11-12-2024

Page 1


BAN LIFTED!

GAELIC Football will be played by Grammar School students in 2025 following a decision made by the school’s Board of Governors. Students had held a number of protests throughout this year over the school board’s refusal to allow them to play Gaelic Football.

The pupil’s entered a team into the Lennon Cup earlier this year despite the ban on Gaelic Games but were later forced to withdraw from the competition after receiving a letter from the Board of Governors warning students that they were not insured to play given the fact that Gaelic Football wasn’t sanctioned in the school.

The students good natured protests saw them stand outside the school with banners and placards pleading with the powers that be to allow them play Gaelic Football. The protests were often met with support from passing cars who honked their horns in support. Louth GAA Chairman Sean McClean and local politicians including Ruairí Ó Murchú and Erin McGreehan also attended the protests to show their support for the pupils. Continued on Page 2

Paddy Greene, QFA
Sinead McAvinney, QFA
Ella and Evie Mone from Meadbawn delivering

Woman arrested in connection with the murder of Kyran Durnin

GARDAÍ investigating the disappearance and murder of Kyran Durnin (8 years) have arrested a female on suspicion of murder. The arrest was made yesterday (Tuesday 10th December)

The purpose of these searches were to discover any evidence which might provide Gardaí with information as to Kyran’s current whereabouts or what has happened to Kyran.

The house was known to have been Kyran’s family home for a period of years up to May 2024.

Gardaí emphasised that the current tenants of this house are not connected in anyway with Kyran or his disappearance.

It was also confirmed that Kyran was a student in a local national school in Dun-

The eight-year-old was reported missing in August of this year but gardaí believe he could have been killed two years ago. He was last seen alive in May 2022 when he was six years old. In October Gardai in Dundalk began searching the former family home of Kyran Durnin in Emer Terrace, Castletown as part of the investigation into his disappearance. Under a District Court Order, gardaí took possession of a private house in Emer Terrace, Dundalk.

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dalk, up to approximately the end of the 2021/ 2022 primary school year.

Kyran was reported missing, along with his mother, to An Garda Síochána on the 30th August 2024, and as having been last seen on or about the 28th August 2024.

The woman arrested

yesterday is being detained under Section 4 Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in the East of the Country.

A Garda spokesperson was not available for comment.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to any person with any information, on the dis-

appearance and murder of Kyran Durnin, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact the Garda Investigation Team at Drogheda Garda Station on 041 987 4200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or speak with any member of An Garda Síochána.

Emotional Jimmy’s goal for late Dad

BLACKROCK football player Jimmy Dunne described his goal last Saturday for QPR as one of the most emotional goals of his career. The 27 year old former Manchester Utd academy product has become a mainstay in the QPR defence since joining the London club in 2021 and despite playing as a central defender he has shown an eye for goal for the Londoners by scoring no less than eight times over the past three seasons.

Jimmy took to the pitch for QPR on Saturday just one day after burying his father Eamonn who passed away last Monday. Eamonn, originally from Dublin, was a hugely popular

figure locally having played and managed with Geraldines GFC as well as playing for Louth back in the 90’s.

The secondary school teacher was diagnosed with cancer in 2020 and last Monday tributes poured in for the Blackrock resident when following the news of his passing.

Having travelled back home to be with his family, Jimmy attended the funeral on Friday in St Oliver lunkett church in Blackrock before flying back to London to play for QPR on Saturday afternoon against Norwich City.

The former Rock Celtic player put in a brilliant shift and it was his 22nd minute goal which set

QPR up for a crucial 3-0 win which lifts them out of the relegation zone in the English Championship.

Dunne is no stran-

ger to scoring goals for QPR having netted seven times prior to Saturday but none of those seven would have been as emotional

as the goal he scored on Saturday. After scoring the goal, Jimmy ran in front of the QPR fans before being engulfed by his teammates. As the celebrations died down an emotional Dunne pointed skywards to acknowledge the man who was his biggest supporter and helped him on the road towards becoming a professional footballer.

Speaking to the media after the game, Dunne described one of the most emotional goals of his career.

“It was an emotional goal. Maybe it was written in the stars, the ball ricocheting around me, someone had to put it in the net. Yeah, it’s been a really tough week for

my friends and family back home. I just needed to go back to be there for my sister, my brother, my mother, everyone else. I was just really, really grateful that I could get back in time for the game, and that the manager trusted me enough to play.

He went on to say that he felt that his late father had played a part in the opening goal which may not have been his prettiest but will no doubt go down as one of his most memorable.

“To be honest yea. I did feel like that, because it came to me first time and ricocheted back in my direction again for some reason. These things are sometimes meant to be,” he added.

GAA will be played in the Grammar School in 2025

From Page 1

A statement from the students was released yesterday (Tuesday) confirming that gaelic football will be allowed in the school in 2025

“Dundalk Grammar School will play Gaelic Football from 2025 onwards. This decision follows a series of productive meetings between school staff and the Board of Governors.

“Gaelic Football will be played by both boys and girls in the senior cycle only, providing students with the opportunity to participate in the sport. We have been told that we will play a friendly this academic year and can enter the Lennon Cup next year.

“Girls will have the opportunity to compete from the 2025/26 academic year also. We are delighted with the Board’s decision to include Gaelic Football as part of the school’s sports programme. It’s a sport that is so integral to our national identity, and we are excited that future generations of Dundalk Grammar students will have the chance to play it.

