09-04-2025 by Peter Kierans

Ardee Bog row rumbles

By Paul Byrne

THE seemingly never ending saga of the proposed Ardee bypass took another turn this week with both sides of the argument agreeing that constructive engagement is the only way to bring an end to the impasse.

The proposed N52 Ardee Bypass project is being built to improve road safety as well as reducing vehicular traffic in Ardee which has been the cause of gridlock in the town. The project, however, has been vehemently opposed by a group calling themselves ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’.

The group insist that the proposed route for the bypass is due to run directly through the easterly edge of Ardee bog’s which wildlife

enthusiasts and environmentalists in the area are claiming will have a hugely adverse effect on local habitat including the curlew bird which reside in the bog. They have also warned of the dangers of flooding in the town should the bypass be built on the bog.

Last year a High Court decision was delivered in 2024 that refused their application for a Judicial Review regarding the decision of An Bord Pleanála (EIA and AA Screening decisions) and the N52 Ardee Bypass. This seemingly brought an end to the sage which has delayed progress on the proposed bypass for a number of years due to various court proceedings brought forward by ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’.

Continued on Page 2

GOLDEN GIRLS—Dundalk are set to honour local athletes Eve McCrystal and Kate O’Connor with a Civic Reception tomorrow evening, for their outstanding sporting achievements. Full Story Page 6.

All parties in Ardee Bog row call for talks to end stalemate

From Page 1

However, earlier this year it was revealed that there would be yet more delays following the decision of the ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ to lodge a Supreme Court Application for Leave to Appeal in respect of that High Court decision delivered last year. This now means that the proposed project will not be able to get underway until such time as the legal process is fully exhausted.

Ardee Fine Gael councillor Dolores Minogue has been outspoken in her frustrations of the group calling them ‘no friends of Ardee Town’ for blocking the project at every turn. Last month, the Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien announced that the Department of Transport will provide €633 million funding for national roads - including the Ardee by-

pass which led to Cllr. Minogue once again pleading to ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ to drop their Supreme Court Appeal.

She also urged Louth County Council to engage with ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ to try and find a solution to address the group’s concerns. She stated that ‘constructive engagement was key to getting the project up and running again’. However, in response to those words ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ insisted they have always been open to constructive engagement and that it was local councillors like Dolores Minogue and Jim Tenanty who were constantly resisting efforts to engage with the group. These claims were immediately refuted by both councillors.

“Friends of Ardee Bog acknowledges the

NO MAST IN LORDSHIP

Are

recent announcement of €633 million in National roads funding by the Department of Transport, which includes the proposed Ardee Bypass. Infrastructure development, when done correctly, can serve communities and protect the environment hand-inhand.

“In response to recent remarks by Cllr. Dolores Minogue, we would like to clarify our position.

“Constructive Engagement has always been our approach.

For the past six years, Friends of Ardee Bog has made repeated and genuine efforts to engage with both Cllr. Minogue and Cllr. Jim Tenanty and others. Unfortunately, those efforts have been met with silence, resistance, or outright dismissal. It is deeply disappointing to now see calls for engagement only after a Supreme Court chal-

lenge has progressed.

That said, we are encouraged by this shift in tone and welcome any sincere opportunity for respectful, solutionfocused dialogue.

“We Stand for Sustainable Progress: Our legal challenge, which was a last resort due to lack of engagement, is not about blocking progress—it is about ensuring that proper environmental protec-

tions, legal obligations, and community consultation are respected.

The Ardee Bog is a unique and irreplaceable ecosystem. Any development that affects it must be held to the highest standards. Environmental protection is not optional, it is our legal obligation and our moral responsibility to our future generations.

“We do not oppose progress. We support

development that is transparent, responsible, and reflective of today’s needs—not outdated assumptions. What we will not accept is political grandstanding, or token gestures aimed at scoring shortterm points.

“The way forward: We remain fully open to engagement with our Local Authority and believe a solution can be found through

engagement. But that engagement must be based on mutual respect, a genuine willingness to listen and a shared commitment to ensuring Ardee’s future is sustainable, inclusive and responsible.

“We are not the obstacle we are part of the solution, but only if people are willing to meet us in truth and good faith,” concluded the statement.

When asked by the Dundalk Leader if they had indeed been resisting efforts to engage with ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ both Dolores Minogue and Jim Tenanty refuted the accusations with Minogue offering to meet with the group as early as next week.

“Sounds great. I am free to meet the group next week and hopefully a quick resolution can be found to satisfy everyone and allow the bypass to begin this year!,” she stated. Meanwhile Councillor Tenanty stated “I dispute the sentence that ‘Friends of Ardee Bog’ mention myself in their press release as they have never attempted to approach myself. At this month’s meeting I called for a public meeting to address issues with all concerned citizens including friends of the bog on back of a motion by Cllr Mc Geough,” he insisted.

David revealed as composer for major movie

LOCAL singer songwriter David Keenan has been revealed as the composer for upcoming crime drama Salvable. Salvable is an upcoming British boxing crime drama film directed by Bjorn Franklin and Johnny Marchetta, written by Franklin and starring Shia LaBeouf.

