15-05-2024

ARD EASMUINN ROAD, DUNDALK. PHONE 042 935 7296. dunnesmonumental@gmail.com.

Jude’s name will live on forever in school

By Paul Byrne

THE mother of a young man who sadly passed away in October of 2022 from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (a muscle wasting disease) has expressed her gratitude to Coláiste Rís following the official opening of Jude’s room in the Dundalk secondary school.

Lynn McGuinness from Blackrock attended a special ceremony on Friday along with her parents Vincent and Kathleen, Jude’s good friend James, his Mum Alison, Jude’s cousins Megan and Eva and staff past and present to the official opening of Jude’s Room. Recently retired principal, Noeleen Dowling as well as her predecessor Padraig Hamill also attended the official opening of Jude’s room.

In 2012 Colaiste Ris was exten-

sively upgraded by Dept of Education in assosciation with HSE OT to facilitate full electric wheelchair access for Jude. A ground floor fully accessible bathroom facility including electric ceiling hoist, an elevator lift on the ground floor of main building to gain access to the second floor, fully automated reception entrance doors and wheelchair access ramps were all installed and internal doors widened throughout.

The Haughey Building, adjacent to the main school was fitted with a specially designed PC Room on it’s ground floor for Jude, so he could gain access electronically to the Computer room situ on the second floor, and also as a place where Jude could spend time to study or to relax and was also used by students requiring extra resource classes.

Continued on Page 2

Lynn McGuinness, mother of Jude, officially opens what will now be known as ‘Jude’s Room’ in her son’s old secondary school, Coláiste Rís.

‘Jude’s Room’ officially opened in Coláiste Rís

Continued

From Page 1

This room has now being redesigned as a relaxation/chill out room, a place where students can go who may feel a little overwhelmed or just need a little time out, for whatever reason. It was always fondly known as Jude’s room but has now being officially named so

by Colaiste Ris. Jude, from Blackrock, attended Coláiste Rís where he always portrayed a very positive attitude, a powerful inner strength and remarkable resilience always refusing to let his disease define him. His mother Lynn called him an inspiration and expressed her happiness that her beloved

son’s name will live on in the school.

“Jude had a medical condition of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy a physical muscle wasting disease, diagnosed at a very young age.

He was brave, courageous and dignified in dealing with the many obstacles and challenges DMD inflicted on his daily life, including losing his ability to walk and he gradually became fully dependant on using an electric wheelchair for his independence,” explained Lynn.

“He had a great attitude and never let his conditon define him. He was a gentle soul and

very sincere and he had a great sense of humour. He was loved by everybody in Coláiste Rís and I was delighted to see his old principal and vice principal in attendance on Friday.

“I’m proud that Jude has left a lasting legacy in all three schools he attended,” noted Lynn. He attended Scoil Mhuire na nGael, Coláiste Rís and O’Fiach College of Further Education and all three buildings have been upgraded to become fully accessible for future needs of all students and staff. When he was in Coláiste Rís he used to love to get away to what is now called Jude’s Room

to take a breather and relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the school corridors.

“I think it’s very appropriate that the room will now be used as a chill out room for kids who may want to just find a quiet space if they are feeling overwhelmed. This room has always been known fondly as Jude’s Room and will live on in his memory in the school from her on in,” added Lynn.

Jude achieved his Leaving certificate in June 2018 and went on to study and proudly achieve his Gaming and Multimedia certificate in O’Fiaich college.

Tributes paid to highly respected Pat Muckian

TRIBUTES have been paid to Patricia ‘Pat’ Muckian who passed away on Monday evening in Beaumont hospital from head injuries she suffered after an alleged hatchet attack whilst she was at a tea party to celebrate her sister-in-law’s 75th birthday.

Patricia ‘Pat’ Muckian suffered severe head trauma, while her sisterin-law Mairead and niece Maria were also injured.

The three women were enjoying tea and cake to celebrate Mairead Muckian’s 75th birthday in the kitchen of her home in the Glenwood estate in Dundalk on the afternoon of May 3 when the attack occurred.

Nicholas Muckian (47) of Glenwood, Dundalk has appeared before Dundalk District Court in relation to the incident. He is charged with three counts of assault causing harm at the same location.

Deputy Ruairí Ó

Murchú paid tribute to Pat Muckian, who died in hospital on Monday evening.

The Sinn Féin TD said his heart ‘goes out to the family and the wider community’, following Ms Muckian’s death. He said: ‘Pat would have been known from her time in Dundalk

Credit Union where she held every level of position and was involved in the wider community work that has become synonymous with the credit union.

‘She comes from a very big and well respected family and her seven sisters are still alive. She lost one sister and three brothers and while she was not the eldest of the family, she was viewed as the matriarch of the clan.

‘She had over 20 nieces and nephews and was very supportive of them. The family and the wider community are devastated by her death. It is a brutal tragedy for all her family and friends.

