20-12-2023

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER

Wednesday, 20th December, 2023. Vol. 16, Issue 51 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

A ‘Souper’ effort to help those in need Tel: 042 932 0888. | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Tamara O’Connell

THE season of goodwill is upon us and the Dundalk community has responded to the call to help those less fortunate by donating very generously to St Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen. The

soup kitchen operate all year round but are particularly busy at this time of year with clients getting an extra food bag for the Festive period.

Schoolchildren, businesses and kindhearted people in the local community have been leaving boxes and bags

St Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen thank local community for helping less fortunate this Christmas

full of food into the old Accord building to the left of St Patrick’s Cathedral throughout December to help out those less fortunate.

THE volunteers at St Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen have thanked the people of Dundalk and the surround-

ing areas for their generosity throughout the year.

Between 120 and 130 people from all over Co Louth use the popular service on a regular basis, according to St Patrick’s Parish Soup Kitchen volunteer Anne Kavanagh.

Continued on Page 2

Faughart CNS held a Kindness ceremony earlier this month where they donated Nancy Neacy and James Muckian (Realt na Mara Student a van full of food boxes to St Patrick’s Parish Soup KItchen.

Council) helped organise a collection for the local soup kitchen.

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‘Souper’ effort to help those in need Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

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From Page 1 very basic. Clients got “The Soup Kitchen tea, beans on toast and started around 21 years soup,” she said. ago. Initially, it was “One of the volun-

teers, Michael Finan has been there since the beginning and some members of the Defence Forces.

“They felt there was a need in the town and over the years its grown and is operating seven days per week.”

People who use the service can get a hot dinner on Mondays to Saturdays from 7pm to 8pm, and on Sundays from 5pm to 6pm.

“It’s all run by volunteers. We do the Soup Kitchen and food parcels. I’m more involved in the food parcels,” said Anne.

“We give out food parcels every Friday from 10am to 11am. We are in the old Accord building to the left of St Patrick’s Cathedral. It has glass frontage and faces onto Roden Place.

“Clients get one bag every week and an extra bag at Christmas. There

Volunteers at St Patrick’s Soup KItchen. are nearly 30 volunteers and we are always looking for more volunteers.”

She added: “There’s a rota. Volunteers have to be garda vetted and they are also vetted by the Armagh Diocese, so there is a double vetting in a sense.

“I got into it because I grew up alongside Rose Bailey, another volunteer. I’ve been doing it for nearly six years.

“The food parcels stopped for a time during the pandemic but we got it going again and took precautions.”

Anne continued: “Only for the people of Dundalk, St Patrick’s Soup Kitchen and the food parcels wouldn’t be still going.

“Everything is donated from local businesses or local people. We are also going to do a bucket collection on 30 December around town to raise funds.

“We work to a budget and try to get a bargain.

The Soup Kitchen only closes New Year’s Eve because it is hard to get volunteers that day.”

If anyone would like to volunteer, please call the Parochial House on 042-9334648 and give your details.

Alternatively, contact a volunteer and pass your information on to them and the group’s safety officer will get in touch with you.

According to Anne, the service’s clients live all over Co Louth,

from places including Omeath, Ravensdale, Dundalk and Ardee.

“It’s a very diverse group. Some are local people and others have moved here from other countries,” she said.

“Some people are Ukrainian and there are also some other nationalities. It is getting tougher for people with the cost-of-living crisis.

“This Christmas, we have also donated €30 worth of Shop Local vouchers to clients in addition to the food parcels.”

She concluded: “Personally, I find volunteering great. I get great satisfaction out of it and it has been very beneficial to me too.

“It’s something to focus on. We all have busy lives and family but it’s a good feeling to be able to help others.

“We would all like to thank everyone in Dundalk who has helped us over the years either by volunteering and by donating. We can’t thank the businesses, schools and people enough.”

Today (Wednesday 20th) is the final day this year that food parcels will be handed out but the service will resume on Friday January 5th.

Louth Sinn Féin hold conventions for 2024 Council Elections LOUTH Sinn Féin has formally selected eight candidates for the Dundalk South and Dundalk Carlingford areas for the 2024 Local Council elections to be held in June next year.

In Dundalk South sitting councillor Kevin Meenan will have three running mates facing election for the first time. They are Aideen Smith, Jimmy Myers and Sionainn McCann.

In the Dundalk Carlingford constituency the party are also running four candidates.

Joining Cllr Antóin Watters will be Omeath woman Fiona Mhic Conchoille and mother and son team, Kathleen Byrne and Seán Ó Broin.

Local TD Ruairí Ó Murchú chaired the proceedings on Tuesday evening held in a packed room at the Fairways Hotel. He paid tribute to the two out-going councillors Tomás Sharkey and Edel Corrigan and wished them well in the future.

Speaking after the convention, Council

group leader Kevin Meenan said “we have a strong team in Dundalk and we are seeking to expand that team to effect change here at local level, change that has been denied to people by successive government parties. Sinn Féin is consistent in our representation and are a voice to those who feel they are not being heard. We want people to know that ‘we hear you’ and we need to get a bigger team into the council to put an end to the ‘pact system’ and to deliver equality and real meaningful politics.

