14-12-2022

Amy up

for

Page 6 Page 10

TUI vow to fight pay cuts in DkIT

By Paul Byrne

The DkIT branch of the Teachers Union of Ireland have vowed to protect frontline services and seek further clarification from DkIT management following a recently sent email which contained a sustainability plan featuring 29 recommendations from auditing firm Mazars. Included in this plan is that the college should achieve at least €1m (cumulatively) in pay cost savings over the next three years.

The news was met with anger by members of the DkIT branch of the TUI given the fact that the union had issued warnings as far back as 2017 that the institutes failure to engage in a merger to create a technological university (TU) would leave DkIT isolated and cost them millions of euro. Continued on Page 2

There was great excitement at the na Piarsaigh/Blackrock ClG club as the grounds were transformed into a winter winterland with rudolph getting to know the locals. Pic: Paula Kavanagh Photography.

TUI vow to fight pay cuts in DkIT

From Page 1

The TUI had been at loggerheads with recently departed President Michael Mulvey since 2017 as they urged him to get involved with the TU process. As institutes merged all over the country to form Technological Universities, DkIT were left in limbo as they refused to engage in the process. That decision has led to DkIT missing out on millions of euro worth of funding according to TUI representatives.

of students engaged in lifelong learning, amongst other areas.

“DkIT remains an outstanding center of higher education with a bright future ahead of it, and the TUI will not allow front line services to be adversely affected by an ill conceived cost cutting measure which will compound the damage done by the strategic blunder made by the previous President,” concluded Kenneth.

Last month Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris announced €23.47 million in funding for the five Technological Universities. The funds were allocated to five TU’s around the country:

from the Institute’s expenditure on front line services, a plan which the Union opposes.

The Technological Universities Act 2018 was enacted on the 19th March 2018. The creation of a technological university requires the consolidation of at least two institutes of technology. Each consortium applying for designation will be required to meet the designated criteria and achieve high standards across a range of areas before being designated as technological universities. These include standards relating to the qualifications of staff, the quality of research output, the proportion There might not be much in the way of World Cup fever in Ireland given the national team’s failure to qualify for the tournament in Qatar but excitement levels will be through the roof at one particular residence in Togher this evening as Morocco take on world champions France in the semi-finals.

ATU - €5.27 million; MTU - €3.45 million; SETU - €5.25 million; TU Dublin - €5 million; TUS - €4.5 million.

A spokesman for DkIT Teachers Union of Ireland which represents academic staff confirmed that management have devised a plan which includes a proposal to cut 1 million

Vice Chair of DkIT TUI Kenneth Sloane stated “It’s absolutely absurd for the Government and Higher Education Authority to seek to impose budget cuts on DkIT at a time when they are providing substantial funding to other Institutes in other regions.

“The Government and Higher Education Authority have linked funding for Institutes of Technology to participation in the Technological University process and they are fully aware that while DkIT staff are overwhelmingly in favour of enter-

ing the Technological University process this ambition was frustrated for years by former President Michael Mulvey’s refusal to engage with potential partners, a strategy that was strongly opposed by the Union as it saw DkIT losing out on millions in funding for Technological University development.

“The TUI is optimistic that new leadership will progress to see the Institute finally apply for Technological University status, even though much time and opportunities have been squandered during Michael Mulvey’s period as President and the North East region disadvantaged as a result.

According to the Mazar’s report, in December 2021,DkIT reported a draft deficit of €1m for 2020/21 and projected a deficit of €2.6m for 2021/22 to the HEA.

The Institute also indicated that these deficits were likely to increase further over the next two years with initial draft projections showing a deficit of €3.4m for 2022/23 and €5.5m for 2023/2024.

At a time when millions upon millions of euro are being given to TU’s all across the country it seems DkIT is the outlier as they struggle to balance their books and consider Mazer’s sustainability plan to get back on track financially.

World Cup Fever hits Togher!

Portugal were sent packing in the quarter finals, with Youssef En Nesyri’s soaring header securing a 1-0 victory for Morocco.

According to Latif the job done by manager Walid Regragui has been nothing short of remarkable.

Latif Elmaadi, from Casablanca in Morocco, left his native country eighteen years ago to come to Ireland for work and he has since settled in Togher with his wife Mairead. Latif, who works in I.T, says he is very excited and quietly confident ahead of tonight’s game against reigning world cup holders France. Morocco have been the surprise package of the tournament in Qatar.

The North Africans have stunned the

footballing world with their fairytale run at the World Cup – becoming the first Arab and African country to reach the tournament’s last four.

They topped their group after beating Belgium and Canada and drawing against Croatia before stunning Spain in the last 16 with a dramatic win on penalties.

“This is such an exciting time for the people of Morocco. Nobody expected this. The manager was only brought in during August of this year and the improvements he has made in a few short months have been unbelievable. I have been watching every game at home and my family back in Casablanca have been sending me pictures and videos of the scenes back home.

“The streets are full of people dancing and singing and it’s amazing to see those scenes. I’m confident we can beat France

and then we will be in the final and in with a real chance of actually winning the world cup. I have two children who are 19 and 21 and they too are really excited about the game tomorrow. I love football and I am a coach with Walshestown FC in Clogherhead where I coach the U13’s. I am currently the holder of a UEFA D license and it is something I am very passionate about.

“I have a Moroccan friend here in Ireland and he will call around tomorrow evening (Wednesday) to watch the match and hopefully we will be celebrating at full time,” stated Latif. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for my country to win a World Cup and I really hope we can shock the world again this evening and make it into the final,” he added.

Latif Elmaadi will be cheering on his beloved Morocco against France this evening.

Fitzpatrick welcomes Gambling Regulation bill

I NDEPENDENT TD Peter Fitzpatrick has welcomed the Gambling Regulation bill which will provide for a modernisation of the licensing and regulation of gambling as well as banning all forms of gambling promotion. According to Deputy Fitzpatrick the bill was particularly relevant to Co. Louth given the huge amount of betting shops around the county.