‘This has been a very difficult time for the family since the incident on May 3. The wider community of Dundalk, her family and friends, will be incredibly supportive in the coming days and weeks, as Pat herself would have been.

‘And as much as Pat was recognised for her work at the credit union, I also know she was involved in many acts of charity over the years for which she never took the limelight and just did things because they were the right thing to do.

‘My heart goes out to the wider family at this extremely difficult time’.

Heroic Louth fall just short in Croker

LOUTH may have failed to stop Dublin winning a fourteenth successive Leinster Football Championship but they made the reigning All Ireland Champions work very hard for victory with the side from the capital eventually winning on a 1-19 to 2-12 scoreline. The performance from Ger Brennan’s energetic side was a huge improvement on twelve months earlier when they were comprehensively beaten by 5-21 to 0-15 points.

Louth talisman Sam Mulroy got Louth off to just the start they hoped for with a well struck free to give the Louth contingent in Croke Park

something to cheer early on. A tight first half saw the sides exchange points before Mulroy sent another free sailing over the bar to give the underdogs a 0-7 to 0-6 halftime lead. As expected Dublin upped the ante in the early stages of the second half and it looked like they would pull away from Louth when they

went two points clear following scores from Con O’Callaghan, Paul Mannion and Cormac Costello. However, this Louth team are made of stern stuff and rather than roll over the men from the Wee County had their fans roaring when St Mary’s Ciaran Keenan burst through before

showing great composure in rounding Stephen Cluxton and slotting into the empty goal. For a brief moment Louth supporters must have thought that they might just pull off the impossible and beat this Dublin juggernaut but the champions are the best team in the country for a reason and they stayed calm, scoring two points in quick succession before capitalizing on a rare mistake from the otherwise excellent Niall McDonnell in the Louth goal whose misplaced pass was gobbled up by Jack McCaffrey who in turn put Con O’Callaghan through to

score the Dubs first goal of the game.

Dublin went seven points ahead thanks to scores from O’Callaghan, Costello and Paddy Small but Louth’s never say die attitude was on display again at the death when St Mochtas man, Craig Lennon was on hand to palm the ball into the back of Cluxton’s net to score Louth’s second goal of the afternoon. An excellent performance from Ger Brennan’s side who will go into the group stages high on confidence. Louth face Meath in their first game on Saturday week in a tie which will be played in Inniskeen.

Jude with the then Princpal Padraig Hamill and the then Vice Principal Noilin Dowling in June 2018 proudly presented with the Students Endeavour Award.

Cousins Muireann, Lucy, Anna and Caoimhe at red & white day at the Friary school on Friday.

The late Patricia ‘Pat’ Muckian.

Lynette’s sky dive to raise money for charity

By Tamara O’Connell

A 71-YEAR-OLD Louth woman who volunteers

for a Let’s Talk Mental Health North East shop in Dundalk is planning to do a skydive to raise

money for the charity.

Lynette McEnaney has been married for 49 years and is a mother

The board if Redeemer FRC invites applications from suitable qualified persons for the following Position

COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER

Send CV and Cover letter/Personal Statement outlining your suitability for the post and return to: redeemerchairperson@gmail.com or by post to:

Chairperson, Redeemer FRC, Coxes Demense, Dundalk, Co Louth A91PTT2 by close of business Thursday 30th May 2024. For a full job description contact: redeemerchairperson@gmail.com Redeemer FRC is an equal opportunities employer. Canvassing will disqualify. Shortlisting will apply and a panel may be formed from which future similar posts will be filled

to three grown-up children and is also a grandmother.

“I’m doing the skydive because I have a bucket list including seeing the pyramids in Egypt and the Eiffel Tower in Paris,” said Lynette.

“I also wanted to see Cos in Greece and I’ve ticked that off my list. I wanted to go there because I like the film ‘Shirley Valentine’.

“I joined Rory’s Travel Club and I’ve been to 20 places so far. I’ve always been involved in charity.”

She said: “I did front of house in the Droichead Arts Centre for a

number of years and I worked in a Women’s Refuge.

and have a chat and decide a course of action.”

Lynette added: “We also have plenty of trained counsellors. I just sit and engage in conversation.

“We might chat about things straight away or it might take five chats over five cups of tea. Patience is a virtue.

page to raise money for Let’s Talk Mental Health North East.

“We raised €740 in the space of five days. People can donate that way and I will have sponsorship cards.”

The skydive is due to take place on July 27 in Offaly. Lynette is currently training regularly at the gym in Aura with a personal trainer.

“I decided to do the skydive because there is no point in wasting an opportunity. We have a wee Let’s Talk Mental Health North East shop on Clanbrassil Street in Dundalk.

“We are hoping to get another similar shop set up in Drogheda. The one in Dundalk opened in 2019.”

