13-10-2021

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Barry tells story of Emerald Exiles Page 7

Anne’s farewell to National Pen Page 8

Louth Film Festival a success Page 14

‘A slap in the face for Dunleer’

Wednesday, 13th October, 2021. Vol. 14, Issue 41 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

THE closure of the Dunleer branch of Bank of Ireland has been met with dismay by many in the area including two local councillors with Sinn Fein’s Pearse McGeough describing the decision as ‘a slap in the face for Dunleer and rural Ireland’.

Independent Councillor Bernie Conlon, said that it was an “absolute disgrace” that the Bank of Ireland branch has shut in Dunleer.

“Now we’ve been reduced to having no bank branch in Dunleer. The population is growing and traders and business people will now have to travel to Drogheda, Dundalk or Ardee to go to a bank,” she said.

“There’s not even an ATM in Dunleer. The people of this country bailed out the banks and now the banks are bailing out on us.

“People like my parents are in their 80s and they aren’t banking online. They will be forced to go into the bigger towns.”

Aidan Kerr with his sons Killian (left and Oisin (right) after his ‘Baldy Boots’ headshave fundraiser in Smyths Bar in Tallanstown. Over €10k was raised for the NICU. Full Story on page 2.

Continued on Page 2

‘A slap in the face for Dunleer’ Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

2

From Page 1 Bernie added: “The post office has partnered with Bank of Ireland so now residents and traders can use the post office for certain services but the hours are limited.

“We need an ATM in town so people can check their bank balance on a screen. It’s forcing people to go online.

“They are the most vulnerable people in our society. They might have health issues or they might not have access to transport.”

She continued: “And the social element is gone. After all the lockdowns older people are starting to venture out again but now, they can’t even get into a bank in Dunleer.

“There used to be queues on a Thursday at the ATM for people wanting to withdraw money. Dunleer was exceptionally busy.

“The banking staff were very disappointed with the closure. Their final day was a very emotional one.”

Sinn Fein’s Pearse McGeough said that ‘’the two finger salute was given to the older people and the vulnerable by Bank of Ireland’ and he stated that it was now imperative that an ATM was installed in the area.

Meanwhile a Bank of Ireland spokesperson told customers in Dunleer that they are now able to carry out banking services in their local post office thanks to a partnership between the two institutions.

“Bank of Ireland and An Post have announced that a range of local banking services are now live at 923 post office locations around Ireland.

The partnership with An Post enables Bank of Ireland customers to carry out banking services at local post offices in communities across the country. Bank of Ireland customers can now make cash (notes and coin) lodgements and withdrawals, and cheque lodgements at An Post locations.

vinced me to get my hair shaved after it got a bit of length during lockdown,” explains Aidan.

“We had a great turnout on Saturday evening and I have to thank Smyths bar in Tallanstown for accommodating us. It was a great evening which everybody enjoyed and most importantly we managed to raise a good few euro for the NICU. The people who work up there are fantastic and we are delighted to help them.

“The support I got from everybody was amazing and I would like to thank everybody who donated or helped spread the word. I also want to give a big thank you to Diane from Luminess Skin and Laser Clinic in Dundalk who did all the leg waxing on the night and also to

Warren from Chop Shop Barbers and Academy in Ardee who did the head shave.

“The new partnership with An Post means that Bank of Ireland customers can now avail of banking services at their

local post office – Dunleer has a post office and there are 23 more in the county,” read the statement.

Aidan raises over €10k for Newborn Intensive Care Unit

Myles Health and Safety • Preparation of Company Safety Statements • Risk Assessments • Method Statements • Safe Operating Procedures • Carrying out of Site Audits and Reports • All Industries Catered For Neil Myles

HDip (NUI) Safety, Health and Welfare at Work

Telephone: 089-6119878 Togher, Co. Louth Email: myleshealthandsafety@gmail.com

Pharmacy Technician Leavys Pharmacy Ltd Have a vacancy for a Pharmacy Technician

The position is five days a week with a minimum of 30 hours Please apply with CV to:

Leavys Pharmacy Ltd 94 Clanbrassil St., Dundalk or email to info@leavys.ie

A nnaghminnon man Aidan Kerr is feeling a little bit colder up top after he had all his hair shaved off for charity last Saturday evening. Aidan raised more than €10000 during his ‘Head shave for Baldy Boots’ evening in Smyths Bar in Tallanstown with all money raised going to the Newborn Intensive Care Unit in Lourdes Hospital.

According to Aidan he was moved to raise money for the unit having experienced at first hand the brilliant work they do.

“My son Killian was born with problems in his lungs and the people in the NICU in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital saved his life. He had fluid on his lungs and they had to put him on a machine to help with his breathing but thankfully

Aidan Kerr has raised over 10K for NICU. after a couple of weeks in the hospital he pulled through and both myself and my wife Lynn have been so thankful ever since for the great work they do. We had a fundraiser shortly after Killian’s first birthday for the NICU but we decided to do another one after the boys con-

Half price public transport for students welcomed

By Tamara O’Connell

THE plans to give half price public transport to students or anyone between 19 and 23 have been welcomed by Dundalk Institute of Technology’s Student’s Union president Christopher (Chacho) O’Neill.

