10-05-2023

Counsellors support reaches new heights

By Tamara O’Connell

TWO women have teamed up to do a skydive in aid of Turas, a Dundalk charity which supports people in their recovery from alcohol and drug addiction.

Chloe Rowland (Turas Project Worker) from Kilkerley and Leah Weich (Turas Dual Diagnosis Case Manager) from Phoenix, Arizona are Turas team members planning to jump out of plane for the fundraiser on the 1st of July Turas is a charity based on Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk which offers counselling, community detox, and group supports.

“Turas also provides

outdoor therapies, creative therapies, and a Transformational Recovery Programme,” said Chloe.

It will be Leah’s second skydive, but her first skydive in Ireland. She had originally planned to do it in February with her friend, Vanessa, who was visiting from the States. However, the jump had to be cancelled due to weather conditions and Vanessa had to return home.

She was very disappointed but luckily, her Turas team member, Chloe Rowland, saved the day by offering to do a skydive with her in May.

Continued on Page 2

Chloe Rowland and Leah Weich Turas team members who are

to do a skydive later this month.

Counsellors support reaches new heights

From Page 2

“We are dedicating our jump with Skydive Ireland to all of our courageous clients who took the even bigger jump of reaching out to Turas for support in their recovery from drugs and alcohol,” she said.

“Some of our clients have offered to join in and help with fundraising and jump too. They are going to reach new heights in the recovery process.”

Every donation received will help to fund Turas’ services. Turas started one of Ireland’s first dual diagnosis programmes, bridging the gap between mental health and substance use

treatment. Donations received through Skydive for Turas will help to fund essential community services, like free addiction counselling, community-based detox, medical care, relapse prevention, harm reduction, nature-based and creative therapies, weekly recovery support groups and our 15week Transformational Recovery Programme. Dual diagnosis addresses the health/social care inequalities experienced by people who are especially vulnerable.

For more information and to donate please visit the following links www.turascounselling.ie/donate or email

fundraising@turascounselling.ie

You can also find the Skydive for Turas fundraising page on Enthuse: https://turascounselling.enthuse. com/cf/skydive-for-turas-july-2023

If you are worried about your gambling, alcohol or drug use, please get in touch with Turas today - info@ turascounselling.ie or 042 933 8221.

Turas Website: www. turascounselling.ie Facebook: @ TurasSupport Instagram: @turasdundalk.

Robert Nash selected to replace Maria Doyle on Louth County Council

RobeRt Nash has been selected by Fine Gael to replace Maria Doyle as councillor in the Dundalk South Local electoral Area. Robert’s selection follows the resignation of Ms Doyle in February.

He will be formally coopted to Louth County Council at the local authority’s monthly meeting next Monday. Robert, a firefighter with Louth County Council Fire and Rescue, is married to tara and they have five children. He is vice chairman and underage mentor of Na Piarsaigh blackrock GAA club and underage soccer coach with bay FC, and is also an active member of bay estate residents committee and Avenue Road Development Group.

Robert said: “I got involved in Fine Gael as my great grandfather, James (Duker) Coburn, was a founder member of the party in 1933. “He was successful in seven successive elections from 1933 up until 1951.

After his death in 1954, his son George won the subsequent by-election, still the only by-election in Louth to

this day. “George left politics in 1957 and emigrated to england but the love of politics was passed down to me. “James Coburn was a hard worker, a trade unionist. He believed the working person should be looked after. these are values very close to my own heart.

“I thoroughly enjoy working and developing the young people in my area. the younger generation are our future. “they must be included - be it in sport or politics. I believe community engagement and outlets for teenagers require better development in our area and I will advocate strongly for this.

“I firmly believe that to be successful in the next local elections, we need dynamic candidates who appeal to and engage with younger voters. “the younger generation are more interested than ever in politics and I believe I am the right candidate in Dundalk South to engage with them and continue to develop our communities,” Robert concluded.

Chloe Rowland and Leah Weich.

Robert Nash with his wife Tara. at the Fine Gael Convention last Friday evening.

ThE issue of the difficulties faced by disabled drivers with current legislation was highlighted in Leinster house last week by Dundalk TD Ruairí Ó Murchú, who spoke about a constituent who is facing problems.

The Sinn Féin deputy was speaking during a debate on a Private Members’ Motion tabled by the Rural Independents.

Deputy Ó Murchú said the Dáil had been talking for a long time about the need to reform schemes around transport for people with disabilities.

he said he had spoken to a woman in Dundalk who is a family friend and personal assistance for a young woman who has been several years on the scheme as a passenger.

he said: ‘The young woman has a primary medical cert and has been on the scheme years, she has a car exempt under her father’s name who passed away a few months ago.

‘For the last six years, this friend has been the young woman’s driver for medical appointments as her father only drove a

short distance and she has several medical appointments in Dublin due to her cerebral palsy and spina bifida.

‘The car, a Peugeot Expert Independence, is already exempt. The issue is the young woman cannot avail of the scheme now since her father passed away as the logbook of the car needs to be in the person’s name availing of the scheme.

‘If it put into the young wom-

an’s name she cannot get her vehicle insured as she doesn’t drive and her friend cannot insure it as she is not legally on the log book.

‘If the car is in the friend’s name, because she is not legally a relative of the woman, she cannot avail of the scheme as it states it needs to be a family member.

