27-03-2024

Dundalk’s secondary schools oversubscribed Page

Olympic Shame

Devastation for Amy as lifelong Olympic Dream goes up in flames

By Paul Byrne

EVER since she started boxing 22 years ago, Muirhevnamór’s World Champion Amy Broadhurst has dreamed of representing her country at the Olympic Games. Those dreams were fueled further in 2012 when her hero Katie Taylor visited Coláiste Rís, where Amy went to school, to show off her newly acquired Olympic Gold medal.

Now however, those dreams look to be shattered following a phonecall received by Broadhurst last Wednesday as she was driving home from the High Performance

Unit in Dublin. IABA High Performance director Tricia Heberle called Amy explaining that neither she nor O’Rourke would be assessed and that Tullamore’s Grainne Walsh had instead been chosen in the 66KG for the upcoming qualifying tournament in Bangkok.

Broadhurst’s natural weight class is 60kg but reigning Olympic Champion Kellie Harrington fights in that class and with no 63kg category in the Olympics, the Muirhevnamór southpaw was forced to realise her dream of Olympic qualification in the 66Kg category.

Continued on Page 2

Barring a last minute U-Turn from IABA it looks like Amy Broadhurst’s Olympic dream is over after she was overlooked for assessment.

Devastation for Amy Broadhurst

From Page 1

She suffered a setback last summer at the European Games when she lost to England’s Rosie Eccles at the quarter final stage when a win would have seen her automatically qualify for the Olympics in Paris. However, a shoulder injury during those games hindered her efforts and she was told by IABA Head Coach Zauri Anita to get herself fit and ready for March this year when she would be given a chance to qualify for Paris through the final qualification competition in Thailand.

Selection for the coveted spot in the 66kg category was seemingly between Broadhurst, Grainne Walsh and Aoife O’Rourke but last Wednesday Broad-

hurst was told that she won’t be considered for assessment by High Performance Director Trish Heberle which has caused huge controversy in national boxing circles.

Broadhurst’s record as an amateur is truly remarkable winning 13 national titles before announcing herself on the world stage with gold medals at the World, European and Commonwealth championships.

A gold at last year’s prestigious Strandja tournament copper fastened Broadhurst’s claims for a place on the team and now her father and coach Tony Broadhurst wants an explanation given the fact his daughter had been promised she would get a chance to try and qualify for Paris in May’s final qualification competition in Bangkok.

“We are meeting with Zauri and Trish tomorrow (Tuesday 26th) and we will be asking them to explain their decision,” stated an angry

Tony speaking on Monday.

“Amy did everything that was asked of her. She was told by Zauri to stay fit and get her weight down for March 22nd ahead of an assessment for qualification. She did all that and then rather than Zauri having the balls to tell her to her face at the High Performance Unit on Wednesday, Amy got the news she wouldn’t be considered for as-

sessment via a phonecall from Australia as she was driving home from training. “We were worried sick as we didn’t hear anything at all from Amy until midnight as she was so devastated upon hearing the news. She might has well have got a phonecall telling her a family member had died. This was everything to her. Since the age of 5 she has devoted her life to boxing and

her three goals were to represent Ireland at the Olympics, become a World Champion and to be named Best Boxer at a major tournament. She ticked two of those boxes but it looks like she will never fulfil her main goal now,” explained Tony.

“She has been continuously promised that she would get an opportunity to qualify and when I heard that had been taking away from her I immediately rang the IABA Head Coach

Zhari Anita asking for an explanation. He gave me two points as to how he and Trish had come to their decision but what he was saying was completely inaccurate and I came back at him with facts which clearly showed that.

“Their reasons make no sense. On the one hand you’ve got a World, European and Commonwealth Champion and a girl who has won gold for Ireland in four of the last 5 tournaments she has represented her country. On the other you have a

boxer (Grainne Walsh) who has not medaled for Ireland in over four years. These are the facts.

We meet with Zhari and Trish tomorrow and we will listen to what they say but there will be no handshake at the end of the meeting or any niceness about it. They need to be made accountable. I know that Central Council have ordered an emergency meeting about this situation off the back of the furore the decision has caused with BBC and multiple media outlets covering the story.

“Things have snowballed and Trish and Zhari are going to have to explain how they have come to this decision. It’s not right, it’s not fair and Amy is heartbroken. Her dreams have been crushed because of the politics of the sport and this is more than likely the end of the road now for her in the amateur game ,” concluded Tony.

Worry for parents as report shows most secondary schools in Dundalk are oversubscribed

Most of Dundalk secondary schools are fully or oversubscribed according to an unpublished Department of Education report.

The report, which was revealed in the Irish Times, is ‘very worrying for Dundalk parents’, Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú says.