Half price public transport for young people is among the measures announced in Budget 2022.

Students or anyone between the age of 19 and 23 will be eligible for half price public transport.

“I think it’s an absolutely fantastic initiative. It will tackle the rising costs of living for young people,” said Christopher.

“It’s definitely a step in the right direction for students and young people. I’m absolutely delighted for

them. We’ve seen progressive steps made trying to tackle the cost of living in the last few budgets. There is a bigger picture that needs to be addressed.”

Christopher added: “We’ve seen in Dundalk for the first year in a long time that some students struggled to find suitable accommodation.

“Purpose-built accommodation for students needs to be looked at.

It’s incredible some of the prices some students are paying.

“Housing is costing some students up to €7,000 per year and some people can’t afford that so it’s a barrier to education.”

He continued: “It’s mind boggling. It really needs to be addressed. Education is a right.”

Yours Personally

We’re Hiring !

Join our team

Full time / Permanent Upholster

• •

Qualified on traditional & Modern pieces Training will be given on general cutting and sewing

Apprentice Full time / Permanent • •

Apprenticeship or junior with upholstery experience.

Training will be provided: traditional, modern upholstery, cutting & sewing.

Workshop is 2 minutes from the Dart & bus lines Contact Sylvia

accounts@yourspersonally.ie

Dun-Laoire, Co Dublin - 35 years in Business

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

3

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

4

Education the key to tackling youth crime—Fitzpatrick Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick believes education is the key to preventing young kids going down the wrong path and getting involved with crime.

Speaking in the Dáil the Independent TD stated that work needs to begin in primary schools teaching kids how wrong crime is and the dangers it can lead to.

“Unfortunately, those who get involved in crime are becoming younger and

younger. It is worrying that crime is seen to be appealing to the younger generation. I firmly believe in taking the approach that prevention is always better than cure.

“I have said many times in this House that the key to prevention of youth crime is education at an early age. In my role as a politician and in the GAA, I have come into contact with many young people who, unfortunately,

became involved with the wrong people and ended up coming before the courts. As a society, we must always ensure that crime never pays.

We have seen in recent times, particularly in my own county of Louth, where criminals get children involved in drug crime with the lure of designer clothes and shoes to begin with. Once these children get involved, it becomes almost impossible for them to get

free from the criminals,” he explained “This is where we have to start. We must work on these vulnerable children at an early age and we need to start as early as primary school. Committing crime must be shown as the wrong thing to do and not highlighted as cool. Kids at an early age are exposed to the so-called rewards of crime and think it is a way forward for them. Education

Peter Fitzpatrick TD. is the key to stopping children entering into a life of crime. The strategy we are discussing today speaks about supporting the youths once they have entered into the system.

This support is needed. However, we need to concentrate more on prevention measures.

We need to start in primary schools and work with the teachers and other staff who deal with the student’s daily. We need to help front-line workers and provide them with more training and access to best international practice on how successful countries are dealing with crime. The measures should be seen as part of the curriculum in the same way as mathematics and Irish.

It should be normal for children at an early age to be taught their core subjects in addition to how wrong crime is and the dangers which it can lead to.

“In my constituency office in Dundalk, I have dealt with a number of vulnerable kids who, unfortunately, got involved in crime

at an early age. In these cases, it was evident that if these kids were shown better guidance at an early age, there would have been a good chance they would not have got involved in crime.

“I come from a sporting background and, being honest, if I was not involved in sport, I would not be here today. People think sport is for elite people; it is not. I was lucky to have played many sports.

I played GAA, soccer, rugby and running, and swimming at a time when we did not have a swimming pool. We had a swimming river.

Even if the facilities are not available, we should still be able to help.

Last night I went to a GAA blitz in Darver, County Louth, where there were at least 300 children present with their parents and grandparents.

This happens not only in the GAA, but in soccer, rugby and all sporting organisations. We should invest more money in these sports organisations,” urged the Dundalk TD.

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you

Phone: 0429320888; Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

5

6

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Irish Water must provide B report on whether the network o flushing of Dundalk has been a success or not—McGahon Dundalk Senator John McGahon has met with Irish Water Officials over the ongoing poor quality of Dundalk’s water Supply.

Speaking after the meeting with Irish Water, Senator McGahon said “I recently wrote to Irish Water seeking an urgent meeting about the poor quality of our water supply in recent months. Most of Dundalk and it’s rural hinterlands have been affected with very bad water discoloration.

Irish Water have been working alongside Louth County Council to restore normal water supply to impacted customers as quickly and as safely as possible.

They are progressing with the planned pro-

Senator John McGahon. gramme of network flushing in Dundalk town and its environs to clear any remaining manganese sediment from the distribution network following a

large burst in Dundalk in June.

