15-11-2023 by Peter Kierans

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Irina wins Rotary Leadership Award Page 6

Dealgan Boxing Club celebrate 85th anniversary

All set for Frostival Winter Festival this weekend

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Wednesday, 15th November, 2023. Vol. 16, Issue 46 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Debi Does Damage Tel: 042 932 0888. | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Clean up continues after county hit by Storm Debi By Paul Byrne ALMOST four thousand homes in the Dundalk district were without power on Monday after Storm Debi passed through the county in the early hours of Monday morning. Louth was under a Status Red Wind Warning up to 9am which caused all schools to remain closed to at least 10am. The majority of secondary schools closed for the day with students asked to work from home. In Dundalk and North Louth there were fourteen trees reported to have fallen including one close to the hospital in Dundalk on the Dublin Road. According to Louth County Council they also received reports of flooding just a week after the devastating floods that caused havoc to many homes and businesses across the County. A large tree also fell at the junction of the Ardee/Knockbridge Road out of Dundalk which made the road impassable for a period. “Louth County Council have mobilised significant resources today (Monday 13th) November, in response to the impact of Storm Debi. Throughout Sunday (12th) the local authority monitored what was a rapidly evolving situation, with a complex storm system set to make landfall across the country in the early hours of this morning. Continued on Page 2

A fallen tree blocks the aproach road into Dundalk from Knockbridge. A number of trees were reported to have fallen across the county. Pic Credit: Fiona Louise Farrell.

Clean up continues after county hit by Storm Debi Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

Continued From Page 1 “Met Éireann’s initial yellow weather warnings were upgraded to a status orange then RED for wind in Louth, with the final warning this

morning extending the RED timeframe to between the hours of 5a.m and 9a.m. “Louth County Council put in place contingency arrangements for this period, but with the

safety of all staff, including outdoors crews, paramount during severe weather events, the local authority workforce were not mobilized until a reduced status ‘Orange’ weather warning came into effect after 9a.m. All public counters within Louth County Council buildings opened at 11am. “The full impact of Storm Debi is currently being assessed, with approximately 40 trees reported down in a range of locations across

Louth. The number of incidents being reported continues to rise. “Louth County Fire and Rescue Service and crews of outdoor staff have been working, in extremely difficult conditions, to respond to reports of fallen trees as quickly and as safely as possible. “So far, there have been 25 reports of downed trees across South Louth and Mid Louth. These include Drogheda town (5), Drogheda rural (11), and

7 fallen trees in the Ardee area. One of these incidents, at Mansfieldtown led to a temporary road closure after the falling tree collided with nearby ESB lines. “Louth County Council have utilised the resources of a specialist tree services company to assist in the removal of fallen trees and large branches, and are also using a JCB to remove debris from roads to ensure they are safe for all road users. “There have been

two reports of flooding, along the R170 at Dromin, and at Sliabh Breagh, Ardee, which Louth County Council are currently responding to. “In Dundalk and north Louth there have been a further 14 incidents of fallen trees, including one close to the entrance of Louth County Hospital. Flooding was also reported on the Omeath to Newry Road,” concluded the statement from the local authority. The clean up begins after Storm Debi.

Plight of 93-year-old woman’s four hour wait for ambulance raised at Sinn Fein Ard Fheis

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The Dundalk Leader supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council. You can obtain a copy of the Code of Practice, or contact the Press Council, at 01-6489130; email info@presscouncil.ie. The Dundalk Leader is a member of Free Media Ireland, a network of free newspaper publishers committed to supporting local journalism and delivering engaging content while providing highly effective print advertising with unparalleled circulations. Visit https://freemediaireland.ie to learn more. The Dundalk Leader is printed at WEBPRINT, 2023 Bianconi Avenue, Citywest Business Campus, Naas Road, Dublin 24, D24 EH50. Our paper is sourced from sustainable forests. The paper mills take great care to ensure the viability & sustainability of their forests. The forests that they plant act as massive carbon sinks that more than offset their carbon output. They are a carbon negative industry.

