26-01-2022

DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Ardee by-pass appeal defered Page 2

Tenants move to Halliday Mills

Family carers want Covid Bonus

Page 4

Haggardstown left in the dark

Page 8

Wednesday, 26th January, 2022. Vol. 15, Issue 4 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

By Paul Byrne

The chairman of Haggardstown Tidy Towns has urged the local authority to upgrade infrastructure and amenities in the area given the massive population growth in the area in recent years.

New housing developments have been built and are being built, making Haggardstown one of the fastest growing areas in Leinster but according to Shane McGuinness, basic needs such as adequate lighting have not been delivered to help cope with the extra footfall in the region.

“Haggardstown Tidy Towns set up last March and we have a very vibrant hardworking group of sixty volunteers who are doing their best to keep Haggardstown tidy. It’s a tough gig as with so many people here now there is obvioulsly been an increase in rubbish with PPE Continued on Page 2

Paddy’s fund-raiser makes waves in Carlingford

81-year-old Paddy Conaghan took to the water in Carlingford this week as part of his mission to swim at every beach and pier in Ireland. The ‘Ducking and Driving around Ireland’ fundraiser is all in honour of local counselling service ‘Gemma’s Legacy of Hope’ which was set up to support people of all ages in Donegal. Paddy has already raised over €75,000 and if you want to donate you can do so here: https://www.gofundme. com/f/ducking-driving-for-gemmaslegacy-of-hope.

Pic Credit: Eithne Ní Anluain.

Haggardstown left in the dark Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

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From Page 2 showing up everywhere unfortunately. I think the pandemic has made everybody much more aware of their surroundings because they’ve been at home more over the past couple of years.

As you know, Haggard-

stown has grown so much in recent years and is unrecognisable from what it looked like a few years ago. We have huge companies like Wuxi in our area as well as new housing estates popping up all over the place but

unfortunately our infrastructure and amenities are not moving along at the same pace.

“80% of Haggardstown is in darkness at night as there is nowhere near enough lighting in the area. We are relying on the lights from Wuxi to light up that whole area of Haggardstown which should not be the case. We have all these builders building 1000’s of houses and paying fees to the council but these fees are not being spent in our area to give us basic needs such as lighting. I would give a mention to Cannon Kirk builders who have built in

the area and improved the place by sponsoring roundabouts which was very welcome. But the core point remains that people don’t feel safe walking around Haggardstown and I would ask the council to come and see for themselves how unsafe the area is at night.

I also think children have been completely forgotten about here.

It is all well and good building houses and factories but where is the green spaces allocated for walks and for playgrounds for our kids.

We have a huge population of kids in the area now but there is no area

for them to play safely.

There is one park beside the community centre in Blackrock but apart from that there is nowhere close to us for kids to play,” explained Shane. We appreciate the support we get from local government with the guys that pick up our rubbish bags when we fill them but even they are understaffed and need help. There is probably 3000 people living in Haggrdstown now and that will at least double over the next three or four years.

We will be pretty much the same size as Ardee yet we are expected to walk at night in com-

plete darkness. We are getting no benefit from all these big factories coming into the area and it’s beyond time a plan was put in place to ensure that something is done to put infrastructure in place to reflect the pace at which Haggardstown is growing,” added Shane.

Fine Gael councillor Maria Doyle echoed Shane’s words saying that trying to get lighting in badly lit areas has proved nigh on impossible since she first became a councillor over ten years ago.

“I am constantly receiving emails from people asking for extra

lighting in their areas and at popular walking spots such as the Navvy Bank and Riverwalk Way. For some reason Louth County Council have been extremely reluctant to install lighting when asked by councillors. For me this is a basic requirement but unlike repairing footpaths etc which they commit to year in year out they don’t seem to see lighting as a necessity. I have asked before on numerous occasions for extra lighting in particular areas and it’s not just the cost of installing the lights that seem to be an issue but also the running costs

as well,” explained Maria. I did manage to get lighting installed at Rock Road recently but that was through the Town and Villages project which is nationally funded. We are trying to promote walking and cycling but if areas are not lit well enough people are understandably not going to go out and put themselves at risk. As Shane says Haggardstown is growing at a huge rate and I agree with him that more needs to be done by the local authority to make sure it is safe for people in the area with regards to lighting,” stated Cllr Doyle.

N52 Ardee Bypass appeal deferred

By Tamara O’Connell

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THE Friends of Ardee Bog campaign group said the High Court has deferred a case which centres on the proposed N52 Ardee Bypass until February 23 next.