“This topic is relevant to my constituency of Louth and East Meath, as Louth, which is the smallest county in Ireland, has the highest concentration of betting shops per capita.

A report by the HRb highlights that approximately 90,000 adults are low-risk gamblers, 35,000 are moderaterisk gamblers and 12,000 adults are problem gamblers whose gambling has negative consequences and entails a possible loss of control. According to the report, there are associated links between problem gambling,

social deprivation and substance use disorders, which highlights the bidirectional negative influence of socioeconomic deprivation on an individual’s life.

The main purpose of the bill is to provide significant legislative and regulatory reform to ensure that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way, protect children, provide safeguards to address problem gambling, including in terms of gambling advertising, and prevent gambling from being a source of or support to crime. It is among the most significant Bills to be brought before the Houses in respect of the gambling industry.

“The impact of gam-

bling on many families and individuals has inflicted pain over the decades, especially given the nature of social media presence and online accessibility, which allows people to be targeted individually and often exploits their weaknesses. Last week, a constituent came to my clinic in Dundalk who had a gambling problem and, as a result, was living on the streets. Despite the homelessness section in Louth County Council helping him, he has a substance abuse problem and a gambling addiction and is not receiving the help he needs with rehabilitation. His is just one story. I speak with homeless people with addictions in my clinic weekly. They often become homeless as a result of numerous addictions, such as gambling, drink and drugs. Saying that the number of people addicted to gambling lies somewhere between 0.5% and just over 1% is massaging the figures.

“It is a known fact that sports and betting have

become deeply intertwined in recent years. This has been driven by major television coverage, advertising and social media exposure whereby young people have been seduced by the glamour and excitement of sports and betting. This recreational exposure, which often leads to addiction, has led to vulnerable youths being drawn into the world of easy money.

Given the way betting shops operate, it is not possible to control or monitor underage behaviour.

“I will raise a number of matters specifically related to Parts 2, 4 and 6. Regarding Part 2, I support and absolutely welcome the provision for the establishment of the gambling regulatory authority of Ireland, the establishment of the national gambling exclusion register and the management of a social impact fund. These initiatives will reduce and eliminate compulsive and excessive gambling. This is a positive step,” he added.

Gambling Regulation Bill should not be rushed states O’Murchú

GAMbLING has a huge impact on people’s lives and the Gambling Regulation bill is a ‘good first step’ in trying to deal with an industry where people are ‘just a step away from impoverishing themselves’, according to Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú.

The Dundalk TD was speaking during a debate in Leinster House on the Gambling Regulation bill, which, he said, people had been waiting decades for, but the legislation ‘should not be rushed’

Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘We need to ensure we cover as many of the loopholes as possible. Many of us know people who suffered from gambling addiction, whether anecdotally, from the work we do in our constituencies or from those we know.

‘I have heard it said many times that you can only drink so much, you can only put so much in your arm or up your nose but when it comes to gambling there are no holds barred. That is not to under-estimate or underplay the impact we have when we deal with those other addictions.

‘However, given the free access people have in regard to

gambling, unlike previously when people had to regulate themselves to make it down to a particular place to make a punt, unfortunately because of smart phones to which we all have access, you are literally a step away from impoverishing yourself.

‘We all welcome the moves in regard to the watershed in regard to advertising but a wider conversation is needed in regard to the entanglement of sports, gambling and advertising, and advertising within advertising. Trying to deal with the online sphere is incredibly difficult.

‘Certain tools are now available to us because we are talking about the algorithms that some of the betting companies use to improve their own odds to get the best bang for their buck

from some of their punters.

We need to be able to reset that game from the point of view of the algorithms being used, as they are in certain jurisdictions, and from the point of view of showing up problem gambling as soon as possible in order that it can be locked down.

I understand that it is difficult to have a regulatory framework that can deal with this but that is the world we are in. It is what we are up against and it is what we need to deal with’.

He also highlighted online gambling targeting children.

He said: ‘We all know that from a very young age, children are being conditioned in regard to gambling. Again, we know of the games within games and we know about Roblox and simulated casino gaming. It is way beyond reprehensible. As I said, there has been a huge impact on many lives.

‘We need to make sure we can catch as much as is necessary before the finalised bill goes through. I hope the Minister is open to what the Opposition is saying and, in particular, to the amendments that will come from this side of the House.

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

ruairí Ó murchú, TD.

Outcomers

OUTCOMERS LGBTI+ Community Support Services are delighted with the news the we have been awarded €265,000 through the Community Centres Investment Fund, the funding has been provided to up grade and refurbish our community centre in Dundalk Town, to improve access to all of our services to include a café space update bathrooms and community space and to reduce our impact on the environment through an up-to-date heating system and solar panels.

Our vision is to create a space where we can celebrate with the whole community and to provide an inclusive space that will be bright welcoming and warm.

It will be a place of learning and development and a space for

everyone, we want to give LGBTI+ people the chance to grow and move forward in their lives as full and active members of their community.

In to the future, Outcomers can be a place that may be able to support young people with access to education, that our centre will be here to represent and be a safe space for our community.

All of this is made possible by the ongoing support of the LGBTI+ community in the North East, our funders and supporters the HSE, Louth County Council, POBAL, Tusla, LMETB, SICAP, CYPSC, DCDEIY, Dundalk Credit Union CMETB, DOJ. On this fund the Department for Rural and Community Development.

De La Dippers do it for Vincent de Paul

THE De la Dippers of 2022 woke up to bracing air temperatures of 0 degrees last Wednesday as they prepared for a charity dip in aid of St Vincent de Paul. The first glistening sprinkles of frost made everything look beautiful but added more challenges for this years’ swimmers.

Despite the baltic conditions 62 students and five teachers headed on the buses to the pier in Carlingford to take the plunge in aid of St Vincent de Paul.

De La Salle teacher Cara McAdam has been in charge of the school’s St Vincent de Paul fundraiser for the last fifteen years and she was proud of the students who chose to give something back to those less fortunate.

