14-06-2023

Call for action as retained firefighters go on strike

By Tamara O’Connell

LOCAL SIPTU retained firefighters are demanding action in conjunction with retained firefighters across the State.

Paul Nugent from Knockbridge is a retained sub officer for Dundalk Fire Station and a national retained rep for Louth.

Paul is campaigning to highlight staff retention issues and a recruitment crisis in the Retained Fire Service.

The Retained Fire Service is a 2,000 strong part-time workforce which provides fire and first responder emergency services across the country apart from county Dublin, Cork City and Galway City

where full-time fire services operate.

According to SIPTU, a lack of available crews means that adequate responses by the service are coming under increasing pressure and could collapse.

SIPTU maintains that in many counties there are less applicants for positions in the Retained Fire Service than vacancies.

“I started back in 2012 and there were around 14 guys in training. They were to go to three retained stations in Co Louth,” said Paul.

“There was one crew in Drogheda and one crew in Dundalk and two guys to go out to Carlingford to boost numbers there.

“Eleven years on and I’m the only one remaining from that panel. There is no worklife balance. There is too much of a commitment required.”

He added: “Since my wife and I had a baby, it’s become very stressful. It’s hard to attract people to the job.

“The retainer is €8,500 per year and you also get call out fees but the call out fees are not taken into account by banks for loans or mortgage applications.

“What will happen eventually if the system continues as it is, Carlingford, Ardee and Dunleer won’t have enough people.”

Continued on Page 2

Paul Nugent retained sub officer at Dundalk Fire Station and National Retained Rep for Louth.

Call for action as retained firefighters go on strike

Continued from Page 1. Paul said: “The older age profile of the service now endangers its effectiveness. We want increased structured pay and structured time off for staff that will attract young people to join the service.

“We also want further talks with key stakeholders that will conclude proposals, within an agreed timeframe for the restructuring of the Retained Fire Service to ensure its future operation.”

He added: “We are calling on members of the public to support the SIPTU Retained Firefighters in their campaign of industrial action.

“We would encourage people to raise the issue within their local community and with elected representatives.”

Speaking on the issue last week in the Dáil, Sinn Fein TD Ruairí OMurchú stated that ‘the dogs on the street’ knows that the situation with retained firefighters needs to be immediately addressed.

He said the government ‘lacks urgency’ in dealing with the industrial action by retained firefighters across the State, including in Dundalk, which started at midnight yesterday morning.Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘In November, my Sinn Féin colleague John Brady introduced a Dáil motion that sought the establishment of a Joint Oireachtas cross-party com-

mittee, to sit for four months, and that would have heard evidence from expert witnesses and stakeholders in order to identify the key issues impacting on the Retained Fire Service before bringing recommendations to the Dáil.

‘The government took the decision to vote against the motion, abandoning any attempt to resolve a crisis that is crippling the Retained Fire Service.

‘And now we are in a situation where retained firefighters, who have been highlighting the issues affecting the service for years to those in power, have, with reticence, started industrial action.

‘They don’t want to be here, they have tried everything else but the government has left them with no choice. They have had enough of being constantly under pressure for many reasons, of having to put themselves on the front line.

‘The government knows what needs to be done in relation to recruitment and retention. We are dealing with under-resourced, under-paid, dedicated professionals who have been working in an unsustainable system for years.

‘The government needs to immediately engage with the representatives of the retained firefighters to permanently resolve the problems the service has been facing for years’.

OnE 5km Challenge in Remembrance of Pte Sean Rooney

The event is open for registration at onechallenge.eu and consists of a 5km. Run/Walk between the 12th and 17th June countrywide. We also have registrations from australia, america and England. locally we will do the event on Saturday the17th at 12.00hrs at DkIT.

If you are registered come to DkIT and do your 5km run/walk and receive your medal. If you’re not registered come along and make a donation to do the run/walk, sorry, but you will not receive a medal.

‘Bronzed

coming to town for charity darts night

Harry’s Top Dog in Show!

H ARR y

O’D ONOGHUE from Alphonsus Road, Dundalk has finally won the big prize at the National Dog Show. His beloved Wire Fox Terrier Blackdale Regent took home the ‘Best in Show’ Prize at the Irish Kennel Club, St Patrick’s Day National Show. The St Patrick’s Day show is the biggest day on the calendar for dog owners and usually takes place on St Patrick’s Day but was postponed this year due to bad weather.

87-year old Harry is well known locally, nationally and internationally for his skills as a dog breeder and exhibitor at dog shows. He has also judged at world famous

dog show Crufts and has been involved with dog shows since 1953.

Down through the years Harry has won countless prizes both nationally and across the water but the coveted ‘Best in Show’ award at the St Patrick’s Day event had always eluded him until last weekend.

Harry, who founded the Pet Centre on Linenhall Street (now run by his son Adrian), entered his beautiful Wire Fox Terrier, Blackdale Regent, into this year’s show at the National Show Centre in Dublin. On Saturday he picked up second place in the Best in Show but he went one better during Sunday’s show as he fended off

Poetry afternoon

DunDalk Writers host their annual poetry event in Dundalk library on Saturday 17th June from 2pm until 5pm. The featured poets will be Jane Clarke and Eithne lannon. Jane is the author of three poetry collections. She will read from her recent publication a Change in the air.

anchored in the Wicklow uplands and the avonmore River, Jane’s poems explore everyday living, past and present , and what shapes us as humans.

competition from over 2000 dogs to pick up the coveted ‘Best in Show’ award. The road to ‘Best in Show’ is an arduous one with entrants divided first by group, then by breed, class and gender. According to Harry’s son Adrian, his father was delighted to have finally won the biggest prize of them all on the national scene.

