29-03-2023

Inspirational Mark heads west for charity

By Paul Byrne

DunDalk resident

Mark nugent has already completed the 380-mile Mizen to Malin Head and last night he began his latest adventure with a cycle from Howth to Salthill.

That would be a tough journey for even the most hardened cyclist but it is even more challenging for Mark given the fact he is paralysed from the waist down after he suffered a spinal cord injury when he was knocked off his bike by a truck on his way to training in 2016.

Mark uses a hand-bike and he cycles using his arms to propel the bike.

The 46-year old is origi-

nally from Maynooth in kildare but has been living on the avenue Road in Dundalk for the past twelve years. Mark can often be seen out on his handbike around town particularly along the Inner Relief Road and he says the support he has received to date from people around town has been fantastic.

“I’ve already done the Mizen to Malin Head challenge so now I’m going across the country from Howth to Salthill to try and raise money for a charity called ‘as Darragh Did’ who have been named as the chosen charity of the annual Galway Cycle.

Continued on Page 2

Mark Nugent on his handbike and his coach and friend Paul Callan.

Inspirational Mark heads west for charity

From Page 1 as Darragh Did is a charity setup by andrew McGinley in memory of his children conor, Darragh and carla who died in tragic circumstances in their family home in Dublin in January of 2020. andrew subsequently set up the charity which supports local community clubs, societies and projects with Dundalk club Bay Fc recently benefitting from the charity via sponsorship of all their U10 teams.

according to Mark, the hard training has been done and he is ready to embark on what will be a gruelling trip of around 265kms.

“The plan is to set off on Tuesday afternoon from Howth with a team of six people including friends of mine from the Louth W.a.T.c.H (Walking and Tandem cycling for Health) club which is an activity club for Blind and Partially Sighted People. Paul callan from Fatima has been helping me train in the lead up to this and he will be accompanying us on the first couple of legs of the trip also.

“We will start in Howth at 12pm and travel along the canal to ashtown. From there we will head over to my parent’s house in Maynooth around 3pm. Then we will be travelling via Blanchardstown, clonsilla,

confey, and the back of Intel. after a bit of a break we will head into Maynooth and over towards Kilcock and onto Enfield for 6pm. And that will be the first day done!

“Wednesday and Thursday will be tough as we will be clocking up 100kms on each day but Friday will consist of a short spin from just outside Galway out to Salthill. We’ve already had a fundraising event at the Marshes where we set up a stationary cycle and I was blown away by the amount of people who supported me. There were kids coming over and handing me fivers and tenners and we ended up raining over €2000. We

also have an idonate page which has also raised just over €2000 so it’s been going really well,” stated Mark.

“I’ve always really enjoyed taking party in sports and being active and despite the accident a few years ago I made a conscious decision not to let my disabilities stop me doing what I love. I love a challenge and although I know it will be tough I’m looking forward to the trek,” he added.

Donations can be made to the as Daragh Did charity through Mark’s iDonate page which can be found by searching for Mark and Mary’s cycle fundraising page with all money raised going to the charity.

John praises council for road safety work

LocaL disability and equal rights campaigner, John Morgan, has praised Louth county council for making great strides in recent years to improve road safety for disabled people around town.

Speaking to the Dundalk Leader, the Point Road man said that many improvements had been made locally in recent years. John singled out Director of Services, catherine Duff and Louth county council Senior Engineer, Mark Johnston in particular for their work in recent years to make Dundalk safer for the disabled.

“I like to give credit where it is due and I have to say that Louth county council are making great strides to ensure that this town is safe for people with disabilities. The tactile paving which is designed to help the blind or those with partial sight is being installed all over town and they come in two different colours to allow those with partial sight know if they or the motorist have the right of way when crossing the road. obviously, when all the work was done to upgrade clanbrassil St. this paving was put in but it’s also being done on other streets all over the town which is great to see.

“I actually went on a walk around town with both Mark and catherine a while back and they both took on board my suggestions and issues and they have been

very engaging and willing to work with the likes of myself and other campaigners to make the town safer. Myself, Paul callan, cllr. Maeve Yore and another wheelchair user Mark Nugent were on that walkabout and it’s good that we have people from the council willing to engage and see first-hand the issues disabled people face around town on a day to day basis.

as the saying goes there is a lot done and a lot more to do but things are definitely improving.

Back in 2013 cavan won a ‘European Destination of Excellence’ (EDEN) award for accessible tourism and I remember going up there to talk to people who were involved in getting it to those standards. I was told it took several years to complete that

project so I do understand that these things take time. Dundalk isn’t where cavan is just yet but things are definitely improving and fair play to Louth county council for trying to improve things,” stated John.

“I would also like to thank the St. Patrick’s Day parade committee and Louth county council for the viewing platform for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. It was very well received and I believe there will be an additional one in use for next year,” he added.

Louth county council Director of Services catherine Duff gave an outline of the work already done by the local authority as well as their plans going forward.

