11-01-2023

Trojan work of volunteers undone by town dumpers

By Tamara O’Connell

Following the release of the recent iBAl report the Chief Executive of louth County Council Ms. Joan Martin, has expressed some disappointed with the results for Dundalk which were issued this week. Dundalk is now officially considered ‘littered’ by iBAl and is ranked in the lower half of the annual table having fallen to 34th spot in the table, which is just six spots from the bottom.

The results are a far cry from January 2019 when Dundalk achieved their highest ever placing of 9th. According to Joan Martin, Chief Executive of louth County Council, the Trojan work being done locally is being ruined by a few individuals.

“louth County Council spends more than €4m annually countywide on litter management. The work carried out by the council and local community groups to improve the county is neverending, and particular mention must go to the Dundalk Tidy Town group who carried out trojan work, as recognized by yet another Tidy Town gold Medal in 2022. it is really disappointing therefore that a couple of individuals can ruin the efforts of so many to keep our streets and landscape beautiful for all.

Continued on Page 2

At the launch of the pop up swimming pool in Ardee were Sarah Keane of Swim Ireland,

Paula Butterly, Una May CEO of Sport Ireland and Joan Martin, Chief Exec. of Louth

Continued from Page 1

I would ask anyone who witnesses illegal dumping to report it to our litter wardens or the Gardaí.”

Joan said she was confident that with continued efforts of all in Dundalk that the town with soon return to a Clean to European Norms standard.’

Dundalk Tidy Town’s Treasurer Anita McEneaney told the Dundalk Leader that the group is “disappointed” with the results of the latest survey.

“We dropped down the table but it’s not a reflection of the work

work of volunteers undone by dumpers

that has been put into the town,” she said.

“At our next meeting we will discuss the IBAL survey and see what can be done to improve things.

“We are also hoping to arrange a meeting with Louth County Council (LCC) to see how we can work together to change things for the better.”

Anita added: “There is constant dumping around clothing banks. We come across it regularly and are going to take a look at it and work with the charities involved.

“It could be the time of year; people tend to do clear outs over

the Christmas period. We also have to focus on the positive and acknowledge that we have improved in a couple of areas.

“I’d like to add that we are always looking for volunteers and for people to lend us a hand. Everyone is responsible as a community for keeping the town clean.”

She continued: “We are doing a newsletter for schools which looks at the local area and what’s around them such as biodiversity.

“It also covers topics such as rubbish and what happens to it. Unfortunately, some people still think it’s

acceptable to throw rubbish.

“We are disappointed but hopefully we will have a productive meeting with the Council and we will improve it.”

Dundalk is ranked in the lower half of the annual table and has fallen to the 34th spot. Meanwhile, three quarters of Ireland’s cities and towns were deemed “clean” in 2022.

An Taisce conducts the surveys on behalf of IBAL. The report noted: “While there were some top-ranking sites, it is the presence of so many heavily littered sites which

brings down the overall result for Dundalk.

“Heavily littered sites included the Wasteground and Clothing Bank on N53, Recycle Bank at Tesco.

“By far the most heavily littered site was Castletown River at Dundalk Bridge – a litter blackspot which was subject to significant dumping.

“Two sites in Dundalk deserve a special mention due to the great work and significant improvements which have taken place.

“Wrightson’s Lane looked very well, colourful art work has

greatly improved the overall appearance of same.

“The Wasteground at the corner of St Nicholas Avenue and Maxwell’s Row has been cleared of previous litter problems.”

For the second year in a row, Naas topped IBAL’s ranking with Maynooth and Kilkenny in a tie for second spot. Urban areas improved by 12 per cent, yet they continue to occupy the lower positions in the IBAL rankings with Mahon in Cork City propping up the table in 40th place.

Louth County Council and Swim Ireland are delighted to announce the arrival of the Popup Pool in Ardee, Co. Louth, opening on 10 January.

the twelve metres by 3.4 metres swimming pool will be located at Ash Walk, between Supervalu and Aldi until the end of March 2023 and is perfectly timed to coincide with Sport Ireland’s Winter Initiative to get people exercising and taking part in physical activities.