“Dad has been entering dogs into shows for probably seventy years at this stage and he has won countless awards.. He specialises in Wire Fox Terriers and he has picked up the Best Wirefox Terrier award dozens of times down through the years. When you win the best breed you then

go forward and go into a competition where you are up against every other breed to decide which dog is the absolute cream of the crop.

“Dad loves this particular Wirefox Terrier Blackdale Regent and he is already a UK Champion but he really wanted to win the Irish championship this year and to finally get his hands on the title means the world to him. He has dedicated his life to dogs and has travelled far and wide bringing dogs to shows across Ireland and the UK. He absolutely loves what he does and this is the cherry on top of what has been and will continue to be his life long passion,” stated Adrian.

Council return bins to town centre after POtUS visit

Litter bins removed ahead of the visit of US President Joe Biden to Dundalk are currently being re-installed by Louth County Council across the town centre.

LOCAL MAN Peter McGuinness has organised a charity darts night in aid of North Louth Hospice.

The event is due to take place in the North End Bar on Bridge Street on Saturday, 24 June. Doors open from 7pm.

“I’ve a former world champion coming over from England for the

night, Steve Beaton (known as the Bronzed Adonis),” said Peter.

“Local players will take sponsorship cards and raise a few pounds for North Louth Hospice and play him.

“Steve has been in the town before. He’d be very well known. There will also be a raffle on the night and spot prizes.”

Eithne lannon has published two collections . She is a member of Dundalk Writers so the group are honoured to have Eithne read from her recent publication Everything Gathers light.

Her thought provoking poems embrace the natural world and eloquently articulate loss, longing and desire.

Join us for an afternoon of poems read by two esteemed poets.

Free event. Book at libraryhelpdesk@ louthcoco.ie or 042 935 3190

A total of 42 bins were removed in Dundalk for security reasons in the days before the visit of President Biden in April.

However, council engineers discovered rusting of components and maintenance issues which developed over the 15 years since they had been first installed.

Louth County Council have now taken the opportunity to refurbish

all 42 bins, stripping back to bare metal and building up new layers of protective paint systems to protect the metal work for another 15 years, whilst returning the bins to original manufactured

L-R: Harry O’Donoghue , Andrew Goodsell and GB CH Blackdale Regent for an outstanding Best in Show win at the IKC St Patrick’s National show under judge Dermot Timmins of the Kynan Collies. Also pictured are Irish Kennel Club President Pat O’Boyle and Rob O’ Sullivan of loyal IKC show sponsors Gain Pet Nutrition.

Photo by Mark Caffrey of Our Dogs Ireland

Former World Darts Champion Steve Beaton.

Refurbished bin.

Adonis’

DrUg DeALerS MUSt StOP USing CHiLDren

FOr CriMinAL gAin StAteS O’MUrCHú

HAving young people engaged in carrying out threats and intimidation is the ‘perfect business model for drug dealers, Deputy ruairí Ó Murchú has told the Dáil.

the Sinn Féin tD was speaking during a recent debate on the engagement of Children in Criminal Activity Bill 2023, colloquially known as ‘Fagin’s Law’, which aims to make it a criminal offence for children to be groomed or used in criminal enterprises.

Deputy Ó Murchú said there is general support for the legislation as it will target ‘streetwise criminals who are only too willing to circumvent the law and to use and abuse people’.

He had a particular focus on drug dealers and said: ‘At this stage, we are talking about kids, even before they are teenagers, operating

as runners, lookouts and whatever else. People have moved on from using bikes to using escooters for delivering drugs as part of drugdealing enterprises.

‘Drug crime and drug problems are everywhere. not a place in ireland is untouched by cocaine addiction.

‘We will have to en-

sure we have the policing infrastructure to deal with it and we must penalise anyone grooming or using kids. in certain deprived areas, funding and resources have been lacking and we have not made the necessary family and community interventions.

‘that work needs to

be done. the greentown project is being operated in some places.

‘We must also do whatever we can in respect of youth diversion projects. We would nearly need to put them on steroids to get to where we need to be in this regard.

if we are talking about drug debt intimidation, we will be talking about some of the characters involved.

‘in recent days and weeks, i have been dealing with many people. People who have gone to carry out threats have themselves probably been under pressure.

‘they have run up debts and found themselves, through making bad choices i might add, under pressure and at the wrong end of things with these drug gangs.

‘it is a perfect business model for the main drug dealer. He does not have to worry about anything. He can send out somebody to do things. From his perspective, he can send out an idiot and the person concerned is under pressure.

‘People in this situation, in some cases, are then willing to be used and allow pressure to be put on somebody’s mother or grandmother. those are despicable scenarios.

‘the initiatives in this legislation are part of what we need to put in play in addressing this problem, but if we are going to be real in respect of the entirety of the problem we have organised crime, drug crime and whatever on the streets of our towns and villages, and all the rest of it, we need to be far more novel’.

Pop up Community energy actions exhibitions

DunDalk CreDit union is committed to promoting sustainability within the community and is proud to be collaborating with the energy team to host two energy actions exhibitions for the local community this month. The first exhibition will take place on Thursday 15th June 2023 at Creative Spark, Downtown Hub, Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, 10am to 5pm and the second exhibition will take place on Friday 23rd June 2023 at Market Square, Dundalk, 10am to 5pm.