The Dundalk deputy said the report showed that Dundalk Grammar School, St Mary’s College and Coláiste Rís were oversubscribed for September 2023, while Coláiste Chú Chulainn was fully subscribed and the status of St Vincent’s Secondary School (with 905 students) and Bush PP (with 815 students) was unknown.

Only St Louis secondary school (with 492 students) and Ó Fiaich College (with 289 students) are undersubscribed.

Deputy Ó Murchú said parents are ‘rightly worried’ about getting a school place for their children in coming years.

He also highlighted the fact that parents with children with special educational needs are facing ‘an even tougher battle’ with many of the autism units and classes in secondary schools oversubscribed.

He said: ‘We are in this situation because of a direct failure of a broken modelling system, that focuses on capacity in existing schools, while failing to take demographic changes or decades of long underresourcing of schools

into account.

‘Many parents and their children, who in some cases live within metres of their school, are not able to secure a school place for the next school year.

‘It is placing avoidable stress and pressure on families and they deserve better.

‘Oversubscription of schools naturally equates to increased class sizes and we all know the detrimental impacts large class sizes can have on a child’s education, particularly those with special educational needs.

‘They create barriers to effective learning and hinder students’ academic and personal development.

‘Sinn Féin believe that smaller class sizes in Louth are vital as they can facilitate greater student participation and engagement.

‘Smaller class size will help increase individual attention and make it harder for students, particularly those with spe-

cial educational needs, to get left behind and this in turn will lead to enhanced academic performance.

‘Government must address this crisis immediately. Every child should have a school place come September’.

Ruairí Ó Murchú, TD.

Amy Broadhurst.

Miscarriage support group to be set up in County Louth

By Tamara O’Connell

A NEW venue is set to be launched for support group meetings for people living in the North East affected by miscarriage.

Local volunteers with the Miscarriage Association of Ireland, Eibhlin Lindon from Hackballscross and Samantha Martin from Louth Village are in the process of setting up meetings in Drogheda.

Eibhlin, a social care worker, told the Dundalk Leader, the new venue for the meetings in Drogheda will be the Lourdes Community & Recreation Centre in Yellowbatter.

“We haven’t got a date yet for the new meeting at the Drogheda venue. We are planning to announce the date on the Miscarriage Association of Ireland’s social media, so please keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages,” said Eibhlin.

“If you want to find out more information about the meetings and upcoming dates, you can also email info@miscarriage.ie.

“It’s for women in the North East who have been affected by miscarriage but it’s also for their partners or a friend or relative can come along too to support you.”

Eibhlin added: “It’s very informal. It’s just a chat but you can just sit there too; you don’t have to talk.

“You can listen to other people’s stories. Sometimes you can feel on your own after a miscar-

riage, so this is a great way to get some support.

“Instead of being in your own head a lot, it can help to speak to people who have been through it.”

She continued: “Some women at the meetings don’t have kids and are still trying to carry their babies and some women have families but have never dealt with the loss.

“It’s for anyone with experience of miscarriage. We are looking at alternating meetings between Dundalk and Drogheda going forward.

“Our next meeting is due to be held on March 27 at the Community Room in Louth Local Development.”

The Community Room in Louth Local Development is on Park Street, Dundalk, A91 V2KF. The meeting is due to take place from 7pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, March 27.

Refreshments will be served at the meeting. Attendees can enter through the Partnership Court carpark on the Ramparts Road.

The Louth support group is also looking for volunteers. The only criteria to become a volunteer is that the person has been through miscarriage.

Over €300,000 for built heritage projects in Louth

LOUTH County Council have welcomed funding awards for the conservation and restoration of 21 built heritage projects across the county.

Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, announced that a total of 676 heritage projects across every county will benefit from €9 million in financial support through the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) for 2024.

Both schemes support the conservation of historic buildings for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations and are managed jointly by the National Built Heritage Service (NBHS) in the Department of Housing, Local Government and

Heritage, and a network of conservation staff in the 31 local authorities.

Louth County Council have facilitated the grant process in Louth, receiving 30 applications under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, 17 of which were successful, and 12 applications to the Historical Structures Fund, four of which have been awarded funding.

A total of €235,000 will be awarded to successful applicants under the HSF streams.

The largest grant has been allocated to the iconic Derryhale Hotel in Dundalk. €75,000.00 has been awarded for 2024, with a further €75,000 available in 2025. Works at the building will include repair of the original timber sash and stained windows and entrance door of the hotel which is of cultural signifi-

cance within the Victorian heart of Dundalk town centre.

The Widows Houses, Castlebellingham, County Louth has been granted €50,000.00 for repairs to a retaining wall partially collapsed, and joinery and glazing repairs to the entrance passageway. Works will include restoration of internal joinery, floors, window openers, fireplaces and internal lime plastering.

The Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol has been earmarked for €25,000.00 towards remedial works to address severe dampness in the south gable wall including repairing copings, brick repairs and replacing cement pointing with lime.