THE plight of a 93-year-old woman whom it is claimed waited almost four hours for an ambulance in Dundalk in recent days, while she was in ‘abject pain’, was raised at this weekend’s Sinn Féin Ard Fhéis in Athlone. The case was highlighted by Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú, who highlighted how a son of the woman had contacted him on Friday evening to tell him how the woman had waited from 5.20pm to 9.05pm for an ambulance to arrive that day. He said this, and many other cases, showed the need for an Irish National Health Service. The Dundalk TD also pointed to recent flooding in the North and in Dundalk and Cooley and contrasted the response of the au-

Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú. thorities on both sides of the border. He drew applause from delegates when he said: ‘While I have many issues with the southern State’s response, let me tell you the supports are be-

ing provided are far more significant, as you would expect, than from a British government that doesn’t care, never cared and never will care about Ireland. Motions in relation to issues in Dundalk

were also passed at the Ard Fhéis with the party adopting a motion that called on the government to set up an independent inquiry into the State’s response to Covid 19, for an inquiry to be

established into what happened at Dealgan House Nursing Home in 2020 and for adult safeguarding legislation, care partnership and cultural change to happen in the provision of care for older people. A motion calling on the government to support communal and district heating systems currently reliant on gas, such as Carlinn Hall in Dundalk, and for a transition to more sustainable energy forms in these developments, was also passed. He also spoke about the need for the government to ‘get serious’ about planning for Irish unity through a Citizens’ Assembly. He said: ‘We can certainly do better than what has been done for over 100 years since partition’. He said: ‘Micheál Martin and Leo Varadkar said that this is

not the way. Well then, show us your alternatives. Show us how you are going to plan for this. ‘Even if you think Irish unity is a bad idea, everyone is talking about it and it would make political sense for politicians to plan’. And at an Ard Fhéis dominated by the situation in Palestine, Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘Sinn Féin will offer something different on an international basis. ‘At this moment, the people of Gaza are under absolute slaughter from what is a supremist, Israeli regime. ‘We need the government to be far stronger on calling for a ceasefire and we need a roadmap, not only for peace and self-determination, we also need to make sure there is freedom for Palestine, freedom for Ireland’.

Fundraiser in aid of Carlingford Riding School A ‘UNICORN and Superhero Pony Rides Fundraiser’ is due to take place at Carlingford Riding School on Saturday, November 18 from 11am to 1pm. A portion of the profits - 20 per cent – is being donated to the riding school to help after recent devastating floods. According to Carlingford Horse Riding School Manager Charlene Meegan, the

event will be open to the general public. “A lot of people don’t know the school is there. It is situated just after The Four Seasons Hotel in Carlingford. If you are driving from Dundalk, turn left at Ghan House car park entrance and we are the first gate on the left,” she said. “The river is still quite high and we are close to the river. The back field is still

50 per cent under water. “We also lost the surface on the arena. We are trying to get funds to tidy up and make it safe for people.” Charlene added: “Farmers are coming in trying to power hose the place as the surface of the arenas washed away. We had a rubber surface that doesn’t freeze in the winter. “The stones are all gone in the yard. We have been

able to source feed, but it’s emergency feed so we are paying over the odds. “The horses are still away in different fields but will come back Friday and Saturday and will get ready for lessons next Monday at the riding school.” She concluded: “The horses are in good form because we got them out in time. The only way I’m able to start up again is because

a lot of my local friends donated saddles, bridles, helmets and boots et cetera.” On the day of the fundraiser, children can avail of a groom and pony ride for €6 and a groom and two pony rides for €10. The Carlingford Horse Riding School is located at the following Eircode: A91 DXY5.

Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

Comprehensive book on history of Louth ACCOUNTS & FINANCE OFFICER to be launched soon Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

Lifestyle Development CLG is a Community Development Company located in Drogheda, Co Louth, providing services which include Adult Education, Lifestart Family Visitation, Young Parents Programmes Local Training Initiative for Early School Leavers, a Community Employment Scheme for South Louth and an Early Childhood Education Project. ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE OFFICER The Accounts & Finance Officer will be a member of Lifestyle Team, working with Management and being responsible to the Managing Director. Maintain accurate and up to date accounts, payroll and tax returns. Conduct reviews of all financial processes and provide reports as required. SKILLS AND ABILITIES • Well organised, with good verbal, written and interpersonal skills. • Work effectively with staff and Funding Agencies. • Organise tasks, set priorities and meet deadlines. • Respond appropriately to evaluation and changes in the work setting. • Candidates should have experience in finance and an understanding of not for profit accounting; pay superb attention to detail. • IT literacy to include Excel, Word; ( payroll and accounts software an advantage). DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Third level qualification or relevant work experience in finance & accounting, business or related field. • A minimum of three years’ experience in not for profit accounting. • Outstanding client service, communication and organisational skills. • Ability to work collaboratively internally and with other similar organisations. POSITION DETAILS The Accounts & Finance officer will work closely with the MD and Board of Directors. This is a full time position (39 hours per week). Salary €40,000 (terms negotiable). To apply please provide a detailed cover letter outlining your suitability for the post and a CV to eilin@lifedev.ie Closing date is 5pm on 27/11/23. Shortlisting will apply. Start Date January 2024. Full Job specification available on request. Lifestyle Development CLG is an equal opportunities employer.

