenty to do for both young and old. We have a daughter studying film production in
DkIT so it’s great that she can study what she loves without having to leave Dundalk. We will have a traditional Carol Service on the 22nd of December in The Venue to help celebrate Christmas,” added Patrick.
“Christmas at The Movies’ will take place on the 1st, 8th and 15th of December in The Venue at the Imperial Hotel. All are welcome.
dalk Rotary President Michael Staunton while Grammar School teacher Alan Norton thanked the Rotary Club for their continued support of local students via this competition. He also paid tribute to Paddy Williams a former Dundalk Rotarian who died in August.
In 1992 from day one Peter Quinn of the Imperial Hotel sponsored the competition and did so until the Imperial Hotel was sold with his
brother Oliver Quinn of Ballymascanlon House hotel picking up the baton of sponsorship. Fifteen years ago Dundalk Credit Union also joined as sponsors for the competition and David Donnelly and Naomi O’Donohue were in attendance to represent them on Monday afternoon. The Dundalk Rotarians very much appreciate the two sponsors as without them the competition would not be in existence.
1—On Nov 5th 1605, what plot was arranged?
2—”Every little helps” is the slogan for which supermarket?
3—What is the largest gland in the human body?
4—Who did Mohammed Ali defeat in the 1974 bout known as “The Rumble in the Jungle”?
5—Known locally by some as ‘The White House’ where in Dundalk would you find Mount Oliver Convent?
6—In 1957, what was the name of the first dog sent into space?
7—What are the four US States that begin with the letter “A”?
8—Which car manufacturer was the
first to introduce seat belts as standard in their cars?
9—Where in Dublin would you find Tolka Park, home of recently crowned League of Ireland champions, Shelbourne?
10—Can you name the two-time Eurovision Song Contest winner who was born in Australia in 1954?
The Stinker: • Which two New York boroughs are located on Long Island?
—THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS—
2—Tesco, 3—Liver, 4—George Foreman, 5—Just before the Ballymascanlon Hotel if you are driving out of town towards Newry. 6—Laika, 7—Alabama, Alaska, Arizona & Arkansas. 8—Volvo, 9— Drumcondra, 10—Johnny Logan. Stinker: Brooklyn & Queens.
up
to
1—Gunpowder Plot, Guy
Principal Michelle Dolan bids farewell to her Deputy, Mary Gilmore.
Fawkes and fellow Catholic conspirators attempted
blow
Parliament and assassinate James I of England.
Andrea Flynn (Events manager, Ballymac), Michael Staunton Dundalk Rotary Club President, Emily Liffey (Winning student from Grammar), Alan Norton (Grammar School teacher) and David Donnelly (Dundalk Credit Union)
Last year Indiana Jones was one of the movies
Disability Section of Sinn Féin’s Healthcare Plan doesn’t add up—McGreehan
FIANNA Fáil Spokesperson on Disability in the Seanad, Erin McGreehan, has said the Disability section of Sinn Féin’s Healthcare Plan does not add up.
In the Plan, the party say they would “double the number of Personal Assistance hours over a term of Government, provide an additional 1.5 million disability home care hours, provide over 3,000 additional residential places, deliver on de-congregation commitments, significantly expand day services, and double investment in respite services over the term of government.”
They also say they would allocate €829 million to Disability, including Personal Assistance and Home Support Children’s Disability Services, Respite and Day Services.
However, McGreehan said this doesn’t stack up.
She said: “Sinn Féin’s plan allocates €829 million for Disability, including Personal Assistance and Home Support Children’s Disability Services and Respite and Day Services.
“Their plan also pledges to provide over 3,000 additional residential places.
“However, the average cost of a residential service for one person is over €266,936, according to the HSE and that is not including capital costs.
“Sinn Féin’s promise to provide over 3,000 additional residential
Senator Erin McGreehan.
places, at a cost of €266,936, would total over €800 million.
“This means that the party believes it can deliver all of its other disability commitments for €29 million, which simply does not add up considering the scale of the other promises it lays out in the Plan.
“This is, simply, fantasy maths and severely undermines a key area of their Health policy, further demonstrating that the party is simply not fit for government.”
A Weekend Full Of Wonder, Magic and Light
GET ready for the most enchanting weekend of the year at Frostival Winter Festival in Dundalk. The highlight of the weekend is the iconic ‘Carnival of Light’ parade which, in a change from previous years, will take place on Sunday 17th of November at 5.30pm.
