10-01-2024 by Peter Kierans

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Betty’s book written from the heart

Miscarriage support group set-up in Dundalk

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HSE advice as respiratory illnesses soar Page 10

Wednesday, 10th January, 2024. Vol. 17, Issue 2 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888. | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Elderly residents feel abandoned By Tamara O’Connell

RESIDENTS at Great Northern Haven apartment complex in Dundalk have expressed concerns about potential structural issues in the building. The Great Northern Haven on Barrack Street was officially opened amid much fanfare in 2010 and was showcased as a demonstration housing project consisting of 16 purpose-built smart homes whih allow older people live longer independently. Each apartment is equipped with a combination of sensor and interactive technology to support AAL for older people to ensure energy eficiency and a fall detection system

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for residents. It is a unique collaboration between the Louth Local Authorities, local Health Service Executive, industry partners, research and development and the older residents. However, according to some of the residents currently living in the Great Northern Haven standards have been let slip through the intervening years and the building now shows signs of masonry damage while the building or apartments haven’t seen a lick of paint since they were first built. Louth County Councillor Conor Keelan raised the matter at a recent Municipal District of Dundalk meeting. Continued on Page 2

The mural of Rohesia De Verdun by artists Studio Giftig has been nominated in the Best of 2023 Street Art Cities Awards. Full story on Page 2.

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Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

Residents at Great Northern Haven apartment complex feel abandoned From Page 1 According to Cllr Keelan, the occupants of the Great Northern Haven are Louth County Council tenants. He asked: “What efforts are underway to fully occupy the building, to source a caretaker, to address structural issues, to inspect the property to address such requests such as painting, parking issues and to clarify the relationship with Cluid/Clann or any AHB?” Director of Services Social Development G Murphy responded to Cllr Keelan’s question. He said: “All units in the Great Northern Haven complex are currently al-

located. The property is managed on a day-to-day basis by Clann. A meeting will be arranged in the coming weeks with the relevant parties in relation to this housing scheme.” On of the residents living at Great Northern Haven who does not wish to be named told the Dundalk Leader, residents are fearful of cracks in the masonry. “The exterior of the building has also not been painted since it was opened. As far as I’m aware, local authorities are supposed to paint the exterior of buildings such as these at least once a decade,” said the resident. “We also need gates because

the area is being used as a parking lot for local pubs in the area. The counter argument to gates being erected is that it would hamper access to the building for ambulances. “But whoever calls for the ambulance, will be able to open the gates to allow access. The main issue is that there are so many cracks in the super structure.”

The resident added: “Residents are worried. Louth is supposed to be an age-friendly county, so why has this place been abandoned? “I know the issues have been raised with the council but residents have not heard from the council about what will be done to address our concerns.” Responding to claims that residents have been left feeling aban-

doned a spokesperson for Clan stated that they always welcome feedback fropm residents and are committed to ensuring any houses they manage are ‘great places to live long into the future’. Clann is Clúid Housing’s age friendly service. Clúid is an independent, not-for-profit charity. Clúid is committed to ensuring our homes and communities remain great places to live long into the future, so as well as responding to reactive repairs, Clúid invests in planned maintenance and cyclical upgrades across all our schemes around the country. We welcome feedback from our residents on how we can improve

their communities, including via our National Residents Advisory Group and Clann Residents Advisory Group, among others. Meanwhile Louth County Council said they were aware of issues and that a meeting was being arranged with relevant parties. “The Great Northern Haven is a Louth County Council owned property but it is managed on our behalf by Clann AHB under a Service Level Agreement Louth County Council Housing Section is aware of issues with the complex and a meeting is being arranged with relevant parties.”