“Louth county council, Placemaking and Physical Development

directorate has been working with representatives of Louth Disability, John Morgan and elected representatives to address access issues countywide . This has been funded from the council resources and from NTa funding. There has been a focus on providing level access crossings to enable wheel chair user, tactile pavement at crossings to inform the visually impaired, additional disabled parking and improved traffic signals systems. The council traffic wardens have also been active enforcing illegal parking in disabled parking bays. The council’s plans for improving the public realm as part of Westgate vision in Drogheda, St Nicholas Quarter in

Dundalk, ardee 2040, Living in and Visting carlingford project and omeath village center

regeneration will all enhance accessibility for the disabled,” explained catherine.

Minimum 14 hours a week, retail experience and customer service desirable Not suitable for students

Apply, in strictest confidence, to Box No. 217 c/o Dundalk Leader, 63 clanbrassil St., Dundalk

John Morgan with his assistance dog Jamie.

Mark Nugent and Paul Callan.

ACCountA nt

A firm of Chartered Accountants is seeking to recruit a Qualified Accountant to join our team at Anne St, Dundalk.

This is an excellent opportunity to join an expanding practice where you will gain exposure and manage a diverse client portfolio.

As an Accountant, your role will be as follows:

•

Manage a portfolio of clients.

•

Demonstrate an understanding of accounting concepts and apply them to client situations.

•

Organise the planning, execution and completion of accounting and other assignments.

•

Preparation of tax computations and returns.

•

Manage workflow & stafftraining.

•

Plan and organise weekly team meetings.

•

Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines for accounting procedures.

•

Assist with ad hoc assignments.

Candidates must have:

•

Three/four years practice experience.

•

A high level of self-motivation.

•

Good attention to detail.

•

Strong interpersonal skills, both verbal and written.

•

Excellent analytical and problem-solving ability.

•

Good technical knowledge.

You will receive a competitive remuneration depending on experience. Persons interested should submit their CV to info@briodys.ie or to our address at: 60 Anne St, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 KN28. Applications will be dealt with in strictest confidence

Fitzpatrick quizzes An Tánaiste on passport backlogs

WITH summer fast approaching many people are beginning to turn their thoughts to summer holidays but anybody thinking of travelling have been warned to make sure their passports are in date and to apply quickly if they are in need of renewal. S

Last year saw high demand for new passports, with a record 1,080,000 issued during 2022.

Speaking in the Dáil this week Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign affairs, Micheal Martin about the number of online passport applications that are currently waiting to be processed; the general processing times for online applications; and asked if he would make a statement on the matter.

He also asked why there is such a disparity in online passport application processing timeframes compared to postal application processing timeframes, given that the online application process is not accessible to all. He also questioned the number of postal passport applications that are currently waiting to be processed; the estimated timeframe for this backlog to be cleared; and the general processing times for postal applications.

t r AI nee ACCountA nt

A firm of Chartered Accountants is seeking to recruit a Trainee Accountant. This is an excellent opportunity to join an expanding practice where you will gain exposure to a diverse client portfolio.

As a Trainee Accountant, your role will be as follows:

•

Preparation of Sole Trader and Audit Exempt Limited Company Accounts

•

Preparation of tax computations and returns

•

Preparation of VAT 3 & PAYE Returns

• and skills

Rotate between various assignments within the team therefore gaining a broad knowledge

•

Direct client interaction

Candidates must have:

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A relevant third level degree (Accountancy and Business preferred).

•

Be willing to work toward an accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA).

•

A high level of self-motivation.

•

Good attention to detail.

•

Strong interpersonal skills, both verbal and written

•

Excellent analytical and problem-solving ability

•

Good technical knowledge.

You will receive a competitive remuneration and a comprehensive study package which will include tutorial and exam fees together with study and exam leave. Persons interested should submit their CV to info@briodys.ie or to our address at:

60 Anne St, Dundalk, Co. Louth A91 KN28. Applications will be dealt with in strictest confidence

In response the Tánaiste claimed the Passport Service were on top of the current demand for renewals thanks to bringing in extra staff ahead of the anticipated rush.

“The Passport Service is successfully meeting the current high demand for passports, having implemented operational and staffing plans for 2023. all turnaround times are at their target level and there are no backlogs of either online or paper applications.

“Following a strategic media and communications campaign that was rolled out in December 2022 with a view to managing demand and encouraging applicants to apply online, the Passport Service received over 148,000 applications in January. This is the second highest monthly figure on record.

“The deployment of additional resources to the Passport Service customer Service Hub ensures that 100% of customers who call the Passport Service are getting through each day. The Passport Service has issued over 230,000 passports to date in 2023.

“The Passport Service is pursuing a Digital First strategy and promoting Passport online as the quickest, most convenient and least expensive channel for applicants.

“Passport online is available to 97% of applicants around the world regardless of whether they are first time applicants or are renewing their passport. over 90% of applicants from around the world now apply for their passport using this channel. The Passport Service continues to offer a range of application channels, including a paper-based service

for citizens who are not eligible or do not wish to use the Passport online service.

“There are currently over 49,000 fully complete online passport applications and over 18,000 fully complete paper applications in the Passport Service system. These applications are not considered outstanding, as they are being processed in line with normal turnaround times. There are a further 55,000 online applications and 11,000 paper applications in the Passport Service system that are pending further action by the applicant.