The Knockbridge man has enjoyed a stellar rise since he broke through after going viral singing one of his songs (El Paso) in the back of Maxi’s Taxi in Dundalk. He has released two critically

acclaimed albums to date and has garnered a reputation

as a uniquely poetic singer-songwriter/ storyteller and relentless live performer over the last number of years.

This week the 31 year old excitedly announced on social media that he is the main composer of the soundtrack to ‘Salvable’.

“I’ve been sitting on this news for a while but can now excitedly announce my role as Main Composer on upcoming boxing / crime drama

‘Salvable’ starring Toby Kebbell & Shia LaBeouf out in the US via @lionsgate on May 2nd.

“This opportunity came about when writer / directors @bjornfranklin & @jmarchettafilm reached out after hearing a particular song of mine called God is a Magpie.

“When I read the script ideas started to pour out and the result is a soundtrack that maps the film and the characters

journeys from beginning to end.

“Heartfelt thanks to Bjorn & Johnny, @lowkeyfilms & The music team : @ paulgerardcampbellmusic @petebaldwin_ @blackmountainstudios @ marc_carolan who helped me achieve this goal.

“Excited to see where the Salvable adventure goes next and to continue to compose for screen as a new creative outlet,” stated David.

NEW figures show that there has been a 300% increase in shoplifting incidents in the Louth district since 2003.

The figures, obtained from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) by Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, reveal that shoplifting has dramatically increased across

most counties in Ireland over the past 20 years. There were 344 recorded incidents of shoplifting in the Louth Garda Division in 2003. This grew to 1376 recorded incidents of shoplifting in Louth in 2024, an increase of 300%. Between 2023 and 2024 alone, shoplifting in the Louth

Garda division grew by 35%.

The biggest increase, according to the data, was in Kildare, which saw a 314% rise in shoplifting during that period. To combat the rise, MEP Ní Mhurchú has called for mandatory prison sentences for anyone caught shoplifting on

more than one occasion, updates to the Public Order Acts to allow prolific offenders of retail crime to be excluded from premises for a certain period, and support for targeted Garda operations to tackle retail crime and remove assets from those suspected of organized retail theft.

She has also called for the introduction of a specific offence for assaulting a retail worker and an end to the practice of ‘retail defamation,’ where someone can sue a retailer for defamation if they are stopped with a bona fide belief that they have stolen something from the shop.

A picture of Ardee Bog where the proposed Bypass will run through. Pic credit: Katie Holten.

David Keenan.

Dundalk Chamber calls for cool heads following Trump’s tariffs

PADDY Malone from the Dundak Chamber of Commerce has urged local businesses to keep calm and not panic following last week’s announcement by the President of America, Donald Trump that he was putting a blanket 20% tariff on most EU exports.

The EU has not yet announced how they are going to respond to those tariffs but according to Dundalk Chamber of Commerce member

Paddy Malone, business owners must keep a cool head and wait to see what the EU’s response will be.

“This is just the opening salvo,” stated paddy. “We need to calm down and wait for a measured response from Brussells. Trump has shown that he doesn’t know what V.A.T is by quoting a figure of 39% which he says that the E.U are charging the U.S in tariffs.

“The last thing we want

from here is a trade war as that will hit us hard with the whiskey and dairy industries in particular danger should this escalate. From a local point of view we have to make sure that the pharma industry is protected. So far it has been declared exempt from tariffs but we need to be ready in case that changes anytime soon,” explained Paddy.

Things can change quickly and we know that only too

well even from politics in this country. Jack Lynch won in a landslide in 1977 and was hugely popular but three years later he was gone. We need to work with the E.U rather than stand alone by ourselves and we have to hope that sanity prevails. The performance of the markets since Trump’s announcement will hopefully make him stop and think that maybe he doesn’t have a clear enough strategy to see this through.

“We have proved resilient in the past in relation to Brexit and the Windsor Agreement that came out of hat is working well at present. Dundalk and Newry are doing more business with each other than ever so that is positive. As I said already now is a time for cool heads and lets wait to see what move the E.U will make next before deciding on what our strategy going forward will be,” concluded Paddy.

Louth County Council to honour

Kate and Eve with Civic Reception

LOUTH County Council will host a Civic Reception at County Hall, Dundalk, on Thursday, 20th April, to honour the sporting achievements of Kate O’Connor and Eve McCrystal.

The event recognises the extraordinary accomplishments of two of the county’s most celebrated athletes who have proudly represented Louth and Ireland on the global stage, inspiring countless others with their dedication, talent, and resilience.

PART-TIME JOURNALIST

We are looking to recruit a journalist who ideally has a working knowledge and interest in our local and national law system and how it works. Previous experience in reporting at local District and Circuit Courts would be a distinct advantage. This position would be part-time on a 12-month contract and would be financially supported by Coimisiún na Meán.

Please apply in writing to: Paul Byrne, Editor, Dundalk Leader, 9A Crowe St, Dundalk or email editorial@dundalkleader.com

Kate O’Connor made history in 2024 when she became Ireland’s first Olympic heptathlete and Louth’s first female Track and Field Olympian at the Paris Games.

