03-10-2012 by Peter Kierans

18,000 COPIES WEEKLY Local band launch album Page 14

Estate’s garden competition winners Page11 & 18

Page 13

Wednesday, 3rd October, 2012. Vol. 5, Issue 40 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com

Zoe sets the tone for inspiring weekend By Niamh Kirk

A 12-year-old girl is setting the tone for the inspiring weekend ahead when makes a huge sacrifice to do her bit for Relay for Life. Zoe Stewart, who has lost two grandparents to cancer in recent years, was so touched by the Relay for Life in 2011 that she decided to to give a little extra and for the past 12 months she has been growing her hair which will cut it this October 7 at the main event in The Marshes. Last year’s event inspired nine year old Zoe Stewart to give a little extra and for the past 12 months she has been growing her hair and will cut it this October 7 at Relay for Life. Like many the Stewart

family have been touched by cancer. Four Years ago Zoe’s Grandfather Gerard Norton lost his battle with cancer and ever since the family have made huge efforts to raise funds for the Irish cancer society through relay for life. All of Mr Norton’s grandchildren called him Pops, which led them to name their team ‘Top of the Pops’ in honour of him. Sadly this year the family were affected once again when Zoe’s Grandmother, Majella Stewart passed away after a fight against cancer. Each year for the past three years the family and their friends have hosted a selection of events to raise funds for Relay for Life from Come Dine With Me’ style events to the Rhythm for life concert in Blackrock. They have raised a considerable

Big weekend for sport

Zoe Stewart will have her hair cut at Marshes SC this Sunday.

amount of money and already giving so much Zoe has decided to give something more – her hair. She asked her parents if

she could arrange to donate her locks to the Rapunzal Foundation - which helps people with hair loss by Continued on Page 10

Keelan wants landfill site turned into public park Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Council to ascertain how soon the land landfill site on the Councillor Con- Newry Road can be or Keelan has again developed for amenurged Dundalk Town ity purposes which By Paul Byrne

could possible include a park and three football pitches. Cllr Keelan’s request comes on the back of an article in last month’s Irish Times which outlined plans for a ‘Central Park’ type project

on the grounds of a former dump on the Kinsale Road in County Cork. Speaking at last Tuesday’s town council meeting Cllr Keelan urged the council to contact the Envi-

ronmental Protection Agency with a view to looking into transforming the dump on the Newry Road into a park. “I read the article in the Irish Times regarding the project on the

Kinsale Road in Cork and I was surprised at the speed in which they seem to be getting things done. They have earmarked the par to be formally opened in two years time and fully completed by 2018.

“With this in mind I have asked Dundalk Town Council to contact the EPA and the people behind the Cork project to determine how we should proceed if we want to do something similar with

our dump. I hope to get some information back for our next council meeting next month.” The Dundalk landfill was closed in 2005 and is currently under the supervision of the EPA.

Got a Story? We want to hear from you Phone: 0429320888 Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com

Peter McKeown, Kevin Haughey and Gavin Duffy at the Podracer CD launch in The Castle Bar.

Progress on new school County Louth VEC has said that ‘significant progress’ is being made in planning for the establishment of Dundalk’s new post-primary school. In July the Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn, T.D., announced that Co. Louth VEC will act as sole patron of a new 1,000 place post-primary school in Dundalk, which will have first year students on site by September 2014. CEO of the VEC, Dr. Pádraig Kirk, stated that construction of the new school is expected to commence early next year and is currently at the design stage,

while the name is expected to be announced in the near future. The VEC received 841 parental expressions of interest for the Dundalk school as part of their application for patronage to the Department Dr. Kirk said, “we will soon be contacting all of those parents that supported our patronage applications to update them on progress. “Enrolment forms for the new schools will be made available before the end of this year for first year students starting post-primary school in September 2014”.

Two more fuel laundering plants found

Gardai and customs officers have discovered two fuel laundering plants near the Border. The plants were found three miles apart at Aghafad, near Carrickmacross in County Monaghan, and Muff in County Louth. They had the capacity to launder a combined 20 million litres of fuel a year, the Revenue Commissioners said. Two Louth men, aged 47 and 54, were arrested at the County Monaghan site, where thousands of litres of toxic waste were found. Gardai seized lorries, a Mercedes car and fuel laundering equipment at the two sites. Revenue said the operations were part of an ongoing crackdown and were carried out following surveillance activity.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Call to support Sunday’s Relay for Life event By Paul Byrne

Damien Higgins, mission chairman for the Dundalk Relay for Life has urged the people of Dundalk to attend this year’s event which will take place in the Marshes Shopping Centre this Sunday. The event which will take place over 12 hours aims to raise some much needed funds for the Irish Cancer Society as well as being a celebratory event which honours current and former cancer patients, their families and friends. According to Damien the relay will also focus on promoting four services that are available to anybody who has been affected by cancer. “The Relay for Life event will raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society who don’t receive any Government funding. Money raised at the event will go toward their community based support services that help people with the disease and their families. “This year we are promoting four important services that are available to people in the Louth area. We have the free-phone number 1800

News

in Brief Separated Parents

The next Tuesday meetings of Parents Separated Support Group are due take place on: October 2 and November 6. Meetings are scheduled for the first Tuesday of every month at Social Services Building, 15A Clanbrassil Street. There is a minimum attendance policy, so those wishing on attending phone 0857303609 to confirm.

