25-01-2023

Men’s Shed new appeal as exit deadline looms

By Tamara O’Connell

The Chairperson of Dundalk Men’s Shed has said the group will “gratefully accept” any donations after it was told they will have to move out of their current premises within weeks.

Dundalk Men’s Shed Chairperson Peter O’Neill told the Dundalk Leader that the news came as a “wee bit of a shock”.

“We have been going for ten or 11 years here. The men enjoy it a lot as we have many different activities,” he said.

“For example, the men’s choir is very active and we have woodwork, arts and crafts and even Tai Chi.”

The men in Dundalk Men’s Shed found out last year that they would have to move out of their premises in Seatown which they have called home for over a decade. Saint John of God, owns the property and plans to refurbish the building to expand its day service. Continued on Page 2 The Men’s Shed

From Page 1

The news was given to the Men’s Shed just under a year ago with an extension to the lease granted to Alone Ire-

land which allowed the Shed to remain for a few months longer at their Seatown base. However, there will be no more extensions granted and St John of God will take over the building in March.

The shed is one of many around the country that allow men to meet up, socialize and engage in a range of activities including woodwork, games, exercise and song. The sixty or so members have helped create a very welcoming environment and have contributed regularly to local projects which enhance our town including making benches for

local establishments as well as a fence which protected the Christmas Tree at the square throughout the festive period.

The men’s choir have been a welcome addition also with the men singing Christmas Carols around the town each year since they formed a number of years ago.

Their base in Seatown has evolved over the last decade and now includes a workroom, kitchen, garden, vegetable patch and poly tunnel.

Dundalk Men’s Shed currently has approximately 60 to 70 members and the prospect of having to close down the shed for good is obviously a very real worry with the March deadline quickly approaching.

According to Peter they have a site in Muirhevnamor

which could potentially give them an option of a new home, but a lot of money would need to be raised before that dream turns into a reality.

“We have a site in Muirhevanmor that we were given by the council if we could make any use of it.

“We now have to raise funds for a new building and hopefully we will get a lot of support from the local community.

“We will take small steps for now and see how we get on. The members are waiting for a move but currently we have no premises that we could use temporarily.”

He continued: “It’s early days yet but Dundalk Men’s Shed is essential for this age group. It gives people purpose and meaning.”

Men’s Shed issue new appeal as deadline looms Blackrock to hold Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

The Dundalk St Patrick’s Day committee met on Tuesday, January 24 at 3pm to clarify some issues regarding the parade in the town for March 17 this year. At the time of going to press it was unclear if the parade would be cancelled for a fourth successive year with a final decision due to be made during yesterday’s meeting.

After last year’s 2022 St Patrick’s Day Parade was called off in Dundalk, the committee promised

a “major event” for 2023.

In a statement issued in 2022 the voluntary group said that funding issues along with a short run-in

time left them with no options.

The committee said: “Despite our best efforts, with numerous contacts and meetings held, due to budget

constraints, as well as uncertainty around Covid 19 at the end of last year, we are unable to host a St Patrick’s Day event in Dundalk this year.

“however, we have lots of ideas and plans for next year, which we are already working on.

“We are going forward with plans that would mean a major event for people to enjoy in Dundalk next year. We look forward to building on the work we already have done.”

however, the Blackrock Social Club committee is planning to hold a St Patrick’s Day parade on March 17.

“We are just over Christmas but the plan for the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Blackrock is in the pipeline,” said publican Kevin Soraghan.

The owner of Uncle Tom’s Cabin in Blackrock described the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Blackrock last year as a “massive success”.

“Last year made

for a great day. It attracted plenty of people to the village. We had three days to plan it so it was very quick but we have a bit more time this year,” he said.

“We will have a local musical element and vintage tractors, vintage cars and lorries. Local community groups will also march in the parade.

“Rock Celtic FC, the Geraldine’s and Na Piarsaigh will take part, along with the three primary schools in the area.

Witness appeal— suspected criminal damage by fire incident

WITneSS AppealSuspected Criminal Damage by Fire Incident Gardaí are appealing to the public for assistance regarding an investigation into a suspected criminal damage by fire incident that occurred in the early hours of

Monday 23rd January 2023 in Dundalk.

The incident occurred between 2:35am and 2:50am at a residence in Aghameen Park, Hoey’s Lane, Dundalk.

no injuries were reported during the course of this incident although significant

damage was caused to the front of the property. Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to come forward.

Any road users or pedestrians who were in the vicinity of the Inner Relief Road, Hoey’s Lane or the Dub-

lin Road in Dundalk between 2am and 3am and observed any activity which drew their attention are asked to contact Gardaí.

Any road users who were in these areas at these times who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this

footage available to investigating Gardaí.

Anyone with any information that can assist Gardaí with their investigation are asked to contact Dundalk Garda Station on 042 9388400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Dundalk Men’s Shed are searching for a new home to call their own.