Swim Ireland want to ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to learn how to swim and so, supported by the Department of Culture, tourism, Arts, Media, Sport and the Gaeltacht and Sport Ireland, they have rolled out this Initiative which Louth County Council have embraced and are funding for the people of mid-Louth. the Council through the Sports Partnership are assisting with this project as part of their programme of activities.

the pool, now located in Ardee, is the second Pop-up Pool rolled out by Swim Ireland, with the other pool currently set up in tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. Swim Ireland recently announced that the Government will be funding a third Pop-up Pool in 2023.

Cllr Paula Butterly, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District,Louth County Council welcomed guests to the pool launch on Monday commenting “there has been a real buzz around the town over the last few days with the advent of the Pop-up Pool. It’s great to see people of all ages chatting and displaying a common interest in what could be the start of a whole new healthy lifestyle. I thank the Executive of Louth County Council for supporting this initiative and the mid-Louth area.”

In response, Joan Martin, Chief Executive said she and the team “are thrilled to be able to assist mid-Louth with the pool albeit on a temporary basis. We in

Louth County Council are constantly looking at initiatives to enhance the lives of the Citizens of our fantastic county and keep Louth a great place to work, live and play.”

the opportunities that the pool will provide

and the benefits it will have for the local community are far reaching including school swimming lessons, aquafit classes, autism friendly swim classes and adult swimming lessons.

the pool opens from tuesday 10th January

with many bookings already received. For groups or individuals wishing to book please contact popuppool@swimireland.ie or book online https:// www.swimireland.ie/ get-swimming/pop-uppool/ardee.

Women’s Aid plea for additional accommodation

ANN Larkin from Women’s Aid Dundalk has said there were 313 unmet requests for accommodation from women in need up to November 2022.

She added that there were over 1,600 helpline calls to Women’s Aid Dundalk up to November last.

“A lot occurred in 2022 locally and nationally. It’s very hard when you are at the frontline to see progression,” said Ann.

“Our service locally is very busy. We have a broad range of services. We have over 30 children attending children’s services.

“We do our best to help accommodate women and children. It’s not new. This has been the case for ages.”

She added: “It’s a problem and it’s been recognised. There has been a commitment by Government to provide additional accommodation and that’s positive.

see if it will get better. In 1994 we began with a part-time helpline. It began as a local initiative.

“We worked with over 1,000 women in 2022. Every other service across the country will have a similar story to ours.”

Ann continued: “Women’s Aid Dundalk has benefitted so much from the support of the community. We want to acknowledge all of that.

“Prevention is part of the strategy. When we begin to see societal change, it will be amazing. There is a recognition of the issue. The more the issue is discussed and talked about the better.”

Ann emphasised that there is also a need to empower young men and boys to be able to call out the inappropriate behaviour.

“While we look at the huge demand for services and struggle to meet that demand we need to work beyond it,” she said.

“If we make homes safer for women and children, we will make the country safer for all citizens.

“It’s not just a women’s issue. Men suffer abuse also and now there are organisations in place to help them.

“Sometimes it can be hard to SunrISE on Sunday was the backdrop for the centenary commemoration of the execution of 19-year-old Louth man Sylvester heaney at the republican plot at St Patrick’s Cemetery Dundalk.

“In 2022 there was a need for refuge but we should be working towards the prevention of domestic violence and coercive control.

“We need to get to a point where perpetrators are made to feel uncomfortable in society.”

Centenary commemoration of executed teenager Sylvester heaney

the event, which was chaired by Sinn Féin councillor Pearse McGeough, was attended by over 40 people, including the grandnephews of Mr heaney, who was known to his family as ‘Sylvie’.

A wreath was laid at the republican plot, where Mr heaney is buried and those in attendance heard from Louth tD ruairí Ó Murchú, who outlined some of Mr heaney’s background and the circumstances of his execution one hundred years ago.

Mr heaney, who was from Dillonstown and was the eighth child in the family of 12 to Bernard and Julia heaney, who had lived in hill Street before moving to Dillonstown.