Damien Higgins (left) at the opening of the 2011 Relay for Life

200 700 which is an information point for all aspects of cancer. “says Damien “We have our ‘Survivors supporting survivor’s programme which is a one-to-one support programme, providing emotional and practical support to newly diagnosed patients. “We will also be telling people about the night nurse programme which provides end of life care for cancer patients and their families in their own home. “Finally we will be showing people where some of the money from

relay for life goes with regards to research into the disease and various studies which are taking place. Not many people realise this but Ireland are actually one of the world leaders when it comes to cancer research” explains Damien. “It is massively important to raise awareness about the disease, and encourage people to get screened as early diagnosis is key in fighting the disease. People need to made aware of the symptoms and to know what to look for.” The Relay for Life will begin at 9am on

Sunday October 7 in the Marshes Shopping Centre and will run for 12 hours. The event will include a packed timetable providing fun for all the family including karaoke competitions, live music and the candle of hope ceremony. There will also be a special children’s lap with the theme of prince and princess which will take place at 1.50pm. All children are invited to dress up as their favourite prince or princess with a prize on offer for the best dresses boy or girl.

Man wants to be better father A man who was described in Dundalk District Court as trying to turn his life around in order to become a better father to his new son. Stephen Maguire of 22 Maple Close, Avenue Road, Dundalk, was charged with possession of an article with intent to cause injury following an incident on January 20 this year. Gardai had been called to a report of a disturbance in Bridge St at 8.45pm that day. Maguire had a baseball bat which he discarded over a wall. The

bat was recovered and the defendant arrested. His solicitor, Dermot Monahan, stated that his client had a poor record but was trying to put his life in order following the birth of his son. He was determined to put his past behind him and to be a good father to his son. He asked that his client be assessed for community service. Judge Flann Brennan adjourned the case until November 21 pending a report.

New sports campus one step closer Co Louth VEC has revealed that its planning application for the development of an extensive outdoor sporting facility at Dunleer has met with local authority approval. Earlier this year the VEC lodged a planning application with Louth Co. Council for the development of sporting facilities on a seven acre site adjacent to its second-level school in the mid-Louth town. The planning application was made as part of

a VEC development proposal to the Sports Capital Programme 2012. The programme, which is being administered by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, aims to foster an integrated and planned approach to developing sports and physical recreation facilities throughout the country. If successful, the VEC project will involve the construction of a new full-size 400m running track, a grass football pitch, a jogging

track, tennis courts, javelin, highjump, long-jump and shot putt facilities and changing rooms, as well as perimeter fencing and floodlighting. CEO of the VEC, Dr Pádraig Kirk said that, “this is great news for the VEC, our project partners and the whole Dunleer community in general. A lot of effort was put into preparing this planning application and I want to thank everybody involved for their hard work”.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Big weekend on the local sporting front

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

By Paul Byrne

Sunday could prove to be a glorious day of sport for County Louth with both Dundalk FC and the Louth Ladies GAA team in action this weekend. On Sunday afternoon Dundalk FC are bidding to reach their first FAI Cup final since 2002 when they beat Bohs to lift the cup for the ninth time. In what has been a tough year for the Lilywhites, the FAI cup has proved a welcome distraction and Sunday’s semifinal against high flying St Pats in Oriel Park should be a game to savour. Dundalk manager Darius Kierans acknowledged that his young side face a tough task in reaching the cup final but insists his side have nothing to fear on Sunday. “It’s a massive game and it’s a great opportunity for our young lads to win a cup early on in their career. To get to a cup final would lift the whole place and give everybody a lift. We’ve already beaten Pats this year and that was down in their place when we had only ten men so it can be done” explained Darius. “Hopefully the fans will come out and support the boys in what is a huge match and give them all the

David Crawley, Darius Kierans, Peter Cherrie and Liam Burns

support they need.” he added. Tickets for Dundalk’s crunch semi-final are available from Dundalk FC, Photospeed in the Longwalk, the tourist office and also the Marshes shopping centre information desk. There will be a draw at half time for two tickets for the forthcoming international between Ireland and Germany. Anybody who buys a ticket for Sunday’s semi-final will automatically be eligible to win the coveted tickets. The match kicks off at 3.55pm Meanwhile, the Louth Ladies GAA team will be aiming to bring back silverware from Croke Park on Sunday afternoon where they will face Antrim in the All Ireland Junior Championship Final. This

is Louth’s second final in recent years and they’ll be looking to go one step further than in 2010 when they were beaten by Limerick. Sunday’s game is bound to be a close affair but the Louth ladies will go into the final with confidence having already beaten Antrim in this year’s championship. The game throws in at midday and the Louth Ladies will be hoping for a big crowd in attendance to help them see off their opponents. For those who can’t get enough sport, the Louth Senior Championship Final will also take place on Sunday with champions, St Patricks, hoping to defend their title against a Dreadnots side appearing in their first ever decider.

Annagassan Historical Society Annagassan and District Historical Society will hold their third excursion of 2012, as Bryan Rogers will conduct a history tour around Dillonstown and Willistown near Annagassan. Assembly is at St. Finnian’s Church, Dillonstown at 2:30pm. Car parking spaces are available. During the loop walk,

Bryan will outline some of the stories associated with the Dillonstown and Willistown lower areas. The tour will see the house where Sylvester Heaney lived prior to his execution during the Civil War. It will then proceed to the old Willistown School and Bryan will outline some of its his-

tory. From there we will walk down Willistown Lane Lower where the tour will discuss the history of the area including the Ward’s old forge, the salmon smokery and the people who lived in this little community. The group will then walk along the Dee riverbank past Willistown Weir, constructed as part

of Manning’s Glyde Dee Drainage scheme in the 1840s. The tour will rejoin the road near Ballygassan House, which was burnt during the civil war. Part of the walk is very muddy so wellie boots are essential. Cost is €5 and children are free. New members are always welcome to join the society.

Lotto Winner Maria Kinsella from Cortown, Dunleer, a €5,000 winner at the National Lottery’s 25th Anniversary Prize Giveaway Draw in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham is pictured with draw hosts Jedward and Marty Whelan.

