18-04-12

18,000 COPIES WEEKLY Marist students’ fashion show Page 18

Cricket legend visits town Pages 2 & 13

Young ice hockey stars impress Page 7

Wednesday, 18th April, 2012. Vol. 5, Issue 16 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

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

Irish dancers are on top of the world

By Paul Byrne

The future for Irish dancing around Dundalk looks extremely bright after pupils from ‘Scoil Rince Mona Ni Rudaigh’ danced their way to a magnificent 42 medal haul at the World Dancing Championships in Belfast last weekend.

Dearbhla Lennon who is one of four teachers at the renowned Dundalk dancing school described the results as ‘very emotional for both dancers and teachers’ “Even to participate in the World Championships is a huge achievement as you have to qualify from the regional heats to get there and you have to sacrifice a lot if you want to dance amongst the elite”, ” said Dearbhla.

“Every single dancer we

brought to Belfast done themselves proud and having won so many medals I have to say it was very emotional for both dancers and teachers.

“We were particularly delighted to win first prize for the Senior Ceili category as we hadn’t won it since back in 2009 and it’s great to have that title back. It was a very competitive section and we managed to beat off stiff competition from teams in England, Wales, Canada, Boston and further afield. ” she explained.

“We knew we had an excellent team going to Belfast as we had seen all the hard work that they have put in over the last while.

See page 4

Dundalk teen celebrates national success

Cillian Lambe, runner-up in No Name Club Host of the Year final

A Dundalk teenager is celebrating after being named runner-up in the Host of the Year Final at the No Name Club’s National Youth Awards on Saturday night.

Cillian Lambe was one of ten finalists who were honoured by members of the No Name Club from throughout Ireland who gathered in the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny for the final of its Host and Hostess of the Year competition.

The 18-year-old St Marys College student was interviewed on stage by RTE’s Damien Tiernan before he read a poem he composed himself about the recent death of his broth Continued Page 15

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Louth mourns loss of Charlie

Louth GAA is mourning the passing of one of its true greats following the death of Charlie McAlester on Tuesday morning.

Charlie, who served as kitman with Louth for 39 years, will be sorely missed by Gaels right across the country.

The Newtown Blues clubman was originally from Dundalk but spent much of his life in Drogheda.

Charlie was immensely proud of the McAlester family’s association with GAA in Louth from the formative years of the organisation.

He also served as kitman with the Irish International Rules team but his greatest pride came in helping his beloved Wee County. His recent illness meant that Charlie had to retire as kitman but he was still a regular at games. He was present in Navan last week to see Louth play Dublin in the Leinster U-21 Final and again to see Louth defeat Meath in the National League.

Charlie’s enthusiasm for his county was infectious and he only had admiration, and never criticism, for those who wore the red jersey.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Road downgrade puts end to funding hopes

By Paul Byrne

The NRA’s decision to delist a section of the N52 from a national primary route to a local route has angered a Louth County Councillor who claimed their decision would have ‘serious implications’ for local authorities.

Cllr Declan Breath-nach condemned the NRA for their decision to delist the section of road between Ardee Road and the Racecourse Road in Dundalk without prior consultation with elected representatives.

“The NRA have come to this decision without any public consultation whatsoever. Delisting the N52 to a local route will have serious implications for local authorities.” he explained.

“We already are at advanced stages with regards to road improvement schemes for the N52 including paying out for the costs involved in drawings and mapping.

We had a €4.5 million scheme mapped out to sort out the dangerous bends at Soraghan’s Pub and a €1.5 million scheme to

upgrade the area around Maplestown Bridge in Ardee.” he added.

“This is typical of the NRA in how they deal with economic decisions.

They decide these things without thinking of the implications. That section of road between Ardee and the Racecourse Road in Dundalk was always a route that needed upgrading but this move by the NRA has cut off any potential schemes.

Meanwhile Sean O’Neill from the NRA has claimed that the reasons for delisting the section

of road between Ardee and the Racecourse Road, was primarily to do with safety.

“The N33/M1 route is already a main corridor between Ardee and Dundalk and is of a far higher standard than the N52. This is primarily to do with safety as it is well known that there are some terrible bends on the N52 stetch of road between Ardee and Dundalk.” He explained.

Responding to Cllr Breathnach’s suggestions that the move was primarily to do with saving

Cricket star makes visit to town

es for this season take place on Saturday May 5 against Adamstown, the second fixture against Wexford takes place on May 12.]

The club are always looking to recruit new members and there is no better time than now to join in, please contact the secretary Derek Turner Derek@spiritstore.ie

By Niamh Kirk

Record breaking Irish cricketing international Kevin O’Brien visited Dundalk on Saturday to give his expert advice and coaching ahead of the start of the cricket season. Kevin recently helped Ireland to success in the World Cup qualifying tournament in Dubai.

Kevin O’Brien is fondly remembered for his sensational efforts in the World Cup match against England in 2011. He broke the world record for fastest century in the World cup and was pivitol in the deafest of the English.

Kevin began his day coaching the younger members of Dundalk Cricket Club. The Junior squad were treated to some of Kevin’s trade secrets and the club hope that the fruits of their labour on the day will be seen in the coming season.

The afternoon session

Marianne Butler (Chairperson, Dundalk Town Council) presents a couple of gifts to Kevin O’Brien

was an intense and highenergy affair as the senior team were put through their paces.

The club has an impressive reputation and a lot to live up to following the unprecedented success last year when Dundalk Cricket Club picked up a few records of their own.

In the 2011 season the club was the only club in

Leinster to end the season undefeated and are hoping to build on the success.

Marianne Butler, Dundalk Town Council Chair, visited the training session and presented him with gifts to thank Kevin for his contribution to Dundalk’s Cricket Club Dundalk Cricket club have two teams in this year’s Leinster League.

The first home match-

fiti Awareness Scheme.

It will be then up to the local authorities to select projects that will raise awareness of litter and graffiti problems. In Louth it will go specifically to the maintence of the area to make it more appealing to tourists as it is being granted under the Tourist Season AntiLitter Grant.

The aim is that it will help with the mainte-

nance of visitor locations at beaches, and scenic areas.

There was confirmation that the funds would not be used to remove any of the street art in Dundalk and will target only unsightly graffiti.

Respo nding to the grant FG TD Peter Fitzpatrick said; “We all have a role to play in the upkeep of our own communities.

Local authorities, community and voluntary groups all do excellent work to maintain the appearance of streets, roads and scenic areas; this funding from Minister Hogan will help to support them in this work.”

Funds to clean up Louth

By Niamh Kirk

Louth County is to benefit from a spruceup as it has been allocated €24,000 in grants to help tackle litter and graffiti.