Mr heaney had initially joined the Free State Army but had, Deputy Ó Murchú said, ‘become utterly dissatisfied with the Free State and decided, like many others, to make his stand’.

he was stationed in Baldonnell Aerodrome. the Leixlip Flying Column of the IrA was involved in a number of attacks on infrastructure, primarily to disable communications in this region. A plan was conceived to attack the aerodrome towards the end of 1922 and, having been postponed

twice, there was a third mobilisation when the unit acquired a number of rifles and a machine gun and information had been provided. A number of Free State soldiers, including Mr heaney, joined the IrA.

But it was ultimately unsuccessful and Mr heaney, along with four other former Free State soldiers, were captured and became known as the ‘Leixlip Five’. they were court martialled for treason and sentenced to death.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘the State did not say where the executions took place. Each one of those executed left a family who had to live with the huge pain during a very difficult time in Irish history’.

Eventually, the bodies, including Mr heaney’s were exhumed and reburied. Mr heaney was interred at the republican plot in Dowdallshill, alongside five

other executed men, but the funeral was marred by controversy when the firing party at the reinterment was attacked by Free State forces.

Mr heaney left behind a number of letters, including to his mother and his sister, Martha. he told Martha he was not afraid and asked her to send some Christmas pudding ‘so as to think of those at home’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘Sylvester heaney died a martyr like many others. We must remember that they died to try to bring about a better Ireland, a united Ireland.

‘We have an opportunity today that we may not have had over the last 100 years to deliver an Ireland that they died for’.

two other events, marking further executions, are to take place on January 13 and 22 at Dundalk’s old gaol and at Dundalk barracks.

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú, Barry Conachy, Pearse Conachy (grand-nephews of Sylvester Heaney) and Cllr. Pearse McGeough

Local Young Scientists buzzing for return to rDS

hAvInG been forced to bring the competition online in 2021 and 2022 due to Covid-19 the organisers of the Bt Young Scientist and technology exhibition were delighted to welcome back students to the rDS this week for the 59th edition of the popular schools competition.

Dundalk students have generally done very well in this competition with St vincent’s rachael ni Dhonnachadha winning the award for best individual project in 2015 with her Brap- Boxers handwrap which she designed to improve hand and wrist stability while fighting.

this year four local schools are involved in the competition with a familiar face from the Grammar school making the trip to the rDS this week.

Solomon Doyle has participated in the BtYStE exhibition for the past five years, using technology to support the medical field in his projects.

this year, he has created a mobile app that can accurately diagnose

skin lesions as either benign or malignant. the app analyses a photo of the lesion and searches for specific characteristics in a database of previously diagnosed skin lesions by dermatologists.

the app has been optimized to ensure accuracy for people of colour to combat the inherent biases within existing software of the same nature. the app’s machine learning software allows it to improve its accuracy over time.

Solomon has had success in previous editions of the young scientist competition, and with this being his most advanced project yet, he is hopeful that it will receive recognition.

the Science Department of St vincent’s School Dundalk, has a strong tradition of success in the Bt Young Scientist and technology Exhibition, being represented in the competition for the past 17 years. over the years ,entrants from the school

have achieved from ‘highly commended’ all the way to 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the category awards. the highlights include rachel Bothwell receiving the Google trailblazer award for ‘Best Female project’ and rachael ni Dhonnachadha being crowned 2nd place in the over-all competition and first in the individual project category as outlined above. through participation in BtYStE, the students develop learning skills necessary for

the modern world. their scientific, mathematical, research, and presentation skills improve. the girls also enjoy the opportunity of applying the knowledge they have learned in the classroom to their project work. this year St vincents’ will be represented by Kathleen Campbell, April Conroy and Jessica Fergus. the aim of their project is to investigate the effects of aging on balance, by carrying out a comparison between the balance of different age groups using a variety of testing methods. the girls are working on their project under the guidance and support of their teacher Mr John White, who has guided many of our students to this stage of the competition over the years. St vincent’s sends its congratulations to the girls

and wishes them every success in the finals.

two Colaiste ris 6th year students are competing in this year’s Young Scientist & technology Exhibition. the team consists of Conall Mullins-Shortt, aged 17, from Blackrock and his friend tJ McDonnell, aged 16, from Darver.

the students’ Science teacher, Kaya Kalyan, told the Dundalk Leader that the project “is all the lads own work”. he added: “they did everything. they read some research and came up with the idea to study whether red bloods cells can control and immune response.”