“The current processing times for all applications are as follows: online simple adult renewal - 10 working days; online child/complex renewal - 15 working days; Online first time application - 20 working days; Post Passport via an Post - 8 weeks,” explained an Tánaiste.

“The quicker processing times for online applications are a result of the centralisation of passport processing which Passport online has allowed for. There are limitations to the paper-based processing system which mean it will always be less efficient than the online system.

“The processing time of 8 weeks for paper-based applications compares favourably internationally with countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States, where advertised processing times are 10 weeks and 8-11 weeks respectively.

“Whilst there are no current plans to reduce the processing time for paper-based applications, the Passport Service is committed to maintaining the published processing time,” assured an Tánaiste.

Grow Remote Dundalk Table Quiz

THE Dundalk chapter of Grow Remote is excited to welcome local changemakers to their upcoming mental health awareness event. This event will be held on 30th March at Kennedys Bar Dundalk from 7pm to 10pm. Entry fee is €5 for individuals and €20 for a table.

Hello, How are You? is a campaign about connecting with those around us and engaging in open conversations about mental health. It’s about asking the question, ‘How are You?’ with meaning, and really listening to the response.

This is important

for Grow Remote because it is a social enterprise made up of remote workers and changemakers who seek to promote remote employment in their communities. Grow Remote’s mission is all about making remote employment more visible and accessible in local communities. across Grow Remote’s nationwide network of chapters, this has resulted in social, economic and

environmental impact.

Remote work has myriad benefits to employers, individuals and communities. However, isolation is the number one reported challenge to remote employees.

Working remotely can mean they can feel alone and lack the human connection of a traditional office space.

This is where the Grow Remote Dundalk chapter comes in. chapter Lead, ciara Breen, has been working since covid to build a local community of remote workersconnecting employees from eBay, PayPal and local SMEs through the

Grow Remote chapter. ciara says: “We are thrilled to bring this event to Dundalk and celebrate the Hello, How are You campaign. It is a great opportunity to bring together local remote workers and people interested in using remote work to improve their local community.”

This Hello, How are You event is coordinated in partnership by Grow Remote and Mental Health Ireland. For more information about Grow Remote Dundalk, join the “Grow Remote Dundalk group on Facebook or contact ciara Breen at ciara@ creativespark.ie.

Peter Fitzpatrick, tD.

“Where will evicted tenants go?”

‘Nobody has been able to answer where people in housing need, who are facing eviction, will go’. That’s according to Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú who blasted the government last week for their decision to end the Eviction Ban this weekend.

The Dundalk deputy was one of a large number of opposition TDs who excoriated the government for not extending the Eviction Ban, which will now ben lifted on april 1.

Sinn Féin has tabled in Leinster House this week proposing legislation that would extend the Eviction Ban to the end of January 2023.

In an impassioned speech in Leinster House last week, Deputy Ó Murchú said: ‘We often talk about unintended consequences but the Government is taking action today and beyond that will have definite consequences. Nobody has been able to answer where people in housing need, who are facing eviction in april, May, June and beyond, will go. I have yet to see any solutions to this.

‘In this State, our biggest problem is accommodation, whether that is the cost of mortgages, rent or buying a house. Meeting the criteria required to do so will probably become more difficult

in the next while.

‘I have already spoken about the cost of mortgages. our party has been straight with regard to the need for targeted and directed supports in the short term. That goes without saying but given the day and week that is in it, I also checked daft.ie like other speakers.

‘In Dundalk, there are six houses available at this point in time. In Dundalk and the surrounds, there are ten houses on daft.ie. People in my constituency office say estate agents are telling them straight out that they are dealing with people facing eviction who are already

on their books. They say they will try to do something for them but they cannot. Louth county council will say the same’.

and he pointed out the problems with the government’s proposed tenant in situ schemes, which aim to allow local authorities and approved Housing Bodies (aHBs) to buy houses where tenants are facing eviction because the landlord is selling.

He said: ‘Whatever about the in situ scheme for cost rental - we will see what that looks like - there are a huge number of people who cannot avail of the in situ pur-

Newly qualified Shona welcomed as new solicitor at District court

REcENTLY qualified solicitor Shona Goring was introduced at Dundalk District court last Thursday where she was welcomed by the court clerk, gardaí and members of the bar.

Shona is from Drogheda and is the only child of Bernette Kierans and Brendan Goring.

She was introduced by Frank McDonnell Solicitor who welcomed her as one of the ever-growing list of young solicitors in the town. He told the court that Shona attended our Lady’s college Greenhills in Drogheda before going on to study sociology, politics, and law in National University of Ireland, Galway between 20142017 and subsequently obtaining a Bachelor of civil Law degree in Dublin city University in 2020. Shona sat the New York Bar exams in December 2020 and now qualifies for admission in the state of New York. However, Shona chose the bright lights of Dundalk over those of Manhattan and has been training with Brian Berrills and company solicitors since March 2021 and qualified as a solicitor in February this year. He noted also that since

Shona has been training with Brian Berrills and Company solicitors.

qualifying Shona had taken up the position of Secretary of the Louth Bar association. She was also welcomed by the court clerk on behalf of the courts Services, Sergeant James McGovern on behalf of an Garda Siochana and Henry

Lynch BL welcomed her on behalf of the members of the Bar. Shona thanked everyone for their kind words and said she was grateful for the assistance afforded to her during her training by her colleagues and court staff and paid tribute to her

training solicitor, Mr Stephen Reel and all the staff at Brian Berrills & company. In taking up her position with the company, Brian Berrills & company are now the largest firm of solicitors in Dundalk.

chase scheme for those on a HaP tenancy.

