17-01-2024 by Peter Kierans

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Brigid 1500 Festival details announced Page 4

Christmas gift to remember for Nicholas Page x10x

Successful exhibition for local Young Scientists Page 11

Wednesday, 17th January, 2024. Vol. 17, Issue 3 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888. | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

‘We’ve been Taking the Michael! ignored for over a decade’ By Paul Byrne

Residents plead for help as anti social behavior escalates on Peter Street

USED syringes and packaging dumped in an alleyway just off Peter St. are being disposed of almost every day by an angry resident who claims that nobody is willing to help as drug users continue to cause issues on the street. Peter St. just off Quay St has become a haven for drug users who gather in the alleyway every evening, leaving drug paraphernalia behind them.

Last weekend another fire in the alleyway had to be tended to as antisocial behaviour continues to leave residents in fear on the street. In 2021 a 68-year old resident was lucky to still be alive when two bins were set alight in the alleyway which caused gas cables running to a gas metre box to melt as well as TV cables to their house. Thankfully, the fire didn’t spread to the gas metre box but the stress of the ordeal and the constant anti-social behaviour in the alleyway has since led to him leaving his home Nine year old Michael McCartney has been selected to play with the on Peter St. Atletico de Madrid Academy team in Dublin. Full Story Page 6. Continued on Page 2

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

‘We’ve been ignored for over a decade’ Continued on Page 2 The residents who still live there continue to deal with those problems however and speaking to the Dundalk Leader this week a man who didn’t wish to be named said he feels that nobody is listening to them and has once again pleaded for help from the local authorities to do something to alleviate the constant issues in the alleyway. “Everyday I see drug users sticking needles into their arms up that alleyway and they are leaving their dirty needles behind in an area where kids from this street are playing every day. It’s not on and something needs to be done about it before an innocent person gets seriously hurt. I spend my days cleaning up these needles and disposing of them but I’m sick to death of it. I have rang the gardaí telling them to come down and warn these drug users away but they tell me it’s not their problem. I have called Louth County Council and local councillors but nothing is ever done. We had a fire here in 2021 and my neighbour was lucky his house didn’t go up in flames and the damage to the wall from that incident is still evident. The local authorities didn’t even bother coming down to put a bit of plaster on the wall, a job that would take no more than half an hour.

This wall was damaged after a fire in the alleyway in 2021. Almost three Last weekend a fire was started in this doorway years later no efforts have been made to repair damage. which is located in the alleyway off Peter St. ‘Issues relating to a “I’ve been living on to stop when it got rePeter St. for over a dec- built and renamed as laneway adjacent to Peade now and these prob- Halliday Mills but there ter Street, Dundalk, were lems have been constant are just as many prob- raised at the monthly throughout that period. lems with that building meeting of Louth Coun- Harvest is a male ginger cat, It’s not my job to clean as there was before as ty Council on Monday, he was wearing a light blue up needles to help pro- far as I can see. Halliday 15th January. The coun- collar when he disappeared tect any kid that hap- Mills is directly behind cil executive undertook on 29th November from his pens to be playing in our street and we are to examine same in the the alleyway. I ring the seeing all the issues they context of ownership, in home in Seatown, Dundalk. Gardaí and they direct are having with trou- the first instance. HARVEST IS EXTREMELY me to call a response blesome tenants on our ‘As always, reports of LOVED AND MISSED. line which nobody ever doorsteps. There’s peo- drug dealing/taking and answers. I’m sick of ple fighting outside our anti- social behaviour If you have any ringing them and being houses, damaging our are a matter for An Gar- information please ignored. Somebody is cars and that’s a whole call 087 714 4177. da Siochana.’ going to die down in that different set of problems alleyway. Nobody is tak- on top of the drug users. ing responsibility. We’ve We are all just sick and asked for cameras to be tired of being ignored installed. We’ve asked and we are pleading with for a garda presence. Louth County Council “We’ve been told we and the Gardaí to help can’t put up a gate in us. We can’t be here in case residents need to another ten years time get out via the alleyway. and still be talking about We’re at our wits end the same thing. Please down here. Obviously do something for us,” there was huge issues pleaded the resident. with Ard Dealgan with A response from anti-social behaviour Louth County Council and that was supposed stated the following.

The sight of used heroin needles and other drug paraphenalia are a regular occurence for residents of Peter St.

MISSING CAT

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

Celebrating the Birthplace and Legacy of St. Brigid

CELEBRATIONS commemorating the remarkable life of St. Brigid of Faughart are set to captivate audiences throughout Louth as the highly anticipated Brigid 1500: ‘Louth Birthplace of Brigid’ festival kicks off on January 26th, 2024. The programme, spearheaded by Louth County Council, is a tribute to one of Ireland’s most esteemed saints, offering a rich tapestry of events and initiatives highlighting her legacy. The festival, taking place from Friday 26th January to 5th February 2024, promises an enriching and immersive experience honouring the life, contributions, and cultural impact of this iconic Irish saint from her birth in the 5th century in Faughart, near Dundalk, Co. Louth, to her founding a monastery in Co. Kildare. The inaugural event, the Brigid 1500 Arts Exhibition in the former Houstons building at no 4-5 Clanbrassil St, commencing on 26th January, and running until 5th February, offers a captivating portrayal of St. Brigid’s life through vibrant art pieces created by acclaimed artists Susan Farrelly, Una Curley, Claire McAteer, and Etaoin O’Reilly and led by Grainne Murphy. These art pieces, a fusion of various mediums, aim to capture the remarkable life story of one of