Call to enter debating contest DEBATERS ranging in age from secondary school students to the active retired from across Louth and the northeast are being invited to take to the soapbox at Dundalk Library next month

as part of a European debating competition. The winners from the Dundalk competition on October 18 will receive an Apple iPad and a trip to Brussels along with the chance to represent

their region in a national final at Farmleigh House with a first prize of €1,000. The topic for debate will be the age-old issue of whether ‘Youth is wasted on the young’.

Entries for the Dundalk soapbox competition on October 18 can be made through www. europedirect.ie or by calling to Dundalk Library.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

News

in Brief

Altercation at Carroll Village junction A woman who was involved in an altercation with the girlfriend of her former boyfriend had the case against her adjourned until December 19 at Dundalk District Court.

Sonya Muckian, 27 Dublin St, Dundalk, was driving a car in which her boyfriend was a passenger at the Carroll Village junction on September 9, 2010, which pulled across a car being driven by her former boyfriend. An altercation between the two males followed, while the defendant tried to connect with the female passenger in the other car, and shouted abuse at her.

Solicitor, Frank McDonnell, explained that his client was in full employment and had never come to the attention of the Gardai before. He stated that there had been no blow struck during the incident.

Knockbridge’s got talent The Knockbridge Vintage Club are hosting Knockbridge’s Got Talent as part of the Knockbridge Vintage Day 2012 on October 7. If you can sing, dance, are a member of a band, group, a magician, impressionist or can entertain in any way then this is the competition for you. Knockbridge’s Got Talent is open to all, regardless of level of ability, age or where you are from. The only requirement is that you register. Registration for the competition is free but there are limited places available. There will be three judges on the day who face the hard task of selecting the champion for the coveted title of the Knockbridge’s Got Talent Champion 2012 and the brilliant cash prize of €250. There will be

many other brilliant prizes up for grabs including the “People’s Choice Award” where spectators will have a chance to vote for their favourite act on the day. The talent search is now underway so get your entries in today. If you are a singer, musician, dancer, variety act, magician, or any other form of entertainer and you think you’ve got what it takes, the Knockbridge Vintage Club would love to hear from you. To register, please email your details to knockbridgevintageclub@ hotmail.com. Applications will only be accepted by email. All applicants will be notified before the Knockbridge Vintage Day. If you require more details check out the Knockbridge Vintage Club Facebook Page or contact 087 6272227.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Self-Employed Alliance group heading to Dail A Dundalk group set up to campaign for the rights of self employed has been invited to meet with a Government subcommittee to discuss their concerns. The Dundalk Self Employed Alliance was formed earlier this year and hope to make an impression on public representatives today (Wednesday) at Leinster House. One of the founding members of the alliance, Jock McArdle, explained that the aims of the group are quite straightforward. “As self-employed people, all we are looking for is equal rights with PAYE workers. The winners of the luxury hamper at the Irish Heart Foundation car boot sale in Lordship on September 23 were Denise and Alisha Ryan who received their prize from Venora O’Brien. The IHF are grateful to all who supported the event.

“If you are self-employed, it doesn’t matter what contribution you make, you don’t get the same rights as PAYE workers if you become unemployed. “We want a situation where we can make the same contributions and get the same benefits. At the moment if we stop working, we are not classed as unemployed but put into a different category”, explained Jock. Those concerns will be voiced at the meeting with the Joint Committee on Education and Social Protection, which is made up of 22 TDs and Senators, and joining

Jock on the delegation will be Barry Connolly, Cathal Cassidy, Denis Dolan, Derek Watters and Fred Matthews. “We made a submission to the committee and they invited us to attend a meeting, while our case has also been supported by TD Ray Butler who himself was self-employed”, continued Jock. The Dundalk Self Employed Alliance, meets every Tuesday in the Chestnut Café, Long Walk, and are open to new members joining them. The hope is people with similar concerns in other towns will create similar groups to create a nationwide network.

Pete Treanor’s

Weekly Quiz

1. Nature What name is given to the fruit of the oak tree? 2. Cartoons & Comics What is Fred Flintstone’s home town? 3. Ireland By what name is Dublin’s Monument of Light better known? 4. Soaps Which popular movie star, then a little known actor, played the part of Randy in the original series of Dallas? 5. Toys and Hobbies Which British doll was introduced by Pedigree toys in Britain in 1963 in a bid to rival Barbie 6. Rock and Pop Which rock star, popular from the 1950s onward was famous for his ‘Duck Walk’ dance? 7. Irish History Who in 1920 was the first Irish Republican to be executed since the leaders of the 1916 Rising?

8. Books What is the name of Nick Hornby’s book, charting his days following the fortunes of Arsenal FC? 9. Sport Which three-time world champion F1 driver, later became a champion pigeon shooter? 10. Local In what year was Rawson’s Shoe Factory destroyed by fire? Stinker According to the American Folk Song, who died by taking her ducks to water while wearing size nine shoes?

—this week’s answers— 1. Acorn 2. Bedrock 3. The Spire 4. Brad Pitt 5. Sindy 6. Chuck Berry 7. Kevin Barry 8. Fever Pitch 9. Jackie Stewart 10. 1970. Stinker : (O My) Darling Clementine.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

News

in Brief Separated Parents meet

The next Tuesday meetings of Parents Separated Support Group are due take place on: October 2 and November 6. Meetings are scheduled for the first Tuesday of every month. Cost €5 to include refreshments on arrival. From 7.30 to 9pm at Social Services Building, 15A Clanbrassil St. Please note there is a minimum attendance policy, so those wishing on attending, need to confirm their intentions with Val on 085 7303609.