“We want to express our gratitude to those who supported our efforts, especially Ruairí Ó Murchú TD, who played a pivotal role in raising awareness of our campaign in the Dáil. We are deeply grateful to Ruairí Ó Murchú TD for his unwavering support throughout our campaign.

“We would also like to express our thanks to students from other schools who signed petitions in solidarity with our campaign, led by Alex McArdle. In addition, we would like that thank Louth GAA Chair-

man Sean McClean and the entire Louth GAA community for their ongoing support and encouragement throughout the process. Their backing has been instrumental in bringing this initiative to fruition.

“Starting in 2025, the school will begin organising teams and coaching for both boys and girls in preparation for competition at senior level,” concluded the statement.

Reacting to the news, Sinn Fein TD Ruairí Ó Murchú praised the students involved in the campaign to allow

Gaelic Football be played in the Grammar School. He described their campaign as ‘a lesson on how to carry out a protest respectfully’.

“I want to commend all of those involved in the campaign to allow students to play Gaelic Football in the Grammar School. Their campaign was a lesson in how to carry out a protest respectfully. Parents, teachers and particularly students who carried out the protest in a good natured and respectful manner all helped to ensure this decision was

reached. I am delighted that a solution has been found and that the board have agreed to allow students play our national game. Kids playing sports is absolutely a positive thing and I this is great news for all students in the school,” remarked Ruairí.

Louth GAA Chairman Sean McClean echoed those sentiments and stated that Louth GAA will be there to help the Grammar school get up and running in any way they can.

“It’s brilliant news and I would say fair play to the board of governors and the students. The kids just wanted to play gaelic football and they let that be known in a peaceful manner. I will be talking to the school and letting them know that Louth GAA are fully behind them and we will assist in any way we can whether that be contacting local clubs to allow students to use their grounds or helping them sort out gear and we just want them to know we are here to help them get up and running,” stated Sean.

Pupils in Dundalk Grammar School held a number of protests this year outside the school. The Board have now agreed to allow Gaelic football be played in the school.
Jimmy Dunne celebrates with the QPR fans having put his side 1-0 up against Norwich.
Kyran Durnin was reported missing in August. Gardaí believe he was murdered.

CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED-UP AT

24x568ml

(ONLY €1.67 A PINT)

St Patrick’s Soup Kitchens annual fundraiser this Friday

VOLUNTEERS from St. Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen/Food Parcels and their supporters will be shaking their buckets throughout Dundalk this Friday for their annual fundraiser.

The cost of living crisis has had a major impact on the group who have seen the cost of running both services increase in line with inflation and an increase in the numbers attending.

They rely completely on donations from the public and local businesses to operate their soup kitchen Monday to Saturday from 7-8pm and on Sundays from 2-3pm when their volunteers provide a hot meal and drink.

Individuals and families in need are also provided with basic food essentials like bread, milk, eggs, cereal, pasta/rice, pasta/curry sauce, teabags and biscuits at the back of the Soup Kitchen every Friday from 1011am.

There’s been a dropoff in recent years in the amount of food dona-

tions being made to the Christmas appeal so those who are clearing out their cupboards for Christmas are being encouraged to think of the Food Parcels.

Non-perishable items can be left at the parish office on weekdays from 10am to 1.30pm or the Soup Kitchen during its normal opening hours. Volunteers will also be there next week from Monday to Friday (16th20th) from 12pm to 4pm for those wishing to drop off food donations.

Parallel to the bucket collection a full day of carol singing is also planned for the Long Walk Shopping Centre with from 10-11.30 Ci-

ara Casey, Joanne Kieran and friends, 11.30 to 12 Coláiste Rís singers and musicians, 12 to 1pm Men’s Shed Singers, 1pm to 2pm Ukulele Band accompanied by CBS choir, 2pm to 3pm St Vincent’s Choir, 3pm to 4pm Ann Carroll and friends.

The annual church gate collection for St. Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen/Food Parcels will take place on Christmas Eve.

Speaking last Friday morning, volunteer Anne Kavanagh thanked the Dundalk community for all their support throughout the year.

“I’ve been a volunteer for the soup kitchens for six years and I absolutely

love it. I love the fact I’m giving something back to the community that I love and I love the craic and friendship between the volunteers here. I was going through a bad time in my life with three deaths in my family all coming close together but volunteering for the soup kitchens was a great help to me and there are six or seven regular volunteers who meet up in our premises beside St Patrick’s and put together 130 food parcels every Friday.

“We have our big anfundraiser on Friday so hopefully the brilliant Dundalk community can get behind us like they do every year,” stated Anne.

Alberta Kwakye, Lea Becker, Fiona Mackin, Siri Jansen, Anne Kavanagh, Brendan Scollon, Vida Quaye, Madonna Lambert and Margaret Hannigan.

2027 the earliest that extra beds will be available in Crosslanes

RESPONSES last week from the HSE about health services in County Louth ‘do not inspire hope or confidence’, Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The recently-elected deputy said he had received responses to questions about the additional bed capacity planned for Crosslanes, as well as podiatrists working in the public health system in Louth.

In response to a query submitted in October, the HSE said that services for diabetes management have been incorporated into a Chronic Disease Management hub, which should provide a fulltime clinical specialist podiatrist, a senior podiatrist, a staff grade podiatrist and a part-time podiatrist.