The funding came as a part of €2million in grants to the Local authority’s b y Minister Phil Hogan and has been allocated to Louth under the Anti Litter and Anti Graf-

money Mr O’Neill said “In today’s environment you have to look at how much money you have and you have to be realistic as

to what you can spend.

It’s pointless recommending upgrades if the money isn’t there” he added.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

New speed limits for town centre News

By Paul Byrne

A new speed limit which is being introduced for the centre of Dundalk will come into effect from the 21st May. The 30kman-hour limit will apply to the immediate area around the Market Square.

The reduction of the current 50km/h limit will be enforced only in the immediate town centre and is designed to make the streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The central core of the area will be the Market Square, but will also include sections of Clanbrassil St. (south of junction with Wrightson’s Lane), Long Walk (to back of Post Office) and Crowe St (to Roden Place), together with small sections of Bachelor’s Walk, Market St and Magnet Road.

According to town engineer Catherine Duff the reduced speed limits will ensure greater safety for both pedestrians and cyclists.

“With the advent of the new

Market Square in the heart of the town centre which encourages the greater use of the public realm for pedestrians and the increasing numbers of cyclists evident on our streets, we have introduced a special speed limit in the town centre core.

The chairperson of Dundalk Town Council, Marianne Butler, says it’s aimed at improving safety for pedestrians, and is reflecting the new slower speed of traffic after the revamp of the Square.

Local dancers are on top of the world

From page 1 “Eoin Murphy and Olivia Murray from Dundalk both did brilliantly in their solo sections with both picking up bronze mewdals. It really was a great week for us all.”

Scoil Rince Mona Ni Rudaigh celebrated their 40th anniversary last year with world famous dance teacher Mona Ni Rodaigh-Uí Lionainn still at the helm ably assisted by Maria McCaul-Mohan, along with her daughters Dearbhla and Ciara Lennon.

This latest success for the school shows that the future of Irish dancing in Dundalk is bright and according to Dear-

in Brief Car Boot Sale

The annual Car Boot Sale and Coffee Morning will be held at The Presbyterian Church, Jocelyn St, Dundalk on May 7 from 11am to 3pm. Cars cost €15 and vans €20.

This includes the cost of refreshments for two people. Gates close for vehicles at 10.30am. Entrance for pedestrians is €1, children free. There will be toy, cake and brica-brac stalls in the Church hall with tea and coffee served with homemade scones, cakes, soup etc.

Phone 0872396776.

Night at the Dogs

Back row l-r Mona Ni Roadaigh, Ciara Lennon, Aidan Mc Loughlin, Eoghan Murphy Cal Moran, Darren Byrne, Maria Mc Caul-Mohan, Dearbhla Lennon, front row l-r Sinéad Nolan, Jade O’Kane, Shauna Hodson, Muriel Burke

bhla should encourage other children to put on their dancing shoes.

“I think the youngest pupil we had competing was six and there were

nine year olds competing in the u13 category and doing really well so it’s definitely very encouraging for the future of the school that we

have so many wonderful young dancers coming through.” enthused Dearbhla.

The Muscular Dystrophy Dundalk & District Branch are running a ‘Night at the Dogs’ at Dundalk Stadium on Saturday April 28. To support the cause you can purchase tickets for just €10 or €40 to include a four course meal and live band ‘Full Shilling’ after greyhound racing.

Call Craig 087 298 7769 or Thomas 087 2793546 for tickets. There will be a signed Manchester United & a signed Celtic jersey up for auction on the night.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Threatened teen with lit cigarette A 22-year-old man who forced a 16-year-old to hand over his phone by threatening him with a lit cigarette, was sentenced to ten months jail.

It was one of a series of offences for which John Finnegan with a former address at 59, Oldbridge, Toberona received jail terms at Dundalk Court.

Inspector Martin Beggy related that the incident took place at the forecourt of the Marshes Shopping Centre on October 23, 2010.

The accused ran after the 16-year–old who became separated from the company he was with and was cornered by the accused who threatened to use the lit cigarette

unless he handed over his phone.

The phone was recovered with the help of an ambulance crew that was called to the scene to deal with an injured person.

The case dated back some time and had been adjourned a number of times previously to see how the defendant was progressing.

His solicitor said the case became complicated by the defendant not attending court. He was a man who didn’t enjoy good health, and removed himself from the area, Mr. Connor McGuill said.

He said at the time of the phone robbery Finnegan was “not in a good place”. He was very much in need of treatment which he sub-

sequently got. He hadn’t come to attention since. He engaged with treatment that was proscribed and was making arrangements to continue with it.

The case was before the court the previous week when it was put back for the accused to pay €50 compensation in respect of another matter.

It was stated there were also two charges in respect of assaults dating back to December 2007 which previously had been outlined to the court.

Judge Brennan imposed concurrent two months sentences in respect of each of these.

He fixed bail of €500 for the accused to appeal.

DkIT to host science festival

Dundalk Institute of Technology is hosting SciFest, a festival of science for secondary students again this May. The aim of the festival is to generate an appreciation and enthusiasm for science through project based learning. The love of science and its practical applications is fostered through work that is active and collaborative. It also give students the opportunity to present, display and get feedback on their investigations.

A group of St Vincent’s Students were the overall winners of the Discover Space Award.

LGBT recruitment drive News A helpline for lesbian gay bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people are launching a major recruitment drive over the next three months as they search for volunteers to help improve their service.

Bernardine Quinn who is project co-ordinator of the Dundalk Outcomers group and chair of the LGBT helpline has called on volunteers around the area to help out the service which provides confidential support to LGBT people, their families and friends and those questioning if they are LGBT. “We used to have

seven regional local helplines but we have now amalgamated all of those and we have one number which covers the whole country.

“We cover 7pm to 9pm in the evening on Monday to Friday as well as between 4pm and 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.” she explained.

“Basically we are looking for volunteers to help us as we are missing too many calls.

“We dealt with 2,500 calls last year but we could have answered 10,000 if we had more volunteers.” she added.

“We will be recruiting

for the next three months and all volunteers will be trained to a national standardised policy of training.

“Locally we would hope to get about fifteen volunteers applying and out of that fifteen we’d like to get at least eight or nine to join us”, she added.

Anybody who is interested in volunteering for the LGBT helpline should contact info@lgbt. ie/ or call the LGBT helpline on 1890929539 The LGBT helpline is funded through the community for Ireland initiative.

Football club hosting are novelty fundraising auction Na Piarsaigh GFC is going to hold a Novelty Auction on Friday April 27 in the Stonehouse .

Not only will this be an amazing night which will hopefully raise money for the club, it will also give people a chance to get their hands on some once

in a life time lots.

For example does anyone fancy tickets to see Man Utd at home before the end of the season?

While we have a number of lots at this level there are also a lot bargains to be picked up.

But you will only find

out on the night.

There will be a €10 door charge which will get you a programme and a bidding paddle.