Friends of Ardee Bog campaign group have initiated an application for a Judicial review of An Bord Pleanala’s decision not to direct Louth County Council to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment Report in relation to the proposed N52 Ardee Bypass road scheme.

The N52 bypass route cuts through the

Friends of Ardee Bog Fiona, Katie and Anne after their talk with Minister Malcolm Noonan. proposed National Heritage Area of Ardee Bog and a designated Flood zone under Office of Public Works

floodmaps.ie 2012.

According to Friends of Ardee Bog campaign group, there is recorded evidence, over the last

three years, of the lapwing and the red-listed curlew feeding on Ardee Bog. The curlew is iconic

Hospitality sector rejoice as restrictions are eased Louth’s hospitality industry have enjoyed their first weekend without Covid restrictions in almost two years following the governments announcement which confirmed the easing of restrictions last Friday evening.

Almost all Covid measures including the need for a Covid certificate for bars and restaurants, 8pm curfew, and social distancing rules were all ended with a state of the nation address from Micheal Martin bringing joy rather than the

usual dread his speeches had brought previously during the pandemic.

The news was greeted with joy locally as the hospitality industry locally looked forward to operating as normal following twenty two months of restrictions.

The business community also welcomed the easing of restrictions with IBEC welcoming the announcement which they hoped would signal greater personal responsibility for individuals and autonomy for businesses in their office operations in this

next phase.

IBEC CEO Danny McCoy stated: “After many challenging months, it is welcome to be able to acknowledge the progress that our society and business has made collectively to reach the point whereby Government are announcing an easing of most Covid public health restrictions. This will mark an important next step towards recovery for many industries, including the Experience Economy which bore much of the burden of previous restrictions.

is Ireland, however, Birdwatch Ireland has noted a very rapid decline in curlew numbers (97 per cent in last

40 years) - mainly due to loss of habitat.

The lapwing, who also favours wetlands, has been noted feeding here. According to Friends of Ardee Bog campaign group, these two birds are two visible examples of the importance of this habitat to nature and the vibrant ecosystem this particular wet peatland support.

In a statement issued

by Friends of Ardee Bog campaign group, a spokesperson said: “A project of this magnitude, which will permanently excavate the wet peatlands and remove this unique feeding site, needs.

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New migrant community Joy for new tenants as Halliday project opens in Ardee Mills key handover takes place

By Tamara O'Connell

Cultúr, a migrant-led organisation, has opened an office in Ardee as part of its new ‘Migrant Network Community Project’.

Based in Navan, Cultúr works in the North East region with migrants, asylum seekers and refugees promoting equal rights and opportunities to develop an intercultural community.

According to Tinu Achioya, a Co-ordinator for the Cultúr project, the organisation has 20 years of experience.

“We have opened an office in the Dee Hub Centre on Market Street in Ardee and we have a drop-in centre for migrants every Thursday from 11am to 1pm,” said Tinu.

“The project will raise awareness of, and challenge social exclusion and inequality experienced by local migrant communities and vulnerable groups to proactively create opportunities to address the intersecting issues of poverty, racism

Tinu Achioya. and isolation.

“A key area of focus of this project is to simultaneously enhance the participation, resilience and empowerment of ethnic and minority groups, while also developing and strengthening their capacity to develop partnerships to engage and work in collaboration with key decisionmakers and NGOs in the community.”

She added: “In order to implement this project and contribute

to the objectives of the Community Development Programme, we opened a new office in Louth.

“The foundation of this project is rooted in Cultúr’s strategic plan which identifies the need for the positive integration of migrant communities into mainstream society and the capacitybuilding of local communities to reach out to and engage marginalised communities.

“Using a participative, bottom-up community work approach, this project will enable migrant groups and ethnic led-community group leaders to challenge existing and emerging issues by amplifying their voices and providing opportunities for more meaningful engagement with mainstream services.

“The project seeks to address gaps in existing provisions of services to vulnerable and marginalised groups.”

For more information contact Angel on 087-3315169 or email angel@cultur.ie.

Elaine McCann and Leanne Crosby were among close to 40 people to receive their keys this week at Halliday Mills, Quay St. Dundalk.

Halliday Mills is an apartment complex recently renovated by Co-operative Housing Ireland.

New residents will become Members of Cooperative Housing Ireland, an Approved Housing Body (AHB) which worked closely with Louth County Council to deliver the project.

