24-01-2024 by Peter Kierans

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Dundalk to shine brightly for Brigid Page xx

Major expansion at DkIT approved

Dundalk Rotary Club donate to local charities

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Page 15

Wednesday, 24th January, 2024. Vol. 17, Issue 4 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888. | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Tributes for woman killed in tragic crash By Tamara O’Connell A 25-YEAR-OLD woman suffered fatal injuries in the early hours of Monday morning when the vehicle she was travelling in struck a tree at Carnalough, close to Louth Village. The woman named locally as Kate Keenan from Knockbridge was travelling as a passenger in a van which struck a tree at approximately 1:50am during Storm Isha which battered the country on Sunday evening. Many tributes were paid online to Kate from friends ,reflecting how popular she was and the sense of grief that has decended on the local community following her

death. A statement from the Gardaí confirmed a woman in her 20’s had died at the scene of the crash and that a second passenger was being treated in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. “Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal road traffic incident that occurred at Carnalogue in Co. Louth during the early hours of Monday morning, 22nd January 2024. “The incident occurred at approximately 1.50am when a van collided with a tree. A passenger in the van, a woman aged in her 20s, received fatal injuries and was later pronounced deceased at the scene. Continued on Page 2

Maria Doyle Cuche (right) accepts her Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad from President Michael D Higgins alongside her proud mother Eileen. See Page 6.

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Tributes paid to woman killed during storm crash

From Page 1 “A second passenger, a man in his 20s, was treated at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for injuries which are not believed

to be life-threatening. No other injuries were reported. “The woman’s body remains at the scene this morning and a technical examination will be car-

any Garda station,” read thr statement. Meanwhile Louth County Council stated that a number of trees were blown down during Storm Isha during the worst of the winds on Sunday evening. “Louth County Council responded to reports of 52 trees fallen across the county as Storm Isha tracked across the region on Sunday 21st January 2024. “Outdoor staff were deployed as storm con-

ditions took hold on Sunday evening, with over 30 calls were made to Louth County Council’s out of hours call management centre. “Crews responded to incidents across the county, cutting and removing fallen trees to make roads passable and footpaths safe. “Around 16 of these incidents were in the South Louth area, with trees down in a number of areas including Drogheda, Collon, Monaster-

boice, Dunleer. Crews also removed two large trees which had fully blocked the road between Togher and Annagassan. “There were a significant number of incidents reported, including trees down, in the Dundalk and north Louth area, including: North Commons, Carlingford, Bush, Ravensdale, at locations along the N53, and a large tree which blocked the Knockbridge Road.

“A section of the roof at the rear of the Louth County Hospital, which was reported damaged by high winds, was checked by crews to determine that no debris had fallen on to the road. “Louth County Council would like to acknowledge the assistance of farmers who helped with machinery and tractors in the removal of fallen trees in a number of areas across the county,” concluded the statement.

PREPARATIONS are currently underway at Market Square to assemble a spectacular light installation in honour of our beloved Saint Brigid. As part of the celebrations taking place nationwide to honour Brigid of Faughart, County Louth is set to shine the brightest! A new state-of-the-art installation known as ‘The Northern Lights - Brigid 1500 Series’ will launch on Wednesday 31st of Preparations are well underway for what has January. Featuring up to individual ben described as a ‘breathtaking light display’ 200,000 points of light it will be adorned with unique decorative symbols exclusively inspired the iconic Brigid of Faughart mural, and created in collaboration with renowned Irish artist Friz. Tourism Officer Sinéad Roche explained “It is an important moment in time to celebrate the extraordinary life of St. Brigid of Faughart. This special anniversary, marking 1500 years since her death, is a collective opportunity, of social significance, for the nation to honour and reflect on her legacy. To embrace her Celtic heritage and Christian origins, exploring her deep connection to the land and people of Louth, and their enduring pride and devotion to her.” Town Centre Commercial Manager, Martin McElligott said “Since this initiative was first announced Dundalk BIDS and Louth EARLY START PRESCHOOL PROGRAMME 3-5 YEARS County Council have been working hard beJUNIOR INFANTS FROM 4 YEARS IN SEPTEMBER hind the scenes to create a visual concept epitoCAIRDE (MULTIPLE DISABILITIES CLASS) mising the spirit of BrigEARLY INTERVENTION ASD CLASSES 3 - 5 YEARS id - combining her historical, cultural, and spiritual story with creativity and light. We knew that County Louth, as