Both events are free to attend and everyone is welcome. Call in to the exhibitions for advice on home energy upgrades and energy saving tips, gather information on grants and supports available, and learn about community generation and sustainability initiatives. The Dundalk Credit Union team will also be available to discuss their range of green products and there will be a competition on the day for those who attend. Find out more at dundalkcu.ie.

1 - Can you name the former Italian Prime Minister who was embroiled in numerous scandals throughout his life who died this week?

2 - After their lead singer stated in 1980 that his band would only reform when hell froze over who toured the album ‘Hell Freezes over’ in 1994?

3 - How did French revolutionary Joan of Arc die?

4 - In 1976, JVC introduced the VHS video format- what did

VHS stand for?

5 - Houses on Camp Street in Dundalk were rebuilt in 1949 and the street renamed. What is it called today?

6 - Australian writer and social activist Irina Dunn is credited with the saying “a woman needs a man like a fish needs”…what?

7 - Which phenomenon in physics occurs when a ire that has consumed all available oxygen suddenly explodes when more oxygen is made available?

8 - What year did the first ever Junior Certificate take place (replacing the old inter certificate)?

9 - Novak Djokovic became the most decorated male player when it comes to Grand Slam victories when he won the French Open on Sunday. How many

Grand Slam titles has the Serb now won?

10 - Which GAA team play their games at Netwatch Cullen Park? The Stinker - Semillon is a type of which fruit?

—this week’s answers—

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú

Louth motorcycle racers face anxious time over insurance cover

By Tamara O’Connell

One OF the founders of Dundalk Motopark has said he and a number of others are working on a solution to the insurance issues that are threatening the survival of the industry.

enda Kelly from Kilcurry told the Dundalk Leader that there is nothing happening at the north Louth track as they can’t get insurance.

“i established the track with my brother, John, in 1990. We have had no problem getting insurance until this year,” said enda.

“there are four sports we get insured for usually and that’s Motocross, trails, enduro which are all of road sports. the fourth sport is road racing and that’s the problem.

“there are three or four big insurance claims that are coming to a head and now the insurance companies won’t cover it.”

enda added: “there are around ten clubs in the South. We have formed a Motocross committee

and now we are trying to set up a completely different organisation.

“the fans are furious because there is nothing happening this year but we had a recession and Covid-19 so it’s harder to get the numbers now than before.

“A lot of young children start the sport at six years old but if there is nothing on, they might get into other sports.”

He continued: “it’s tough but what can you do? Our season starts in March so we are hoping to get the new body formed so we can go to the insur-

ance firms.

“We have seen a similar situation in the north and they formed their own body ten years ago and it’s working out very well.

“it’s the only hope we have at the moment. there are between eight to ten tracks in ireland and a lot of them are being leased from farmers.

“they still want to be paid and if they are not, they will turn the land back into fields. Luckily, we are not in that situation but we have to get something sorted with the insurance.”

Another Page Turner from DkIT Student

DunDalk institute of technology (DkIT) are delighted to report that Geordan Richardson, a 2nd year student, Bachelor of Business (Hons) has recently published another book called “How to Improve Your Social Media Habits” which is aimed at Generation Z (Gen Z, are people born mid-to-late 1990 to the 2010s). This book addresses how Gen Z or ‘zoomers’ have an overreliance on the virtual world and their existence in it. it has become apparent that one of the negatives of this virtual existence is you can’t delete all of what you post on all platforms once it’s posted, so this book by Geordan is all about how to learn to use social media properly and to your advantage.

Geordan who has already published 6 books feels he has learnt a lot in the last 24 months whilst studying for his degree, publishing his books, and working a 16-hour part-time job in Centra in Blackrock, he said “I’ve had to become a master of my own time management over the last 2 years. With my degree, you are in control of your own time between work, personal life and learning, and you need to be on top of it as you don’t have the same structure as secondary school. In terms of my course content, I’ve really found the knowledge gained on the Applied Market Research module has been extremely beneficial as it has helped me properly research topics before i launch into writing a book”. Geordan also added that his degree in business has helped him in a myriad of ways on his publishing journey as it covers everything business related and gave him a good broad basis of knowledge from marketing, sales and entrepreneurship.

Geordan whilst he has learnt a lot on his burgeoning publishing journey, recognises he still has a lot to learn about the industry. He hopes to keep publishing whilst finishing his degree and his intention is to focus on higher content books in different niches as there is a potential for more sales than the light-content books he started with. Geor-

Geordan Richardson

dan said “I have now written 6 books, and fiction is my favourite genre. I’m learning to adapt my writing depending on the type of book and the audience. I’m also acquiring the skills to become more conversational if the book requires. I want my books to be readable for Gen Z and bring my own personal experience to my writing”.

Geordan is also investigating other supports in DkIT for his publishing business, he said, “I want to explore the help that the Regional Development Centre in DkIT could give me as a fledgling business, as I know there are avenues of support available to small businesses and startups like me”.

Geordan is already looking forward to the future and hopes to work in Marketing and Sales after graduating while keeping his publishing business going on a parttime basis.