A further €140,400 has been allocated under the BHIS for 17 successful applicants in Louth, which includes works

at St. Peter’s Church, St. Peter’s Close, Drogheda, funding for a number of individual thatched roof projects, and other built heritage works across the county.

Welcoming the announcement, Joan Martin Chief Executive, Louth County Council said: ‘This is great news for a wide variety of projects across the county, where works are planned at buildings and structures that are of cultural and historical significance in Louth.’

A full breakdown of the awards being granted in Louth and throughout the country under the 2024 HSF and BHIS schemes is available at the following link: https://www.gov. ie/en/publication/ df2c6-breakdown-of2024-bhis-and-hsfgrants/

Eibhlin Lindon.

Samantha Martin.

Hillsborough: The Truth - Phil Scraton in conversation at Roe River Books

TO celebrate Roe River Books’ move to their fantastic new premises on Clanbrassil Street, Culture Club is teaming up with the independent bookshop to organise a very exciting series of author visits over the coming months.

The first of these events is one to relish as the legendary critical criminologist, academic and author Phil Scraton comes to Dundalk on Friday, April 19th 2024. On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster, Phil will read from his landmark book

“Hillsborough: The Truth” and talk about his work as criminologist, activist and Liverpool supporter with Dundalk author, Marcel Krueger.

15 April 1989: 96 Liverpool

fans – men, women and children were killed at Sheffield’s Hillsborough Stadium. Hundreds were injured, many more traumatized. Twenty-seven years later, an inquest jury concluded they were killed unlawfully – the police were held primarily responsible, the fans exonerated.

Hillsborough: The Truth details three decades of struggle by bereaved families and survivors which led to the Hillsborough Independent Panel, the quashing of the original inquest verdicts and new investigations into the police.

Phil’s book is widely celebrated as the definitive account of what happened on that day and the long struggle for justice.

Roe River Books, Culture

Club and Marcel Krueger are honoured to welcome Phil Scraton to Dundalk for what promises to be a very special evening.

Phil Scraton is Professor Emeritus in Law, Queen’s University, Belfast. Widely published, his books include Law, Order and the Authoritarian State; Childhood in ‘Crisis’?; Power, Conflict and Criminalisation; The Violence of Incarceration. In Hillsborough’s immediate aftermath on behalf of Liverpool City Council he led the Hillsborough Project, publishing two major reports: Hillsborough and After (1990); No Last Rights (1995). He published Hillsborough: The Truth (1999), now in its fourth, updated edition. He was primary

author of the Hillsborough Independent Panel’s groundbreaking report Hillsborough (2012); he was research consultant and contributor to the BAFTA award-winning film Hillsborough (2016) and coauthor of ‘Treated With Contempt’ (2022), the independent report into police brutality at the 2022 Paris Champions League Final. Having refused an OBE, in 2017 he was castaway on BBC’s Desert Island Discs. In 2016, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool.

Praise for Hillsborough: The Truth

“This book is dynamite. A brilliant achievement...I couldn’t put it down. Passionate and committed, yet meticu-

lously researched and fiercely intelligent.” Jimmy McGovern.

“Of this I’m sure – the full truth about Hillsborough would never have been known were it not for Phil Scraton’s meticulous efforts over many years –he has done a huge service not just to the Hillsborough families but to this country.” Andy Burnham, former UK Shadow Health secretary, current Mayor of Greater Manchester.

Friday, April 19th, 7 pm, Roe River Books, 60 Clanbrassil St, Dundalk.Admission is free but booking is essential to guarantee your place, demand will be high. Booking link: https:// www.eventbrite.ie/e/an-evening-with-phil-scraton-at-roeriver-books-tickets-863705344 937?aff=oddtdtcreator. Phil Scraton.

Seun to stand in local elections

By Tamara O’Connell

A MOTHER living on the Carrick Road in Dundalk has decided to put herself forward as an independent candidate in the local election for Dundalk South.

Originally from Nigeria, Seun Grace Atiroko is 37-years-old and has been living in Dundalk for over nine years.

In addition to taking care of her children, Seun Grace has also completed several part-time third level courses.

“I’m also very interested in community work and have done a lot of volunteering in the community and in my church,” said Seun Grace.

“I am a Christian and have a strong faith. My goal is to promote more socially diverse inclusive projects.

“I’m also the founder of the Future Stars Parent Group which helps parents and children who have additional needs.”

Seun Grace added: “The essence of the group is to promote more awareness for children with additional needs.

“The issues facing people in Co Louth are housing, transportation, unemployment, childcare and more.

“There is also a lack of representation in spaces for women and migrants. Everyone should have the same

opportunities. It’s good to have diverse voices.”

She continued: “I believe together we can build a thriving community. A lot can be achieved if we work together.

“I’m a very strong believer in Christ. I’m solution and community driven. I don’t see obstacles; I see possibilities.