Fitzpatrick seeks Dáil suspension to address the crisis in Children’s Mental Health Services

DePUTy Peter Fitzpatrick and his colleagues in the Independent Regional Group of TDs submitted a request to the Ceann Comhairle to suspend Dáil Éireann yesterday (Tuesday 24th January). Considering the publication of an interim report by the Mental health Commission into CAMhS services, Fitzpatrick asked that the Minister for health address Dáil Éireann, outlining the immediate steps which are to be taken to protect children and ensure proper access to Child and Adolescent Mental health Services.

Deputy Fitzpatrick and the Regional Group also call for immediate clinical review of all open cases in all CAMhS teams while stating that the Interim Report highlighted some very serious safety concerns.

“I have constantly raised the issues of CAMhS, waiting lists and lack of services on the floor on the Dáil in relation to County Louth and east Meath. I have questioned why there are no Psychiatrist’s on the hSe Team and when one would be appointed. I raised this issue

because I am aware of at least 15 families who have adolescent children with Autism/ Moderate Learning Disability who urgently require a Psychiatric review. In addition to no Psychiatrists being available, CAMh’s will not see teenagers who have a dual diagnosis and these adolescent children cannot be seen by the Mental health Team until they are 18 yrs. old.”, says Deputy Fitz-

patrick on the crisis situation in Louth and Meath.

“The report describes a dysfunctional system, a lack of out-of-hours support, long waiting lists, staffing issues and inability to provide therapeutic interventions. Children are not receiving follow-up care and are getting lost in the system.

“In light of these findings, the Regional Group alongside Deputy Fitzpatrick have submitted a formal request to the Ceann Comhairle asking him to suspend the Dáil so this urgent matter can be discussed tomorrow, Tuesday.

“Our mental health service is in crisis and affecting those who are most vulnerable, our children.

“In 2020, this Government supported the Regional Group Members Mental health Motion. It called on the Government to protect not only the population’s physical health, but its mental health. Since then little has been done to address the issues highlighted with children mental health services,” stated Deputy Fitzpatrick.

Lack of access to dental care putting pressure on A&e

THe situation faced by medical card patients in trying to access a dental appointment in Louth was laid bare in Leinster House last week during a debate in which Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú read out a text from a constituent.

The Dundalk deputy was speaking on a Regional Group motion calling on the government to sort out the huge issue of dentists leaving the medical card treatment scheme.

Deputy Ó Murchú highlighted the issue faced by Louth people in trying to access dental care with a medical card.

He said: ‘In 2016-17, there were 35 dentists in Louth operating the scheme. At the end of 2022 there were only 13. On the basis of those figures, the Minister can work out what the impact has been’.

He read out a message from a Dundalk constituent: ‘My son was in a bad way with a

dental issue two or three months ago.

‘His dentist would not take his medical card, so he went, as suggested, to the doctor on call. The doctor on call said that if he could not get a dentist within 24 hours to go to A&e

‘We had to borrow money to get him an emergency dentist in Dublin. Two weeks before Christmas I had a dental issue. I had registered with a new dentist in Dundalk as mine also had stopped taking medical cards.

‘When I went to

the new dentist, even though I was in agony and I had the €40 deposit they required, they told me that as I was a new client I was not a priority.

‘They advised that I go to a GP and if I could not get an appointment to go to A&e. I did go to my original dentists, who were excellent.

‘It cost me €35 for the appointment and €95 for an extraction or filling. If you are on social welfare while looking for work, it is devastating.

‘It meant no heat in the house over the past week. I am happy and grateful to have home and food and electricity but the Government need to fix the issues with the dentists also. So, the GPs are out the door, the dentists won’t take the medical card and everyone is suggesting to us A&e’.

Deputy Ó Murchú said the ‘debacle’ is ‘putting further pressure on the emergency de-

partment in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital’.

He said: ‘We also have the possible impending closure of the navan accident and emergency department, which would heap even more pressure onto this particular problem.

‘We can see that all of these crises are coming together. It is an absolute necessity, even if it is all we do, for the Minister to engage with the Irish Dental Association and bring this one part of the problem to a closure.

‘We would then have dealt with at least one of the many issues that exist in the health service.

‘We need more dentists and better workforce planning, we need work permits dealt with and we need to consider the possibility of directly employing dentists to deal with the issue we have.

‘This is an ongoing disaster and we need delivery, not positive words from the Minister’.

Peter Fitzpatrick, TD.

Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD.

Dundalk duo’s new venture will help musicians Blow to local workers as Argos announce plans to close

DunDALk men Pete Rust and Dagan Fleming have teamed up to launch a new version of their music industry website Fanify.

The pair met during the pandemic and since then have been working hard together to turn their business idea into reality.

According to Fanify CeO, Pete who grew up in Old Muirhevna on the Dublin Road, music has been his life since he was a young boy.