“It’s an original idea so it’s a new research topic and there isn’t a lot of work done on it.”

Meanwhile, Ayedoji Sofola and Breanna

Winters in Coláiste Chú Chulainn discovered that

‘not All Apples Are Equal oxidisers’

Apples go brown when they are cut and left in the air for some time.

Ayodeji Sofola and Breanna Winters thought this was a reaction between some chemicals in the apple and the air. oxygen in the air reacts with phenols and the enzyme phenolase, in the cells of the apple, forming a brown product. this is an oxidation reaction.

Ayedoji and Breanna were curious to know if apples oxidize at the same pace. So, we decided to monitor the ph changes over time. the ph values changed as the apples oxidised so we decided to investigate whether the ph of

apple flesh changes as the apple ripens. they compared several apple varieties and studied how long this process takes. An initial ph value was taken for each using universal indicator paper. ph values were recorded after one hour and again after 12 hours of exposure to the air. results were recorded on a table and compared. Students found that the ph increased as the oxidation process continued. Apples are acidic. they all had an initial ph between 3 and 4. Most remained at pH 3 for the first hour.

By 12 hours all varieties of apple had gone up in ph level. Some were even neutral. the results ranged from 5 to 7. From our results we answered our question –all apples do not oxidise at the same rate.

April Conroy, Kathleen Campbell, and Jessica Fergus from St Vincents.

Colaiste Ris 6th Year students TJ McDonnell (16) from Darver and Conall Mullins-Shortt (17) from Blackrock are competing in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2023.

Solomon won a special award for his project which helped visually impaired people in 2020. He also won the HEAnet Special award last year.

Ayodeji Sofola and Breanna Winters are 5th year students in Coláiste Chú Chulainn. They investigated if apples oxidize at the same rate.

Principal wants to integrate pupils with ASD into mainstream

A CountY Louth Principal is urging parents to attend a meeting about integration in mainstream classes in the Monasterboice Inn on Wednesday, January 11. the meeting about children with additional educational needs is due to be held at 7.30pm and

all parents are invited to attend.

Principal of Scoil naomh Colmcille in togher Anne Marie Ford is asking all parents to have their say on a national review of a 2004 Act on inclusiveness for children under 18, which is currently underway

by the Department of Education.

Anne Marie believes all children with additional educational needs should have the equal right to be integrated in mainstream classes and not directed to ASD classes.

the Epsen (Education

for Persons with Special Education needs) Act review is to ensure that legislation on education for students with additional needs is upto-date, fully operational and reflective of the lived experiences of students and families.

Anne Marie is pas-

sionate about integrating children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) as soon as possible into mainstream education to allow them to become independent and realise their own potential.

She believes that ASD classes are beneficial for some but best international practice is the model of total integration where possible - and says teachers should have adequate training, sufficient resources and suitable class sizes to facilitate this.

“We have the Epsen Act in place but it hasn’t been fully implemented and that is the crux of the matter and why the upcoming meeting is so important,” she said.

Gernord Ltd, Carrickmacross, established since 1968, are part of a French-based multinational operation, and are one of the largest PVC flooring manufacturers in Europe.

P RODUCTIO n M A n AGER :

The principal roles are to manage the Continuous production process, ensuring planned production output and all KPI targets are achieved, including the managing & motivation of the Production Team (General Operatives, Line Leaders). Responsible, also to maintain and improve plant efficiency, reduce cost, maximize profitability plus maintain a high standard of housekeeping and H&S on the entire site. Degree qualification in Mechanical or Process engineering and 5+ years, experience of continuous process manufacturing. Also consider Degree qualifications in Science & Engineering or Production Management experience with alternative training in above skills.