‘There will be a room too many or a room too few or they might not be long enough on the housing list. Unless those criteria change, that is not going to cut the mustard.

‘Louth county council is processing 20 applications at the minute and its target is 30. That is not going to change anything given the need that is there. We need to get real about this’.

‘The sensible thing would be not to lift the eviction ban until such time as these proposed measures are in place’.

1—Complete the saying: ‘March comes in like a lion and goes out like a ....’?

2—Honeycrisp, Gala and Pink Lady are all types of what?

3—Which Spanish singer’s Hollywood Walk of Fame star is kept in pristine condidtion by a devoted band of elderly women?

4—Which actor played the nine-year old Cole Sear in the movie The Sixth Sense?

5—According to Google maps is Dundalk closer to Belfast city centre or Dublin city centre?

6—The name of which popular French dance derives from the French word for duck?

7—Who won the 1976 Eurovision Song Contest for the UK with Save Your Kisses For Me?

8—In which decade of the 19th century was the Irish Potato Famine?

9—Which is the largest vein in the human body?

10—Not including caretaker managers how many different men have managed the Republic of Ireland senior soccer team since Jack Charlton stepped down in 1995? Stinker—The songs Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, Space Oddity by David Bowie, Song 2 by Blur and Blue Monday by New Order all have what in common?

—this week’s answers—

They are all songs that don’t mention the song title in the lyrics.

1—Lamb, 2—Apples, 3—Julio Iglesias, 4—Haley Joel Osment, 5—Dublin city centre (81.5km to Dublin city centre compared to 83.5km to Belfast city centre), 6—Can-Can (derived from the word canard), 7—Brotherhood of Man, 8—1840’s, 9—Vena Cava, 10—Six- Mick McCarthy, Brian Kerr, Stephen Staunton, Giovanni Trapattoni, Martin O’Neill and Stephen Kenny. The Stinker:

The Birches aGM takes place tonight

The North Louth branch of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland will hold its AGM in The Birches, Priorland Road, Dundalk at 7pm on Wednesday March 29th.

Its monthly support group takes place in The Birches this Thursday (March 30th), also at 7pm.

ruairí Ó Murchú, tD.

St Patrick’s Day Parade awards presentation

A ShoRT presentation ceremony took place last Friday morning upstairs in the elgee building, Market Sq. Dundalk for the parade entry winners and the sponsors.

Three awards were up for grabs for the parade entrants and the judges from the parade’s main sponsors, Louth County Council, Dundalk Credit Union and PayPal had a very difficult job deciding.

The Best overall entrant, sponsored by Louth County Council, went to Dance Kids Blues Brothers, while the Best Commercial entrant, sponsored by PayPal was awarded to the electric vehicles of Blackstone Motors, and the Best Youth entrant, sponsored by Dundalk Credit Union, was given to McGee School of Dance.

There were many eye-catching moments in the parade, including the Louth County Council floats, designed and made by Louthbased artist, Uli Liebetrau. Dundalk actor Alvaro Lucchesi was St Patrick on the first float, surrounded by huge handmade shamrocks, while Louth Rose emma Barry defied the rain in the second float which featured oversized Spring flowers and garden creatures.

The Dundalk St Patrick’s Day parade voluntary committee, which is made up of councillors Conor Keelan and Maeve Yore, along with Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú, Shane McBride, Dagan Fleming, Maria o’Toole and Anne Campbell, said they were pleased with the turnout for the parade.

Susan L Murphy, presenting the award for Best Parade entrant to Karen Cumiskey, Dance Kids Blues Brothers on behalf of sponsor Louth County Council with Shane McBride and Maria o’ toole from the Dundalk St Patrick’s Day Committee.

tom D’Arcy and Megan Hughes present Dervla McGee from McGee School of Dance the award for Best Youth entrant on behalf of sponsors Dundalk Credit union, with Cllr. Maeve Yore from the Dundalk St Patrick’s Day Committee

Left Paul Holland from Blackstone Motors receiving the Best Commercial entrant award from James Abel (right) on behalf of PayPal, with Dundalk St Patrick’s Day Committee member Deputy ruairí Ó Murchú (centre)

Local Down Syndrome centre host successful fundraiser

By Tamara O’Connell

THE Down Syndrome centre North East hosted its third annual virtual walk/run fundraiser called ‘321 Go Neon’ to raise funds for the centre on Sunday, March 26.

The Down Syndrome centre North East Manager Denise Marron told the Dundalk Leader that participants were invited to dress up on neon or colourful clothing and to walk or run 3km over the weekend.

“over 200 people registered for the event online but many more people than that took part as they organised events in their own areas,” said Denise.