“I attended Gael Scoil Dhun Dealgan where I was taught the fiddle by Gerry O’Connor. I went on to the Marist and did Applied Music in DkIT,” said the 31-year-old.

He also studied music technology and sound engineering in Pulse Recording College in Dublin.

“Music was very much the only thing I did growing up from about the age of 12 or 13. I’ve been playing guitar and writing my own songs since I was around 14,” he said.

“I’ve also done several Internet-based courses

in digital marketing over the last seven or eight years to promote music.

“When Covid-19 hit I switched over to the digital side and we set up two You Tube channels called ‘Lock up Orignal and Lock up DJs.”

Pete and Dagan have recently raised €400,000 for their tech start up project, a website called Fanify.

It is a tool for musicians to help them automate promotional activities and help them build an online presence.

“The vast majority of musicians don’t have the time or inclination to spend marketing their music in order to bring it to a large fan base,” said

Pete.

“They might put a lot of work in and eventually get their music on Spotify only to end up with 20 monthly listeners.

“They are left wondering where do they go from here. The answer is Fanify. We would say don’t’ waste your time, go back to playing music and let us market your work.”

Fanify Business Development Manager Dagan Fleming, aged 39, attended Bay estate nS and Dundalk Grammar School and studied music technology and sound engineering in Temple Bar.

According to Da-

gan, Fanify will benefit the artist because it’s a global product and will save the musician a lot of time.

“On the website there is a dashboard and you can have that for social media content. It will be stream-lined and optimised and geared and tailored towards musicians,” said Dagan.

“In the middle of the pandemic we filmed a lot of local acts in the Teeling’s Distillery and we also produced the St Patrick’s Day video with Alvaro as I sit on the St Patrick’s Day Committee for the St Patrick’s Day parade.

“We have a long history of producing content locally. The only way artists in Ireland will survive and flourish is if they get support.”

Fanify has free features and it also operates a subscription service for uS$14.99 per month. It is currently just in dollars but Pete and Dagan have plans to offer the service in different currencies over time.

For more information please visit Fanify.io.

An estimated 15 to 20 employees at Argos Dundalk in the Retail Park have been affected by the announcement that Argos is to close all stores and operations in the Republic of Ireland at the end of June.

On average there are between 15 to 20 people employed at each store in Ireland with the announcement affecting 580 Argos employees nationwide.

There will be no change to the retailer’s operations in northern Ireland, Scotland, england and Wales, where Argos is performing well.

In a statement issued by Argos, the company said it arrived at the decision to leave Ireland following a long period of careful consideration and a thorough review of its business and operations in the country.

Argos is a retailer of general merchandise products, including toys, technology and consumer electronics.

Argos concluded the investment required to develop and modernise the Irish part of its business was not viable and that the money would be better invested in other parts of its business.

“Argos operates a bespoke model in the Republic of Ireland that is significantly different to its wider uk operation and today’s announcement only relates to Ar-

gos stores in the Republic of Ireland,” the company stated.

“everyone at Argos recognises that this news will be unsettling for all its colleagues, some of whom have served Argos customers in Ireland for many years, and disappointing for its loyal customers.

“Argos is committed to doing everything it can to support its people and is talking to 580 colleagues, across 34 stores in the Republic of Ireland about their options.”

The statement continued: “As part of its consultation with colleagues and Mandate, the recognised trade union, Argos will propose an enhanced redundancy package that goes well beyond its statutory obligations.

“The small number of colleagues not eligible for redundancy under Irish Law are expected to receive a one-off goodwill payment.

“To further support colleagues, Argos has also committed to a programme of wider support over the coming months.”

Andy McClelland, Argos Ireland Operations Manager, said:

“We understand this is difficult news for our customers and colleagues.

“As with any major change to our business, we have not made this decision lightly and we are doing everything we can to support those impacted.

“On behalf of everyone at Argos I would like to thank our colleagues, customers, suppliers and partners for their support to our business.”

Argos stores will remain open to customers in the Republic of Ireland until 24th June 2023. Following the announcement, Argos will begin the process of gradually winding down its Irish business.

As part of this, customers in Ireland will no longer be able to pay for orders via the Argos website or place orders via its home delivery service after 22nd March 2023.

Orders placed up to this date will continue to be fulfilled and customers will still be able to reserve products online and pay for them in store until the point of business closure.

The aftersales, returns, refunds and exchanges policy will continue to apply until Argos stores close.

Customers will be able find more information about how this policy will continue, in line with the retailer’s statutory obligations, after its stores have closed.

Dagan Fleming and Pete Rust.

McGreehan welcomes further addition to national newborn Bloodspot Screening (nBS) Programme

SeNATOR erin McGreehan welcomes approval of a recommendation from the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) to add a group of conditions known as Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) to the National Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NBS) Programme.

When implemented, this will bring to 10 the number of condi-

tions screened as part of what is commonly known as the ‘heel prick’ test in Ireland.