“I’m there if someone wants to have a chat. I do talk therapy. We sit

She added: “I had to get a letter from my doctor to do the skydive as I’m over 65-years-old.

“My grand-daughter also set up a GoFundMe

Upcoming Library Events

MARIE Keating Foundation

Mobile Information Unit: The Marie Keating Foundation will be bringing its mobile unit to Dundalk Library from 10:00am until 4:00pm on Friday 24th May. Anyone is welcome to come to the unit on the day and speak with one of the specialists’ trained nurses. The aim of

the Marie Keating Foundation is to bring life-saving messages on cancer prevention and early detection to as many people as possible. Nurses will be providing information on the day in relation to cancer prevention and what steps you can take to help reduce your risk. We will also have information on the most common

cancers in Ireland and signs and symptoms to look out for.

This is a free service, and staff are happy to speak to individuals or small groups and answer questions they may have. Please note there is no cancer screening provided.

Alzheimer Café: Join us in Dundalk Library on Tuesday 21st May at 11:00am-12:30pm

“I was in the pub last night drinking water,” she laughed. “I go to the gym three to four times per week,” she said.

“It’s good for the soul and your physical and mental health.”

for a relaxing morning of advice, music, tea and a chat! The Café is a warm and welcoming place for people to come and meet others also living with Dementia / Alzheimer’s. Carers, family and friends are all welcome, there is no booking required. For further information, please contact Dundalk Library on 042-9353190.

Lynette McEnaney.

Still time to take the Cross Cooley Challenge

THE Cross Cooley Challenge, a charity event in aid of the North Louth Hospice and the Maria Goretti Respite Centre at Lordship, is celebrating its 12th year in a row this year. On Saturday, May 18th, 2024, participants will take a trip across the mountain, enjoying some of the nicest scenery in the country. Last year, 400 walkers had a very enjoyable time.

Registering for the walk is a breeze. You can start at 9 am at the Greenore Railway Sa-

loon, Quay St., Dundalk, just off the bypass. If that’s not convenient for you, don’t worry. You can also register from 9:30 am at the entrance to the mountain and forest at the rear of the Lumpers Pub, Ballymakellett, Ravensdale, Co Louth.

There will be a free bus service from the Greenore Railway saloon to the start of the walk and from Carlingford back to The Lumpers and the Greenore bar afterward. The Cross Cooley Challenge

team wishes you well with your training and sponsorship and looks forward to seeing you for a fun day out on the mountain on Saturday, May 18th. A couple of little surprises will cheer you up along the way.

The Cross Cooley Challenge team wants to thank you for helping collect much-needed funds for these two great charities. Visit the Cross Cooley Challenge Facebook page to stay up to date with all the information on the walk.

Sheridan encourages over 66s to apply for free NI travel pass

LOCAL Councillor John Sheridan has encouraged pensioners to apply now for their cross border travel pass due to a delay in processing the card.

“I have been contacted by some constituents over 66 who want to use their free travel across the island this summer and are concerned about delays in processing the card. The southern travel pass currently covers trips from Louth into the North, but pensioners need a separate card for subsequent journeys around the North.”

“I understand there is currently a processing time of around six weeks for the card, so I would be encouraging pensioners to get the paper form and get applying now if they wish to travel North over the summer.”

“Thankfully recent good weather has meant people are planning summer day trips. The current free travel card allows those over 66 to get to Newry or Belfast currently, but if they wish

to get bus or rail connections beyond Newry or Belfast there’s a special card required.”

“The Department of Social Protection process applications for the card and anyone interested must apply using a paper form only. There is no facility at present for online applications”

“Paper forms can be obtained from myself or the Free Travel section of the Department of Social Protection in Sligo.”

“With the opening of the new Belfast Grand Central Station this year, there will be many more options for people planning to head North on day trips including higher frequency on the Dublin Belfast railway line, so I think it would be good if people apply now ahead of the summer.”

Cllr. John Sheridan.

The ever popular Cross Cooley Challenge takes place this weekend. with all proceeds raised going to charity.

‘A significant Day for North Louth and South Down’—Cllr Watters

SINN Féin Councillor Antóin Watters has described the awarding of the contract for the Narrow Water Bridge Project as “a significant day for the communities of North Louth and South Down.” Works are due to begin within weeks

Describing this as “a significant further step in the process”, Cllr Watters said “since becoming a Councillor in 2016 this is a Project that has seen many stops and starts and I am proud to have played my part along with former Councillor Jim Loughran, Arthur Morgan and Gerry Adams to get it to this point.

“This Project will be transformative for the North Louth and South Down areas in terms of tourism, jobs and an all-round stronger local and all-Ireland econo-

An artists impression of what the

my. At times, it was considered by other Parties as ‘unrealistic’ and they sought to have it shelved but I managed to keep it as a priority for Louth County Council, raising it at every opportunity. I also raised it at the Cross Border Strategic Alliance Committee with Newry, Mourne and Down Council.”