Ireland’s best-known saints, featuring original art pieces from the ‘Artist in the Community’ project over the past 12 months. The exhibition will also feature the wonderful St. Brigid’s Cloak which was created by the students at St. Brigid’s School, Ard Easmuinn last year and which was toured around the libraries throughout the summer. The ‘St. Brigid of Ireland’ Museum Exhibition at the County Museum, Dundalk, will be a stunning showcase honouring the life and accomplishments of one of our most revered saints. The exhibition explores her connections to both Pagan and Christian traditions and runs from 26th January to the 29th February. The commemorative events extend beyond the art realm with Northern Lights – Brigid 1500, a stunning multisensory

light performance that pays homage to Brigid of Faughart, in Dundalk Town Centre. This never seen before spectacular lighting display, choreographed to music, intertwines historical, cultural, and spiritual elements with state-ofthe-art technology. Running from 31st January until 5th February, then every weekend until the end of February. A newly devised Brigid: Lady of Light theatrical performance at An Táin Arts Centre on 1st and 2nd February, promises an immersive theatrical experience, recounting St. Brigid’s compelling story from birth in Faughart to her legacy in Kildare. Commissioned by the Council this piece features local musicians, dancers and singers along with the Setanta Choir in what promises to be a wonderful evening of music and song to cel-

ebrate our female icon. Throughout January, various Brigid Workshops, will engage communities across Dundalk, Drogheda and Ardee. Led by local artists and coordinated by Louth Library Service in conjunction with Louth Country Council Arts Office, all workshops will be free of charge. Additionally, a series of Talks & Lectures on 27th January, led by Dr. Mary Condren and Women’s Spirit Ireland, will delve into insightful topics surrounding the saint’s life and influence. This day long event will feature renowned speakers and performers including Nóirín Ní Ríain, Ruth Marshall and Colette Allen. The commemoration also includes captivating events such as Candlelit Tales’ performance at the historic Oriel Centre Dundalk Gaol, on 3rd February, a Brigid Trail, and the Brigid of Faughart Festival offering a diverse range of activities and experiences from 31st January to 5th February 2024. Louth County Council Arts Officer, Moya Hodgers explained, “We are very excited to welcome visitors to Louth to join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of Brigid of Faughart. We invite visitors from far and wide to immerse themselves in the enchanting story of Ireland’s beloved saint, and we have a fan

Cllr McGeough condemns Castlebellingham church damage

SINN Féin Councillor Pearse McGeough has condemned those responsible for causing damage at the local Church of Ireland in Castlebellingham. Speaking after visiting the Church before Christmas, Cllr McGeough said “this beautiful Church has an adjacent building which is joined by a covered alcove. That alcove seems to be attracting an anti-social element as a shelter from the elements when they wish to ‘hang out’. Unfortunately, because the door to this alcove was locked there was damage caused to it by those who were determined to get into it.” This is not the first time Cllr McGeough has been contacted in relation to damage. Cllr McGeough said “there have been similar occurrences

Scene of the vandalised church. in 2018 and 2019 when there was extensive damage done. What people tend to forget is that these are sacred grounds and as such there should be respect for the building and also

those who are buried within the grounds. I am of the belief that it is young people who are seeking shelter but they are old enough to know what they are doing and that the damage they are causing has to be repaired and paid for by somebody.” Concluding, Cllr McGeough said “The people in Castlebellingham have no time for vandalism especially at a Church and a few mindless, immature people will not destroy our sense of Community. “In the meantime, I would ask people to keep an eye out and report any anti-social behaviour and also if you noticed anything around the Church of Ireland on the Sunday night before Christmas please let the Gardaí know.”

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

Dundalk youth selected for Atletico Madrid Academy Academy scouts two years ago when he took part in their summer camp. Officials were impressed with the youngster but he was too young to join the academy as U10 is the lowest age group they have. Once Michael turned nine he was asked by the Atletico Madrid Academy to travel to Dublin for Try Out’s and last week he took part in those try out’s and was accepted into the Academy having once again impressed the coaches. Michael

took part in his first match (a friendly) against Rathcoole over the weekend and this weekend he will play his first league match for his new team. Michael’s parents Donna and Paul were understandably hugely proud of their son with Donna saying that Michael loves his new team and is excited to play his first league match for them this weekend. “He absolutely lives and breaths soccer and he has shown talent ever since he first played. He started off

with the Shamrocks and then moved to Muirhevnamór FC for a year but he missed his old pals and ended up going back to Shamrocks. He has always been soccer mad so I was constantly looking out for soccer camps for him. I came across the Atletico Madrid camp a couple of years ago and enrolled him in it. He loved it and the coaches were very impressed with him but he was only 7 so he was too young to play in any of their teams. “When he turned 9

they invited us to go up and go for try out’s for their U10 team so he went up last Tuesday and did great and was asked to join the team. He is obviously delighted and he can’t wait to get going with his new team. It’s pretty intensive as he has to go training with them three times a week and then a match at the weekend. It’s a pretty professional set up with Spanish coaches from Atletico Madrid and as well as playing for the club each week Michael will get the chance to train in Spain later on in the year. “His younger sister Chloe loves playing soccer too and she plays with Muirhevnamór. I would have played with them too when I was a kid and my husband Paul played with them too as well as getting picked for Dundalk FC’s school of excellence at U16 level. Michael used to play as a striker but he told his