The opening of Halliday Mills brings to an end the Ard Dealgan nightmare which was an eyesore as well as a magnet for anti-social behaviour on Quay St. since 2009, when tenants were ordered to leave their apartments due to fire risks in the Tom McFeely built complex.

Elaine McCann, who just received the keys of her new home was looking forward to moving into her new apartment. “I’m look-

ing forward to getting space for me and my daughter. It’ll be great to get our own space to do our own thing.”

Halliday Mills is an apartment complex of 85 BER A3 rated onebed, two-bed and threebed apartments delivered by CHI in partnership with Louth County Council, with support from the Housing Agency, the Housing Finance agency and the Department of Housing, in response to need in the area. The complex has been totally refurbished with additions of insulation, new windows and doors, and air-to-water heat pumps, among other features. It has an ideal location as it is situated on the coast, only a 5-minute drive to Dundalk town centre. CHI is an Approved Housing Body (AHB) and works closely with various stakeholders in the housing sector, including Local Authorities, Government, aspiring homeowners, tenants and developers,

Elaine McCann. to provide high quality social-rented and home ownership co-operative homes across the country. Image: Conor Healy, Picture it Photography Leanne Crosby, who just received the keys of her new home was also delighted ahead of her big move.

“I’m looking forward to having my own freedom and getting my own independence.

When I got the contact [from the local authority], I was very happy.

It’s time I can basically start my life. I was liv-

Leanne Crosby. ing at home with my parents, my brother and sister.”

Halliday Mills is an apartment complex of 85 BER A3 rated onebed, two-bed and threebed apartments delivered by CHI in partnership with Louth County Council, with support from the Housing Agency, the Housing Finance agency and the department of Housing in response to need in the area. The complex has been totally refurbished with additions of insulation, new windows and

doors, and air-to-water heat pumps, among other features. It has an ideal location as it is situated on the coast, only a 5-minute drive to Dundalk town centre. CHI is an Approved Housing Body (AHB) and works closely with various stakeholders in the housing sector, including Local Authorities, Government, aspiring homeowners, tenants and developers, to provide high quality social-rented and home ownership co-operative homes across the country.

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Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

€2.9m for Louth primary and post primary schools

€2.9 million has been allocated for ten Louth primary and post primary schools under the 2022 Summer Works Programme.

Six primary schools and four post-primary schools in Louth are set to benefit from the programme.

Minister for Education Norma Foley TD has announced funding of €65 million for the approval of almost 500 projects to improve infrastructure under the 2022 Summer Works Scheme nationwide.

The money will go towards mechanical, electrical and external works, window replacement as well as roof repairs and improvements.

The Minister said she was announcing the projects now so that the schools have a good lead-in period to plan

News

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Library Events

Minister Norma Foley. and deliver the projects during the summer months.

The ten schools in Louth who will benefit from the funding include Tallanstown N.S (Electrical works), Kilsaran N.S (Electrical works), Blackrock N.S (Mechanical works), Bellurgan N.S (Electri-

cal works), Rathcorr N.S (Windows), Redeemer Girls School (Mechanical works), Coláiste Rís Primary (External environment), De La Salle secondary (Electrical works), St Vincents Secondary School (Electrical works), St Louis Secondary school (Windows).

Master the menopause / The heat is on – eating for the menopause and beyond Zoom Workshop with Glenville Nutrition Wednesday 26th of January at 7pm. The menopause can be a time of upheaval for many women, with symptoms from hot flushes and mood swings to weight gain, sometimes starting years beforehand.

While the much-maligned menopause is no longer a taboo subject, this natural phase in our lives often shoulders the blame for many other health and lifestyle issues too. Find out how to know if you are in the menopause or perimenopause and what you can do to naturally smooth your transition as much as possible. To book your place Tel : 042 9353190 or Email : libraryhelpdesk@ louthcoco.ie

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

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Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

Family Carers Ireland want Covid bonus for their members ers, once and for all, that the Government recognises their value and contribution in society and acknowledge them as the forgotten frontline workers that they are,” stated Catherine.

Lisamarie Hodgins from the Castletown Road in Dundalk is a full time carer for her two daughters who both have additional needs. 12-year old Séanadh has a rare condition called 3P syndrome and a number of health difficulties including learning disabilities, deafness in one ear and having to use a wheelchair.

Séanadh’s younger sister Keelyrose was recently diagnosed with autism and according to Lisamarie the fact that she wasn’t including for the bonus was a real slap in the face for her and others home carers around the country.

“It’s not even about the money to be honest. It’s just another slap in the face really for us and another sign that the government don’t care about us whatsoever.