‘It’s her car but just as a driver; the friend has been denied insurance if the vehicle is in the young name’.

The TD said that schemes need to be created, inside a proper framework that will ‘allow people to be all they can be to make sure they can live their lives as best they can and can go to the necessary medical appointments and far beyond.

he said: ‘We are affecting people’s lives in a detrimental way. I assume everybody in this Chamber does not want this to be the case so we need to get our heads together and ensure there is some form of streamlining and that we give citizens the rights they deserve. I will be back to the minister regarding this issue’.

Difficulties faced by disabled drivers raised in Dáil by O’Murchú School teacher warns of danger of vaping

A DUNDALK secondary school principal is warning teenagers about the dangers of vaping and e cigarettes.

Sinn Fein Councillor and Colaiste Chu Chulainn Principal thomas Sharkey said vaping and e cigarettes are the equivalent to nicotine and tobacco in school policies.

“that means they are not tolerated and their use is a serious offence. Vapes as we see them currently should be banned,” said thomas.

“education leaders have been voicing concern about the growth in valine amongst young people for some time.

“there is a visible increase in the availability of vapes in

our town. Vape shops and vape stalls are appearing across Dundalk.”

He added: “these nicotine products in their flavours, prices, names, and colours are bla-

tantly targeting children. this is immoral and intolerable.

“the health risk of young people using nicotine have been known for generations. banning vapes should require no debate. that discussion is over. Prohibition needs to be implemented.

“Children buying vapes are usually using money their parents give them. Parents and shopkeepers have a crucial role in protecting the health of our young people.”

In Ireland, legislation to ban the sale of vapes to under 18s is expected to be passed in mid-July. Vaping products are already banned in a number of european countries.

Ruairí Ó Murchú, tD.

Thomas Sharkey.

St. Nicholas Quarter and Backlands Phase One

LOuTh County Council has announced the appointment of BDP Ltd as the Architectural Lead Design Consultants for the St. Nicholas Quarter and Backlands Phase 1 Regeneration Scheme.

This first phase of the project consists of the Public Realm works to the Northern Gateway, Bridge Street, Linenhall Street, Northgate Street and the Peace Park at the Fairgreen. These works will regenerate and transform St. Nicholas Quarter building upon its rich history, heritage, and the natural quality of the local environment. The planned works will enhance the experience of people living and visiting this area of Dundalk making it more attractive to the local community, members of the public, businesses, investors and tourists.

The project will include the prioritisation of pedestrians and cyclists, including traffic calming measures and providing for a more environmentally sustainable community.

Speaking about the project, Kevin McGann Landscape Architect from BDP said, ‘’This project will see enhancements to the public realm in this area of Dundalk that will instil positive

change in terms of universal accessibility and a revitalised streetscape. It will also complete the link between Market

Square and Dundalk Bridge seeing upgraded footpaths and carriageway to Bridge Street, Linenhall hall Street and

the Fair Green. We should hope that this project will provide a cohesive character to the area that has a positive effect

Triduum in Honour of Our Lady of Fatima

“My Immaculate Heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to God”. - Our Lady to Blessed Lucia 11th to 13th May

D OM i N ica N Friary, Du ND alk

Thursday, 11th May: Mass 10am and 6.15pm Friday, 12th May: Mass 10am and 6.15pm (Sacrament of Sick during both Masses)

Saturday, 13th May: Mass 10am and 6.15pm this year’s preached is Fr damian Polly, OP All WelcOme!!

on businesses and residents.”

Chief Executive, Joan Martin welcomed the signing at County hall saying: “I welcome the appointment of BDP as Architectural Lead consultants for the St. Nicholas Quarter Phase 1 scheme. The regeneration of this historic part of Dundalk has been a strategic objective of Louth County Council for many years, and when complete it will provide a streamlined town centre experience from Market Square through to the northern end of town, making it an appealing accessible hub to live, shop, work and visit.”

Catherine Duff, Director of Services for Louth County Council, “This appointment of BDP is a significant milestone in the St. Nicholas Quarter and Backlands Project. This initial phase 1 works will build upon the great success achieved from the recent Clanbrassil Street Public Realm project and help promote growth and investment in the St. Nicholas Quarter. This project will enhance the lives of the people living and working in Dundalk and bring much needed economic development that will sustain the town into the future”.

De La Salle students receive visit from Mickey harte

De la Salle staff and students were honoured and delighted last tuesday to welcome Mickey Harte to our school. Conor Mc Guinness in 6th Year interviewed Mickey for our school magazine. Sixty students including our Lennon Cup team listened in.

Mickey was truly inspiring in relation to both sport and life in

general with plenty of take home messages on resilience and perseverance. Many thanks to Mickey for making the time to visit and to Peter Fitzpatrick for organising for us. It was a brilliant afternoon. the full interview will be available in the school magazine “ Insignia 2023” available on the school website www.delasalle.ie.

Students ben Gartland and Conor McGuinness with Mickey Harte.

Back row: enda O’halloran, administrative Officer procurement; Cllr Kevin Meenan; Olivia McCormack, SeO public Realm; Kevin McGann, BDp; Catherine Duff, DOS and Chris Kelly, executive engineer, public Realm. front: Cllr Conor Keelan, Joan Martin, Ce and Micha.