“What better way to literally chill out after the demands of the Christmas exams last week! Concern for the Poor and Social Justice

is one of our Lasallian core principles. We aim to ensure our students are given opportunities to give something back and to think about others who may not be as fortunate. This event allows our students to do this while having fun

with their friends. The De la Dip has been on the go since 2005. For the last number of years all proceeds have been donated to St Vincent de Paul. Todays’ event has raised €3200 so far,” revealed Cara.

“The families and

friends of our students have been so generous, and we are very grateful! Huge thanks to all who took part. We are still open to donations either by the donate button page or to someone you know who participated in the event. We

hope you enjoy some of the pictures from today that capture just how unbelievably cold it was!

“We hope the bravery of The De la Dippers will help you dig a little deeper for SVP this Christmas,” stated Cara.

De la Salle students braved the icy waters last week as they took part in a charity dip in Carlingford to raise money for St Vincent de Paul.

Dundalk Chamber urge people to Shop Local this Christmas

CHRISTMAS will be a particularly happy time this year for most in Dundalk even with the challenges of the cost of living. The end of all Covid restrictions means that all are looking forward to a return to normality.

And according to the Dundalk Chamber of Commerce there is no better place than Dundalk to enjoy the festive season due to number of factors which they have outlined below.

“Louth County Council have as in previous years reduced by 50% all car park charges for the month of December

BIDS have a magnificent Christmas light display and a special light display sponsored by Dundalk Credit Union.

Dundalk Chamber successfully lobbied to see the Government increase the amount an employee can receive

from an employer from €500 to €1,000 TAX FREE.

This has seen a dramatic increase in the Chamber’s sale of SHOP LOCAL VOUCHERS, the ideal present not just for employees but for all.

As Una McGoey, President of Dundalk Chamber says

If you want to encourage people of all ages to shop local, then with over 300 shops, it makes sense to give the Dundalk currency rather than cash, which could be spent on Non -local companies on the internet. There are now Dundalk retailers who have received online vouchers from Louth LEO and it may be pos-

sible to use the shop local vouchers. So please support local retailers who employ locals who then spend their wages in the locality, so we all win.

Paddy Malone, PRO of the Chamber points out that the simplest and cheapest way for an employer to say thanks at Christmas is with a shop local voucher, no PAYE/USC/or PRSI.

Th voucher, unlike others has no expiry date and all costs are met by the Chamber and our sponsors.

So, the message this Christmas is visit Dundalk where your euro will go further. Please also support our local charities, if you are able.

local shoppers are being urged to support local traders when they do their Christmas shopping this festive season.

Christmas mass times for the Dun Dealgan �astoral �rea

sT PaTriCK’s

ParisH

Christmas Ev E

ST PATRICK’S CHURCH

Christmas Carols 8.30pm; Mass 9pm

ST NICHOLAS’ CHURCH

Christmas Carols 7.30pm; Mass 8pm

Christmas Day

ST PATRICK’S CHURCH Mass 9am & 11am

ST NICHOLAS’ CHURCH Mass 8.30am, 10.30am & 12 Noon

HOLy FaMiLy ParisH

Christmas Ev E

Children's Mass 4pm; Christmas Carols 8.30pm; Mass 9pm

Christmas Day Mass 9am, 10.30am, & 12noon

THE MarisTs

Christmas Ev E Mass 7pm

Christmas Day Mass 7am & 10am

THE rEDEMPTOrisTs

Christmas Ev E

Christmas Carols 11.30pm; Mass 12 Midnight Christmas Day Mass 9.30am, 11am, & 12.30pm

HOLy rEDEEMEr

ParisH

Christmas Ev E

Family Mass 6pm; Mass 9pm Christmas Day Mass 10am & 11.30am

Friary CHUrCH

Christmas Ev E

Mass 9.30pm Christmas Day Mass 8am, 10am & 12noon

MassEs

rEDEEMEr,

HaggarDsTOWn/ BL aCKrOCK

Twelve Carols of Christmas Carol Service, the Parish Churches' and Schools' Choir, Sunday, 18th December, 5pm, St Oliver Plunkett, Blackrock

Penitential Healing Service in St Fursey’s,Haggardstown, Monday, 19th December, at 7pm.

Christmas Ev E

ST OLIVER PLUNKETT, BLACKROCK

Christmas Carols 2.30pm; Mass 3pm &; Christmas Carols 5.30pm; Mass 6pm

ST FURSEY’S, HAGGARDSTOWN Christmas Carols 7pm; Mass 7.30pm

Christmas Day

Louth Masters Cross Country Championship

SUNDAY past saw runners from across the county meet for the final date on Louth cross country calendar for 2022 - the Master’s Cross Country Championships at McCrystal’s Cross Country Course in Jenkinstown.

Action first got underway as the ladies’ race took off, with winner Karen Costello (Dunleer) putting on a fine display of running ahead of Mary Leech (Drogheda & District) and Aine Mcbride (Dunleer) who matched each other stride for stride throughout the race. Patricia Mulholland, the sole North East Runners representative in the race, ran strongly over the hills to take gold in the O65 category.

Attention then turned to the men’s race, where a strong field was assembled to contest for individual titles as well as team prizes in the O35 and O50 categories.

Declan Toal (NER) led from the gun and came home a confident win-

ner. He was followed in by Shane Lynch from Glenmore AC, a strong runner over the country, who took the O40 individual title.

There was further interest for the North East Runners in the chasing pack with Garry Mulligan and Liam Fergus battling against Rodney Thornton and brian Martin of Drogheda & District – all contesting for the O40 podium. Thornton from Drogheda was looking fresh heading into the last lap and made a push to break away from the pack, with only Mulligan

proving strong enough to give chase. Giving the Drogheda man some 10 metres coming into the final 100m it looked like NER’s Mulligan had left it too late, however he unleashed a characteristic kick to pass Thornton in the final yards to come home second O40. With the overall winner of the day, Toal, stepping down an age category to aid his club mates, the scoring four on the NER O35 team was completed by Liam Fergus and Donal Hegarty who took the O35 Louth Cross Country team title.