But the HSE admitted in their response that no podiatrists are currently employed in the Chronic Disease Hub in

Louth and also said that ‘all vacancies are being reviewed in line with the new Pay and Numbers cap for the Regional Health Authority’.

And in their response to Deputy Ó Murchú’s question about when the new two storey extension for the Drogheda Department of Psychiatry at Crosslanes will be open, the HSE admitted that the contractor is expected to be onsite some time next year, with a two

year building timeframe, meaning that it will be 2027 at the earliest before the beds will be available.

In addition, the Louth Meath Mental Health Services continue to have 55 vacancies but these are subject to the ‘Pay and Numbers Strategy’ which, the HSE says, ‘involved the resetting of the WTE (whole time equivalent) numbers to match pay and budget and service priorities’.

Deputy Ó Murchú

said: ‘We are seeing the effects of the HSE’s disastrous Pay and Numbers Strategy in real life here in County Louth. There are no podiatrists being recruited for this chronic disease hub, and the 55 vacancies across mental health services remain.

‘Workers, who have been protesting outside Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda on a regular basis, are right to demand a safe workforce plan and a safe working environment.

‘Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have overseen an astronomical rise in the cost of agency staffing and outsourcing, which is more costly than the HSE delivering services directly.

‘They have failed to introduce cost-effective reforms in primary care, community care, mental healthcare and chronic disease management,” stated Ó Murchú.

Ruairí Ó Murchú TD, Cllr. Eric Donovan and Joanna Byrne TD.

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES for the Dun Dealgan Pastoral Area

ST PATRICK’S

CHURCH

CAROL SERVICE

22nd December 7pm

Confessions 15th to 22nd Dec

After all Masses

24th December 12 Noon to 2pm

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS

8.30pm Mass at 9pm

CHRISTMAS DAY

9am and 11am

ST NICHOLAS

CHURCH

Confessions 15th to 22nd Dec

After all Masses

24th December 12 Noon to 2pm

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS

7.30pm Mass at 8pm

CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES

8.30am, 10.30am and 12 Noon

ST JOSEPH’S

REDEMPTORIST

Confessions 21st, 23rd and 24th Dec 10am to 12 Noon and 4pm To 6pm

CHRISTMAS EVE

MORNING MASS

8.30 and 9.30am

VIGIL MASS CAROLS

11.30pm Mass 12 Midnight

CHRISTMAS DAY

9.30am, 11am and 12.30pm

HOLY FAMILY CHURCH

Confessions 15th to 22nd Dec

After all Masses

24th Dec 12 Noon to 2pm

CHRISTMAS EVE

4pm Children’s Mass

Carols 6.30pm

Mass At 7pm

CHRISTMAS DAY

10.30am and 12 Noon

HOLY REDEEMER

CHURCH

Confessions 15th to 22nd Dec

After all Masses

24th Dec 12 Noon to 2pm

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS

5.30pm Mass at 6pm

CHRISTMAS DAY

10am and 11.30am

ST MALACHY’S

FRIARY CHURCH

Confessions 23rd Dec

10.30am to 12 Noon

Tuesday 24th 11am to 1pm and 3pm to 5pm

CHRISTMAS EVE 9pm and 12 Midnight

CHRISTMAS DAY 8am, 10am, 12 Noon

MASSES CAN ALSO BE VIEWED VIA OUR WEBCAM IN ST JOSEPH’S, ST PATRICK’S, HOLY FAMILY, HOLY REDEEMER, ST OLIVER PLUNKETT'S AND ST FURSEY'S.

Wishing all Parishionersour a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year - Stay Safe

THE MARIST

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS

6.30pm Mass 7pm

CHRISTMAS DAY MASS

7am and 10am

26th, 27th, 28th No 7am Mass 28th 7pm Mass

Confessions 5pm

ST OLIVER PLUNKETT

BLACKROCK

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS

2.30pm Mass 3pm Carols 5.30pm Mass 6pm

CHRISTMAS DAY MASS 12 Noon

ST FURSEYS

HAGGARDSTOWN

CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS 7pm Mass 7.30pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 9am and 10.30am

Good day for Dundalk FC as first division licence is confirmed

THE circus is over.

No more monkeying around’ states Dundalk FC owner

Dundalk FC owner

John Temple held a press conference last Thursday afternoon (5th December) confirming that the club

had been awarded a license to compete in the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division for the 2025 League of Ireland season. Crucially he also revealed that Dundalk would not be entering SCARP which means there will be no points deduction at the start of next season.

Temple pulled no punches as he declared ‘The Circus is over’ referring to the Statsports era which he claims landed the club in debt totalling €1.5m.

“I took over this club on the 16th September and I was told by everybody involved with

the club or anybody with any knowledge of the club that it was not sustainable and that the best thing to do was to shut the doors for good.

“When I came in there was money owed to players, businesses all over Dundalk and further afield that were owed money, legacy debts and a huge deficit in the accounts.

“Over the last ten weeks we have worked like trojans and I am happy to confirm that we have received a license for the First Division and we will not be entering the SCARP process. The club is pay- ing for the sins of others. It is not a mess made by Brian Ainscough.

“We were put through the seven rings of hell to get a license by the FAI and that is because the FAI sought a lot of assurances that we would be able to comply with all the criteria set out in the licensing process. They felt that the owners who were there at the time this time last year applied for their license using sharp practise and they wanted to ensure every thing was right this time around. Every single item on our budget was scrutinised and hauled over the coals until they were satisfied we were able to comply.