A NEW comprehensive book on County Louth will be launched at County Hall in Dundalk at 7p.m. on Thursday 23rd November. Published by Geography Publications and edited by William Nolan (Emeritus Professor, UCD), it contains 900 pages and is richly illustrated. The introductory foreword is by Paul Gosling, the Dundalkborn archaeologist. The book considers society and settlement from prehistory and the Early Christian Period. A number of essays explore Viking and Anglo-Norman Co. Louth including a chapter by Blackrock-man, Micheál McKeown on Castle Roche. There are a total of 33 chapters. The construction of Dundalk Railway Station is covered and Conor Kenny’s history of selected Big Houses and their owners further illuminates dimensions of Co. Louth. Don Johnston, Ravensdale writes

on the economic connections of Louth with Ulster in his essay on the linen industry about the Flurry River. The development of local government from medieval to modern times are detailed. Political developments, from revolution and civil war to parliamentary politics, in the new state in the early twentieth cen-

tury are by Donal Hall and constitutional politics during over the past fifty years are assessed by Caoilfhionn and Jim D’Arcy. An essay on twentieth century drama and literature, by DkIT’s Fiona Fearon, considers the contribution of Louth natives, including Dorothy Macardle, Tomas Mac Anna and

Paul Vincent Carroll, to Ireland’s literary culture in the twentieth century. DkIT’s Aoileann Ní Éigeartaigh explores Louth’s Gaelic literary heritage and Annaleigh Margey discusses the 1641 Rebellion. Seamus Bellew writes on medieval heraldry. The County Archivist at Dundalk, Lorraine McCann, documents the rich resources of County Louth Archives. The book includes several chapters on aspects of Ardee and Drogheda and the county in general. The book will be launched by Professor Terry Dooley of Maynooth, The book has been sponsored by the County Louth Archaeological and Historical Society and Louth County Council. It will retail at €60 and will be available from Roe River Books or direct from the publisher Geography Publications, email: books@geographypublications.com.

Old Dundalk Society winter lecture series: Battle of Messines THE Old Dundalk Society is delighted to announce the second lecture in its winter series. The lecture tells the Irish Story of the Battle of Messines (World War 1) which will be presented by a visiting delegation from Heuvelland in Belgium. The Lecture takes place at 10.15am on Saturday morn-

ing 18th of November 2023 in County Museum Dundalk. The Lecture tells the story of the Battle of Messines which took place from the 7th to the 14th of June 1917, near the village of Messines in West Flanders Belgium, during the first World War. The event will be hosted by the Old Dundalk Society and

the presentation on the day will be made by Mr Philippe Mingels World War 1 expert. Musician and composer Tracey McRory will perform hauntingly evocative music reflecting local stories of World War 1. Please arrive early on Saturday Morning as the venue has limited capacity. Refreshments served after lecture.

??? QUIZ ??? 1—What was the name of the storm that passed through Louth on Monday morning? 2—There are four colours on the Brazilian flag. Can you name them? 3—Which British sketch comedy show, which aired from 1969 to 1984, was known for its catchphrase “And now for something completely different”? 4—Computer or TV screens are often referred to as LCD, but what does LCD stand for? 5—Traditional Irish band Lúnasa were the very first act to play in which popular Dundalk bar

which opened its doors for the first time in October 1999? 6—Singer Marvin Lee Aday is better known by which one word name which is also a beloved dish in the USA? 7—The flags of China, Pakistan, USA and Turkey all have what in common? 8—What is the name of the traditional Mexican dish made with a corn or flour tortilla, filled with various ingredients, and then folded or rolled up? 9—Castlecomer, Piltown and Mooncoin are towns/villages in which county? 10—Name the Irish broadcaster

who hosted programmes on RTE such as Winning Streak, The Live Mike and The Big Interview. The Stinker—What was the capital of West Germany from 1949-1990?

—ANSWERS— 1—Storm Debi, 2—Green, yellow, white and blue, 3— Monty Python’s Flying Circus, 4—Liquid Crystal Display, 5— The Spirit Store, 6—Meatloaf, 7—They all have a star/stars on the flag, 8—Buritto, 9— Kilkenny, 10—Mike Murphy. The Stinker: Bonn.