Dundalk cricket club return to action

AFTER coming second in the 22 Season, Dundalk Cricket Club (DCC) is gearing up to win the league, make cricket more accessible to everyone and spread the sport to all!

2022 was a very successful year for Dundalk Cricket Club. They returned to action after a 3-year break from league competition due to many challenges. The club had to shut down due to covid, was subjected to multiple instances of vandalism, and faced tough financial challenges with no membership fees to bank on! Despite all these hurdles, the clubs’ committee and playing members showed great resilience and bounced back in 2022 using innovative ways to keep afloat. This included mul-

tiple digital fund-raising efforts, sponsorships and immense help from local businesses and institutions.

Last year DCC had a total of 12 League Games and six T20 games. The club finished as strong runners up in the league with some very impressive scores throughout the season. h strong performances in the previous season and growing interest in the game especially from those new to the sport, youth and female players, Dundalk CC decided to enter two teams in the league for 2023! The first team will give skilled players an opportunity to play highly competitive cricket while the 2nd team will be ideal for those who want to return to the sport and enjoy

it again. It will also be a talent pool for players to graduate onto the first team. DCC is keen to find talented young players from local schools to join. DCC will be starting their Youth Training Programme from Mid-May so invites all young players to sign up!

With the first league game round the corner, the club already has an impressive membership of 37 players and welcomes everyone come forward and join.

This week Dundalk Cricket were also delighted to unveil their League games’ White Kit. They would like to thank ThE GRAFTON BARBER for being their prime League Games sponsor! They also showcased their

T20 coloured kit courtesy of their T20 games local sponsors Marhaba Food Store, Phones X2, Sitar Indian Restaurant and Therapeutic Touch.

The club is located off Carrickmacross Road in hiney Park, just behind Oriel Park. The club has practice and coaching during weekday evenings and some weekends with games being held on weekends. The first team will be competing in Division 13 and 2nd Team in Division 19! Visit www.dundalkcricket. com to find out more and send them an email at contact@dundalkcricket.com to show your interest in the game of cricket! We would like to wish them all the best for the first game and the whole season!

Marist students excel in Irish language competition

Louth County Council Library Service celebrating Bealtaine Festival

LoUtH County Council Library Service is running a number of fantastic events throughout the month of May to celebrate the bealtaine Festival - Ireland’s national festival which celebrates the arts and creativity as we age. the festival is run by Age & opportunity, the leading national development organisation which provides opportunities for older people to be more creative and engage in cultural and creative life.

the event was launched in Drogheda Library on Friday last, May 5th at a lunchtime recital with music by the Drogheda Male Voice Choir, led by musical director David Leddy .

Mr. Shane Quinn Molly O’Callaghan and Charlie Mcnamee.

ThERE was tremendous success for Molly O’Callaghan and Charlie McNamee from St. Mary’s College in the final of Gael Linn’s prestigious ‘Abair’ Irish public speaking competition recently. The final was held in Aonach Mhacha in Armagh City.

Molly and Charlie qualified for the final having previously

achieved first and second place in the regional bout held in Newry in February. Speakers from across the nine counties of ulster and Co. Louth compete in the annual cross-border competition.

Competitors on the day had to speak about a topical issue as Gaeilge for three minutes each.

In the final Molly spoke about her chosen topic of ‘Ba cheart

deireadh a chur le hobair bhaile’/ ‘We should abolish homework’, while Charlie spoke about ‘Turasóireacht in Éirinn’ / ‘Tourism in Ireland’.

They gave excellent performances on the day and were delighted to win both first and second place in the junior section of the competition. Comhghairdeas mór leo!

For those with a green thumb, Mary bell Ryan will provide Flower Arranging demonstrations where attendees will learn the techniques of creating fabulous floral displays. the demonstrations will take place in Dundalk Library on tuesday May 9th at 2pm, Ardee Library on thursday May 11th at 11am, and in Drogheda Library on Monday May 15th at 3pm.

booking is essential; please contact your local library branch (listed below) to book your place.

Dundalk and Drogheda Libraries would like to welcome all quizzers to the welcome return of the bealtaine table Quiz. the quiz takes place in Drogheda Library on tuesday May 16th at 2:30pm, and in Dundalk Library on thursday May 18th at 2:30pm. teams can be made up of 3 or 4 people, or you can attend alone and join a team on the day. No booking is required.

For those who are interested in exploring their family history, Drogheda Library’s local studies expert will be providing a free genealogical and family history consultation on a one-to-one basis. Sessions will be held on tuesday 9th and thursday 18th May between 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm. booking is essential, please contact Drogheda Library to book your place.

A ‘Healthy Ireland exercise and Ageing’ event will be held in Dundalk and Ardee Libraries on Wednesday May 24th as part of the celebra-

tions. Paul bolger of Nano Physio will lead talks for older adults about physiotherapy in Dundalk Library at 11am and in Ardee library at 2:30pm. Please call your local branch to book your place.

Finally, Louth Library Service has been delighted over the past number of weeks to host the Creative Spark project on the theme of ‘Decade of Centenaries’. this project brings together fifteen local artists who have each created a unique handmade artist book in response to the collection at the Louth Archives. the project is displayed on a large bookshelf shaped like a book, and will be on display in Ardee Library throughout the month where the community can browse through each artist’s book.