The purpose of my meeting was to seek clarity about the quality of the water following the sustained

network flushing of recent weeks. We need to have confidence in our water supply, and I have asked Irish Water to provide a full report on their network flushing.

I want the report to provide clarity and outline how successful the network flushing was in removing the manganese sediment.

We want to reassure people that the water discoloration that has been happening for the past number of months will no longer occur. Irish Water have assured me that a full report on the issue will be provided and I hope that this will provide the reassurance needed, concluded Senator McGahon

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Barry tells the story of our Emerald Exiles

Did you know that Ajax Amsterdam FC’s first ever manager was an Irishman? Or that a Dubliner named Patrick O’Connell was manager of Real Betis when they won their only ever La Liga title in 1935? Could you name the first Irish female footballer to play professional football outside Ireland?

Traditionally the stories of our exported footballers and managers start and end in the UK but there have been a number of adventurous souls who have spread their wings further afield. Local journalist Barry Landy has always had a fascination with the men and women who have been brave enough to go down a less traditional route to advance their careers and now the Ardee native has brought together these previously untold stories to form a book which is released this Friday.

Barry Landy.

According to Barry he has always been intrigued by players who decided to take a chance and move abroad to play football and further their careers.

“I’ve always really admired players who were willing to get out of their comfort zones and explore the world where they can learn a new language and try something different. It’s a relatively short career so why not play your football abroad when you are young? The likes of former Celtic player Cillian Sheridan could probably have stayed in Scotland or the lower leagues in England when his time

at Celtic Park ended but he ended up having an amazing career playing all over the world in the likes of Poland, Russia, New Zealand, Cyprus and Israel. He took a few risks and found plenty of opportunities for himself.

“The book tells the story of many Irish men and women who have left their mark abroad and putting it all together was a real labour of love. I have been tracking Irish players abroad from a young age and designed a website called Emerald Exiles as part of my final year project in college. I also run a twitter account called Emerald Exiles and it was through that, that I was approached by a book publisher asking would I be interested in putting a book together to tell the stories of our footballers and managers who have taken the road less travelled.

“We are also see-

ing a lot more Irish ladies making the move to the likes of the US and European leagues and many of our best players are travelling all over the world as the professional ladies game continues to grow. There are many interviews with female soccer players in the book as well as information on the likes of Anne O’Brien who was probably Ireland’s most decorated footballer yet never really got the credit she deserved.

It was a real labour of love and I’m delighted that it is now ready to be released. It’s my first book and I’ve learned an awful lot about all that goes with releasing something like this and it will definitely be a proud moment when I see the book stocked on shelves,” added Barry.

‘Emerald Exiles’ is out this Friday (October 15th) and is available in all local and national bookshops.

7

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

8

Solutions to childcare in disadvantaged areas needed- Ó’Murchú Solutions to childcare in disadvantaged areas are needed now, and not when a government review is published, Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú has told the Dáil.

Speaking on Tuesday during the Order of Business, the Sinn Féin TD raised the ongoing issue of the lack of a clear pathway for referrals into community childcare schemes, saying that they could close and that ‘kids are going to miss out.

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘On the national childcare scheme, we

all accept that it is a job activation scheme.

‘The problem is that disadvantaged kids have been getting after-school care and such under the community childcare subvention programme, CCSP. ‘A number of bodies may possibly close in the next while. I have dealt with the Minister for Children, Rodrick O’Gorman, in this regard.

‘A review of this scheme is ongoing, as is a review of the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools, DEIS, funding but this

will not happen until November.

‘We need solutions now. Tusla is a possible referral service, which would be imperfect because not all parents want to deal with it.

‘We now need a directive from the government to Tusla and we need Tusla to set out a directive or a straightforward roadmap on how children can be referred into the services.

‘Otherwise they will close and kids are going to miss out’.

In response to the Louth TD, Minister

Simon Coveney said: ‘I am aware of the intention to introduce a DEIS-type scheme to ensure that people who are living in areas that are disadvantaged or who perhaps may have very low incomes can ensure that their children can access early learning and childcare services.

‘I am aware that the Minister, Deputy O’Gorman, is working on this’.

Deputy Ó Murchú further raised the issue in the Dáil on Thursday when questions on childcare services were taken.

The Dundalk TD said: ‘I believe there will have to be, as I said, a directive and clarity because, even for groups that have a service level agreement, SLA, with Tusla, there is still difficulty.

‘In that regard, long-term, I think those early intervention pieces that fall

within Tusla’s remit may need to be nearly separated from the acute child protection issues Tusla deals with. That is what creates difficulty, and Tusla is then not seen by many families as a fair arbiter.

‘We need to look at that in the long term.

We have to do what-

ever we can to ensure sustainability, which will happen only with the correct pay and conditions. In the long term, however, it is, as the Minister said, a case of public management and a greater element of public control to deliver a service that will deliver for Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD. our people’.

Anne says farewell to National Pen

Nigel Murphy, National Pen Operations Director; Anne Reilly National Pen Shipping and Karen Nugent, National Pen HR Manager.