“The event was open to everyone in Ireland and abroad. For the Go Neon event, the word NEon represents the North East and it is bright and cheerful just like the children, families

The Down Syndrome centre North East is based in carrickmacross and is a non-profit organisation which provides subsidised essential services.

The services are aimed at the Down Syndrome community in the North East region for example cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and surrounding areas.

“We offer counselling, music therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, music therapy and baby massage courses to name but a few things,” said Denise.

“We offer much more and all of this is offered to families for free or is heavily subsidised.”

Mother-of-two Kathryn o’Reilly is based near Dunleer. She took

part in the Go Neon fundraiser as her two-yearold daughter clodagh has Down Syndrome and uses the centre in carrickmacross.

“We decided to take part because the centre provides such incredible services. We have attended the music class and the mother and toddler groups and speech and language therapy,” said Kathryn.

“They are a lifeline. The social aspect has been amazing as we are meeting families in the same position as ourselves.

“I have made some

care clinics ar ing h

lovely friends and so has clodagh.

She added: “It’s information or tips that you can’t necessarily find online. It also brought us some routine. I wanted to help raise some money to keep the centre on the road.”

ciera Laverty is a mother-of-three from Hackballscross. ciera and her husband, Eddie Laverty, are parents to three boys, Eamonn, aged nine; Eoghan, aged seven and oisin, aged five.

“Eoghan has Down Syndrome and has been using the centre since he was two or three,” said ciera.

“He likes going to it and attends occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy and Handwriting without Tears classes.

ciera added: “It takes a lot of fundraising to keep the centre going. a lot more families are using it.”

For more information on The Down Syndrome centre North East please visit www.dscnortheast. ie

Junior Parkrun put through their paces

ToDaY at Dundalk IT junior parkrun we were privileged to have special guests from the Irish Defence Forces, cpl Mark Hughes, PTE Sean Hughes, PTE Kevin Brannigan and PTE Marcus o Hagan of the 27th Infantry Battalion based in aiken Barracks, Dundalk.

This brought huge excitement for the junior park runners and walkers to not only have a Military police vehicle in attendance but to be put through their paces in a military style warm up routine before the start. children and families lined up for photographs with the soldiers and the MP vehicle. Even our heroes in high viz the volunteers on the morning got a group picture. In the run briefing, juniors were congratulated with their personal achievements from sports and school. Ryan Dowd won the U12 Leinster champions in the relay.

c harlie

Moran

achieved his half marathon Wristband. Brendan connolly reached his 100th volunteer milestone and caitriona Mccaughey her 100th parkrun run the day before. We also had last week’s run director carol Phillips celebrating her birthday and the kids wished her happy birthday clapping everyone’s achievement.

PTE Kevin Brannigan lead the warm up showing the kids exercises the army would use which made for some great action

pictures. The laughing and smiles on their faces spoke a thousand words with the aim of the warm-up to create fun while exercising. Some adults where exhausted just watching it never mind taking part. Then it was to the start line and ready steady go they where off on the 2km course around the pitches running, jogging and walking. our junior parkwalker Jim McDonald in his blue high viz encouraging the walkers with volunteer carol as

the tail walker keeping an eye on all the juniors and making sure everyone finished for hot and cold drinks and some fruit kindly provide by the armed forces.

Junior parkrun takes place in DKIT sports pitches every Sunday morning at 9:30am sharp. To register and for more information go to https://www.parkrun. ie/dundalkit-juniors/ or check out our social media on Facebook and twitter.

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Kathryn o’reilly and her 2 year old daughter Clodagh from Dunleer. the family fundraiser for the Down Syndrome Centre north east took place on Sunday 26 March.

Members of the defence forces with the junior parkrunners.

culture Day in Dundalk Grammar School Louth house prices rise 3% in a year

THE 4th annual celebration of culture Day took place in Dundalk Grammar School turning the school into a sea of colour and creating an atmospheric vibe and buzz making it not like any other day.

Whether their own culture or their adopted culture for the day, the colour of the attire made for fascinating imagery and brought the spirit of the day to life. This was a day to celebrate culture, and with over 50 cultures in the school, students were determined that their culture was going to get highlighted. While having pride in their school uniform, this was their opportunity to show their diversity and to demonstrate their pride in their culture, in a sense to celebrate their difference.

In highlighting difference, it was also to raise awareness of the richness of the different cultures, thus, to encourage greater understanding and mutual respect, and to show how much

THE average price of a second-hand, three-bed semi in county Louth rose by 3% in the past year, according to the latest national survey by Real Estate alliance.

mains at five weeks, the survey shows.

sell also remaining static at six weeks.

It was very much student led. Stalls, foods, cafe, musicians, flags, posters, decorations.

The concept of culture Day started in 2018, and continued in 2019. Break for covid in 2020 and 2021, and then back as a lower key event in 2022. But this year it was back in style.

The organisers were delighted to welcome to their celebration on the day the Indian ambassador to Ireland, ambassador akhilesh Mishra, and his wife, Mrs Reeti

Mishra. The ambassador and his wife embraced the whole celebration and enjoyed the event. other guests to attend included:

The Spanish Embassy - ana alonso (education advisor), The Swiss Embassy - Valerie Swan, Irish Japanese association - Verity Swan (IJa Member and Rotarian) and Margaret Morley (Rotary club District Governor and Rotarian), and Irish austrian association - Ulrike Schoeller (Vice President).