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú welcomed the news saying it was “an absolutely necessary

cross border project that has been supported by Sinn Fein since its inception.”

He added, “we are, of course, supportive of the progress being made on the Narrow Water Bridge, but the Project needs to be completed and delivered without any hiccups.”

The Sinn Féin TD said it was ‘not helpful’ that news of the awarding of the contract was made public on a construction

X (formerly Twitter) account. He said “we need to make sure that everything is done correctly to ensure that the bridge is delivered on time and on budget.”

Cllr Watters has been speaking with senior officials in Louth County Council over the past few weeks to clarify the exact tender details and contract amount. These details are expected to be announced shortly.

Creative Spark Downtown Hub 2 Year Anniversary

CREATIVE Spark Downtown Hub will celebrate its two-year anniversary on Wednesday 22nd May. Now seen as a staple of Clanbrassil Street, Creative Spark’s second location offers desk space for remote workers, start-ups, and freelancers, as well as meeting room and event space, a podcast studio, regular workshops, and community events. With 32 dedicated members and over

1,000 hot desks booked over the last two years, the positive impact of the hub on Clanbrassil street is clear to see for other local businesses.

To celebrate the Downtown Hub and align with European Coworking Day, free hot desks will be available to workers on 22nd May as well as a host of other events, from mindfulness to an after work social, there is something for everyone on the day.

To find out more and book your free hot desk on 22nd May please visit www.creativespark.ie/ events. Limited spaces available.

Weeklong celebration of volunteering

A WEEKLONG celebration of diversity in volunteering was announced today as National Volunteering Week 2024 was launched. National Volunteering Week (20th – 26th May) takes place during the third week of May every year. This year’s theme is Uniquely Us, with a specific focus on exploring the diversity of volunteers who make Ireland what it is.

The week will see events take place across the country from volunteering information sessions to coffee mornings to yoga classes for volunteers[AW1], along with the launch of cross

border research and a toolkit on inclusion in volunteering.

Louth Volunteer Centre will be hosting an open morning in their Dundalk Office on Thursday 23rd of May from 10 Am to 12 PM. So why not drop in and see how you can get involved in volunteering this National Volunteer Week.

Olivia Conlon Louth Volunteer Centre Manager commented, “We truly believe that celebrating, not just accommodating, the uniqueness of our volunteers makes our communities stronger and more connected. No matter your age, race, abilities, or status, we want to celebrate your place

in the community and the volunteering that you, uniquely, do.

National Volunteering Week is the perfect opportunity to celebrate all things volunteeringwhether you are a volunteer, are thinking about volunteering or simply want to appreciate the incredible impact volunteers have on our lives.”

This National Volunteering Week we will be sharing personal volunteer stories and encouraging people across the country to think about the incredible impact that volunteers have on our communities.

Narrow Water Bridge will look like.

The Wait is over!

FOR their brand new show, An Táin Arts Centre’s theatre Community Company in residenceEncore Productions, bring you ‘The Beckett List’.

Samuel Beckett changed the world of theatre with his ground breaking plays, winning a Nobel Prize for his efforts. But while his plays have been said to have neither plot nor action, his life story reads like a novel.

From grey Dublin in the 1900’s to colourful times with the great writers and artists in Paris during the 1920’s Beckett’s outlook and art were transformed. As the victim of a near fatal stabbing and as an active member of the French resistance against the Nazis in world war two he knew his hardshipsbut there was friendship along the way. He got to know fellow Irish writer James Joyce and his huge encyclopaedic books, but it was the stripped back sculptures of Alberto Giacometti that were to provide a way forward for the struggling writer.

‘The Beckett list’ vividly tells the life story of Samuel Beckett and his art with striking stage images, passionate acting and atmospheric music and film. More than this the play uses iconic characters from works such as ‘Endgame’, ‘Happy Days’ and his breakthrough ‘Waiting for Godot’ to help tell the story and introduce audiences to some of Beckett’s great works.

Jamie Linden will play Samuel Beckett, with

Mary Francis McAteer and David Coyle as his parents. Alex Tamuyeye plays Beckett’s teacher. Dolores McKeever and Nicki Cormican team up as master and servant Hamm and Clov, while Oliver Hanratty is the banana eating Krapp. Anita Guest is Winnie –buried in sand but with her handbag and hair brush at the ready. Melissa |Fox and Sandra Shields play Peggy and Suzanne – two of the loves in Samuel Beckett’s life. Paddy Durnin is the chess playing surrealist Marcel Duschamp while Rodger Zyro and Olivia McGinnity will play existentialist superstars Jean Paul Sartre and Simone De Bovoir. Martin Hanley, Christopher McKevitt, Brendan O’Shea have a busy time of it swapping paintbrushes for pistols as modern artists and as soldiers. Finally, stepping out from the pages of waiting for Godot we have Rachel Tinniswood

and Grainne O’Hanlon as Estragon and Vladimir and Aoife Lawless and Moninna McCarthy as Lucky and Pozzo.