Having risen through the ranks at Dundalk St Gerard’s AC, she has gone on to claim medals at the European U20 Championships, Commonwealth Games, and most recently, at the World Indoor Championships in China, where she ended Ireland’s 19-year wait for a medal at that level.

Eve McCrystal’s legacy in cycling is unparalleled. Over a decade-long tandem partnership with Katie-George Dunlevy, she secured an incredible haul of five medals across three Paralympic Games in Rio, Tokyo

and Paris, along with multiple World Championship titles.

A two-time Irish National Road Racing champion, Eve’s illustrious career concluded with a final World Championship medal in 2024, when she partnered Josephine Healion to a bronze in Switzerland, and induction into the Cycling Ireland Hall of Fame.

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, praised both athletes, saying: “Kate and Eve have not only excelled in their respective sports, but they’ve also brought immense pride

to Louth. Their journeys speak to the power of perseverance, and their success has placed our county - and indeed our country - firmly on the international sporting map. This Civic Reception is a heartfelt expression of our admiration and gratitude.”

Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:

“What makes Kate and Eve’s stories so special is the way they connect with people, especially young girls and women. They’ve become powerful role models, showing what is possible not just in sport, but in life. Whether you’re

a student, an aspiring athlete, or a mother juggling dreams and responsibilities, they show that excellence is always within reach.”

Joe McGuinness, Director of Services at Louth County Council, also noted the council’s ongoing investment in local sport, saying: “Louth County Council is currently in the final stages of a tender process for a new athletics track in Dundalk. While no formal plans to include a contract signing as part of the upcoming Civic Reception, the project remains a priority. Subject to the comple-

tion of contractual and administrative steps, we would hope that work can commence during the summer. In the south of the county, arrangements are also in place to make the Lourdes Stadium in Drogheda available on a number of Sundays in April and May to facilitate scheduled athletics events.”

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, also paid tribute, saying: “Both Kate and Eve are shining examples of what can be achieved through hard work, talent and determination. They have inspired not only our local community but the entire country with their achievements. Their stories will leave a lasting legacy in our town, one that encourages young people to dream big and aim high.”

The invite-only reception will bring together family, friends, and elected members to formally celebrate the achievements of two inspirational women whose legacy will live on in County Louth for generations to come.

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER

Eve McCrystal.

Kate O’Connor.

Paddy Malone.

Minister Troy launches National Cultivate Week: 7–13 April 2025

National Cultivate Week runs from 7–13 April 2025, with events taking place at participating Cultivate Credit Unions nationwide

Cultivate is an initiative of a group of credit unions across 175 locations in the Republic of Ireland that provides short to medium term loans built specifically for the growing needs of its farming members

ROBERT Troy, Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance, this week launched National Cultivate Week which takes place from 7–13 April. This annual event brings together credit unions and their members to celebrate Irish farmers and the vital role they play in sustaining local communities and the wider economy.

Credit unions across the country will mark the week with a wide range of national and local events, offering opportunities to connect with farming families, highlight supports available through Cultivate loans, and showcase the strong relationship between credit unions and the agricultural community.

Therese Conway, newly appointed CEO of Collaborative Finance - the organisation behind the Cultivate brand said:

“National Cultivate Week is a celebration of Irish farmers and the communities that

support them - and an opportunity to show how credit unions are stepping up to meet their needs. Cultivate loans are built around the realities of farm life: flexibility, speed, and a real personal service. The surge in demand for Cultivate loans since it launched in 2017 is proof that this approach works. We’re proud to have the support of Minister Robert Troy and we look forward to meeting farmers at events

across the country during National Cultivate Week”.

Drogheda Credit Union will visit Agri businesses and services over the coming with to foster relationships and ensure that farmers have access to the funding they need to support their business. Contact Drogheda Credit Union on 0419838496 or email loans@ droghedacu.ie for more information on our cultivate loan product.

Late Night Soccer League

THE final Late Night Soccer League event of the season took place last Thursday at the Dundalk FC Community Centre at Oriel Park, organised as part of the Garda National Youth Diversion Programme.

Over 30 teenagers from Dundalk took part in soccer games with members of Dundalk Gardaí in what was the latest in a series of matches that allow young people to interact with Gardaí away from law enforcement.

Garda Paul Burke, Juvenile Liaison Officer, (JLO) has been the driving force of the Late Night League which is now in its 14th year and is proving more popular than ever.

Gda. Burke said the games were the last ones played in a six-week run and over 40 young people, aged between 12 and 18, had taken part. He said: ‘On average, we had 20 or more each week over the series and the pitches were full. We had upwards of 35 on our final night here in the YDC at Oriel Park.

‘We hope to do it again in June as we have been running these leagues twice a year for the last 14 years. I want to thank the youth projects and the workers in those projects who make it possible.

‘I want to say a big thanks to the project workers at the TEAM Project Muirhevnamor, the High Voltage Project at The House in Cox’s Demesne and Youthwork Ireland Louth based at Craobh Rua. Without them, we would not have this

league at all’. There was praise also for Dundalk FC owner John Temple who provided the facilities at the club’s community centre and also sponsored the pizzas after the final game of the Late Night League season and for Dundalk FC’s Liam Burns as well as the FAI’s Mick Neville.