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Irina wins Rotary Youth Leadership Award Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

LAST Monday local students travelled to the Ballymascanlon Hotel to receive their Rotary Leadership Certificates. Nine students in total reached the final of the Dundalk Rotary Leadership Awards with Irina Da Silva Godinho from Coláiste Chú Chulainn winning the overall prize. The nine students who were in attendance were Milo Veale from Dundalk Grammar School, Medbh MacClancy from Bush Post Primary School, Annie Ojo from St Vincents, Jessica Daly from St Mary’s College (Marist), Oisin Farrell from Coláiste Ris, Hannah Hanratty from Scoil Ui Mhuiri, James Meehan, De La Salle College and Rhiannon Dolan from St Louis Secondary School. The Rotary Youth Leadership first took place three

Dundalk Rotary President Michael Staunton, Grainne Gorham, Fiona Keane (Dundalk Credit Union), Kelvin Slowley (Colaiste Chú Chulainn), Andrea Flynn (Ballymac), Sean O’Hanrahan, Paddy Williams, Gay Berkery (Dundalk Rotarians) and Irina da Silva Godinho (Winner).

decades ago in 1992 and the competition is open to secondary school students aged 16 to 18. The competition is run by the local branch of the Rotary Club and sponsored by the Ballymascanlon Hotel and Dundalk Credit Union. The overall winner of the

Rotary Youth Leadership award was Irina Da Silva Godinho from Coláiste Chú Chulainn who received her prize from Michael Staunton, President of Dundalk Rotary Club. Irina will now go on to represent Louth at the Regional finals which will be held on the 22nd of November in Dundalk. If

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she wins at the Regional finals part of her prize will include paid for trips by the European Parliament to visit Stormont in Belfast, dail Eireann in Dublin and the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Irina was delighted with her selection and said: “I am proud to represent

the area in this competition. The interviews and selection process was tough but enjoyable. It was interesting to meet Rotarians and discuss with them hopes for young people in Ireland and across Europe. the mix of their wisdom and young people’s enthusiasm was very encouraging.

Irina will now represent her school and the Dundalk Rotary club at the regional stage of the competition which takes place on Wednesday 22nd November. This is Coláiste Chú Chulainn’s first student to make it to this stage of the competition.

Mr Kelvin Slowey, Irina’s mentor for the competition said: “Leadership skills are central to school life. Young people are encouraged to lead and have ambition to change the society we live in where it needs change. The Rotary Ireland Youth Leadership Competition is one of Rotary’s longest running youth projects and has been going on for over 25 years. The competition lets young people enhance their personal development by improving their communication and teambuilding skills. It gives students a platform to gain confidence in public speaking and debating as well as meeting students from around the island of Ireland.

Dundalk FC Harry Taaffe Community Recovery Fund

APPLICATIONS are now open for the Dundalk FC Harry Taaffe Community Recovery Fund, sponsored by Fyffes.The purpose of the Dundalk FC Harry Taaffe Community Recovery Fund is to help a person with experience of mental health challenges to achieve some goals. These goals may be educational, recreational or a social activity that requires some funding to help the person achieve this purpose. Applications must be for a recognised project where there is a clear need and benefit for the person undertaking it. Funding of up to €500 per applicant is

available. What sort of projects are supported by the fund? Part or full payment of educational or training course fees. Contribution towards the development of a creative or artistic project. Contribution towards participation in a recreational activity.

Contribution towards the purchase of an item that may assist the person in a creative, educational or work activity (excludes purchase of mobile phones, games consoles, holidays). Contribution to a project which enhances the person’s employment, self-esteem or presence in the community. Conditions of

application Applications will only be accepted from the individual seeking and benefiting from the funding applied for. We do not accept applications from organisations or mental health professionals on behalf of individuals The maximum amount that can be applied for is €500. Application forms must be typed if possible. If not, writing should be legible in block capital letters. Applications must be accompanied by a quote/full details of the funding being requested. The Dundalk FC Harry Taaffe Community

Recovery Fund is a limited fund. Consequently, it will not be possible to grant all requests for funding. How to apply Visit the Dundalk FC website, click on the ‘Community’ tab and fill out the application form that is available on the Community Recovery Fund page, Email your application to htmentalhealth@ dundalkfc.com If you do not have access to email, you can pick up an application form from the front office at Oriel Park and also return it there. Applications close at 5pm on Friday, November 30th 2023.

Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

More than just a boxing club Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

By Paul Byrne

DEALGAN Boxing Club in Marian Park will celebrate their 85th anniversary this year with a fundraising dinner show in the Gateway Hotel on November 25th. The fundraiser will help raise money to send 20 Dealgan boxers to an international tournament in Canada next May. Like many other clubs around Dundalk and further afield this is what the coaches and leaders do to look after their own. Without these vital fundraisers the club would cease to exist and it’s thanks to the dedication and commitment of volunteer coaches at Dealgan that the club is thriving with a membership of about 140 kids coming through the doors four nights a week. Five years ago the club expanded their gym facilities to cater for the ever-increasing numbers of children and adults who joined the club. If you were to walk through the doors of the club any of the

Dealgan Boxing Club will celebrate their 85th anniversary with a dinner dance fundraiser in the Gateway Hotel on November 25th. four nights a week it is opened for training you would see kids from eight-year-olds upwards all working hard doing exercises, lifting weights, hitting punchbags and sparring in one of the two rings inside the main room of the building. Anto Donnelly is the Head Coach in Dealgan Boxing Club and he is proud at how far the club have come and all that they have achieved since first opening their doors in 1938. “We have a great tradition of producing

fantastic boxers down here and I think there is a very good argument to say that we have produced more Irish titles and medals than any other boxing club in the country,” stated Anto. “We train down here four nights a week and we have a membership of about 140 kids and young adults. We have always been inclusive and we welcome anybody and everybody into our club. People in this country only really talk about boxing every four years when the Olympics is on and they

expect our boxers to do well. What they don’t see is the hard work that goes on in boxing clubs up and down the country week in week out with volunteer coaches helping kids get fit, healthy and strong. “We are more than just a boxing club. We see ourselves as a place to help develop kids characters and help them out with any problems they may have. The fact is that 99% of boxing clubs are in socially deprived areas and we are in the trenches combatting obesity and men-

tal health problems that our children are facing every day. In many respects we are doing the government’s job for them keeping these kids off the streets and out of trouble.If one day every boxing club in Ireland decided to close their doors God knows what would happen,” notes Anto. “I think people’s perception of boxing clubs isn’t a true perception as they don’t see what we do from a humanitarian point of view. Any kid that comes through those doors is immedi-

ately part of our family and we will help that child become strong both physically and mentally. “We help to put people on the right path, and where they would have to travel far and wide to access support, we want to be able to give it to them, right here where they live. We show them the importance of respect and how to treat people properly. Not everybody who comes in here will want to box and that is ok. And the kids that do want to box we have superb

coaches here who volunteer their time to help these kids learn their craft. We have had some brilliant boxers in here down through the years and we have the likes of Sophie Curley Gray and Daisy Kieran who are currently among the best in the country in their respective weight classes. “We are celebrating our 85th anniversary on the 25th of November in the Gateway Hotel with a dinner dance and all money raised will go towards sending twenty of our boxers to an international tourna-

ment in Canada next May. I am thirty years in Dealgan Boxing Club now having started here when I was 23. I became coach of the Elite Irish team three years later and took over as head coach from Willie Muir in 1993. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of all our volunteer coaches we have gone from strength to strength over the last number of years and have been able to expand the facilities with two rooms now in the club where kids train and spar to get strong, fit and healthy. They are all great kids and we love to see them thrive in a safe environment under expert guidance. We’ve been here helping the kids of Cox’s Demesne and further afield for 85 years and hopefully the club will be around for many more years to come,” concluded Anto. If anybody would like to join Dealgan Boxing Club feel free to call into the club at 6:15 during the week at their premises in Marian Park. Kids must be at least 8 years old to join.

The Frostival Winter Festival Christmas Train is Full Steam Ahead Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

THE countdown has officially begun and its full steam ahead for this year’s Dundalk Credit Union ‘Frostival Winter Festival’ on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th of November. The highlight of the festival is the Carnival of Light parade at 7pm on Friday evening which promises to be a magical family affair and the biggest carnival performance to date, with a few surprises along the way! The parade route will animate and illuminates the town centre as it weaves its way through Clanbrassil Street, Crowe Street, Francis Street and Park Street, turning at Oscar’s corner and towards the Demesne to its final destination at the Longwalk SC. Martin Mc Elligott, Town Centre Commercial Manager, is encouraging the public to “Come and celebrate the start of the festive season in style with family and friends, from far and

Frostival Winter Festival takes place this weekend in Dundalk.. wide, inviting them to join us in Dundalk for County Louth’s biggest Christmas celebration!” A very special guest, Kate O’Connor, has been invited by Dundalk Credit Union to celebrate the official Christmas Light Switch On – together with Dundalk Fire Service Kate will place the star on the top of the Frostival Christmas Tree, which in turn

activates the festive streetlights and heralds the start of the Carnival of Light parade! “Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union revealed that “We are delighted Kate O’Connor, a local sporting star, European U-20 heptathlon silver medallist, Commonwealth games heptathlon silver medallist, and Irish indoor pentathlon record holder

will help us light up the town for Christmas at Frostival on Friday. We are thrilled to be part of Frostival again this year and all that it brings in terms of festive warmth and cheer for families and businesses across our community.” Also launching at 7pm on the Friday evening as part of the festival will be Dundalk Credit Union’s Christmas