Senator McGreehan said, “I’m delighted to see this further expansion of the newborn screening. I’ve been campaigning on this in Seanad and it’s good to see Government action on the matter. This brings the number of conditions we screen newborns for to 10

and is a further improvement on our neonatal care.”

The NSAC considered a comprehensive health Technology Assessment (hTA) report from hIQA on the evidence for the addition of SCID to the NBS programme at its meeting in December 2022, and made its recommendation based on the evidence and advice in the hTA.

SCID is a group of rare but serious inherited conditions which are almost uniformly fatal in the first year of life without appropriate treatment. National and international evidence consistently suggests that

earlier identification and earlier treatment for SCID results in better clinical outcomes for the child.

The estimated prevalence of diagnosed SCID in Ireland is relatively high at 1 in 39,760 births, with

27 patients diagnosed from 2005 to 2020.

The ongoing expansion of the NBS programme is a priority for the Minister and the NSAC, and several other rare newborn conditions are undergoing consideration.

At its December 2022 meeting, the NSAC decided to ask hIQA to carry out a hTA for the addition of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). It is expected that hIQA will commence this work early in 2023.

Brigid of Faughart Festival 2023

THe 16th Brigid of Faughart Festival celebrates Brigid as Pre-Christian Goddess, Christian Saint and wise woman of the 21st Century. It also celebrates the ancient festival of Imbolc, announcing the beginning of Spring. Festival launch Thursday 19th January at 6.15pm in the County Library, Dundalk, everyone welcome.

The Brigid of Faughart Festival is organised by a group of people, who came together in 2008, with the vision of recovering and offering the wisdom of Brigid and the values that she embodied, in ways relevant to our contemporary society.

The theme for this year’s festival is Brigid- Pre-Christian Goddess, Celtic Saint and Wise Guide for the 21st century.

This unique modern festival offers a range of exciting and creative events through which four different, yet interrelated aspects of Brigid, earth Woman, Healer, Poet/Artist and Spiritual Teacher, are explored. The festival creates opportunities to learn from the wisdom of Brigid, who is an expression of the divine feminine, within the Irish spiritual and mythological narrative.

The Brigid of Faughart Festival explores ancient spiritual traditions through myth, landscape, folklore, spiritual customs, visual arts, poetry, music and dance. The emphasis of this festival is to revisit and reclaim the richness of the traditions associated

with Brigid of Faughart, in ways which are relevant to our lives in the 21st century. A deeper underlying aim of the festival is to act as a catalyst for the recovery of the presence of the feminine energy and the Divine feminine within our daily lives.The festival has many exciting events including The annual Pilgrimage Walk from Dundalk to Faughart, The Welcoming back of Brigid at Imbolc at Faughart Oratory, Healing Day, talks and workshops in the County Library and An Tain Arts Centre, and Closing Ritual in Ravensdale Community

Centre. These events are sure to stimulate your interest in the ancient yet relevant spirituality available to support us humans at this time of intense change and transformation. The Festival will take place in Faughart, Dundalk and Ravensdale, Co. Louth between Sunday Jan 29th and Monday 6th Feb 2023

For the full programme of events, please see www.brigidoffaughart.ie bookings through An Tain Arts Centre www.antain.ie

For information contact - 087 1363224 or 086 8434117

Sen. erin Mcgreehan.

Féile na Tána celebrates the very best of traditional music

FéILe na Tána is back in person for its ninth festival celebrating the very best of Irish traditional music, song and dance in Cooley, Co Louth in the heart of Oriel.

The festival will take place on the 3rd, 4th and 5th of February.

The tutors for 2023 are Mary Bergin, Bríd O’Donohue, Mick O’Brien, Michelle Mulcahy, Louise Mulcahy, Dermot Byrne, Caitlín nic Gabhann, John Mc Intyre, nell ní Chrónín, Gerry Banjo O’Connor, Jimmy Higgins, Seosamh Ó neachtain, Zoë Conway and Bríd Harper.

Féile na Tána would like to thank everyone who supports

this wonderful festival each year including Arts Council Ireland and Create Louth.

Friday 3rd February 2023

7pm Launch concert at St Michael’s Hall, Carlingford.

Featuring local musicians Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre

Also featuring the Traditional Orchestra of Scoil naomh Lorcan, Omeath

Followed by young musicians’ session in St Michael’s Hall - all welcome! Free admission.

Saturday 4th February— 1.30pm Registration; 2.00pm - 5.00pm Workshops. each of our world-renowned tutors will teach at Bush Post Primary School.

Classes are limited to 17 students per class. Workshops cost €35/£30.

Workshops for 2023_ Ceardlanna na Féile 2023—Fidil ard-rang/Fiddle advanced Bríd Harper; Fidil mean-rang/Fiddle intermediate Zoë Conway; Feadóg ard-rang/Whistle advanced Mary Bergin; Feadóg meánrang/Whistle intermediate Bríd O Donohue; Píob uilleann /uilleann Pipes Mick O Brien.