A LOCAL woman who is the longest serving member of staff in Europe retired from National Pen after 34 years of service.

Anne Reilly, aged 66, from Kilcurry was the first member of staff through the doors of National Pen on September 7, 1987.

“I came in on a bicycle and cycled all the way in from Kilcurry. I was just 31 years old

at the time and was first in the door,” said Anne.

“My first thought was how am I going to mix with all of these young people. Some of them were 18 and just out of school.

“I started in production and then I moved to shipping and I’ve been in shipping ever since. The years have flown by. It went by really quickly.”

Anne said: “My retirement

party was wonderful, really nice. I have to say my final day was an emotional day.

“I came in at 7am like I did every day. I worked from 7am until 3pm. I was grand up until the speech.

“I’m just going to enjoy life, whatever’s left of it,” she laughed. “I’ve a lot of hobbies such as gardening, walking, music, and reading. I won’t be bored.”

Cllr Maria Doyle Chairperson Dundalk Town Council with Elias Mlimbila Park Supertendant and Willie Walsh Operatikons Louth Co Council planting a Lime tree in the Grounds of Louth Co Council to mark National tree week on Thursday .

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Blas na hÉireann 2021 winners announced with six producers winning from Louth In a year like no other, Blas na hÉireann have just announced the award winners for 2021, with six winners from County Louth.

With the annual pilgrimage to Dingle stalled, this year’s winners tuned in for a second year running from every corner of the country for a virtual celebration of the very best in Irish food.

The team at Blas na hÉireann has been working tirelessly since March to ensure that Blas 2021 went ahead, sustaining their commitment to celebrating the very best in Irish food and drink. Chairperson Artie Clifford feels that now, more than ever, it is essential to shine a light and give that all important boost to the talented producers dotted around the island.

“Congratulations to

all of the businesses recognised through this year’s Blas na hÉireann awards. A special congratulations to Natures Best who were awarded Best in County Louth and to all the other prize winners from the Boyne Valley. All of these businesses are testament to the high quality, vibrant producers we have throughout the county showcasing the best of what Louth has to offer through the wide range of products considered for these awards,” said Gráinne McKeown, Boyne Valley Flavours.

“These are the 14th annual Blas na hÉireann awards,” says Artie, “and despite the very challenging situation, I am delighted to report a record entry level from producers right across the island. This large increase in entries has

Local winners at the Blas na hÉireann awards.

Carlingford Oyster Company.

Morgans Fine Fish.

raised the bar across all categories, allowing us to introduce new products and producers to the buyers and press with whom we work, which is really exciting.

Congratulations to all the winners and to every producer who participated. It is always such a rewarding experience to see the wealth of exceptional foods being produced on the island of Ireland, and this has been the best year yet.”

Now in their 14th year, the Blas na hÉireann awards are the allisland food awards that recognise the very best Irish food and drink products, and the passionate people behind them. The biggest blind tasting of produce in the country, the criteria on which the product is judged as well as the judging system itself, which was developed by

Blas na hÉireann with the Food Science Dept of UCC and the University of Copenhagen, is now recognised as an industry gold standard worldwide.

Products from every county in Ireland were entered into this year’s competition to win Gold, Silver or Bronze Blas na

hÉireann awards in over 150 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer.

The bronze, silver and gold winners from Louth across a range of different categories are: 1. Carlingford Oyster Company Ltd. - Silver;

2. Hilton Foods - Silver & Bronze; 3. MacNamee’s Tea - Bronze; 4. Morgans Fine Fish - Seafood Innovation Award; 5. Natures Best - Gold, Bronze & Best in Louth, supported by LEO Louth; 6. Pearse Lyons Brewing & Distilling - Gold, Silver & Bronze.

Pearse Lyons Brewery.

9

10

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Louth Cross Country ‘even ages’ Championships in Darver On what were perfect conditions for running on Sunday, a group of very excited St. Gerard’s AC juvenile athletes made their way to Darver for Day 1 of the Louth Cross Country Championships for the even ages’ events. The club was well represented in the U10, U12 and U14 categories.

With the Girls U10s up first, St Gerard’s were well represented by 6 debutants - Aimee Quinn, Emily Culligan, Kate McKeon, Aine Daly, Katelynn Woods and Eimear Cumiskey.

All of the girls delivered strong performances, showing great promise for the future.

The Boys U10 race was a sight to behold.

Seven young boys lined up for St. Gerard’s over the 800m course - Luke Duffy, Evan Cheshire, Sam Curran, Calvin McCourt, Patrick Murphy, Fane Kelly and Adam Mulligan. In what was brilliant race culminat-

St Gerard’s U14 Girl’s Team, Silver Medalists. ing in a sprint finish to the line, Calvin McCourt took silver, just ahead of Evan Cheshire who claimed bronze.

These two young friends will be battling it out for silverware for years to come, one expects! In addition to the two podium finishes for the boys’ individual efforts, the U10 boys team claimed the Gold Medal Team spot, with fantastic runs from the other members of the team.