Leo Varadkar is talking about making the state pension available for care workers but that should be a given. We have been Lisamarie Hodgins with daughters Séanadh and Keelyrose.

fighting tooth and nail for services for our children for years and everything is such a struggle.

The pandemic was particularly tough for us as the girls were at home a lot more than they usually would be and I was afraid they would regress. Luckily we have a back garden which my husband worked a lot on to give them somewhere to play outside but it is just a bit galling that the government haven’t recognised our contribution in caring for kids who are probably at a higher risk than others during the worst of the pandemic. We didn’t get as much as a box of protective gloves from the government during the pandemic and now they have ignored us with this covid bonus payment. It’s just tough to take,” stated Lisamarie.

A second local carer who cares full-time for his seven-year-old son has said he feels he doesn’t “deserve” the Covid bonus payment.

James Elliot from Dundoogan, Dundalk has been caring fulltime for his son, Alex, since he was diagnosed with Autism.

Alex attends Kilsaran NS and is non-verbal.

“Everyone has a different story to tell. The bonus we have is he sleeps. We look at the good side.

Some parents of Autistic children might only get two hours sleep per night,” said James.

“He’s very good but you never know which way the day is going to go. That’s the cards we have been dealt. We can’t start the morning bickering and moaning.

“I don’t think we deserve the Covid bonus payment. My other half, Milena, works in the Lourdes Hospital. She’s frontline and has been going into rooms where people have Covid.”

James added: “She deserves the payment. Milena thinks the same as me. We found Alex’s diagnosis very hard to accept in the beginning. But these are the cards we were dealt.

“Every bit helps. If I was offered the Covid bonus payment I wouldn’t turn it down but I don’t feel I deserve it. Other parents might tell you different. Maybe other parents do deserve it.”

QUIZ 1—What is the name of the largest Stock Exchange in the world.

2—Which best-selling singer appeared in films such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fight Club and Wayne’s World?

3—The ‘Shekel’ is the currency of which country?

4—‘For what is a man? What has he got? If not himself - Then he has naught’ is a lyric from which popular song?

5—25 Cromwell Street, Gloucester aka the ‘House of Horrors’ will forever be linked with which infamous couple?

6—The McCaughey Brothers from Dungannon began building what estate in Dundalk in 1967?

7—Part of which desert is located

primarily in south-eastern California?

8—Besides Thailand, which two countries have coasts on the Gulf of Thailand?

9—Where would you find the Trapezium bone?

10—Which town is the largest in county Fermanagh and also home to the Clinton Centre?

Stinker—Roughly how old is planet earth?

answers 1—New York Stock Exchange, 2—Meatloaf, 3—Israel, 4—My Way-Frank Sinatra, 5—Fred and Rose West, 6—Cox’s Demesne, 7—Mojave, 8—Cambodia and Vietnam, 9—Hand, 10—Enniskillen. Stinker: Roughly 4.6 billion years old.

Family Carers Ireland has called on the Government to recognise the vital role of family carers during Covid-19 in helping to keep loved ones safe by extending the €1,000 Covid bonus to all full time family carers. Last week the government announced that public healthcare workers who worked on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic are to receive a once-off €1,000 tax free payment. However, healthcare workers who worked from home have been excluded from the bonus plan which has angered many sectors including Family Carers Ireland.

Catherine Cox, from Family Carers Ireland called it a missed opportunity by the government to recognise the value of family carers in society.

“Our frontline workers have worked incredibly hard to keep the health system running under severe pressure from Covid and emergency care and they deserve this recognition.

“What strikes me most is that this is yet again another missed opportunity to show family car-

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you

Phone: 0429320888; Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

Dark motorways part of plan to reduce emissions You may have noticed that large sections of the M1 have been much darker than normal over the past couple of years with long stretches of the busy motorway either in darkness or been lit by dimmed bulbs.

According to Transport Infrastructure Ireland this has been done in response to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive asking countries to cut greenhouse emissions. As well as reducing emissions the move is expected to cut electricity bills by €1 million a year Lighting has been dimmed or turned off at many junctions in response to the government’s Climate Action Plan in 2019, which sets out Ireland’s approach to delivering the 30% energy efficiency savings required by the Directive by 2030.

According to the Transport Infrastructure Ireland the operation of these junctions have been monitored for a

lengthy period of time and the conclusion has been reached that there is no danger to drivers safety despite the lack of lighting.

“Recognising that Government must take a lead role in the process, the Climate Action Plan sets a higher target reduction of 50% for the public sector.