Euro headquarters provides jobs boost By Niamh Kirk

There was more good news on the jobs front last week when pet products innovators and manufacturers, Radio Systems Corporation, announced they were opening their European Headquarters in Dundalk. Radio Systems PetSafe Europe Ltd will be fully operational by January with David Verdon as European Operations Manager at the helm. David is described as “an experienced operations professional with three previous US multinational start-ups under his belt and leadership roles

at Luzern Technologies and Palm Global Operations.” The company will create 56 jobs will be created in total over the next three years but they are taking on 25 people by the end of December and there are already 20 full-time associates with the company at the moment covering a number of different positions. The company will operate a multilingual customer services centre, finance, order management, supply chain and human resources departments from the Elgee Building in Market Square. Mr Verdon has said that overall they have

not encountered many difficulties getting people that they were looking for. Languages are only one element of the skill set required for the job and it has in general it has not been a problem. He added that he “is very happy with the quality of applications that they received and the calibre of people they have hired so far.” The opening of the new office follows on from comprehensive market research and evaluation and will result in the creation of 56 new jobs over the next three years. The investment is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. John Brady, from Dundalk won €22,200 on last Saturday’s National Lottery Winning Streak TV game show held in RTE. Pictured at the presentation of winning cheques were from left: John Brady, winning participant; Eddie Banville Head of Marketing The National Lottery and Marty Whelan, game show host. The winning ticket was bought in Londis Castletown Road

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Zoe sets the tone for inspiring weekend Continued from Page 1 manufacturing natural hair wigs from donated hair. And her parents delightedly agreed. She’s not nervous about getting her hair cut but is a little about doing it in front of a big crowd, However Team Top of the Pops will be there to support her. Zoe is already

planning another big step for charity and wants to do a parachute jump. Ever-generous Zoe, who plays Gaelic for the Geraldines, is going to be missing their trip to the Ladies All Ireland Final is only a little disappointed but is much more looking forward to knowing that another young

girl or boy who needs it will have a natural hair wig. This is in an extremely limited supply for those who need it most, because it must be undyed and untreated it is largely only younger people who can donate the 12” of hair. All Zoe has to do is to make the cut , after growing her hair for more than one year it

must be specially prepared before her aunt , hairdresser Lisa Owens from Blackrock, cuts it at Rely for Life. You can sponsor Zoe through Fusion Hair Salon in Blackrock or though the http://www.mycharity.ie/ event/top_of_the_ pops/?ref=nf#.UGNxb0S5Kw.facebook account.

The annual Relay for Life in aid of the Irish Cancer Society are inspirational events, each year they gain momentum as more people are touched by the charity’s pursuits to raise awareness and funds while celebrating those who have battled cancer and remembering those who have been lost to it.

New European e-learning course at DkIT

A new European e-learning course for Business Advisors, www.business-advisor.eu has been launched to help entrepreneurs update their skills and adapt their services to changing business needs. In today’s economy tools that can help businesses to grow and provide employment are not only welcome they are much needed. With the inconsistency in the standard of business advice available, high quality support can help business succeed and thrive. The School of Business at DkIT is proactively linking to business and connecting academic expertise to the real world through this free online programme that is available to all. l Our picture (on left) shows: Back Row (left to right): Canice Hamill (Canice Consulting), Catia Furtado (SPI), Cathal Kearney (DKIT), Cecile Rousseau (EBN) , Fiona Oster (DKIT). Front (left to right): Monika Woytkiewicz (Szczecin University), Denis Cummins (President, DKIT), Michael Johnson, (DLRCEB), Mihaela Constantinescu (CCINT).

W Polsce wrzesień to czas sezonu grzybowego. Tu w Irlandii zbieranie grzybów nie jest zbyt popularne, choc deszczowa aura sprzyja grzybni. W okolicy nie ma też specjalnie lasów i borów, ale przecież tu wystarczy jeden dorodny swierk i w jego cieniu aż roi się od maślaków czy borowików. Oto co na temat grzbobrania znajdziemy w encyklopediI: “Grzybobranie – pozyskiwanie owocników grzybów ze stanowisk naturalnych.” W krajach północnosłowiańskich masowo zbiera się wiele gatunków dzikich grzybów do celów spożywczych. W przeszłości istniały zwyczaje związane z grupowym zbieraniem grzybów, których literacki obraz znajduje się w Panu Tadeuszu Adama Mickiewicza. Grzybiarstwo może być też źródłem zarobku, np. dla ludności sąsiadującej z lasami. Współcześnie w Polsce stanowi często rodzajhobby lub zajęcia rekreacyjnego. Kosz z grzybami Zwyczaj zbierania grzybów nieodzownie wiąże się z prawem do korzystania z lasu. Zbieranie możliwe jest jeżeli: las jest własnością prywatną zbierającego, zbierającemu przysługuje taki serwitut (w przeszłości dwór udostępniał ludnościwiejskiej drewno, runo leśne, grzyby czy chrust), las należy do przestrzeni publicznej (w Polsce obecnie większość lasów stanowi własność Skarbu Państwa zarządzaną przez Lasy Państwowe i każdy może w nich zbierać grzyby). Prawo do zbierania grzybów nie obejmuje gatunków chronionych, obszarów chronionych (w tym tzw. szkółek) ani prawa do eksportu. W polskim klimacie większość gatunków grzybów jadalnych dojrzewa w okresie od późnego lata do późnej jesieni (tj. najczęściej od sierpnia do października), w związku z czym grzybobrania odbywają się także w tym czasie. Szybki wzrost grzybów wymaga utrzymującego się przez kilka dni wilgotnego podłoża (tj. wymaga deszczu). Przed konsumpcją grzyby muszą zostać poddane suszeniu, marynowaniubądź gotowaniu (składnik zup i sosów). Pamiętajmy także o niebezpieczeństwie związanym z zatruciem się trującymi grzybami. Bądźmy ostrożni i zbierajmy tylko te grzyby, co do których mamy stu procentową pewność. Udanych spacerów! Agnieszka Boniewicz

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

News

in Brief Gold medal for Dundalk woman

Linda Tierney from Coe’e Road, Dundalk, won the gold medal in the recent Irish Photographic Federation ‘Best Print/Slide’ category. This competition is open to all club members in Ireland and what makes the achievement more outstanding is the fact that Linda only started her interest in photography less than five years ago. To win the event, Linda beat off competition from all the major clubs in the country and she is now regarded as one of the best in Ireland. Linda is a member of “An Tain’ photo group which begins its 2012/13 in September. It meets every Monday at 8pm in Clan na Gael clubrooms and everyone is welcome to come along and bring a camera.