Sgt. Niall O’Reilly from the Garda National Youth Diversion Programme also made the trip to Oriel Park for the final night.

He said: ‘It is great to see what soccer can do for the young people who take part. It gives them an av-

enue for positive interactions and it is really good to see what Gda. Burke has done, and continues to do, in the town.

‘Dundalk has great facilities for this type of project which focuses on bettering interaction between Gardaí and those who are in the youth projects in the area. There is also great buy-in from the projects in Dundalk which is essential to the success we see here.

‘Late Night Leagues like this helps to keep young people out of trouble, fosters those better relationships and is extremely positive’.

Damian Winstanley Memorial Poker Classic

THE uncle of a man who died suddenly in New York last December is helping to organise a Poker Classic later this month with all proceeds going to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Foundation.

Dundalk man Michael Stanley is helping to organise the event in memory of his nephew Damian Stanley who hails from Jonesborough. Damian was living in Queens at the time of his death. His remains were returned to Ireland by the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

Among those who

paid tribute to him following the news of his death was his local GAA team, Dromintee GAC, which counted Damian as a former underage player and club jersey sponsor. They said: “The committee and members of Dromintee GAC send our deepest con-

dolences to his mother Assumpta, daughters Seána and Tara, sisters Donna (Connolly), Martina (McGenity) and Suzanne, his brother Gerard, his partner Cecelia and entire Stanley family circle.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

The Poker Classic (5 Card Draw) will take place on Sunday 20th April at 6pm at the Dromintee GAA club hall. Tickets cost €50 and include light refreshments, rebuys (€5) and top ups (€10). The Poker Classic is in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatria-

tion Foundation. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust aims to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the body (bodies) of loved one(s) who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland. KBRT was founded out of a family tragedy when, in June 2013, Kevin Bell died suddenly in New York. Following an outpouring of support from Kevin’s friends, family and colleagues, a significant amount of funds were raised to repatriate his remains back to Ireland.

1—What did Donald Trump call April 2nd the day he announced he whole raft of tarriffs on countries all over the world?

2—What is the smallest planet in our solar system?

3—What is the capital of Qatar?

4—Only two counties in Ireland contain the letter U. Can you name both?

5—Where in Dundalk would you find ‘The Eye Stone’, ‘The Waist Stone’,

‘The Head Stone’, ‘The Hoof Stone’ and ‘The Knee Stone’?

6—In what year did The Beatles split up?

7—What instrument does Lisa Simpson play in popular animated series The Simpsons?

8—Elizabeth Tower is the official name of which famous London landmark?

9—Which musical instrument did Karen Carpenter play?

10—Gene Roddenberry

created which hugely popular tv series which was originally aired in 1966? The Stinker—What is the difference between a tendon and a ligament?

Minister of State Robert Troy TD, Joe Healy Chairperson of Collaborative Finance and Therese Conway, CEO of Collaborative Finance at the launch of National Cultivate Week which runs from 7–13 April 2025.

Garda Paul Burke (back row left) and Garda Darragh Prior (back row right) with some of the players at last week’s final Late Night Soccer League game.

Terence ‘Banjo’ Bannon, Student Garda Shayleen McDonagh, Garda Darragh Prior, Dundalk FC owner John Temple, JLO Garda Paul Burke, community worker Jennifer Owens and Sgt. Niall O’Reilly at the Dundalk FC Community Centre

Damian Stanley.

Ó Murchú praises brilliant work of youth projects but states they are lacking resources

YOUTH projects that aim to divert young people away from criminality are doing ‘brilliant work’ but are lacking in resources, Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú has said.

The Dundalk deputy highlighted the work being done by youth projects in Dundalk, but pointed to the fact that drugs and fewer Gardaí are having a bad impact in many area. He was speaking during a debate in the Dáil on diverting young people away from criminality.

He said: ‘I have seen the huge work done by the High Voltage Project, which now has an early intervention piece, that operates out of The House in Cox’s Demesne and also the TEAM youth diversion project operating out of the Muirhevnamor Community Youth Project.

‘It is like all of these projects. We talk about brilliant people who are doing brilliant work but it is about the resources and at some stage we are coming too late to the problem’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said drugs continue to be a major

problem. He said: ‘Unfortunately for a significant part of the country, it is all about drugs.

‘There needs to be a real conversation around the issues out there, in particular issues

Dundalk Sub Aqua club trainees complete dives in Donegal

DUNDALK Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit headed off to Mallinbeg, Co. Donegal, on the weekend 21/23 March with a group of trainee recreational divers. There they all successfully completed three dives in Mallinbeg & St. John’s Point. It was a fantastic achievement for all trainees, as weather conditions were far from perfect, but it didn’t deter anyone, who were eager to get going.

While in Donegal it was an opportunity for the group to launch their new Search and Rescue boat. The boat was named ‘Olive’, in memory of colleague ‘Olive Traynor’. Olive was the partner of Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue diving officer Finbarr Dillon, who has held the diving officer role from the formation of the club over 20 years ago. Olive, while ill, enjoyed joining the group on many of their dive trips & her presence was always felt. With their new boat, Olive’s memory will last for many years to come.

Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit are a group of Volunteer scuba divers who give up their time freely when required at they’re own expense, to search for missing people in the water. They work closely with all the emergency agencies throughout the island of Ireland and are always on call should their services be required.

that are happening in working-class areas where it is a hell of a lot worse as regards drug debt intimidation and other issues which are impacted more by having fewer gardaí.

‘We need to increase pressure in the next while because we just have too many bad examples of what are reasonably sized drug dealers, who, as I said last week, at times have had houses seized by CAB, which has carried out some serious operations against them.

‘However, they are still in operation and they provide the bad example, particularly in these working-class areas that are suffering high levels of deprivation.

‘We need to get real and we will engage with the Minister. However, there has to be a twoway engagement, a real conversation and a real plan.

‘That means we need to go out there and assess the problem that we are dealing with because I do not think anyone has been serious about this to date’.

Students in Louth should apply for increased student grants—Paula Butterly TD

ELIGIBLE students in Louth should apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) following the opening for applications for the 2025/26 academic year, Fine Gael Deputy Butterly has said.

Deputy Butterly said the substantial increase in the thresholds for grants means more students will now be eligible for grant support.

“The increase in student maintenance grants are a step forward for students and families in Louth and across the country.

“Ensuring we remove any barriers to education has always been a key priority for Fine Gael.

“I’m delighted that more students in Louth will now be able to benefit from financial support.

“Fine Gael is committed to cutting the cost of education and alleviating financial pressures, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than any undue financial stress.

“Key measures include: Increased Eligibility: More families will now qualify, with the income limit raised to €115,000, allowing more stu-

dents to access financial support.

Higher Grant Amounts: The special rate of grant has increased from €26,200 to €27,400, in line with rises in social welfare rates.

Increased Income Deductions: Students can now earn more during the holidays without it affecting their grant, with the income deduction rising to €8,424.

Expanded Eligibility: The scheme has been broadened to include students with certain immigration statuses, such as those under the Regularisation Scheme.

“I want to encourage all eligible students across Louth to apply now. If you qualify, don’t hesitate to visit the SUSI website at www.susi.ie.

“Fine Gael believes in making major investments in our higher education system and we will help to ensure that every student in Louth has a meaningful opportunity to learn and get the qualification they want”, concluded Deputy Butterly.

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Aine Fox receives her training certificate from Finbar Dillon.

Barbara O’Connor receives her training certificate from Finbarr Dillon.

Colm Connolly receives his training certificate from Finbarr Dillon.

Finbarr Dillon presents Christine Caffrey with her training certificate.

Finbarr Dillon presents training certificate to Meg McCutcheon.

Tina Gleeson receives her training certificate from Finbarr Dillon.

Daniel Payne receives his training certificate from Finbarr Dillon.

Elaine O’Donoghue receives her training certificate from Finbarr Dillon.

Deputy Paula Butterly.

FAMILY NOTICES

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

S.L. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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PLANNING NOTICES.

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WILL’S SERVICES for all mini moves, yard cleans, gutters, gardens, power washing and recycling removal. Ph Will on 085 8604048.

PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—Interior and exterior plus Wallpapering, also sprayed and hand painted kitchens, all work carried out by professional trades men. Tel Brian 087 7558506.

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LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Eilish McKeever, intend to apply for planning permission for a new pedestrian gate and all associated site development works at The Western Boundary of Technology House, Cluan Enda, Dundalk, Co. 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.

L.M.

EFFICACIOUS NOVENA

TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS

I. O my Jesus, you have said: ‘Truly I say to you, ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you. ‘Behold I knock, I seek and ask for the grace of...... (here name your request) Our Father... . Hail Mary... . Glory Be to the Father... . Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. II. O my Jesus, you have said: ‘Truly I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. ‘Behold, in your name, I ask the Father for the grace of...... . (here name your request) Our Father... Hail Mary... . Glory Be To the Father... . Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.

III. O my Jesus, you have said: ‘Truly I say to you, heaven and earth will pass away but my words will not pass away. ‘Encouraged by your infallible words I now ask for the grace of... . . (here name your request) Our Father... . Hail Mary... . Glory Be to the Father... Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. O Sacred Heart of Jesus, for whom it is impossible not to have compassion on the afflicted, have pity on us miserable sinners and grant us the grace which we ask of you, through the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, your tender Mother and ours. Say the Hail, Holy Queen and add: St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus, pray for us. Amen. M.C.

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

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

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

FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229.

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

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.

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

ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries.

FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.305.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

EXPERIENCED RELIABLE MAN available for lawn cutting, hedge cutting, gutters cleaned and power-washing. Phone 0872296441.

WILL’S GARDENING SERVICES—Power and pressure washing, hedge cutting, strimmimg, gutter cleaning, house and furniture removals. Tel 089 9531751.