“I want to wish all our new candidates well, they are facing the electorate for the first time but they all bring fresh ideas and talents to the table and I look forward to working with them.”

Cllr Tom Cunningham was selected for Drogheda Rural and Cllr Joanna Byrne will be joined by newcomer Laura Clinton in Drogheda Urban.

All selected candidate’s names will now be sent to the Party to

be ratified.

Tomás Sharkey who has been a Sinn Fein councillor for two decades told the Dundalk Leader that he felt the time was right to wrap up his time in the council chamber and pleaded with the next council to stand firm against the rise of racism.

“I have enjoyed my 20 years and feel it is right to wrap up my time as a Sinn Féin councillor in 2024. Politics and public office now is different to 2003. I am proud that the N53 is nearly completed and regret not being able to prevent the closure of Dundalk’s A&E. I regret the lost family and friend time due to meetings campaigns and calls on mine and their time. But I have made good friends through the council chamber.

“I hope that the next council stands firm against the rise of racism. They must also make hard decisions and give strong leadership in tackling climate change,” warned Tomás.

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

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CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES for the Dun Dealgan Pastoral Area

ST PATRICK’S PARISH

THE MARIST

Saturday, Dec 23rd 7pm Eucharist – Vigil of 4th Sunday of Advent Christmas Eve 7am & 10am Sunday Eucharist 7pm Christmas Eve Eucharist Christmas Day 7am & 10am Eucharist Tuesday, Dec 26th to Saturday, Dec 30th No 7am Eucharist

ST PATRICK’S CHURCH Christmas Eve (Vigil) 9pm – Carols 8.30pm Christmas Day 9am & 11am Carols 10.30am ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH Christmas Eve (Vigil) 8pm – Carols 7.30pm Christmas Day 8.30am, 10.30am & 12noon Confessions after each Mass beginning REDEMPTORIST CHURCH Sunday 17th to Sunday 24th Wednesday, 20th December Sacrament of Reconciliation 10am-11am and 6.30pm-7.30pm Thursday, 21st December 10am-12pm and 4pm-6pm Friday, 22nd December HOLY REDEEMER CHURCH 10am-12pm and 4pm-6pm Christmas Eve (Vigil) Saturday, 23rd December 6pm – Carols 5.30pm 10am-12pm and 4pm-6pm Christmas Day Christmas Eve 10am & 11.30am Confessions after each Mass beginning Mass: 9.30am, 11am & 12.30pm Midnight Mass at Midnight Sunday 17th to Sunday 24th preceded by Carol Singing from 11.30pm Monday, 25th December 9.30am, 11am & 12.30pm

ST JOSEPH’S

HOLY REDEEMER PARISH

HOLY FAMILY PARISH

HOLY FAMILY CHURCH Christmas Eve Children’s Mass 4pm (Vigil) 7pm – Carols 6.30pm Christmas Day 10.30am & 12noon Confessions after each Mass beginning Sunday 17th to Sunday 24th

MASSES CAN ALSO BE VIEWED VIA OUR WEBCAM IN ST JOSEPH’S, ST PATRICK’S, HOLY FAMILY, HOLY REDEEMER, ST OLIVER PLUNKETT'S AND ST FURSEY'S.

Wishing all our Parishioners a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year - Stay Safe

FRIARY CHURCH

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

HAGGARDSTOWN/ BLACKROCK

ST OLIVER PLUNKETT, BLACKROCK Christmas Eve Carols 2.30pm Mass 3pm Carols 5.30pm Mass 6pm Christmas Day Mass 12noon ST FURSEY’S, HAGGARDSTOWN Christmas Eve Carols 7pm Mass 7.30pm Christmas Day Mass 9am & 10.30am

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Trailblazer Jamie Lindon receives international Down Syndrome Futsal caps

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

“TRAILBLAZERS, you will always have that. As the first ever players with Down Syndrome to play Futsal internationally.

I am sure you are very proud, there is very few people actually in the world that actually go on and played for their country. In any type of sport and any type of football or Futsal. Amazing achievement.

We as an association is very proud of you.”

Marc Canham, FAI Director of Football on presenting the team with their international caps.

Ireland’s first national Down Syndrome Futsal team was presented with their international caps ahead of the friendly Ireland vs New Zealand game at Aviva stadium on Tuesday 21st November.

Football or All’s Paddy O’Reilly, Head coach Paul Smyth and Marc Canham met with the team and their parents.

“The awarding of a cap to an international player dates back to the 1870s and remains a symbolic gesture, as well as a prized keepsake. Therefore it was important to ensure that all players who featured for Ireland at senior level were eligible to receive this one-off cap that represents their involvement with the team.” In this instance, these caps were hard earned as Ireland’s first international Down Syndrome Futsal team travelled to Padua, Italy, in early September to participate in the

Jamie Linden from Dundalk with Marc Canham, Director of football FAI. Sport Union for Athletes with Down Syndrome (SUDS) European Championships.

The team had a jampacked week, playing 5 games in 4 days. Turkey, Italy and Portugal have been playing for at least 4 years in different international tournaments and had to stand their ground against the newcomers.