birthplace of Brigid, would play a pivotal role nationally, that it would need to be a project of scale celebrating Brigid of Faughart as a beacon of light in the world. A showcase connecting the past to the present, illuminating her legacy, and transcending her story into the future, and with that ‘The Northern Lights - Brigid 1500 Series’ was born.” Starting on Wednesday 31st of January and running until Monday 5th of February, there will be three shows each evening. This spectacular lighting show, never before seen in Ireland, is choreographed to the rhythm of music that will invigorate and inspire, and is described as a fusion that will take you on a majestic journey through the ages. Martin continued “Brigid of Faughart has always had a special place in the hearts of the people of Louth and Kildare, but now she is getting the national and even international attention that she deserves, stepping out of the shadow of St. Patrick into her

own light. It was important that we reflect the magnitude of this in the overall design. “Inspiration for the visual concept came directly from the iconic Brigid of Faughart mural, since it was created by the amazingly talented urban artist Friz back in 2020 it has captivated the attention of people across the world on a

scale that we could never have imagined. It has continued to inspire us in countless ways and was central to the design of The Northern Lights Brigid 1500 series.” Exact show times will be announced in the coming days and updates will be posted to @ TheNorthernLightsDundalk social media accounts.

ried out by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators later today. Local diversions are currently in place. “Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. “Any road users who may have camera footage (including dashcam) and who were travelling in the area at the time, are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí. “Anyone with any in-

The late Kate Keenan. formation is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or

Dundalk to shine brightly for Brigid

Redeemer Girls NS Ard Easmuinn, Dundalk

Enrolment is now open for the following Classes for Sept 2024 Please contact the school on 0429331975 or email office@redeemergirlsns.ie for details

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Great Northern Haven should be run by local authority states councillor By Tamara O’Connell

LOUTH County Councillor Conor Keelan has said he believes the Great Northern Haven apartment complex in Dundalk should be run

by the local authority. The former Louth County Council chairman made his comments after residents expressed concerns about potential structural issues in

the building. “I have queried the ownership of the Great Northern Haven building for some time. Residents living in the Great Northern Haven building are

Louth County Council tenants and that is a significant point,” said Conor. Great Northern Haven on Barrack Street is a demonstration housing project consisting

of 16 purpose-built smart homes. Each apartment is equipped with a combination of sensor and interactive technology to support AAL for older people.

It is a unique collaboration between the Louth Local Authorities, local Health Service Executive, industry partners, research and development and the older residents. Cllr Keelan raised the matter at a recent Municipal District of Dundalk meeting. According to Cllr Keelan, the occupants of the Great Northern Haven are Louth County Council tenants. “The management of the building is done by an agency called Clann. I want to know, is why is it not being managed directly by Louth County Council?” he said. “I’m trying to establish why Great Northern Haven operates the way it does. It raises questions about the services tenants get. “In addition, it raises questions about the presence of a caretaker, and who collects the rent or is responsible

Cllr. Conor Keelan. for the maintenance of the building.” Cllr Keelan added: “I have made representation on behalf of individuals and raised issues with the housing section of Louth County Council. “Any building where there are council approved housing bodies are delivering part of the housing demanded under the housing programme at a national level. “There are sections of estates in the Dundalk area run by housing bodies, for example, Lis na Dara, Clonty-

gora and Mount Hamilton.” He continued: “I want to get information from Louth County Council about approved housing bodies in Dundalk, Drogheda and other urban areas in Louth. “I’ve asked Louth County Council about the situation of the building but so far, there has been no comment. “I was told I’ll get more information at a subsequent meeting. This is all about clarity, discovery and open information, not just for me but for everyone.” Cllr Keelan concluded: “Great Northern Haven is a flagship age-friendly building for Louth. I was Chairman of Louth County Council at the time and opened the building myself. “It’s my belief that Great Northern Haven should be run by Louth County Council.”