TAKE THE HASSLE OUT of your garden. I do it all. Grass cutting, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Strimming, Power washing, Gutter Cleaning, Fence Painting, General DIY, Flat Pack Assembly, Removals. Contact Catriona 087 3172109.

DMC GARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVIC -

ES—Hedge, shrub trimming, shaping or removal. Large lawns mowed ride on mower strimming weeding beds, weedkilling, moss removal, control demolition, removal of old sheds fencing etc and more. All works to a very high standard at keen rates. Free quote 0877019178.

TREE SERVICES—Tree surgery, stump grinding, wood chipping & pruning. Conifer hedge reduction and ash die back removal. Fully Insured & Certified. Contact Chambers on 087 2750825 Email rchambers2008@yahoo.ie.

PSYCHOTHERAPY IN DUNDALK—Struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or just need to talk? Call Kristine at 0830230066. Sessions from €40–€60.

BEN’S POWER WASHING service and hedge cutting also house removals Tel 0874464960.

HEALING AVAILABLE—Rahanni, Reiki, Access Bars, Life Coaching, Universal Reflexology. Williamsons Mall, Dundalk Tel Fiona 087 7188450.

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

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. FRENCH GRINDS available for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.

TUITION BY UNIVERSITY LECTURER for 1st, 2nd and 3rd level students in a range of subjects. Also, adults requiring reading, writing and computer skills. To discuss call 083 3963897.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Significant Further Information. I, Gerry Murphy, have submitted significant further information in connection with my application for demolition of 2 no. existing commercial units (café / retail / storage use) and construction of a three storey mixed commercial & residential building. The lower ground floor comprises of a two bed room apartment and bike & storage area, the ground floor includes 2no. ground floor retail units, with 1no. two bed apartment and 1no. one bed apartment and the first floor comprises of 1no. one bed and 1no. two bed apartments (5no. apartments and 2no. retail units in total) on a site of 0.1318 hectares. All residential units to be provided with private amenity space in the form of balconies. The development includes the provision of new vehicular entrance area, car and bike parking areas, bin storage, EV charging points, revised boundary treatments, new footpaths and stepped access, foul and surface water drainage, watermains, alterations to the existing site levels, retaining walls, all associated / ancillary landscaping and site development works. An AA Screening report was submitted as part of this application at Main Street, Knockagoran, Omeath (Planning Reference Number 2460822). The Significant further information includes—Revised plans, sections and elevations. Revised site plans. External bike store details. Building life cycle report. Clarification on retail use. Taking in charge site plan. Confirmation of feasibility from Uisce Éireann. Daylight and Sunlight Assessment. The further information 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 2 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the further information, 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-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitect.ie.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Significant Further Information. We, Dundalk Fabrication and Coatings Ltd, have submitted significant further information in connection with our application for construction of a light industrial building with ancillary accommodation to include reception area, offices, storage & canteen facilities, parking provision & hard standing areas, 2 no. 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. (Planning Reference Number 2460740). The Significant further information includes—EIA Screening Assessment Report. Clarifications of the proposed use. Clarifications in relation to noise & dust emissions. Revised site plans. Revised flood risk assessments. Revised SuDS report and details. Clarifications in relation to staff numbers and cycle parking. Archaeological assessment details. Clarifications and details of proposed external storage outside the building. Landscaping details. The further information 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 2 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the further information, 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-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitect.ie.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Meghan Mullen, intend to apply for retention permission for a single storey dwelling, a single storey domestic garage / store, new vehicular entrance, effluent treatment system with percolation area and all associated site development / landscaping works at Feede, Ravensdale, 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.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Keith White, intend to apply for retention permission for a two storey replacement dwelling that has replaced an original one and two storey dwelling, new effluent treatment system, percolation area, soakaways and all associated site development works at Templetown, Carlingford, 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.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—Significant Further Information. We, LUAIRB1 Limited, have submitted significant further information in connection with my application for change of use of an existing B&B to Guesthouse with alterations and extensions including provision of new first floor areas incorporating additional bedroom and ancillary accommodation, extensions to the front and rear, internal arrangement changes, elevational changes, alterations including a first floor extension to the existing building adjoining the main building, new additional car parking and surface water drainage, connection to the public foul water network and all associated site development works. A Natura Impact Statement was submitted as part of the application at Barnavave B&B, Ghan Road, Liberties of Carlingford, County Louth. (Planning Reference Number 2560075). The Significant further information includes—Detailed business plan; Clarification on the requirement for support services; Proposed bike and bin store details; Construction, Waste & Sediment Control Management Plan; Landscaping plan; Details of proposed EV Charging points. The further information 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 2 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the further information, 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-mail - bernard@dowdallarchitect.ie.

5 th ANNIVERSARY SALE

9333513

www.senatorwindows.ie

senatordundalk@gmail.com

Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Members of Hybrid Martial Arts Club proudly show off their medals following a great start to 2025.

Hybrid Martial Arts Club

HYBRID Martial Arts in

Bridge St. have enjoyed a busy start to 2025, competing regularly across Ireland and the UK since the start of the year.