“My slogan for the

2024 local election campaign is ‘United We Stand, Together We Can’. It celebrates love, unity and peace.” Seun will launch her campaign to to run as a Councillor in the June 2024 Local Election as an Independent candidate in Dundalk South from 6 pm to 8 pm tomorrow evening at the Redeemer Family Resource Centre, Árd Easmuinn,

Seun will host her campaign launch tomorrow evening in Ard Easmuinn.

New pilot project launched by Irish Wheelchair Association Louth to support social housing planning for people with disabilities

IRISH Wheelchair Association has rolled out a new local pilot project across Co Louth to support social housing planning for people with disabilities.

The project will assist people in the county

who are living with a disability and who require social housing but don’t know where to begin, or they are struggling with the application process.

The initiative is being led by Irish Wheelchair

staff in Louth who are responding to the needs of people with disabilities across the county.

Irish Wheelchair Association Service Manager for Louth, Sara McKeown who is based in Drogheda, said: “For

this new plan we will identify people in our services who have a housing need and support them with their social housing application form, which can be very daunting for some.

There are often multiple sections to complete alongside supporting documentation. So, the whole thing can be quite challenging for someone with a disability

who is already busy with their day-to-day, often living in a home that is unsuitable and dangerous for a wheelchair.”

“We will also support people who are on the social housing list and help them establish their status on the list”, she said.

“When you are on the

local authority housing list it is important to continue to engage with the housing department, not just sit and wait for the years to pass. So we can support people with that element too, because it can be draining and confusing.” Among those at the launch last week was Brona O’Reilly from Louth Co Council who are supportive of the

initiative and available to help where possible.

IWA Area Manager Declan Hamilton said: “Social housing is the only viable housing option for many people with disabilities and the process is relatively straightforward once you know what to do. So we want to support people as best we can to get the home they are entitled to.”

Jean Coleman, IWA National Housing Programme Manager, said “Through this initiative in Louth we also hope to reach out to the HSE and other local disability organisations in the county and promote social housing applications through our Think Ahead, Think Housing campaign. People can learn more here www. iwa.ie/thinkhousing.

Sheridan welcomes funding for Carrick road plans

LOCAL Councillor John Sheridan has welcomed new funding as part of plans for significant safety upgrades to the Dundalk-Carrickmacross road

The 2024 Road Works Programme of Louth County Council includes €150,000 towards plans for upgrades of the R178 between Mullabohy (Stone Trough junction) and Castlering bridge.

“I understand that subject to Department of Transport approval, tenders are to be issued in March for a consultant to progress feasibility and options design. This is an important step in the process particularly for local residents and farmers to see the reality of proposals”

“I have visited many local homes recently along the R178 and there is a daily frustration and fear as well as a long term desire to have the road upgraded. While it may be a long time yet before we

see work on the junctions, every step is another step closer on the project.”

“Everyone who knows the Dundalk to Carrickmacross road will know its endless series of bends with alot of daily commuters as well as lorries and buses. Following a 2022 safety audit, four junctions in Louth have been identified for long term upgrade Essexford, Ballykelly, Castlering Bridge and Mullabohy. At this point, a 3km stretch from Stone Trough to Castlering Bridge is the first section to be considered for feasibility and options design.”

“Long term these works will help make the road safer for local travellers. I also hope that the improvements can include active travel measures like footpaths and cycle tracks. I will do all I can to advance the full upgrade of the road.”

MARTIN HELPS IRISH CANCER SOCIETY ON DAFODIL DAY

The Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day took place last Friday (22nd March) and thanks to volunteers like Martin Hegarty (pictured left) as well as the generosity of the people of Dundalk, the charity raised some much needed funds to support their vital free services. The Irish Cancer Society’s stated they hoped to raise €6m nationwide from their annual fundraiser.

Cllr John Sheridan.

Redemptoris Mater Seminary host well attended Open Day

By Tamara O’Connell

OVER 100 local people attended an open day for the new Redemptoris Mater Seminary near the Castletown Road, Dundalk on Saturday, March 23.

The event took place from 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm in the existing building where the priests and seminarians are currently living.

“We shared stories of the seminarians’ lives when the seminarians conducted a tour. People on the tour were brought to each room

in the building,” said Fr Giuseppe Pollio.

“The seminarians gave a bit of back-

ground of their own lives, and spoke about God and how they recognised the signs of

their vocation in their own life.

“What struck the people the most was

the experiences of the seminarians; and the visitors also shared some of their personal

experiences.”

Fr Guiseppe added: “We were having groups of between four to seven people and ten to 15 people.

“It depended on the time of when they were approaching the tour. We also showed the visitors the ground floor of the new building and showed what the building will become.

“At the moment the exterior is complete. The interior is a shell and we need to fit everything including mechanical and electrical.”