Come out and have a laugh, and you never know what you might go home with.

in Brief

Bee-keeping Lecture

County Louth Beekeepers Association are holding a lecture on beekeeping on Wednesday April 18.

The lecture will be given

by Michael Mac Giolla Coda, entitled, “Colony Evaluation & Recording”, in Teagasc Centre, Dublin Road, Dundalk from 8pm to 10pm. Admission is free and bring a friend.

Niall Mellon Fundraising

Rosaleen Butterly is calling for support as she continues her fundraising for the Niall Mellon Township.

She has recently created a fundraising page on www.mycharity.ie.

Rosaleen will be funding her own travel and accommodation expenses and those who wish to make a secure and acknowledged donation by credit or credit can visit www.mycharity.ie/event/ rosaleen_butterlys_boston_challenge.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Local lads taking Belfast ice hockey by storm Two local boys Jordan Donnelly and Sean Coleman, who play with Junior Belfast Giants under 16s team are both making an impact on the world of ice hockey.

Their team played their first competitive game on St. Patricks Day in Odyssey Arena, against Sheffield Steelers Greyhounds.

Both Jordan and Sean, who were named assistant captains, stamped their mark on the game, with Sean scoring and Jordan assisting some of the goals. The final score was Junior Belfast Giants 6, Sheffield Greyhounds 4. Sean was named man of the match.

The following week, the team, along with some under 18s, travelled to Scotland to play Kilmarnock under 16/18s team.

JBG u16s team attached, who beat Sheffield Greyhounds on 17th March. Jordan Donnelly is back row, 3rd from left, and Sean Coleman is back row, 5th from left.

Unfortunately the score wasn’t the same good news, with the Junior Giants losing 9-2. Sean was named man of the match.

Jordan and Sean were selected last year, to represent Irish Ice Hockey Association, to travel to

Vierumäki, in Finland.

They were both complimented greatly during this time, on their skating and skill abilities, especially with the absence of a rink in Ireland.

Both lads play other sports, but continue with

ice hockey, travelling to Belfast a few times every week since Dundalk Ice Dome closed in.

However, this sacrifice has paid off and both have very promising futures in this sport, in Belfast or abroad.

Road closures in Seatown area Louth County Council has warned of disruption to traffic as temporary closures of Jocelyn Street, Seatown Place and sections of Castle Road go ahead form the end of the month.

The closures are expcted to last about one week and will re-

sult in alternative routes A full road closure will be in effect from the staggered crossroad at Seatown-Castle Road to the Castle Road-Jocelyn Street T-junction. Jocelyn Street will be subject to a lance closure.

The roads being used as al-

ternative routes include Quay Street, and Mill Street.

Traffic wishing to access Jocelyn Street from Castle Road will be diverted from Castle Road to Seatown down to the Market Street area and then to Defenders Row.

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Pete Treanor’s

Weekly Quiz

Movies Who, in a series of films marries Princess Fiona?

Irish History Who was nicknamed The Liberator?

Toys and Games The Teddy Bear was named after which President of the United States?

Proverbs What is the mother of invention?

Geography What is the largest castle in England?

Local In what year were both RQ O’Neill’s shop in Earl St, and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Louth Village, destroyed by fire?

Sport What is the name of the Australian dart thrower, Simon

Whitlock?

Religion Who as the first Christian martyr?

The Human Body How many bones are there in the human hand?

Literature What is the name of the O’Hara family mansion in ‘Gone With the Wind’?

Stinker What had 1916 leader, Joseph Plunkett, Taoiseach Jack Lynch and Gay Byrne all got in common?

—this week’s answers—

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Annual Michael Morgan Table Quiz Holy Thursday in the St Joseph’s GFC clubrooms in Dromiskin is by now synonymous with the annual Michael Morgan Table Quiz.

This year saw the sixth renewal of the quiz that remembers a former player of the club who died in 2006, and raises funds towards player injury costs.

The prestigious quiz attracts teams from inside and outside the club and this year there were 24 teams competing and an amount of €1,300 was raised on the night.

One of the great attractions of the quiz is the excellent prizes that Denise and the Morgan family sponsor each year, this year was no different with the prizes being four beautiful Killarney Crystal Vases.

In another keenly contested event

News

in Brief

Jim Craven Remembered The Bard of Balregan - Jim Craven’s annual commemoration will be celebrated in poetry and song in Brid-A-Crinn on Sunday April 22, after Mass at 10.30am.

From left: Brendan Morgan, Eamonn Gallagher, David Duffy, Paul Weir, Sarah Gallagher, Aidan Gorham (chairman), Denise Morgan.

“The Hairy Fairies” captained by Mick Challoner, (who captained last year’s winning team) led at the half way mark and were still in front going into the final round.

But the late points from Eamonn Gallagher’s “Magpies” saw them swoop in and steal the win from Kevin Kerr’s Pinks and Castlebellingham’s Unusual Suspects.

A great night was had by all and the club would like to congratulate the winners and sincerely thank the sponsors and all who participated.

This, the 32nd anniversary of the poet’s death, will see familiar and new faces act out extracts of his work in the open air by his graveside. All are welcome.

Man went completely off the rails

A 20-year-old man who last year “completely went off the rails taking all the drugs and alcohol he could get except injecting himself with heroin” was sentenced to 11 months jail.

Judge Flann Brennan imposing concurrent terms of 11 months in respect of three different assaults on Roman Michailov of 4, Saint Nicholas Street said the defendant was fortunate he was dealing with the offences in the district court.

He would have faced a far longer sentence had he refused to deal with the case.

He sentenced him to concurrent sentences of one month in

respect of damaging a mattress in a cell at the Garda Station on February 25 and being drunk and failing to comply with the direction of a Garda. He took other matters to which the defendant pleaded guilty into consideration One of the assault victims was a member of the Garda Regional support unit who underwent surgery for a shoulder injury and was off duty for 140 days before returning to light duties.

Dundalk Court heard that the assaults took place in a short span of time early on August 13 last.

One of the victims was walking home at Park Street when he was approached for a cigarette

by Michailov who hit him on the side of the face. The defendant was identified from CCTV footage.

After that another male was seriously injured at Clanbrassil Street. He was found lying on the road by Gardai and appeared to be unconscious. Again Michailov was identified as the culprit from CCTV footage. The injured party suffered concussion and dizzy spells for some time afterwards.

Inspector Martin Beggy said while looking for the culprit a

number of Gardai attended at Bridge Street where Michailov was stopped. He attempted to flee and assaulted the member of the regional support unit.

Other Gardai apprehended the defendant.

Inspector Beggy said the injured Garda was expected to make a full recovery.

The Inspector also outlined other offences committed by the defendant, including being found in possession of a flick knife when searched after refusing to move and to give personal details to Gardai at Greenacres on August 4 last.