The actor’s performances are enriched by films created by Dara McCluskey featuring the voice talents of Therese Baxter and Jason Kelly who also acts as technical assistant on the production. The show is directed By Sandy Sneddon and all the actors are drawn from RehabCare’s services in Dundalk. Encore productions was the recipient of an Irish Healthcare Centre Award last year recognising their innovations in delivering a social care service with a serious theatrical focus within a professional arts setting.

The group are delighted to be touring again after a long hiatus imposed by the Covid pandemic and its aftermath. With shows lined up in the Mermaid centre in

Reeling in the Years Dundalk 1964

THE Old Dundalk Society (ODS) commences its diamond anniversary celebrations with a lecture entitled ‘Reeling in the Years, Dundalk 1964’. The lecture will take place in the Louth County Museum Jocelyn Street Dundalk on Thursday 16th May commencing at 8pm sharp. The ODS is celebrating 60 years bringing local history lectures and events to the people of Dundalk. In recent years the Society has developed a schools programme with Transition Year students from a number of local schools, in order develop their interest and knowledge of local history. Following on from their successful lecture on the Great Northern Railway (GNR) in 2023, Colaiste Chu Chulainn was re-invited to present a lecture to launch the diamond celebrations.

A team of ten students will take to the podium and have adopted the successful ‘Reeling in the Years’ formula to shine a light on Dundalk in 1964. The students have compiled over 80 slides featuring well known locations and events, such as Superquinn, the Magnet, the Adelphi, the Maytime Festival, the Footwear Industry, P J Carrolls, Blackrock, and Gyles Quay, which will explore the social history of Dundalk. It will be an enjoyable trip down memory lane for young and old. The students are looking forward to a large attendance of Old Dundalk Society members and guests. Following the lecture there will be a chance to share memories during the question and answer session. After which light refreshments will be served. Voluntary contribution at the door.

David Coyle, Jamie Linden, Mary Francis McAteer and Oliver Hanratty.

Local Futsal player welcomes USA Down Syndrome Futsal squad to Ireland as part

SPORT has been known to build bridges across nations, transcend cultures and bring people together. Great excitement is building in the local Down Syndrome sports community, as they look forward welcoming the USA Futsal team to the Emerald Isle.

Building on this, the Ireland and USA Down Syndrome Futsal Tour 2024 is due to kick off next week. County Meath will be the host of the first international tour of its kind.

This tour will seek to aid both teams in preparation for 2025 SUDS Futsal Championship for players with Down syndrome.

Ireland’s Down Syndrome Futsal team competed in the European Championships in Italy last September. The squad had a jam-packed week, playing 5 games in 4 days. Turkey, Italy and Portugal the more seasoned teams had to stand their ground against the newcomers.

Dundalk player Jamie

of Irish national squad

Jamie Linden (back row, second from left) with his Irish teammates.

Linden, a defender nicknamed “the Hulk” will represent the town at the training camp. Weeks after joining Dundalk FC’s Down syndrome team.

Jamie is well known in town and has been playing in various teams in Dundalk over the years.

Futsal is a form of fiveaside indoor football played with a smaller, heavier ball than football and is an ideal sport for Ireland as it is played from October to March.

This will be the first international participation for the USA squad, an affiliate of US Soccer, since they came together

early 2023.

The USA’s mixed gender squad consists of 8 players and 8 Irish squad players substituted by 2 upcoming development players will train at Gormanston Park for the week of 20th -24th May.

Mark Trevor, Vice President of Down Syndrome Sports of America commented: “We are absolutely honoured and thrilled to be invited by Ireland’s Down Syndrome Futsal team to train and compete with them. Our players and coaches are looking forward to what will be a tremendous experience.”

Captain of the Irish team, Josh Hennessy, is looking forward to train with the USA and making new friends with both players and coaches.

“A week like this, offers a lifetime of experiences to our players. Making new friends, improve their football skills and work towards barrier free sport for players with disabilities.” said DSI Louth Meath branch Sport coordinator Tessa van Heerden.

12 Crowe Street, Dundalk

Tel 042 933 6811 Fax 042 933 3372 Web www.kmr.ie

‘Try a Bike Day’ in St Helena’s Park

Last year’s

AS part of Bike Week 2024 Louth Disability Cycling Club are holding a ‘Try a Bike Day’ for special needs kids on Sunday, May 19th at 10:30am in St. Helena’s Park in Dundalk.

Kids of all abilities and ages, along with their parents, are invited for a day of fun on their range of state-of-the-art specialised special needs trikes, trishaws, and bikes.