One of the stars of the team, was no other than local player Jamie Linden. Jamie’s experience in and knowledge of the game brought a certain calmness to the team during the first game. Once the team got the feel of the competition, Jamie stepped up and set the tone as defender landing him the nickname “the Hulk”. He was excellent in applying his hardearned skills. Jamie is well known in town and has been playing in various teams in Dundalk over the years.

Being first-time competitors did not leave the Irish team at a disad-

vantage reckoned Máire Hourigan, mom of Futsal player Cian Kelleher from Cork: “Our athletes demonstrated belief and strong heart and operated in a funloving way throughout the week. I am so proud of all of them and loved the cohesive way the teams bonded, dressed in their similar attire.

Memories were created, experiences were made, and our athletes led the way in style in how they handled themselves, one another, and their opponents. Truly phenomenal ambassadors. Onwards and upwards. There are no limits!”.

A number of the players selected for the squad had previous involvement in Football For All, and were very quick to adapt their skills to Futsal. This event also provided the players with the opportunity to test their skills against other players with Down Syndrome from the other nations involved.

Creating a player pathway for players with Down syndrome in Ireland from grassroots all the way through to International Level, would be the next natural step.

By getting more players with Down Syndrome playing to play Futsal (the International game is Futsal) on a regular basis will mean that the future is bright and more players can aspire to represent their country at future events.

Paul Smyth, Head coach, was delighted by the team’s performance “The players and families made huge sacrifices all through the year in preparation for the SUDS European Championships. This enabled the team to match more established countries with outstanding performances throughout the tournament.

On behalf of the coaching team, Brendan Corish, Sean Mulligan and myself, we would like to acknowledge the support of the families and supporters who got behind the team and made it such a special experience. It made us all proud to be Irish.

We would also like to recognise the endeavours of those pioneers who worked tirelessly on this project, the Down Syndrome Louth and Meath Branch and the unbelievable support of the communities and businesses.

It was a pleasure to be involved with this historic group of players.”

Dundalk Simon Community held an Open Day last week at their premises in Seatown House on Jocelyn St. Dundalk Simon provide safe, supportive shelter and services to the homeless.

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John’s cookbook the perfect stocking filler

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

LOCAL man John Moore is passionate about cooking and since 2020 he has been creating wonderful cookbooks featuring all of his favourite recipes.

Once the pandemic hit, John made it his mission to produce a new cookbook, as a tribute to his late father and in order to share his favourite recipes with family and friends throughout the town.

‘During the first lockdown in the spring of 2020, John who has been attending RehabCare Quayside Resource Centre since 2001 was forced to stay at home but rather than sit around and do nothing he decided to stay positive and create a cookbook. John finds cooking relaxing and very enjoyable and with a head full of recipes for

John Moore. good healthy food he began putting together a cookbook which would late be titled ‘Home Cooking from Lavender Cottage’.

The book contains 19 healthy recipes including smoothies, soups, main courses and desserts. Since then he has gone on to write two

more cookbooks titled ‘From the Greenhouse to the Table (2021) and last year’s effort Autumn in Lavender Cottage.

John got his love of cooking from his mother Geraldine. She was chief food-taster. John made the book in memory of his father, Oliver

Moore who was originally from St Clement’s Park on the Point Road in Dundalk. Sadly John passed away in 2013.

The cookbook’s popularity has spread, and he now counts renowned chef Nevin Maguire as a fan after the celebrity chef sent John a note of congratulations as well as a signed copy of his own cookbook.

The mouth-watering books were compiled with colourful photos by local Dundalk photographer Andrew Browne and was designed and printed by GoCreate.

‘Home Cooking from Lavender Cottage’, by John Moore, is currently on sale in St. Joseph’s Redemptorist shop, Dundalk, and Roe River Books on Clanbrassil St and costs just €5.

Crosscause charity announce partnership with Orionair for rocket launch on the beach

CROSSCAUSE Charity is thrilled to announce an exhilarating partnership with OrionAir for an extraordinary Rocket Launch event set to take place on December 26, 2023, in Blackrock, Co. Louth.

This pioneering event marks a unique collaboration between CrossCause Charity, known for its impactful projects in Eastern Europe and West Africa and OrionAir a new name in aerospace innovation.

The Rocket Launch Event promises an awe inspiring display of technological prowess and charitable goodwill.

Scheduled to commence from midday till 5:00pm on December 26th, 2023 at the Blackrock beachfront, the event will feature the launch of OrionAir’s cutting-edge rocket, showcasing the culmination of scientific achievement and fostering community engagement.

“We are incredibly excited about this part-

Conor Hughes’ Crosscause charity help people in Romania and Ghana. nership with OrionAir,” said Conor Hughes, Founder CrossCause Charity. “This event symbolizes the fusion of innovation, science and luck. If we cant land on the Moon we will land on the nearest available planet subject to fuel allowance”.

Proceeds from this event will directly support our ongoing charitable projects benefiting groups with special needs abroad.

The event will offer attendees a chance to witness the rocket

launch up close providing a spectacle that combines scientific advancement along with the spirit of giving back. In addition to the launch, there will be live music, food stalls, all of the fun associated with the Crosscause St Stephens Days event which has been happening annually for over 20 years now.

Tickets for the Rocket Launch are available to buy now on Crosscause Website www.crosscause.ie and all proceeds will go towards

the Crosscause Charity funds – with purchasers also entered into a Christmas Raffle.