Michael McCartney. coaches he wanted to be more involved in the game so he now plays as an attacking midfielder. He would play all day every day if he was al-

lowed and he can’t wait to get started this weekend with his new club,” stated Donna. Carlos Aguirre and Carlos Cano are the

head coaches at the Elite Football Academy powered by Atletico de Madrid in Dublin and their philosophy is to help the kids grow as footballers and teach them the values of sport. “We are here to help the kids learn how to play football and also the values of sports. Different things are needed to help them grow. Solidarity, being consistent, resilience,” stated Cano. “I am a UEFA Pro coach with a Masters Degree in football and I have been coaching at Atletico Madrid for eight years. I really want to help share all the experience I have gained with these talented kids. This is such a great opportunity to help them improve and grow as a player. We also want to ensure they have fun and we look forward to working with our players this season,” stated Carlos.

??? QUIZ ??? 1—Can you name the snooker player who won a record eighty Masters title at Alexandra Palace on Sunday evening? 2—Put these Tom Hanks movies in chronological order (earliest to latest). Big, Splash, Saving Private Ryan and Forrest Gump. 3—There are fourteen landlocked countries in Europe. Can you name the two that start with the letter A? 4—Name the only two countries on planet earth

where you cannot buy Coca Cola? 5—Name the famous naval officer and Arctic explorer, was born on 8 July 1819 in Number 1 Seatown Place, Dundalk. 6—Can you name the only active volcano in Mainland Europe? 7—In American Football, how many points do you score for a touchdown? 8—How many years did World War I last for? 9—Which Emily Brontë novel inspired Kate Bush’s first hit?

10—Three counties in Ireland have just four letters. Can you name them? The Stinker—Can you name the six states in Australia?

—ANSWERS—

1—Ronnie O’Sullivan, 2—Splash (1984), Big (1988), Forrest Gump (1994), Saving Private Ryan (1998), 3—Andorra and Austria, 4—Cuba and North Korea, 5— Francis Leopold McLintock, 6—Mount Vesuvius, 7—Six, 8—Four years 1914-18, 9—Wuthering Heights, 10—Cork, Down and Mayo. The Stinker: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, South Australia

NINE-year old soccer sensation Michael McCartney has been accepted into the Atletico Madrid Football Academy in Dublin at U10 level following a successful try out last week. The talented youngster from Greenfield Court, just off Tom Bellew Avenue, plays with Shamrocks FC in Dundalk as an attacking midfielder under the guidance of coaches Darren Meenan and Conor Mackin. He first came to the attention of Atletico Madrid

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Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

Local talents shine at showcase 2024

SHOWCASE 2024 at the RDS, from 21-23 January, is where Louth’s finest creative entrepreneurs are making big waves. This year’s contingent from Louth are truly showcasing local talent and Irish creativity, bringing a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation. Sarah Mallon from Local Enterprise Office Louth explains “Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for local creatives to get in front of global buyers. We all know that people buy from people, and Showcase provides the chance for makers to meet buyers face to face, forge relationships and talk about their products. We are delighted to support 3 incredible makers as they step onto a global stage, highlighting their talent and Louth’s creative gems.” New to Showcase 2024 is Fiona Lynch of Almond Rose Design, with a really innovative

and creative new product offering. Celebrating the way that animals communicate with humans on a daily basis, Fiona has created a large range of pet cards to celebrate the big (and little) occasions in life. All cards are designed inhouse, printed in Ireland on sustainably sourced card paper with ecofriendly inks. A visit to Fiona’s website almondrosedesigns.ie will reveal cards for every occasion including Good Luck, Get Well, Love, Sympathy, Wedding cards and much more, there’s even pet cards as Gaeilge! Visual artist Caóilfíonn Murphy O’Hanlon, of Cushla of Gullion, creates stunning wall art and home accessories from her base in Dundalk. Founded in 2014, textile artist Caóilfíonn is inspired by the land, legends and lore of her surroundings. Her quirky, nostalgic