Their dedicated volunteers will be on hand to provide spins and support throughout the day.

Everyone is welcome and refreshments will be served on the day.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to experience the joy of cycling!

The club is also calling for volunteer bike pilots to help as they take their bikes throughout the county.

A spokesperson for the club said: You don’t have to know how to operate our bikes, if you would like to pilot our range of bikes we will show you how to operate them safely.

“Get in touch with us on: 087 770 0037 or message us on our Facebook page: Louth Disability Cycling Club.”

1—Louth have lost three Leinster finals since 2010. Apart from Dublin, what other team beat Louth in the final?

2—What Italian term in cooking means ‘soft but firm’?

3—Zebedee, Dougal and Mr Grimsdale were all popular characters in which popular BBC kids tv programme that ran from 1965-1977?

4—Aurora australis is better known by what name?

5—What did Williamsons Hotel change it’s name to in 1886?

6—A sultana is a dried form of what?

7—US manufacturer ‘Weber’ are famous for producing what cooking equipment?

8—What was the old name for the confectionary product ‘Starburst’?

9—Which TV hotel manager declared the Waldorf salad was off due to the lack of Waldorfs? 10— According to the bible, Adam and Eve had three sons. Can you name them?

Stinker—What began on August 15 1969 on a farm owned by Max Yasgur?

1—Meath in 2010, 2—Al Dente, 3—The Magic Roundabout, 4—Southern Lights (Aurora Borealis is known as the Northern Lights), 5—Queens Hotel, 6— Grape, 7—Barbeques and BBQ accessories, 8—Opal Fruits, 9— Basil Fawlty. 10—Cane, Abel and Seth. Stinker: Woodstock.

Accountants

Due to continued expansion we are seeking candidates for the following roles in our offices in Crowe Street, Dundalk.

Qualified/Part Qualified Accountants Audit Seniors

If you want to join our team please forward your CV and cover letter to info@kmr.ie

‘Try a Bike Day’ was a big success with large numbers turning out for the event. This Saturday sees the popular event return in St Helena’s Park at 10:30am.

Gillian helps raise awareness of coeliac disease

By Tamara O’Connell

A MOTHER from Knockbridge has spoken about her experience of Coeliac Disease after her two children were diagnosed with it.

Gillian Rooney told the Dundalk Leader that her two young children have been confirmed as having Coeliac Disease and she may also have the condition.

“My son Conaill, who is 13-yearsold now, is also a Type 1 Diabetic. He was diagnosed when he was eight,” she said.

“Then at 10 and a half he was confirmed Coeliac. It’s a huge transition; it’s our new norm. We have to measure and calculate everything he eats because of the diabetes.

“We were all tested for Coeliac Disease after his diagnosis. My daughter, Lauren, is ten now and wasn’t symptomatic, but she was diagnosed 18 months ago.”

Gillian added: “I was tested myself for Coeliac but the test came back negative. I went privately to see if anything else was going on.

“I was told I need to go on a gluten-free diet so I’ve been doing that for the past few months. It’s our new normal as I said.

“What made it easier is that I used to always cook from scratch at home. It would be harder if you relied on processed foods and eating out.”

“We put a plan in place. There is a massive difference already and the kids are very diligent about checking ingredients.

“They are very good. Halloween and Easter can be more of a challenge and parties too, of course.”

Gillian concluded: “We went to Florida for a family holiday for example and it proved to be extremely difficult as they did not understand coeliac disease so very few restaurants could accommodate us.

“I’d like to encourage more people to get the test. Also, the Coeliac Society of Ireland has a phoneline for support and useful tips such as you will need separate chopping boards. and you will need seperate Utensils/toasters/butter dishes etc to ensure there is no cross contamination.”

For more information, please visit www.coeliac.ie.

Northern Lights spark excitement

FAMILY NOTICES

BROWNE

Birthday Remembrance of our dear Mother, Freda, whose 77th birthday occurs on the 17th May, 2024.

Birthday wishes sent to Heaven

From your family below

We miss and love you dearly

And we wanted you to know. Your birthday’s not forgotten Your memory lives on

We celebrate the life you had Even though you’ve gone.

If we were given just one wish

One that would come true

We’d wish you back beside us

To spend this day with you. We will always love and miss you

And we often shed a tear

Especially on your birthday Year after year.

—Happy heavenly 77th birthday Mammy, lots of love from Francis, Alan, Milanda, Sinead, Niamh, grandchildren and Great grandchildren, forever in our hearts. XXXXX.

CALVIN CURLEY GRAY

13th Birthday Remembrance

Birthday remembrance of Calvin Curley Gray, whose 13th birthday is on 20th May. Our Special Son I wish you were here today

Even for just a little while So I could say Happy Birthday ‘Son’

And see your beautiful smile. The only gifts today will be The gifts you left behind; The laughter, joy and happiness… Precious memories…the best kind.