Betty’s book illustrates her love for the Irish language By Tamara O’Connell

LOCAL woman Betty Carder has written and illustrated a wellness book based on traditional Irish sayings known as sean-fhocals. Betty who has lived in Rath, Ardee Road, Dundalk for many years is originally from Co Mayo where she did her education through the Irish language. “The idea for this book called ‘My Heart is Speaking to You’ came about during the pandemic,” said Betty. “Prior to lockdown, I was working on re-learning my Irish and remembering the sean-fhocals. “The book - which is

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called ‘Ta mo chroi ag caint leat’ – is a testimony to my native tongue. Irish was very important to me growing up.” She added: “I also did my secondary school education through Irish but this book is primarily a wellness book. “There is great energy from it, according to anyone who picks it up. If you read it, you get a feeling for it yourself. “The images in the book are my translations and representations of the seanfhocails which are written in both Irish and English.” Betty continued: “Irish is my native tongue and I wanted to continue learning it. The book can be used for meditation.

“It is 24 pages and costs e20. It’s a hardback that also includes a nice foreword by Michael Magennis. “The book was published by Dundalk Book Binding and is now on sale in Roe River Books on Clanbrassil Street, next to Costcutters.” She concluded: “I’m absolutely delighted to see the finished product on to see this book on bookshelves. “I also did a lovely book launch in Louth County Library last month. The book is selling well so I’m considering do a second print run. “I’ve also been booked in to do an on-air interview on LMFM soon. I’m delighted with the way the book has Betty Carder with her new book. turned out.”

Local mural nominated for award THE mural of Rohesia De Verdun by artists Studio Giftig has been nominated in the Best of 2023 Street Art Cities Awards. The mural was created during the most recent SEEK Contemporary Art Festival last summer and can be seen at the side of the Imperial Hotel. Rohesia De Verdun was a Norman noble woman who was born circa 1204, the granddaughter of Betram de Verdun, who was granted substantial lands in Louth after the AngloNorman invasion of 1169. In 1236 she successfully erected Roche Castle just outside Dundalk to defend her lands against Irish raiders: a feat which none of her ancestors had been able to do. Local legend states that she was said to have ordered the master mason thrown from one of the castle windows to prevent his working for anyone else, causing it to be known as the ‘murder window’. Studio Giftig who created

the mural consist of Netherlands based duo Niels van Swaemen and Kaspar Van Leek who have travelled the world together for almost two decades creating magnificent murals in various towns and cities around the world. The mural has been a big hit with Dundalk people, who are being asked to cast their vote so that it will win the award

on the Street Art Cities website which showcases the best of street art from around the world. SEEK Urban Arts Festival was established in 2019. Drawing on the rich heritage of the town – historically, culturally, geographically and mythologically, the vision of the festival was to help people reconnect with some of our unique mo-

ments in history and at the same time enjoy the very visual aspect of the outdoor art gallery they create each year. Organisers expressed their delight that studio Giftig had been recognised for their mural and urged everybody to cast their vote to support the duo. “It’s great to see our very own Rohesia De Verdun mural by the incredible duo Studio Giftig has been nominated in the upcoming #bestof2023 Street Art Cities Awards,” stated Seek Dundalk organisers. “Please cast your vote as this truly specific Dundalk mural deserves the highest praise “Happy New Year from the Seek Dundalk team. Looking forward to the 2024 announcements for this years festival,” read a statement from the organisers. You can vote for the Rohesia De Verdun mural at the following website: https://streetartcities.com/awards/2023.

Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

Significant increase in student bursaries inNEWS Brief to help disadvantaged students

MINISTER for Further and Science Simon the number of student Applications for the and Higher Education, Harris has announced bursaries available to 2023/2024 1916 BursaResearch, Innovation a significant increase in disadvantaged students. ry for students are open now. They are funded through a joint investment by the Irish Government and the European Union under the TOM BELLEW AVENUE European Social Fund Plus. Speaking on Tuesday, Minister Harris said, “As Minister for Further and Higher Education, I am dedicated to making sure that everybody, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to progress to higher Deadline for ‘Applications for Admissions’ education. “Together with the form submission: European Union we are investing €2.4 million, increasing the amount ‘Applications for Admissions’ forms are available of new scholarships to from the school reception and 400 Tier 1 bursaries at a value €5,000 and 200 the school website www.sjns.ie Tier 2 bursaries at a Completed forms must be returned to reception or value of €2000, per year emailed to admissions@sjns.ie of study. “The bursary aims to * Parents with siblings attending St Joseph’s must complete an Application encourage participation for Admissions form if they wish their child to be considered for a place in and success by students the new Junior Infant class in August 2024.* who are most socio-