Cláirseach/Harp Michelle Mulcahy; Fliúit/Flute Louise Mulcahy; Bosca/Accordian Dermot Byrne; Consairtín/ Concertina Caitlín nic Gabhann.

Amhráin/Singing nell

ní Chrónín; Bainseó/Banjo Gerry ‘Banjo’ O’Connor; Bodhrán Jim Higgins; Giotár/Guitar John Mc Intyre; Damhsa Sean nós/Sean nós dancing Seosamh Ó neachain

7.30pm—Don’t miss our Tutor’s Concert on Saturday 4th Feb which features all the tutors playing solo and together.

Beidh Ceolchoirm Mhór Féile na Tána á craoladh ag a 7.30 oíche De Sathairn 4ú Feabhra

St. Michael’s Hall Carlingford, adm €10/Free for all Féile na Tána students 9.30pm Session at Mckevitts Hotel, Carlingford, all welcome! Adm Free

Sunday 5th February— 3pm St. Michael’s Hall. Another highlight of Féile na Tána is the very special Festival Concert on Sunday 5th February which gives a platform to some of Ireland’s talented young musicians and also features two of Ireland’s leading traditional players, fiddler Bríd Harper and accordian player, Dermot Byrne.

Adm €10/Free for all Féile na Tána students; 6pm Session at The Four Seasons Hotel, Carlingford, Adm Free.

Féile na Tána would like to thank Create Louth and The Arts Council for their support.

Dundalk student wins art competition

MICHeLLe Moloney king’s copper and cotton weaving was accepted for exhibition with the Cork Textiles network. And then won the competition where her work was purchased by Cork School of Music to become part of their important permanent collection.

Fiodhna ni Bhaoill, Chairperson of Cork Textiles network was happy to see a new member do so well.

“I’m delighted for Michelle, her work is so unusual and her story and research is exciting.”

She recently started to create more structural work after researching rural farming, her own family archive and her interests in creating an alternative art history for Ireland. Moloney king said, “I’m inspired by farming, I remember old rusty tractor parts, sheep’s wool on barbed wire and seeing my Dad mend woven wire fences. I used to tell him it was all art be-

cause it was broken but almost had a purpose and that’s what made it beautiful and he said I

THe organisers of Lighting up the Darkness 2022 are “delighted” to announce that they raised €5,927.50.

According to one of the organisers, Roisin Carolan, the funds for Lighting up the Darkness 2022 were raised in memory of “our dear friend Isabelle, in aid of St James’s Hospital”.

The Carolan family in kilkerley received sponsorship to cover the costs of lighting their house for Christmas.

Last year was their third year to raise money for charity. In 2020, they raised €4,303 for the Dundalk Simon Community.

Then in 2021, they raised €8,321.38 for The Rotunda

was a dreamer but admired my ability to see such potential.”

Having work ac-

Foundation and the nICu in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

Roisin and Robert are completely blown away to have fundraised this amount for these three organisations.

“We would like to thank all who donated online, sent donations and donated to the buckets when they visited,” said Roisin.

“It was such a joy for us to see the cars pulling up, and parents taking photos with their children of the lights, and of our 6ft tall Santa at the gate.”

After the fundraiser in 2021, Roisin and Robert hadn’t planned on doing another fundraiser. They were

cepted for a public body’s collection is an honour, it means more credibility as an artist,

hoping to take some time out, just to enjoy Christmas with their family.

However, in August when their dear friend Isabelle passed away after a very tough fight with cancer, it seemed that they had no other option, but to raise money in Isabelle’s memory.

In consultation with Isabelle’s husband Paul, the decision was made to raise money for St James’s Hospital, Dublin, where Isabelle received most of her treatment.

The Carolan family would like to thank their sponsors as without their support, this fundraiser couldn’t happen.

membership to high profile art institutions and being a part of the nation’s archive. “I am humbled by the support from Cork Textiles network and their warm welcome. I wish my father could see my work of rusty, woven, patinated copper and cotton art hanging on the walls of such an important institution...”

Moloney king’s artist statement is a well put together piece but condensed to the core it’s about making surrealist art, telling people she dug it up in the bog field and creating an alternative Irish history one where we were not under control of a foreign power or religious institution but were free thinkers with the gifts and ability to make art during the avant-garde movement.

She tells a story of the family’s inside joke - there’s gold in the bog field. “My Dad used to say that all the time and was teased unmercifully about it. He didn’t mean

it literally, but there is a very old site of pagan worship there, a sweat house. He was talking about the importance of heritage, the Shamanic inter-cosmic travel that used to take place in those ruins centuries ago. I used to have my breakfast looking out at the bog field…it’s funny really, the mind and a child’s imagination. Guess there really was gold in the bog field after all!