For more information and tickets, please visit www.crosscause. ie or their Social Channels. Founded in 2003, Crosscause is an Irish registered charity, set up by dedicated volunteers working with special needs orphans in Romania. Due to their success in the past, they have now been able to expand into Eastern Europe and West Africa.

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Ollie’s mission to clean up Blackrock Beach

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

A BLACKROCK man spent over five hours collecting rubbish from a scenic spot along the seashore on Monday, December 11.

Ollie Reilly from Clermont Manor, started the one-man clean-up at 11am and wasn’t finished until late afternoon.

Some of the rubbish found by Ollie when on his walk close to his home in Blackrock.

“It’s a place where I like to walk. Every Ollie Murphy day the high tides will wash rubbish in to the shore. It’s located beside the Louth County Council treatment facility,” said Ollie.

“You have to go to the Fane Bridge and take a left. You can’t see it from the road. It was a long day clearing all that rubbish.

“There were pallets, plastic bottles; I filled eight bags with plastic bottles. I took it upon myself to do it because I was fed up looking at it.”

Ollie added: “I love walking there. It’s very peaceful and I enjoy listening to the wild geese coming in.

“It was very satisfying to stand back after a hard day’s work and look at the place all tidied up but sadly, in time, it will come in again with the high tides.

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“I rang a chap I’m friendly with in Tidy Towns’ Dromiskin and he’s going to get the rubbish taken away.

“In addition to the eight bags of plastic bottles, there are crates, large drums, a couple of pallets and a full wheel tyre.”

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Issue of shoplifting discussed in Dáil by local shop owner

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

THE issue of shoplifting and the effects on retailers was discussed at a Dáil committee last week where Dundalk retailer Colin Fee and Louth TD Ruairí Ó Murchú interacted about the problems faced by shopkeepers.

Mr Fee, who owns forecourt stores in Dundalk and is president of the Retail Grocery Dairy and Allied Trades Association (RGDATA), was one of a number of witnesses to give evidence at the Oireachtas Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.

In his interaction with Mr Fee, Deputy Ó Murchú said Ireland has a reputation for having the ‘best shoplifters going’, when new detection technologies are being talked about, and he asked if the Dundalk store owner agreed.

Mr Fee said: ‘I do not know what other countries are like but we are a nation of cute hoors.

‘It is a problem that has always been there but it is much bigger than people realise.

People look at it as petty stuff.

Colin Fee forecourt owner in However, a large number of Dundalk. small things become a big number.

‘It is particularly seen in hos‘They start getting more ag- pital settings, where you can be gressive and that is when it dealing with very chaotic charstarts hurting – when the staff acters. A security guard will probably not take that risk and feel threatened’.

The Sinn Féin TD said he had the people at the other end are once spent a summer as a secu- probably aware of that. It is an rity guard. He said: ‘I was told issue that needs to be addressed. you do not put your hand on ‘If you go through court reanybody unless you think they ports, you will find it is the can get a six-month sentence. same names. If you break them ‘We have all seen where the down individually, they are not witnesses are dealing with a crimes that will get a person a greater level of aggression. life sentence.

‘These are probably chaotic people. When they are not busy shoplifting, they are eating tablets and whatever else. It is a wider societal issue but the witnesses have to deal with it. I am not saying there is any way to absolutely police that.

‘There needs to be some element of sanction, and chaotic circumstances need to be addressed. We also need to at least try to address it in relation to future generations.

‘Sometimes, the problem for the witnesses is they will be dealing with these people head on. We can all talk about what needs to be done in respect of intergenerational trauma, addiction and mental health issues, but it is not always pretty when you have to deal with it in your shop and it is going off on one of your staff members’.

Mr Fee said it was ‘not pretty at the coalface’. He said: ‘If you have a site in a disadvantaged area, 95% of the people are nice, law-abiding, good people.

It is just a small minority.

‘My biggest problem is that there seems to be no deterrent.

Earlier, I mentioned a guy who has four, five or six bench warrants against him. He came back in and robbed again. In fairness to the gardaí, they got him.

‘He has done us perhaps 20 times. As I said, we started reporting everything. We had five or six but he was up for other stuff in other shops as well. Two gardaí took him to another court an hour’s drive away to get him.

The judge let him out and he came back and shoplifted in our shop that night’.

??? CHRISTMAS QUIZ ???

1—What colour are mistletoe 6—In what shop on Earl St. in in a typical box of Heroes chocolates?

Dundalk did Santa Claus tap berries? his old wooden cane against 2—How do you say Merry —ANSWERS— the window during this time Christmas in Spanish? of year?

3—In the song ‘Fairytale 7—Which yellow food item of New York’ one of the would you find under the characters speaks of getting on a lucky one, presumably at icing of a Christmas cake?

8—Three of Santa’s Reindeers the horse racing. What price have the initial D. Can you was the horse? name them?

4—Who sang the song 9—How many ‘las’ are after ‘Walking in the Air’ from the the ‘fa’ in Deck the Halls? film ‘The Snowman’?

5—Where are the McCallisters 10—Are Santa’s reindeer male or female? going on holiday when they The Stinker—Can you name leave Kevin behind in Home the nine chocolate bars Alone?