DkIT’s School of Engineering receives momentous global Accreditation

The DkIT School of Engineering were recently awarded the extremely prestigious Bronze Athena Swan accreditation. There are a very limited number of Institutes within Ireland who hold this award. DUNDALK Institute of Technology (DkIT) is absolutely thrilled to report that their School of Engineering was recently awarded the extremely prestigious Bronze Athena Swan accreditation. Whilst DkIT was previously awarded the Bronze Athena Swan on an Institute level, this is a phenomenal achievement for the School of Engineering, which is the first Athena Swan School specific award for DkIT. This application was led by Dr Breda Brennan, Head of School of Engineering, who was only ap-

pointed to this position in the last 12 months. Dr. Brennan worked closely with the DkIT EDI Office and a SelfAssessment Team comprising of 13 staff members from the School of Engineering. There are a very limited number of Institutes within Ireland who hold this Engineering specific Bronze Athena Swan accreditation, they include Trinity College, University of Limerick and in the Technological University sector only Carlow IT (now SETU) has previously been bestowed this award.

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

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Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Council urge public to play their part in tidying up Dundalk

LOUTH County Council continue to work alongside all key stakeholders in responding to the ongoing chal-

Dundalk remain ranked towards the bottom of the IBAL litter league.

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lenge of reducing the presence of litter in Dundalk. While it is disappointing that Dundalk remains ranked towards the bottom of the IBAL litter league in its final assessment for 2023, the change in classification from the previous survey from being ‘Seriously littered’ to ‘Littered’ provides a welcome improvement on overall status but highlights more needs to be achieved on reducing general litter levels across the town if ‘Clean to European Norms’ status is to be reached. Common litter items found included alcohol bottles/cans, vapes, plastic bottles, sweetwrappers, and cigarette butts. A significant investment is made by Louth County Council on an annual basis through street cleaning services and litter enforcement activities, while considerable efforts are also made by community and voluntary sector, in maintaining a clean and vibrant environment for all residents and visitors to Dundalk.

Approximately €27,000 was spent by the council’s Community Support section on raising awareness of anti-litter initiatives in 2023 across County Louth. Furthermore, the Council has 725 bins county wide of which 52 are large capacity solar bins. Almost €200k was invested in new bins over the last two years. In addition, €350,000 has been invested in new street cleaning machines in 2023, alongside €2m annually on Dundalk and Drogheda street cleaning operations (and €200k in Ardee area). Over twenty personnel are employed every year on the street cleaning service, not counting litter enforcement which had five staff continually combating littering issues during 2023. The public plays a crucial role in reducing overall litter levels, and Louth County Council are calling on everyone to play their part in making a positive impact in 2024 by doing the following: Dispose of Waste Properly: Please use

designated bins for your trash and recycling. Avoid littering in public spaces, parks, and streets. Join Community Clean-Up Events: Keep an eye out for upcoming community cleanup events organized by the Council e.g. ‘Vote with your Butt cigarette awareness campaign in January 2024; Your participation can make a significant difference’. Educate Others: Spread awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean environment. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to adopt responsible waste disposal habits. Report Littering Incidents: If you witness someone littering, report it to the Council through our official channels. Enforcement measures will be taken to address such behaviour. Support Anti-Litter Campaigns: Stay informed about local initiatives aimed at reducing litter. Support and actively participate in campaigns promoting a litter-free Dundalk.

DUNDALK born singer Maria Doyle Cuche was among the 13 recipients of a Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad for 2023. President Michael D Higgins presented her with the award last Tuesday in Arás an Uachtaráin. Maria, who now lives in France, is blind and was presented with the award for Inclusion and Equality for her advocacy for the blind. Born in 1965 to a single mother in a Magdalene Laundry, Maria would go on to live a happy life in Cox’s Demesne before going blind at nine years of age.