“In order to meet the ambitious challenges set down in these publications, TII has undertaken a review of its energy usage, examining each consumption type across all business areas in order to identify where energy and associated cost savings can be achieved.

“Electricity consumption on lighting on national roads and tunnels represents approximately 45% of the total electrical energy use for TII and has, accordingly, become an important focus in terms of meeting the energy efficiency requirements. TII has, therefore, developed a strategy that is focussed on the implementation of targeted measures which include switching off lights which are deemed to be surplus to those required under current standards, dimming and the replacement of existing fittings with more energy efficient LED technology.

“As part of this strat-

egy, a pilot scheme was initiated by TII under which surplus lighting was switched off at four junctions on the motorway network, which included Junction 6 on the M1. Following a year of operation and monitoring, no adverse effects were reported due to the implementation of the pilot scheme. In August 2018, surplus lighting was also switched off at 24 additional junctions along the motorway network, including Junctions 4 and 5 on the M1.

“The operation of these junctions has also been monitored and a study of the collision rate at the junctions where lighting has been switched off has concluded that there has been no reduction in operational road safety.

I can confirm that lighting was switched off between Junctions 3 and 4 along the M1 in June 2021. TII is actively monitoring these junctions,” read a response from TII.

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Brigid of Faughart Festival

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The Brigid of Faughart Festival invites you to join in the celebration of Brigid, Goddess and Saint around her feast day Lá Fhéile Bhride Feb 1st the festival of Imbolc 2022 as winter loses its grip and signs of Spring appears.

This year we are offering a combination of in person and online events which reflects Brigid’s capacity to always find a creative way to resolve an issue The Annual pilgrimage walk from Sally Cox’s house on Mount Avenue Dundalk to Faughart Shrine will take place at 11am on Sunday Jan 30th. Please arrive by 10:50am The pilgrimage walk passes through Fatima, Toberona and over to Faughart. Booking on wwwbrigidoffaughart.ie A guided tour of the sacred sites of Faughart Shrine A91Y771 takes place at 2.30pm on Sunday 30th Jan. Booking on www.brigidoffaughart.ie Other traditional ways to celebrate Brigid’s Day include leaving a piece of cloth Brat Bhride, outside on the Eve of Brigid’s day so that Brigid will bless it as she wanders through the land. This cloth can be used for healing.

Roisin Cotter will offer an online Cross making video which can be viewed on www.brigidoffaughart.ie from Jan 25th At 8pm on the evening of Tuesday, 1st of February the Brigid of Faughart Festival in association with An Táin Arts Centre in Dundalk will host‘Cruinniú Lá Fhéile Bhríde – Gathering under Brigid’s Mantle’ This event will celebrate Brigid and her importance within the soul consciousness of Ireland. This event weaves a beautiful and inspiring tapestry of Brigid and her qualities which are still relevant to our current life challenges through music, song, story, poetry movement, short talks and guided mediation.

Speaking on behalf of the festival group Dolores Whelan said “We look forward to presenting a joyful evening of music, art, meditations and talks to celebrate Brigid’s Day, and the return of her vibrant energy of springtime and new beginnings. ”We trust that this event will bring much needed hope and courage into our world today.”

Contributors on the night will include Soprano Eve Bourton and Harpist Chuchung, singers Ann McDonald and Deirdre Ni Chinneide, there will be uplifting poetry from Dundalk writers group and from Siobhan MacMahon, inspiring words from Phyllida Anam Aire and Dolores Whelan, stories of Brigid from Ruth Marshall, movement With Nicola Moran and guided mediation with intuitive coach Geraldine Whelan O’Meara Paul Hayes, Director of An Táin Arts Centre says “we are delighted to be working with the Brigid of Faughart festival again this year.

We are really excited to be hosting their online celebration of Brigid.

Although it is a very challenging time for the Arts, events such as these can reach a lot more people internationally.’

Tickets are €10 plus €1.50 booking fee and can be purchased from An Táin Arts Centre box office on 042 933 2332 and online at www.antain.ie Once the ticket is bought the event can be viewed and enjoyed until the 8th Feb

St Brigid’s Annual Procession cancelled

The Annual Candlelight Procession from Faughart Cemetary at the summit of Faughart Hill to St. Brigid’s Shrine and stream will not take place this year due to concerns around Covid.

Last year was the first year in 45 years that the walk did not take place and this year it has been cancelled again with one of the organisers Paddy Whyte asking people to stay at home and say a few prayers to comfort all those who have been affected by coronavirus since the start of the pandemic.