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you

Phone: 0429320888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com

Long serving staff at VEC retire A number of long serving staff members, including teaching, administrative and care-taking staff, recently retired from service with Co. Louth VEC. Teachers Ita Honan and Mary Corrigan retired at the end of August. Ita was employed as a teacher with the VEC since August 1991, based initially at the Ogra Dun Dealgan Centre at Chapel St. later moving to at the FAS Community Training Workshop at Mulholland Avenue in Dundalk. Since 1999 Mary was based at the Tara Education Workshop at Chapel St. in Dundalk. Mary’s retirement coincided with the closure of the Tara Workshop this summer. Mary was the most senior teacher at the centre prior to its closure. She played a key role in many developments and initiatives at the centre over the years and had earned the respect of genera-

tions of learners that passed through the centre. VEC administrative staff member Veronica Duffy retired at the end of August. Veronica commenced her employment with the VEC as a temporary clerical officer in 2002 having moved there from banking. School caretakers Kevin Keelan and Seamus Thornton retired from service at the end of August. Kevin commenced his work with the VEC in September 2003 and was based at O’Fiaich College in Dundalk. Seamus started work with the VEC in November 2002 and was based at Bush Post-primary School. The Committee and the CEO congratulated all of the retiring staff members for their tremendous work and outstanding achievements during their time with the VEC and wished them health and happiness in their retirement.

First prize in the Seafield Lawns Garden Competition was won by John and Mary McGuone. The winners are pictured with Martin Bellew and Tony Hartigan

Over to you Are people becoming obsessed with smartphones?

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

News

in Brief

Beekeepers’ Meeting Paudy Byrne

Sean MacAonghusa

Sophie McGinn

Ryan Washington

Conor Winters

Personally I think people are getting a bit carried away with smartphones. I think the hype around them is over the top. I use my phone to call people and to text and that’s more than enough for me.

While I think queuing up for the latest smartphone is a bit over the top I would be into my smartphones. I’d use them regularly to check email, get the latest news as well as weather updates and the like. I do find them very handy I have to say.

I do think people are going a bit crazy trying to get the very latest phones all the time. I have the iPhone4 and I’m pretty sure that there’s not a whole lot of difference between it and the latest one.

I would be into smartphones myself. I have an iPhone and I find that they are great for getting sports news and using it for Wi-Fi. I’d tend to use the phone quite a lot actually.

I do think that the obsession with phones has gone overboard at this stage. I can’t understand people who would queue for hours to get the latest phone. It’s a bit much in fairness.

Council unites to end diesel price differential At Tuesday night’s meeting of Dundalk Town Council, there was unanimous cross party for a motion calling on the Finance Minister to end the price differential between road diesel and marked diesel. The motion was proposed by Green Party Councillor Mark Dearey who explained that the issue was now the business of this council, as the toxic sludge residue from the washing of marked diesel was now threatening water courses and public health within the town boundary. “ I see it as our duty to protect our water courses and public health” said Cllr Dearey “ and

Cllr Mark Dearey

now the local authority that is most affected by the toxic impacts of diesel laundering is demanding action from the Minis-

pect a response”, continued Cllr Dearey. “The price difference between marked and road diesel creates an economic incentive. Remove that price difference and you destroy the incentive. “My motion also proposes that the Minister introduces a registration and rebate scheme so that farmers and other off road users of diesel pay the same as for road diesel but claim back a rebate every three months as happens in New Zealand for off road petrol use. “ I noted in my comments at ter for Finance. “The Council speaks with au- the Council meeting, that the thority on this matter and we IFA opposed such a scheme speak unanimously. We now ex- when addressing the Oireachtas

Transport Committee earlier this year. I urged them to reconsider their position given the scale of the problem we are now dealing with in Louth and the loss to the exchequer at a time when every tax euro matters. A phased rebate introduction starting in the winter months when fuel useage is lower should be possible. In time the quarterly rebate will then cover the excise incurred in the next quarter. The IFA’s support would I believe, be a necessary precondition for the Minister to acceed to what the motion proposes and I look forward to their considered response on this matter”, he added.

County Louth Beekeepers Association have organised a meeting in the Teagasc Centre, Dublin Road Dundalk. For Thursday October 4 at 8pm to 10pm. The programme for the night is as follows: 1. Talk on Cut Comb and how to make beekeeping easy by Tom Shaw 2. Beekeeping for beginners by Philip McCabe 3. Presentation of Certificates to the 31 new members who passed their Preliminary Beekeeping Exams. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Killanny Playground

Killanny Playground Committee presents the official opening of the parish playground on Sunday October 7 from 2pm to 6pm. The committee will provide bouncy castles for all ages, BBQ and sweet shop on the day also, games, raffles and music. All proceeds of the day will be used to reduce the outstanding loan of €33,000. Entrance fee is €5 per adult and children are free.