The Dundalk men also

had a strong O50s team with competition within the club to be among the scoring three. The team was led home by Mark O’Connor, who finished 3rd individual O50.

Coach Jim Gonnelly made his way through the field over the course of the race to finish as first man O55. Pat McElarney came home third for the O50 team and ensured that NER took home the team title.

Other runners on the day for NER included George Shields (3rd O55), a newly returned from injury Niall Gorham, Ronan Halpenny and Gareth McKevitt. Mention also goes to Donnchadh Hughes who followed up a fine 16th place finish in the National Novice Cross Country in Cork, with a 15.06 5k at the Newmarket 5k on Sunday. -15

If you are interested in improving your running in 2023, club training is 6.15pm every Tuesday at St. Helena’s Park. All abilities welcome.

A diamond ring is not just

Amy in contention for RTE Sportsperson of the Year

DUNDALK boxer Amy broadhurst has been recognised for her outstanding achievements in the ring in 2022 by receiving a nomination for RTE Sports person of the Year.

Amy was nominated alongside her hero Katie Taylor who made history when she fought Amanda Serrano in Madison Square Garden with the pair becoming the first female boxers ever to headline a card at the mecca of boxing. Amy helped Katie prepare for that historic bout with the bray fighter bringing the 25year old southpaw over to Connecticut for two weeks for sparring in preparation of her Serrano bout.

both boxers were nominated alongside Rory McIlroy, David Clifford, Josh van der Flier, Rachael blackmore, Katie McCabe, Rhys McClenaghan, Ciara Mageean, and Ronan Grimes.

Amy began the year

with a clear plan and stated that she was targeting gold in the Commonwealth, European and World Championships in 2022.

Shortly after returning from Connecticut, broadhurst began to focus on the World Championships in Istanbul which took place in May and her hard work payed off in spades as she defeated Algeria’s Imane

Khelif in the final, winning her three rounds for an overall 5-0 score. broadhurst received a memorable welcome home with friends, family and neighbours gathering outside her home in Glenmore Park to welcome home the newly crowned champion of the world.

Broadhurst who fights out of St bronagh’s boxing Club in Rostrevor

was eligible to fight for Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Games in birmingham through her dad Tony who was born in Slough. In August, Amy became the first female boxer to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games for Northern Ireland by beating England’s Gemma Richardson in the lightweight final.

The perfect year was completed in October when Amy won gold at the European Championships in Montenegro thanks to a dominant 5-0 win over Ukraine’s Mariia bova in the Light Welterweight 63kg final. As well as winning gold Amy was also named the boxer of the tournament.

The winner will be confirmed next Sunday when Jacqui Hurley, Evanne Ní Chuilinn and Ruby Walsh will present the RTÉ Sport Awards 2022 live on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player at 9.45pm on 17 December.

Amy Broadhurst enjoyed a perfect 2022.

mark o’Connor, Pat mcelarney and Jim Gonnelly helped ner take home the team title.

Louth GAA stadium will be shovel ready in early 2023

LOUTH GAA have confirmed that work began last Wednesday on its new stadium site and that the long-awaited project will be ‘shovel’ ready for the main contract in early 2023.

Last month the Independent TD and Louth GAA County Chairman, Peter Fitzpatrick revealed that the new Louth GAA stadium project which had stalled due to a lack of funding was back on

track thanks to a government initiative designed to encourage foreign investment.

The €14.8m worth of funding will come from the Government’s ‘Irish Immigrant Investor Programme’ which was set up in 2012 to encourage foreign investment and to stimulate employment. 37 foreign investors have agreed to donate €400,000 each towards the stadium project which meant

that the project is now well and truly back on track having looked to be in danger of collapsing due to spiralling building costs.

A statement from Louth GAA confirmed that work had begun to conclude the site enabling works which means that work for the main contract can begin early next year.

“Delighted to announce that work began today on

Dundalk Gaels raise €1,500 for SOSAD

AFTER our recent social club event Reeling in the Years held in the Imperial hotel, The club where delighted to be able to present Sosad Dundalk with a cheque for €1,500 money which was raised from a raffle as part of the night.

Chairperson Daniel Watters “The club recently held their first large event in a number of years, Reeling in the Years, and what a fantastic night it was. Thanks to everyone who participated in it and particularly our organising committee for all their hard

work. As part of the event, the club wished to give something back to the community we

live in and it was decided to make a donation to Sosad. They work in extremely

difficult circumstances and provide an important service to the community. We wish

them all the best in the future and thank them for everything they do”.

our stadium site which will see the conclusion of the site enabling works.

The enabling works commenced in 2019 with the bulk filling of the site and continued in 2021/22 with the ducting of overhead ESb, creation of an access route to Hardys Lane and perimeter fencing works.

“This final stage will see the consolidation of all the infill soil and levelling of the

site to proposed finished levels using a process known as soil stabilisation.

The site will be ‘shovel’ ready for the main contract in early 2023,”

Speaking last month to the Dundalk Leader, Fitzpatrick said he was hopeful that the stadium will be completed in 2024 with the aim being to have the 2024 Senior County Football final as the first game to be held there.

Second Old Dundalk Society Lecture A Success

The second lecture in the Old Dundalk Society (ODS) ‘Winter Series’ took place at the Louth County Museum on Wednesday 7th December last and it was an outstanding success. The lecture given by Brendan Mc Avinue was delivered to a ‘full house’ in the County Museum Dundalk AV Theatre.

Brendan’s presentation entitled ‘The Changing of the Guard’ focused on the development of policing in Ireland over one

hundred years. The packed venue enjoyed the event, which gave a meticulous researched insight into the development of the Garda

Siochana. This was the second in a series of planned lectures by the ODS, which will continue to be delivered in 2023.

n a Piarsaigh/ Blackrock C lG Winter Wonderland

Brendan McAvinue and Michael Gaynor at Old Dundalk Society Lecture.

Laura Connolly, Dundalk Gaels LGFA Chairperson, Sean McCaffrey and Claire Kirby (Gaels)and Daniel Watters Dundalk Gaels Chairperson present a cheque to Peter Nordone from Sosad Dundalk.