Today I’ll do my very best

To try and find a happy place… Struggling to hide my heavy heart

And the tears on my face. I’ll sit quietly and look at your picture

Thinking of you with love; Hoping you’re doing ok In Heaven up above. May the angels hold you close and Sing you a happy song… And I’ll be sending wishes to you

Today and all year long.

—Lots of Love Mam and Dad.

I miss you always Brother

My heart has been left broken

Since the day you had to go.

And the memories I treasure dearly

Are in the tears that still flow.

You’re in my thoughts everyday

And that’s how it will always be

For you may be up in Heaven now,

But you’ll always be with me.

If only I could have the chance

To see your face once more

Or to hear your voice one final time

Just like it was before.

The day that Heaven calls for me

Will be a relief from all this pain.

I’ll run to you with open arms

And we will meet again.

—Lots of Love from Sophie.

Happy Birthday Brother

There is no better friend than a brother and there is no better brother than you

I’m so thankful to have you for a brother

Never forget that I love you

Always and forever.

—Lots of love from Evan and Baby Cruz.

Happy 13th Birthday in Heaven Calvin on May 20th

You left in such a hurry

And we did not get to say goodbye

I miss you so much and I know my heart will never heal from your loss

Your departure was such a shook to me

That I don’t remember most of your funeral

My memories fade in and out I know that my mind was trying to

Protect my heart from being crushed

Even further your spirit is with me still

And will be all the time until we meet again.

—Love Nanny Jella – my wee

Denis The menace and Blue Eyed Boy. XXX.

Happy 13th Birthday Calvin

We are sending a dove to heaven

with a parcel on its wings. Be careful when you open it, its full of beautiful things.

Inside are a million kisses, wrapped in a million hugs, to say how much I miss you and to send you all our love

We hold you close within our hearts

And there you will remain

To walk with us throughout our lives

Until we see you again.

—Love Aunty Maria, Aaron, Ali, Hannah, Bryson and Harlow. Wishing you a Happy Heavenly 13th Birthday Calvin

A date that is filled with sadness, Returns to us today.

To mark the day you left us in

Such a sudden way.

In thoughts we see you just the same,

In love and pride we speak your name.

—Love always Aunty Tina and Cousin Michael.

Calvin To my beautiful nephew Calvin Happy 13th birthday up in heaven

We love you and miss you dearly

Just to let you know, you’re never forgotten.

—From aunty Victoria, cousins Amelia, Colleen and Caitlin.

Calvin

To a special grandson Calvin on your 13th birthday

Loving you is easy, I do it everyday

It’s the heartbreak of losing you that never goes away

Of all the special gifts of life,

However great or small, to have you as my grandson, was the greatest gift of all

With an aching heart, I whisper low, I miss you grandson and love you so

To keep on going, since you’re gone is the hardest thing I’ve ever done.

—Happy birthday Calvin. Lots of love, Nanny Jean and Uncle Paul.

Calvin (Nephew)

I thought of you today, but that is nothing new I thought about you yesterday and will tomorrow too I think of you in silence and make no outward show

For what it meant to lose you, only those who love you know

Remembering you is easy, I do it every day

Its just the heartache of losing you

That will never go away.

—Love from Aunty Lisa and kids.

Calvin (Godson)

To my very special Godson

I’m sending you a dove in heaven with a big present on its wings

Be careful when you open it, Its full of beautiful things

Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs

—Love Aunty Sandra, Tara and Jamie.

Calvin

Our star in heaven

Happy heavenly 13th birthday to my beautiful nephew Calvin Wishing you were here today for even just a while

So I could say happy birthday and see your loving smile. May angels hold you closely and sing you a happy song and I’ll be sending wishes today and all year long

We love and miss you loads

—Aunty Stephanie and cousins Lucas, Sienna, Leon and Matilda.

Happy Birthday Our Calzino

A teenager you have become today

We know you’re up in Heaven

Where you run around and play

Someday we will all be together

Where once more we will see your smile.

Happy birthday dearest Calvin

For as we think of you

We smile Y.N.W.A.

—Love Aunty Denise, John and John Junior.

Happy 13th Birthday Calvin Today is your birthday In heaven above

My blessings I send On the wings of a dove

Not just for today

But every day hereof We think of you always With all our love.

—Always loved, forever missed Uncle Jam, Audrey, Lee and Jake.

Cousin

To Calvin, on your special day, In Heaven’s arms you’ve found your way.

Though we’re apart, you’re not alone,

Your light in our hearts forever shown.

Though tears may fall and hearts may ache

Your spirits strength no bond can break

So you celebrate above, know you are surrounded by endless love,

Happy 13th, dear Clavin, in the skies so blue, forever remembered, forever true.

—Love, your cousin Kellie and James.