“I will forever be indebted to Alan Farrelly from UHY Farrelly, Dawe and Whyte whose expertise has been in-

valuable over the last number of weeks. Between Alan and his two sons they have been instrumental in ensuring we were successful in been granted our license from the FAI.

“I also want to acknowledge the support of Dermot Ahern who has been very helpful during this whole process as well. Thank you as well to our supporters who have let me get on with trying to get the club back on an even keel and have never questioned my stewardship. Everybody here has put in very long hours to make sure we didn’t enter SCARP and were able to get our license.

“Now we are free to sign players and we will be going hell for leather now to make sure Ci-

Twenty-two-year-old Adam Doherty from Dublin seized the opportunity to take part in WorldSkills Ireland, a collaboration among businesses, industry, education, training, and government that enhances the visibility and importance of skills and apprenticeships, while also preparing today’s talent for future careers. With the support of DkIT lecturers Gerard Galligan and Bernard O’Hare, Adam successfully made it to the competition final and was named the Industrial Control winner in this year’s competition.

arán has a competitive team for teh 2025 season.

“We are also in advanced talks with the LMETB and the FAI to allow the LMETB to use the Youth Development Centre as a training facility. This is very positive news and shows that people have confidence in the club again. There is a rebuild going on and I want to thank everyone for coming along with us. Dundalk haven’t gone away. The circus is now over and we are a serious club again,” he stated.

“To run a club of this size cost us €30,000 a week last season and it became immediately clear to us that we needed further revenue streams apart from just the gate money every second week. We have

got new sponsors on board in Zoma and we are renting out the football pitches as well as hosting children’s birthday parties and we will soon be opening the gym up to the public.

“Very shortly we will be launching our season tickets and home and away jerseys so we are actively working hard to make sure we have money coming in to help the club become sustainable. I have been punished for legacy debts and it hasn’t been easy but we have spoke to everybody we owed money to and we are on the right track,” he added.

Alan Farrelly then revealed that a phased payment agreement had been sorted out for the Revenue Bill of €200k.

Alan Farelly (UHY, Farrelly Dawe and Whyte, John Temple, Dundalk FC owner and Peter Halpin, Dundalk FC CEO announced to local media on Thursday that the club had received a license.

Dundalk Grammar School student wins the Regional Final of the Rotary Youth Leadership Development Competition

THE Rotary Club of Dundalk is delighted to announce that Emily Liffey of Dundalk Grammar School has been selected as a Final winner for the North-East Region in this year’s prestigious Rotary Youth Leadership Development Competition.

Emily’s prize includes an all expenses paid trip to visit Stormont Castle Belfast and the houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin before departing for Strasbourg and a visit to the seat of the European Parliament. In January, Emily will be joined on the trip by 23 other regional winners from all over Ireland.

The competition at Dundalk Schools level was generously

sponsored by Dundalk Credit Union and Ballymascanlon House Hotel. Emily emerged as the winner of the Dundalk Schools Section in October. She then travelled to Navan on the 19th of November to participate in the Regional Zone Final, with students from Co. Down, Meath and Cavan. Emily’s parents Brian and Ciara, along with Dundalk Rotarian Sean O’Hanrahan, were also present in Navan to celebrate her success as a winner at the final.

Emily is currently a 5th year student at Dundalk Grammar School. She continues to make a significant contribution to many aspects of school life. Emily has represented the school in Hockey.

She has been a member of the Student Council since first year and was appointed as DeputyChairperson for the current academic year. Emily has mentored first year students as part of the TY Peer Education Programme. During her Transition Year she was involved in the Young Social Innovators Programme, embarking on a project that encouraged teenagers, especially girls, to be more active through participation in sport. Emily has been a participant on DCU’s Early University and the RCSI Mini-Med Programmes. She aspires to pursue a career in Health/Medical Sciences following her Leaving Certificate examinations in 2026.

Gay Berkery (Rotary Club, Dundalk), Michael Staunton (Rotary Club),Enda Murphy (Acting Headmaster, Grammar School), Emily Liffey, Frank Toal (Rotary Club), Sean O’Hanrahan (Rotary) and Alan Norton, (Acting Deputy Principal, Dundalk Grammar School).

Erin helps to write and illustrate award winning book

LOCAL Marist student

Erin McShane from Phillip Street, Dundalk was on hand to accept an award last week at the Child and Youth Participation Award for the book The Magic Within Our Ears! The Magic Within Our Ears is a remarkable book crafted by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Irish Children and was produced by Chime, a national charity for deaf and hard of hearing children.

The awards which were hosted by Tusla, took place at the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield last weekend. Not only did Erin write a story in the book about her journey to hearing but she also illustrated the front cover which received plenty of praise from the judging panel.

14-year old Erin was born profoundly deaf but wasn’t diagnosed

until she was fifteen months old. Doctors tried to help Erin by giving her hearing aids but she struggled to hear any sounds even when wearing them. At the age of two she received her first cochlear implant

This proved to be a major breakthrough for Erin but there were still limits as to what she could and couldn’t

hear and it was left to Erin’s mam Denise and other parents in a similar situation to lobby the government to call for more funding from them to enable deaf children have cochlear implants in both ears.