P ROCESS En GI n EER

The principal roles are to optimise the overall Plant performance by ensuring budgeted KPI targets are achieved, production process problems solved and investigated, directly handle the smaller Engineering projects and Continuous improvements, implement any H&S actions, maintain, and manage all Risk Assessments, SOPs and production documentation. Also, review the efficient use of raw materials, labour & material flow. Degree qualification in process or mechanical engineering and 5+ years, experience of continuous process manufacturing. Also consider Degree qualifications in Science & Engineering.

M AI n TE n A n CE E LECTRICIA n

Vacancy for a Qualified Electrician. A minimum of 10 years in maintenance and repair of automated manufacturing equipment, and experience or formal qualification in cross/ multi-skilled electrical and mechanical work, is required, for routine, breakdown, and project electrical work to support production operations. The shift is an alternating, every second week, 6am to 2pm and 2pm to 10pm shifts, five days per week.

All applicants for above vacancies, must have good communication and team building skills, a willingness to be flexible, versatile, embrace ongoing change and engage in continuous improvement programmes.

Please forward full CV details or complete application form and send to: Francis Duffy, General Manager, Gernord Ltd, Ballybay Rd, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. 042-9661060 Email: francis.duffy@gerflor.com

the school has 15 children with additional educational needs in mainstream classes and teaches 24 children who have a diagnosis of ASD, from all over Louth and Meath in four early intervention classes.

She believes that the Act needs to be amended to ensure all children are taught together with the additional resources they need.

“this is an excellent Act but through no-one’s fault, I feel hasn’t been fully implemented,” she said.

Anne Marie Ford.

“All these new ASD classes are being opened with SnAs in schools now but there is very little training being given to staff on neuro diverse conditions.

“these children are being placed in beautifully modern and

fully equipped classes but they are segregated from the mainstream classes.”

Anne Marie added: “If you segregate these children for 14 years, how are they expected to integrate into society when they’ve been shielded from it all their lives?

“When they reach adulthood, they are left facing further cliffedges with no supports and very little resources after that.

“there is an exponential growth in children with additional educational needs and if you seclude them now from life, then you are setting them up for a fall.”

She continued: “We have to teach all-inclusiveness. What is the point of having an ASD class with 12 children?

“they should be integrated into smaller mainstream classes where there are extra resources given and training to teachers and SnAs on recognising and avoiding trigger points for these children through timely movement breaks.

“the act as it stands is excellent but we need more. the review needs to include all and give all children an equal right to education together.”

??? QUIZ ???

1—Clark Kent and Lois Lane worked in which fictional newspaper in the Superman movies and TV series?

2—Which bone is known as the patella?

3—What is the Spanish word for ‘tomorrow’?

4—On 7th July 2011, which British newspaper was closed down amid a phone hacking scandal?

5—Which actress left Hollywood to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956?

6—What school in Dundalk

is named after Kilkenny born Catholic missionary and educationalist Edmund Rice?

7—The northernmost tip of which country is geographically closest to the North Pole?

8—Where would you find the hardest substance in the human body?

9—Which cartoonist, writer, producer and animator created hit Tv series The Simpsons?

10—Your mother was a hamster and your father

smelt of elderberries’ was an insult levied in which comedy film?

The Stinker—Which singers name is an anagram of ‘Presbyterians’?

—ans W ers—

9—Matt Groening, 10—Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The Stinker: Britney Spears.

1—The Daily Planet, 2—Kneecap, 3—Mañana, 4—New of the World, 5—Grace Kelly, 6— Coláiste Rís, 7—Canada, 8—Teeth (enamel),

Search to find 2023 Texaco children’s art competition winners launched

THE search to find the young artists who will excel in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition has begun. Last year two students from Dun-

dalk won prizes in the Competition, which is now in its 69th year and widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland.

The closing date for entries is Tuesday, 28th February. Judging will take place in March with winners to be announced in April.

Details are available at www.texacochildrensart.com or at Texaco service stations throughout the county.

We invite applications for the following positions

Family Notices

nOVena

7th

Boyle Madge

AnniversAry

in loving memory of my wife Madge, late of emer Terrace, Dundalk who died on 12th January 2016.

‘never more than a thought away, loved and remembered every day’.

sadly missed by your loving husband John, relatives and friends.