Animated Light Show which will transform Market Square into a shimmering canvas of images, special effects and other surprises! These awe-inspiring illuminations will take place daily from 4pm over the festive season. The Christmas Artisan Fair, open from 11am to 8pm on Friday at Market Square, is the perfect place to discover

sweet treats and bespoke festive gifts. The Little Elves Fun zone is ideal for younger children and open from 4pm until 8pm. On Saturday the Artisan Fair re-opens at 11am, and the Fun Zone kicks off from 12 noon. There will also be performances from Elite Star School of Performance and St. Brigid’s pipe Band in the lead up to Saturday’s headline act ‘FIRESTORM’ by Rogu - a fire show like no other at 6pm on Market Square and it’s free. A perfect evening for all the family to enjoy, and finale to this year’s festival! Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union, emphasised the Credit Union’s commitment to promoting sustainability for our community, our businesses, and our future. He stated, “Dundalk Credit Union is thrilled to continue its support of Frostival, a celebration that brings our community together

and continues to champion ecofriendly choices across all events and activities. We believe in the power of events like Frostival to delight and engage with families and promote local businesses, and we are excited to be a part of this event that embodies the spirit of community, stronger together. Together, we’ll light up Dundalk with the warmth of the season and a commitment to a greener future.” Colette Moss, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council: “Louth County Council are delighted to sponsor the 2023 Frostival festival. This fantastic festival is a wonderful additional to the calendar of events being run throughout the year by Dundalk BIDS. It will enhance the visitor experience in Dundalk in the run up to the Christmas season. I extend my best wishes to Martin and the team in Dundalk BIDS for another successful event. Martin McElligott

said “Frostival is the perfect community event to bring everyone together to celebrate the start of the festive season. We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to our main commercial sponsor Dundalk Credit Union, and our civic sponsor Louth County Council for their kind support and sponsorship of this year’s events. It would not be possible to organise and deliver a festival of this magnitude without their generosity and commitment, and also the support of our associate sponsors An Táin Arts Centre, The Urge Stage & Lighting, and Dundalk Tidy Towns. “A special word of thanks also to An Garda Síochána, Dundalk Fire Brigade, The Civil Defence, Dundalk Football Club Security Team, and all the wonderful volunteers for their help!” Keep an eye on @ frostivaldundalk social media channels for updates!

Cara Cancer Care Fundraiser inNEWS Brief Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

Dundalk Gardaí seize €25,000 of drugs A DUNDALK woman who

GARDAÍ have seized approximately €25,000 of controlled drugs and arrested one man following a search operation in Dundalk, Co. Louth on Thursday 9th November 2023. This operation was carried out by Dundalk Drugs Unit, with assistance from Dundalk Crime Unit, Regular Unit, Dog Unit, Armed Support Unit, Louth Divisional Search Team, Revenue Customs and the Dog Warden. During the course of these s earch es app roxima t ely €25,000 of suspected cannabis was seized. The drugs will be sent for forensic analysis. Three designer watches and a luxury car were also seized under Section 7 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. In total, in excess of €25,000 worth of controlled drugs, a quantity of cash and in excess of €30,000 in assets were seized. One man, aged in his 20s, was arrested during the course of this operation and detained at a Garda Station in Co. Louth. He has since been released without charge and a file will be prepared for the DPP. Investigations are ongoing.

has recovered from lung cancer has helped to raise nearly €4,000 for Cara Cancer Support Service. Ciara Tennyson from the Carrick Road organised a fundraiser for the charity which was held in the Oriel Centre on Thursday, November 9. “We had a coffee morning and fashion show in aid of Cara. It was a great success. I couldn’t believe it. It was fantastic,” said Ciara. “I had cancer myself last year and had major surgery. I was lucky, I didn’t have to have further treatment. “The mental part is very different but Cara is brilliant. I went to the Centre and they have so many services that help you to manage how you are feeling.” Ciara added: “You can also just go into Cara and have a cup of tea and chat with people who are in the same position. There’s an understanding there. “I felt I wanted to give something back because I got so much out of the Centre. It was pure luck that I discovered the cancer. “I have asthma and went to my GP to ask about switch-

Alzheimer’s Café

Ciara Tennyson and Anna Brennan.

ing inhalers. I was sent for an Xray and a little nodule showed up.” She continued: “There was no cancer in the biopsies but I was sent to a surgeon who said we could wait and watch it a while or I could have surgery.