St Joseph’s National School

ADMISSIONS 2024 ‘Create the best future for your child' 15th January 2024

Minister Simon Harris. economically disadvanThe 1916 Bursary is taged and from groups co-funded by the Demost under-represent- partment of Further ed in higher education. and Higher Education, “The PATH fund has Research, Innovation enabled our institutions and Science and the to create new and in- European Union unnovative programmes der the PATH 2 fundto improve access to ing strand. This means higher education. These there will be provision have been absolutely made for 400 Tier 1 crucial in giving those bursaries of €5,000 with huge potential, with a further 200 Tier who might otherwise 2 bursaries of €2,000 miss out, the opportu- to be awarded to eliginity to go on to higher ble students who have education. commenced their stud-

ies in the 2023/2024 academic year. The bursary aims to encourage participation and success by students who are most socioeconomically disadvantaged and from groups most under-represented in higher education. Applications are now open for the 1916 Bursary 2023-24, across 21 participating higher education institutions and close at 5pm Thursday 25th January 2024. Students need to meet specific criteria, including being a member of one or more of the priority groups outlined in the National Access Plan 2022-2028. Eligibility details and guidelines on how to apply are available at www.1916Bursary.ie. A full list of participating colleges and application links are available at https://1916bursary.ie/ participating-colleges.

Library Events

Alzheimer Café: Join us in Dundalk Library on Tuesday 16th January at 11:00am-12:30pm. Guest Speaker: Collette Carroll from the Memory Clinic, a Demonstration of the Magic Table, Live Music and Refreshments. Contact Dundalk Library on 042-9353190 or libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie. Brigid 1500: Adult Quilling & Paper Workshops with Visual Artist Vivienne Byrne are taking place in Dundalk Library on Wednesday 17th and 24th January at 10:00am-12:00 noon. In these workshops, participants will design their own patch for St. Brigid’s Cloak. They are two separate sessions, call 0429353190 to book your place for the workshop you would like to attend. The Brigid 1500 Workshops are also taking place in Drogheda Library on Tuesday 16th and 23rd January at 10:00am-12:00 noon. Please call 0419876162 to book your place for the workshop you would like to attend. Places are limited and booking is essential.

Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

Miscarriage support group set up in Dundalk

A SOCIAL care worker from Hackballscross has helped to set up a support group for people who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage. Eibhlin Linden, aged 38, became involved with the Miscarriage Association of Ireland after suffering the pain of miscarriage. “I’d gone through miscarriage and loss and I was shocked at the lack of support available at the time,” said Eibhlin. “I was going to Reiki and the woman told me about a WhatsApp group called ‘Unforgotten Angels.’ “It was through that WhatsApp group that I met a woman called Samantha Martin and we decided a support group for miscarriage was badly needed in Louth.” Eibhlin added: “I got in touch with the Irish Miscarriage Association and we set up the Louth support group in September 2023. “Prior to this the Miscarriage Association only had meetings in Dublin and Cork. Now they are operating in Limerick, Clare and Louth. “There is nothing else in any other county. The Irish Miscarriage Association has in-person