For more information, or to book your place at these events please contact your local library branch: Dundalk Library (042-9353190); Drogheda Library (0419876162); Ardee Library 0416879023.

Theo books his ticket for Junk Kouture Grand Finals

DUNDALK Grammar School student theo Connolly will travel to London for the Junk Kouture World Finals after he was selected as one of ten Irish finalists at the finals night in the 3 Arena last week. the fifth year student from blackrock wowed the judges with his creation entitled ‘Le Nouveau Riche’ booking his

place in the top ten and thus booking his ticket to the World Finals. His outfit of a white gown and a mask was inspired by illustrations of the 16th and 17th century Plague Doctors, using waste from vaccination centres. theo will now will battle it out against 50 other teams from Abu Dhabi, London, Paris,

Milan and New York in London to become the World Designer of the Year.

In the end, 10 hautecouture designs made from 100% recycled materials were chosen by Louis Wash, Keilidh Cashell, tara Kumar and Stephen McLaughlin to compete at the 2023 Junk Kouture World Final

in ovo Arena Wembley in London on 12th october.

Junk Kouture is a television fashion competition for post-primary school students, where participants design, create and model fashion, made from recycled items. the competition has run in Ireland, since it was founded in 2010.

theo’s creating entitled ‘Le nouveau Riche’ was chosen as one of the grand finalists.

Members of Dundalk Cricket Club in their newly sponsored jerseys. the club are on the lookout for new members.

huge turnout for Darkness into Light

By Tamara O’Connell

DARKNeSS Into Light Dundalk took place on Saturday, May 6 at 4.15am from Dundalk Institute of technology’s campus.

Maxol Dublin Road opened from 4am and provided complimentary jambons and sausage rolls for the first 500 people in after the event from 5am wearing yellow.

Around 60 people from the local Swimhatters Group got together for a dip and swam in the sea at templetown to mark Darkness Into Light 2023.

Many people choose to take on a challenge for Darkness Into Light. Participants can jog, swim or kayak for Darkness Into Light.

You can also join the Darkness Into Light Facebook challenge, 5k a day in May or create your own challenge for Darkness Into Light.

Darkness Into Light asks that you commit to raising €200 for Pieta and people affected by suicide and selfharm.

Many people raise much more than this – the average is almost €300. there were over

200 official walks for Darkness Into Light in 2023 across 15 countries spanning five continents.

Participants can also take part in Darkness Into Light In Your own Way by walking into sunrise in their local area with friends, family or colleagues or simply sharing a sunrise moment with your loved ones.

Darkness Into Light 2023, was proudly supported by electric Ireland.

participants during Saturday morning’s Darkness Into Light event.

IF ever I hear of someone who has died by suicide now, my first thought is of their family and loved ones and what a terrible journey lies ahead of them. No words can describe this journey: despair, darkness, desolation capture it only to a small degree.

The question that everyone who has travelled this route usually begins with is, ‘Why? - a question that can never be answered becoming a lonely scream in the dark that nobody hears - an inner wail that can never be calmed.

This question is usually followed at breakneck speed by the awful questions, ‘Why didn’t I spot it?’ ‘Why didn’t I stop it?’ If ever I was to give words of comfort to families and friends who have lost someone through suicide, I would tell them in total honesty that the answer to these questions is – because family and friends are the last people to know. Many people say that their loved one showed no signs of suicidal intent. They are right; the loved one in distress was trying to protect them.

I felt an overwhelming sense of guilt. With all deaths, there are regrets about not spending more time with the person who died, or being kinder when they were alive, but suicide comes with a particular type of guilt that will forever remain. Regrets circle endlessly: I should have known; I could have prevented it; why didn’t I listen harder or take them seriously? Guilt is the one emotion that eats away at your core.

Every day I would surround myself with books and articles on suicide. With every article and every book, I read on the subject, however, I was becoming increasingly despondent, feeling increasingly guilty, because I was learning that the death of the person, I was grieving might have been prevented. I became depressed. I was functioning on a basic level. I would continue to leave my children off to school, but I would go back to bed immediately after-

wards. Over the days, weeks, and months that followed, regardless of what I read, I wasn’t getting any relief. That is, until one day.

As usual, I was lying on my bed and the children were at school. I found myself surrounded by books. These were about bereavement, depression, mental health and, of course, suicide. On that morning, however, for some reason I picked up a book that was not about any of those topics. This book dealt with art through the centuries revealing remarkable paintings and sculptures. One artist whom I will never forget: Michelangelo. This young man, at just twenty-three years of age, had carved a sculpture out of one large piece of marble. his main model of inspiration was a woman called Mary of Nazareth. This humble, ordinary woman became the focus of the sculpture, the Pietà. housed in the Sistine Chapel in Rome, the Pietà shows Mary, a mother, cradling the dead, broken body of her crucified son. His lifeless body is sprawled across her lap, while she looks intently into his face.

This incredible sculpture held something truly magical for me –staring at the mother’s expression was an epiphany for me. It was the look of incredibly tender, compassionate acceptance written on her face that made me sit upright and

realise that this is what our country needed. We needed a Pietà in every community so that we, too, could look on people who were in distress with tenderness and compassionate understanding.