“The nodule was removed and sent to the lab and it was confirmed as cancerous. The recovery was hard but day by day it got easier. “I have two young teenagers and every time I looked at them, I was crying. I was asking myself: Will I be

here for Christmas?” If anyone would like to donate or find out more information please contact Cara Cancer Support Centre at 7 Williamson Place, Dundalk or call 042-933 9383. Alternatively send an email to info@ccscdundalk.ie.

Cara Cancer Care Fundraiser

Rhona O’Hagan.

Kay Mulholland, Maeve Curtis and

Rachel Yore and Frances Toal.

Olive Sharkey and Margaret Cun ning

Marie Larkin.

ham.

Join us on Tuesday 21st November at 11:00am12:30pm for a relaxing morning of advice, music, tea and a chat! We will have a Guest Speaker: Maeve Montgomery, the Dementia Advisor for County Louth, on the “Benefits of Creative Hobbies and Dementia”, a Demonstration of the Magic Table and Live Music and Refreshments. 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 or libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie.

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Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM

MULHOLLAND Cathal 20th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Cathal who died 20th November 2003. Will those who think of him today, A little prayer to Jesus say. —Always loved and missed by his wife Angela and family. Anniversary Mass in the Redemptorist Church, on Sunday, 19th November, at 9.30am.

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

OUR WEEKLY DEADLINE For FAMILY NOTICES is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication. Contact Lorna for further information.

Tel 042 9320888

A special fundraising concert for Dundalk Youth Centre

among young people in Dundalk and all around the north east. Emergence has just won a Louth PPN Community and Voluntary Award for its contribution to enhancing quality of life in Louth for children and young people.

SPECIAL SERVICES

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie. PREMISES FOR RENT or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

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. ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758 . FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10 - 2pm. WATCH REPAIRS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478. Please note, we do not fix Clocks. BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529. 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. POWER WASHING/GARDEN SERVICES—All garden tidy ups, lawns, hedges, pathways, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048. DDS PAINTING & Decorating Services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel David 085 7308777. 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. PAINTING & DECORATING—Interior & Exterior, Spray Painting & Hand Painted Kitchens, also repaint your old bedroom furniture, sideboards etc. All work carried out by professional Trades Men. Call Brian 087 7558506. GRASS-CUTTING in and around the Dundalk area. Experienced and reliable. Contact Michael on 0871477067.

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.

ARTICLES FOR SALE

ALL AMPED UP

DUNDALK Youth Centre is delighted to announce a special fundraiser concert ‘All Amped Up’ taking place in the Spirit Store on Thursday November 23rd. Dundalk Youth Centre is a non-profit organisation, that provides a creative youth service for young people aged 12-18 in Dundalk, including a purpose built Youth Café, where young people can come have a cuppa and a chat, play pool and hang out. A programme of arts, a counselling and therapy service and a music room, that provides a safe space, for beginners and more advanced musicians, band rehearsals, a recording studio and a variety of music workshops. We’ve forged a fantastic relationship with the Spirit Store over the past 18 months with the Emergence concert series that showcases the wealth of musical talent

PROPERTY/RENTALS

‘All Amped Up’ represents the energy of the burgeoning music scene in Dundalk and the line-up is a celebration of that where some of our best loved bands and musicians will share the bill with the outstanding emerging

talent coming through. The line-up includes the legend that is Jinx Lennon, Orwells ‘84, Sophie Coyle plus stars of the future Rowan Murphy, TJ Murphy, Carmen and Mia Martin and more to be announced. There will also be a raffle on the night with some very scintillating prizes including a Fender Squier Stratocaster electric guitar and amp, a Forme Winster 2 Hybrid Bike, an art piece from our friends from the Buhoma Youth Project in Uganda, and many more to be announced over the next few weeks. It will be a great night of craic and music and it takes place at the Spirit Store on Thursday November 23rd 2023. Doors at 7.45pm. Tickets are €10 and are available through the Spirit Store website and Dundalk Youth Centre. We appreciate your support.

ATTENTION LANDLORDS—We supply furniture & Beds for any rental properties you have. Beds from €180, Bedroom Furniture Sets from €249 Call us today www. bedstore.ie, Coes Rd, Dundalk Tel 042 932 0927. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

SPECIAL SERVICES 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 087225-9799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices. ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>. HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service. Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured. For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www. everkleenservices.ie>. TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote. PROFESSIONAL TILER AVAILABLE for all types of tiling, Specialising in full bathroom refits. Over 25 years’ experience, Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane—086 107 5080. 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. 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.

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. GW PAINTING AND DECORATING— No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079. JEWELLERY PARTIES—Top commissions paid, contact Alan, Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Complex, Dundalk. Tel 042 9339478 Mob 087 3898908 or Email goldstarjewellersdundalk@gmail.com. PHYSIC MEDIUM—Specialising in Romance, available by appointment every Thursday in Castle Street, Ardee. Contact Fran Walsh 089 2050925. LOCAL POWER WASHING—No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting, gutter cleaning and furniture removals. Contact James 087 4464960 for free quotation.