It is hoped that the 46th renewal of the walk will take place in 2023.

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

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Family Notices in memoriam

CLARKE 8th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Bernard Clarke, late of Chestnut Grove, Dunleer, whose anniversary occurs on 1st February.

Just a prayer from the Family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, But God only knows we miss you, In our home that is lonely today.

—From your sister and family.

CONLON 18th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of our dear Mother, Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Conlon late of 18 Hughes Park, whose anniversary occurred 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.

You’re memory is our greatest treasure, to love, to cherish and keep forever.

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

In the shelter of Your Sacred Heart, Sweet Jesus may she rest.

—Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving Family.

Set dancing classes

Set dancing classes will return this Tuesday in Clan Na Gael Hall in Dundalk at 8:30pm. Classes are for all ages and beginners are welcome. For further details call 0872217494.

in memoriam

MATHEWS Gerry 1st ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of my dear husband Gerry Matthews, late of Legion Avenue, Dundalk, who died 1st February 2021.

We sat beside your bedside, Our hearts were crushed and sore We did our best to the end, ’Til we could do no more.

In tears we watched you shrinking, We watched you fade away, And though our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay.

You left behind some aching hearts, That loved you most sincere, You never said goodbye to us, Perhaps it’s just as well, For how could we have said goodbye, To the one we loved so well.

We think of you in silence, We often call you name, But all that’s left to answer, Is your face in a picture frame.

No verse was ever written, No verse will ever say, How much we love and miss you, Each and every day.

—Sadly missed by your loving wife May; sons Stephen and Brian; daughters Karen and Elaine; grandchildren Kelly, Jude, Emily, Arron, Daniel and Benjiman; daughters-inlaw Donna and Terri; son-inlaw Michael. Anniversary Mass Sunday 30th January in St. Nicholas Church 12.30pm.

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). M.T. 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. 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). N.A.

Council consider banning dogs and horses from blue flag beaches LOUTH County Council (LCC) is considering a ban on dogs and horses from the county’s blue flag beaches.

Three beaches situated at Port, Templetown and Clogherhead in Co Louth are Blue Flag beaches.

The blue flag beaches provide a safe environment for locals and visitors alike to enjoy swimming, water sports and a great day at the beach.

“These matters are under consideration at present,” said Paula Gribben, LCC Social,

Community and Environmental Awareness Section.

“Louth County Council already have Foreshore Byelaws in place which among other things address the management of animals on the foreshore.”

A restriction on dogs and horses from blue flag beaches might be necessary for the retention of blue flag status in 2022.

It is understood the restrictions will not be extended to guide and assistance dogs.

PROPERTY/RENTALS

special services

special services

ATTENTION—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor.

087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT To Rent.

Dundalk town centre. GFCH. Call after 4pm.

Tel. 087 292 8247.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOUSE Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5.

Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE— Building, Woodwork, Painting, Plumbing, Tiling, Kitchen Refurbishments, Paving & Fencing. No job to big or too small. Tel. 087 295 2529.

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. 086 818 4827.

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 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.

Coaching with Esther—Life and Executive Coach Tel 086 8972007 www. coachingwithesther.com.

Qualified Carpenter available for Floors, Doors, Frames, Architraves, Skirtings, Stud Walls, Roofing & All Building Repairs. No Job too big or too small. Call Mark 086 089 5508.

ALL INN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE— Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Mick 085-762-3758.

WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

Fifi’s Alterations—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 0118728.

Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Wed 9.30 - 5.30pm, Thur & Fri 9.30 - 6pm & Sat 102pm.

J. King Plumbing—Heating & Property Maintenance Tel 086 6086327 or 042 9377775.

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.

“MARRY ME”—Valentines Cakes with any wording only €29. Wedding cakes & cakes for all occasions. “Your Photo” toppers just €6 extra. Tel 087 3228790 Omeath.

Local Power Washing—No job too big or too small. Patios, Driveways, walls, etc Contact James 086 8930086 or 089 9615606 for free quotation.

BIRTHDAY Cakes €29—Personalised, Themed & your wording. Cakes for any occasions, including Wedding Cakes.

“Your Photo” toppers just €6 extra. Tel 087 3228790 Omeath.

GARDENING, LANDSCAPING—Hedges sowed, flower beds tided up and new bulbs planted, general property maintenance, exterior painting and decking cleaned. Dundalk & District. Tel. 086 3818184.

articles for sale 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.

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.