Dundalk students from St Louis and St vincents secondary schools honoured at SvP Youth Day

trAnSitiOn YeAr

(tY) Students from St Louis and St vincents

Secondary Schools in Dundalk were honored at a recent Saint vincent de Paul (SvP) north east & Midlands Youth Day.

they were awarded certificates for their participation in the Young SvP Programme

2022/2023

the Young SvP programme is a social justice programme designed for students at 2nd and 3rd Level institutions. the programme encourages young people and Young SvP groups to get involved in their local communities, improve the lives of others and gain a better understanding of SvP and social justice.

there are four types of project types in Young SvP: Befriending is one of the central works of SvP. At its heart is the person to person contact with people. in befriending another person, you are giving of

encore Productions win at the irish Healthcare Awards

it WAS OFF with the costumes and on with the evening wear when actors Anita guest and Mary Francis McAteer represented encore Productions at the recent irish Health Care Centre Awards in the royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire. the crowd rose in applause as they took the stage to receive the award on behalf of the cast and crew of the Dundalk based drama group they have acted in for over 20 years. receiving the award from rte’s Marty Whelan their pride and passion for drama shone through.

Across 29 categories the irish Healthcare Centre Awards recognise excellence and outstanding innovation in the irish Healthcare Sector. initiatives in nursing, teaching, Mental Healthcare, Midwifery and Clinical Care were all recognised alongside many other categories. encore Productions won the category for Best Healthcare initiative in Disability Services.

mer night’s dream – yet another of their Shakespeare adaptations.

your time, your talents and yourself to work with elderly, young people, people with additional needs, fellow student support, local SvP, random acts of kindness, help a local community cause education Project SvP acknowledges the importance of education and the fact that it can be a way out of poverty for many people. A little help at the right time can make all the difference, teach a

skill to another person, peer learning, paired reading, homework club, tech classes, information booklets, music classes, language aid

Awareness Project through this type of project, you will learn how to research and create awareness on a social justice issue you are interested in research a topic of interest and create an awareness campaign in your school, local

community, on social media

Direct Aid Project SvP is funded almost entirely by donations by the public. Direct Aid projects, where money or items are raised for a cause, should be done with a clear focus in mind and in conjunction with the charity or cause you are collecting for - Fundraise, clothes drive, collections for homeless charities, annual appeal collection, help local SvP.

SOSAD’s new campaign launched

sOsaD neW CAMPAIGn “Breaking the Silence over a Cuppa” is encouraging people to chat about mental health over a cuppa during the month of June. Be it at home or in your work place to get people comfortable and break down the stigma around talking about mental health.

Individuals, community groups and organisations can register to host a tea / coffee break and receive a ‘SOSAD pack’. All details on the posters attached.

Since 2007, SOSAD has worked to raise awareness and help prevent suicide in ireland. We have worked tirelessly in our communities to help those in need feel supported and know they are not alone on their journey.

sOsaD offer support and services for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harming, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety, or if you simply need to talk. If

you want to talk, we are here to listen. You can message us, call us, or call into our office. We have six offices based in Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and laois from which we provide our services.

In the 2022 SOSAD provided 17,837 one on one counselling sessions which is up from our 2021 figure of 15,965! Please note that this number reflects one-to-one counselling only and does not include phone support, the Messaging Service, or any group work.

Carol Murphy SOSAD General Manager “Mental health is a pressing issue in Ireland, with high rates of suicide and mental illness affecting many individuals and communities. We need to break the stigma around our mental health. the irish are great for solving their problems over a cuppa and a chat so please support us in this very simple but effective campaign”

the drama group draws all its actors from rehabCare resource Centre in Carroll village. With commitment, confidence and creativity the cast and crew have put on shows in Dundalk town Hall for over 20 years. the shows themselves are at times written by the cast and at others, adaptations of classic plays but all have the trademark warmth, directness and honesty that these performers bring.

Having built up the groups momentum and scale to the point in 2016 when over 80 performers took the stage in their irish History Play – ‘Our Story So Far’, encore scaled back the size of their productions to create shows that could be toured and would offer actors a chance to hone their stagecraft and work with professional theatre makers from the disciplines of acting, music and film.

the quality of their 2017 production of Shakespeare’s ‘the tempest’ resulted in them being asked to become theatre Company in residence with An táin Arts Centre. During the 4 years of their residency encore Productions have staged ‘Courage’ by Bertold Brecht, and their own original piece ‘Aesop’ based on the life of the ancient writer of Fables and ‘A Midsum-

According to rehabCare Drama Coordinator Sandy Sneddon – ‘what’s so exciting about this award is that it recognises the positive impact of the arts, creativity and drama specifically on the wellbeing of individuals and the communities in which they live. to be part of something bigger than oneself – to have a role and responsibilities – to work toward a common goal - to tell stories that mean something to you and say something about your own experiences is enormously rewarding. expressing oneself through voice and movement – being heard and being seen both in the rehearsal room and on stage is a powerful way to build confidence, trust and respect. And all this in a theatre!’

When asked what being theatre Company in residence meant to them the actors were characteristically vocal.

Melissa Fox likes doing workshops with professional actors – ‘it’s great to be part of something and meet new people… learn new things – stay interested. i’ve got so much more confidence since my first show.’

Martin Hanley felt that when he arrived from Birmingham ‘Doing drama helped me fit in – make friends and be part of something’ While for Jamie Linden it’s all about ‘Craic… Friends….Passion…it helps me reach my goals. the power to meet an audience…bring family and friends together. research the characters and the actors on the internet. Keeps me busy and interested at night when i come home.’