CLASSES & COURSES GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228. SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink retail park, Monday to Friday, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations. com. FRENCH GRINDS AVAILABLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.

SITUATIONS WANTED EXPERIENCED PERSON AVAILABLE for cleaning, to a very high standard, to homes and businesses in Dundalk. All cleaning products provided, references available Tel 083 3240022.

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Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

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Speakeasy night in the Gaol

Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023

LOCAL music lovers who enjoy jazz and blues have the chance to attend a Speakeasy Night at Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol on Saturday, November 18 at 8pm. If you fancy a bit of jazz and blues music next weekend, duo, The Two Five Ones are due to host a Speakeasy Night in the Oriel Centre on the Carrick Road. Singer Dara MacGabhann works in Louth Local Development and is part of the singer/ guitarist duo with Andy Hogg from Monaghan town. “We founded the duo in 2016. We specialise in popular songs from old movies from the 1920s to the 1950s,” said Dara. “The songs include ‘Fly Me to The Moon’ and ‘Cheek to Cheek’. We also launched a new album of original songs in July this year. “On the night we have other guests join-

Dara MacGabhann and Andy Hogg. ing us such as Newry man John Cosgrove and Alex Watson from Ballybay.” This is a fun night with a difference, as dress up in 1920s to 1950s is encouraged for those who want to get into the full swing of the evening. The Two Five Ones have been putting on Speakeasy nights since 2018. Speakeasy bars sprang

up all over America during the prohibition era. Basically, they were secret bars, often with live music. Their shows generally take place in quirky venues, barns, old churches and the like so the Dundalk Old Gaol will certainly fit the bill, and of course the bar will be open on the night.“People don’t have to dress up, but I’d encourage it. I don’t

want to put people off going. It’s a very quirky venue,” said Dara. “We usually play in old churches or barns. It’s nice to hold an event like this in a different kind of venue.” There are still some tickets available for the Speakeasy Night in the Gaol from the Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol and from their website, or directly from Eventbrite.The Two Five Ones will be a band of four for the night, with Alex Watson on double bass and Newry man John Cosgrove on Soprano Saxophone and special guest Celia Richard.Expect to hear songs from the golden age of 1920s, 30s, 40s and 50s on the night along with some of The Two Five Ones’ own compositions.Their second studio album Slave to the Moon was launched by Charlie McGettigan in July and has been receiving airplay across the country and UK.

Revenue seize over 9.8 million cigarettes

ON Friday, as part of an intelligence-led operation, Revenue officers seized over 9.8 million cigarettes, following the search of a vehicle in County Louth. The seizure was made with the assistance of detector dog Toby and with the support of members of An Garda Síochána from the Dundalk Detective Unit, the Roads Policing Unit and the Armed Support Unit. The illicit cigarettes, branded ‘Platinum Seven’, have an estimated value of over €8.2 million, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of approximately €6.4 million.

Toby the Dog with the seized cigarettes worth almost €10m. A man in his 60s has been questioned and investigations are ongoing. This seizure is part of Revenue’s ongoing

operations targeting the shadow economy and the supply of illegal tobacco products. If businesses, or members of the public,

have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.

“The Craft of Blacksmithing with An Gobha, Tom King” JOIN us in Dundalk Library on Wednesday 15th November at 11:00am, and meet Tom King; An Gobha (The Blacksmith), an artist Blacksmith working hot iron in the style of the ancestors at the heart of the Boyne Valley, Ancient East. With forge burning brightly, the hammer strikes red hot iron upon anvil to rhythm, keeping an age-old tradition alive replicating early Celtic Artefacts and Commission Works. Listen to stories and

hear Tom explain about the craft of Blacksmithing and the magic of working the forge. To book your place, please visit: https:// louthsciencefestival.ie/booking/. Contact Dundalk Library at 0429353190 for further details. “WOOL WORKSHOP WITH THE FOUNDER OF WOOL IN SCHOOL, LORNA McCORMACK” Join us in Dundalk Library on Thursday 23rd November at 11:30am, for a workshop with

the founder of Wool in School, Lorna McCormack. This workshop is designed to engage participants in the exploration of wool in Ireland. Attendees will learn about the science of and properties of wool, sustainability and why wool is important in the conversation of climate change. To book your place, please visit: https://louthsciencefestival.ie/ booking/. Contact Dundalk Library at 042-9353190 for further details.

HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Dundalk Leader 15th November 2023