1—White, 2—Feliz Navidad, 3—18/1, 4—Aled Jones, 5—Paris, France, 6—RQ O’Neills, 7—Marzipan, 8—Dasher, Dancer and Donner, 9—8, 10—Female. Male reindeer lose their antlers in November, while female reindeer keep their antlers through the winter. Most depictions of Santa’s reindeer show antlers, which means they must be female to guide his sleigh in December. The Stinker: Eclairs, Fudge, Wispa, Dairy Milk, Crunchie Bits, Double Decker (or Dinky Decker), Twirl, Dairy Milk Caramel and Cadbury’s Crème Egg.

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

The Tie Wrap Gang present St Patrick’s Scout Group 1st/2nd/5th with a cheque for €1000.

Eight other local groups also received cheques for €1000 from the supporters of Dundalk FC .

The ‘Tie Wrap Gang’ raise €9,000 for nine local groups

A GROUP of Dundalk FC supporters who call themselves the ‘Tie Wrap Gang’ have raised €9000 which they have evenly divided between nine local charities. The nine cheques were handed over to representatives of nine different charities at the bandstand in St Helena’s Park last Saturday.

The group of eighteen supporters volunteer their services and tidy Oriel Park ahead of each game which is where they got their name from.

The group were formed in September 2017 when a group of likeminded passionate Dundalk FC supporters decided to go down to an away game in Cork on the train. Unfortunately, there was a train strike that weekend, so they instead organised a bus

and from that moment ‘The Tie Wrap Gang’ were born. The group travel to every away league and cup game as well as attending all home games in Oriel Park.

On the bus journey’s they started to do a goal time competition and any profits made were kept until the end of the year before giving some money to local charities.

Tie Wrap Gang Chairman Gerry Curtis was delighted with the amount raised and thanked everybody who supported the Tie Wrap Gang in 2022.

“We raise money every year for local charities that are close to our hearts and we are delighted to be able to be in the positon to be able to give nine cheques of €1000 to North Louth Hospice, Meals on Wheels, St Mary’s Special School, Drumcar, Ma-

ria Goretti, Dundalk Arch Club 1977, Women’s Aid Dundalk, SNAP Louth, St Patrick’s Scout Group 1st/2nd/5th Louth and The Birches Alzheimers Day Care Centre in Dundalk,” stated Gerry. “It’s been a tough couple of years for everybody and especially those who rely on fundraising to keep their charities going and we are delighted to be able to help them out here today,” added Gerry.

“It’s always great to travel to all the games and we are already looking forward to going to more games next season and raising more money for local charities in 2024. Wishing all of our members and families a happy and peaceful Christmas” added Gerry on behalf of the Tie Wrap Gang.

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

Alfred Gooding, Zack Callan, Eabhaoin Mackin, Renezmae Duffy Gorman, and Varshansai Mahankali getting into the Festive spirit at Realt Na Mara’s annual Christmas Concert.

New Louth GAA chairman welcomes €1m donation from JP McManus

Sunday 17th 12.00-18.00 CHRISTMAS DAY CLOSED Monday 18th 08.30-18.00 ST. STEPHEN’S DAY CLOSED Tuesday 19th 08.30-18.00 Wednesday 27th 08.30-18.00 Wednesday 20th 08.30-18.00 Thursday 28th 08.30-18.00 08.30-18.00 Thursday 21st 08.30-19.00 Friday 29th Friday 22nd 08.00-20.00 Saturday 30th 08.00-18.00 Saturday 23rd 08.00-20.00 New Year’s Eve 10.00-17.00 Christmas Eve 08.00-18.00 NEW YEAR’S DAY CLOSED Tuesday 2nd Jan 08.30-18.00 Wednesday 3rd 08.30-18.00

THE new Louth GAA chairman Sean McClean has described the donation of €1m to the Louth GAA County board as ‘incredibly generous and most welcome’. The Hunterstown native who succeeded outgoing chairman Peter Fitzpatrick says that there haven’t been discussions as yet as to how the money will be spent but that all clubs in Louth will benefit.

Limerick businessman JP McManus is a well known supporter of Gaelic games and last week he announced he would donate €1 million to each county, to be divided between clubs across the three associations of Gaelic Games.

The funds will be given to county boards, to be divided equally between GAA, Ladies Football and Camogie clubs.

The three associations issued statements on Thursday, thanking the McManus family for

their generosity and support of Gaelic Games.

“The GAA would like to acknowledge and thank JP McManus, his wife Noreen, and their children for their incredible generosity,” the GAA’s statement read.

Describing the donation as “extremely generous’ the newly elected Louth GAA Chairman Sean McClean thanked the Limerick businessman on behalf of all involved in Louth GAA. “It is a very generous act and most welcome by everybody involved with Louth GAA. It is an unbelievable gesture from JP and it will benefit every club in all codes. This was only announced the other day so we haven’t sat down yet to discuss how we will distribute the money but we will do it fairly and make sure that every club benefits,” stated the Hunterstown Rovers club man.

Michael McNeela Branch ONE hamper winner

THE hamper winner is Caraline Donohoe from Cooley. Sincere thanks to all that supported our hamper fundraiser which raised €4800 in aid of Veterans in need.