He continued: “We published a video on

YouTube showing the seminary so people can take a look if they are interested.

“At the end of the tour, we offered some refreshments. It was nice to be able to do this with the people of Dundalk.

“We gathered around the table and it was very positive. Some of them came here and asked us to pray for them.”

Fr Guiseppe concluded: “They wrote their intentions in a booklet.

On the ground floor of the new building there will be a new oratory, new dining room and

Statement from Colm Markey MEP

COLM Markey MEP has withdrawn his name for selection for the upcoming European elections. He will however stay in politics with his focus returning to issues in Louth.

“I have informed Fine Gael that I will be withdrawing my name from the MEP selection convention for Midlands North-west constituency. I would like to thank all the members for all their generous and valued support.

“I will continue to remain in politics and plan to contest in future elections. My focus will return to my home county of Louth and in particular Drogheda which has faced particular challenges in recent months and years, I want to play a central role in tackling these issues and working closely with Fergus O’Dowd TD to carry on work he has completed over the last 22 years.”

EASTER HAMPER WINNER

Winner was Pamela Cairns, 49 Avondale Park, Dundalk. The Easter hamper raised €3,400 for veterans in need. The Michael McNeela Branch would like to thank everyone that supported our fundraiser and we look forward to your continued support. Jim McEneaney, Chairman.

entrance hall, a place called a ‘Sanctuary of the Word of God’ and services.

“The first floor will have bedrooms and a Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and we plan to convert the attic into a meeting room.

“There are 17 seminarians here currently and when it’s finished the building will have a capacity for 28 people. There are already five priests, and two deacons will be ordained on April 20. The seven priests will work for the Archdiocese of Armagh.”

A large crowd turned up last weekend to see the newly refurbished Redemptoris Mater Seminary building just off the Castletown Road. There are currently 17 seminarians in the building.

McGahon excited by Harris leadership

SENATOR John McGahon was one of Minister Harris’s early endorsers last Thursday as Fine Gael TD’s and Senators announced their support for a new leader of Fine Gael.

Speaking to local media on Thursday morning, Senator McGahon said “I first met Simon in 2008 at a Young Fine Gael Summer School event in Carlingford, we have been friends for over 15 years and have served alongside each other in the Oireachtas for the last four years.

“I look at Simons record as a TD and a Minister and it’s clear that he was able to consistently deliver. Both as a Junior Minister in the Department of Finance, leading our country through the initial dark days of Covid as Health Minister and more recently, putting a huge push on the importance apprenticeships as Minister for Higher Education.

“As Minister for

Higher Education, Simon has been extremely supportive of DKIT and its mission for university status, he is also a big supporter of the regional skills training centre on the Coes Road and visited it recently to see the important work they are doing to increase and promote apprenticeships.

“I believe that this chance of leadership will bring a moment of renewal and an oppor-

Poetry Corner Down In Gethsemane

By NOEL SHARKEY

The pages of time had not yet unrolled, I was then young and your story old And I heard how you prayed in the Evening breeze, And supplicated beneath the olive trees, And I never wondered how you felt Or thought long about the time you knelt Down in Gethsemane.

Time has since scampered by... now Older and wise, I view the world with weary eyes.

So many chasms faced and crossed, So many friends gone and lost Who doubtless knelt on the self-same Grass

And also prayed that their cup might Pass

And now I often wonder how will I feel

When it comes down to my own turn

To kneel

Down in Gethsemane?

tunity to reconnect with people right across the country. I think Simon will focus on what we can get done between now and the end of term, which is March 2025 and how Government can deliver for people.

“Simon has a huge amount of ability, energy and determination and I know he will take that with him into the role of Taoiseach. He has achieved so much in

each of his Government roles and I know he will be able to do the same as Taoiseach.

“This is an exciting time for Ireland, our youngest Taoiseach to date, with all the energy and enthusiasm of youth, coupled with the experience and ability that serving in three Government Departments has yielded concluded Senator McGahon.

1—What county is incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris from?

2—What was the Holy Grail in the bible?

3—Name the only bird that can swim but can’t fly?

4—What is the roman numeral for 41?

5—Can you name the Blackrock athlete who competed for the United States at the 1964 Sumer Olympics in Tokyo?

6— Can you name the fictional family who lived at Southfork Ranch, Braddock County, Texas?

7—In mathematics, what is an angle called which measures more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees?

8—Can you tell me the first names of the two Healy Raes who are currently TD’s for the Kerry Constituency?

9—Which F is a MiddleEastern dish of spiced, mashed chickpeas formed into balls and deep fried?

10—What does a sommelier do?

The Stinker: Which country of the Commonwealth is nearest to the UK?

—THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS—

in all aspects of wine. Stinker: Malta.