Join us for a weekend full of festive fun on November 16th & 17th including the magical Christmas Light Switch-On, Family Fun Fair, Christmas Markets and much more.
The Carnival of Light parade will start from the Green Church and weave its way through the streets like a winter fairy tale come to life with the Dancing Christmas Stars, Sugar Plum Fairy, Nutcracker prince spinning fire, a flying fairground horse, giant snowflakes, a Snowman cycles in a sparkling snowstorm and Santa high above the crowd on his magic bicycle!
The parade route will illuminate the town centre on a magical journey for spectators to enjoy as it passes through Clanbrassil Street, Crowe Street, Francis Street and Park Street, turning at Oscar’s corner and finishing up at the Longwalk SC.
An exciting new addition on Frostival Saturday, and a must see, is the Toy Box Wonders performance taking place from 5pm to 7pm at Market Square, a magical children’s animated live show
celebrating some of our favourite childhood characters!
The Fun Fair and Christmas Markets return over 2 days at Market Square, Saturday from 11am to 6pm and Sunday 11am - 7pm, the perfect place to discover delicious food and bespoke festive gifts.
On Sunday the popular Christmas Light Show will once again return transforming Market Square into a shimmering canvas of festive images and other surprises! These awe-inspiring illuminations will take place daily from 4pm over the festive season.
Town Centre Commercial Manager, Martin McElligott, said “Frostival is a community event bringing everyone together to celebrate the start of the festive season. Each year we endeavour to enhance the existing festival and create new and exciting experiences for all to enjoy.
“We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation
to our commercial sponsor Dundalk Credit Union, and our civic sponsor Louth County Council, for their kind support and sponsorship of this year’s events. It would not be possible to organise and deliver a festival of this magnitude without their generosity and commitment.”
Dundalk Credit Union are delighted to support Frostival again this year. We look forward to seeing the town being captivated by the magic of Frostival and to kick off the magic of Christmas on the streets of Dundalk said David Donnelly, Head of Marketing and Communications at Dundalk Credit Union. “With the Carnival of Light parade as the crown jewel, Dundalk’s streets will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with enchanting sights, sounds, and experiences for everyone. From the iconic Christmas Light Switch-On to the return of our family-friendly Fun Fair and festive Christmas Markets,
Frostival offers something for all ages to enjoy. We can’t wait to see Dundalk come alive and to share this unforgettable weekend with our community and visitors alike, at Dundalk Credit Union community is at the heart of everything we do.
Joe McGuinness, Temporary Chief Executive, Louth County Council said “Louth County Council is delighted to support the Frostival Winter Festival, a highlight in the calendar of events being run every year by Dundalk BIDS. The festival is an exciting part of the Christmas season in Dundalk and greatly enhances the visitor experience during the festive season. We extend our best wishes to Martin and the team in Dundalk BIDS for a successful Frostival 2024.”
Martin McElligott was also trilled and excited to announce that “The Northern Lights will be making a spectacular Christmas comeback with nine unforgettable festive shows, over three evenings, on the 6th, 7th and 8th of December.
“This state-of-the-art audiovisual installation features up to 200,000 individual points of light and unique decorative symbols exclusively designed to represent the spirit Christmas. Combine this with state-of-the-art technology, choreographed to a rhythm of iconic festive tunes. Save the dates!”
Saint Vincent’s Charity Fun Run
Huge crowds turned out for last year’s Frostival.
Louth Senior Ladies seek to oust current management team
A LOUTH GAA Ladies County Board meeting will take place this evening to try and resolve an explosive row that has erupted between the ladies senior panel and the management team.
An email sent by the Louth Ladies Senior Team to the Chairperson of the Louth County Board and Executive Committee made it clear that they did not want the current management team of Paul Hanlon, Alan Page and Darren Clarke to return for the 2025 season.
That trio have been at the helm since November 2023 and earlier this year they led the Louth Ladies to the All Ireland Junior Football final which they lost to Fermanagh (1-11 to 0-12). Recently, they were reinstated by the executive committee to manage the team for a further two years.
That decision has enraged players who say they will not make themselves available for the 2025 season unless the board engage with them and listen to their concerns over the current management structure.