It was a light-bulb moment that made me jump out of bed. With this ‘look’ of compassion still in my head, I ran down to Lucan village to Kieran Brady’s office. Kieran is an auctioneer whom I knew, admired, and trusted. I told him I wanted to buy a house. What I had in mind was a house where the person in crisis would be embraced and held until they could walk on their own again. A professional service that would provide a new therapeutic model, which would view people as people in shortterm crisis rather than people who needed medical intervention.

After listening intently to me, he said with great wisdom, ‘Joan, what you want is to create a charity.’

After my conversation with Kieran, I spoke to my brother John Lowe (who later became known as the Money Doctor). They both convinced me to start a charity, an organisation that would help people in suicidal crisis, openly, compassionately and with incredible acceptance. In January 2006 Pieta house opened its doors.

That was my beginning, and yet every new milestone for Pieta house became the beginning. Every person who wanted to take up the baton, or who wanted to take a service to their community, every person who was drowning in grief and wanted to atone for their loss – that was a new beginning. The following stories are from the people who made that new beginning – who made Pieta house and, indeed, Darkness into Light the incredibly soothing and hopeful light it is today.

Extracted from Darkness into Light: A Nations’ Response by Joan Freeman. Published by Beehive Books. Available nationwide.

Sgt a. Barron, Gda K. Kelly, Gda n.Gaffney and Gda R.McGlynn pictured at ardee parish Centre

Ruairi’O’Murchú tD (yellow t-shirt) with the Darkness Into Light Organising committee.

James, Kim and ursula Shevlin with tara

Swimmers at the Darkness into Light event at templetown Beach. Pic credit: Sheila o’Hanlon.

Darkness into Light founder Jane Freeman details how her personal response to the nightmare of suicide created Pieta house

Firefighters to climb Crowne Plaza 223 times for charity

LOCAL firefighters are planning to climb the steps of the Crowne Plaza hotel in Dundalk 223 times to reach the same height as Mount Everest in a bid to raise €10,000 for charity.

Dundalk Fire & Rescue firefighter Ross Bell told the Dundalk Leader that the fundraiser is due to take place on Saturday, June 17 from 10am. Ross, who lives in Carlingford, is one of ten firefighters from Co Louth taking part in the awe-inspiring Everest Challenge.

“We are going to take it in teams of two or three to tackle the 58,070 steps

needed to reach the same height as Mount Everest,” said Ross.

The firefighters are raising money for three deserving charities: Sosad Dundalk, Northeast Cancer Research & Education Trust (NECRET), and Save our homeless Dundalk.

Ross has a strong passion for helping those in need and has previously raised funds for Sosad Dundalk by walking 24km barefoot from Carlingford to Dundalk over the Cooley Mountains, raising an impressive €4,605.

“We will ascend the stairs of the hotel in full

fire gear, simulating the gruelling conditions of climbing a mountain,” said Ross.

It will be a physically demanding task that will test their endurance, strength, and mental resilience.

But they are prepared to push themselves to the limit, knowing that their efforts will make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a meaningful impact and help support the vital work of Sosad Dundalk, NECRET, and Save our homeless Dundalk.

DkIT lecturer featured in book on Alien movie franchise

ALIEN Legacies: The Evolution of the Franchise, a new book exploring the legacy and cultural impact of Ridley Scott’s iconic 1979 film Alien and its sequels includes a chapter by DkIT lecturer Kenneth Sloane who teaches on the Institute’s Film and Television production degree.

The book features contributions by scholars from universities across the world including Canada, the uK, France, Germany and Australia and examines the Alien franchise from a variety of academic perspectives including cognitive narratology, transmedia, English literature, Gothic studies and psychology.

“It’s a great honour to be selected to contribute to this book on a set of movies I’ve always found fascinating and share some of my own perspectives on the Alien series” Kenneth stated.

Sloane’s chapter, titled “The unescapable Labyrinth”, employs auteur theory combined with a psychoanalytic approach to analyse and compare the archetypal plot structure of the first three films in the series. The book chapter came about as a result of an academic paper Kenneth wrote for a conference at the university of Bangor in Wales back in 2019.

“Sloane’s contribution is valuable because rather than simply rely upon the received wisdom regarding the failures of Alien 3 his chapter offers a theoreti-

cally and critically rigorous account of how and why the third film has such a problematic place in the series” said editors Nathan Abrams and Gregory Frame. having shocked, disturbed and fascinated audiences since its initial release, Alien’s success has led to three direct sequels, two prequels, one “mashup” franchise, a series of graphic novels, novelizations, video games, and an enormous and devoted fanbase. Alien and its progeny continue to provoke debate and discussion among critics, academics and fans.

Alien Legacies: The Evolution of the Franchise is available from Oxford university Press and major book retailers.

Derek flanagan, Cormac McCann, Director of Sales and Marketing Crowne plaza hotel Dundalk, David teather, Darren Murphy and Benny McKeever.

Infant changing and feeding benches unveiled

NeW infant feeding and changing benches have been unveiled in both Dundalk and Drogheda this week in a ground breaking project led by the Department of Midwifery in our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

the benches have been designed with parents of infants in mind and include armrests for comfort and support as well as a changing table which is also attached to each bench. the bench in Dundalk is located on the grounds of Louth County Hospital while the

bench in Drogheda is in St Dominic’s Park.

the bench was constructed by members of Drogheda Men’s Sheds while the project was led by Grainne Milne who is the Director of Midwifery in our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

According to Grainne she and her whole team were delighted to get the project up and running.