Dolores McKeever who plays the lead in their latest production said ‘i see actors on soaps with a disability – if they can do it so can we! Drama has made me more alert

and more able to concentrate. A sense of achievement. A bit of a celebrity. A part of the community. We show them we can do it. We are as good as anyone else. it’s taken us to different places –galway, Belfast, Dublin, Manchester. Places other people don’t get to go’.

rodger Zyro added ‘i never be nervous. i love working with the team –the director, the crew, all the cast. the lines help me with my memory. the stories help me with my emotions. Stories make sense’. Olivia Mcginnity smiles as she speaks – ‘i have confidence now. And I’m part of a team. if you ask me what i do, i say – ‘i am and actress!’ David Coyle loves coming here – ‘i love to perform. i’m proud of what i’m doing. i love the shows and the tours. it gives me something to look forward to – and something to remember!’ encore veteran Paddy Durnin enthused –it’s been great being theatre Company in residence. the experience has been amazing. it’s been an honour so far – and this year’s show is going to be off the charts. When i perform the audience give me energy – and i take that energy into my life!

the 25 participants in encore Productions are supported by Sandy Sneddon, grainne O’Hanlon and rachel tinniswood who work with a team of creatives – Orlaith Cullinane, Dara McCluskey and eoin Hannaway among them, to facilitate a process that allows for creativity, expression, team work and performance.

Community service manager ian Foran and An táin Arts centre director were united in their praise for the initiative. Speaking on behalf of rehabCare’s Dundalk services ian said ‘we are incredibly proud to support persons

through their residency. An táin have been wonderful collaborators and partners, open minded, forward thinking and most welcoming to all actors who are involved in each production, treating every person with the highest regard and unwavering equity. We are highly fortunate to have such committed staff who support the actors through an intricate process that is created and coordinated by Sandy Sneddon. From a Social Care perspective, we support a group of talented people in a normalised working environment that focuses minds on ability and endeavours to continue the process of personal development, from my perspective we’re just lucky and privileged to support great actors.’ the last word came from An táin Director Paul Hayes –‘i have been hugely impressed with the standard of encore’s work ethic since they took up the residency in 2019. their seemingly endless enthusiasm for theatre, coupled with Sandy’s artistic vision ensures this has been very successful collaboration. they are a wonderful group of actors to have in the Arts Centre and have had a very positive influence on both staff and visiting artists alike. We are the only Arts Centre in the country with a company in residence made up of actors with intellectual disabilities, we are delighted that this award gives national recognition to the great benefits of our collaboration to all who experience it.’ encore’s adaptation of ‘the visit’ by Friedrich Durrenamat will run at An táin Arts Centre for three performances in the last week of September. Contact An táin on 0429332332 or at info@antain.ie or go to their website for more details.

Encore Productions were recognised at the Irish Healthcare Awards.

St Vincent Secondary School Transition Year Students.

St Louis Secondary School Transition Year Students.

Cuchulainn Camera Club Annual Awards Ceremony

Amy McArdle receiving the Trophy for the nonadvanced Photographer of the Year.

Seán Kenny got two Bronze Medals for advanced Colour image + Monochrome image.

Gabriel O’Shaughnessy presenting the Print of the Year Trophy to Gráinne Ryan.

Eleanor Clarke receiving the Bronze Medal for the non-advanced Monochrome image.

Freddie McArdle, got two Silver Medals for advanced Colour image + Monochrome image.

Declan Gernon LIPF, receiving the Trophy for the advanced Photographer of the Year.

Students who have epileptic seizures can re-sit exams later in the year

LOUtH County Council Chairperson Conor Keelan has said he is “very happy” that Leaving Certificate students who have an epileptic seizure during State exams are now able to resit their exams later the same year.

LCC backed epilepsy ireland’s campaign to address two issues that impact on people with epilepsy and their families.

“i’m very happy to hear what’s going ahead this year. epilepsy ireland will monitor what will happen this year during the exams,” said Conor.

“Pressure and stress could be triggering for some people. in an event where something happens, new structures are in place.

“thankfully these structures will provide a pathway to the stu-

dent to recover. it’s very good news.”

Conor is a member of epilepsy ireland and after reading about their campaign in the charity’s members’ magazine, decided to put forward a motion.

He tabled a notice of motion on the issue, which was sent to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and the Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Disability matters Deputy Michael Moynihan.

“thankfully lots of other voices joined the campaign and they made contact with their public representatives in the Dail,” said Conor. Leaving Certificate

candidates who are unavoidably absent from their exams over coming weeks, due to a close family bereavement or on certain medical grounds, will be given the opportunity to participate in a deferred sitting of the exams which begins on June 29.

According to a statement issued by epilepsy ireland, this is an “extremely welcome development for students with epilepsy sitting the Leaving Cert this year”.

“it will alleviate what for decades, was an unnecessary additional worry at one of the most stressful periods of the young person’s life.

“We will monitor how

the new system works in practice in June, and we hope that the new rules will finally close the door on the longstanding issue of appropriate ‘reasonable accommodations’ for students with epilepsy.

“We would like to thank the State examinations Commission and the Minister for education for their understanding and for addressing this matter.