Next up was the Girl’s U12 race, which saw Chloe Cheshire, Aoife Murphy, Aideen Cumiskey, Anna Duffy, Megan Hughes and Kate Hegerty line up for St. Gerard’s. Anna Duffy ran a fantastic race, positioning herself well throughout, and delivered a brilliant finish to clinch 2nd place.

The rest of her teammates stepped up also, resulting in an overall 2nd place team finish.

In the boys U12 race,

Tom McLoughlin was the sole club representative on the day, putting in a very solid run.

Aislinn Murphy, competing in her first ever cross-country event in the girl’s U14 race paced herself brilliantly and ran an excellent race to claim 5th spot overall, with her team mates Doireann Conlon, Alannah Cumiskey and Lily McClean positioning themselves really well to land the silver medal in the team event.

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Yore calls for cycling clubs to be involved in cycle lane upgrades Louth County Councillor Maeve Yore is calling on the local authority to engage with cycling clubs across the county.

The Independent councillor raised the issue at the Dundalk Municipal District’s monthly meeting. The call comes as Louth County Council plans to upgrade and extend its network of cycle lanes.

Cllr Yore would like officials to consult with cycling reps to get valuable information on existing lanes.

“A few cyclists who use the cycle lanes contacted me a year ago and asked if they could have input into the design and connectivity of the lanes,” said Cllr Yore.

“Some of these cyclists are in-

volved in cycling clubs and have cycled all over Europe so they have seen the best in class.

“I took the issue up and was told the cyclists would be able to contribute their knowledge and expertise.”

She added: “Then I got an email two weeks ago informing me that the cycle lane project is nearly ready to be put out to tender to contractors.

“That’s why I raised the issue again at the monthly meeting. I think we should be getting advice from the people who use them.

“I don’t want it to be wasted money. It’s taxpayers money so it needs to be done right the first time and be best in class.”

Cllr Maeve Yore.

The cast of Aesop which began a three day run in An Táin Arts Centre yesterday evening. There is also a show this morning at 11:30am (Wednesday) and tomorrow evening at 8pm. Tickets cost €10 plus a booking fee of €1.50. Aesop is brought to you by Encore Productions, a theatre company based in RehabCare Resource Centre in Dundalk.

11

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

12

Blinds

Boiler Services

Flooring

CCTV/Alarms

Gardening

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Builders Supplies

Fencing The Stone House, Corderry, Knockbridge, Dundalk, A91EH00 - Tel 086 3152940 or 087 1695788 www.kkconcreteworks.ie

Concrete Posts l Concrete Gravel Board Concrete Pillars l Concrete Garden Products l Wood Panels Gates l Metal Galvanised Railings WE PRODUCE l WE SELL l WE INSTALL

Metals

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

13

Lá na Cruite (Harp Day) this weekend Wheelie Bins

DUNDALK, CO. LOUTH

WHEEL BIN CLEANING Domestic & ALL ARE SIGN UP FOR 12 AS Commercial Wheel CO VERED MONTHS TO AVAIL OF Bin Cleaning OUR SPECIAL OFFER!!

Phone us on 042-9377611 or

089-4092721 T&C’s Apply www.spongebin.ie or email us @ spongebinwash@outlook.ie

Windows

Full Range of Colours • Extensive Range of Designs • Irish Made Fully Certified • 'A' Rated Security Windows & Doors

All our products are as standard

Senator Windows Dundalk

Opening Hours Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2

After hours by appointment

siness Town in Bu wn Keep Your To Business in Keep Your For a free no obligation quotation Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Fax. 042 9333514 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Harp Day 2021 takes place on Saturday October 16th online and in person all over the world.

For the fifth year in a row, Irish harpers extend a warm invitation to harpers everywhere to join with them in celebrating the 1000-year-old Irish harping tradition.

Harps Alive will feature harps sounding loudly from dawn to dusk in iconic locations throughout Ireland, north and south and from as far away as Sydney, across the US, New Zealand and Japan. Closer to home, harpers in France, Italy, Switzerland and the UK join us to celebrate our vibrant harping tradition.

Lá na Cruite Harp Day ’21 focuses on three themes: Connecting, Engaging and Collaborating, where harpers connect with nature, engage with one another and their audiences and collaborate with other artists to present a new ’take’ on the harping tradition.

“We are excited that our 2021 programme highlights the vibrance of the harping tradition, its extraordinary popularity and its great diversity’ comments Aibhlín McCrann, Chair, Cruit Éireann Harp Ireland, “The harp is a vibrant cultural presence across different genres; we are thrilled to be working with so many gifted harpers and artists to shine a spotlight on harping and welcome new audiences to enjoy it.”

Three online concerts will take place where harpers connect, engage and collaborate in an exciting series of initiatives partnering with aerial artists, rap artists, singers and other traditional musicians as they push the harp to its limits, exploring new possibilities and creating unforgettable musical experiences.