He also committed public

order offences at the Old Shopping Centre on December 31 last where he was very intoxicated and abused staff.

He was found intoxicated at Oaklawns on January 28 and refused to give his name and address.

He also was arrested for further public order offences when Gardai came across him drinking from a cider bottle on November 9th last.

Solicitor Sean O’Reilly explained that the defendant was in the country six years. He stayed out of trouble for a long time and then went completely off the rails.

1. Shrek 2. Daniel O’Connell 3. Theodore Roosevelt 4. Necessity 5. Windsor Castle 6. 2003 7.

The Wizard 8. St Stephen 9. 27 10. Tara. Stinker – They all had the middle name, Mary.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Samantha uses her talents to help orphans

By Paul Byrne

A business student in O Fiaich college has decided to put her talents to good use by organising a fashion show in the Fairways on April 28 to help rebuild an orphanage which was destroyed in Thailand during flooding last summer.

Samantha Maguire decided to help the flooded Thailand orphanages after coming across a website called “I to I” which organise volunteer trips for people to help various needy projects abroad.

“I was just looking around the internet one afternoon when I came across this website showed images of the

Samantha Maguire

terrible scenes of flooded orphanages in Thailand.

I was in foster care myself as a child so it struck a chord with me and I decided that I wanted to help them out in whatever way I could” explained Samantha.

Fashion outlets from all around town have already agreed to take part in the fashion extravaganza and Samantha is hopeful that more businesses will get on board to help support the show.

“We’ve had great sup-

port so far and I’d like to thank the Fairways Hotel for all their support to date. Hopefully more businesses around town will get involved and set up a stall on the evening and we can raise money to rebuild these orphanages in Thailand.”

“I’m hoping to raise €5000 and the plan is to travel to Thailand on June 8 where I will help rebuild the orphanages for four weeks”, he added.

Tickets for the event are €15 each and can be purchased from the Fairways or directly through Samantha by ringing 086337371. Any business interested in setting up a stall at the event should also contact Samantha.

Plans for Blackrock raft race The 2012 Blackrock Raft Race takes place on Sunday June 24, with a much enhanced programme of events.

This year Blackrock Tidy Towns will be building all the rafts themselves to a common design so that there will be no

more disputes about what constitutes a raft.

All you have to do is form a four-person team (your local pub, work, sports organisation or whatever) and enter - no more construction work required. Remember the competition is open

to any location.

Entry fee is €100 per team and all proceeds go to Blackrock Tidy Towns to help make the village even more beautiful. Email blackrocktt@gmail.com or phone Brendan on 042 9321098 to enter a team.

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News

in Brief Plant Sale

Flowers, shrubs etc in The Wellington Hall, St. Mary’s Road, Dundalk, on Saturday May 5 at 2pm.

Proceeds in aid of St. Nicholas’ Parish Church.

Call 042-933 7023 for more information.

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you

Phone: 0429320888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com

Over to you What did you get up to on your mid-term break?

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Kirsty Hoey

Megan O’Hare

I have exams coming up so I studied hard during the first week but for the second week I just lay in bed for most of the day.

I studied a bit for the first week and met up with friends around town during the second week.

Femi Bankole

Louise Thompson

Niamh Watters

I have exams coming up soon so I spent a lot of the time studying. I’m actually looking forward to going back because you kinda get bored after a while.

I just relaxed for the two weeks. It was great not having to get up for school in the mornings. I’m not looking forward to going back.

When I wasn’t in my bed I met up with friends and just hung about in town. I’d love another week off.

County Council scrapes a ‘pass’ in An Taisce planning report

By Niamh Kirk

Louth County Council’s planning system is scraping a pass with a ‘D’ grade from planning watchdog, An Taisce. The grade was released as part of the State of the Nation review of the planning system this week.

It is the first time individual county councils have been graded on their performance. Taisce looked to eight ranking indicators including, the number of vacant houses, the percentage of zoned land by percentage of population, the amount of decisions made by local planners that were reversed by an Bord Pleanala, the amount of

one-off houses that were permitted to be built and the number of legal proceedings resulting in Council non-compliance.

Louth was ranked 16th in the country with a grade of 45% and was given a passable ‘D’ grade.

Louth County was the fourth worst ranked when it came to over-zoning land as development with a score of 29.

An Tasice say that much of the land zoned by councils would never have been built on, could never have been built upon but it did not ‘deter councils from abandoning their fiduciary responsibilities and acting wholly contrary to na-

tional planning strategy.’

Council members are responsible for the zoning of land on advice from the planning department.

The next zoning decision planned in Louth is that of Greenore from Zone 3 to 5.

The report highlighted two cases in Co Louth where significant development proposals affecting a designated conversation that were successfully appealed by An Tasice. Planning for a 122 bed hotel in Omeath had to be over turned as did an 18 suite ‘Eco Spa’ initially given the go ahead in Whitestown Greenore.

An Taisce found a link between councils’ low

scores and negative socio economic and environmental outcomes and criticised the ‘groupthink’ that saw those who opposed planning developments treated s standing in the way of progress.

In the opening paragraphs of the 41 page report that grades the work of council councils stated that during the years of the Celtic Tiger there was a ‘catastrophic and systematic failure of the planning system’.

The main reasons offered for this failure were the lack of transparency, the marganalisation of people who drew attention to planning failures and, corruption.

The purpose of the re-

port was to assess planning, stimulate debate, inform in the public interest and facilitate communication with local planning authorities.

An Taisce say that during the boom years, although few councils listened, they repeatedly warned against over zoning, development on flood-plains and urban sprawl that was reliant on private cars for transport.

They have encouraged councils to put greater emphasis on forward looking evidence based planning. Further analysis of the report will feature next week.

Louth County Council representatives were unavailable for comment.

Ardee Celtic at Manchester City Academy

News

in Brief Cancer Support

Dundalk based Ovelle Pharmaceuticals, the makers of Elave skincare have teamed up with the Irish Cancer Society to support their Survivorship Programme which provides practical and emotional one-to-one support for those newly diagnosed with cancer by people who have undergone cancer treatment themselves.

From April to the end of May, Elave will donate €1 from every Elave Shower Gel 250ml, Shampoo 250ml and Intensive Cream 125g sold to the Survivorship Programme.

Volunteer Week To Celebrate the National Volunteering Week, The Louth Volunteer Centre is hosting a Volunteering Fair Day on Tuesday, May 15 at Dundalk Library, Roden Place from 11am to 7pm.

If you are a community organisation who involves volunteers and would like to meet potential volunteers, we welcome you to contact us to book a free stand at this event.

Contact Louth Volunteer Centre – 0419806900 with any queries and to book your place.

Separated Parents The next Tuesday meetings of Parents Separated Support Group will take place on April 17.