All Pics courtesy of Paula Kavanagh Photography.

Futsal Fun in Dundalk

BRACING the icy cold weather early on a Sunday morning, players from the Warrior Wolves, together with new players attended a Futsal Fun day in Dundalk.

A session of Futsal, a 5 a side game played indoors, was delivered by coaches from local club Rock Celtic FC as part of an initiative of Down Syndrome Ireland Louth/Meath branch.

“In our search for indoor facilities, I contacted Johnny Johnson at Rock Celtic FC. In the conversation Johnny mentioned that this event could be something their club would be interested in. We were blown away by the commitment of the coaches who delivered the session. They were fun, ready to learn and ready to coach,” said

Tessa van Heerden, coordinator of the Warrior Wolves.

The lads were delighted to meet the new coaches and thoroughly enjoyed the activities and drills they presented.

The unique nature of the event, being offered to players with Down Syndrome made for a level playing field in relation to the additional physical challenges experienced by players with Down syndrome. So much so, that parents drove from Dublin and the North in order for their sons to avail of this opportunity.

Paul Smyth, from the FAI’s Football for All program, lent the professional hand in explaining what Futsal entails and which skills are used during play.

This initiative is part of a goal to create awareness around Futsal for players with Down syndrome, with the hope to deliver these opportunities across Ireland. The benefit of training through the winter is a bonus.

“For us, the power lies in the local collaboration of organizations who came together to host this event. We had Rock Celtic FC, Louth Local Sports Partnership, the FAI and Down syndrome Ireland Louth/Meath branch all contributing and having this kind of support for our players makes them walk tall.” Sanet Jordaan, coordinator Warrior Wolves

Anyone interested to get involve please contact Tessa: tessa.tsenya@gmail.com.

Some of the players who took part in the Futsal Fun day. The session was delivered by coaches from Rock Celtic FC as part of an initiative of Down Syndrome Ireland Louth/Meath branch.

Return of the Redemptorist Carol Service

THE Redemptorist Carol Service is back this year and ready to entertain the local community at 7pm on Sunday 18th December. It’s been three years since the Redemptorist Choir under the direction of Trevor Clarke have been able to perform to a full unrestricted church and having been rehearsing since October all involved are raring to go ahead of Sunday’s concert.

“The Redemptorist Carol Service has grown into this fantastic event and since I got involved about ten years ago it was just getting bigger and bigger every year. Unfortunately, COVID prevented us playing to a full church in 2020 and 2021 but we are back now and have been rehearsing since October ever since the St Gerard’s Novena finished really,” explains Trevor.

“Everybody is so excited and really raring to go and are so de-

lighted to be able to play in front of a full church again. I think during the last year we performed pre-covid we had over ten thousand people watching the live stream via the church webcam and that was Irish people tuning in from all over the globe. I think a lot of people associate the carol service with the beginning of the festive period and what we always try to do is to ensure the people leaving the church do so with a big smile on their face.

“There is always such a beautiful atmosphere in the church and over the last number of years we have consciously made efforts to make the evening as enjoyable as possible. A big selling point to the success of the concert was our decision to get children involved. That made it more of a family occasion and we began to see a lot more families coming out to church to enjoy the

concert. We tell child friendly readings during the mass and we feel that we have got the balance right. This year the focus will be on families and we can’t wait to entertain the people with some wonderful traditional Christmas carols.

“To all extents this is like a proper music concert but as always it will be free as we are fully aware people pay for so much at this time of year. As I said we want to ensure everybody in attendance has a magical evening and that they leave the church in a great mood and in the Christmas spirit,” stated Trevor.

The evening will begin at 7pm and the service will feature traditional carols sung by the Redemptorist Choir under the direction of Trevor Clarke and accompanied by Anne Quinn on piano, Michael Gaskin on trumpet and Edel Duffy on violin.

Charity encourages people from Louth/Meath to avail of its services

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

We invite applications for the following positions

Pro D u CTI on mA n AG er:

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

Pro C e SS e n GI neer

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

mAI n T en A n C e e le CT r ICIA n

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

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

Please forward full CV details or complete application form and send to: Francis Duffy, General manager, Gernord ltd, Ballybay rd, Carrickmacross, Co. monaghan. 042-9661060 email: francis.duffy@gerflor.com

TURN2ME, a national mental health charity, is encouraging people from Louth or Meath to avail of its free counselling sessions, free support groups and free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary over the Christmas period. The charity’s CEO, Fiona O’Malley, said that many people can struggle over Christmas with anxiety, grief, depression, loneliness, and difficult family dynamics.

“If anyone needs Turn2Me’s services, please, please, please use them – that’s what they’re there for!” Fiona O’Malley said, “Some people who sign up for our services say they were initially hesitant because they didn’t want to ‘take away’ a slot from someone who might be worse off than them. Our support groups can facilitate large numbers and they run most evenings at 6pm. It’s not a matter of taking a slot away from someone else if you sign up. Mental health services should be acces-

sible to everyone. Oftentimes when people delay seeing a therapist or put off signing up for a support group, their mental health difficulties can exacerbate so I would definitely tell people not to wait. We should all prioritise our mental health. It impacts every single element of our life. Turn2Me offers up to six free counselling sessions; unlimited, free support groups and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary which runs every day from 2pm until 8pm.”

Turn2Me runs one-to-one counselling and support groups 365 days a year, including on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Stephen’s Day. The charity stated that anyone feeling lonely, anxious, depressed, or struggling with grief can avail of their free mental health supports on their website, Turn2Me.ie. Turn2Me runs daily support groups on anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues and stress at 6pm. It is

also running ‘Christmas blues’ support groups from the 25th December until the 1st January. Anyone who wants to avail of Turn2Me’s free, professional mental health services over the Christmas period can sign up on Turn2Me.ie

Turn2me was founded in 2009 stemming from the very personal experiences of Oisin and Diarmuid Scollard, who lost their brother to suicide in 2003. In 2013, turn2me gained the support of the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention to deliver counselling online. In 2019, turn2me joined forces with ReachOut Ireland to create a space for young people to find information to support their mental health online. As of September 2021, turn2me offers adult counselling and peer support services to adults and young people aged 12 plus. It also offers group support services for teenagers, young people and adults.