The intrepid Music Generation Louth harp ensemble, led

by Deirdre Ní Bhuachalla, set sail on Carlingford Lough Ferry with 6 harps, fiddle player Zoe Conway and Guitarist John McIntyre to perform Ómós Shéamuis, composed in memory of Seamus Heaney. They will be joined as well by additional members of the ensemble who were filmed at the stunning Flagstaff viewpoint overlooking Carlingford Lough and surrounds. This performance will be aired during the online series on Harp Ireland’s facebook and youtube channels.

Public health guidelines permitting, harpers will take to the sea and the hills, to their local villages and towns to perform on Lá na Cruite Harp Day. In North Louth, members of the Music Generation Louth Harp Ensemble, under the direction of Deirdre Ní Bhuachalla, will provide a soundtrack as you meander through time at County Museum, Dundalk. Live harp music can be heard on each lev-

el of the museum from 11am to 1pm. This will be followed by a “hands on harp” event at Dundalk Library from 1.30 to 2.30, where you can come along and try our national instrument and hear some of the Music Genera-

tion Louth musicians perform.

South of the county, in Drogheda, local Music Generation Louth harpers, under the direction of Fiona Gryson, will perform at Millmount Museum from 11am to 12pm which will

also be followed by a “hands on harp” event so members of the public can try out our beloved instrument.

A full list of live and online events can be found at www. harpireland.ie.

Lá na Cruite wil celebrate the 1000 year old harping tradition in Ireland.

Three online concerts will take place as part of the celebrations for La na Cruite.

Kedington is the largest IT network infrastructure solutions company in Ireland. We provide active and passive IT network solutions, structured cabling and data centre engineering services to organisations of all sizes in the public and private sector.

Due to the growing demands of our clients, we have immediate vacancies for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity to work with Irelands largest IT network infrastructure solutions company and be part of some exciting projects, including a large biologics facility in Dundalk where we have an immediate requirement.

We have some excellent opportunities for candidates with experience as

Trainee Structured Cabling / Data Technicians Structured Cabling Engineers General Operatives Previous experience in any of the following areas is advantageous • Pulling Cables (Cat 6, Cat 6A, Copper Cable, Fibre Optic Multicore) • Installation of cabinets & racks • Cable test & termination • Outside plant (OSP) installations • OLTS & OTDR Testing • Splicing • Fault find basic wiring Problems • Patching and Circuits Applicants must hold a current Safe Pass and Manual Handling certificate. If you wish to apply for a position with us, please send a copy of your CV to: hr@kedington.com Kedington Ltd are an equal opportunities employer, and we have successfully achieved the Investors in Diversity Silver Award for our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

14

Louth International Film Festival to expand next year

The Louth International Film Festival presented by the Louth Filmmakers Society in association with DkIT took place on Saturday the 2nd of October in An Táin art centre. The Festival programme included 78 short films, a feature film, a Q & A panel and awards. The shorts programme was held across two screens throughout the day, showcasing films from Ireland and around the

world. It covered drama, documentary, animation and experimental film.

The day opened with a brief video welcome from one of the festival patrons Hollywood director John Moore (Behind Enemy Lines, The Omen, A Good Day to Die Hard). In the first block of shorts, two American films were screened ‘Troubled Times’ by Director Jared Crowelle and ‘Faces After Suicide’ By Director

McGuinness’

Lindsey Doolittle, who both flew to Ireland to attend the festival.

The afternoons specially curated feature Film ‘County Lines’ was introduced by the film’s very own producer David Broder.

After the screening a Q & A panel was held which included several industry professionals as guests chaired by DkIT lecturer Kenneth Sloane: Writer and Director Ashlinn Clarke, Director Hannan Quinn, Director of photography

Tim Fleming, Actor and writer Lorance McKeon and finally producer David Broder.

To close out the evening the festival held an awards ceremony the nominations of which were screened over the course of the day. The awards were uniquely handcrafted here in Dundalk by Awards designed and handcrafted

by Paul wick Cumiskey at Cofra Kitchens workshop. The LIFF 2021 awards winners: for Best Short Fiction

went to Ara Devine for ‘Turf’, Best Short Documentary went to Garret Daly ‘Nothing to Declare’ and Best Student Film went to Radheya Jegatheva for ‘Painted

by Numbers’. Although Radheya couldn’t attend the festival because he lives in Australia, he was informed 30 minutes before the ceremony and recorded a video message for the audience accepting the award which is being shipped to him.

Seamus McGarvey ASC, BSC, a festival pa-

tron presented the award for Best Cinematography via recorded video announcing the winner Jass Foley for ‘A Haiku To My Mind Via Limerick’.