“We are beyond excited to finally unveil our secret project that has been ongoing since August 2022. Yesterday we were in Louth

County Hospital in Dundalk while today we are in St Dominic’s Park in Drogheda. A special thanks to all the parents, babies and staff that joined us. these benches are for dads as well as mums, to feed and change their babies on benches that were skillfully crafted by our Men’s Shed friends., stated Grainne in a post on social media.

the announcement of the new initiative was timed to coincide with ‘International Week of the Midwife’.

CbS Primary take part in european Union initiative

PuPILS at CBS Primary School in Dundalk have been taking part in the Blue Star Programme, an initiative to teach children about the European union. Ms hannah O’hare, a 6th class teacher at the Chapel Street school, told the Dundalk Leader that the children have been doing projects throughout the year as part of the programme.

“Some of the projects have been based on geography, history, art and institutions,” said hannah.

“For the history project we have been working on World War II. The children have

been making projects and presenting.

“For geography the children have been learning about their favourite Eu member states. We have been looking at population size and landmarks.”

She added: “For art we have been looking at Eu artists such as Van Gogh and Picasso. My class made clay pieces on famous Eu landmarks.

“Mrs Sinead Sheridan, another 6th class teacher at CBS who has been taking part in the Blue Star Programme helped her pupils to make

marshmallow, spaghetti and 3D constructions.

“As part of the institutions section of the programme, we had MEP Colm Markey come into give a talk to the 6th class children about his role as an Eu MEP.”

Mr Markey gave his talk at CBS Primary School on Friday, May 5. The following Tuesday, on May 9 the school held ‘Europe Day’ when the projects were put on display in the hall.

The 4th and 5th class CBS pupils also took part in a quiz based on topics about the Eu

1—NaCl is the chemical symbol for which popular item found in almost every house?

2—The coronation of King Charles iii took place last weekend but what was the name of the previous king?

3—Where is the only place on their body dogs have sweat glands?

4—What real-life on-again off-again Hollywood power couple starred in the film Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

5—The motto of dundalk reads “Mé do rug Cú Chulainn Cróga”. What does that translate to in english?

6—on this day in 1927

Canberra replaced which city to become the capital of Australia?

7—Which popular US singer songwriter was born in long branch, New Jersey on September 23rd, 1949?

8—There are eight countries in the world that begin with the letter i? Can you name six of them?

9—Which artist wrote the only irish song to win an oscar for “best original Song”?

10—What were the first names of the married shop owners in Father Ted who were always fighting and plotting to kill each other? the Stinker—if you have cryophobia what are you afraid of?

—this week’s answers—

the Quay athletic u12s with their new jersey’s sponsored by Brendan Marmion Decorating Centre. his grandson alfie is also a player. and congratulationsto

Quay Celtic u11 Boys who travelled to ayr, Scotland last week to play in the eSf festival of football. they played nine games and returned home undefeated.

the Dundalk young Irelands u11s who recently played in Croke park during the Go Games series. players got a chance to change in the official dressing rooms as well as climbing the famous steps up to the balcony where the cup is raised at every major final. hopefuly we will see Louth Senior Men do just that this weekend.

n e WS in Brief

Retirement

Dundalk Active retirement Association meet each monday (excluding Bank Holidays) at 2:30pm in carroll mead Hall, pearse park. Activities for the month of may are as follows: monday 15th- Quiz. monday 22nd: chair aerobics, monday 29th Birches tea.

on

your Bike!

As part of louth Bike Week 2023 from 13th to the 21st of may, louth local sports partnership in conjunction with louth county council are providing opportunities for children and families to get more active through cycling programmes around louth. they are encouraging families to sign up to events and give their children the opportunity to get involved in Bike Week 2023.

Rosary Rally

please join us in praying for our nation on saturday may 13th 2023 at 4pm. the local public square rosary rally will take place at market square Dundalk. All welcome!

soup kitchen

michael mcneela Branch and i p.A. pistol club help out st.patrick’s soup kitchen with a €200 donation to assist in the good work it does.

new feeding and changing bench at Louth County hospital.

pupils from CBS primary school with teacher hannah O’hare, Colm Markey Mep and Maria Doyle.

Table Salt, 2—King George iV (Queen lizabeth’se father), 3—The pads on their paws, lizabethe4— Taylor and Richard urton,b i5— gave birth to

brave Cu Chulainn, 6—Melbourne, ruceb7— Springsteen, i8—reland, i taly, india, indonesia, iraq, srael,i iran and celand.i 9—Glen Hansard-

Falling Slowly from the film nce.o 10—John and Mary. The Stinker: cei or cold.

Family Notices

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) R.D.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

(Never known to fail) A.B.

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) L.T.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your 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) J.T.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I asked you for many favours This time, I ask for this special favour (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your 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) B.D.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

(Never known to fail) M.M.

International Nurses Day

I NTERNATIONAL

Nurses Day 2023 is being celebrated once again in our hospitals; on Friday May12th in Our Lady of Lourdes hospital Drogheda and Thursday May 18th in Louth County hospital, Dundalk. This celebration takes place annually on the birthday of Florence Nightingale.

International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world to mark the contributions Nurses make to society. This year the theme is ‘Our Nurses; Our Future”.