3—Penguin, 4—XLI, 5—Peter McArdle. 6—Ewing Family from Dallas, 7—Obtuse angle, 8—Michael and Danny, 9—Falafel, 10 A sommelier is an expert

1—Wicklow, 2—The Holy Grail, also known as the Holy Chalice, is in Christian tradition the vessel that Jesus used at the Last Supper to share wine.

RECRUITING FOR EVENING SHIFT

Temporary posiTion, Fixed Term ConTraCT.

Gernord Ltd, Carrickmacross., established since 1968, are part of a French based multinational operation, and are one of the largest PVC flooring & wall Covering manufacturers in Europe.

We invite applications for the following positions

PRODUCTION OPERATORS: Required for effective and efficient running of the continuous manufacturing process, ensuring Quality plus Health & Safety levels are maintained to a high standard. Manufacturing experience ideally required. It is important that candidates can embrace ongoing change and engage in continuous improvement programmes, be flexible, versatile, have good communication and team building skills, plus good attendance is expected. Honesty, accountability, and a good working attitude is essential. Forklift licence is important, not essential, training is available.

NOTE: Fixed Evening shift, 40 hr /week, 4pm-12 mid-night €15.60/hr plus a 20% shift allowance. Vacancies immediate, as 4-6 weeks, training is required, if a new employee or even a previous employee.

Also require 1-2 operators to work Fixed Night shift, 40 hr /week, 12 midnight - 8am, €15.60/hr plus a 35% shift allowance.

Please forward full CV details or complete application form, available at reception, and send to: FRANCIS DUFFY, General Manager, Gernord Ltd., Ballybay Rd, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, A81YD83. 0876893662. francis.duffy@gerflor.com.

Senator John McGahon with Fine Gael’s new leader, Simon Harris.

Andrew reflects on changes on 20th anniversary of the smoking ban in pubs

DUNDALK publican

Andrew McGeough has praised the introduction of the workplace smoking ban on March 29, 2004, on its 20th anniversary.

The owner of McGeough’s Bar & Restaurant on Roden Place, Townparks opened his popular business on July 12, 2000, four years before the introduction of the ban.

“On our opening night, the fans weren’t working properly so because of the smoke everyone had red eyes. We had to open the doors to let out the smoke,” Andrew recalled.

“Some smokers would put out cigarettes on carpets or timber floors. They didn’t always just use the ashtrays and some of the cigarettes would still be burning.

“There would be burnt seats and the walls and ceilings would be yellow from the nicotine sticking to them.”

Andrew added: “The smoking ban has been a big plus for the industry in terms of the health benefits and for re-decorating costs.

“I used to be a smoker but I haven’t smoked for years now. A lot of people did; it was normal at the time.

“As far as the industry goes, the smoking ban has been brilliant. There are staff members who never smoked but worked in the industry for years and were inhaling second-hand smoke all that time.”

He continued: “Publicans don’t always like telling people what to do. The hardest pill to swallow for publicans in terms of the smoking ban was what constituted a smoking area according to the HSE.”

Top left and bottom left: pictures of McGeough’s staff and customers pre-smoking ban. Right: the bar as it is today.

FAMILY NOTICES

MONAHAN Paddy 43rd ANNIVERSARY

In memory of Paddy Monahan, late of Cedarwood Park, whose anniversary occurred on 23rd March.

You rest in the arms of Jesus

In a place of peace and love

Watching over us always

From Heaven up above.

Today we’ll light a candle

And say a special prayer

For someone very special

Now resting in God’s care.

—Always remembered by his wife Ann, daughter Joyce and sons Paddy, Tony and Barry and their families.

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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). R.K.

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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). J.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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). D.L.

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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). S.J.

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 three days. Promise publication and favours will be granted. (Never known to fail). L.K.

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.

ROOM TO RENT in Dundalk near train station, comes with WiFi/ TV/ your own bathroom laundry facilities on site. Secured location key pad entry to property no utility bills. We have a house policy and security process standard that a candidate must agree to. We accept ARP payments. Text only first to 0872227599.

HOLIDAY HOME TO RENT in Dingle, Co. Kerry. We have a 3-bedroom apartment right in the center of Dingle that can cater for 6 persons. Email us for more details at info@innisfreehouse.ie.

APARTMENT TO RENT in Dundalk, good location Tel 087 2788573.

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

CHIMNEY CLEANER—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact Cathal 087-225-9799. WE CAN DISTRIBUTE your leaflets from €75 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

ARTICLES FOR SALE SPECIAL SERVICES SPECIAL SERVICES CLASSES & COURSES

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

Former Louth Rose Jenny to appear on TV for Glór Tire

OF the eight contestants appearing on season 20 of Glór Tíre, none will have the big occasion TV experience of Louth’s Jenny Hanlon.

The Country singer-songwriter from Cooley will appear on the long-running TG4 show on Tuesday 2nd April at 9.30pm, seeking to win the title of Ireland’s Glór Tíre Country Music Champion 2024.