Despite this she decided to follow her dream of becoming a professional singer and would go on to represent Ireland at the 1987 Maria represented Ireland at the 1985 Eurovision Song Contest under the name ‘Maria Christian’. Finishing in sixth place with her song ‘Wait until the weekend comes’. Maria met her French husband in Ireland and in 1992 she left Ireland for France where she would raise seven children in a small rural village in East France called Lorraine. In recent years Maria has received huge praise

and a number of awards for her autobiography ‘One Can Only Truly See With The Heart’ which was published by a major French publishing house. In 2020 she received a standing ovation on French TV when she sang Danny Boy live in front of an audience of millions watching on TV on ‘Voice France. Since then she has sang at a number of high profile events and has become an ambassador for ‘Voir Ensemble’ which advocates for both the blind and visually impaired.

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Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Minister announces approval for a major expansion at DkIT MINISTER for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD has announced a major project in Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) that will progress to the next stage of development under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund (TSSPF). The investment in Dundalk Institute of Technology will expand apprenticeship provision by refurbishing vacant space within the PJ Carroll Building. The investment made available through the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund is significant, providing funding to the tune of €130m for a number of projects that have been successful at this stage of the programme. Speaking last week, Minister Harris said: “I am delighted to an-

nounce that DkIT’s proposal has been successful under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund. “This increase of apprenticeship training blocks announced today will support the expansion of registrations across numerous crafts including Electrical, Motor, Carpentry, Joinery, Plumbing and Welding and will respond to the growing demand for learning through apprenticeship. “This investment reaffirms once again the Government’s strong commitment to enhancing and expanding the apprenticeship system, putting apprenticeships at the centre of the education and training system by building on previous apprenticeship programme funding. “It is through multi-million

euro investments such as this that we will truly change the learners’ experience for the better by providing the highest quality of infrastructure. “This capital investment I am announcing today once again shows the commitment and belief we have in our Technological Sector, supporting them to be drivers of regional and national development and supporting learners to achieve the skills level required to engage both nationally and in the

global world. “The HEA in advancing these capital proposals, is playing a crucial leading role in rolling out the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund ensuring a pipeline of key strategic projects that delivers for our learners and our economic and societal needs.” Ciarán McCaffrey, Head of Capital Programmes in the HEA added: “We welcome today’s announcement that DkIT will progress to the next stage of the HEA’s

Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund (TSSPF). “The investment is key to facilitating a strong pipeline in crucial skills areas through the provision of apprenticeships in areas such as carpentry, joinery, electrical and plumbing. This investment builds on existing collaboration with the Further Education sector while also contributing to climate targets through the refurbishment of higher education space. “The HEA looks forward to continuing to work closely with DkIT as they progress towards the implementation phase of this project.” President of DkIT Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan welcomed the announcement: “The announcement of funding for the refurbishment of the PJ Carroll building at DkIT

solidifies our committed in providing and responding to both national and regional needs in relation to the training of in-demand crafts people. “This funding will allow us to do a number of things, firstly increase the provision in existing craft areas, secondly increase the range of crafts apprenticeships on offer, and finally will allow us to offer additional opportunities on higher level apprenticeships. “The School of Engineering which is the provider of the apprenticeship delivery within the Institute, was a recent recipient of the prestigious Athena Swan Bronze award. This accreditation confirms their conviction to support the increase of females entering into the apprenticeship training journey.”

Ó Fiaich Institute Students Prepare to Embark on Erasmus Adventure

CARRICKDALE HOTEL Saturday February 3rd 10pm-Doors open 9pm Tickets €25 at Hotel or at the door

Ó FIAICH Institute is abuzz with excitement as 30 of its lucky students gear up for a transformative journey through the prestigious Erasmus+ Programme. This European initiative, providing college students with the opportunity to travel and work abroad, has selected Ó Fiaich Institute for its 2024 installment. Hundreds of Further Education (PLC) students eagerly applied for the chance to be part of this unique experience, and after a rigorous selection process involving personal statements, interviews, and the submission of travel and vaccination documents, the final 30 emerged victorious. A hearty congratulations is in order for these students who clinched the opportunity to embark on what promises to be a trip of a lifetime. Scheduled for February 2024, the all-expenses-paid expedition will