The Ardee Celtic squad in Manchester

Ardee Celtic U14, U15, & U16 players enjoyed a trip of a lifetime over the Easter Holidays when they went to Manchester on tour.

In total, a panel of 27 players and six mentors embarked on the four day trip which incorporated a series of four friendly matches, a trip to the Reebok Stadium to

see the Bolton play Fulham in a Premiership match, a training session with Manchester City coaches, a talk with motivation coach Simon Cooper (author of “Football for Life”), and a trip to the Trafford Centre.

A big thanks goes out to Carol & Robert McQuillan who organised the trip and also to

coaches and mentors Pat Ward, Paddy Griffin, Trevor Martin, and Denis McCourt. Also to Jeff the dedicated bus driver for the entire trip.

Ardee Celtic Panel: Gary Aylward, Barry Kirk, Josh Bishun, Ben O’Brien, Aaron Keeley, Andrew Cullen, Ryan Collins, Glen Matthews, Mark Lenehan,

Tommy Molloy, James Carraher, Alan Carraher, Aaron O’Brien, Ryan Ward, James Conlon, Daire McConnon, Oisin McAleenan, Ross McQuillan, Ryan Rooney, BJ Matthews, Killian Byrne, Eolann Aiken, Brendan Matthews, Aidan-Lee Martin, Sean Clarke, Jason McKeown, David Anderson

Those wishing on attending the meetings should confirm their intentions with Val on 085 7303609.

Meetings are every second Tuesday, Cost €5 to include refreshments on arrival. From 7:30 to 9pm at Social Services Building, 15a Clanbrassil Street.

Vodafone called to explain jobs transfer Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

By Niamh Kirk

The CEO of Vodafone has been requested to appear before an Oireachtas Committee to explain why the company is transferring over 270 jobs to Newry.

The Dublin North East Fine Gael TD Terence Flanagan wrote to the Chair and members of the Communications Committee requesting that they invite the CEO, Jeroen Hoencamp, to appear before them to offer an idea of the company’s plans in Ireland or the future.

Last May Vodafone

outsourced 140 call centre jobs to Egypt and India followed by a recent announcement that 300 jobs would go to Teleperformance in Newry.

The decision has been described by the Communication Workers’ Union Deputy General Secretary, Terry Delaney, as ‘exporting jobs in the blind pursuit of an increased bottom line’.

The Dublin TD expressed his concern about the impact on local economies in Dublin and Dundalk noting that “It is clear that most workers who are currently based in Dublin and Dundalk

Vodafone Ireland also will not be a position to continues to enjoy one of relocate to Newry.”

Highlighting all the the lowest corporation tax benefits Ireland affords rates on company profits to the communications giant he commented “Vodafone is Ireland’s leading communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. On September 30, 2011, Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.22 million. The company continues to benefit from a profitable market in Ireland and has repatriated €2.2 billion in profits on its Irish operations to its parent group over the past decade.

Easter festivities

Scoil Naomh Lorcan Omeath marked the recent Easter festivities which included an Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Bunny crafts.

Pupils, teachers and parents alike had great fun searching for the Easter Bunny’s chicks which he had carefully hidden all over the school.

available anywhere in action?”.

The TD added that he the world, so the question has to be asked as to why feared the move sets a it is taking this course of very bad example and

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dangerous precedent for He has written to the the future of call centres CEO personally but has and customer service yet to receive a reply. centres in the Republic.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

News

Cricket star visits Dundalk

in Brief It’s A Knockout

Calling all clubs, teams, businesses, societies and groups of friends.

Anyone who is still interested in taking part in the Its A Knockout fund raising event is asked to contact a member of the organising committee this week. Only a limited Pat Kavanagh (President, Dundalk Cricket Club), Liam Gaynor (Youth number of places avail- Development), Derek Turner (Secretary) and Eddie Bosano-Andrews (Public Relations Officer) able.

rtin Louise Glynn and Odin Glynn-Ma

Kevin O’Brien with Conan Martin and Odin Glynn Martin

This is a great way to raise much needed funds for The Irish Cancer Society, Down Syndrome Ireland and Suicide Awareness.

Teams of 10 players costs €250, payable before the event. For more information or to enter a team please contact Caitlin 0879489174 or Mattie 0879917373 or Ciaran Gerry Murphy (Vice Chairman) and Brian Morris (Treasurer) 0874105773

and Jiwan Jodhani, Patrick Collins

Sunil Kumar

Marianne Butler (Chairperson, Dundalk TC) presents a couple of gifts to Kevin O’Brien

Got a Story?

We want to hear from you Phone: 0429320888 Email: editorial @dundalkleader.com

Eddie Bosano-Andrews and Aine Mc Adam

Liam Gallagher, Justin John, Raj Dhuoon, Boomeeswaran Shanmugam, Jiwan Jodhani, coaches Patrick Collins and Kevin O’Brien, Pat Kavanagh, Phil Osborn, Ranjeet Kumar, Stephen Lines, Sunil Kumar and Conan Martin

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

News

in Brief Pilgrimage

A lcoal woman, Vera Kelleher, who is travelling to America in the summer to honour a relative - Fr Solanus Casey - who is destined to be declared a saint, is welcoming all to take part in the trip.

Those interested in the June trip can contact Vera at 087 7724967.

The Corrs album outsells U2

By Niamh Kirk

Dundalk superstar siblings The Corrs have sold more albums in the UK then legendary rockers U2. The bands 1997 album ‘Talk on Corners’ last week was placed as the 25th highest selling album ever in the UK while U2’s Joshua Tree came in at 34.

The Corrs’ popularity was underlined in a recent poll

W piątek, 30 marca 2012 spotkaliśmy się w Shamrock Bar po raz 14-ty.

Polski Wieczór Klubowy odbył się natomiast po raz 15ty.

Frekwencja nam zdecydowanie słabnie.

Być może z powodu Wielkiego Postu, być może dlatego, że nie każdemu odpowiada ten Pub czy też muzyka, którą przygotowujemy na polskie wieczory. Część Polaków mieszkających w Dundalk w ogóle nie ma ochoty na integrację między sobą, szczególnie publiczną.

Myślę jednak, że warto ciągnąć ten projket. Dla kilku nowych twarzy, które pojawiają się podczas wieczoru, każdego miesiąca. Tym razem bowiem dołączyły do nas: Agnieszka, Dorota i Karolina.

Dla sympatycznej, wesołej atmosfery. Wspólnej zabawy.

Dla garstki ludzi, która chce się wyrwać, wyjść do ludzi i wśród rodaków miło spędzić czas, poznać nowych ludzi, napić się piwka z sokiem malinowym, jak w domu.

Posłuchać starych kawałków kojarzonych z Polską.

Pograć w gry, znane z polskiej tv. W ubiegły piątek „stawialiśmy na milion”.