Eibhlin Linden. and Zoom meetings and also offers a phone helpline.” She continued: “Now we have a support group set up in Louth. The meetings take place in Dundalk and it’s all run by volunteers. “The only criteria is that volunteers have been through miscarriage. The meetings take place on Park Street. “It’s in the community centre at Louth Leader Partnership next to the Dundalk FM office. The meetings are held once a month.” The Louth miscarriage support meetings in Dundalk are held on a monthly basis, usually from 7pm to 8.30pm. More information about when

the meetings are due to take place can be found on the group’s Facebook and Instagram pages. “It’s all confidential and people can go and sit and listen, or they can share their experience. It doesn’t matter if you had a miscarriage recently or a long time ago,” said Eibhlin. “It doesn’t matter if you had one miscarriage or several. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed since your loss. “You can attend the meetings if you are a single mother, or you can bring your partner or husband along or you can bring a friend or family member for support.” Eibhlin added: “Some people may have had miscarriages years ago but there can be triggers along the way such as due dates and anniversaries. “You don’t have to go to every meeting, you can decide how often you would like to attend. Some people need support at different times. A loss is a loss. “A woman called Emma Walker, a volunteer from Louth, with the Irish Miscarriage Association, helped us to set up the group here. I just want people to know there is support available.”

MIKE DENVER in Concert With Guests Philomena Begley and Brendan Shine

FC Santos beat Muirhevnamor 3-0 in the final of the Winter League’s McGee Cup on Friday 5th Jan. Goals from Tadgh Mooney and a brace from Adam Flynn helped the Dundalk side start 2024 in style as they lifted the McGee cup for the first time in the club’s history.

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was sold in 1960 for £6000 to 1—Can you name the Cork what shoe manufacturer in born Irish actor who won Dundalk? a Golden Globe on Sunday evening for Best Performance 6—What was the name of the by an Actor in a Motion Picture 16-year old who sensationally reached the final of the PDC (Drama)? World Darts Championship 2—What is the name of the biggest technology company last week? 7—On the 27th March 2020 in South Korea? what major announcement 3—What is the name given did the government make to to Indian food cooked over the Irish people? charcoal in a clay oven? 8—What country is Brie 4—The Old Testament was cheese originally from? written in which language? 5—The site of the old Athletic 9—What type of nut is at the centre of a Ferrero Rocher? Grounds on the Ramparts

10—Which town is furthest south? Ballinasloe or Athlone? The Stinker—What was the first ever song/video to be played on music station MTV when it launched in 1981?

—ANSWERS— 1—Cillian Murphy (Openheimer), 2— Samsung, 3—Tandoori, 4—Hebrew, 5—Hallidays/Clarke’s, 6—Luke Littler, 7—Ireland was put into full lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, 8— France, 9—Hazlenut, 10—Ballinsasloe. The Stinker: Video Killed the Radio Star by The Buggles

Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

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Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

Jane & Jacquie from Louth OPC with Ger Walsh and Aine McNamee HSE & Garda Austin Kelly.

Council celebrate work of the Older People’s Council in 2023 LOUTH County Council celebrated the achievements of the Older People’s Council (OPC) during 2023 at the final meeting of the year held in Ardee Civic Offices recently. OPC members met with local Community Garda, Austin Kelly, who gave them an overview of community policing in Ardee & Mid Louth and spoke about the new Garda structures in County Louth. Ger Walsh and Aine McNamee from the HSE gave the members a presentation on the Living Well Programme, a peer to peer support training programme for those living with long term health conditions. A number of Living Well programmes are set to be rolled out across Louth in 2024. The members also met with Adrienne McCann who is the New Healthy Homes Co Ordi-

nator for Louth. Adrienne outlined her new role as part of the Age Friendly Programme. The programme is a collaboration between the Dept. of Health and the Dept. of Local Government. It aims to enable older people to continue living in their homes or in a home more suited to their needs, live with a sense of independence and autonomy, be and feel a part of their communities and support the avoidance of early or premature admission to long term residential care. The Louth Older People’s Council (OPC) was established in March of 2023 to represent the voice of older people in Louth. It replaced the Older People’s Forum which was previously in place. The OPC is a key structure of the local Age Friendly Programme. OPC members discuss issues of interest and concern to

older people in County Louth. The OPC brings issues and areas of concerns to the Age Friendly Alliance, and it informs and influences the decision-making process in the Age Friendly Programme. The Louth OPC has met several times this year and has discussed a wide variety of issues which pertain to older people in County Louth. Joe Grogan Chair of the OPC noted that “OPC members discussed and raised concerns around transport, ageism, and safety and security and these issues were raised with the Alliance. In addition, the OPC as part of the Age Friendly Programme supported the preparation of 300 Christmas Bags for distribution to older and vulnerable people across Co Louth.”