Our Lady of Lourdes hospital will celebrate this day with a ‘Festival of Nursing’ celebrating the inclusivity and diversity of our world class Nursing team. There will be posters, stands, quizzes with spot prizes throughout the day. The wards and units are focusing on

aisling Moynihan, winner of last year’s nurse of the year award at Our Lady of Lourdes hospital.

“The Building Blocks of Nursing” and will have posters on display highlighting what is important to their area of expertise. Members of the public will have the opportunity to view much of this work, which will be on display in both hospitals over the aforementioned dates.

Many Special quests

will visit the hospital on the day including his Excellency, Ambassador Akhilesh Mishra, the Indian ambassador to Ireland.

The Director of Nursing, Mr Adrian Cleary said, ‘There are just over 1,000 Nurses employed across our hospitals. The care, compassion and com-

PR o P e R ty/R entals s P e C ial se R vi C es attention for B.e r certificAtion of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact robert mulholland, Ber assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

4 Bed R oo M house to rent, manydown close, €1,950 p m suit 4 professionals. email details to hmcgee1997@gmail.com.

t wo la R ge B ed R oo M s to rent in Dundalk. Gas fired central Heating. fully furnished. contact 0872928247.

adveRtise youR house premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. telephone Dundalk leader 042 93 -20888.

attention l andlo R ds—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. l a R ge g as Ba RB eque for sale. seldom used. €75.00. carrickmacross area. ph 087 2888545.

l aye R Box 15 nests for a henhouse. €50.00. carrickmacross area. ph 087 2888545. e le C t R i C f oot sPa for sale, €30, cost €50, never used. tel 042 9335027. sell it thRough a Classified only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. the Dundalk leader.

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 087-225-9799. adveRtise youR seRviCe to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words phone Dundalk leader 042 932 0888. we C an 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 087387-8995 for free quote.

Building s e R vi C es extensions, renovations, sunrooms, conservatories and All General maintenance. p v c fascia, soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom refurbishment, painting, Decorating, Wall & floor tiling. All types of roof repairs & maintenance. for free estimates tel 087 260 2501.

n oah’s Painting se R vi C es—Houses & commercial, interior & exterior. All work carried out by professional tradesmen. please call/whatsapp 085 8146574.

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.

Ca RP ent R y & Joine R y maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. no job too big or small. contact seandon carpentry 087 298 5110. Man i n a van furniture delivery & removals. House, yard and garage clearances. call Will on 085 8604048 for a competitive quote.

MoBile hoMe tRansPoRt transported throughout 32 counties. contact eugene 086-607-1702.

C aRPet & oven Cleaning carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. call mvi cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.

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.

PRoPeRty MaintenanCe repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, pvc facia and soffits, over 20 yrs experience. references available. tel michael on 085762-3758.

f ifi’s a lte R ations 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.

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.

n on- s u R gi C al human hair replacement system. undetectable for those wishing to boost confidence and regain that younger look. phone Dundalk 083 064 5859. 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. n. B R owne Book-kee P ing providing a complete professional bookkeeping service for small to medium sized businesses and sole traders. offering a wide range of accountancy services: update and maintain financial records, payroll, income tax, vAt, pAye/prsi please contact nicola on 0860412388 or by email nbrownebookkeeping@gmail.com.

lo C al Powe R washing no job too big or too small. patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. contact James 089 9705466 for free quotation. Painting & d e Co R ating interior & exterior, spray painting & Hand painted Kitchens, etc. All work carried out by professional trades men. call Brian 087 7558506. Relia B le and ex P e R ien C ed bricklayer available for local work. call 00447585541350.

gR ass C utting in and around the Dundalk area. experienced and reliable. contact michael on 0871477067.

w ill’s g a R den s e R vi C es—lawn cutting, edges, hedges, clearances, power washing, garage/house clearances. call Will on 0858604048.

Chi R o P odist now available at the medical eye & Health centre, Demesne shopping centre, Dundalk tel 042 9332587.

l ady with g ift of Healing for skin conditions, eczema, psoriasis, chest problems, Asthma. three consecutive visits needed. for appointment please phone 087 7188450.

e asy-going country lad, mid 50s with GsoH seeks like-minded female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. for walks/ talks and to share the simple things in life. tel—0868220403.

mitment delivered by individual Nurses and Nursing teams has, and will continue to be, at the very heart of healthcare delivery ensuring access to quality healthcare for all. Today, on International Nurses Day, we celebrate that contribution to our community and to our society in general.’

s C t iling professional tiler, specialises in full bathroom refits. top class Work Guaranteed call shane 086 107 5080. 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.

Roofing Re Pai R s & s toves stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. contact paul englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

PoweR washing—Get ready for spring/ summer. power washing of driveways/paving/walls. competitive rates. call Will on 085 8604048.

BuildeR & hoMe MaintainenCe Building, Woodwork, painting, plumbing, tiling, Kitchen refurbishments, paving & fencing. no job to big or too small. tel. 087 295 2529.