Dowiedzieć się czegoś nowego. Kreatywnie spędzić piątkowy wieczór.

Dziękujemy wszystkim za przyjście, wsparcie naszego pomysłu i fantastyczną wspólną zabawę oraz przemiło spędzony czas i HUMOR, bo śmiechu w szarej rzeczywistości brakuje mi najbardziej.

Dziękuję za pozytywną energię i luz, za cudny, sympatyczny, kameralny ale i udany wieczór.

Wielkie dzięki dla Klaudi i Asifa oraz Eugeniusza za Waszą przyjaźń, wsparcie i dystans, a największe ukłony dla najwierniejszej nam i naszym wieczorom EWY! Tomku, a Ciebie zabrakło??? A ja trzymałam dla Ciebie miejsce do samego końcaKolejny Polski Wieczór Klubowy już w ostatni piątęk kwietnia, 27.04.2012. Tym razem rock, lata 80te, stylizacja jak najbradziej wskazana.

Pozdrawiam – Agnieszka Boniewicz Na naszej stronie www.dundalk.pl znajdziecie więcej bieżących informacji. Zdjęcia z pobytu Młodego Torunia są w trakcie obróbki i trafią najszybciej jak się da.

Jeszcze raz wielkie podziękowania dla Rodzin, które nas wsparły zakwaterowaniem młodzieży oraz wszystkich wolentariuszy.

Najważniejszy projekt teraz, o stworzenie Klubu Młodych Mam, wszystkie Młode Mamy, które mają ochote spotkać się z innymi mamami, powymieniać się doświadczeniami i wesprzeć się nawzajem proszę o email z imieniem, nr telefonu na adres simulpolonia@gmail.com w temacie prosze napisac klub MM

‘We Cut Corners’ was The Corrs second album and the bands toured heavily following its release. It marked the biggest growth period in the group’s career, so much so it was three years before the band made it back into the studio.

The album’s success was an interesting phenomenon as none of the first three singles ‘Only When I Sleep’, ‘I Never Loved You Anyway’ and

‘What Can I Do?’ made it into the top 40 singles chart. It was not until the band performed the Fleetwood Mac classic ‘Dreams’ live at the BBC at Albert Hall in St Patricks Day did the album in 1998 that the truly gained momentum, as it was reissued with ‘Dreams’ added and a few songs reworked..

‘What Can I Do’, ‘Runaway’ (which appeared on their first album) and ‘So

Young’ were reshaped and in their new format landed the band a series of top ten hits.

Talk on Corners was the highest selling album of 1998 and maintained much of its momentum in 1999 when it was the ninth highest seller. To date it has sold over 3 million albums in the UK. Queen’s 1981 Greatest Hits album took the No 1 spot.

Almost 300 athletes took part in the Mountpleasant AC Easter Monday Road Races, with over 160 senior athletes running in the 5k Race, and over 100 juvenile athlete involved in various categories.

Mountpleasant athletes on the day included

Francis Kirk, Grace Kirk, Micheal Marmion (2nd Boys U8), Dearbhla McGahon (4th Girls U8), Sean Leonard, Eimear Traynor, Claire Traynor, Cora Roe, Tara O’Hagan, Anna McArdle (1st Girls U10), Erin Gray, Lucy Murphy, Ultan O’Hagan,

James McArdle (3rd Boys U 12), Brendan Murphy, Grace Murphy (5th Girls U14) Representatives of the late Sean Craven presented a trophy in his memory, to the overall winners, North East Runners.

Easter Monday road race

Teen celebrates national success From Page 1 er’s dog, who was in their family for 14 years.

The finalists were all also recently interviewed at length by the National Youth Awards adjudicating panel and its chairman, Michael Browne, told the audience last Saturday night that “the

competition was very close and the standards extremely high”.

“The calibre of these finalists representing the calibre of young people in this room and in No Name Clubs throughout Ireland is astonishing,” said No Name Club CEO John Donovan, who re-

vealed the winners to an excited audience.

To honour his achievement in reaching the national final, Cillian was presented with a beautiful trophy from the 2009 Hostess of the Year Dale O’Sullivan, a member of St Joseph’s No Name Club in Cork.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Trampz set for Harrisons Local purveyors of funk groove soul The Trampz play Harrisons for the very first time this Friday night.

This will be the band’s last headline night before they take to the main stage at this year’s Vantastival. Well known for their fun loving attitude and huge band sound, the guys live shows are without doubt the most popular night when ever or where ever they play. Don’t miss them if you get the chance, there’s plenty of

other brilliant acts also on the bill.

Derry 3 piece Intermission are also confirmed for the night, the indie rockers are no strangers to Blackrock and have gained a huge following in the area having played the venue three times in recent years.

Mighty Tempest will also be show casing a few new tracks while up and coming local singer songwriter Dave Keenan will open the show at 9pm sharp. Doors are at 8 and door tax is 8 euro.

Strictly Come Dancing with a twist A great night of Irish Dance (with a twist) is coming soon to the Fairways Hotel, and with the promise of amazing interval acts, this is sure to be one of the nights of 2012.

The 15 volunteer dancers enjoyed a great evening held in the Joes’s Clubrooms, Dromiskin, on March 23, where they met their Professional Dance Partner for the first time.

All dancers were delighted with their pairing and have been busy ever since working on their individual dances and group dance for the evening.

Competition is building between all dancers and can only guarantee a great nights entertainment for all who attend. Doors open

Paddy and Niamh will be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing at 7pm, show starts 8pm, and if your quick you can May, 12 in the Fairways get them through Michelle Hotel. Tickets are €20, Rodgers 087-6487528.

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Dundalk Musical Society present Broadway and Beyond Preparations are well under way for Dundalk Musical Society’s forthcoming production “Broadway and Beyond”.

This exciting new production which features songs and scenes from some of Broadway’s best

known and loved shows, will take place in An Tain Theatre at Dundalk Town Hall on Friday April 27 and Saturday 28 at 8pm nightly.

With a cast of over 60 children and adults who have been busy rehearsing

and perfecting their routines for the last two months this is a show which promises to entertain both the young and the young at heart.

This talented company will bring patrons on a musical journey through the different ages of Broadway. Featuring fully costumed excerpts from hit shows such as Mamma Mia, Wicked, Hairspray, Chicago, Little Shop of Horrors and Blood Brothers.

While the children will perform classics like Bugsy Malone, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Mary Poppins. A nostalgic nod to the great Western and London musicals will see the society perform classic songs from Oklahoma, Calamity Jane, Oliver and My Fair Lady.

Direction and Choreography is in the capable hands of Robert Murphy and Sarah Carpenter the dynamic duo who transformed this year’s pantomime, Cinderella, which people are still raving about.

Whilst musical direction is under the baton of Geraldine Casey as Chorus Mistress and Mary McCague as Musical Director.