O’Fiach Institute students excited to take part in the Erasmus Programme. see the chosen students delving into work placements in their respective course areas in a Spanish setting. From Nursing and Marketing to Psychology and beyond, these learners will not only broaden their cultural horizons but also gain invaluable professional experience that is sure to propel them forward in their future careers. Luxury accommodations await the students as they immerse themselves in the local culture, providing a comfortable

and enriching environment for their European odyssey. To enhance their experience, the students have already commenced learning basic Spanish to navigate seamlessly through their placements and daily life. The anticipation is palpable at Ó Fiaich Institute, where staff and students alike eagerly await updates on the students’ progress. To stay in the loop and witness their journey unfold, follow @ OFIDundalk on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Insta-

gram, X and TikTok. This Erasmus+ adventure not only marks a significant milestone in the academic journey of these students but also reflects Ó Fiaich Institute’s commitment to providing holistic educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom. As the departure date approaches, the college wishes its students bon voyage and looks forward to hearing about the wealth of experiences they are sure to accumulate during this exciting chapter in their lives.

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Passengers bemoan ‘crap’ service Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

LOCAL Bus Eireann passengers travelling regularly to Fatima have stated that they feel let down by the 174A service which they claim has become very unreliable. The passenger who didn’t want to be named stated the service has gone downhill post COVID and months of frustrations with the service came to a head last week when passengers made the driver aware of human excrement which had been left on the back seat downstairs on the bus. According to the passenger he was shocked to see the driver allow people on to the bus without removing the excrement from the bus beforehand. “The bus arrived at Dundalk Bus Station about twenty minutes later than advertised which has become the norm and when passengers were getting off the bus we could hear them complain about a horrendous smell coming from the back of the

bus. The driver was made aware that there was exrement on the bus but rather than get rid of it he allowed passengers to get on to the bus and told them to avoid the back seat. “I saw a number of people refuse to get on the bus with one man at least deciding to walk to Fatima instead. That incident is symptomatic of the service in recent years. Myself and my partner use the service regularly and if we have a hospital appointment it is impossible to rely on the bus to get you up there on time. The buses regularly pull out of the station late and the drivers don’t seem to realise that they are working off a timetable which people are rely-

ing on to get them from A to B on time. “I know sometimes, and on Fridays in particular, the traffic can be very bad around time and this can cause delays and I completely get that but I’ve been on the bus on a Monday or Tuesday morning with barely any traffic on the roads and the drivers are crawling along doing 20km/h seemingly oblivious to the fact that they are running late and way behind time Before COVID this was a very reliable service but I think a lot of eh senior drivers have moved on and some of the new guys just don’t give you the time of day. It’s gone to pot to be honest and it’s not good enough,” stated the angry passenger. Responding to the claims that the driver allowed passengers on to the bus before getting rid of the human excrement Bus Eireann stated that efforts were made to find a replacement

bus but due to short notice this wasn’t possible. “At approximately 4.45pm on 15 January, a driver on one of our Dundalk town services was made aware of an unpleasant smell coming from material located on the rear seating of the bottom floor of the vehicle. “Every effort being made to find a replacement vehicle right away, however due to the short

notice requirement this was not possible. Passengers were informed a replacement service would not be in place for up to one hour. “Following engagement/ discussions with, and requests from passengers, and taking into consideration the cold weather conditions for those waiting at the station, the driver agreed to allow passengers to board the

service with seating only permitted upstairs. This provided passengers with the option to either wait for the next service or sit upstairs only on the vehicle in question. “After the completion of this journey the vehicle was taken out of service for the rest of the day and taken to the depot for examination and cleaning,” concluded the statement.

??? QUIZ ??? 1—Can you name the Florida governor who pulled out of the race to become US President last weekend? 2—Which famous Wicklow tourist attraction’s name translates to ‘Valley of the two lakes’? 3—Are there more or less than 200 countries (officially recognised by UN) in the world? 4—What year did Stephen Kenny become Dundalk FC football manager? 5—Which Dundalk street was the site of Dundalk’s first passenger station, first Railway Works and

the saw-mill for making and creosoting railway sleepers for the entire Great Northern Railway (GNR) network? 6—Andrew Byrne is the real name of which popular Irish singer whose debut single became a massive hit at home and abroad in 2013? 7—What do Roman Catholics perform before and after they pray? 8—Which actor uttered the famous line ‘Made it Ma! Top of the world! In the 1949 classic film White Heat? 9—Before the introduction of the euro, what was