Three-bed semidetached home values in the county remained at €260,000 during the first three months of 2023, the Q1 REa average House Price Index shows.

By concentrating on the actual sale price of three-bed semis, the survey provides an upto-date picture of the

Daffodil Day in Dundalk!

Kieran Clarke, President Dundalk Lions Club; Louise Mackle, tara Mackle and Dundalk Lions Club Coordinator tadhg o’Sullivan.

second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide.

First-time buyers made up 50% of the market during Q1 with 53% of buyers moving out from the cities.

The average time taken to complete a sale re-

In Dundalk, the average price for a three-bed semi remained static at €240,000, with time to sell this quarter falling by one week to three.

“For the first three months of the year the market has been buoyant, despite a shortage of property,” said Michael Gunne, of REa Gunne Property, Dundalk.

The average cost of a similar property in Drogheda is €280,000, the same as the previous quarter, with the time to

“The price gap is widening between new homes and second-hand homes and there is good value to be had in the second-hand market,” said Darina collins of REa o’Brien collins, Drogheda. across the rest of Ireland, the actual selling price of a three-bedroomed semi-detached rose by 0.6% over the past three months to €293,343 – representing an annual increase of 5.3%. each person and culture, although different, actually had in common. as part of the day long celebrations, the students put on a celebratory concert in the afternoon to celebrate culture through song, dance, poetry and music. The Day was organised meticulously by a diligent and hardworking team of 6th year students, ably assisted by other teams of students, each team performing their own particular function to bring the whole concept together.

Culture Day in Dundalk Grammar School

Ambassador Akhilesh Mishra and his wife, Mrs reeti Mishra, visit a History class, with History teacher, olwen Matthews

Students at the Spanish stall, with their Spanish teacher, Francisco Fernandez.

Students celebrating Indian culture at Celebration of Culture Day at Dundalk Grammar School.

Students at the German stall.

Students at the nigerian stall.

Students at the stall celebrating Irish culture.

awards aplenty for Réalt Na

Mara’s Matilda

hUGe Congratulations to the cast of Matilda from Réalt na Mara who took part in Féile Dramaíocht in An Táin during Seachtaine na Gaeilge.

Local school, Réalt na Mara won Best Choreography Performance of the day with amazing energy, singing and dancing in irish. Ruarc o’hanlon won Best Actor of the day. The children put in a lot of work in rehearsing at Réalt na Mara with their teacher Ms.Larkin and also at elite Star School of Performing Arts in which a lot of the children are members.

Best of luck to the cast of Matilda who are through to the Leinster finals in Mullingar at the end of the month.

More regional success for coláiste chú chulainn basketball

coLáISTE chú chulainn are once again Northeast Regional champions. This time in the Junior Boys section for second year players. They encountered formidable opposition from o’carolan college, Nobber, in what was a tightly contested final in the Phoenix centre, carrickmacross.

captain christos Kostopoulos lifted the regional trophy after he and his teammates overcame a poor first half performance to really show their defensive prowess in the second half. They are now through to the all-Ireland quarter final stage and hope to follow in the footsteps of their U16 classmates who went all the way and achieved all-Ireland glory in February. captain of the U16 team, Franciszek chmielecki, has been assisting coaches Mr. Slowey and Mr. Murray all year with the 1st and 2nd year teams. His experience of lead-

ing a successful team is evident in the continued successes of school basketball.

This year’s second year panel has also been bolstered by the inclusion of excellent first year players from the local club, Dundalk Ravens. Joseph osagie, Mohammed Sene, Kasparas Rimkus and Joshua osaghae are all first-year students but have played a massive role in the second-year panel and it looks like the future is bright for Basketball in coláiste chú chulainn.

Team on the day: christos Kostopoulos, Mylka Kaloso Kabangu (7pts), Maciej Dobros, Michael Dada, Ethan Gabriele alba (2pts), Mateo Brlenic (2 pts), oscar Smith, Morrison Emovon, Joseph osagie (18 pts), Kasparas Rimkus (7 pts), Joshua osaghae (2pts), alex charubins, Jason adomako, oran oakes, David Mishuhli, Junior Lulu Ndlovu.

reCruItInG For e VenInG 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/hr plus a 20% shift allowance. Vacancies immediate, as 4-6 weeks, training is required, if a new employee. If worked here before then refresher for 1-2 weeks, before, shift starts beginning of May. Also require 1-2 operators to work Fixed Night shift, 40 hr /week, 12 midnight - 8am, €15/ hr plus a 35% shift allowance.

Please forward full CV details or complete application form, available at reception, and send to:

Fr AnCIS DuFFY, General Manager, Gernord Ltd., Ballybay rd, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, A81YD83. 0876893662. francis.duffy@gerflor.com.

Captain Christos Kostopoulos receives his award from Paul O’Hanlon, basketball referee.