While it will be Jenny’s first time on the show, it will not be her first time on television. Before turning to Country music, she was the Louth entrant for the 2015 Rose of Tralee.

“I applied never in a million years expecting I’d get it,” she says, “I got on to the finals - don’t know how I kept telling everybody I slipped through the cracks - but it was such a good experience. I was only 18. We were sitting in rooms with businesspeople and whoever, having to make conversation with them over dinners and stuff. You’ve no choice but to interact. It definitely took me out of my shell.”

While it was important for her personal development, Jenny admits that even today, she still “will be shaking” going on stage. “I don’t

like all eyes on me, which sounds silly when I want to sing,” she says. However, Jenny embodies the attitude that the best way to confront a problem is to face it head-onwhether that be nervousness, anxiety, or the fact she has fibromyalgia, a chronic condition causing fatigue, pain and tenderness in the body, and difficulty sleeping - and to refuse to bow to it.

“I’m a walking contradiction,” she says. “I’m so full of anxiety, but I still do it. I just think life’s too short. Because I have fibromyalgia, I said ‘No’ to things in the past out of fear. Fibromyalgia is so common

and yet so misunderstood. I was diagnosed at 12, but to be honest, I wouldn’t be the person I am without it. I’ve learned to be grateful for it, which, trust me, is not easy. I think that is why I have that mentality.”

These life experiences made Jenny jump at the chance to do Glór Tíre - the programme widely acknowledged as the biggest platform for emerging Irish Country talent.

“Glór Tíre is an amazing way to get yourself out there,” she says. “I wanted to push myself, to not say ‘No’ to a big opportunity. The thought of singing live in front of an audience and cameras is scary, but I wanted to take the opportunity with both hands. I’m grateful for it. I appreciate it. Let’s see what comes from it.”

Jenny cites Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, and The Chicks as her inspirations. Johnny Brady, one of the most exciting talents in Irish Country will be her mentor for Glór Tire. For more info on Glór Tíre, see www.tg4.ie and follow @ glortire on social media.

CARPET & OVEN CLEANING—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.ie.

MAN IN A VAN—House moves, furniture delivery/removal, yard/garage clearances, recycling & rubbish removal. Call Will on 085 860 4048 for a competitive quote.

GARDEN & HOUSE MAINTENANCE— Strimming grass, hedge cutting, weeding, also garden clearance, concreting, patios, painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, fencing. Have all the equipment. Contact Brian 086-109-7358.

FIFI’S ALTERATIONS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.305.30pm & 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. Please note, we do not repair Clocks.

BUILDER & HOME MAINTAINENCE—

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

POWER WASHING/Garden Services - all garden tidy ups, lawns, hedges, pathways, Gutters, shed/garage/garden rubble removal. Call Will’s Services 0858604048.

GW PAINTING AND DECORATING—No job too small, keen rates, Dundalk & surrounding areas, estimates free. Phone 086 3848079.

CARPENTRY/BUILDING SERVICES—

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.

ANAM CARA HEALING—Holistic company providing Psychic Tarot Reading, Reiki, Crystal Therapy and Aromatherapy. Phone for appointments 0864591226 or visit www.anamcarahealing.ie”.

ROOF LEAKS MASTER—We repair all types of roof/tile, slate, bangor blues. Repair torch on roofs, scrape & clean, chimneys & chimney pots, chimney bird guards, gutter facia & soffits. All work guaranteed, 25 years experience. Tel. 086 8184827.

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

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.

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

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Whatsapp or Tel 085-7623758 for quotation.

LOCAL PAINTERS & DECORATORS AVAIL-

ABLE—All types of painting & decorating done to the highest of standards, no job to big or to small, we also do shops/offices and can work out of hours to avoid any disruption or inconvenience to the day to day running of your business,call 0851588667, or get us on Facebook @ Budget painters Decorators.

LAWNS CUT hedges cut and gutters cleaned Tel Tom 087 2296441.

FULLY QUALIFIED CARPENTER available for all aspects of carpentry. TV units, paneling, doors or floors call James on. 0871833091.

MEADOW VIEW LANDSCAPING— Trees, Hedging & Grass Cut. Power Washing and General Garden Maintenance. Serving the people in Dundalk for 26 years. Contact Ken 087 9548114.

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

Over 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Available services—Doors, Frames, Floors, Skirting, Architraves, Walls, Built in Units, Fencing/Gates, Plaster boarding and Roofing Services. Complete renovations carried out. Contact Mark 086 0895508.

MAN WITH A VAN—Hedges, tree topping, painting, facia & Soffit, patios, concreting, garage clear-outs, outside taps. Call Kevin for a free & honest quote 0894016728.

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

PLASTERER AVAILABLE—Professional tradesman available for first class plastering repairs etc both inside and outside. Keen prices, free quotes. Small Jobs only. Contact 087 3525652.