Representing Louth at Showcase 2024 are local makers Caóilfíonn Murphy O’Hanlon of Cushla of Gullion, Fiona Lynch of Almond Rose Designs and Caroline Duffy of Caroline Duffy Designs. They are supported by LEO Louth. and vibrant prints, gifts and homewares bring the rugged Irish Landscape into homes across Ireland and the world. Cushla Of Gullion’s stunning work has been exhibited and exported internationally and is designed and made in Ireland. Visit cushlaofgullion.com to see her work. Caroline Duffy of Caroline Duffy Designs is showcasing her stunning hand printed floral artwork at Showcase for

the second year running. Her collection includes a range of striking art, prints, silk dresses, kimonos, scarves and woven blankets. Her signature style is instantly recognisable and has garnered significant media and buyer interest in the past year. View her collection on carolineduffydesigns.com Sarah Mallon concludes “Showcase 2024 is not just a display of products; it’s where creativity, sustainability,

beautiful materials and incredible makers come together to remind Irish and international buyers how local talent can make a global splash. Visitors will find unique, handcrafted Irish products, each with its own story. From exquisite jewellery to bespoke textiles, and so much more, Showcase 2024 is the highlight of the year in Ireland’s craft sector and we are thrilled to offer 3 local makers the chance to be part of it..”

ism through a powerful historical play based on true stories. Belfast Girls is written by Jaki McCarrick, an award-winning writer from Dundalk. The play was developed at the National Theatre London and was shortlisted for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and the 2014 BBC Tony Doyle Award. It premiered in Chicago in May 2015 to much critical acclaim, and has since been staged widely

internationally, with recent premieres in Australia, Sweden, and New York. Jaki has recently completed the screen adaptation of the play. Paul Hayes Director of An Táin Arts Centre says ‘I came across the play some 6 years ago and couldn’t believe that despite its success internationally Belfast Girls has never had an Irish premiere. This is by far the biggest production An Táin Arts Centre has ever produced and it’s a fitting way to celebrate our 10-year anniversary. New theatre of this import rarely gets made outside of our cities; it will be a great honour to finally bring this play home to Dundalk.’ The play will be directed by Anna Simpson of Quintessence Theatre and stars Donna Anita

Nikolaisen as Judith, Leah Rossiter as Hanna, Carla Foley as Sarah, Siobhan Kelly as Molly, and Fiona Keenan O’ Brien as Ellen. Set and Costume is by Sinéad O’ Donnell-Carey with lighting design by Sophie Cassidy. Belfast Girls will run from the 25th January until the 27th January at An Táin Arts Centre before transferring to the Lyric Theatre, Belfast, the Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda and Solstice Arts Centre in Navan. Belfast Girls is presented in Association with The Lyric Theatre, Belfast and The North East Network (An Táin Arts Centre, Droichead Arts Centre, and Solstice Arts Centre, Navan). Tickets are available from www.antain.ie or

An Táin Arts Centre celebrates ten years

2024 will be a big year for An Táin Arts Centre. The venue will celebrate its 10th Birthday and will mark this milestone with a major in-house production, the Irish Premiere of Jaki McCarrick’s renowned play Belfast Girls. Set in 1850, Belfast Girls tells the story of five fierce young women who face their dark pasts on a ship bound for Australia, as they leave Belfast in search of a better life. Confined in close quarters in the belly of the ship, they embark on a tumultuous sea journey as they sail away from their homeland. Secrets are revealed, enemies made, and it becomes clear that no matter where they go, there is no escaping the past. Presented by An Táin Arts Centre and Quin-

tessence Theatre, who just finished a 17-venue national tour of their original play The Curious Case of Albert Cashier. In this performance, the former An Táin Arts Centre Theatre Company in Residence will bring their unique physical ensemble style to McCarrick’s gripping story, exploring urgent, current questions around classism, patriarchy, and the ripple effects of colonial-

Over €80,000 in funding for organisations supporting victims of crime

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FIANNA Fáil Senator in Louth, Erin McGreehan, has welcomed the allocation of over €80,000 in funding for three Louth organisations supporting victims of crime. The new funding has been allocated under a total fund of €7.7 million announced by the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee. Women’s Aid Dundalk will receive €32,566, Dundalk Counselling Centre CLG will receive €35,000 and Drogheda Women’s and Children’s Refuge Centre will receive €16,222.50. The total funding

provided to the three organisations is €83,788.50. Senator McGreehan said: “This new funding will be hugely welcome to Women’s Aid Dundalk, Dundalk Counselling Centre and Drogheda Women’s and Children’s Refuge Centre in their vitally important work. Victims of crime need supports and services of the highest possible standard and this new funding will help to ensure they receive them. “I know that funding will be provided through Cuan, the new agency that is driv-

ing and co-ordinating the Government’s response to domestic, sexual and genderbased violence. The establishment of this agency has been such an important step as we now have a statutory organisation so that organisations like Women’s Aid Dundalk, Dundalk Counselling Centre CLG and Drogheda Women’s and Children’s Refuge are not on their own and are assisted in providing the best help possible to victims. “The state must continue to fund organisations that help victims to the maxi-

mum extent possible. The extent of the work that they do, whether it be 24-hour helpline, one-to-one support, crisis accommodation, advocacy and support, supported housing or court support is staggering. These organisations have ambitious plans to help as many victims to the best standard possible and funding and capacity must continue to be provided to help enable them to do even more beyond the vital work they are already doing.”