“That campaign was ultimately successful and Erin was eventually given a second cochlear implant which opened up a whole new world

to her. As Denise explains, her daughter Erin has been thriving since receiving the second cochlear implant almost ten years ago.

“Erin is 14 now and doing well in the Marist school. She hears sounds through a microphone via the cochlear implant and she can manage very well in school thankfully,” stated Denise.

A diamond ring is not just for Christmas .

“It’s a scary time as a parent when your child is diagnosed as being profoundly deaf and I have to say that the people in Chime on Jocelyn Street have been unbelievably good to us. It’s just brilliant to be able to go in and talk to someone and find out how you can best help your daughter and ensure she doesn’t feel isolated or scared.

Catherine Carragher from Chime was a great help to us and we can’t thank her enough for guiding us through the minefield of deafness down through the years,” explains Denise.

“Last year Chime published a brilliant book entitled ‘The Magic Within Our Ears’ which is a collection of stories from deaf or hard of hearing children. The book is a collection of heartwarming stories from deaf kids describing their jour-

ney through life to date. As well as contributing a story Erin was also asked to illustrate the book and the picture on the front cover was drawn by Erin. She loves art and is very good at it,” stated Denise.

The book was published last December and at the end of November, Erin along with two other children who contributed to the book travelled to the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield, Dublin, for the Tusla Child and Youth Participation Awards. At the awards

‘The Magic Within Our Ears’ picked up an award. Erin and Rose Loonam from Chime accepted the award on behalf of themselves and all the children who contributed to the book. The book is available to buy on the Chime website and in the Chime premises on Jocelyn Street.

1—Can you name the now former President of Syria who was ousted by rebel forces last weekend?

2—Where in the human body is the thyroid gland?

3—In which country was scientist Marie Curie born?

4—Which is the largest island in Europe?

5—Callan’s Bar in Church Street and The Bar Tender in Park Street are two popular pubs in Dundalk Town centre. What were both bars previous names immediately before the current names above the door?

6—F & F is a clothing brand associated with which major supermarket chain?

7—Which is the most populous Spanish

speaking country?

8—How many counties does Cork share a border with?

9—What was the cartoon character

Dennis the Menace’ dog called?

10—Which is the highest winning hand in poker?

The Stinker: In the USA how many cents make up a dime?

—ANSWERS—

Limerick, Kerry, Waterford and Tipperary, 9— Gnasher, 10—Royal Flush. The Stinker: 10.

The Beerkeeper. 6—Tesco, 7—Mexico, 8—Four.

Sean’s Tavern and The Bar Tender was called

Britain, 5—Callan’s Bar was previously called

1—Bashar al-Assad, 2—Neck, 3—Poland, 4—Great

Rose Loonam from Chime with book contributors Jessie Condon Egan (front), Paddy Prendergast (front), Erin McShane (back).

Tie wrap gang raise €12,000 for local charities

A GROUP of Dundalk FC supporters who call themselves the ‘Tie Wrap Gang’ presented 12 local charities with cheques for €1000 on Sunday in St Helena’s Park. The group of Dundalk FC supporters volunteer their services and tidy Oriel Park ahead of each game which is where they got their name from.

The group were formed in September 2017 when a group of likeminded passionate Dundalk FC supporters decided to go down to an away game in Cork on the train. Unfortunately, there was a train strike that weekend, so they instead organised a bus and from that moment ‘The Tie Wrap Gang’ were born. Pre-Covid the group travelled to every away league and cup game as well as attending all home games

in Oriel Park. On the bus journey’s they started to do a goal time competition and any profits made were kept until the end of the year before giving some money to local charities.

Speaking after the cheque handovers Tie Wrap Group chairman Gerry Curtis explained the importance of trying to keep the money they raise local.

“We raise money every year for local charities that are close to our hearts and we are delighted to be able to hand over twelve cheques yesterday for €1000 apiece,” stated Gerry. “The funds we raised this year were twice as much as last year and we would like to thank everybody who contributed to various fundraisers we have put on during the year. It’s been a tough couple of year for

everybody and especially those who rely on fundraising to keep their charities going and we are delighted to be able to help them out here today,” added Gerry.

The twelve organisations who received cheques for €800 were Maria Goretti Foundation, Cara Cancer Care Centre, Disability Cycling/ Blind Bikes, S.N.A.P, Dundalk Social Services, North Louth Hospice, The Birches, Dundalk Arch Club, St Patrick’s Scouts Group 1st 2nd and 5th Louth Troops, Buion Setanta Scout Group, Dundalk Counselling Centre, and St Patrick’s Soup Kitchen and Food Parcels. Representatives from all twelve organisations were present to accept the cheques and thank the Tie Wrap Gang for their generous donations.

The Tie Wrap Gang. Owen Fee, Paul Brown, Alan Gray, Gerry King, Donal Sweeney, Ned Lawrenson, Gerry Curtis and Gareth Doyle. Ciaran McIntyre absent from pic.
John Hennessy from Dundalk Social Services Meals on Wheels accepts a cheque for €1000.
Anne Kavanagh from St Patrick’s Soup Kitchen receives a cheque for €1000.
Birches receive a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
Maria Goretti Foundation receive a cheque for €1000.
Maria Goretti Foundation receive a cheque for €1000.
Paul Callan from Disability Cycling accepts a cheque for €1000 from Tie Wrap Gang members.
Cara Cancer Care Centre accept a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
Dundalk Arch Club receive a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
Dundalk Counselling Centre accept a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
S.N.A.P receive a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
Setanta Buion Scout Group receive a cheque for €1000 from the Tie Wrap Gang.
St Patrick Scouts Group 1st 2nd and 5th Louth Troops receive a cheque for €1000.