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Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

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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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Peter Street residents’ plight

Dear Sir, It was sad to read about the plight of the residents from Peter Street on the front page of the Dundalk Leader dated 17th January 2024 (may I say, you should be congratulated for highlighting and supporting our citizens). Over the years we have watched with batting breaths how Anti-Social, Substance Misuse and Addictive behaviours have become a national and local phenomenon, so much so, they are now regarded as a major health problem by the World Health Organisation. The health and social problems associated with consumption have long been causes of concern in public health care circles. With the widespread availability of psychoactive substances such as, alcohol, illicit and prescribed drugs. Too many fail to realise the Bio, Psycho and Social implications it’s having on individuals, families and Communities. The National Drug Strategy 2017-2025 sets as one the core goals of the strategy ‘Reducing Harm to individuals, families and the community led by the Garda. Recovery which is a health led response that sets out the Governments strategy to address the harm caused by substance misuse in our society up to 2025. So if reducing the harms caused to individuals, families and communities by substance use, and led by the Garda, one would have to ask the question, why are the Garda are telling the people of Peter’s street that’s it’s not their problem? Substance abuse and its impact is felt in some way by most, if not all members of our society at sometime, and its sad to say, Dundalk is no exception. Whether it be within the world of rival gangs or the individuals injecting and leaving syringes for others to find on Peter Street and else where. It has created a fear in many, that one day our own children will fall prey to the same faith. It’s difficult having continuously being working in this sphere on both a local and national level for over 25 years as a Professional Counselling Therapist, Author, Speaker and Educator, it’s heartbreaking to read and feel the powerless these citizens are experiencing in Peter Street. You couldn’t help feel their pain, how they feel abandoned, isolated and powerless. I hope their plight and words don’t fall on deaf ears? Just to conclude, you won’t find a village, a town or city in Ireland that hasn’t felt the pain, from it’s grip, however, just know, Dundalk has so many dedicated and wonderful supportive services, for anyone from Peter Street or anywhere else in our community, who might feel they could use support. Talking is a good old therapy as a means of support. Supporting our communities, our neighbours and our citizens who are clearly experiencing profound negative impacts on their lives, surly, this should be to the fore for us all. Sincerley, Martin Rafferty, Senior Therapist, Chara Counselling.

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

FAMILY NOTICES

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

DUFFY Annie The Family of the late Annie Duffy, 75 O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, wish to extend their thanks to all who helped and for the support given at the time of our dear Mother’s loss. Thank you to all the medical staff, doctors, nurses and carers who attended and treated Annie with dignity. To the staff of St. Oliver’s Nursing Home, Louth County Hospital and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. As it is impossible to thank all those concerned individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our heart-felt appreciation.

WEEKLY DEADLINE FOR FAMILY NOTICES

is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday Publication. Contact Lorna Tel 042 9320888.

IN MEMORIAM

CONLON Elizabeth (Lizzie) 20th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of our mother, Elizabeth (Lizzie) Conlon, late of 18 Hughes Park, whose 20th anniversary occurs on 22nd January. Time may pass and fade away, But silent thoughts and memories stay, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there. Your memory is our greatest treasure, To Love, to cherish, and keep forever. —Always loved and remembered by your family. Anniversary Mass, Saturday, 27th January, at 6pm in Friary Chapel.

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

NOVENA PRAYER TO SAINT JUDE Saint Jude, glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor has caused thee to be forgotten by many. But the Church honours and invokes thee universally as the patron of hopeless cases – of matters despaired off. Pray for me who am so miserable, make use, I implore thee, of that particular privilege accorded to thee, to bring visible and speedy. Help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly (here make your request) and that I may bless God with thee and all the Elect throughout eternity. I promise thee O blessed Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favour, and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen. St Jude pray for us. And for all who invoke thy aid. St Jude, help of the hopeless, aid me in my distress. Pray for us that we may be admitted into the company of the blessed, to rejoice in the presence of God forever. D.W.