PAINTING SERVICES available, interior and exterior. Also available for Power washing, Garage, House and Garden clearance. Furniture removals. Tel Brian 087 7558506.

LOCAL POWER WASHING—No job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting, gutter cleaning and furniture removals, recycling or rubbish removals. Contact James 087 4464960 for free quotation.

CHARA COUNSELLING—20 years’ experience, currently taking appointments. Supporting you with emotional intelligence for relationship issues, your mental health, grief, all addictions & past traumas. For a strictly private consultation call Martin today on 083 3402766.

DRUM LESSONS INCLUDING

BODHRAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

WEEKLY SEWING CLASSES on-going at Northlink Retail Park, you can join in any time, for enquiries please call or WhatsApp Elizabeth on 0872649221 or visit www.djkcreations.com.

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

HELP WANTED on sea boat, couple of days per week depending on sea weather. No time wasters please. Must have some sort of experience being on a boat. Please email 53somethingnew@gmail.com.

LOUTH COUNTY COUNCIL—We, Mr.& Mrs

Whately intend to apply for planning permission for development at No.1 The Cresent, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 E971. The development will consist of a minor extension and associated site works to the rear of the property. This building is a Protected Structure ref. D493 and situated within the The Cresent ACA. 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.

Easter Spring Into Storytime

Looking for something FREE to do over the school holidays?

Join us on Friday 5th April at 3:30pm in Dundalk Library as we celebrate Easter with a very special Spring into Storytime session. Grab those bunny ears and Easter bonnets and come along for a fun afternoon. Suitable for children under 8 years of age, there is no booking required but all children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event.

Medjugorje

Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje from August 27th to September 3rd, 2024 – 8 days. Cost circa €300 euros which includes bed/breakfast plus full itineray. There are also optional excursions. For further details: please phone laurena at 0851833110.

Ardee

Concert Band

On Saturday 30th

March Ardee Concert Band will showcase in a Joint Concert alongside the Spring Valley Academy High School Band and Choir as part of their Irish Tour. They will visit Ardee Concert Band at their home; The Bohemian Centre with the show starting from 8pm sharp, Admission at the door on the night, €5. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The 100 strong band and choir from Dayton, Ohio, USA are performing along side their Senior Band and the Ardee Intermezzo Ensemble also on the night. It is set to be a spectacular performance and it is a night not to be missed.

RehabCare members enjoy day in Leinster House

IT was a day of political history for a group of people from RehabCare Quayside Resource Centre in Dundalk.

Members of our Dundalk service who take part in Social Farming went on a trip to Leinster House. There, they took part in a fascinating tour of the building and enjoyed lunch in the Dáil Bar and Restaurant where they met incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris.

Jimmy, Gerry, and Peter Paul, along with social farmer Matthew, were kindly invited to Leinster House by Senator Erin McGreehan of Louth, a spokesperson on Children, Disability, Equality and Integration.

The group had a great day - they enjoyed learning about the varied history, taking in the many paintings around Leinster House, and chatting to the politicians.

Car Gift Packs & Gift Vouchers Available

The Ramparts, Dundalk (formerly Martin's Garage)

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EASTER SPECIAL OFFERS

Other

We

Heineken 8L Blade Keg €43.53

Birra Moretti 8L Blade Keg €42.49

Tiger 8L Blade Keg €42.49 BLADE MACHINES AVAILABLE

Coors 24x500ml €27.49

Carlsberg 24x500ml €22.49

Carling 24x500ml €30.00

Heineken

24x440ml (5% ABV) €30.49

Molson Canadian 24x500ml €34.00

West

Magners 18x440ml €17.64

Coors 18x330ml €18.22

Bud Light

Heineken 2L Sub Keg €13.82

Birra Moretti 2L Sub Keg €15.49 Tiger 2L Sub Keg €15.00

UK

UK

UK

Large Cider Bottles

Frosty Jack 2.5L €5.87

Blackthorn 2L €4.58

Strongbow 2L €4.11

Budweiser

Pint Cans

24x568ml €40.00

(ONLY €1.67 A PINT)

Carlsberg Pint Cans 24x568ml €32.88

(ONLY €1.37 A PINT)

Heineken Pint Cans 24x568ml €39.00

(ONLY €1.63 A PINT)

Jameson Litre €32.93 / 70cl €22.35

Powers Litre €30.58 / 70cl €22.94

Grey Goose Vodka 70cl €45.28

Au Vodka 70cl €35.28 each

Smirnoff Litre €24.69 / 70cl €17.64

Gordons

Harp 12x440ml €12.93

WKD 70 cl €3.52 each Buzz Ballz €4.12 each

Captain Morgan Litre €23.50

Absolut

Bacardi

Absolut Vanilla

Southern

Jagermeister

Baileys