Early booking is advised as this show is sure to be a sellout, tickets are very keenly priced at just €12 available from An Tain Box Office on 042 9392919.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Marist students’ fashion show Family Notices Kind hearted students from St Mary’s secondary college have organised a charity fashion show in the Fairways on Friday night with all proceeds going to the St Vincent De Paul.

Conor Durnin, Sean Hoey, Sinead Rice, Padraig McGrane, Molly O’Donnell and Thomas Curran decided they wanted to help out the charity and decided that organising a fashion show was the best way to go about it.

The transition year students

have been working hard for weeks getting everything ready, including deciding what to wear for the event and organising refreshments for the event.

One of the event organisers Conor Durnin says that the students have been delighted with the response of fashion outlets around the town and is hoping for a great evening’s entertainment.

“We’ve been pretty busy over the last few weeks and we’ve managed to get plenty of shops around

the town to get involved. Clothes from Ruby Nu, Pulse Pacemaker, Sally West, Neola Boutique, Tom Taylor and Tony McDonnell will be on show and we’ve got about 40 models taking part.

The TY students hope everyone will come along and support the show, which takes place this Friday in the Fairways Hotel Dundalk.

Admission costs €10 and can be purchased from any of the shops named above or through the Fairways Hotel.

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

Anniversary Mother Geraldine, who died 19th April 2011.

Gore (Geraldine) 1st Anniversary In loving memory of our

There are people I can talk to But it’s not like talking to you There are people I can go places with But it’s not like being with you There are other people who matter to me But no one matters in quite the way you do There really is no substitute for you

And your friendship That’s why I just wanted To let you know I really miss you.

Loved and sadly missed by your daughters Adele and Deborah, sons Keith and Christopher, Donal, Gary, Sharon and grandchildren, friends and family.

Anniversary mass will be held on 22 April at 12pm in Drumalane Chapel, Newry.

We are now taking Family Notices.

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

Tel 042 9320888 Marist students who are organising a fashion show for charity

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 each week from €5 Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 FOR RENT; New 3 Bed town house in small quiet cul de sac in Blackrock. All mod cons, completely furnished. €700 per month. Tel 086-8532657.

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Three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 85 Woodbury Gardens. Clean, spacious house. Phone 0876342800 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. 086-8208303 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

SALE SALE SALE Precision Pianos-Lowest prices in Ireland..Guaranteed!! Precision Pianos, Northlink Retail Park, Dundalk, Co Louth.

0429332200 www.precisionpianos.com FURNITURE FACTORY SECONDS. ½ price or less now open upstairs at WOGANS, NEW STOCK WEEKLY, North link Home Park, Coes Road, Dundalk – Tel 042 9320040 ORIGINAL CINEMA POSTER 4’ x 3’. Spaghetti Western, Stephen Boyd in 4 For Fort Apachi. Fair Condition in Spanish €10. London Illustrated 1941 €5. 087-1548086 CLASSES, COURSES & LESSONS CELTIC SCHOOL OF MOTORING. ADI approved driving instructor, dual controlled car, test routes covered, nervous pupils welcome.

Motorcycle lessons also available. Contact Frank 089 425 8215 or 042 93 26148. www. celticschoolofmotoring.com 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. Weekdays/Evenings and weekends.

Can provide guitar if needed. Call Roy 0862052108 WEEKLY YOGA CLASSES Yoga Fox Studio.

Also pregnancy yoga & private sessions. Contact Miriam Fox 087 9765153 JOB APPLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS CV Design, Cover Letters, Job applications, handling interviews and other selection methods. Contact Jessica 0852164421 IRISH GRINDS AVAILABLE now from a fluent experienced Irish teacher.Only 7weeks until the Leaving Cert and Junior Cert exams so time to get started. For more information Contact 0871301429 SPECIAL SERVICES HUGHIE MCELROY BUILDER All types of building work carried out. *House Maintenance & Renovations*Painting & Decorating*All PVC products supplied & fitted*Wall & Floor Tiling* Power washing of driveways & houses*Large & Small jobs*Free estimates.TEL:087 2602501.

GERRY’S UPHOLSTERY SERVICE Suites/ Antique furniture repaired and re-covered.

Better than new. 0860800788 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 HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE CLAIMS. All types of household insurance claims, fire damage, flood damage, water damage, shower leaks, break-ins, call our Insurance Helpline today for a free consultation, Lo-call 1890 247 911 or mobile 087 6487466 Chimney Cleaning, Inspection & Repair. Tel: Paul McArdle 042-933-2491or 087666-0094. Email tribalky@yahoo.com Telephone Problems, Wires everywhere? Ring John (ex-Eircom) for all your needs, no job too small Tel 085 1234003 anytime.

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 AND DRIVER available for furniture removal, also single items, 3 piece suites, cookers, fridges, washing machines. Day & night Tel 086 8704908 Computer callout service. Day, evening & weekend hours. Experienced and professional. Dundalk & Blackrock and surrounding areas. Call Oisín now on 086-8778361.

Fully Qualified Mechanic available for MOT, servicing & Mechanical repairs. Renault specialist Tel Declan 0044 7749488859 HOUSE MAINTENANCE All types. Renovations/Extensions/Facia/Soffet Guttering Garden Fencing and Patios. Estimates free Tel Tom 0863961206 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 Aerial, Satellite – TV, Freeview Freesat professional installations, repairs etc. Phone Eamonn Cooney 087-267-1809, 7 Distillery Lane.

Weddings 20112 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 GremlinBusters Computer Services, FREE fault diagnosis, no-fix/no-fee, collect and return, experienced professional technicians, for very cheap service and repair rates call Paul on 086 885 7350 Carpenter available. 25 years exp. All interior, exterior including kitchens, decking, doors, floors, etc. No job too small. Keenest prices. Quality finish assured. Call Des for free quote: 087-6180150 CHIMNEY CLEANING SERVICE Dust Free Brush and Vac Reasonable rates. Phone Tommy 0871869164 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 & KEENEST Have your windows, carpet or suite of furniture cleaned at keenest prices . Also guttering, fascia boards, power hosing. Call Damien 0868469559 or 0879319243 ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC Dundalk & Carrickmacross. Acute & Chronic Pain, Stress & Anxiety plus Fertility Treatment. Ideal gift idea.

Vouchers available. Ph 086-4008189 www. acupuncture4health.ie VIDEO BOOTH FOR WEDDINGS AND PARTIES.20% DISCOUNT ON ALL BOOTHS.Wedding chair covers 1.75 Fairylight backdrop 180 Paula 087 9194111 www.wow-weddings.ie G & M Print. A3 poster prints €1 each. 100 A3 posters €85. 100 full colour business cards €30. 5000 A5 B/W flyers €99 Docket books, envelopes, stickers, memoriam cards, invitations. Contact 086 3006102/0416852821 www.gmprint.ie All prices subject to vat Tiler Available for all your tiling

jobs. Comes highly recommended. No job too small. Call 0876563705 for free quote.