Sean’s oriel observations

Sean Brannigan presents copies of his new book of poetry entitled ‘oriel observations’ to moya hodgers from Create louth. Create louth helped fund the book.

Anne Quinn (Assistant director of the redemptorist choir) with Trevor Clarke (Director of the redemptorist choir) with members of the choir.

Drive Academy team up with National Learning Network

THE owner of Dundalkbased Virtual Driving Academy Ltd Paul brady is marking a year in business.

The former Production Manager from Lios na Ree, Avenue Road decided to open his own business after his wife sadly passed away.

“We used to holiday in France together and saw virtual driving schools over there a number of years back,” said Paul.

“I was a Production Manager in Dublin for 30 years but I decided to open my own business here in the town.”

Virtual Driving Academy Limited is based in Williamson’s Mall and has just been shortlisted to the final three in the RSA safety awards in two different categories.

“The first category relates to future vision and technology and the second category relates to special education,” said Paul.

“I’ve had a lot of support from local politicians including Ruairi O Murchu, John McGa-

hon, Erin McGreehan and Ged Nash.

“They all see value in what I am trying to do. It’s been proved right around the world to be effective.”

Paul added: “Everyone is taught the same way. It’s safe and carbon neutral with everyone talking about reducing greenhouse gases.

“I have three machines here and the machine gives verbal, written and picture commands. Everyone can pick it up.

“I have students with Autism and students from the National Learning Network. I teach them theory on

site once a week as well as teaching them on the machines.”

Paul concluded: “You can go from being a total beginner in the first lesson to moving off in second gear.

“I can also do advanced training with people who want to perfect their motorway skills. The machine can replicate weather conditions such as snow and can change from dawn to dusk or night-time driving.

“The machine can also replicate every category of car from Suzuki Swift to a transit van.”

St. Louis ready to ‘Search for a Star’

The excitement is building in St. Louis secondary school as preparations are underway for the long-awaited return of the school talent show, “Search for a Star”.

All members of the student body were invited to participate in heats, which were held at lunchtime, from Monday 24th to Thursday 27th October. A great range of musical, dramatic and dance skills were in evidence as solo, group and class acts took to the stage. A panel of adjudicators attended each heat and the acts with the highest marks have made it through to the finals.

The “Search for a Star” finals will take place over two nights, in the Fairways hotel.

On Monday 19th December the successful acts from 1st, 2nd and 3rd year will compete for the big prizes. The next night (Tuesday 20th December) the crème de la crème of talent from TY, 5th and 6th year will perform.

The show starts at 7.30pm on Monday and Tuesday night. Tickets are available from St. Louis secondary school, at a cost of 12 euro each.

Come along to support the very talented students (each one of them a star in their own right!) and enjoy two great nights of pre-Christmas entertainment.

excitement is building ahead of the school talent show

The ‘Search for a Star’ finals will take place over two nights in the Fairways hotel.

Ged nash and Paul Brady with members of the national learning network.

McKenna Christmas greetings to my parents Christina & Michael and my brother Eamonn late of 20 Hyde Park, also my dear sister in law Josephine late of 21 Hyde Park. You gave me presents both big and small and I would return one for you. You were always good and kind, what beautiful memories you left behind. Josephine, I known you for 47 years, I had the pleasure of the journey with you, but when you died I had to walk the other way. But if I could I would have clasp your hand and gone with you. I see the little Robin, he comes to me most days, he seems to say you are happy in your new home up above. So rest in peace Dear Loved Ones and thanks for the love you have given us. Saint Faustina and Saint Gerard watch over you all until we meet again. —Dolores, Thomas, Eamonn, Jamie, Kenneth, Eadaoin, Fiadh and baby Aoife Claire McKenna Family, your Mum Bridie and Nolan Family.

BRaBaZOn

In loving memory of Jane and Christopher, late of O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. —From the Flynn and Brabazon families. Anniversary Mass this Sunday, 18th December, at 10.30a.m. in St. Nicholas’ Church.

NOVENA

PRaYeR TO SaInT THeReSe

O Little Therese of the Child Jesus Please pick for me a rose from the heavenly garden and send it to me as a message of love. O Little Flower of Jesus, ask God to grant the favors I now place with confidence in your hands ( mention your special prayer request here ) St. Therese, help me to always believe as you did, in God’s great love for me, so that I may imitate your “Little Way” each day. Amen. S.K.

nOvena TO THe

SacRed

HeaRT

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

nOvena TO THe

SacRed HeaRT

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

Carlingford youth’s Christmas gift to elderly

aTTEnTiOn—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

D OUBLE BED r OOM s to let in wellequipped, large home in Dundalk, may suit professionals. Private parking Tel 089 2430287.

aDVErTisE yOUr HOUsE Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

aTTE n T i O n Lan DLO r D s—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www. bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927.

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

H ED ging P L an T s for sale. Grizelenia €1.50 & €2.50 each, Laurels €1.50 each & Viburnum €2.50 each Tel 087 0689521. sELL iT THrOUgH a CLassiFiED Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

B U i LD ing sE r V i CE s—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.

Car PE n T ry & jO in E ry—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.

C arPET & OVEn CLEaning—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning. ie.

rOOF ing rEPairs & sTOVE s—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.

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

P OD iaT ry/C H ir OPOD y treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794.

Pr OFE ssi O na L Dry L ining Dropped Ceiling, Tape & Joints also all Insulation Services. Dundalk Tel 0892488819 or 089-4189199.

Pain TE r aVai L a BLE—Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

Win TE r g ar DE n Ti D y UP—keen rates, all waste removed and recycled Tel 086 8459472.

gET F i T the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm—10pm, no partner required. Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

Fr E n CH g rin D s aVai L a BLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.

H OU s

CHiMnEy & sTOVE CLEaning—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

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

aDVErTisE yOUr sErViCE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

WE C an DisTriBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

WinDOW CLEaning—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices. ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>.