The club hit the ground running in January when they competed at the TMA Open in Tallaght. Next up was ‘The Battle of The North in Derry’ in February where all members performed admirably. The third competition of the year was in the UK at The Petersborough Championship Series in March and most recently the Kickboxing Ireland Na-

tional Championships where a number of our students gained a place on the KBI Irish Team, which is the only Sport Ireland recognised body for kickboxing in Ireland.

One student in particular showed his huge potential by claiming his first National Title at just seven years old. From total beginners getting their first taste of competiton to the more seasoned competitors, what a start to the year they have all had. All competitors have shown progression and smashed so many performance

goals this year to date.

Although Hybrid Martial Arts are a small non-profit club, through relentless dedication, accountability, a great team and a clear vision of where they want to be they are progressing steadily year after year. The club work hard to maintain their full time studio in Bridge St. and train every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. New members always welcome. Beginner to Elite! The club would like to thank Advantage Forwarding Ltd for their sponsorship.

NEWS in Brief

Birches Social Club

Darts League

and The

Bar, The Bodhran

Corbetts Craicheads. Conor Stevenson got the Craicheads off to a great start with winning the 1st game but unfortunately for his team that would be the only match that his team would win as wins for Mickey McMahon, Alan Dullaghan, Darren Ludlow and Nipper Boyce all won to secure the win for the Bodhran and further wins for Kevin Thompson & Brendan Galvin made the scoreline 6-1.

Also in the Northend, The Big House Eagles played The Phoenix. Marty Dixon and Conor Dunn won the first 2 matches before an impressive win by Vinny Rogers (player of the match for the Phoenix) reduced the deficit to 2-1.

Further wins for Paul Monahan & Conor McArdle sealed a 4-1 win for The Eagles.

Meanwhile, In The Big House, Uncle Toms Cabin played Uncle Kevin’s This was a cracking game with Denis Smith putting Uncle Toms Cabin 1 up before Conall Stafford restored parity.

Isaac Smith put Uncle Toms 2-1 up before Jack Hanlon won to leave the scores level again. Aaron Duffy put Uncle Toms 3-2 up before Wayne Fry once again levelled things up.

Hughie Smith sealed the win for Uncle Toms. Also in the Big House, Uncle Toms played Damh O’Thuaidh. This was always going to be a close game and Paddy Hoey put Uncle Toms 1 up before Hughie Shiels won to level things up.

Alan Clarke won the next to put Uncle Toms 2-1 up. Paul Callan won the next to level things up yet again.

Simon Wykes was next up for Damh O’Thuaidh and he won 2-1 against Eddie Duffy (player of the match for Uncle Toms) before Alan Rogan had an impressive 2-0 win to secure the win for Damh O’Thuaidh and after playing out the final game, Paddy Gibney won to make the final scoreline 5-2.

Next up is the preliminary round of the Divisional Cup with home advantage for the teams drawn out 1st.

St Oliver Plunkett

The Old Dundalk Society in conjunction with The County Louth Archaeological and Historical Society is delighted to announce the second of its Spring lectures of the 2025 season. The lecture entitled St Oliver Plunkett: His Life and Times in the Dundalk Area. The Lecture will

ST DOMINICS FC THANK DUNDALK LIONS CLUB FOR DONATION TOWARDS NEW DEFIBRILLATOR BOX

St Dominics FC have thanked the Dundalk Lions Club for their generous donation to the club towards a new defibrillator box. Catherine Doherty, Dundalk Lions Club president and Pat McGee also from Dundalk Lions club dropped down to the club to present the cheque recently to U12’s academy coach Shane McGurk.

Cross-Border Tourism Conference a huge success

THE beautiful Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford was the setting for the Annual Cross Border Tourism Conference organized by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce.

The event, which was sponsored by Failte Ireland, ZOMA, Louth County Council, Local Enterprise Office Louth, and The Marshes Shopping Centre and attracted just under two hundred delegates from all over Ireland.

The event brought together various tourism projects around Ireland and Europe, and it really was a case of “Learning from the Best.”

There were six key speakers including:

Sabhbh Ni Mhaolagain, -Tourism Office Louth County Council discussed “Visit LouthA Vision for Tourism in County Louth”

David Kieran -ZOMA spoke about “The use of AI in Tourism”.

Professor Terry Stevens- Tourism Trend

Analysist & Commentator and Harry John – - Head of Market Switzerland for Saint Elmo’s Tourism and Owner of Pure Solution Ltd and Linking Brands Ltd Berne/Vienna covered “Transforming adven-

Hanna McDonnell speaks at the conference.

ture tourism, destinations: new challenges, new players, new responsibilities and new opportunities.”

Pól Ó ConghaileTravel Editor with the Irish Independent discussed the “10 Travel Trends in 2025!”

There were over twenty exhibitors from all over Louth and beyond and delegates were able to visit the trade stands and network at the coffee breaks and lunch. There was also an educational work shop hosted by ZOMA after the event on How Digital Marketing in Tourism & Hospitality Can Attract Global Guests.

Hanna McDonnell Acting President of Dun-

Mountain

By Joe McElarney

I climbed to the top of the mountain, but I found no wisdom, because it’s so very elusive, that mountain is called Carrauntoohill. Down in Kerry, where it stole my heart, to go up and down on the craggy rocks.