My dad, Michael F. Moloney was a banjo player and singer so it feels right to have my work placed in Ireland’s foremost music institution.”

Tom Doyle, Conservatoire Coordinator of CSM said, “We were delighted to see work like this, textile and copper, it really caught our eye. There’s so much movement in the piece and it looks like a musical note or staff. Stunning!”

Music of Taize

WeLCOMe to those aged between 18 & 40yrs, to a relaxed time of peace and quiet prayer, in candlelight, with the music of “Taize”. Friday, 3rd February, 8-9pm followed by Tea/Coffee. “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk A91 WOC9. Tel: 042-9331602 bethanypointroad@ gmail.com.

9% tourism VAT

LOuTH hoteliers have welcomed comments by Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin, TD, that she will continue to seek a further extension of the 9% VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality sector in Ireland. The tourism VAT rate, which is due to expire at the end February, is currently under review by the cabinet. In light of the growing economic challenges facing the sector, local hoteliers are urging the Government to retain the existing 9% rate to safeguard tourism livelihoods and secure the long-term, sustainable development of Irish tourism.

Prior to the pandemic, the tourism industry supported over 270,000 livelihoods nationally, including some 3,000 jobs throughout Louth, generating €90m in tourism revenues annually for the local economy.

With a full recovery in tourism now likely to be delayed until 2026, an increase in the VAT rate to 13.5% is the last thing that should be contemplated given its inflationary impact and the damage it would cause to Ireland’s tourism competitiveness. This would result in Irish consumers and overseas visitors having to pay the third highest tourism VAT rate in all of europe.

Against this backdrop, hotels and guesthouses are urging the Government to retain the 9% VAT rate at its current rate.

When We Never Had It So Good

In the days when we first went to primary school

We had a world made in Hollywood; Wild West heroes, the epitome of ‘cool’, And we’d never had it so good.

And as we watched the nineteen sixties unroll A glorious optimism rotated time’s spoke; The dance halls were full of rock ‘n roll

And we had the honest simplicity of folk.

We had dreams to dream; songs to sing

A world adults never quite understood, And all the promise the world was to bring.

And we’d never had it so good.

Now, aeons ago, the innocence we once knew Has been irretrievably lost along the way; Our grandchildren’s future, their looked forward to Buried in a morass of anxiety today.

By a seemingly never-ending coronavirus

And a planet now facing inevitable flood

A far cry from dreams which used to inspire us

When we’d never had it so good.

—Noel Sharkey.

Tom Doyle, Conservatoire Coordinator of CSM, Fiodhna ni Bhaoill, Chairperson of Cork Textiles network and Michelle Moloney King.

Mick O’Brien. Louise Mulcahy.

DROGHeDA Institute of Further education (DIFe) is delighted to announce details of our 2023 Open Day 2023 on Thursday, 26th January (6.30pm – 8.30pm) and Friday, 27th January (9am – 4pm). The Open day will provide an opportunity for prospective students to discover what DIFe has to offer and the exciting options available in Drogheda Institute of Further education. Learners will be able to participate in campus tours to check out our state-of-the-art facilities, attend college presentations, chat to staff and current students, experience course demos, hear from our guidance team and enter competitions and givea-

ways on the day.

Drogheda Institute is the largest Further education and Training (FeT) provider in the northeast Region, providing a wide range of PLC & Pre-university courses to school leavers and adults returning to education. The college has established itself as one of the leading Fe colleges in the country providing pathways to both higher education and employment. The college has been awarded Best Further education Provider in Ireland in 2020 and 2021 by The education Awards. DIFe offers a diverse range of fulltime courses with over 60 courses available at Level 5 and Level 6

on the national Framework of Qualifications across the following departments: Art, Design & Technology, Business Humanities & IT, Sports, Leisure & Tourism, Applied Science and Community & HealthCare

DIFe’s experienced teachers, unrivalled range of educational courses, diverse student population and state of the art campus makes the college an unparalleled environment for students to progress their education and take the next step to their future careers. An increasing number of students are choosing to study a one-year full time course in DIFe to enable them to upskill,

gain relevant industry qualifications, work on obtaining progression scholarships, progress to further and higher education or as a pathway to direct employment.

All DIFe courses have excellent pathways to both Higher education and/or employment. DIFe graduates can progress to Higher education with places reserved for FeT learners in universities and Institutes of Technology

in Ireland, uk and in europe. Many courses are also employment focused for those looking to gain industry recognised qualifications in a short course and progress directly to employment (childcare, healthcare, beauty therapy, hairdressing, pharmacy, animal care, dental nursing, health and fitness sectors etc). new & updated Courses in DIFe for 2023

DIFe are delighted to announce several new PLC programmes on offer for 2023/24. each programme will include a mandatory work placement within industry with learners gaining on the job skills in addition to their academic studies. All new courses having excellent progression links to employment and/or related degrees in universities/ IT’s here in Ireland, uk & europe.