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

A Christmas gift to remember Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

WHEN Nicholas Kearns received a book on Christmas morning from his daughter Nicola, little did he know that the book titled ‘The Man from the Bann’ was a selection of his own poems that he has written from his youth right up to the present day. The book hosts a combination of poems by Nicholas, who was born in Banbridge but who has lived in Dundalk for almost fifty years. The Toberona man said it took him a minute or two to get his head around what he was looking at when his daughter Nicola (a highly accomplished best selling author who has published four novels including The Malta Saga trilogy as well as last year’s very well received ‘Under an Irish Sky, which looks at the lives of the women who lived through the Easter Rising, the War of Independence and the Civil War) handed

him a new book on Christmas morning. “She handed me this book and it took me a minute or two to twig that the book was actually a collection of my own poems which Nicola had put together. I have previously published a couple of poetry books and Nicola has put poems from those books as well as some of her favourites of mine that I have showed her down through the years. “The book starts with a poem called ‘Days of my Youth’ which I wrote when I was 17 and ends with one called ’Age’ which was written recently so it’s a book which contains the journey of my life to date, beginning in London during the second world warwhere my mother was the youngest Chief librarian, through to my teenage years as a goatherd, then a weaver in Belfast before moving to Dundalk after I

got a job as a welder in Carrickmacross. ‘The poems highlight my passion for fishing, shooting, family, friends, history, folklore and my faith in God. I have to say it was the best Christmas present I’ve ever received and I am very thankful and proud of my daughter Nicola. “She is a wonderful writer and is doing very well. I like to paint as well and she has used my painting of the River Bann from my home town of Banbridge as the cover of the book,” stated Nicholas. According to Nicola the labour of love took her around six months to complete and contains around 250 of her Dad’s poems. “I put the book together in the space of about six months using poems from books that Dad had previously published as well as favorites of mine that he has

written. He has probably written thousands of poems down through the years and I wanted to put some of his best ones together in a book and gift it to him. He will be 80 next year and he has been a huge inspiration for me and I wouldn’t be an author today without him. We were looking at the Amazon Book charts in the Fishing and poetry section and he was number two in the week it was released sandwiched between Shakespeare and Wordsworth so we got a good laugh out of that. “The book has given him a new lease of life and I’m delighted that he is enjoying it so much,” stated Nicola. The Man From The Bann is available to buy from Amazon or Kindle and the hardNicola Kearns with her Dad Nicholas. back edition costs €18.

Marian Park residents Committee discuss plans for 65th anniversary

THE recently formed Marian Park Residents’ Committee are due to have their first meeting next month to discuss plans for the estate’s upcoming 65th anniversary celebrations. According to James McCrave from Marian Park, Dundalk the idea for the committee formed after an organised clean-up of the area. “Two elderly residents went around the doors and asked everyone to do a clean-up around the street,” said James, who is Treasurer on the committee. “Fifteen residents came out to give us a hand. We got great praise from people for our work and we decided it might be a good idea to set up a residents’ group. “Some people weren’t in favour of it saying we don’t need it but a lot of people were for it after we did the clean-ups” James added: “Myself and Councillor Sean

Marian Park Residents Committee will celebrate the estate’s 65th anniversary later this year. Kelly set up a residents’ WhatsApp group that over 80 people joined. “We share anything that’s going on in the estate such as clean-ups and the like. Cllr Kelly is also helping an elderly man to get on a list for new windows that are badly needed. “It’s great for the community to have a WhatsApp group and a residents’ committee. We set up the GoFundMe page fundraiser to help with our plans for the area.”

The Marian Park Residents Committee, is a new non-profit organisation that has been recently established in Dundalk. It’s mission is to make a positive impact in the community by providing high-quality activities that benefit all the residents of the estate and surrounding areas. “We kindly request that you consider supporting our committee by making a donation to our funds. Your con-

tribution would help us to expand and enhance our community spirit,” said James. The committee is planning to organise a few events for Marian Park’s upcoming 65th anniversary in September. “We are going to have a family fun day maybe around the 8th September and later in the month we will have another event in the Lisdoo for everyone which is booked on September 20,” he said.

“There are a couple of other sporting events we are working on too, which will hopefully go ahead.” The Marian Park Resdidents’ Committee is planning to keep its GoFundMe page open until the first week of February. For more information or to donate please visit: Fundraiser by James Mc crave : Building a better community and a better future. (gofundme.com).

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024 By Mihaela Georgieva STUDENTS from Dundalk schools met with great success at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024. A sixth year student of Dundalk Grammar School, under the supervision of science teacher Shane Lynch, received two awards for his project, which demonstrates outstanding innovation in the field of technology. Solomon Doyle was awarded the Senior Individual Award in the technology category.and an AMD special award. Solomon was recognised for his excellent work in the development of a diagnosis tool for skin lesions titled: “DermAI: A novel approach to the mitigation of algorithmic bias with CNN-based skin lesion classification.” He has developed and presented an app, based on an artificial intelligence mechanism which can successfully diagnose skin lesions as benign or malignant and therefore aid in early prognosis. His research and development brought him in contact with the global dermatologist community, who were impressed by the generative ability of his app, titled DermAI. His software artificially generated images, which were able to fool experienced dermatologists into believing that they are real images in 89% of the cases. He also reached out to concerned people who had yet to see a dermatologist regarding a skin lesion. They trialled the app, and many of whom reported back after diagnosis gave glowing feedback highlighting how effective and advanced Solomon’s work has been. Meanwhile, there was also joy for students from St. Vincent’s Secondary School Dundalk. This year is the 17th year St. Vin-