4 FOOT 6 DOUBLE Bed For Sale. Wine headboard & base. As good as new. Tel. 086 361 4243.

SELL IT THROUGH A CLASSIFIED—Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

TWO FIRESIDE CHAIRS For Sale. Tel. 042 935 2962 (between 2-7pm).

special services CHIMNEY & STOVE CLEANING—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094 Email tribalky@yahoo.com <mailto:tribalky@ yahoo.com>.

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.

WINDOW CLEANING—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates.

Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>.

HOUSE & APARTMENT CLEANING Service.

Specializing in Re-Let & Spring Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery cleaning. Fully insured.

For a free quotation contact Everkleen 042 9352717 / 087 6873188, www.everkleenservices.ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>.

TILER AVAILABLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile work - marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

GRIMLEY’S DUBLIN ST. DUNDALK— Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343.

DUNDALK GARDEN SERVICES—Tree topping, felling, hedge trimming, grass cutting & strimming. Rubbish Removals/Garage clearance, House & Garden refuse. Permit holder. Contact Ben 085-840-7707.

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.

tuition

MATHS GRINDS—Leaving and junior certificate. All levels. One on one tuition with an experienced tutor. Phone/text 083 094 1872.

personal

Happy-go-lucky easy going country man, early 50s seeks female companion for walks, talks and occasional outings, must be light hearted, have no ties and enjoy the simple things in life. For further information please leave contact details to Box No. 214 C/O Dundalk Leader 63 Clanbrassil St., Dundalk.

ADVERTISE in our classifieds

to over 50,000 readers from only €5 per week up to 20 words Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

Brigid of Faughart Festival returns to An Táin Arts Centre An Táin Arts Centre are delighted to host two events as part of the Brigid of Faughart Festival 2022, Cruinniú Lá Fhéile Bríde an online celebration of Brigid,Goddess and Saint. At 8pm on Tuesday 1st of February and The Red Torc Performance By Nicola Moran An Táin Arts Centre’s Circus Performer and Aerialist in Residence in the Basement Gallery on Tuesday 1st of February between 10am and 3pm.

Cruinniú Lá Fhéile Bríde Online Screening at 8pm on Tuesday 1st of February.

An evening of Music, Art, Meditations and Talks We gather under Brigid’s mantle, celebrating her return

as the maiden of springtime at Imbolc, in song, poetry and movement.

In this event we invoke her protection, her guidance and her trailblazing energy as she breathes new life into the mouth of dead winter. This online event is being streamed via

An Táin Arts Centre on Tuesday 1st February at 8pm. Tickets cost €10 + €1.50 booking fee per device. Online sales will cut off at 7pm.

Booking over the telephone at 042 9332332 or www.antain.ie The Red Torc by Nicola Moran

A free performance in the Basement Gallery 10am – 3pm Tuesday 1st February The Red Torc Performance is an environmental piece, by An Táin Arts Centre’s Circus Performer and Aerialist in Residence Nicola Moran, exploring themes of destruction – on both the natural world, and also its impact on us as people.

In this performance Nicola wears a Torc of red ice walking up on down the Basement Gallery over the course of a day, her ice jewellery melted and dried in rivulets down her body and onto the tiled floor of what was the old gaol. (2022) No booking is required for ‘The Red Torc’.

Drogheda Institute Virtual Open Day Thursday, 27th January 2022, 6.30pm– 8.30pm Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE) is the largest Further Education and Training (FET) provider in the North East Region, providing a wide range of PLC & Pre-University courses to school leavers and adults returning to education.

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..

All new courses having excellent progression links to employment and/or related

Join DIFE for a virtual open day on the 27th January between 6:30pm and 8:30pm degrees in Universities/ Media, Digital Video & IT’s here in Ireland, UK Photography; Pre-University Arts with Jour& Europe.

Level 5—Pre-Uni- nalism; Pre-University versity Teaching; Pro- Animal & Agricultural fessional Make Up Science; Digital Mar& Hairstyling; Pre- keting & Computing University PE Teach- Studies.

Level 6—Advanced ing & Sports Studies; Forensic Science & Business & ComputCriminology; Creative ing Studies; Advanced

Exercise & Sports Performance (NECF, accredited by UL); Advanced Health & Social Studies; Dental Nursing.

To apply for any of the courses visit the college website: www. dife.ie If you are interested in any of the current or new courses, join DIFE’s Virtual Open Day event on the 27th January 2022, 6.30pm– 8.30pm and hear from the college staff, explore the state of the art facilities and learn about the exciting opportunities available in DIFE. The link to the online session will be published on the college website and social media platforms on the day of the event.