The Michael McNeela Branch ONE wishes everyone a happy and peaceful New Year.

Jim Mc Eneaney, Branch Chairman.

Louth GAA Chairman Sean McClean has described the donation of €1m to the Louth GAA County board as ‘incredibly generous

is back in DROGHEDA, SCOTCH HALL SHOPPING CENTRE, till CHRISTMAS EVE

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REILLY Wishing All the Constituents of DUNDALK/ CARLINGFORD a Very Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year

WuXi Biologics and WuXi Vaccines employees donate over €4,000 to SVP

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

Melita Jerkovic, Georgia Bartropp, Karen Kinsella, Helen Grant SVP, Kevin Mulligan SVP, Marie Kirk, and Keith Mattison.

THE employees at WuXi Biologics and WuXi Vaccines have once again shown their commitment to the local community with their third annual Christmas appeal for the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Dundalk. Continuing their tradition of generosity, they donated over €4000 worth of food and toy vouchers this year, which will be distributed to individuals and families in the Dundalk area who need assistance.

This year’s donation follows their previous contributions, in-

cluding the generous donation of 200 winter coats in past years, showcasing the ongoing commitment of WuXi Biologics and WuXi Vaccines towards corporate social responsibility, which is truly commendable and inspiring. SVP Dundalk is providing support to families in Dundalk who are faced with difficult choices like whether to heat their homes or put food on the table.

We are grateful for companies like WuXi Biologics and WuXi Vaccines who acknowledge the

needs of our local communities and are willing to assist SVP in supporting the most vulnerable people. We express our gratitude to the staff at WuXi Biologics and WuXi Vaccines for their generous donations which will undoubtedly bring comfort to those seeking help from SVP this Christmas.

This year, SVP Dundalk plans to provide food, heating, and toy vouchers to approximately 1,100 households during Christmas.

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

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CCTV/Alarms

Antiques & Collectables

Fuel

Need Cash?

We Buy Gold, Silver, GAA & War Medals 86 CLANBRASSIL STREET, DUNDALK TELEPHONE 085 191 7815

OPEN 10.30am – 5pm MONDAY TO SATURDAY

Drain Cleaning/Septic Tanks Phone: 086 849 8882 Email: info@adcdrains.ie - www.adcdrains.ie

Blinds

• Septic Tank Cleaning • Drain Cleaning • CCTV Drain Surveys • High Pressure Water Jetting

Kitchens & Bedrooms

FERGAL MARRY KITCHENS

• Drain Repairs

Forklifts Kitchens Bedroom Units Sliderobes & Feature walls TV Units

fergalmarrykitchens@gmail.com / 087 276 5866

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

17

NEWS

in Brief

Walking Tour

Wheelie Bins

SEEK Urban Arts are hosting a 90-minute mural walking tour at 2pm on Thursday 28th of December departing from in front of Dundalk Tourist Office at Market Square. It is a great opportunity to discover the unique stories behind some of the amazing murals created in Dundalk over the past 5 years. Tickets are €6 and are available on Eventbrite or directly from Dundalk Tourist Office. Pre-booking is essential as places are limited, please contact 0429352111 with any enquiries.

Decade Of Centenaries

Windows

Full Range of Colours • Extensive Range of Designs • Irish Made Fully Certified • 'A' Rated Security Windows & Doors

ALL OUR PRODUCTS ARE AS STANDARD

Senator Windows Dundalk

OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri 9- 5 & Sat 10-2

After hours by appointment

SINESS TOWN IN BU WN KEEP YOUR TO BUSINESS IN KEEP YOUR For a free no obligation quotation Callsave: 1850 774455 Tel. 042 9333513 Fax. 042 9333514 Web: www.senatorwindows.ie Email. senatordundalk@gmail.com Or Visit our Showrooms on Ard Easmuinn Road, Dundalk.

Louth County Council Library Service were delighted to host a ‘Decade of Centenaries’ event, with the launch of ‘Local Context and Connection: An Exhibition’ at Dundalk Library on December 6th.

Nine topics were chosen, seeking to provide a representative view of the entirety of Louth at that time.

The exhibition presents information on these topics, including: the ambush at Rockmarshall in north Louth, the Dundalk jail break, the Boyne Obelisk, the Great War, the bombardment of Millmount, Cumann na mBan: Ardee Battalion, Coastguards, Courthouses, and Railways.

The exhibition will remain in Dundalk library until Friday 2nd February and is available to view during library opening times.

Living Well Programme

Living Well is a free group programme for adults living with any long-term or chronic condition. It takes place over six weekly workshops (6 x 2.5 hours) – either online or in-person.

It is delivered by trained leaders, most of whom are also living with a long-term health condition.

You will develop self-management skills and confidence to live well with your health conditions. You will also meet other people who live with long-term health conditions and learn from each other’s experiences.

Upcoming Living Well Programmes: Online Wed 17th January, Wed 28th February, 10:30am - 1:00pm.

Dundalk Library, Tue 23rd January, Tues 27th February, 1:30pm – 4:00pm.

Online Wed 24th January, Wed 6th March, 2.30pm - 5:00pm.