ARTICLES FOR SALE

SPECIAL SERVICES

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. 2003 ALL-IRELAND Senior Football Final Official Programme Armagh V Tyrone, first time two Northern Teams have met in an All-Ireland Final. For Sale £30 Tel 0877479007. SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED— Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

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>. 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 086-607-1702. CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning. ie. ROOFING AND BUILDING contractor available. Repairs and new builds. Fully insured. Contact Mark Carney on 087 1302040 for enquiries. GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358. 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 0894016728.

ALL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE services carried out. Roof repairs, Plumbing, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor tiling, All outdoor work, Paving & Fencing, Power washing. Call Gerry your local man 087 6461556 or 042 9327241 after 6pm. 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. 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. 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.

LAND TO LET 10 ACRE FIELD to let. North of Dundalk. Please phone 0876607744 for further information.

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 087-2259799. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888. 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>. 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.

Faster rollout of contactless payments on public transport must happen from NTA—McGahon THE onus is on the National Transport Authority to expedite the process of rolling out contactless payments on public transport, a Fine Gael Senator has said. Senator John McGahon said that while a tendering process is underway to build a new system with the result expected within the next two months, the predicted rollout time is unacceptable to commuters. “National Transport Authority (NTA) CEO Anne Graham has said that the use of bank cards and digital wallets is unlikely to be widely available until 2025 or 2026,” Senator McGahon explained. “This is just not good enough. While I welcome news that the tendering process is underway, the admission that the most popular methods of payment such as Apple and Google Pay won’t be made available until next year at the earliest, and perhaps even the year after is a big let down. “Leap Cards were first rolled out in De-

Senator John McGahon. cember 2011 and while they are convenient and useful, many more people would prefer the option to pay with their card or

phone, given the cumbersome nature of the Leap Card top up app and the lack of shops and services that offer the option to top up. “Public transport use hit a record high last year. People made around 308 million journeys on Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann, Luas and other services in 2023 – a figure that was 24% more than in 2023. It’s good news that people are more willing to use public transport – it’s better for congestion, sometimes better for our pockets and better for our environment. “People commuting to work in the city and tourists need to be offered transport links that are reliable and easy to navigate and access. Ireland is an outlier in not being able to facilitate contactless payments on public transport. NTA need to pull out all the stops now to deliver the full range of payment options to commuter, and fast.”

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. 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. FRENCH/SPANISH GRINDS available in Dundalk. Experienced examiner and teacher. Email: sophiep@gcdd.ie.

ADVERTISE IN OUR CLASSIFIEDS to over

60,000 readers

from only €5 per week up to 20 words

042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

Dundalk Rotary Club donate to local charities HILL STREET, DUBLIN RD., DUNDALK.

042 9331515/086 2559201

Donal McGeough presents a cheque to the Rotary club from Windsor Bar. The Rotary Club plan to donate the money to St Vincent de Paul. L-R Gay Berkery (Rotarian), Donal McGeogh, Michael Staunton (Club President) and Frank McArdle (Rotarian).

Ann Cooney from Dundalk Lourdes Committee accepts a cheque from Rotary Club. L-R Oliver Nixon (Rotarian), Sean O’Hanrahan (Rotarian), Ann Cooney and Gay Berkery (Rotarian).

Dundalk Rotary Club President Michael Staunton presents Siobhan Rothwell (Irish Association of Lourdes Volunteers) with a donation for the organisation. Also in pic is John Igoe (Rotarian) and Frank McArdle (Rotarian).

Frank McArdle (left) and Paddy Williams (right) present a cheque to Michael Kelly who was representing the local branch of St Vincent de Paul.

Michael Staunton (President of Dundalk Rotary Club) presents Frank Toal with a cheque for the Birches Alzheimers Day Centre. L-R Michael Staunton, Frank Toal and Paddy Williams.

JANUARY SALE Dundalk Leader 24th January 2024

MADDISON 3 + 2 + 1 SOFA RRP €3499 NOW €2,299

ORLANDO 3 + 2 SOFA RRP €2,499 NOW €1,699

MADDISON 3 + 2 SOFA RRP €2,499 NOW €1,699

ORLANDO 3 + 1 + 1 SOFA RRP €2,999 NOW €1,899

JUST SOME OF OUR OFFERS AVAILABLE IN OUR JANUARY SALE