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 086109-7358.

COaCH ing W i TH Es THE r—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com.

qU a L i F i ED Car PE n TE r aVai L a BLE for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

A YOUTH group in Carlingford has put a smile on the faces of many elderly people in the area by giving them hand-made Christmas oasis decorations.

One of the volunteers involved in the feel-good project, Erin, from Carlingford told the Dundalk Leader that Carlingford Youth wanted to give-back to the community.

“A few volunteers got funding from LMETb a few years ago to do a midnight soccer league,” said Erin.

“Two or three of us volunteered every Wednesday to be there for it. Early last year, the Community Centre tried to re-open again since Covid-19. There was a room in there that used to be a café so we approached Louth Leader for funding for a youth

café in that wee room.”

Erin added: “The room is done now and during the day it is used as a community room where parents and toddlers meet in the morning.

“There’s also a group of second year students that use the room on Wednesday in the evenings.

“And there is a group of mainly sixth class and first years who meet and use the room. We try and do a bit of a plan for each group.”

She concluded: “We decided that we would like to do something as a way of giving back and that’s where the idea for the Christmas decorations came from.

“We decided we would do it for the elderly in the community. We got a bit of funding from

LMETb and I bought the stuff and the kids made them.

“They all turned out beautifully. We put it on Facebook asking people to nominate a recipient. One of the ladies who received one was a 93-year-old.

“As a thank you the girls’ group are going to the Escape Rooms in Carlingford on Wednesday night.”

The Carlingford Youth project was founded just over five weeks ago and is voluntary-led. Currently, the project is being led by a group of five volunteers. The group wish to thank Louth Leader Partnership and LMETb for funding. Carlingford Youth also have a GoFundMe page which can be found at the following link. https://www.gofundme. com/f/carlingford-youth-cafe

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 workmarble, 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.

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

PrOPErT y 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.

Fi F i’s aLTE raT i O ns—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.

aLL -in- O n E!—Home and property maintenance and improvements. Painting, decorating, general household maintenance, exterior cleaning, power washing, gutters, dust free sanding, No job to big or small, quality but affordable service contact Ian 0874158238.

P L as TE ring sE r V i CE aVai L a BLE

Free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

E CLE an E r r E q U ir ED for a few hours each week, Louth Village, Dundalk, good pay rate Tel 086 8459472.

g r EE n F i ELD s M U si C TOU rs—Invite you to join for our 1 nights stays to see the cream of Irish Folk and Ballads. Price includes accommodation, bus and ticket. Contact Anthony on 085 1204994.

LOUTH COUnT y COUnCiL—We, MWAC Property Ltd, have submitted significant further information in relation to planning application reference number 22/405 @ Rathmount, Blackrock, Co. Louth. 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.

P

members of Carlingford youth who have been putting smiles on the faces of the elderly with their kind gifts.

Louth County Council announces plans to celebrate the life and legacy of St. Brigid

LOUTH County Council has announced its plans for a programme of events and initiatives to celebrate and commemorate St. brigid. 2023 will see the first national bank Holiday to celebrate St. brigid and according to leading brigidine experts, 2024 marks the 1500th anniversary of her death. With this in mind Louth County Council will begin a series of initiatives that will run between the 2023 and 2024 celebrations to create a meaningful legacy for all to enjoy and participate in.

Chief executive Joan Martin supported the announcement commenting “Our brigid1500 programme will seek to engage communities throughout the county to come together and celebrate

the life and legacy of brigid. We are planning a range of initiatives including a live concert during the year to include local musicians and choirs; our li-

braries and county museum will be hosting a series of workshops and lectures throughout the year all centred around the theme of St Brigid; we will have a

fantastic opportunity for a local artist, or artist group, through our Artist in the Community Residency which we will be doing a call out for in January. This residency will offer the artist(s) a year long residency to work with a range of local community groups and schools to create a series of textile and artistic creations that will be exhibited during the 2024 celebrations. And of course we will be looking at walking tours at the local shrine and St brigids’ well, along with a host of other initiatives that will offer opportunities for locals to immerse themselves in the history and legacy of brigid.”

The Brigid1500 program will be co-ordinated through the Eco-

nomic Development section of the council under the direction of Colette Moss along with support from the Arts Office and arts officer Moya Hodgers. There are also plans to partner with Kildare on at least 2 events in the run up to the 1500 anniversary commemorations in 2024, which gives both counties an opportunity to come together and promote the legacy of their shared Saint in a way which will hopefully resonate with citizens in both counties and give us an opportunity to create something spectacular for all.

Anyone looking for further details on the Brigid1500 plans in Louth can contact the email address brigid1500@louthcoco.ie.

John raising money for charity close to his heart

DUNDALk disability activist John Morgan has said he is having a fundraising raffle in Boyd’s Shopping Centre on Friday, December 16.

The proceeds from the raffle will be donated to a Cork-based charity close to John’s heart called Dogs for the Disabled.

John, who is from Siul na Mara, Point Road and is in a wheelchair, welcomed a new furry friend called Jamie in 2018 after he was gifted by Dogs for the Disabled.

“I have some lovely prizes 2 euro per line or three for 5 euro.

Everyone who knows me and Jamie knows how much Jamie has changed my life,” said John.

“I’m paralysed on the left side and in the mornings, Jamie gets my stockings, my brace, my second brace and my shoes.

“It gives me purpose too. I’m always out because he needs a walk and I’m a very social person too.”

John added: “Dogs for the Disabled have gifted two other Assistance dogs like Jamie in Dundalk.

“A friend’s dog was due to re-

tire just before the pandemic, and is just retired while my friend has met their new pup who is in training.”

“It takes two years to train these amazing dogs, and €20,000. The charity gets absolutely no funding from the Government, and rely totally on public donations.”

The prizes for the raffle include a variety hampers. According to John, he will be at Boyd’s Shopping Centre with Jamie all day on Friday, December 16 selling lines for the raffle.

cold weather updates available online

1—What animal takes part in Olympic “dressage” events? 2—Which one of the following countries is situated in the northern hemisphere (above the equator). Fiji, Senegal, Argentina and Zimbabwe?