The email sent by the players to the Louth County Board, listed a number of concerns
Louth ladies say they will walk away if the current management team remain.
from the majority of the squad and made it clear that they would not be happy to see the same management team reinstated for the 2025 season. The results of the vote were as follows; 26 no, 2 unsure, 1 yes. Those concerns included what they saw as ‘Lack of feedback, communication and guidance from management to players.
‘Lack of professionalism displayed by the management team
‘Not utilising grant money allocated to senior team Lack of commitment
‘Not taking on board player concerns and poor player/manager relations.
The players voiced frustration at the recent decision by the executive committee to reinstate the current management team for the next two years. According
to their email they had voiced their frustrations with regards the management team as far back as August and were left astounded that their concerns had not been listened to.
In response to that email a letter from the current management team stated that they had tried to organise a meeting face to face with the ladies team without success. They said they found it ‘disrespectful and immature, that the team were not willing to meet with them as adults and discuss whatever problems they felt they had.
The email stated that the issues and concerns raised by the girls were ‘very vague’ and they defended accusations of lack of feedback, lack of professionalism, not utilising grant money, lack of commitment and not taking on board
player concerns.
The row must be of great concern to Louth County Board who face a mutiny from the Ladies Senior Panel if they insist on keeping the status quo with regards to the current management set up. Chairman of the Louth Ladies Gaelic Football Association Liam O’Neill confirmed that there will be a meeting this evening but stated he would not be commenting until after tonight’s meeting.
“All that I say currently is that there’s a Co. Board meeting on Wednesday evening and all should be decided at that meeting. I am aware of both letters being circulated a)players to better and b)managements response. But currently as I’m sure you can appreciate,we will not be commenting any further until after Wednesday’s meeting,” stated Liam.
Cllr Paula Butterly Calls for Review of Protected Structures to Address Redevelopment Barriers in Louth
FINE Gael Councillor and Louth General Election candidate, Paula Butterly, has tabled a crucial motion at Louth County Council aimed at reviewing the list of protected structures in County Louth. The review seeks to identify buildings that may inhibit redevelopment and contribute to urban decay, impacting both town centres and rural areas.
Cllr Butterly’s motion highlights the pressing issues stemming from the current protections in place, which can inadvertently hinder necessary renovations and development. Many buildings on the Record of Protected Structures are left to deteriorate, with some facades posing safety risks by crumbling onto the streets.
Additionally, in rural areas, planning permissions are often denied for renovations of old farmhouses and other structures due to their protected status, removing valuable housing stock from the market.
“While it is essential to preserve our architectural heritage, we must also consider the practical implications of these protections,” said Cllr Butterly. “If we allow buildings to fall into disrepair because their status makes redevelopment financially unviable, we are failing our communities. We need to strike a balance that allows for renovation and revitalization while respecting our heritage.”
Cllr Butterly’s motion calls for a comprehensive review to be completed within twelve months,
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.
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CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.
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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.
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focusing on both urban and rural contexts. She proposes that a list of structures be evaluated quarterly, aiming for transparency and collaboration among council members to ensure that only those buildings truly deserving of protection remain on the list.
“The goal is not to erase our history but to ensure that our towns and villages thrive. We must enable developers and homeowners to breathe new life into these spaces without the burden of unrealistic costs,” she added.
Cllr Butterly encourages her fellow council members to support this initiative, emphasising the importance of revitalising Louth’s architectural landscape while safeguarding the future of its communities.
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DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES—Weekly/fortnightly lawn mowing services available. Hedge, shrub trimming and shaping. Weeding, spraying, strimming. Full garden clean up and all waste removed. Free quote. Keen rates. Please contact 087 7019178.
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GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.
DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.
LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Dundalk Fabrication and Coatings Ltd., intend to apply for full planning permission for construction of a light industrial building with ancillary accommodation to include reception area, offices, storage & canteen facilities, parking provision & hard standing areas, 2no. gated accesses, boundary treatments, connection to existing road network & drainage system as previous approved under Planning Ref—19492; signage and all associated site development works at Sites 04, 06 & 08 Dundalk Retail Park, Upper Marshes, Dundalk, County Louth. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard Dowdall - MRIAI - Architect—Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mailbernard@dowdallarchitects.ie. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We Women’s Aid Dundalk intend to apply for Retention Permission of 2no. temporary prefabricated pre-school buildings and retention permission of a permanent storage shed At St. Monicas, The Long Avenue, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Retention permission to include all associated site development works. 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.