Anniversary mass on sunday 15th January at 12pm in st nicholas Church, Dundalk.

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) M.W.

Almighty God, from his boyhood years you blessed st. Gerard with generosity of soul, and led him to do your will in heroic ways. By your grace he lived his brief life in intense love for you and for those in need. Hear his prayers now for us and for all poor souls in trouble. st. Gerard, friend of sinners, friend of the poor, friend of mothers and children, it is our joy and consolation to come to your novena to remember the goodness of your life, your burning sense of God your tender love for Our Lord and his mother, Mary, your kindness and care for everyone in need. Pray for us now in our time of need. Pray for us in our sickness. Pray for us in our confusion and despair. Pray for us in our struggle with life and its mysteries. remember especially those who long for children and mothers about to give birth. remember those who have wandered from the practice of the faith and need the grace of reconciliation. remember all of us poor sinners in our particular needs. Amen. f.k.

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). t.s.

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.l.

novena to the sacred heart

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

Standard minimum length should apply to multi-journey bus tickets

A STANDARD minimum length should be applied to bus tickets on Public Service Obligation (PSO) and commercial services, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Climate, Communications, Energy & National Resources, Senator John McGahon, is calling for an extended timeframe for passengers, particularly those in commuter belt areas.

Senator McGahon said: “Commuters are exposed to a myriad of different ticket lengths, across all bus services. For many utilising public transport daily, an extended multi-journey ticket would be extremely welcomed.

“For instance, Bus Éireann services, TFI Local Link scheduled services, and Dublin Kildare operated by GoAhead Ireland offer two, seven and 10 journey tickets. In contrast, Expressway offers 10 journey passes and monthly open return passes.

“The disparity regarding

what choices are available to commuters is wholly unnecessary and could prove discouraging as it wastes time.

“I am calling for a standard minimum length of one month for all PSO and commercial services to help our commuters save both money and time.

“The National Transport Authority (NTA) is responsible for regulating fares and while Government cannot manage day-to day services, it is fundamental that we continue to make progressive policy decisions for our commuters.

“In my home County of Louth, the population is set to grow dramatically by 2024. We must provide the opportunities to increase public transport and get more people off our roads. A minimum ticket length would offer clarity and efficiency to residents.

“Ultimately, this measure would increase the attractiveness for commuters and avoid any confusion,” concluded Senator McGahon.

PROPERTY/RENTALS SPECIAL SER v ICES

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.

D OUBLE BEDROOMS to let in wellequipped, large home in Dundalk, may suit professionals. Private parking Tel 089 2430287.

ADvERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

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

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

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

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 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 087387-8995 for free quote.

SC 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.

B UILDING S ER v ICES—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.

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.

ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 818 4827.

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

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

R OOFING R EPAIRS & S TO v ES—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.

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.

Q UALIFIED C ARPENTER available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs.

No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

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 LTERATIONS—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.

A LL - IN - ONE!—Home and property maintenance and improvements. Painting, decorating, general household maintenance, exterior cleaning, power washing, gutters, dust free sanding, No job to big or small, quality but affordable service contact Ian 0874158238.

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

P ODIATRY/C HIROPODY treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794.

P ROFESSIONAL D RYLINING—Dropped Ceiling, Tape & Joints also all Insulation Services. Dundalk Tel 089-2488819 or 0894189199.

PAINTER AvAILABLE—Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

P LASTERING S ER v ICE AvAILABLE Free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

K E v IN McM AHON E LECTRICAL D UNDALK—Small household jobs, safe electrical approved Tel 087 2548221 after 5pm.

Special notices

G REENFIELDS M USIC TOURS—Invite you to join for our 1 nights stays to see the cream of Irish Folk and Ballads. Price includes accommodation, bus and ticket. Contact Anthony on 085 1204994.

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. Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

B EGINNERS S E w ING C LASSES start 16th January at DJK Creations Unit 3D Northlink Retail Park, Coe’s Road, Dundalk. Learn in a conducive and comfortable environment. For more information call/whatsapp 087 2649221 or visit www.djk-creations.com for more options.