I climbed to the top of the mountain and after I searched under every bush and down every rabbit hole, yet I found no wisdom. That mountain is called the Mountain of Mourne, as it sweeps down to the sea.

I climbed to the top of the mountain, but I found no wisdom. That mountain is called Mount Everest. Lots of snow.

I climbed to the top of the mount, but I found no wisdom. That mount is called Krakatoa. In 1883 the eruption was equivalent to 200 megatons of TNT.

And so in sharing my frustration, it came to me.

As I walked away from it all, it suddenly dawned on me. That the wisdom was to be found in the making there of. That is, in the mountains and the fountains

(The ETA is a permit which non-British and non-Irish citizens, who do not require a visa, will generally need to enter the UK.

That will include international visitors who arrive in Dublin and then plan to travel to Northern Ireland.) and we in the Chamber will be lobbying to ensure that visitors can travel seamlessly from the south into the north and vice versa,” stated Hanna.

dalk Chamber opened the Conference and speaking to the Dundalk Leader following the conference she spoke of the many positive developments which were spoken of during the conference.

“The majority of the conversations were about building collaborations and clusters with both sides of the border to help tourism in this area. There are so many interesting aspects to tourism in addition to the magnificent scenery and we want to focus on the wonderful food and culture that can be found locally and highlight that. We also spoke of the implications of the recently introduced ETA

“I’m not sure if the UK have actually thought of the implications this will have on tourism but Paddy Malone from the Chamber is on top of this issue and he is letting the powers that be know of the issues this will cause.

I was inspired by the two international speakers we had at the conference and there is a lot to be optimistic about. We have fantastic new ‘Visit Louth’ branding and we will be pushing Louth as a tourist destination. It doesn’t have to be all about the sun when you go on holidays and we will be pushing the idea of Ireland as a cooler country where there are opportunities to see fabulous scenery and with plenty of things to do,” added Hanna.

Dundalk’s only Duathlon event takes place this weekend

ON 13th April, Dundalk’s only Duathlon event, the annual Setanta Duathlon, will take place in Ravensdale. The event consists of a 3.2KM run, a 16KM bike, and a 3.2KM run to finish. Registration begins at 8am, race at 10am. The Setanta Duathlon takes place at The Rosewood Country Club, Ravensdale, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Registrations via the Triathlon Ireland Website.

Your race will begin with a 3.2Km run to start. Then a quick transition and you’re off to complete a 16Km cycle on 2 loops of our bike course which has some downhill, some uphill and a whole load of Push It As Hard As You Can!!! Then it’s out on to the last 3.2Km run. The race is sanctioned by Triathlon Ireland and we can promise all competitors a safe and enjoyable day. The lower age limit is 18.

Medieval Banquet potential for Ardee Castle – Sheridan

THE potential of Ardee Castle as a medieval banquet experience venue for tourists similar to Bunratty Castle has been discussed with Tourism Ireland in New York.

Ardee Municipal District Cathaoirleach John Sheridan attended meetings with Tourism Ireland as part of the Louth County Council delegation to New York for St Patrick’s Day.

“We met with Tourism Ireland staff in New York who work on promoting Ireland to the United States and Canadian markets. We were impressed that their presentation on Louth included Ardee Castle, the Jumping Church at Kildemock and Sea Louth, the Louth coastline food trail.

“During an extensive discussion on Ardee Castle, we informed Tourism Ireland that reviewing of tenders for the renovation is under way and hopefully construction can start later this year, subject to funding. One route dis-

cussed was the potential for Ardee Castle’s large hall to host medieval banqueting experience events for tourists.”

“This would be a very novel use of Ardee Castle. The renovation will hopefully be underway soon and there is much potential for local and civic events in the Castle. The idea of the Castle being used as an ‘banqueting experience’ would make Ardee a destination for tourists as well as bringing jobs and spending to the town.”

“The current castle dates to the 15th cen-

tury and the significance that both King William and King James stayed at Ardee Castle before the Battle of the Boyne tells a cross-community peace element to the US market.”

“We also discussed the importance of genealogy tourism where older people in the States are travelling with their children and grandchildren to Ireland to explore their roots and genealogy. The recent burial records project in Dowdallshill shows the importance of making these records easily available online to allow

journeys in Ireland to be planned well in advance. Hopefully similar research on burial records can be rolled out to other cemeteries in the county in the future.”

The delegation separately met with Bernadette Lynch, originally from Ardee, who is Office Manager and Marketing Executive with IDA Ireland in New York and has lived there for over 30 years. IDA Ireland are focussed on attracting US companies to bring investment and jobs to Ireland and the benefits of Louth to investors were highlighted by IDA staff and by the Louth County Council delegation.

The Louth County Council delegation included Chief Executive David Conway, Director of Services Thomas McEvoy, County Cathaoirleach Kevin Callan, Ardee MD Cathaoirleach John Sheridan, Dundalk MD Cathaoirleach Seán Kelly and Deputy Mayor of Drogheda Pio Smith.

Bernadette Lynch IDA Ireland and Cllr John Sheridan