New house prices ‘out of control’ states Ó Murchú

THE price of a new house in Louth is ‘out of control’, according to Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú, who said the government’s ‘failure to deliver affordable homes is making the crisis worse’. The Dundalk TD was responding to the latest Daft.ie house price report which shows that the average price of a new build home in Louth was €364,353 over nine months of 2023. Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘The Daft.ie report on house prices in Q4 2023 shows that the price of an average home continues to rise. Across the state the price of an average home rose 3.4% in the last 12 months to €320,000. In Louth the average price of a home is now €270,888, a rise of 0.2%, compared to the last quarter of 2022. ‘The report also highlights a worrying drop in the number of homes listed in December compared with the previous year, by

a significant 27%. ‘However, the most startling fact in the report is the price of new build homes. There is now almost a 30% difference between the price of an average new home and overall average prices. ‘In the State, the price of an average new home is €407,000, €80,000 more expensive than the average for new and secondhand homes combined. ‘In Louth, the average price of a new build home is now €364,353, 34.5% more than the average price of a home. ‘The gap between new and second hand homes is enormous and growing. This is a direct consequence of bad Government policy, demand side subsidies such as so called ‘Help to Buy’, and the controversial Shared Equity Loan scheme, all pushing up new house prices. ‘All the while, there are people paying astronomical rents, when they are lucky enough to find

somewhere to live, making home ownership an even more impossible dream. ‘Meanwhile the Government’s failure to deliver on their embarrassingly low affordable purchase targets is making the crisis worse. ‘In Louth this year, just ten affordable homes will be ready for applicants this month, in Blackrock. There is no word as to how any more will be delivered, or when. ‘The government needs to get serious on providing more affordable housing, and cost rental housing. ‘Government policy must shift to bringing the price of new homes down. They must end policies that push up house prices and they must increase and accelerate the delivery of genuinely affordable homes by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies, at prices that working people can genuinely afford’.

Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

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Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

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Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM

McDONNELL Paddy 10th ANNIVERSARY Tenth anniversary of Paddy McDonnell, late of Grey Acre Road, Newtownbalregan, Dundalk, which occurred on 7th of January. He is still missed deeply by his wife Bried and his six children Pamela, Gerald, Tara, Barry, Derrick and Therese. Eight grandchildren Aine, Catherine, Aoife, Hannah, Katie, Matthew, Sophie and Tadgh. The song but be over, But the melody will live on. —Love you forever Mo laoch (my hero).

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MARMION Garrett 51st ANNIVERSARY Cherished memories of our baby son Garrett, who died 10th January, 1973. Precious are our memories of you today and always. —Lovingly remembered by Mammy and Daddy.

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

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

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HSE issue advice on respiratory illnesses (Flu and COVID-19) PROTECT yourself and others - Vaccination and good infection and prevention control measures remain key in reducing transmission of respiratory illnesses HSE Dublin and North East is urging the public to follow public health advice – if you have respiratory symptoms stay at home until 48 hours after your major symptoms have resolved and get vaccinated as high levels of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses are currently circulating in the community. Dr Suzanne Cotter, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Public Health HSE Dublin and North East, said: “The surge of respiratory illnesses in the community is putting significant pressure on our health services across the region. We know from previous years that a delayed

peak in flu season such as we are seeing now, will inevitably lead to further pressures throughout the health services with heightened risk of outbreaks in healthcare settings.” “If you are unwell you should stay home until 48 hours after your major symptoms have resolved; avoid visiting people who are more vulnerable if you are unwell, especially avoid visiting hospitals or residential care facilities if unwell. As schools and childcare facilities reopen this week we also ask parents and guardians