P ERSON wANTED for work on small boat on a daily bases for general fishing, Cooley area, for enquires please email:53somethingnew@ gmail.com.

S E w ING/FASHION Design Tutor wanted. To apply for position please call Elizabeth on 087 2649221 or email your CV to info@djkcreations.com.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL

intend to apply for full planning permission for infill development @ Crois Croinn, Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of the construction of three apartment blocks in a mix of residential units. Block 1 consists of a three storey apartment building with a ground floor 5 Bed shared accommodation apartment, 6no. 1 Bed units, 2no. 2 Bed units and 2no. 3 Bed units. Block 2 consists of a three storey apartment building with 9no. 1 Bed units and 6no. 2 Bed units, Block 3 consists of a three and a half storey apartment building with 6no. 1 Bed units, 8no. 2 Bed units and 5no. 3 Bed units. Full permission to including access road, car parking with provision for electric charge points, cycle storage and plant room bin storage outbuilding and all associated site development and drainage works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, John McBride, have submitted significant further information in relation to planning application reference number 22/807 @ Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. This Significant Further Information has been furnished to the planning authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the Significant Further Information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, not later than 2 weeks after the date of receipt of this newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

st. gerard Majella novena prayer

—I John McBride

Senator John McGahon.

New ambulance for Dundalk Red Cross

By Tamara O’Connell

thE Dundalk branch of the Irish red Cross has purchased a new ambulance costing €40,000 for the benefit the local community.

Chairperson of the Dundalk branch Pat Sheridan has said a heartfelt “thank you” to donors in Dundalk and the surrounding areas.

“It took the branch years to accumulate the funds to buy the ambulance. We would like to thank the people of Dundalk and the surrounding areas for supporting this cause,” said Pat.

“We would also like to say thank you to the community for their kindness and for supporting the Christmas collection.

“We have purchased a new ambulance from the funds raised over

the years and we will continue to work for the benefit of the community.”

Members of the Dundalk branch of the Irish red Cross are planning to distribute duvet sets to three local charities.

“our whole focus is on doing good in the community. We help anyone in need - peo-

ple in Dundalk and the surrounding areas - and have recently been helping refugees from ukraine,” said Pat.

“We provide transport to hospitals for patient appointments and we have been working with the hSE by providing medical cover for transfers in and out of hospitals.”

the Dundalk branch of the Irish red Cross has 40 youth members aged ten to 16-yearsold. they meet every Friday. there are 12 youth leaders.

there are 17 teddy Bears aged four to tenyears-old and they meet in the hall on Jocelyn Street every Saturday morning.

Carol Cumiskey, Vice Chairperson Dundalk branch of Irish Red Cross; Pat Sheridan, Chairperson Dundalk branch of Irish Red Cross and Paul nordon, volunteer for Dundalk branch of Irish Red Cross.

C UCHULAI nn C AMERA C LUB IPF S UCCESS —Eleanor Clarke, receiving her IPF Gold Medal from Freddie McArdle AIPF. Eleanor was awarded 1st place in the colour section of the Irish Photographic Federation national Shield. The local Cuchulainn Camera Club finished overall in 3rd place, ahead of some of the most prestigious camera clubs from all over Ireland.

Carol Cumiskey, Vice Chairperson Dundalk branch of Irish Red Cross; Pat Sheridan, Chairperson Dundalk branch of Irish Red Cross and Paul nordon, volunteer load their new ambulance.

real talks SoSAD Weekly Column

By Alan O’Mara

WELCoME to my second column as part of the real talks with SoSAD Ireland wellbeing series. Each week I outline a different mental skill that can help you to live a happier, healthier and more successful life. I explain why these mental skills are important, and how you can develop them through strategic and consistent practice.

Life challenges us all in different ways, but I believe the sharing of human experiences empowers us all. I will also share key insights from my work as a performance and well-being consultant with sports and business leaders around the world and reflect on key lessons from my own well-being journey.

What is resilience?

resilience is the ability to overcome challenges, adapt and keep going after something difficult has happened in life. resilience helps people to bounce back from failure. resilience also helps to cope in the face of adversity, trauma or significant sources of stress - such as relationships, exams, grief, health, sport or work. Being resilient won’t make problems go away, but it can help to see past problems, reach out for help, find enjoyment in life and better handle stress.