Kells Family Resource Centre, Thurs 25th January, Thurs 28th March, 2:00pm - 4:30pm. *Long-term health conditions include (but are not limited to) COPD, asthma, diabetes, stroke, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis (MS), arthritis, cancer, Crohn’s disease, chronic pain and depression. To book your place contact: Aine McNamee – Living Well Coordinator, aine.mcnamee@hse. ie / 041 6850676 or 087 1140371; Elaine Duffy – Living Well Administrator, elaine.duffy5@hse.ie / 041 6860710 or 087 4308735, www. hse.ie/LivingWell.

WE WANT TO HEAR IT GOT A Phone: 0429320888 STORY? Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

18

FAMILY NOTICES IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

NOVENA

ARTICLES FOR SALE

SPECIAL SERVICES

SITUATIONS VACANT

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.

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.

JEWELLERY PARTIES—Top commissions paid, contact Alan, Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Complex, Dundalk. Tel 042 9339478 Mob 087 3898908 or Email goldstarjewellersdundalk@gmail.com.

POWER WASHING SERVICES—Winter appointments still available with Blackrock Power Washing. Get your patios cleaned before Christmas! Call Brian Minogue on 087 965 4044.

CLIENT CENTERED COUNSELLOR—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas.

For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.

HOUSE CLEANER NEEDED—In Dundalk.

General cleaning of House. 3 bedroom house. Contact 0873419480.

SPECIAL SERVICES CALLAN Kathleen 4th ANNIVERSARY Fourth anniversary of dear Kathleen Callan, late of Belfry Drive, Dundalk.

—Loved and missed by husband John; daughter Clare; sons Aidan, Shane, Jason and Korey; also grandchildren Millie and James.

Anniversary Mass Saturday 30th December at 6.30pm in Redemptorist Church CALLAN Fourth anniversary of our much loved and missed friend Kathleen Callan.

—Love and missed always, Aenia and Moira. X.

FAGAN Philomena 3rd ANNIVERSARY In memory of Philomena Fagan, late of Willowdale, Bay Estate, whose third anniversary occurs on December 25th.

I close my eyes and see your face smiling at me You tell me you are never far away and that we will meet again some day.

I ask if you could stay awhile I miss your laugh I miss your smile Then you whisper sweetly into my ear I never leave you, I’m always here.

—From your loving family, missing you always. X. Anniversary Mass St. Stephen’s Day 9.30am in The Redemptorist Church.

COBURN In loving memory of our dear parents, Brendan and Marie Coburn and also our sister Bernadette Breen, late of St Mary’s Road, Dundalk. RIP. We your family miss you, That is plain to see, We wanted so much to keep ye, But God willed it not to be.

Now ye are in God’s keeping, You suffer no more pain, So, dear God, take care of them, Until we meet again.

Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

—Always remembered, especially at this time of the year, by your loving family.

Happy Christmas. X.

WEEKLY

DEADLINE

FOR FAMILY NOTICES

is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication.

Contact Lorna

LAWLOR Christopher 10th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Christopher Lawlor, late of Mountain View Cresent and Old Bridge Toberona, on his 10th Anniversary on the 26th December.

SON Though your smile is gone forever And your hand we cannot touch We have so many memories of the One we loved so much.

Your memory is our keepsake With which we’ll never part God has you in his keeping And we have you in our hearts.

—Sadly missed by Briege and John.

DAD It’s hard to believe you’re No longer here.

We think of you You feel so near In some small way Every single day Memories of you Come our way.

—Love always Amy, Lee and Shay.

BROTHER Deep in the hearts lies a picture Of a loved-one laid to rest In memories frame we keep it Because he was one of the best.

—Always loved and remembered Aiden, John, Therese and Kevin.

PARTNER Deep in my heart You will always stay.

Loved and remembered every day.

—Love always Milly.

Tel 042 9320888.

New calendars featuring fantastic local photos out now THE 2024 Dundalk Calendar which has been put together by local photographer Darren Rafferty is on sale now with €5 from each sale going towards SOSAD. There is also a Cooley Calendar and a Blackrock Calendar on sale this year as well.

The Dundalk calendar features twelve stunning seasonal photos of our great wee town. From a snow covered Courthouse to the Christmas Tree at the Square, this calendar shows the very

best of what Dundalk has to offer. The calendar also takes a look back at some local history with 12 fantastic facts about the town.

They are available

in Mc Evoys, Grants, Sloanes, River Roe Books, Arthurs, Joes, Mace, SuperValu, Centra, Londis, Crafty Rock, Mc Crystals, Crillys, Sheelans, Barrys, Mul-

ligans, Valentines, 23 Seats, Home Bakery and Coffeetime €5 from each sale is donated to SOSAD Dundalk.

CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-225-9799.

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.

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.

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work - marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087387-8995 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 085-840-7707.

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 086607-1702.

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.

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.

GW PAINTING and Decorating. No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

PERSONAL EASY-GOING country lad, mid 50s with GSOH seeks like-minded female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/ talks and to share the simple things in life. Tel 0868220403.

CLASSES & COURSES GET FIT the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm—10pm, no partner required. First wedding dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING BODHRAN— For adults & children aged 8 years upwards.

One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

10 CLASSES AIKIDO beginner course starts Monday 8th January in Blackrock Community Centre. Classes Monday & Wednesday—6.30-8pm. Turn BLACK BELT in 5 years.