Happy birthday to our beautiful angel Calvin

A picture of you I carry in my heart I close my eyes to see it when the world gets dark.

A memory of you I carry in my soul I wrap it close around me when the nights get cold. If you ask how I am, I’d say just fine

But the truth is

If you could read my mind Not a day goes by

That I don’t think of you.

—From Claire and Demileigh.

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). N & M.S.

NOVENA

RESIDENTS in Louth and all across he country enjoyed a rare sighting of the Northern Lights on Friday evening as social media glowed red, green and purple as people shared magical photos of the celestial light show which can usually only be seen clearly in Iceland, Greenland and northern Scandinavia.

The aurora borealis arrived to our skies following the biggest solar storm in twenty years. Aurora displays occur when chargd particles collide with gasses in the Earth’s atmosphere around the magnetic poles. PIC CREDIT: Fra Luchessi.

Gillian Rooney with her daughter Lauren.

Aurora Borealis as seen on The Navvy Bank, captured by local photographer, Fra Luchessi.

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.

BRAND NEW ‘street legal’ Electric Bike, small in size, €400 also Brand new Ladies Bicycle with extra-large side bags & front basket, bargain at €150 (receipts available). Tel 089 2497902.

APARTMENT TO RENT in Dundalk, very good location. Telephone 087 2788573.

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

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK—

Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.

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

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

ANAM CARA HEALING—Holistic company providing Psychic Tarot Reading, Reiki, Crystal Therapy and Aromatherapy. Phone for appointments 0864591226 or visit www.anamcarahealing.ie”.

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

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

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.

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.

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

GARDEN MAINTENANCE—Hedge cutting, Lawn cutting, Powerwashing, fencing. Slabs laid. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

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 9.305.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

POWER WASHING/Garden Services - all garden tidy ups, lawns, hedges, pathways, Gutters, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048.

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. Please note, we do not repair Clocks.

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

CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVICES— Over 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Available services: Doors, Frames, Floors, Skirting, Architraves, Walls, Built in Units, Fencing/Gates, Plaster boarding and Roofing Services. Complete renovations carried out. Contact Mark 086 0895508.

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

ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE services carried out. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Gerry your local man 087 6461556 or 042 9327241 after 6pm. PAINTING SERVICES AVAILABLE—interior and exterior. Also available for Power washing, Garage, House and Garden clearance. Furniture removals. Tel Brian 087 7558506.

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

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

LAWNS CUT—Hedges cut and gutters cleaned Tel Tom 087 2296441.

CARPENTER—Fully qualified available for all aspects of carpentry. Tv units, paneling, doors or floors call James on 0871833091.

LOCAL PAINTERS & DECORATORS AVAILABLE All types of painting & decorating done to the highest of standards, no job to big or to small, we also do shops/offices and can work out of hours to avoid any disruption or inconvenience to the day to day running of your business,call 0851588667, or get us on Facebook @ Budget painters Decorators.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE— Promotes overall health & wellness, cleanses the body, builds immune system, eases lymphedema & oedema, improves circulation, eases stiff joints, fibromyalgia, bloating and good for allergies. Contact Annamarie on 0867300231.

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.

FAITH & SPIRITUAL HEALING available for general wellbeing, skin conditions, asthma, chest problems and sinuses. Further information call Faith on 087 7188450.

MEADOW VIEW LANDSCAPING—Trees, Hedging & Grass Cut. Power Washing and General Garden Maintenance. Serving the people in Dundalk for 26 years. Contact Ken 087 9548114.

STOP SMOKING—Also quit gambling, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, weight loss and vaping. Facebook—denismcloughlinhypnotheraphy Tel 087 7838780.

LOCAL POWER WASHING—No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting, gutter cleaning and furniture removals, recycling or rubbish removals. Contact James 0862086141 for free quotation.

EXPERIENCED DOGWALKER available. Dundalk/Blackrock area. Contact Irene 089 9568370.

SIMON’S GARDENS—Grass cutting & general gardening services contact Simon 086 3004930.

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.

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

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING

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

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

FRENCH SPEAKER—Qualified teacher from France available to give grinds for Junior and Leaving Certificate students. €40 for 30 mins. Will travel anywhere in the Dundalk area. Call Roy on 0899835254.

PLANNING NOTICES

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Martin Fox, intend to apply for Full Planning Permission for Demolition of existing vacant dwelling at 50 Quay Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth and construction of 4no. apartments comprising 2no. 1 Bedroom and 2no. 2 Bedroom units. Full permission to include for all bin and cycle storage to rear and all associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Craobh Rua Community Project, intend to apply for Retention Permission, for the as constructed alterations and extensions to the existing community centre, concrete hard surface area, signage, alterations to the front boundary wall and the installation of a boundary palisade fence at 36 Doolargy Avenue, Muirhevna Mor, Dundalk, 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.