COL á ISTE Chú Chulainn are once again Northeast Regional champions. The Dundalk secondary school beat O’Carolan College, Nobber, in what was a tightly contested final in the Phoenix Centre, Carrickmacross.

Ruarc O’Hanlon, fifth class Realt na Mara pupil.

Back l-r: Alenah Copas, Kasey Clarke, Ruarc O’Hanlon, Sophia Mackin; front l Anna Kate Boyle, and Johnny Quinn

painting

Family Notices

NoVeNA NoVeNA 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) k.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) a.D.

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) J.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.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) M.B.

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) L.k

P ro PE r T y/r ENTALS SPEC i AL SE r V i CES

Prayer to St JuDe

saint Jude, glorious apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor has caused thee to be forgotten by many, But the church honours and invokes thee universally as the patron of hopeless cases – of matters despaired off. Pray for me who am so miserable, make use, i implore thee, of that particular privilege accorded to thee, to bring visible and speedy Help where help is almost despaired of. come to my assistance in this great need that i may receive the consolations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly (here make your request) and that i may bless god with thee and all the elect throughout eternity. i promise thee o blessed Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favour, and i will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. amen st Jude pray for us. and for all who invoke thy aid st Jude, help of the hopeless, aid me in my distress. Pray for us that we may be admitted into the company of the blessed, to rejoice in the presence of god forever. S.k.

Free BcP Wi-Fi point launched in cooley Kickhams

ATTENT io N—For B.E.R. CERTIFICATION of properties being offered for sale or rent, contact Robert Mulholland, BER assessor. 087 609 1906 www.louthber.ie.

3 bED room ho USE to rent close to DKIT and hospital, €1700 per month Tel 087 2514650.

To LET—Secure Lock-up Workshop & Yard, previously a successful lawnmower/ garden equipment repair business, rear Go Filling Station, Newry Road, Dundalk Enquires Tel 087 2071796.

ADVErTiSE yoUr hoUSE Premises for rent or sale to 55,000 readers a week from €5. Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 93 -20888.

ATTENT io N L ANDLor DS—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.

Two x 2 SEATE r fabric couches for sale, neat in size, perfect condition Tel 087 0967776.

SELL i T T hro U gh A CLASS ifi ED Only €5 for one week up to 20 words. 042 93 20888. The Dundalk Leader.

131 ToyoTA AVENS i S—2ltr diesel, 5dr, black, taxed 07-23,nct’d 02-23, 190k, full service history, new tyres, very clean car, €9,000 ono Phone or text 087 9017207.

ChimNEy & SToVE CLEANiNg—Tel Paul McArdle 042 933 2491 / 087 666 0094.

ChimNEy CLEANEr—The Clean sweep, clean & tidy, no dust. Brush & Vac. Also gutter cleaning. Contact - Cathal 087-2259799.

ADVErTiSE yoUr SErViCE to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 932 0888.

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

wiNDow CLEANiNg—Gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Domestic & Commercial. Call our office for a free quotation. Everkleen 042 935 2717 or 086 829 3585. www.everkleenservices. ie <http://www.everkleenservices.ie>. 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>.

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. bU i LD i N g S E r V i CES—Extensions, Renovations, Sunrooms, Conservatories and All General Maintenance. P.V.C. Fascia, Soffit and Guttering products supplied and fitted. Bathroom Refurbishment, Painting, Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling. All types of Roof Repairs & Maintenance. For free estimates Tel 087 260 2501.

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

C A r PENT ry & Joi NE ry—Maintenance and repairs, roofing, 1st & 2nd fix carpentry, sash window repairs. No job too big or small. Contact Seandon Carpentry 087 298 5110.

CArPET & oVEN CLEANiNg—Carpet, upholstery & specialist oven cleaning available. Call MVI Cleaning Dundalk on 042 94 21300 or visit www.mvicleaning.

ie.

r oofi N g rEPA ir S & S To VES—Stoves supplied and fitted, fully insured, Hetas certified. Contact Paul Englishby 087 6301914 or 041 98 94633 and Mark on 087 1302040 for roofing enquiries.

gArDEN & hoUSE mAiNTENANCE

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

ProPErT y mAiNTENANCE—Repairs, building, plumbing, painting, roof repairs, tiling, bathroom refurbishments, concreting, plastering, gardening, power washing, PVC facia and soffits, Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel Michael on 085-762-3758.

f ifi’S A LTE r AT io NS—Longwalk S.C. (formerly A-Alterations) Tel 083 011 8728. Zips, hems, clothes taken in or let out, also Dry Cleaning Service. Open Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30pm & Sat 10-2pm.

wATCh rEPAirS—Mechanical/Quartz (battery) and Vintage. In our own workshop. Most brands: Cartier, Longines, Omega, Revue, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen & more, also Jewellery repairs. Goldstar Jewellers, Demesne Shopping Centre Dundalk Tel. 042 93 39478.

Cllr. Reilly had previously highlighted the lack of high speed broadband in the area.

AFTeR a very long time in the planning and more than a few problems along the way, Cllr John Reilly has informed us that a free BCP Wi-Fi point is now available in the Cooley Kickhams complex in Monksland.