We also want to thank the dozens of tDs and Senators who regularly raised this issue in the Dáil in recent years.”

the statement also said: “Most importantly, we want to thank youour members, service users, and volunteers - for regularly using your voice to help amplify our calls to finally achieve this positive change for future generations of students with epilepsy.”

the Dance Kids Proudly Present ‘Dancing With OUr Stars’

An táin Arts Centre is the place to be on Sunday the 18th of June when the Dance Kids unveil their latest show ‘Dancing With OUr Stars’. never one’s to sit still; the Dance Kids have been rehearsing for ‘Dancing With OUr Stars’ since January and have promised that this year’s show will be the perfect event for all the family, with performances to suit all ages.

the talented dancers aged from just four years of age are promising to stage a ‘show-stopping performance’ of the classic Disney film, ‘Cinderella’ as well as many favourites from ‘the Jungle Book’ and ‘Wicked’.

the night of entertainment will also include hit songs from ‘teen Beach Movie’ and ‘Shania twain’ to name just a few. if that wasn’t enough, An táin Arts Centre will be transported back to the 1960’s where the cast of ‘Hairspray’ take to the stage to perform the most popular songs from the hit musical.

“We are so excited about this year’s show ‘Dancing With OUr Stars’,” said Freda Hearty. “everyone has worked so hard and we can’t wait to show off these fantastic kids on stage once again. After the tremendous success of our sold-out Christmas show ‘Best Christmas ever, ‘Dancing With OUr Stars’ is going to be the show of the year and is not to be missed. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.”

Sports Day at the Friary!

The Dance Kids take to the stage once again on Sunday 18th June.

Willie Quigley Secretary of UNITE Union 0327 Branch presenting cheque to Peter Sage for the Jack and Jill Foundation.

Louth County Council in process of recruiting new Harbour Master

Sinn Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has welcomed confirmation from Louth County Council that they are in the process of recruiting

a new Harbour Master.

the new Harbour Master will cover the north Louth area and focus mainly on Carlingford. the post will oversee the management and regulation of persons using Carlingford harbour.

Cllr Watters said “this is a very welcome update and something i have been working on for some time now. A number of constituents have raised issues and concerns about the Carlingford harbour/piers and this will hopefully start to address these.”

Following a request from Cllr Watters in 2019 for a safety audit, the Cooley Councillor provided an update with the recommendations

currently being implemented.

Cllr Watters said “i have received confirmation that an area engineer recently inspected the piers on the basis of the safety audit and while a number of recommendations have in fact been implemented, there are some still outstanding that are currently being looked at and on which clarification is being sought.

“For example, there

save Our Homeless Dundalk – 2022 Charitable Works

We at Save Our Homeless Dundalk would like to thank all of our supporters, donors and patrons that have helped us meet the growing demand for our services throughout 2022. We couldn’t do it without you.

school items; 42 referrals for beds; 24 suites of furniture; 15 kitchen white goods; 6 dining rooms tables and chairs; 5 home clean-outs and refurbishments and much more.

are now safety information boards in place reminding people of basic safety precautions. However, the safety audit also recommended an extension to the handrails on both piers but clarification is being sought as to the location and size/length of the proposed extensions.”

Cllr Watters added “there was a recommendation for a ‘Designated Parking for emergency vehicles’ on both

piers which is still outstanding. there will be a delay as the area engineer will have to provide a feasibility evaluation but i welcome the fact that Louth County Council are working on this and the post of Harbour Master will keep an overall eye on safety in the area which will ensure that all appropriate works will be reported and worked on in a timely manner.”

Although we offer assistance to people without a home such as walk-in food referrals, and requests for sleeping bags, warm clothing etc, we also provide other services such as delivering weekly food hampers to individuals and families that are experiencing financial hardship. We provide families in need with heating fuels, furniture, kitchen goods etc.

Over the last year we have also assisted individuals and families leaving emergency accommodation and moving into their new for-ever homes.

We have helped older people and people living with mental health challenges as they leave hospital, making their homes welcoming and

comfortable before they return, often replacing furniture and assisting in cleaning and decorating their home.

We could not do any of this work without the support of the people and businesses of Dundalk and for that we are truly grateful.

the following is a breakdown in numbers of the services that we delivered in 2022 through referrals.

We have provided 1,750 adults and children with weekly food hampers; 1,120 referrals for toiletries; 231 childcare product referrals; 83 referrals for back-to-

the public does not see the happiness that our work instills into families, especially children. to see the relief on parents faces when we deliver food hampers, and the uncontrollable smiles on the faces of children when we deliver new beds in particular as often the children have never had a bed of their own. there is no reward greater than seeing those smiles, smiles nurtured through the generosity of the people of Dundalk.

For this, we thank you. if you or someone you know is in need, you can make a referral to us by calling into our hub on Park Street, Dundalk, or by telephone or email. We will fill out a referral form with you and do all we can to meet the stated need.

Carlingford Harbour will have a new harbour master soon.

Family Notices

EFFICACIOuS NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESuS

o my Jesus, You have said “truly i say to you, ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, Knock and it will be opened to you”

Behold i knock, i seek and ask for the grace of (here name your request)

our father ….hail mary….Glory be to the father

Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in you

o my Jesus you have said “truly i say to you, if you ask anything of the father in my name, he will give it to you.”Behold in your name

i ask the father for the grace of (here name your request)

our father…..hail mary…..Glory be to the father

Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in you

o my Jesus you have said “truly

P ro PE rTY/r E n TA l S

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

Fl AT To lET – dundalk, good area tel 087 2788573

ADVErTiSE Your HouSE premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. telephone dundalk leader 042 93 -20888

ATTEnTion lAnDlorDS we supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture sets from €249 call us today www. bedstore.ie , coes Rd, dundalk tel 042 932 0927

SEll iT THrouGH A ClASSiFiED only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. the dundalk leader