Independent Councillor Maeve Yore is proud to contribute to a new Defibrillator from her allocation funds for Oglaigh Naisiunta na hEireann Ex-Service Personnel. Councillor Yore attended the National Annual Convention in Dundalk and heard first hand of all the great work that this organisation does for ex-service personnel locally and nationally. She said ‘ I think that it is very important that we as a people and a nation help and support those from the Irish Defence Forces who protected and represented us at home and abroad with such distinction and I look forward to working with Jim, Mick, Pat, Tony and all involved in the Michael McNeela Branch ONE on future worthwhile projects. The Michael McNeela Branch thanks Councillor Maeve Yore for her past and continued support to ONE.

13

Average 32% increase of fuel prices in past year At present, fuel prices remain close to the highest levels ever recorded, according to figures compiled

by AA Ireland. They show that the average price of petrol is 170.3 cents per litre and diesel is 160.5 cents per litre on average.

“Looking at the figures for January 2021, the average price of fuel stood at 129.9 cents for petrol and 120.8 cents for diesel. This means the price of petrol has increased by 31% in the past year, and there has been a 33% increase in the price of diesel,” says Anna Cullen from AA Ireland.

“The prices this month are on par with December 2021, with a negligible decrease of about 1%. They are down by 1.5% on November figures, when AA Ireland reported record high fuel prices,” Cullen adds.

Currently, Ireland is the 17th most expensive country in the world for fuel and 12th in Europe. The most expensive are Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Israel, Norway, Finland, Denmark,

Hill Street, Dublin Rd., Dundalk.

the UK, Greece, Iceland and Sweden.

60% (two-thirds) of the price paid at the pumps is tax and this includes VAT and carbon tax. And, keep in mind it can take two weeks for any reductions to reach the pumps.

Then, there is the cost of oil as well as production.

In early 2020, members of OPEC Plus (a large group of oil exporting nations), agreed to cut output by about 10 million barrels a day (bpd) due to the lack of demand.

However, demand for oil has risen significantly and will continue to rise this year. The difficulty is that oil producers aren’t keeping up with this demand, causing prices to stay high.

This is evident as the cost of a barrel of Brent Crude Oil is now at $85 (€75).

On Friday (22nd), the cost rose to $88 – the highest seen since 2014.

“Each month since the pandemic hit, OPEC Plus members have met to set output quotas. In July 2021, the group set out plans to

042 9331515/086 2559201

raise the overall output by 400,000 barrels a day (bpd) each month – but they have been missing the targets,” says Cullen.

Despite missing the targets, they met again last Tuesday (18th) and agreed to stick with its planned increase for February.

In its monthly report, OPEC said this year’s demand rise will take oil use above pre-pandemic levels. On an annual basis, according to OPEC, the world last used over 100 million bpd of oil in 2019.

“Unless supply meets demand, fuel prices will remain high in Ireland and across the world. We don’t see fuel prices coming down any time soon which is really concerning for consumers. We also have to look at our taxation system – 60% at the pumps is a very high figure, so it is within the remit of the Government to ease the pressure on prices that consumers pay,” Cullen adds.

By AA Ireland.

14

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

15

Dundalk Leader 26th January 2022

16

JANUARY 2022 SALE FINAL REDUCTIONS — SALE MUST END SUNDAY

DARLENE—Italian grey fabric corner group with reclining end seats RRP €2999 SALE PRICE €1999

DHALIA—Italian fabric sofa bed in grey or blue with built pocket sprung mattress RRP €1999 now €1099

NEW YORK—3 + 2 Reclining Sofas In Microfibre Fabric Rrp €2899 now €1599 OTHER COMBINATIONS AVAILABLE

final reductions RELAX—Set 4'6ft Divan Base Matching Headboard And 800 Pocket Sprung Mattress Rrp €799 SALE PRICE €349 Other Sizes Available

CHELSEA—CHELSEA 1m round table with 4 fabric dining chairs of your choice RRP €1299 SALE PRICE €799

ON ALL RECLINING CHAIRS, SLIDEROBES, MIRRORS, PICTURES AND ACCESSORIES

ROME—1.4m dark wood rectangle table and 4 fabric dining chairs RRP €999

SALE PRICE €499

SLEEPWELL—Set 4'6ft Divan Base Matching Headboard And 1400 Pocket Sprung Mattress Rrp €1099 SALE PRICE €549 Other Sizes Available

OKA LIFE—1.8M oak extending table and 6 dining chairs RRP €1999 SALE PRICE €899