This is a tremendous cornerstone, Cllr Reilly says, for the Cooley complex building going forward. The opportunity now exists for a high-speed

digital hub which has endless possibilities going forward for the local community.

Coming into politics at the height of the lockdown, Cllr Reilly claims the lack of highspeed broadband in so many rural areas was a disadvantage. A short number of years ago, the concept of working from home was practically non-existent.

The absence of highspeed

broadband in any rural area is a hindrance to economic development and growth.

This will all brought about by funding from Minister heather humphreys. her department played a huge role in seeing these developments through.

Cllr Reilly thanked all the committee of the Cooley Kickhams GFC for their wonderful cooperation in this process.

TiLEr AVAiLAbLE—Experienced local tiler to carry out all types of tile workmarble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and out. Call 087-387-8995 for free quote.

SC Ti L i N g—Professional Tiler, Specialises in full bathroom refits. Top Class Work Guaranteed Call Shane—086 107 5080. grimLEy ’S DUbLiN ST. DUNDALK Televisions, TV aerials, satellite, Freeview & Saorview, new installations, sales, service & repairs. Free estimates 042 935 4343. mobiLE homE TrANSPorT—Transported throughout 32 Counties. Contact Eugene 086-607-1702.

PA i NTE r AVA i LA b LE—Keen rates, no job too small! Call 086 3848079.

P LASTE ri N g S E r V i CE AVA i LA b LE

Free quotations. Contact David 085 7829910 or Gavin 086 3799285.

C A r PET AND U P ho LSTE ry cleaning. Home and Office contract cleaning. Over 10 years’ experience. RTM Cleaning Services contact Robbie 087 3817618. DDS PA i NT i N g & Decorating Services. Dundalk area. Internal and external painting and wallpapering. Free estimates within 12 hours. 10 years experience. Tel David 085 7308777.

gA r DEN i N g—Lawns cut, hedges cut, trees trimmed and topped. Telephone Tom 087 2296441.

PAiNTiNg—Interior and exterior painting. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 8604048.

rE f LE xo Logy—Feeling stressed, tired, fed up and need an energy boost for the spring... try a reflexology treatment and reap the benefits. Contract Rosemarie 087 2058644.

S E mi-r ET ir ED m AN available for Painting, Internal & External. 30 Years experience. Also power washing services, etc. Tel Dermot 087 2993660.

No N -S U rgi CAL human hair replacement system. Undetectable for those wishing to boost confidence and regain that younger look. Phone Dundalk 083 064 5859.

LANDSCAPiNg—Flower beds tided up, outdoor cleaning, patios, footpaths, walls, general property maintenance, exterior painting of fences, gates, walls, etc and decking cleaned. Dundalk & District. Tel. Jim 086 3818184.

E AS y-goi N g country lad, mid 50s with GSOH seeks like-minded female companion late 40s/mid 50s with no ties. For walks/talks and to share the simple things in life. Tel 0868220403.

gET fi T the fun way and learn to dance, the Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Jive, now taking place in the Lisdoo, Dundalk Tuesday’s from 8pm - 10pm, no partner required. Newly Wed first dance lessons and private lessons also available. Contact 086 357 3271 for further information. f r ENC h g ri NDS AVA i LA b LE for Junior and Leaving cert, All levels. Individual and small group options. Tel 086 8723340. DrUm LESSoNS iNCLUDiNg boDhrAN—For adults & children aged 8 years upwards. One to one lessons. Phone 087 414 4228.

PowEr wAShiNg—Get ready for Spring/Summer. Power washing of driveways/paving/walls. Competitive rates. Call Will on 085 8604048.

bUiLDEr & homE mAiNTAiNENCE

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

Po D i AT ry/Chiro P o D y treatment in the comfort of your own home. Ms. Dara McCoy, Bsc. Podiatry 0871924794. Lo

job too big or too small. Patios, driveways, walls, also grass cutting & gutter cleaning. Contact James 089 9705466 for free quotation.

New barriers will make roads safer

LoUTH county council are installing almost two kilometres of vehicle restraint barriers at designated locations around the county, as part of the council’s Road Safety Plan.

The total investment will amount to over half a million euro, to improve vehicular safety on Louth’s roads, and when complete will offer the most advanced safety barrier system available worldwide.

These works are funded by TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) and Louth county council.

Local roads set to benefit from these state of the art safety barriers include the N53 Dundalk-castleblayney, N52 (ardee), R178 Dundalk to carrickmacross, and the L1153 (Killany) contractor Lagan operations & Maintenance, are carrying out the work on behalf of Louth county council. Installation of the new and replacement barriers is expected to be completed by the end of april.

Louth county council’s Director of Placemaking and Physical Development, catherine Duff, welcomed the works, saying: “When complete Louth’s county roads will have an advanced and innovative barrier system offering the safest level of road safety in the event of vehicles losing control or being involved in a collision and leaving the main road carriageway.”

The unique barrier terminals also prevent the potential risk of ‘spearing’ of vehicles which was a risk under older systems, and are carefully designed to contain vehicles from potentially careering off the road.

Paul Holland Sales Manager Blackstone Motors Dundalk proudly displaying Best Commercial entrant Award from this year’s Dundalk St. Patrick’s Day Parade.