to keep their children home from school/ crèche if they have respiratory symptoms.” “We remind people about good infection control practice, including washing hands regularly and covering nose and mouth if you have coughs and sneezes. “Vaccination remains the best way to reduce the incidence or these respiratory illnesses. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by two different viruses and require two different vaccines. The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vacci-

nated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible. People with long-term health conditions, healthcare workers (HCWs) and children aged 2-17 can avail of free vaccination. You can get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. For information on COVID-19 and flu vaccination and to find where to get your vaccines, visit the HSE. ie or call HSELive on 1800 700 700,” added Dr Cotter. Other options available if you are feeling unwell or are injured are: Community Pharmacies: GPs and GP Out-ofHours Services: Minor Injury Units: See the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats and information on how to keep well in winter.

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SPECIAL SERVICES

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. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702. CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning. ie. ROOFING AND BUILDING—contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358. 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 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10 - 2pm. WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478. Please note, we do not repair Clocks. CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVICES— Over 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Available services: Doors, Frames, Floors, Skirting, Architraves, Walls, Built in Units, Fencing/Gates, Plaster boarding and Roofing Services. Complete renovations carried out. Contact Mark 086 0895508. POWER WASHING/Garden Services - all garden tidy ups, lawns, hedges, pathways, Gutters, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048. MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728. ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE services carried out. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Gerry your local man 087 6461556 or 042 9327241 after 6pm. MAN IN A VAN—House moves, furniture delivery/removal, yard/garage clearances, recycling & rubbish removal. Call Will on 085 860 4048 for a competitive quote. JEWELLERY PARTIES—Top commissions paid, contact Alan, Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Complex, Dundalk. Tel 042 9339478 Mob 087 3898908 or Email—goldstarjewellersdundalk@gmail.com. POWER WASHING SERVICES—Winter appointments still available with Blackrock Power Washing. Get your patios cleaned before Christmas! Call Brian Minogue on 087 965 4044. CLIENT CENTERED COUNSELLOR—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.

MAN WITH A VAN available for Garage, House & Garden Clearance, Furniture Removals, also Power Washing and Interior & Exterior Painting. Tel Brian 087 7558506

MOTORS FOR SALE 192 SUZUKI VITARA—1.0ltr petrol, 73,000km, nct’d till June’25, full service history, full service done 9-1-24 immaculate condition. Tel 085 2761953.

SPECIAL SERVICES CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094. CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact Cathal 087-2259799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>. HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie <http:// www.everkleenservices.ie>. TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote. GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085840-7707. FORTUNE TELLER—Available for appointment, private or group bookings. Tel. Alison 042 933 5102 or 087-6751229. 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.

SITUATIONS WANTED LADY AVAILABLE for light housework. Blackrock area only. Rate €11 per hour. Non-smoker. Call 0863502686.

CLASSES & COURSES 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. “PARENTING WITH MAISIE”—Learn tools to guide your child to happiness, success, high self-esteem and assertiveness in the 21st century. This hugely successful ten week programme provides insight to how best understand all human behaviour and equips us to deal with challenging situations. It begins Wednesday 24th January at 7:30pm. For details please phone Maisie on 087 2100620. DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228. SEWING CLASSES ongoing at Northlink retail park, Monday to Friday, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations.com. “KNOW THYSELF”—Break out of the box your personality keeps you in! Personal development through the Enneagram. This ten week programme begins Thursday 25th January at 7:30pm. For details please phone Maisie on 087 2100620. FRENCH GRINDS AVAILABLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340. FRENCH/SPANISH GRINDS available in Dundalk. Experienced examiner and teacher. Email sophiep@gcdd.ie. TONY HUMPHREYS—“Effective Parenting of ‘Self’ and Children”. This course focuses on personal development, improving family relationships and developing your parenting skills. This hugely successful programme is facilitated by Maisie McGuinness. For details please phone 087 2100620.