Solomon Doyle from Dundalk Grammar School. cent’s have exhibited at the BTYSTE, under the supervision of Mr. White and the Science Department. “ We are proud of all the girls who entered the BT Young Scientist this year. We are very pleased to announce that the entry by Moya O’Neill, Mia Gogarty and Jane McGee’s project on ‘Testing which kind of chocolate has the most detrimental effect on your singing voice’ was awarded a Display Award at the exhibition, in the Health & Wellbeing category,” stated a spokesperson for the school.

The four groups who qualified for the exhibition this year, all thoroughly enjoyed the experience of the arena and extra-curricular activities on offer over the four days. Sarah McDonnell, Eimear Fennessy and Nicole Keogh’s entry titled “Do homing pigeons respond to different coloured bird feed?” aims to discover which colors of bird seeds attract pigeons the most. “Liar! Liar! Pants on Fire!” is a project by Julia Van Coller and Dearbhla Rooney which aims to investigate if people conceal their true feelings about immigration us- Moya O’Neill, Mia Gogarty and Jane McGee from St Vincent’s Secondary School. ing a polygraph test. Dearbhla McKenna, Erin Finegan and Erin Roe created an improved artificial version of the “helicopter seed” produced by acer pseudoplatanus, by investigating the aerodynamics of the samaras or “helicopter seeds”. Their aim was to invent a better version of the “helicopter seed” which would improve seed dispersal. Moya O’Neill, Mia Gogarty and Jane McGee’s project titled “Testing which kind of chocolate has the most detrimental effect on your singing voice” earned the girls a Display Award at the exhibition, in the Ryan McLoughlin Smith, Fionnuala Johnston and Luke Matthews from Colaiste Ris. Health and Wellbeing Category. Coláiste Rís were represented by Fionnuala Johnston, Ryan McLoughlin Smith and Luke Matthews whose well received project was titled “To Investigate Noise Pollution and Cheaper Ways to Integrate Sound Proofing Methods into already Existing Buildings” Last but not least, Coláiste Chú Chulainn’s Lorcán Garvin represented his school with a project to determine ‘Which beach sand in Co. Louth has the most microplastics?’ He gathered samples from six local beaches and presented his findings to a very impressed judging panel. Lorcan Garvin from Colaiste Chu Chulainn.

Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

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Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

Bee-keeping for beginners

OPEN night for ‘Beekeeping for Beginners’. Course introduction. The course begins at 7:30pm on 25th January in the Teagasc Centre, Dublin Road, Dundalk. Eircode A91PVW4.

Kitchens & Bedrooms

Wheelie Bins

FERGAL MARRY KITCHENS

AA meeting

ALCOHOLICS Anonymous County Louth Groups are holding an Open Public Meeting in The Glenside Hotel, Dublin Road, Drogheda on Wednesday 24th January at 8.30pm. Speakers from: AA. AlANON and a counsellor in alcoholic issues.

Artisans Dundalk exhibition

ARTISANS Dundalk invite you to attend their upcoming exhibition ‘Brigid: Colours of Tradition next Friday 26th of January at 7pm in Carroll Meade Hall, Dundalk, A91v8K0. The exhibition will showcase beautiful displays of St Brigid paintings as part of the Brigid 1500 celebrations. There will be musical performances and guest speakers on the day. There will also be a ‘Try it out’ session and keepsakes. Refreshments served. Warm welcome to all.

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BRIGID 1500 Workshop – Bridog Dolls Workshop for Adults: A Brigid 1500 – Bridog Dolls Workshop for adults with Shauna Swords is taking place in Dundalk Library on Friday 19th January at 2:00pm4:30pm. Places are limited and booking is essential. Please call 0429353190 to book your place. Brigid 1500 Workshop - Floral Watercolour “Spring Flowers” Workshop for Children: A Brigid 1500 - Floral Watercolour Workshop “Spring Flowers” for children with Artist Caoimhe O’Dwyer is taking place in Dundalk Library on Saturday 20th January at 10:00am-12:00 noon. Suitable for children aged 8-12 years and all children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event. Places are limited and booking is essential. Please call 0429353190 to book your child’s place. Brigid 1500 Workshop - Adult Quilling & Paper Workshop for Adults: A Brigid 1500 - Adult Quilling & Paper Workshop for adults with Visual Artist Vivienne Byrne is taking place in Dundalk Library on Wednesday 24th January at 10:00am-12:00 noon. In an introduction to paper quilling, participants will design their own patch for St. Brigid’s Cloak which can be part of or attached to a St. Brigid’s day card. Places are limited and booking is essential. Please call 0429353190 to book your place. Responsible Dog Ownership with Catherine Keating from the Dog Pound: Join us in Dundalk Library for a fascinating information and Q&A session on “Responsible Dog Ownership” with Catherine Keating from the Dog Pound. Taking place on Friday 26th January at 2:30pm. Suitable for adults and children. All are welcome to attend, there is no booking required, but all children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event.