Flooding at Railway Bridge on Castletown Road

CLLR. Seán Kelly has contacted Irish Water regarding the flooding on the Castletown Road which has been a regular feature anytime we get extensive periods of rain.

According to Irish Water a project is currently underway to install a water pump at Boyle O’Reilly Terrace to help alleviate the issue.

“This issue is an ongoing concern for many local residents. I have engaged extensively with Irish Water and the Water Services team on Louth Co. Council to try to rectify this issue. Here is the latest response from Irish Water,” explained Cllr. Kelly.

“EPS operate 10 pumping stations throughout Dundalk as well as the Dundalk WWTP, under a historic DBO (Design Build and Operate) contract on behalf of Uisce Éireann. All onsite operations staff are fully trained and experienced and have operated the various

sites for over 20 years. They also have a host of support staff and experienced contractors to call upon when needed.

“Foul and storm water pumps at the pumping stations are automatically controlled, with alarms in place to alert the operator of issues. All sites are visited at a minimum once per week with additional visits taking place during and after heavy rainfall.

There are unfortunately capacity constraints in the network which struggle to handle high volumes during prolonged periods of high flows. The area most affected is close to the railway bridge which feeds into Boyle O’Reilly Pumping Station.

“This area flooded again on 22/23 November during the recent Storm. EPS visited the pumping station and li-

aised with network colleagues in Louth County Council and Uisce Eireann DBO Team. Forward feed of surface water to the plant was at capacity and the storm pump was also active. In storm conditions there is no further action operators can take in most cases and flooding is the unavoidable consequence when the network is overwhelmed.

“Uisce Eireann DBO team has recently completed a project to install a new foul water pump at Boyle O’Reilly Pumping Station at a significant capital cost. A project is underway on a second pump which is currently with a specialist for assessment. There is now ample capacity with 3 of 4 foul pumps operational particularly due to the increase in capacity of the newly installed pump. Capacity constraints within the network remain an issue,” concluded the response from Irish Water.

Flooding on the Castletown Road has become a regular occurence in recent years.

For a free no obligation quotation

Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

9- 5 & Sat 10-2

Dundalk Active Retirement

THE Dundalk Active Retirement Group will hold their final meeting of the year this Monday (16th December) in Carroll Mead Hall. This will be the final meeting of 2024 before the group break up for Christmas. The group will return to Carroll Mead Hall for their first meeting of 2025 on Monday 13th January. All involved with Dundalk Active Retirement would like to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas.

Dundalk Darts League

LAST night saw the penultimate night of this stage of the Heineken sponsored Dundalk and District Dart League take place.

Corbetts Craicheads fine start to the season continued with the Dillon men, Barry and Mark winning the 1st to games to get their team off to a great start and even though Brian Fitzpatrick got a game back for Uisce Beatha, the men from Seatown won the next 3 games and victory was finalised by Jack Curley winning the last game.

Tony Kenna got man of the Match for his win in the Final game against Commercial Classics to secure the points for Punters Mix. Meanwhile, down Bridge Street in the Northend Bar, despite the best efforts of Joe Davidson and Garrett Doyle winning for the Phoenix Bar, Damh O Thuaidh ground out a hard fought win with Johnny Knobloch, Aidan Minto & Dicky Callan playing their part in a 4-2 win.

Next week see’s the final round of games for most teams in this part of the league. While the following Thursday, 19th December, see’s an Open Doubles Christmas Darts Competition being held in the Bodhran Bar & Northend Bar (teams drawn out), registration on the night in the Bodhran Bar, Competition open to anyone who participated in the league during the 2024 Calendar year.

Pilgrimage To Garabandal

Pilgrimage to garabandal – Spain – March 24th-march 28th, 2025. Fare includes: transport to and from Dublin Aiport, accommodation in Garabandal, bed, breakfast and evening meal, full itinerary plus optional excursions. Air flight to be arranged by individal pilgrims privately or through a travel agent. Garabandal will be extremely busy in 2025. Therefore, bookings will be taken in 2024.

Enquiries: Laurena : 0851833110.

Sustainability Programme

LOUTH County Council joined forces with GAA clubs from across Louth for the county’s first ever Green Club event in the Louth GAA centre, Darver on 27th November.

The Green Club Programme, a partnership between the GAA and local authorities, was established in 2020 to support GAA, LGFA and Camogie clubs in taking action across the five areas of Energy, Waste, Water, Biodiversity, Travel & Transport and is funded with support from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.

With the launch of Phase 3 in the programme, the aim of the Louth Green Club event was to promote sustainability within the GAA communities and encourage participation and awareness raising around the themes which all are crucial to climate action.

Organised by Louth County Council in collaboration with Louth GAA and featuring a range of GAA and expert speakers, the event showcased examples of how Louth clubs can work to future-proof financially and physically, whilst benefitting their communities and the environment by engaging in green projects.