Inquiry—087 368 20 70.

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.

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

AIKIDO FOR KIDS—new 10 weeks beginner course starting 10th January in Blackrock Community Centre. Classes Wednesday 5.30-6.30pm. Inquiry 087 368 20 70.

FRENCH/SPANISH GRINDS available in Dundalk. Experienced examiner and teacher.

Email sophiep@gcdd.ie.

SITUATIONS WANTED RETIRED AND RELIABLE person seeks light part-time work. Full clean driving licence.

0863141719.

PLANNING NOTICES LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Noel and Valerie Mac Anulty, intend to apply for permission for development at 36 Gort Na Glaise, Sandy Lane, Blackrock, Co. Louth, A9PK28. The development will consist of a single storey extension to the side of existing semi-detached two storey dwelling and all associated and ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Alex & Weronika Whately, intend to apply for full planning permission for development at Mounthamilton, Ardee Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Development will consist of alterations to existing dwelling to include demolition of existing rear extension, reroofing, rooflights, external wall insulation & amendments to fenestration along with proposed new single-storey extension to rear of existing dwelling, domestic garage and all associated site development works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Louth County Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—I, Sean Doherty, intend to apply for retention and completion of a development consisting of the change of use of ancillary storage area at the former Amber Night Club to facilitate the addition of 1no apartment, to the 6no. previously granted under Planning Ref No.s 20/156 & 22/984 at the former Amber Night Club, Earl Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Retention of alterations to original windows on the eastern alleyway elevation. The building forms part of a protected structure under the current Louth County Development Plan - Record of Protected Structure Ref No. D192. Note, no alterations to the listed / protected façade is proposed or envisioned at The premises formally known as Amber Night Club, Earl Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. C/o Bernard Dowdall - MRIAI - Architect—Carrickedmond, Kilcurry, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel. (042) 9429558; (087) 6657148; E-mail - bernard@ dowdallarchitects.ie.

De La Salle students visit Leinster House

Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023

MS McBREEN’S 3rd year CSPE class took an eagerly awaited trip to Leinster House today.

Senator John Mc Gahon facilitated the visit.

Students sat in on part of the morning session in the Dáil. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine of Ireland, Charlie Mc Conalogue was speaking on the effect of certain policies on fishing communities in Donegal.

Students were then taken through taken through the historic portrait gallery of former Taoisigh, where we met a past pupil of De La Salle, TD Ruairí Ó’Murchú.

19

Poetry Corner

Dundalk’s Comfort n Joy Senator John McGahon facilitated a visit to Leinster House for pupils of his old school the De La Salle last week. The 3rd year CSPE class were accompanied by their teacher Ms McBreen.

The next part of the trip was to sit in on a session of the Seanad where we listened to Senator Michael Mc Dowell speak passionately on the need for Joe Biden and America to intervene in Gaza.

Anyone watching Oireachtas TV today would have seen some well behaved De La Salle students in the gallery!

Senator John Mc Gahon then met us and took us into a state reception

room where he asked the boys questions about issues affecting their lives.

He also gave a really interesting insight into the daily life of a politician. After looking at Poblacht Na hEireann

it was time for a quick visit to the Natural History Museum and a game of football in Merrion Square! Thanks to Senator John Mc Gahon for fitting us in to his busy schedule!

I bid you Merry Christmas To you so far away The snow it lies on Seatown And Santa’s on his way The midnight bells are calling For people just to pray Oh for tiding of comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh for tidings of comfort and joy

Oriel Wind Farm to Seek Planning Early Next Year Ted Kieran gave us turkey ORIEL Wind Farm is continuing to progress its plans for an offshore wind farm in the North Irish Sea and intends to apply for planning permission for the project to An Bord Pleanála early next year.

The proposed wind farm will be located off the Co Louth coast and will have a generating capacity of up to 375 megawatts (MW), which is the equivalent of the energy used to power about 300,000

HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.

042 9331515/086 2559201

homes. Oriel, which is being developed

by Parkwind and ESB, is one of the first Irish offshore wind farms to be planned.

While Oriel did not secure a contract under the Offshore Renewable Energy Support Scheme auction earlier this year, the development of the project has continued apace during the past six months.

The planning process is expected to take up to 12 months and if successful,

construction of the Oriel wind farm could begin in 2026 and become operational by 2027. Information on the proposed project is available at www.orielwindfarm.ie.

The project also has a public information office in Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and if you would like to meet with the project team this can be arranged through the website or by calling (01) 963 0313.

In Wood’s we got our tree A feast laid out for a king But also you and me To celebrate the birth of Christ The King of kings you see He brings tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy Clanbrassil is so colourful Park Street is filled with light The Square it is all a twinkling The courthouse’s shining bright In Nicolas’s Church the baby And choir’s singing Christ With tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy When midnight mass is over My feet they crunch the snow

Every house is twinkling No matter where I go But home is where my heart it lies As it is all aglow With tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh with tidings of comfort and joy Mollie has the cooking done For this the Christmas Day But it’s you I’m thinking of So very far away In foreign lands or prisons Wherever you did stray I send you comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy.

—Dominic McKevitt.

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Dundalk Leader 20th December 2023