Opticians Assistant (Ophthalmic Care)

Software Development & Cloud Computing

Holistic Studies with Yoga Teaching Architectural Technology & Design Furniture Design & Joinery

Computer Frontline Technician & Cyber Security Pre-University

Environmental Studies Ecology, Biodiversity & Horticulture

Food Science, Brewing Techniques & Nutrition Hospitality & Event Management Music Production & DJ Techniques

Dental Nursing

For further information and to apply for any of our 60+ courses, please visit the college website: www.dife.ie.

In the name Washington D.C., what does the D.C stand for?

The sitcom frasier was a character spin off of which other sitcom?

As featured in the song, what does the abbreviation YMCA stand for?

Family Notices

NOVENA tO thE

SACRED hEARt

NOVENA tO thE

SACRED hEARt

PROPERT y/RE n TALS SPECIAL SER v ICES

MAtthEWS

Gerry 2nd anniversary in loving memory of my dear husband gerry, late of legion avenue.

We love and miss you every day. may god bless you and take care of you until we meet again.

sadly missed by your loving wife, may; sons, stephen and Brian; daughters Karen and elaine; also grandchildren Kelly, Jude, emily, arron, Daniel and Benjimen; daughters-in-law Donna and terri and son-inlaw, michael.

anniversary mass is on sunday, 29th January, in st nicholas church at 12pm.

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).

M.M.C.

NOVENA tO thE

SACRED hEARt

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past i asked you for many favours this time, i ask for this special favour (mention it). take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. amen. say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (never known to fail) Z.McS.

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). h.K.

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) K.McD.

NOVENA tO thE

SACRED hEARt

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past i asked you for many favours this time, i ask for this special favour (mention it). take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where your Father sees it. then in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. amen. say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (never known to fail). P.M.

ATTEnTIOn for B.E.R. CERTIfICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

FOR REnT—Large Spacious Beauty Room to Let. Available from 1st february. Ready to work from imediately. fully equipped with brand new equipment. freshly painted. Over a busy Hair Salon in Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk. Advantage of existing clientele. for further queries please call 087 3606252.

3 bEdROOM country bungalow to let, 8 miles from Dundalk, oil fired central heating, text only 00 44 790 168 2223.

2 bEdROOM HOuSE or apartment wanted to rent in Dundalk Town Tel 085 7358320.

ATTEnTIOn L AndLORdS—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.

Cd LOgS—Kiln Dried Ash/Oak & Birch, Weekly Deliveries to Dundalk & surrounding areas. Newry Co. Down Mob 00 44 77 6040 3254 or 048 30269632 www.cdlogs.com.

2 SEATER brown leather couch for sale, also single bed and mattress, both in excellent condition, reasonably priced tel 087 2176406.

TOwbAR FOR SALE for a Nissan Primastar High Roof and a roof rack. Contact 0872296441.

CHIMnEy & STOvE CLEAnIng—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

Ó Fiaich Institute students jetting off to Spain!

Ó FIAICh Institute has been selected to take part in the erasmus+ Programme this year. This programme is a european initiative which offers college students the chance to travel and work abroad in europe. hundreds of PLC students applied, with 30 lucky students successful in their application to take part in this opportunity. Students had to complete a personal statement, attend an interview and also produce the required travel and vaccination documents. A huge congratulations to all 30 students who were selected!

These students are due to travel in February 2023. This all expenses paid trip, will prove to be a great experience for the learners. each student will

reside in luxury accommodation while they take part in their work placement. The students are currently studying a range of course areas in OFI such as Pre-University Teaching, Nursing, Sports and Psychology to name a few. On work placement, they

will get the opportunity to work in their course areas in a Spanish setting. To avail of such an opportunity is a huge benefit to students and will serve them well in their careers in the future.

To prepare for their upcoming trip, the students have begun

to learn some basic Spanish. everyone at Ó Fiaich Institute will be following their progress on social media. you can check out how they are getting on by following @OFIDundalk on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

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.

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.

SC TILIng—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed. Call Shane 086 107 5080.

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.

gARdEn MAInTEnAnCE—Hedge and Tree Cutting Services. Power Washing. Garden Tidy Up. Call Colin 085 1726520.

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

buILdIng SERvICES—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. for free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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.

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

gRIMLEy’S dubLIn ST. dundALk Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. free estimates 042 935 4343.

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 REPAIRS & STOvES—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing 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.

PROPERT y MAInTEnAnCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael on 085762-3758.

FIFI’S ALTERATIOnS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - fri 9.305.30pm & 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.

ALL-In-OnE!—Home and property maintenance and improvements. Painting, decorating, general household maintenance, exterior cleaning, power washing, gutters, dust free sanding, No job to big or small, quality but affordable service contact Ian 0874158238.

buILdER & HOME MAInTAInEnCE Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & fencing. No job to big or small. 087 295 2529.