Speakers at the event included: Colm Marry, Louth GAA Vice Chairperson, Colm Holmes Safety and facilities officer Louth GAA, Mide Ni Shuilleabhain Green programme advisor (Croke Park), Padraig Fallon Chair of the Green Club Committee (Croke Park), Brian Cafferty, Geraldines GFC, Susan Richardson, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), Ashling Burns, Dunleer Energy team, Helen Hanratty, Biodiversity Officer Louth County Council and Naomi O’ Donoghue, Dundalk Credit Union.

Louth clubs have been at the forefront of the Green Club programme since its earliest days, with Geraldines, St Fechins, Mattock Ranger, Glen Emmets and Clan na Gael all celebrated in Croke Park ceremonies for their Green Club projects, which have ranged from LED floodlight upgrades to gear swaps, biodiversity walkways and hedgerow planting.

FAMILY NOTICES

IN MEMORIAM NOVENA

McMAHON

Jim 20th ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Jim McMahon, late of St Nicholas Avenue, who died 12th December, 2004.

On his soul sweet Jesus have mercy. Will those who think of Jim today, A little prayer to Jesus say. —Remembered always by his loving wife and family.

ROGERS Frank (Fra) 13th ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Frank (Fra) Rogers, late of Bay Estate, Dundalk, who died 12th December, 2011.

To our beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. You’re quietly remembered every day, Even though it hurts, But no matter where you are, We know that you’re beside us. We are so thankful for all the treasured memories we shared, For which we will never part. —Sadly missed and loved so much by your wife Philomena; children Francis, Catherine, Margaret and Thomas; sons in-law Gerard and Mark, grandchildren and great-grandchildren Mia and Zack.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

M.M.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

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

Local poet Sean Brannigan presenting a copy of his latest book ‘Where Beauty Streams’ to Moya Hodgers, Arts Officer of Louth County Council. Create Louth were generous with funding for the book, which contains 45 of Sean’s poems along with some song lyrics. The book was launched in An Táin Arts Centre in November. Subjects covered in ‘Where Beauty Streams’ are wide ranging, some topical, some historical, some eternal. It will be of interest to anyone who likes creative, entertaining writing and is a novel Christmas present. Where Beauty Streams is available in Devenney Office Supplies, Crowe Street, Grants Newsagents om Dublin Street, the Lisdoo Lounge, Newry Road, or from the author himself.

ARTICLES FOR SALE

STARTER STICKS—Logs and solid fuel available for delivery. Loads of various sizes, for prices and information on the size of loads available please call Brendan on 0858064358.

TWO LARGE Baby travel cots for sale, red in colour, with mattresses, as new, €25 each Tel 087 9536395.

ELECTRIC BICYCLE—Brand new, suit male or female, only €400 for quick sale, lovely bike any inspection welcome Tel 089 2497902.

OLD DUNDALK & Louth Memorabilia

wanted. Books, Medals, 1916 items, PJ Carroll & Brewery items, also associated Louth GAA items Tel 087 7683547.

2011 FORD FOCUS 1.6 diesel for sale

€3,900, full service, tax & nct’d till next year, blue, low mileage only 130km Tel 085 1353703.

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION available from January in Mount Ave, Carrick Rd. 8 Mins walk to the train station and buses leave daily for DKIT. Parking available. Contact 087 9536395.

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

SMALL UNIT TO RENT for business use. Parking available. Dundalk area. Phone 087 2489646.

HOME TO RENT in Dundalk Phone 087 2788573.

TWO STAND-ALONE Workshop/Industrial Units to let on Newry Rd., Dundalk.

3 phase, 45ft x 30ft approx., secure parking, would suit many purposes including small machinery sales & repairs, retail, engineering, storage, etc. Enquires Tel 087 2071796.

CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799.

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

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

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

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

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

SPECIAL SERVICES

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

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

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

FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

GETTING YOUR HOUSE ready for Xmas?

I do power washing, gutter cleaning and general DIY. Also can hang up outdoor decorations and decorate outside of houses for Xmas. Tel Catriona 087 3172109.

BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE—

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

MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 0894016728.

ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE— Carpentry, Doors & Floors. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Robert on 083 0777666.

PAINTING AND DECORATING—No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

WASHING MACHINES and Dryers repaired Phone 087 7558506.

WILL’S GARDENING SERVICES and pressure washing, hedge cutting, gutter cleaning, house removals. Tel 0862086141.

CHARA COUNSELLING—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-7623758 for quotation.

GOLDEN OLDIES? Call the Nostalgia Line for Karaoke and singing for birthdays, anniversaries, parties etc. Call Nicky on 0874128526.

GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

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

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

CLASSES & COURSES

WEEKLY SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink Retail Park, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www. djk-creations.com.

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPER offering services for wages returns/annual returns. Please call 086 8625598.