It is the time of year when people are beginning to make plans for their office Christmas party. For many it is one of the highlights of the year, but there can be some pitfalls. Here are some do’s and don’ts of office Christmas party etiquette aimed to keep your job, reputation and dignity in one piece. Do attend. Your office party is not an optional event. Even if you despise the thought of spending a whole evening with the people you work with every day, it’s a good idea to make an appearance. It shows that you are part of the team. Don’t dress inappropriately. And do dress professionally. The venue will determine the dress code so make sure you know what it is. “Women are advised to stay away from slinky dresses, low-plunging necklines,

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

short-short skirts or tight-fitting trousers”, according to workplace etiquette expert Pamela Holland. And, men “should refrain from unbuttoning more than two buttons on their shirts and wearing overly fitted shirts that show off their muscles”. Do some schmoozing. This is a good time to talk to people you wouldn’t normally come across and, of course, the boss. This could help you in the long term in terms of forging alliances, helping to get things done or just raising your profile. But... ... Don’t talk shop. Do you want to be seen as the office bore? The office party gives you the chance to get to know people as people not just ‘Julie from accounts’. Do drink in moderation. Excessive drinking is the number one cause of office party ‘incidents’. Remember, it is a marathon not a sprint and it is

likely that you will have a long evening ahead of you. But, by the time you realise this you may have already consumed enough alcohol to sink a battleship and not quite be with it. Stick to your limit, drink slowly or alternate between alcohol and water and, if it’s too late for that, then switch to soft drinks and mince pies. And resist the temptation to indulge in tequila shots or flaming drambuie or you may end up losing more than your inhibitions. Don’t make a move on a colleague. After a few hours and a few beers even Barbara from credit control can look like a goddess. But, before you make a bee-line for the person you’ve had your eye on all year, do yourself a favour, stay put and think, ‘Is this a good idea?’ ‘Probably not’, is the likely answer. Do watch your language. Remember the reason why you

are at the Christmas party in the first place is because you have a job. Avoid saying things you wouldn’t say on a normal office day. Don’t leave too soon. Tequila slammers with the girls from HR may be more appealing than your department’s party. But, unless you have made a holy show of yourself, stay for at least a couple of hours even if it is the most boring party ever. After all, it’s your boss that you need to impress when it comes to getting a promotion. Above all, enjoy the party. Strive to be remembered for the right reasons and not for your lustful antics or David Brent dancing. And, in the words of the great man himself from “The Office”, when asked how he would like to be remembered, he replied: “Simply, as, the man who put a smile on the face of all who he met.”

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Podracer launch new album in Castle Bar

Sloan Karen Coburn and Lorraine

John Rankin with Michelle and Sandy Sheelan

Paddy McBuckfast and Christopher Blair

Eilish Fahy and Rachel McArdle

Hearty James Crehan and Davina

Damian McGuirk and Steve Halpin

Tom Hanratty and Katy Morgan

Jean McGuinness, Eoin McD onnell and Kerry Moran

Darren McMahon, John Morrissey and Sinead Leonard

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

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Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

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Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Harvest Festival at Green Church Harvest Festival at Green Church St Nicholas Parish Church, (the Green Church), Dundalk is presenting a Harvest Concert on Friday October 12 at 8pm. The Choir of St Nicholas and Friends will perform much loved pieces and have invited The Cloughmore Male Voice Choir from County Down to sing a selection from their extensive repertoire. Also taking part in the concert are the beautiful children’s voices of the St Nicholas National School choir. Heading the line up for the concert the choir is delighted to welcome back Miriam Blennerhassett as guest Soloist. Miriam is a founder member of the highly successful group Anúna, the National Chamber Choir and The Drawing Room Opera Company, and she has sang for Opera Ireland in Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro and Puccini’s Madam Butterfly as well as numerous other performances, broadcasts and recordings, both at home and

audience of music lovers every year,” commented Sharon Eveson, Director of Music. “Following the success of last year’s Harvest concert, we are once again holding this event over the “Harvest Festival” weekend in St Nicholas’ when the Church will be decorated with flowers, fruits and vegetables to give praise to God’s Bounty.” Tickets at €15 are available from Oriel Office Supplies, The Ramparts or by phoning Toymaster at Forkhill, 048 30 888 808. The ticket price includes a wine reception in The Wellington Hall at 7pm prior to the concert. All proceeds from the concert will go to the Wellington Hall Restoration Fund. For anyone wishing to visit the The ‘Green’ Church Green Church over the Harvest weekend to see the decorations aboard. and displays, the church will also “The St Nicholas Choir is fondly be open to the public on Saturday known throughout the local 13th October from 10am to 4pm. community for the annual “Carols There will be live music from Zoe by Candlelight” service, which at- Conway and free guided tours of tracts a full multi-denominational the church.

Annual youth volunteer awards ºPost Primary Students are invited to get involved in the seventh annual Paramerica Spirit of Community Awards which acknowledges the outstanding acts of volunteering by Ireland’s Youth. Any students who give some of their time to their community either in Ireland or abroad, are encouraged to apply. All that is needed is to apply through their principles by who will review the applications, and then nominate two students, one for

each of the Junior and Senior categories. The junior’s are students up to 16 while the seniors are students between 17 and 19 years of age. The deadline for Applications is the 24 October and nominations are revealed on November 9th. Judges will select 20 finalists who will each receive a certificate of merit, €500, an engraved silver medallion and an invitation to the Gala Awards dinner to be

held in March. Two All-Ireland Youth Volunteers of the Year will be selected at the awards dinner. Each will receive €1,000 for a charity of their choice, a gold medallion and an all-expenses paid trip to the United States to attend the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards ceremony. The application form and further information about Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards can be downloaded from www.pramerica. ie/spirit.