POdIATRy/CHIROPOdy treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794.

PROFESSIOnAL dRyLInIng—Dropped Ceiling, Tape & Joints also all Insulation Services. Dundalk Tel 089-2488819 or 0894189199.

PAInTER AvAILAbLE—Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

PLASTERIng SERvICE AvAILAbLE free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

kEvIn McMAHOn ELECTRICAL—Dundalk, small household jobs, safe electrical approved Tel 087 2548221 after 5pm.

LOCAL POwER wASHIng—No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. Contact James 089 9705466 for free quotation.

C ARPET And uPHOLSTERy CLEAnIng—Home and Office contract cleaning. Over 10 years’ experience. RTM Cleaning Services contact Robbie 087 3817618.

gREEnFIELdS MuSIC TOuRS—Invite you to join for our 1 nights stays to see the cream of Irish folk and Ballads. Price includes accommodation, bus and ticket. Contact Anthony on 085 1204994.

L Ady wITH gIFT of Healing for Skin conditions, Eczema, Psoriasis, Chest problems, Asthma. 3 consecutive visits needed. for appointment please phone 087 7188450.

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.

Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information.

LInE dAnCIng—Beginner classes continue in Dowdallshill GAA hall every Tuesday night at 7pm. Classes also in the Boys Club Seatown Wednesday mornings at 10am. All welcome. Contact 087 2618773.

FREnCH gRIndS AvAILAbLE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340.

dRuM LESSOnS InCLudIng bOdHRAn for adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

bEgInnERS SEwIng CLASSES at DJK Creations Unit 3D Northlink Retail Park, Coe’s Road, Dundalk. Learn in a conducive and comfortable environment. for more information call/whatsapp 087 2649221 or visit www.djk-creations.com for more options.

PERSOn wAnTEd for work on small boat on a daily bases for general fishing, Cooley area, for enquires please email:53somethingnew@gmail.com.

SEwIng/FASHIOn Design Tutor wanted. To apply for position please call Elizabeth on 087 2649221 or email your CV to info@ djk-creations.com.

IRISH C ARER AvAILAbLE for private home care Work from 1sr february, Dundalk Blackrock area. Monday to friday flexible hours, mornings afternoons evenings. full clean driving license and own car, Garda vetted. Excellent references. Qualified in Palliative care, Care of the older Person, Care Support, manual handling, Infection prevention control. fully vaccinated. Ph 086 - 0555990.

LOuTH COunT y COunCIL—I, John McBride, intend to apply for full planning permission for infill development @ Crois Croinn, Saltown, Dundalk, Co. Louth. The development will consist of the construction of three apartment blocks in a mix of residential units. Block 1 consists of a three storey apartment building with a ground floor 5 Bed shared accommodation apartment, 6no. 1 Bed units, 2no. 2 Bed units and 2no. 3 Bed units. Block 2 consists of a three storey apartment building with 9no. 1 Bed units and 6no. 2 Bed units, Block 3 consists of a three and a half storey apartment building with 6no. 1 Bed units, 8no. 2 Bed units and 5no. 3 Bed units. full permission to including access road, car parking with provision for electric charge points, cycle storage and plant room bin storage outbuilding and all associated site development and drainage 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.

o’Fiaich institute students will travel to Spain next month.

Dundalk Sub Aqua Club begin training of six new recruits

By Ruth McEnteggart

DunDALk Sub-Aqua Club is a 24-hour service that was set up in 2001. They are a local group of divers who take part in local and national rescue missions whenever anybody gets in trouble on the water. They have recently taken on six new recruits.

They start training in October, and they are educated on health and safety then taken out to sea to perform a short snorkel. Dundalk Sub Aqua unit currently has 60 members and 22 fully certified members. Some of their members have been diving for up to 25 years and contribute a lot in terms of knowledge of local/national diving sites and experience in how to keep the club a vibrant and active one.

There is no age limit

to join the club, but applicants must be over 18 or over 16 if there already is a family member in the club. Anyone with an interest in joining can try a three-week free trial. This trial consists of trying on equipment, how a scuba suit works and finally taking a short snorkel in the sea.

Further progression in the club means more activities. Such as

learning what to do in specific situations such as someone falling off a boat or if a person is short of breath and how to communicate underwater. There are intensive training procedures undertaken by the trainees. each fully trained member undergoes five 10-meter dives, and slowly progresses up to a 45 metre dive.

They hold their training lectures in St

Vincent’s School on a Wednesday night at 7.30pm followed by pool training in Dundalk Leisure Centre pool at 9pm in the wintertime but move on to Greenore as soon as the evenings get brighter. In between local diving they occasionally travel further afield to dives sites in Donegal, Rathlin Island, Strangford Lough, and Scotland.

The six new trainees who recently began their journey towards certification.