ADVERTISE IN OUR CLASSIFIEDS to over

60,000 readers

from only €5 per week up to 20 words

042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

Féile na Tána 2024

HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Harp Heaven. Michelle Mulcahy with students from her Harp Class during Feile Na Tana 2023. MUSIC lovers in County Louth and beyond will be delighted to welcome back renowned cultural festival, Féile na Tána, which is now celebrating it’s tenth year, and is announcing over a week of amazing events taking place across the region from Sunday 28th Jan to Monday 5th February 2024. The Cooley Peninsula is busy getting all the final touches in place to welcome over 35 musicians, singers, poets, dancers, and over a hundred enthusiastic music students who are taking part in the festival which celebrates the rich regional and national heritage of traditional arts. Highlights this year include a concert with three giants of Irish traditional music, Paddy Keenan on uilleann pipes, Paddy Glackin on fiddle and Steve Cooney on guitar on Sunday 28th January at 4pm in Carlingford Heritage Centre. On Thursday 1st February there will be a very special evening to celebrate St. Brigid’s Day with performances by Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre on fiddle and guitar alongside singer

Mary Bergin. Cathie Ryan accompanied by Matt Mancuso on guitar and fiddle, and speaking about the links of St. Brigid to the area is local historian, Seamus Murphy. Féile na Tána have commissioned renowned composer, Peadar Ó Riada to compose a piece especially for a concert taking place on Friday 2nd February which will also feature Cork sean nós singer, Máire Ní Chéileachair and the Harps Alive Cross Border Harp Ensemble in association

with Harp Ireland. Due to huge demand year on year, Bush Post Primary School will host 13 workshops from 2-5pm on Saturday 3rd February. Most workshops are for more advanced players with 3 years or more experience on their instrument, however, even beginners will be able to join the easy tin-whistle, singing or sean-nós dancing classes. The tutors, as always, are world renowned and you will see why if you come along to the concert on Saturday 3rd February at 8pm in St. Michael’s Hall, Carlingford, Co. Louth with Mary Bergin and Máirtín O’Connor Mícheal Ó Raghallaigh, Michael Rooney and Edwina Guckian Blaithín Mhic Cana and Donnchadh Mac Aodha Dónal O’Connor, Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn and Nuala Kennedy and Tara Breen, Enda Scahill and Robbie Harris – they are sure to raise the roof! Workshops on offer include fiddle with Louth fiddler, Dónal O’Connor, tin-whistle with Mary Bergin, uilleann pipes

with Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn, harp with Michael Rooney, singing with Bláithín Mhic Cana, flute with Nuala Kennedy, banjo with Enda Scahill, accordian with Máirtín O’Connor and many more. In a return to Féile na Tána, Poetry Ireland are presenting a very special afternoon event on our new bank holiday, Monday 5th February at 4pm, featuring Aosdána poet, Moya Cannon with uilleann piper, Séamus Ó Rócháin entitled ‘Drawing From the Vernacular’ at Carlingford Heritage Centre. For more information and to book, head over to the website, www. feilenatana.com. Féile na Tána is very proud of its association with renowned local musicians, Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre, who again as artistic directors have curated events of the highest level from many of our leading traditional artists. Many thanks also to The Arts Council and Create Louth for their continued support, and collaborators Poetry Ireland, Harp Ireland and Music Generation Louth. Bígí linn!

SUB AQUA CLUB MEMBERS BRAVE THE COLD WATERS FOR RECREATIONAL DIVE—Local Sub Aqua Club members made the drive out to Carlingford Lough last weekend with a heavy fog coming in and temperatures as low as minus 2°. Divers from Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue were kitted up & ready for the chilly waters. This was no ordinary recreational dive/or part of the groups continued training. This was a compulsory fit to dive exercise that all divers must undertake as part of CFT requirements. 28 Divers took part, of which they had to tow a diver in distress, snorkel, swim to shore among other things.

JANUARY SALE Dundalk Leader 10th January 2024

30%OFF

HIGH GRADE ITALIAN SUITES Limited Stock

JUST SOME OF OUR OFFERS AVAILABLE IN OUR JANUARY SALE