Choice set to reform

LONG-time followers of Dundalk’s music scene will be happy to hear that the locality’s contribution to the post-punk movement Choice have reformed. Not only that but their single ‘Always in Danger’ has been featured on the recently launched compilation album Strange Passion - Explorations in Irish Post Punk, DIY and Electronic Music 1980-83. Choice will be performing with Jinx Lennon at his concert in the Dundalk Gaol on October 8 . Jinx said that he is very excited to see the band perform. “they were very inspiring to local musicians like myself who saw them on Irish tv performing their songs and playing locally”

Support act Souls rocked Corbetts at the Podracer Album Launch on Saturday night.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Family Notices

In Memoriam Announcements , Anniversaries, Birthday Remembrances, Thanksgivings & Acknowledgements. Birthday Remembrance

Garden competition in Seafield Lawns

In loving memory of Seamus Reilly, late of Roskeagh, Kilcurry, Dundalk who’s 40th birthday occurs on 1st October. Some friends are FOREVER Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life by being a part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can’t stop; someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. Thinking of you every day. Aidan, Bronagh, Ciara, Shauna & Laura

We are now taking Family Notices.

Second prize in the Seafield Lawns Garden Competition was won by Sean and Sheila Gordon. The photo shows Martin Bellew and Tony Hartigan presenting the prize

Our weekly Deadline is 4pm Fridays prior to Wednesday publication, contact Niamh or Noeleen for further information. Tel 042 9320888

PREMISES TO RENT/FOR SALE Attention BER’s now required for Better Energy Home Grants. For BER certification at affordable prices contact Robert Mulholland 087 6091906.www.louthber.ie Advertise your House/ Premises for rent or sale to 60,000 readers a week from €€5 Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 Wanted: 2/3 Bedroom House to rent. Dundalk area. Preferably a low cost as tenants will provide a high standard of maintenance inside and out. Call Anita 086-2023812 ARTICLES / ITEMS FOR SALE BEDS & FURNITURE DIRECT. Beds, mattresses, wardrobes, chests, lockers, pine beds etc., also furniture removals call 086 8704908 anytime. Bed & Mattress Sale, beds from €99, mattress from €69. Massive range on show (free delivery) The Bed & Sofa Store, Northlink Retail Park, Dundalk 042 9320927 Collon Furniture – Probably the most interesting shop in the North East. Arriving regularly: container loads of quality Dutch furniture. A wonderland of household furniture including leather & fabric suites, dressing tables, kitchen tables and chairs, pictures, mirrors, bedroom furniture. Open 364 days a year- you’ll pick up a bargain at Main Street, Collon. Tel 041-98 26484. The only Dutch furniture shop in the North East. Sell it through a classified, only €5 for one week up to 20 words, Phone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 Beds for Sale. Totally heavy solid pine beds. Brand new, super strong, rock solid bases, lifetime guarantee. Good deep super memory foam

mattresses included. Everything brand new. Can deliver. €89. 086820-8303 Dealgan Furniture Longwalk, Dundalk (inside The Paint Store), for a wide range of New & Used Bedroom, Dining room and Kitchen furniture, great deals on Beds & Mattresses. Water proof mattresses in stock. Suite reupholstery and furniture fixing service available Tel 042-9329111 ALSATION FOR SALE: A dog called Sandy. Very good guard dog and beautiful bet. One and a half year old. Oner going away. Tel 0429351981. Mob 086-8212056 CLASSES, COURSES & LESSONS Beginner Guitar Lessons. Adults and Children catered for. Dunleer / Togher area. Reasonable rates. Weeknights and weekend lessons. Contact Neil on 086-3818196 Beginner guitar lessons only €8 per lesson. Begin a lifelong hobby . Weekdays/Evenings and weekends. Can provide guitar if needed. Call Roy 086-2052108 Line Dancing 8 week new beginners course commencing Wednesday 19th September Lisdoo Arms 8pm Special Course Price €50. Phone 087-8506576 YOGA CLASSES Thursday @ 4pm - 55+ group. Thursday @ 8pm - beginners and improvers. Free trial. 8 Roden Plce, Dundalk. Phone 0857347133. yogawell@gmail.com ANGEL NIGHT: Learn how the angels can help improve your daily life. Relaxation, meditation, relaxation and healing circle. Six week course commencing 4th Oct 7.30 - 9pm. Phone 087-2107116 Happiness Course: Science Based. Free of charge. Visit www.ko-

ruconsulting.eu or call 087-0548787 SPECIAL SERVICES Hughie McElroy Builder: All types of building work carried out. *House Maintenance & Renovations*Extensions, Conservatories & Sunrooms. Painting & Decorating*All PVC products supplied & fitted – we have a complete range of PVC Windows and Doors in various colours*Wall & Floor Tiling* Large & Small jobs*Free estimates. TEL:087 2602501. Gerry’s Upholstery Service: Suites/Antique furniture repaired and re-covered. Better than new. 0860800788 Graphic design For logo’s, branding, advertising, brochures etc. CALL Stephen 087 2052228 for a FREE quotation. House Maintenance All types. Renovations/Extensions/Facia/ Soffet Guttering Garden Fencing and Patios. Estimates free Tel Tom 0863961206 Chimney & Stove Cleaning, Inspection & Repair Tel Paul McArdle 042-9332491 or 0876660094. Email tribalky@yahoo.com Dundalk Bureau de Change – Best rates guaranteed – No commission – We buy and sell all major currencies – Electronic Bank Transfers – sterling and euro cheques – 8 Park St. (open 7 days 8am-11pm) & 4 Linenhall St (open Mon-Sat) – call 042 9339922/9370101 –www. dundalkbureaudechange.com – accepting all major Credit and Debit cards. Dundalk Bureau de Change – Western Union money transfer – pay over 140 different bills – payzone/ postpoint – stamps – pre-paid credit cards – phone top-ups – best rates