CHiMnEY & SToVE ClEAninG –tel paul Mcardle 042 933 2491 / 087

666 0094

CHiMnEY ClEAnEr - the clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & vac. also gutter cleaning. contact - cathal 087-225-9799

ADVErTiSE Your SErViCE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words phone dundalk leader 042 932 0888

WE CAn DiSTriBuTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand phone dundalk leader 042 932 0888

ForTunE TEllEr - available for appointment, private or group bookings. tel. alison 042 933 5102 or 087-67-51229

i say to you, heaven and earth may pass away but my words will not pass away. “encouraged by your infallible words i now ask for the grace of (here mention your request)

our father…hail mary…Glory be to the father

Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in you

o sacred heart of Jesus, for whom it is impossible not to have compassion on the afflicted, have pity on us miserable sinners and grant us one grace which we ask of you through the sorrowful and immaculate heart of mary, your tender mother and ours

say the hail, holy Queen and add st Joseph, foster father of Jesus, pray for us

published to give thanks to the sacred heart of Jesus, immaculate heart of mary for prayers answered and graces given MMC

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 MS

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 MC

3 DAy MIRACLE PRAyER TO THE HOLy SPIRIT

holy spirit, you who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me in this short dialogue i want to thank you for everything, and confirm once more that i never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be, i want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. ameN

You must pray this prayer 3 consecutive days without asking your wish. after the 3rd day your wish shall be granted no matter how difficult it may be. promise to publish the dialogue as your favour has been granted. MP

turas announces inaugural solstice Wellness Gathering

FIRST Summer Solstice Gathering to take place in Templetown beach, Carlingford on June 21st 2023. Dundalk based addiction support service turas is organising a wellness evening to encourage everyone to take time out for reflection in nature. the evening will also help to raise funds to support their work helping people in Dundalk and surrounds with addiction recovery.

Join turas for an evening of empowerment at templetown Beach on Wednesday, 21st June 2023 at 7:30pm to celebrate the summer solstice through yoga, sea swimming, acupuncture, energy circle, meditation and more.

it will be an opportunity to release negativity and create a circle of power, enabling everyone in attendance to heal, awaken and unite.

the evening is intended to offer people the opportunity to

unwind in the calm surroundings of the sea while guided through yoga, meditation and an energy circle to take time for inner reflection. Reflexology and acupuncture will also be available.

the evening will have the beautiful Cooley peninsula beach as its backdrop and will involve a dip in its waters at high tide for purifying and relaxation purposes.

Come along and join us for a memorable way to mark the longest day of the year. Tickets available from turascounselling.ie.

established in 2005, Turas provides a comprehensive and holistic range of supports to people with addiction to alcohol and drugs across the north east.

anyone wishing to receive support can call us on 042 9338221.

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 085-840-7707

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

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

C ArPEnTrY & JoinErY, maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. contact seandon carpentry 087 298 5110

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 rEPAirS & SToVES stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. contact paul englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

GArDEn & HouSE MAinTEnAnCE

– strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. contact Brian 086-1097358

ProPErTY MAinTEnAnCE

Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, pvc facia and soffits, over 20 yrs experience.

References available. tel Michael on 085-762-3758

FiFi’S AlTErATionS longwalk s c (formerly a-alterations) tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also dry cleaning service. open Mon – Fri 9.30 – 5.30pm & sat 10-2pm

WATCH rEPAirS. Mechanical/ Quartz (battery) and vintage. in our own workshop. Most brands –cartier, longines, omega, Revue, Raymond weil, seiko, citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, demesne shopping centre dundalk tel. 042 93 39478

BuilDEr & HoME

MA in TA in E n CE —Building, woodwork, painting, plumbing, tiling, kitchen Refurbishments, paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. tel. 087 295 2529

PoDiATrY/CHiroPoDY treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. dara Mccoy, Bsc. podiatry, coRu registered 0871924794

PoWEr WASHinG of driveways/ paving/walls/patios. No job too big or small. competitive rates. call will on 085 860 4048

DDS PAinTinG & decorating services. dundalk area. internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. tel david 085

7308777

Will’S GArDEn SErViCES - lawn cutting, edges, hedges, strimming, rubbish & recycle removal, garage/ house/yard clearances. call will on 085 860 4048

MAn WiTH A VAn. Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & soffit, patios, concreting, garage clearouts, outside taps. call kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728

PAinTinG & DECorATinG -

interior & exterior, spray painting & Hand painted kitchens, etc. all work carried out by professional trades Men. call Brian 087 7558506 GrASS CuTTinG in and around the dundalk area. experienced and reliable. contact Michael on 0871477067.

MoBilE C Ar WASH & DrY from €15, also Hi-reach window cleaning service, dundalk & surrounding areas tel ok services 085 1092245

MAn in A VAn - house moves, furniture delivery/removal, yard/ garage clearances, recycling & rubbish removal. call will on 085 860 4048 for a competitive quote loCAl PoWEr WASHinG – No job too big or too small. patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. contact James 089 9705466 for free quotation.

C ArPEnTrY, rEPAir, MAinTEnAnCE woodwork, attic space, fencing, feature walls, floors, kitchen and wardrobe repairs, shops and office suspended ceilings, metal partitions, drylining tel enda 085 1481212

lAnDSCAPinG, flower beds tided up, outdoor cleaning, patios, footpaths, walls, general property maintenance, exterior painting of fences, gates, walls, etc and decking cleaned. dundalk & district. tel. Jim 086 3818184.