When I began counselling in my early twenties, I thought I was just trying to beat

depression in a one-off fight: Alan vs. Depression. twelve rounds. My hope was that eventually I could stand up in front of my family and say, ‘I beat it. I’m resilient. Are you proud of me?’ My counsellor had warned me on several occasions against that reasoning, but I took no heed. I only saw resilience as the ability to overcome hardship and didn’t realise that it was far more nuanced than that. I learned the hard way that resilience is not about the ‘lifting the cup’ moments.

resilience is more to do with the little things, like how we manage, cope and respond to our thoughts, feelings and actions on a day to day basis. using self-awareness, which I spoke about in last week’s column, along with resilience, equips me to better understand what is happening in real-time and to make better decisions when the going

gets tough. Being able to spot downward slides and take proactive actions have helped me to rebound, or even avoid, some serious mental health struggles.

I often encourage sports and business leaders that I work with to get into the habit of rating their mood from one to ten, and to think about the resilient actions they can do when the going gets tough. It can be as simple as going to the cinema with a friend instead of sitting at home alone watching a movie, or going for a walk surrounded by nature instead of lying on the couch. tough times are part of life and bad days happen to us all. Sometimes bad days become bad weeks, and resilience can help us navigate those challenging spells. however, being resilient does not mean we should carry the burden alone if bad weeks start to become bad months. Sometimes the most important act of resilience is asking for help.

I am grateful to have been part of many conversations about resilience over the years thanks to my work as a performance and wellbeing consultant. In a recent conversation with Ireland and Liverpool footballer Leanne Kiernan for the real talks with SoSAD Ireland well-being series, she highlighted resilience as an integral mental skill and explained how much she benefits from working with a mentor.

She said, “I feel like mentality is one of the most important things to have in life. Everybody trains hard but it’s your mentality and your resilience and not giving up when you are thrown aside or not looked at the way you think you should be looked at. It’s being able to bounce back from that. It makes you stronger.”

Developing resilience

Building resilience can happen in many different ways but like all mental skills, becoming more resilient takes time and practice.

one of the best ways to develop resilience is through reflection. Reflection helps us to look into our past to find experiences, evidence and clues that can guide us in the present and future. take 5 deep breaths and think about when you were resilient during a difficult time. What did you do that helped you cope or get through that challenge? Maybe it was sharing problems with friends or family or going for a walk or a run. Perhaps it was seeking support from a mental health professional or being more self-compassionate.

Everyone deals with adversity in different ways at different times. Figuring out what works for you will help develop resilience.

Go to sosadireland.ie/ real-talks/ to learn more about how mental skills can help you live a happier, healthier and more successful life.

u-14 Girls are Leinster champs

on Saturday morning our u14

Girls travelled to Carlow It to take part in their Leinster Final. the opponents on the day were Wicklow rFC.

Dundalk got off to a slow start and trailed by 12 - 0 after 15mins of play. to their credit Dundalk showed great battling qualities and got themselves back into the match just before halftime, a training ground move resulted in a great try which left the scoreline 12 - 7 at halftime in Wicklows favour.

this gave the Dundalk Girls the

lift they needed and they started the 2nd half with the determination that has seen them progressing through this completion.

After only 5mins of play Dundalk scored again to bring the match level at 12 - 12.

Shortly after Dundalk went ahead for the first time to give them the lead 19 - 12.

It was a war of attrition at times for the next quarter but after some great play by the backs Dundalk ran in a try in the corner to go 24 - 12 ahead.

Wicklow to their credit battled

back and got another score on the board to leave it 24 - 19 going into the last few minutes of the game.

Both teams were out on their feet at this stage but Dundalk made a break and scored another try to leave the Final score 2919.

Dundalk were champions and were presented the trophy to the huge support that was gathered.

A huge squad performance has got these girls to this stage of the season, Dundalk were worthy winners on the day.

The victorious Dundalk Rugby U14 girls team who beat Wicklow RFC 29-19 last Saturday morning.

Alan O’Mara.