guaranteed – no commission - 8 Park St. (open 7 days 8am-11pm) & 4 Linenhall St. (open Mon-Sat) – call 042 9339922/9370101 –www.dundalkbureaudechange.com – accepting all major credit & debit cards PERFECT FIT ALTERATIONS - For all your sewing needs. For your convenience NOW OPEN on Avenue Road. 10% off for Slimming World members. Castletown Road: Tel: 042 9327837. Avenue Road: Tel: 042 9352348 Looking for a unique gift? Create a personalised newspaper page to celebrate a special occasion - birthday, anniversary, birth, sporting success etc. Contact 086 3238328 www.frontpagenews.ie A Van & Driver: available for furniture removal, also single items, 3 piece suites, cookers, fridges, washing machines. Day & night Tel 086 8704908 Fully Qualified Mechanic available for MOT, servicing & Mechanical repairs. Renault specialist Tel Declan 0044 7749488859 Michael’s Property Maintenance: Repairs, building plastering plumbing, painting, tiling, concreting, patios, gardening, PVC facia and soffits, window cleaning. Over 20 yrs experience. References available. Tel 0867350357 Advertise your service to over 60,000 readers for only €5 per week up to 20 words Phone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 We can distribute your leaflets from €65 + vat per thousand Phone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 Chimney Cleaning Service Dust Free. Brush & VAC. Reasonable rates. Call Tommy. 0871869164

Eamonn Cooney Satellite, T.V Aerial, Saorview, Freeview, Freesat etc. Sales/Service/Repairs. Phone 087 2671809 042 9331348 Weddings 2012 Special at Peter Hughes Photography, Professional Wedding Photography, full coverage of wedding and 26 page picture story book album total price €750 phone 042 9333732 mob 087 2561161 CARPENTER AVAILABLE 25 years experience. All interior, exterior, including kitchens, decking, doors, floors, flat-packs etc. No job too small. Keenest prices. Quality finish assured. Call Des for free quotation 087-6180150 Window Cleaning, gutter & facia cleaning carried out by professional, fully trained and insured staff. Affordable rates. Call our office for a free quoatation. EVERKLEEN 0429352717 or 0868293585. Cleanest and Keenest Have your windows, carpet or suite of furniture cleaned at keenest prices . Also guttering, fascia boards, power hosing. Call Damien 0868469559 or 0879319243 Tiler Available All types of tile work, marble, granite, porcelain. Indoors and outdoors. Call 0876563705 for no obligation free quote. Damp proofing, leak detection, solar ventilation, chemical dampproofing, all types of leaks. Specialist equipment. Wall mounted solar panels heat and dry your home. Aqua-solve. 087-2664224 Dundalk Computer Repair Centre We fix p.c.s, laptops, tablets, ipads, iphones and smartphones. No fix, no fee! 9am to 10pm. 7 days a week! Call Gerard 04293-28301 and

085-1286436 Handyman Services: For all your domestic jobs. Painting/Decorating/Flooring/Building/Plastering etc. Phone Brian 0872952529 or 0429384621 Daly’s Gas & Oil Services Boiler services/breakdowns. For all your plumbing needs. RGI Certified. 087-3133681. Outside tap €50 supplied & fitted. R Levins Home Maintenance All types of work carried out about the house. Painting, Wall & Floor tiling, damp solutions, drylining. Outside the home PVC Fascia, soffit, all types of guttering & roof repairs. Flatroofs garden fencing. 15 years experience. Call Richie 086-4028291 Playpals Childcare 43 Dublin Road, Dundalk. Places now available. Drop-in, day care, after school. FETAC Level 5. Contact Maria 0861043570 or Susan 087-7530315 A-GRADEFLOORING.COM All types of wood flooring, fitted, sanded, stained and refinished. Free estimates. Call Paul 086-8049625 SPECIAL EVENT Photography. Christenings, birthdays. anniversaries, after weddings. Photos printed on the spot. Best prices in Ireland. Small call out charge to include first photo free. Tel. David - 0044 7802643477(N.I.) www.denorrtonphotography.co.uk Free Free Free! Quality Furniture taken away free of charge Tel Eamonn 087 1329147. Happiness Course: Science Based. Free of charge. Visit www.koruconsulting.eu or call 087-0548787 Polish Lady: Available to clean houses. Contact 087-2192794

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Appliances

Boiler Services

Bathrooms

Builder

Forklifts

Gardening Blinds

Carpet Cleaning

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Electrical

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Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

Gas

Sliding Wardrobes

Gravel, Patios & Paving

Skips

Waste Collection Tree Surgeon

Sliding Wardrobes

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Windows

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012

CHEVROLET TRAX Details filtering through of the new Chevrolet Trax which should be due here early 2013. The compact SUV has a foot print of 4,248 mm in long by 1,776 mm wide with a wheelbase of 2,555 mm, which is slightly lon-

ger than a Nissan Juke. With the seats up, the boot can carry 358 litres of cargo. There are total of eight seating combinations available, including a 60/40 split rear seat and a front passenger seat which can be folded flat which increases the

maximum load space to 1,370 litres. The Trax engine comprises three engines â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol unit, a 1.6 litre petrol engine and a 1.7 litre turbo-diesel engine. The 1.4L turbo petrol engine is only available as an AWD (4x4)

system and outputs 140 hp, producing a maximum torque of 200 Nm. The AWD system is also available on the 1.7 litre diesel unit. The 1.7 diesel engine (available in manual with either 2WD or AWD all-wheel-drive) will output 130 hp and produce a maximum torque of 300 Nm. Available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission (not available with AWD). CO2 emissions for the 1.7L diesel engine are 120g/km. All powertrains with manual transmission come with Start/Stop functionality. There may be a choice of two trim levels for the Trax, similar to the UK trim levels. The

LS trim level features 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, remote central locking, rear parking sensors, front fog lights and auto headlights together with Bluetooth compatibility. The LT trim level adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear parking camera, lightsensitive rear view mirror and leather steering wheel and gear knob, as well as the Chevrolet Mylink infotainment system as standard. Mylink allows content from smartphones to be viewed on seven-inch colour TFT screen. A dedicated navigation app is available to download onto compatible smartphones displaying the route from the smartphone onto the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s touch-screen.

Dundalk Leader 3rd October 2012