The festival committee comprised of Festival Director Jay Peter Javeri, Fundraising Director Paul ‘Wick’ Cumiskey, Festival CoDirector Lorcan Dunne, Programme Director Sinéad Murphy, Artistic Director Colm Mullen and Volunteer Manager James Cassidy. The ma-

jority of the volunteers were made up of the Louth Filmmakers Society Members and the rest were students from DkIT. It was one of the first film festivals in the country to have a physical event. Jay Peter Javeri Festival Director explained the importance of hosting an event people could attend. ‘It’s a vital part of any film festival for people to be able to attend, to see the films from Ireland and around the world on the

big screen, to be able to discuss the films and network with other filmmakers.’ This year’s festival saw a 25% increase in attendance from the first year of the festival in 2019 despite covid restrictions. Next years festival is already being planned and it hoped to run it across three days instead of one. The festival is made possible in part by support from Create Louth, Dundalk Credit Union and donations from the local community.

Anne Street, Dundalk

Country Music Themed Night on our Flat Screen TV

Starts this Friday & Every Friday night from 8pm in the Lounge Louth Film Festival LIFF 2021 committee and volunteers.

Director, Jay Peter Javeri.

Lindsey Doolittle.

Jared Crowelle.

WEEKLY QUIZ dimensions of the Temple of history in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday evening. What did Theseus in Athens? he do?

7—When did the Irish government grant women the ANSWERS right to vote? 1908, 1918 or 1928.

8—Bergen is the second most populated city in which European country?

9—Ireland has three patron saints. Can you name them?

10—What is the very wellknown French word meaning ‘re-birth’?

The Stinker—Chiedozie Ogbene made sporting

1—Mark Twain; 2—Domestic chicken (in 2018 it was estimated that there are 23.7 billion chickens worldwide); 3—Belly button; 4—The Shawshank Redemption; 5—Cavan; 6—Dundalk Courthouse; 7—1918; 8—Norway; 9—St Patrick, St Brigid and St Colmcille; 10—Renaissance; The Stinker—The 24-year old soccer player became the first African born player to score a senior international soccer goal for the Republic of Ireland.

1—Which American writer said of golf, ‘a good walk spoiled’ ?

2—What is the most common bird in the world?

3—The umbilicus is a part of the human body. What is it better known as?

4—Andy Dufreyne was the lead character in what 90’s movie?

5—The town of Belturbet is in which county?

6—Which building in Dundalk is said to be based on the portico design and

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

15

Family Notices in memoriam

in memoriam

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.O’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 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). E.C. 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.C.

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

and the group made representations in this regard. They are pleased that following the intervention of some local representatives at the group’s request, Louth Co Co have agreed to have a CCTV system on the car park commissioned and have promised to look at the provision of suitable bins in the near future, should littering become an issue .

The group have approached a number of local businesses for sponsorship to fund the cost of equipment and signage and initial responses are positive.

Chairman Shane Mc Guinness says “ I am overwhelmed by the volume of support by local people who are volunteering to pick litter and from the support that has been promised by local businesses. We are conscious that the area is be-

special services

special services

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.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

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

Building Services—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.

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.

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

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

Roofing Repairs—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified.

Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633.

GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel 085-830-9878.

Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com.

Qualified Carpenter 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.

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

GARDEN SERVICES—Lawn & hedge cutting in and around Dundalk. Keen prices.

Tel. 087 147 7067.

Secure your Wheelie Bin with Mr. Binlockin, locks for Domestic & Industrial Bins. Stops others filling your bin, prevents interference from animals, secures your personnel recyclable documents, gets you prepared for and saves you money on pay by weight enquires Tel 042 9377611.

WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478.

CHIMNEY CLEANER—Brush and vacuum. The original clean sweep. Contact Billy on 087 644 8230.

J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775.

WEDDING CAKES—Cakes for all occasions: Christmas, Anniversaries, Christenings, Birthdays, Confirmations/Communions, etc. All made by Chef, reasonable prices Tel 087 3228790.

Fifi’s Alterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 0118728.

Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Wed 9.30 - 5.30pm, Thur & Fri 9.30 - 6pm & Sat 10-2pm.

Boarding for Cats & Dogs, Darver/ Knockbridge/ Blackrock areas. Based in Darver. Taking bookings now. Contact Liz 085-149-4858.

Garden Services—Fully vaccinated gardener available for power washing, hedge trimming, bark stone, laid weed barrier, wood chipper. Job priced.

0870951030.

Lady available for housework, Blackrock area, rate €10, non-smoker Tel 086 3502686.

articles for sale

Family Notices Contact Noeleen

Telephone 042 9320888

Haggardstown Tidy Towns pleased with progress The members of the newly formed Haggardstown Tidy Towns group are pleased with their progress to date. While only formed recently, the members of the group are committed to making their area cleaner, greener, and brighter and already made a big impact in the broader Haggardstown area.

As is apparent to anyone in the area, or indeed travelling to Dundalk from the MI or Ardee Road there has been a huge reduction in the amount of litter evident on the roads, resulting from organised litter picks that take place on a regular basis. In addition, they have arranged for a number of roundabouts at Dundoogan, on the Clermont Road and on the Marlbog Road to be enhanced by the planting of flowers and shrubs and the group are extremely grateful to Cannon Kirk who have kindly agreed to sponsor the cost of these works.