All-Star for Louth’s
Craig Lennon
THERE were huge celebrations in Louth Village this week as St Mochtas and Louth GAA player Craig Lennon was named on the PwC All Stars 2024 team at left-back.
Craig is just Louth’s second ever All Star with St Patrick’s GFC former midfielder Paddy Keenan picking up the County’s first ever All Star back in 2010.
Louth All Ireland winner Frank Lynch won a Chú Chulainn Award in 1964 when he was picked picked at left half back alongside GAA greats such as Mick O’Connell (Kerry), Mick Reynolds (Galway), Paddy Holden (Dublin) and Charlie Gallagher (Cavan).
The Chú Chullainn Awards were a previous incarnation of the All Stars running from 1963-1967 and saw a panel of esteemed former players pick the best fifteen players of the year
Craig who hails from Louth Village had a stellar year with the Wee County and has been compared to Mayo legend Lee Keegan thanks to his marauding runs up the field from defence.
Craig, who scored 4-7 from play last season in the Championship, was one of four Louth players nominated
with Sam Mulroy (Naomh Mairtin), Donal McKinney (Ardee St Mary’s) and Tommy Durnin (Inniskeen) also nominated thanks to Louth’s impressive run to the All-Ireland Quarter Finals.
Both Louth GAA and Craig’s club St Mochtas, congratulated the defender for becoming the first Louth player in 14 years to win an All Star
“Congratulations to Craig Lennon of St.Mochtas named on the PWC/ GAA All Stars Team of 2024.
“Craig had a wonderful season helping Louth retain Division 2 status, make a Leinster Final and go on a run to the All-Ireland Quarter Final.
“Congratulations Craig, very well deserved” read a post from Louth GAA.
St Mochtas posted: “Massive news this morning as we can announce that our very own Craig Lennon has won the county’s second ever All star award.
“An amazing year where Craig helped Louth to a Leinster final and All Ireland quarter final scoring 4.07 means Craig will join Paddy Keenan (2010) in the hall of fame .
“Huge congratulations Craig on a wonderful achievement.”
Dundalk FC to unveil new first team manager today
DUNDALK FC will announce their new first-team manager today just five days after now former manager Jon Daly left the club following the club’s relegation to the first division. Owner of Dundalk FC, John Temple, has wasted no time as he looks to get preparations underway for the new season which begins with pre-season friendlies in January.
A statement on the Dundalk FC website confirmed that an appointment has been made to help Dundalk FC gain promotion back to the Premier Division at the first time of asking next season.
“With preparations already well underway for the 2025 season, the club will welcome a new era with the appointment of the manager to lead us into the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division.
“The club takes this opportunity to thank the outgoing Jon Daly, who has returned to his family in Scotland. We thank Jon for his efforts and commitment over the past five months, and wish him and his family the very best going forward.
“We will announce our new manager on dundalkfc.com, alongside an unveiling to the media at Oriel Park,” read the statement.
FAMILY NOTICES
IN MEMORY OF THE DOLLARD AND CALLAN FAMILIES
DOLLARD
JOSEPH
In loving memory of Joseph Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 28th November, 2008, aged 86 years. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Elizabeth Dollard, late of 23, Parnell Park, Dundalk, who died 14th March, 1965, aged 74 years. Rest in peace.
CALLAN JOSEPH
In loving memory of Joseph Callan, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 19th March, 1955, aged 54 years. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Joe Dollard, late of 58, Market Street, Dundalk, who died 10th November, 2011, aged 62 years. Rest in peace.
DOLLARD MARY (Kitty)
In loving memory of Mary Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 12th January, 2020, aged 94 years. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Peter Dollard, late of 23, Parnell Park, Dundalk, who died 6th March, 1967. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Christina Callan, late of 103, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, who died 15th June, 1969, aged 68 years. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Geraldine Dollard, late of 58 Market Street, Dundalk, who died 1st March, 2024. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of David Dollard, late of 58 Market Street, Dundalk, who died 12th November, 2021. Rest in peace.
In loving memory of Gerard Dollard, late of 93, O’Hanlon Pk, Dundalk, who died 8th November, 2000, aged 58 years. Rest in peace.