Podiat R y/Chi R o P ody treatment in the comfort of your own home. ms. Dara mccoy, Bsc. podiatry, coru registered 0871924794. Painte R availa B le—Keen rates, no job too small! call 086 3848079.

dds Painting & Decorating services. Dundalk area. internal and external painting and wallpapering. free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. tel David 085 7308777.

s e M i- R eti R ed Painte R available (internal & external) 30 years experience, also power washing services, etc, tel Dermot 087 2993660.

g et 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.

fR en C h gR inds availa B le for Junior and leaving cert, All levels. individual and small group options. tel 086 8723340. dRuM lessons inCluding BodhRan for adults & children aged 8 years upwards. one to one lessons. phone 087 414 4228. s ewing C lasses ongoing at northlink retail park, mondays, Wednesdays and fridays, to book please call or WhatsApp elizabeth on 0872649221.

Reti R ed qualified children’s nurse looking for work, ideally to look after children in children’s home, own car, living in Dundalk, lots of experience and references available. tel pauline 089 2505221.

Wheel Bin ColleCtions

Cuchulainn Archers compete in Wicklow at Irish open

CuChuLAINN Archers compete The Irish Open Field Championships took place at the weekend. The competition, which was held over two days, was hosted by Wicklow Archers in the beautiful Dargle Valley Field Range,

The first day was an unmarked Round, which means the archers have to guess the distance to the target - not an easy thing to do - and the second day was a marked round, with the distances to the target marked out which makes it slightly easier!

Competing for CúChulainn Archers were Alan Convery and Robert hall (Senior Compound), Philip Fitzpatrick (Masters Compound), Gilbert McClelland (Barebow Senior) and Peter Gilmore (Master’s Barebow)

Alan Convery seeded 1st on both days and so won the overall Senior Compound Gold medal. Robert hall came in 6th in Senior Compound despite being unable to compete on the second day

Philip Fitzpatrick came second and took

the Silver medal in Masters Compound. Gilbert McClelland came in 4th in Senior Barebow and Peter Gilmore came 4th in Masters Barebow.

Also in competition recently for CúChulainn Archers were Robert hall and Neil Keeble who took part in the

IFAF Field Championships which were held by Laois Archery.

This competition, which took place in superb weather conditions, is in three parts, a Field Round, a hunter Round and a 3D Round and the combined score from all three parts gives you

the winner. Robert hall (Senior Compound) took the Gold Medal and Neil Keeble (Senior Barebow) came 5th with a Personal Best score.

Congratulations to all and a good result for the club. CúChulainn Archers meet every week and also run courses for beginners throughout the year. All enquiries to cuchulainnarchers@hotmail.com.

Pentecost Programme

ALL are welcome to the following four Monday nights, 8pm-9.30pm; 15th May, 22nd May, 29th May, & 12th June in “bethany” House of Prayer, 34 Point Road, Dundalk. A91 WoC 9. tel 042-9331602.

alan Convery gold medallist at the irish open field Chamiopnships in wicklow.

Marshes helps primary school children celebrate ‘here’s

Looking at

DuNDALK primary school children celebrated ‘here’s Looking at you Mum’ at Marshes Shopping Centre.

Marshes organised an imaginative and innovative competition for Mothers’ Day, asking all primary school students in the town to draw or paint a picture of the their mother, grandmother, auntie or guardian.

All entries were displayed

you Mum’

on the Marshes Mall and winning pictures were enlarged and framed for the students and their families to cherish forever.

First prize was won by Chevonne Patras of St Malachy’s Girls’ School, who was joined for the presentation by school principal Bríd Galligan and teacher Audrey McManus.

Chevonne won €1,000 for the school and a €50 shopping

voucher for herself.

Meanwhile, the monthly Little Monsters Kids’ Club at Marshes returns on Saturday, May 27th.

Suitable for ages three and over, the club takes place on the last Saturday of each month with the best of fun and games.

Regular participants are reminded to bring their passport to fun and collect a stamp for taking part.

Old Dundalk Society Summer Lecture Series

ThE Old Dundalk Society is delighted to announce the commencement of their Summer Lecture series. The first lecture ‘GNR. The social imprint of the Great Northern Railway’

It will take place on Wednesday 10th of May 2023 at 7.30 pm at the Louth County Museum Dundalk. In 2021 the Old Dundalk Society launched an initiative aimed at developing skills of research, into local history amongst second level students in Dundalk.

The inaugural project was developed with Transition Year students from Colaiste Ris who presented a stimulating lecture on the intriguing biography of CBS alumni Peter Mc Ardle.

In 2022 the project was extended to Colaiste Chu Chulainn, and the students selected the GNR as their research theme. Their inspiration came from the fact that their school was built beside the former GNR railway line. Over the past few months, the Transi-

tion Year students have been busy developing a range of skills based on history, engineering, graphics, economics, and sociology as they have researched the central role of Dundalk in the development of the Great Northern Railway.

Due to the limited capacity of the venue, attendees are advised to come early. Refreshments served after lecture. Voluntary contributions at door. Please Note 7.30 pm start for lecture.

teacher audrey McManus (l) and principal Bríd Galligan (r) with Marshes Centre Manager Sean farrell and the winner of the Marshes ‘here’s Looking at you Mum’ art competition, Chevonne patras of St Malachy’s Girls’ School.

Marshes Centre Manager Sean farrell and principal Áine uí Choinne with third-placed winner in the Marshes ‘here’s Looking at you Mum’ art competition, Robyn nic Gabhann of Gaelscoil Dhún Dealgan.

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