3—What nationality was Christopher Columbas?

4—Anticyclone Hartmut (dubbed the Beast from the East was a storm that brought a particularly cold spell of weather to Great Britain and Ireland in February of what year?

5—Can you name the only pub/ bar on Earl Street in Dundalk? 6—Tokyo is the most populated city in the world but what is the most populated city in the USA?

7—Which Canadian artist released ‘Man! I Feel Like A Woman!’ in 1999?

9—Which British actor died whilst still filming his supporting role in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator?

10—The Soviet Union and seven other countries signed which mutual assistance treaty in 1955?

council gritting routes are published at www. louthcoco.ie and any further relevant updates will be on Louth county council’s twit-

8—What is the only natural liquid or food that has no calories?

The Stinker—Which Middle Eastern city is also the name of a type of artichoke?

—this WEE k’s ans WE rs—

6—New York City (Almost 8.5m people), 7—Shania Twain, 8—Water, 9—Oliver Reed, 10—Warsaw Pact. The Stinker: Jeruselum.

1—Horse, 2—Senegal, 3—Italian, 4—2018, 5—Commercial Club,

John with his trusty dog, Jamie.

The Louth County Council Severe Weather Assesment Team (SWAT) held a meeting on Monday morning

McArdle magic sees The Embassy overcome Mallon Property in Snooker League

WEEk 3 of the Dundalk snooker league got off to a fantastic start in The Commercial Club with the match of the night kicking things off. It was The Embassy taking on Mallon property

In the first match it pitted the two team captains together in what was sure to be a great encounter and what unfolded did not disappoint the expectant crowd.

David J McArdle playing in his first game of the season for The Embassy took advantage in scintillating fashion after Alan Thompson made a mistake early on in the frame.

McArdle came to the baize and looked composed against his long-time rival and with the break on 73 and with 34 still on the table the century was on however he missed

Thompson in action.

the last black which nobody saw coming but the 73 was enough to see Thompson extend his hand in concession.

Next up saw Mark Laverty (The Embassy) make a great come back in defeating Patsy Muckian (Mallon property)

Needing all the remaining colours Laverty came to the table knowing there was no room for error and just like McArdle earlier Laverty looked composed as he took out the finish to put The Embassy 2 in front.

The third match saw David Moran (The Embassy) take on David Doyle (Mallon Property) again this was a match that could of went either way but it was Moran who would capitalise on a loose safety on the blue and punish his rival Doyle and extend The Embassy lead to 3-0. The final Doubles match however saw Mallon property get a frame on the board when Thompson and Doyle overcame Tomas Geroc and Davey Moran in a one-sided frame to leave the final score 3-1 in favour of The Embassy.

Alan

House of Prayer Outdoor Crib

ALL are welcome to visit the CRIB in the front garden of “Bethany”, House of Prayer, 34 Point Road, Dundalk. Do bring the children. from the 13th December.

Louth Library Service

LOUTH Library Service will be hosting the talk entitled “Co. Louth Cumann na mban and the Civil War” by historian Ailbhe Rogers, in conversation with Louth County Council Historian in Residence Dr Thomas Tormey. It is to be held in Dundalk Library on Friday, December 16th at 3pm as part of the Louth County Council Decade of Centenaries Programme 2022.

Ailbhe Rogers has completed research on the Cumann na mban in Dundalk 1916-21 and has also made contributions on the subject to various history publications. This includes County Louth and the Irish Revolution, 1912-1923 (2017) edited by Dónal Hall and Martin Maguire published by the Irish Academic Press.

All are welcome to attend, with no booking required. The talk and discussion can also be watched online. A space may be saved on the ‘Crowdcast’ webpage https://www.crowdcast.io/louthlibraryservice. The talk can also be view back at a later time. The event is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media under the Decade of Centenaries 20122023 initiative. The public can contact Dundalk Library at 0429353190 for further information.

Mike Denver and guests in concert at Carrickdale Hotel

Mike Denver, one of Galway’s favourite sons is riding the crest of a wave. His audience is vast throughout Ireland, North and South and he is now making inroads in the Uk with some sellout concerts in England and Scotland over the past couple of years.

Mike’s meteoric rise in popularity culminated with him been voted “Entertainer of the Year 2016’ together with No 1 album of the Year ‘Cut Loose’ at the ACMA Awards on RTE TV. Mike to date has had 15 ‘Hit’ albums and 5 DVD’s.

With his excellent backing band Mike presents a two and a half hour high energy concert show which features all his ‘Hits’ including ‘Tommy k’, ‘Wasn’t that a Party’, ‘Galway Girl’, “Blown Away’, plus ‘hits’ from the 60’s and 70’s.

Carrickdale Hotel, Saturday, January 7th. Tickets at Hotel Reception and Ticketmaster.ie. The Perfect Christmas Gift

Special Guests with Mike are Philomena Begley, Brendan Shine, Gavin Gribbin and kevin kearney.

Gift of a Lift’ Christmas Campaign

With the festive party season now underway, those of us who are preparing to go out celebrating in Co Louth are being asked to think ahead to ensure everyone gets home safely.

Adrian O'Sullivan, Road Safety Officer with Louth County Council has the following timely advice: “The Christmas party season is getting into full swing and it's a time when many of us will be out enjoying the festivities. To encourage people to get home safely, Louth County Council have launched their ‘Gift

A Lift’ road safety Christmas card campaign. The idea is that you commit to staying sober to give a family member or friend one lift home or organise a taxi for them over the festive season using the specially designed ‘Here’s something that will give you a little lift this Christmas’ card”.

Adrian added “The ‘Gift of a lift’ card is a novel way of getting across a serious message as road users need to be extra careful at this time of year when roads are at their busiest and conditions can be dangerous. It's not worth taking a chance on driving if you have consumed any alcohol or drugs. Don’t let your actions spoil a good night out and bring tragedy to your family this Christmas.”