SEMi-rETirED PAinTEr

AVAil ABlE– internal & external – 30 Years experience, also power washing services, etc, tel dermot 087 2993660

HEAlinG CliniC available in dundalk every thursday 11am –5pm at Medical eye & Health centre, demense, dundalk. For appointment please phone Faith 087 7188450

peRsoNal

EASY GoinG CounTrY l AD, mid 50s with GsoH seeks like-minded female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/talks and to share the simple things in life. tel: 0868220403

classes & couRses

GET FiT THE Fun WAY and learn to dance, the waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the lisdoo, dundalk tuesday’s from 8pm – 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

DruM lESSonS inCluDinG BoDHrAn. For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. one to one lessons. phone 087 414 4228.

SEWinG Cl ASSES ongoing at Northlink retail park, Mondays, wednesdays and Fridays, to book please call or whatsapp elizabeth on 0872649221.

ACCounTAnCY GrinDS available for leaving cert, all levels, 5th & 6th Year, over the summer and term time tel 086 1265506

situatioNs availaBle

ExPEriEnCED CHilDMinDEr

available Full or part time. please contact 087 6919523

PErSon To WorK on 20ft boat for 3/4/5 days a week depending on the weather. Must be able to work on own initiative and as part of a team. No time wasters. email: 53somethingnew@gmail.com

plaNNiNG Notices

loutH couNt Y couNcil, i B HEAnEY intend to apply for Full planning permission for a housing development of 15 dwellings in a mix of 4no. 4 bedroom detached, 3no. 3 bedroom terrace units, 2no. 3 bedroom semi-detached and 6no. 2 bedroom terrace units @ Birch’s lane, Blackrock, co. louth. Full permission to include alteration to existing site entrance 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

Opening of the new extension to Muirhevnamor Community Centre

LOUtH COUntY COUnCiL welcomed the launch of the new extension to Muirhevnamor Community centre on thursday, June 1st.

the project has been supported by the european Union’s PeACe iv Programme, managed by the Special european Programmes Body (SeUPB) and supported locally by Louth County Council and Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). Match-funding has been provided by The Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department for rural and Community Development in ireland.

the 2200 square foot extension, constructed by Hillside Contracts Ltd and costing half a million euros, will provide a shared space for the ongoing work by Muirhevnamor Community Council.

the centre provides training courses for lifelong learning, youth leadership programmes, drug and alcohol rehabilitation meetings as well as acting as a hub and social meeting place for the local and wider community.

Speakers at the launch event included Chief

executive of Louth County Council Joan Martin, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District Councillor Kevin Meenan and Director of Muirhevnamor Community Centre Jim O’neill.

Speaking at the opening, Chief executive Joan Martin spoke about the importance of the eU Peace programmes and their role in building a more integrated, peaceful society, saying: “the facility provided by this extension will allow Muirhevnamor Community Centre to be a focal point for cross community engagement and be of great benefit to the people of Dundalk and the region. It is a beautiful shared space that will be at the heart of reconciliation between our communities.”

the event was followed by a reception inside the new shared space in the centre.

it is envisaged that this extension to the community centre will act as a cross community and cross-border shared space, providing a significant public amenity for the people of Dundalk and facilitating further reconciliation between the communities on this island.

LOCAL FIAnnA

FáIL Senator, erin McGreehan, supports calls for schools and parents across the country to follow the lead of a group of Wicklow parents who made a pact - while their children were in primary school, there would be no mobile phones.

Senator McGreehan said, “This initiative by a group of parents in Greystones is to be commended and I believe, as do my party colleagues, that we should look at some form of this approach nationally in terms of safeguarding youth mental health.

“As a parent of children who are already asking for mobile phones, I am feeling the pressure. However, with collective action

and teenagers by certain types of mobile phone use, social media use and internet content. Children and teenagers can be exposed to content that is damaging their mental health and often parents can be left feeling powerless.

McGreehan supports calls to introduce a mobile phone ban in schools to safeguard youth mental health parents and schools could be supported to delay the use of mobile phones. I do think that this is something the Department of education should consider in the immediate future with a view to initiating this policy nationally.

“There are undoubtedly some positives to smartphones and social media but anyone who spends time on certain social media platforms knows how toxic they can be.

“More and more reports are being published on the damage being done to children

“I understand that the feedback has been positive from the schools, parents and surprisingly the students in Wicklow where a mobile phone ban on school grounds has been implemented. i would urge all principals across Louthr, both in our primary and secondary schools, to reach out to parents to suggest a similar approach.

“We have extensive child protections in place in so many areas of our society and

we’re now beginning to do it in the digital space. the new Media Commission was established in recent months and our first Online safety Commissioner, niamh Hodnett, has rightly decided to target the online risks to youth mental health.

“We must make it easier for parents to limit the content their children are exposed to and social media companies undoubtedly have a vital role to play. it is my priority and the priority of Fianna Fáil in Government to continue to explore ways to improve supports and ensure that children and young people are not targeted and are not harmed by their interactions with the digital world.’’

Thomas McEvoy Director of Services LCC, Susan O’Neill MMCC, Cllr Maeve Yore, Ruairí Ó Murchú TD, Cllr Kevin Meenan, Cllr Conor Keelan Cathaoirleach LCC, Jim O’Neill MMCC, Joan Martin CE Louth County Council, Christopher Kelly, Louth County Council, Bernard Dowdall.

Senator McGreehan