“Little Book at Bedtime”

LOUTH Library Service are inviting all families with children aged 4 year and under to join the library and each child will receive a bedtime story book to take home and keep, together with a wallet and library membership card. One free book is available for each child aged 4 years and under and titles are available in both Irish and English. Parents and guardians will also receive a ‘Bedtime reading tips’ leaflet with lots of advice on the benefits of reading to children at bedtime. ‘Through the Little Book at Bedtime initiative, books are specifically intended to be given directly to children and families, to empower them, encourage their reading and introduce them to the library and library membership if they are not already members. The gifting of books ensures that babies and young children will grow up with books in their home but signing them up to free library membership is key to ensuring they have a lifetime of access to books’, said Amanda Branigan, Acting County Librarian. Little Book at Bedtime is a collaboration between libraries, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as part of the government ‘First 5’ Strategy. Little Book at Bedtime FREE book for 4 year olds and under can be collected at Louth Library Service: Dundalk Library, Roden Place, Dundalk, A91 RC44 Drogheda Library, Stockwell Lane, Drogheda, A92 PY20 Ardee Library, Market Square, Ardee, A92 XH22 Carlingford Library, Newry Street, Carlingford, A91 N226 Dunleer Library, Station Road, Dunleer, A92 W322 For further information email: Libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie

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Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM

DOYLE Stephen 1st ANNIVERSARY First anniversary of Stephen Doyle, late of Market Street, Dundalk and previously Halpin Terrace, Drogheda, which occurs on 20th January. He is deeply missed by his loving partner Robbie; his brothers, nephews and nieces, cousins and friends. Beautiful memories, Are treasured ever, Of Happy days, When we were together. —Love you forever.

IN MEMORIAM

MARTIN Geraldine 3rd Anniversary Geraldine Martin, late of Mount Avenue, Dundalk, whose 3rd anniversary occurs on 19th January. Mum, thank you for always being a positive force in all our lives. We miss you always. —From your loving family. Geraldine’s Anniversary Mass will be held, jointly with husband Brendan’s, on Sunday 10th March (Mother’s Day)

NOVENA

NOVENA TO 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 FAGAN merciful eyes, it will become Brendan your favour, not mine. Amen. 17th ANNIVERSARY Seventeen years gone on 18th Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will January. be granted. (Never known to Much loved never forgotten. fail). A.D. —From all your family

IN MEMORIAM

QUINN Martin 7th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of my dad, late of Cuchulainn Terrace, Dundalk, who died on 16th January, 2017. My Heart is full of memories, Of which I would not trade, Memories that fill my thoughts each and everyday. I loved you then, I love you still, Love never goes away, But, what I wouldn’t give, If we could have just one more day. —Remembered by Olga, Leah, Mark and extended family.

Local folk orchestra group celebrate launch of new album A LOCAL Youth Folk Orchestra called Nos Nua celebrated the launch of its album called Causeway on Friday, January 5. The launch of the album by the Dundalkbased young musicians took place at St Joseph’s GFC, Dromiskin at 7pm. Causeway was composed in collaboration with multi award-winning Scottish musician Mohsen Amini. The theme for the album was inspired by the story of the Giant’s Causeway, and celebrates the cultural connections between Scotland and Ireland. It comprises ten movements which tell the story of the encounter between two giants, Irish giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill and Scottish giant Benandonner along with Fionn’s wife Úna.

Local Youth Folk Orchestra band Nos Nua launched new album ‘Causeway’ last week at St Joseph’s GFC, Dromiskin Young musicians from across counties Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Cavan, Dublin, Armagh, Down and Fermanagh contribute to Nos Nua. Initially, the project was funded by the Arts Council of Ireland, through the Young Ensemble Scheme. The audio recording has been funded through the Creativity and Collaboration Fund, which is co-funded by

Music Generation/Arts Council and the Department of Education. Carolan and Peter Baldwin recorded the album at Black Mountain Studios and Andrea Gobbi at GloWorm Recording Studios. It was produced by Mohsen Amini. Nós Nua musicians are joined on the recording by Mohsen and by Mohsen’s bandmate Benedict Morris (Talisk).

The members are also joined by local musicians, orchestra directors, Kay Webster and Deirdre Ní Bhuachalla and mentors Conal Duffy and Kerrianne McArdle. Causeway, the album by Nos Nua, is due to be available for purchase online in early 2024. For more details please visit Nos Nua’s Facebook page.

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS County Louth Groups are holding an Open Public Meeting in The Glenside Hotel, Dublin Road, Drogheda on Wednesday 24th January at 8.30pm. Speakers from: AA. AlANON and a counsellor in Alcoholic issues.

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. 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. 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.

GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086109-7358. 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 repair Clocks. 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, Gutters, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048. MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 089-4016728. 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. 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. POWER WASHING SERVICES—Winter appointments still available with Blackrock Power Washing. Get your patios cleaned before Christmas! Call Brian Minogue on 087 965 4044. MAN WITH A VAN available for Garage, House and Garden clearance. Furniture removals, also Power washing and interior and exterior painting. Tel Brian 087 7558506. 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. 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 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. “PARENTING WITH MAISIE”—Learn tools to guide your child to happiness, success, high self-esteem and assertiveness in the 21st century. This hugely successful ten week programme provides insight to how best understand all human behaviour and equips us to deal with challenging situations. It begins Wednesday 24th January at 7:30pm. For details please phone Maisie on 087 2100620. 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, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djk-creations.com. “KNOW THYSELF”—Break out of the box your personality keeps you in! Personal development through the Enneagram. This ten week programme begins Thursday 25th January at 7:30pm. For details please phone Maisie on 087 2100620. FRENCH GRINDS AVAILABLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340. FRENCH/SPANISH GRINDS available in Dundalk. Experienced examiner and teacher. Email—sophiep@gcdd.ie. TONY HUMPHREYS—“Effective Parenting of ‘Self’ and Children”. This course focuses on personal development, improving family relationships and developing your parenting skills. This hugely successful programme is facilitated by Maisie Mc Guinness. For details please phone 087 2100620.

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Dundalk Leader 17th January 2024

Sheridan calls for home owners in rural areas to avail of new brown bin regulations LOCAL Councillor John Sheridan has called on rural home owners to avail of new rules meaning they must be offered a brown bin waste collection service. “Since the start of the new year, waste companies are required to offer all residents the option of a brown bin in addition to their black bin and green bin. The brown bin is for food and light garden waste to be composted and reused instead of being included with black bin waste. “This issue has been raised with me in quite a number of rural areas in recent years. Just like the introduction of green bins, brown bins have been a huge success to date in urban towns and villages and its only right that brown bins are available in our rural areas too. I would encourage people especially in rural areas to get in touch with waste providers and order a brown bin now. “Having looked into the mat-

Cllr. John Sheridan ter, I do understand it may take a few months for waste companies to fully roll out the new service but I would encourage residents to contact companies now. There may be practical issues in coming weeks like actual delivery of the brown bin, delivery of the caddybin which you keep in your kitchen for food peelings and left over food waste. Hopefully any issues

in local areas can be ironed out quite quickly.” “I believe from recent research of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that 21% of waste in black bins was food and garden waste, which is a huge missed opportunity. Food and garden waste can be composted and then reused in gardens. This totally cuts out unnecessary inclusion of food and garden waste going to landfill or being incinerated. In the current environment we need to be doing everything we can to reduce waste and promote recycling whether that be of dry plastics or the composting of food and garden waste. Its better for the environment all round. “All types of food and organic waste are accepted in brown bins including raw and cooked meat and fish, plate scrapings, along with fruit and vegetable peelings, food-soiled paper napkins, paper towels, pizza boxes as well as grass clippings and light garden waste.”

Lucy becomes latest member of the Holland powerlifting dynasty LUCY Holland followed in her Dad and brother’s footsteps just before Christmas as she competed in her very first powerlifting competition. Kevin Holland has been taking part in powerlifting competitions for a number of years now and in recent years his sons Jordan and Scott have followed suit with both making names for themselves on the National scene. 22 year old Jordan is now a well established and highly respected powerlifter on the national and international circuit having won national championships and broken world records while Scott burst on to the scene last year by winning gold in the U15 section of the 2022 nationals when just twelve years old. Having previously cheered her brothers on from the sidelines, fifteen year old Lucy has now decided to enter the lion’s den and her debut competition in the AIPO Charity event in Limerick could not have gone much better

Lucy Holland in action at her debut competition in Limerick last month. with the Coláiste Chú Chulainn student winning the T1 section in the U16 category with a raw squat of 70kgs, 35kgs on the bench and 90kgs on deadlift for a total of 195kgs. She set four new national records on the day and went 9 for 9 on her lifts with plenty more left in the tank, especially for squat and deadlift. She was coached by her brother Jordan (Jay) for the competiton and his experience helped ensure he called her numbers perfectly. Her next competition will take place in March at the Nationals and she is hopeful of making the Irish team with her brothers Jordan

and Scott. Meanwhile Lucy’s younger brother Scott also enjoyed a great result in Limerick with a 130kg squat, 72.5kg bench and a massive 140kg deadlift to win the under 16, 67.5kg category. He narrowly missed out on a 140kg squat but it wasn’t there on the day for him. Scott went 8 for 9 with his lifts and again he was coached by his brother Jordan who called his numbers perfectly. Scott did so well he finished 2nd overall in the U19 category which was an amazement achievement considering he is only 14 years old. He will compete in March at the Nationals with brother

Jordan and sister Lucy and he is hoping to make the Irish team for a third time. The AWPC World Championships are in Ireland in 2024 and in those championships we could potentially see four Holland’s competing with Kevin, Jordan, Scott and Lucy all hopeful of making the Irish team. The Holland’s would like to thank Ruairí McCann for all his help during preparation for the Limerick event as well as Ma Brady’s, Megapump, Goldstar Jewellers and Joe’s Shop for all their support over the years with Jordan, Scott and Lucy.

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