Concerns had been raised about an increase in littering and the security of vehicles following the opening of the new Park and Share car park

PROPERTY/RENTALS

coming urbanised and that the projected population will surpass that of Blackrock in a few years. The committee members all feel strongly that the development of the area should be carried out in such a manner that maintains a vision of the medium term and we have a duty not just to protect the environment, but also to preserve green areas that are attractive, appealing, and assessable for the sake of future generations “ A public meeting to advise people on progress to date, outline the group’s exciting plans for the next few years and to encourage more members to join, is planned when Covid restrictions are lifted. While there has been a very positive response from volunteers, given the area to be covered they are appealing for new volunteers.

All volunteers will be provided with all the equipment required. Anyone interested in helping out is asked to email Haggardstowntidytowns@ gmail.com or come along to the public meeting which will be advertised later.

Attention Landlords—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have, Sofas from €299, Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www.bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

FOR SALE—2 Seater Sofa & 2 Fireside Chairs for sale, grey fabric Tel 042 9352962 (between 2-7pm).

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

tuition MATHS GRINDS—Leaving and junior certificate. All levels. One on one tuition with an experienced tutor. Phone/text 083 094 1872.

lost & found LOST—Set of keys lost on Tom Bellew Ave on Friday 24th September, reward offered.

Tel 085 7683895.

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING— Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com <mailto:tribalky@yahoo.com>.

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

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

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

WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates.

Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices. ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>.

HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning.

Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www. everkleenservices.ie>.

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

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

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/ Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse.

Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-8407707.

ADVERTISE in our classifieds

to over 60,000 readers from only €5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

16

Using car lights correctly—AA Ireland Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Driving a vehicle with defective lights is illegal, so it’s important to check them regularly. Now that we are heading into winter and the days are getting shorter, why not brush up on your knowledge of how to use your car lights correctly.

Firstly, under Irish law, all cars must have the following lights in working order: 1. Two headlights and two white sidelights at the front of the vehicle.

2. Four amber direction indicator lights – two at the front and two at the back of the vehicle.

3. Four red lights at the back of the vehicle – two tail lights and two brake lights – and two red reflectors.

4. One or two white reversing lights at the back of the vehicle.

5. Number plate lighting.

Before a journey, especially if you’re driving a new or unfamiliar vehicle, make sure you know where the switches for each set of lights are, and which dashboard symbols show up when the lights are on.

Check regularly that your lights are working: when a bulb goes, you must get it replaced immediately.

When lights are only working on one side of a car, it can cause danger for other road users as they may mistake it for a motorbike at night.

If you’re on your own and want to check your brake lights, find a parking space in front of a window, press your foot on the brake and use your rear view mirror to see the reflection of the red brake lights in the glass.

Daytime Running Lights—

Since February 2011 all cars manufactured in the EU have been fitted with DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). DRLs automatically omit light from the front of the vehicle once it starts moving. The white lights increase visibility in the daytime and improve road safety. They should not be relied upon at nighttime or during lighting-up hours as they do not emit enough light.

If your vehicle was built before 2011 and doesn’t have DRLs fitted, the RSA recommends that you use dipped headlights in daylight hours.

Headlights—Full headlights should be used when driving at night, except in the following circumstances. In a built-up or residential area with good street lighting, when driving behind another vehicle (i.e. you can see their red lights ahead), when stopped in traffic, when meeting an oncoming vehicle, in dense fog, heavy rain or snowfall and wherever they may distract or disrupt other road users eg. cyclists or pedestrians.

In the above cases, use dipped headlights. These should also be used at the beginning and end of lighting-up hours – that is, just after sunset and just before sunrise – and during daylight hours if your car isn’t fitted with daytime running lights.

No headlights should be used while a car is parked. Parked cars should only light up with parking lights or side lights.

Fog Lights—Fog lights are commonly misused by motorists. As the

name suggests, they should only be used in dense fog or falling snow and you must switch them off when visibility improves. It’s an offence to use fog lights in clear conditions as they can dazzle other drivers. The RSA states that you should only use fog lights if your visibility is less than 100 metres – i.e. you can’t see approx. 25 car lengths ahead of you.

Fog lights are best used with dipped headlights. When visibility is significantly reduced, it’s also a good idea to use your foot brake to slow down, so that your brake lights can alert the driver behind you.

Hazard Warning Lights— There are two main instances when hazard warning lights should be used. This includes if your car is stationary and obstructing traffic in some way or to warn a driver travelling behind you of an obstruction or hazard up ahead. Do not use hazard lights as an excuse for illegal parking.

Indicators—We’ve all seen the driver that indicates at the last second before making a turn – don’t let that be you! Every time you change the direction of your vehicle, you must signify this with your indicator lights. Use indicators in good time, so that other road users can react – and don’t forget to turn them off after you’ve made your manoeuvre.

Also keep in mind that putting on your indicator doesn’t give you the right of way: you must wait until there is a safe gap in traffic to make a turn or a change lanes.

By AA Press Office

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

17

18

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021

19

20

Dundalk Leader 13th October 2021