HAMILL CHRISTINA
In loving memory of Christina Hamill (nee Dollard) late of 93, O Hanlon Park, Dundalk who died on the 13th December, 2021.
May she Rest In Peace.
CASSIDY Tracy 33rd ANNIVERSARY
In loving memory of Tracy Cassidy, late of Aghameen Park, Dundalk, whose 33rd anniversary occurs on 6th November. We thought of you with love today but that is nothing new, We thought of you yesterday and the day before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name, All we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake with which we’ll never part, God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts. —Loved always and sadly missed, Mum, Dad, brother Liam, sister Geraldine, sister-in-law Ann, and all your nieces and nephews.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted.
(Never known to fail). M.S.
HESLIN Kathleen 40th ANNIVERSARY
In loving mrmory of Kathleen, late of 96 Pearse Park, Dundalk, whose 40th anniversary is on 6th November. You never said ‘I’m leaving, You never said goodbye, You were gone before we knew it, And only God knew why. A million times we needed you, A million times we cried, If love alone could have saved you, You never would have died. In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still, In our hearts we hold a place, That only you could fill. —Loved and missed always by your daughters, sons and grandchildren.
Anniversary Mass in the Friary Church on 6th November at 6.15pm.
NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART
Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). L.R. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours. This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). P.C.
DOLLARD
ELIZABETH
DOLLARD GERARD
DOLLARD DAVID
DOLLARD PETER
DOLLARD
JOE
DOLLARD GERALDINE
CALLAN CHRISTINA
Craig Lennon receives his All Star award from GAA President Jarlath Burns.
Wheelie Bins
NEWS in Brief
Memory Café
For a free no obligation quotation
Callsave: 1850 774455
Tel. 042 9333513
Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk. OPENING HOURS
Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2 After hours by appointment
or replace your Velux
Dundalk Library’s Memory Café will take place on Tuesday 12th November at 2:30pm-3:30pm. The Guest Speakers are Senior Occupational Therapists Orla McDonnell and Kerrie Malone who will be discussing “Coping skills for Everyday Memory Loss”. Maeve Montgomery, Louth Dementia Advisor, will also be available on the day for any questions you may have. Join us for a relaxing, social afternoon, for music, tea, chat and support. The café takes place on the second Tuesday of every month and is a free of charge, drop-in event for people to come and meet others also living with Dementia / Alzheimer’s. Everyone is welcome! For further information, please contact Dundalk Library on 042-9353190 or email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.
Wreath Laying
At 11am on Monday the 11th November members of ONE Michael McNeela Branch will render honours and lay a wreath at the WW1 Memorial at the Crescent to acknowledge “Armistice Day” and remember and commemorate those men from Dundalk and surrounding area who fought and died in the Great War. Wreaths will be laid by invited guests. If a relative of a fallen or a member of the public would like to lay a wreath be present at the memorial at 10.45 with your wreath. If further information is required please phone Jim - 0879718272
Living With Parkinson’s
The HSE have organised a free Information Session for people living with Parkinson’s in County Louth.
This free living well with Parkinson’s information session will take place in Muirhevnamore Community Centre, Dundalk. (Eircode A91 W974) on Wednesday 13th November at 10am- 12pm.
This session will be facilitated by a HSE Dietitian, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Therapist. It is open to anyone living with Parkinson’s and their families or carers living in County Louth. It will be an opportunity to learn more about Parkinson’s and to ask questions. To book a place, please call 0426820015 (Monday – Friday, between 10am and 4pm).
Garabandal Pilgrimage
Monday, November 11Th To Friday, November 15Th, 2024, (5 Days) - Further Details: 0851833110.
Pilgrimage To Garabandal – Spain – Mid April,2025 - Fare Includes: Transport To And From Dublin Aiport, Accommodation In Garabandal, Bed, Breakfast And Evening Meal, Full Itinerary Plus Optional Excursions. Air Flight To Be Arranged By Individal Pilgrims Privately Or Through A Travel Agent. Garabandal will be extremely busy in 2025. Therefore, bookings will be taken in 2024. Enquiries: 0851833110.
Pilgrimage to Our Lady of Walsingham –North Norfolk – England. For nearly 1,000 years people have been going to Walsingham to worship God and honour His mother, Mary. Pilgrimage will take place in May, 2025. Further details: 0851833110.
Phone: 042 932 0888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com