VAN DRIVER WANTED for Saturday Furniture Deliveries, full clean licence essential Tel 085 1459788.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We Cuach

Ltd intend to apply for Full planning permission for 2no. one and a half dwelling houses at Sites 6 and 7 Clos Fergus, Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Full permission to include all associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We Cuach

Ltd intend to apply for Full planning permission for completion of dwellings 2 and 3 Clos Fergus, Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Permission is sought for conversion of attic to habitable accommodation and completion of dwellings.. Full permission to include for elevation changes and all associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, The Bike Station Ltd intend to apply for planning permission. The development will consist of Phase 1—Temporary placement of coffee kiosk, toilet and signage into existing enclosed yard, and all associated site works. Phase 2—Demolition of existing concrete boundary wall to yard, to west and south. Change of use of existing derelict storage building to retail bicycle shop and storage. Re-instatement of existing derelict building, and new extension into existing enclosed yard, to accommodate bicycle sales, storage and workshop, café and all associated site and ancillary works, at The Bagging Shed, George’s Quay, Dundalk, Co.Louth, A91 FX0K. 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, Grainne Mackin, intend to apply for planning permission for demolition of an existing single storey dwelling and garage / storage building and construction of a new replacement single storey dwelling and separate domestic store, new vehicular entrance with a new effluent treatment system / percolation area, soakaways and all associated site development works at Carnabreagh, Dundalk, County Louth, A91 YYW4. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, John & Aoife Henry, intend to apply for planning permission for alterations to an existing vehicular entrance with all associated site development works at Mountainview, Blackrock, County Louth, A91N923. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard Dowdall - MRIAI - Architect—Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mailbernard@dowdallarchitects.ie. LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Dominic Philbeam, intend to apply for Retention permission for development consisting of the construction of a side extension to an existing dwelling, comprising of a bedroom, dressing area and en-suite and all associated site development works at No. 4 Knock Shee, Blackrock, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Donations for film project from DKIT

A GROUP of eight fourth year students from the Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT) who are studying film and television production are collecting donations for their final year film project.

The students work under the supervision of Sinead Dunne and Sarah McCann who supervise every film that is produced in the local college.

The writer and director of the film, Sarah Grey, wrote the script to the horror movie called “The Cure” which will last about 15 minutes. It is the story of a queer sceptic name Áine who visits a healer to get “the cure” to stop her debilitating migraines.

After the healing ritual Áine recognizes something is not right that makes her doubt her own belief system. The film is based on a

Call to

long-held healing tradition of Ireland. According to Sarah Grey, lots of Irish people including herself and her family have experience with this tradition. That is why she chose this topic as the story of her script.

The actual production will take place in the middle of February next year when the group of students involved in the project have around six days to film everything. They will then proceed to put all the filmed scenes together to create a film and edit it afterwards.

step

To finance the production of the film they started collecting donations online over the platform “GoFundMe.”

Overall, they need around 2500 euro for paying the actors, the location, the costumes, and any other costs that the production of a short film contains. Everybody who would like to support the group of students is very welcome to donate something for their project over “GoFundMe.”

Every Person who donates more than twentyfive euro will get a Zine

with the most important Information about the crew members and the project.

After finishing their film project, the students will be graded for their project and will send it to national and international festivals to present it to other people. If anybody would like to support the film they can do so at the GoFundMe link https:// www.gofundme.com/f/ help-us-fund-ourshort-film-the-cure?qid =93a8c348e86a266aa8e 0e4571a091ece.

up for communities in need this Christmas with

TO the people of Louth, you are encouraged to think big this Christmas and to give back. Become part of one of Ireland’s most beloved fundraising traditions –the GOAL Mile.

Whether you’re walking, running, or simply showing your support, every step you take will help raise vital funds for GOAL’s life-saving humanitarian work across 15 countries in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Ukraine. Through the GOAL Mile, your family could be the lifeline for other families in desperate need this Christmas. With over 160 GOAL Mile events taking place across Ireland, including six in Louth, there is bound to be one near you. Speaking about their motivations for becoming a GOAL Mile organiser and their ask to the people of Louth, GOAL Mile Champion, Sarah Mc Eneaney of Dundalk

DKIT Goal Mile said: Christmas is a time for family and giving, The Goal Mile is a wonderful way for your family to come together Christmas morning en-

the GOAL Mile!

joying quality time and the festive spirit. We are a country known around the world for our generosity and by donating what you can no matter how small the amount it allows GOAL to help those displaced from their homes, starving out without clean water in war torn countries like Sudan and Gaza as it will be just be another day just trying to survive.

Last year, the GOAL Mile raised an incredible €630,000 – funds that continue to support GOAL’s work in some of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, in-

cluding in Sudan, Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine and Haiti.

Reflecting on this impact, Helen McVeigh, Director of Fundraising at GOAL, said: “Every year, the GOAL Mile unites people from all corners of Ireland in a powerful display of solidarity and generosity.

The funds raised through the GOAL Mile directly support GOAL’s vital work in some of the world’s most challenging regions, providing life-saving aid and hope to vulnerable communities. To our incredible GOAL Mile Organisers,

thank you for making this possible. It’s more than a tradition—it’s a lifeline. Together, we can keep this tradition alive and continue to bring hope to communities around the world.”

GOAL Mile Locations in County Louth

There are currently six GOAL Mile locations in County Louth, including.

Dunleer AC Track and Scoil Uí Mhuirí Dunleer, Christmas Day, 10am

Dundalk DKIT, Christmas Day, 10am St Feichins GAA Grounds, Beaulieu, Termonfeckin, St. Stephen’s Day, 11am

Meadowview Field, Drogheda, St. Stephen’s Day, 11am Bush Athletic Track, Home of Glenmore AC, St. Stephen’s Day, 11am Ardee, Fairgreen Park, Ardee, St Stephen’s Day, 10am-12pm

To register for your local GOAL Mile or to find out how to set up a GOAL Mile in your community, please visit https://www.goalmile. org. The GOAL Mile is sponsored by AIB.

All smiles after last year’s GOAL mile.

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