Michael’s property maintenance Repairs, building, plastering, plumbing, painting, tiling, concreting, patios, gardening & PVC facia & soffits. Over 20 years experience.

Refrerences available. 086-7350357 HANDYMAN 365 - Is your to do list out of control? Contact Patrick 087-1679650 for all your home & office maintenance.

Damp proofing, leak detection, solar ventilation, chemical damp-proofing, all types of leaks. Specialist equipment. Wall mounted solar panels heat and dry your home. Aqua-solve. 087-2664224 A1 CHIMNEY CLEANING service. Very clean professional work guaranteed. Have your chimney cleaned twice a year! 087-1839952 GATES, RAILINGS, CLOTHES LINES & MORE Cheaper than any other competitor.

Free quotations. Call Gerard 085-8424365 RIDE-ON MOWER, LAWMMOWER & STRIMMER SERVICE & REPAIRS. Book your pre- season service now at Norton Bros., also service agents for most electrical power tools.

Coe’s Road Dundalk, Tel: 042 9335772.

PROFESSIONAL KITCHENS, bedroom furniture fitting/making. Full range of carpentry, doors, floors, fitting. No job too small. Handyman service also available. All prices negotiable. No job too small! 17 years experience.

0871233816 Refill your ink cartridges @ Bargain Ink, Longwalk Shopping Centre for €10 each.

Set of 4 new cartridges for Epson and Brother €16. New toners €40.

ABLE PLUS STAIRLIFTS: New Stairlifts €1499.99. Curved lifts from €4000.00. Great aftercare. Free quotes. Fully Insured. Ph: 018245763 Web: www.ableplus.ie. Email: info@ ableplus.ie Puisin Cattery For weekends away or holidays, contact An Puisin Cattery 0416851247 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 0429328301 and 085-1286436 PSYCHIC TAROT B.C. Card Parties. Individual readings. Call for readings. 089-4617083 TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: Household & office removals. No job too small. Also light

haulage. 087-9525557 Miracle Healing results with The Journey Therapy. Book now for emotional and physical healing. Phone 087-6342800 TAKE TIME OUT for yourself @ Dundalk Meditation class. Mondays 8pm and Thursdays 11am. Ramparts Road, directly opposite Dundalk Lighting. Everyone welcome! Call 087-6342800 for more information.

PLASTERER AVAILABLE Save yourself money. Get the right tradesman. First class plastering at affordable prices. No job too small. Safe pass Reg. Special rates for OAPs. Free quotes. 087-3525652.

CHILDRENS ENTERTAINMENT Magician and Balloon Modeller available for all parties. Contact Odenni. 0429372455 or 087-2473342.

SITUATIONS VACANT WANTED: D.I.Y. Person for occasional general work & repairs. Phone 087-4955521 GARDENER/CLEANER Available for hedge cutting, mowing, trimming, garden maintenance, spraying, wededing, cleaning windows, gutters etc. 087-7642182.

PLANNING NOTICES Dundalk Town Council, Further information: I, Barry Dwyer of Townparks Pharmacy at Unit 2 Canessa Buildings, Castletown Road, Dundalk, County Louth, C/o McGahon Architects Ltd, 19 Jocely Street, Dundalk Planning Ref. No 12/10 (development applied for consisted of a free standing double sided cross shaped sign) have submitted to the planning authority significant further information in relation to this application referring to a change from a freestanding sign to a sign attached to the pharmacy building. The further information is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs of making a copy at the offices of Dundalk Town Council from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation, not later than two weeks after receipt of this newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Appliances

Builder

Blinds

Blinds

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Builder

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Couriers

Driveways

Gardening

Locksmiths

Patios & Paving Electrical

Gardening

Gardening

Heating

Gravel

Plumbing

Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

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Windows

Top Soil

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Local kickboxers’ five champion titles The Kickboxing Ireland Junior Leinster Regional Championships took place Sunday April 15, in Leixlip, Co. Kildare.

Martial Arts School of Fitness (MAS-F) took a small contingent of four junior members to compete for titles and they took home a huge haul of five Champion Titles, two Second positions and one Third.

First on the floor was Chantelle McCabe who secured two wins and one bronze to take home.

Monique Martin performing a fast paced and energetic katana routine took home a well earned second place.

As the top two in each division from each Regional Championships get the opportunity to go forward to the National Championships, both girls will once again compete at the end of the month Darren O’Donogh once again impressed the judges with the Kama’s and took his first Championship title of the day in this division. Next up for Darren was the musical forms, where he has always gained great comments from all. Darren achieved his Second Leinster Championship title of the day here. Darren went on

to compete in the continuous fighting division and once again, won a Leinster Title, giving him a HatTrick to take home with him.

MAS-F’s final competitor was Tomás Flanagan who earned for a Second place ranking in Leinster.

Tomás will join his team-mates in the upcoming Irish National Championship at the end of the month.

By Niamh Kirk The youth of Dundalk are not as detached from their history as one might think as the Dundalk Cumann of Sinn Fein Republican Youth had a very active Easter weekend.

The group spent Saturday distributing Easter Lilies and information leaflets on its origins. The Easter Lily honours Ireland’s martyrs.

Louth’s Youth Co-ordinator, Eugene Garvey was happy with the day’s success, estimating that 2,000 lilies and leaflets were distributed in a matter of hours. Local activist

Sinead Cairns described the public response as “hugely positive”.

The commemorations continued over the Easter weekend with many of Dundalk’s young activists were members of the Colour Party which led the march from Dundalk’s Market Square to the Republican Plot in Dowdalshill. Youth activist Connall McGuill read the 1916 Proclamation of Independence to hundreds gathered in the graveyard.

He was later joined by Dessie Ellis, a Sinn Fein TD from Dublin West and described the commemoration as a “great success.”

Local kickboxers enjoyed a good weekend

Active Easter for local youth

Comedians’ new band to appear at Spirit Store

The 123Fours are a punk rock band from Ireland. It features three comedians Colin Murphy (guitar), John Colleary (guitar and vocals) and Dermot Whelan (drums) and comedy promoter and exMoondog, Jackie Hamilton (bass and vocals).

The band will be appearing in The Spirit Store on Friday April 27th.

Admission is €10.

Comedian, Colin Murphy, got an electric guitar for his 40th birthday. Like all sensible men in the throes of a midlife crisis, he said a sentence much feared by wives all over the world: “I should form a band!” That he did.

He called the only other people he knew who would have time to do things they should have done when they were twelve – other comedians. John Colleary (The Savage Eye) and Dermot Whelan (Republic of Telly ) joined the band after little persuasion. Then Colin realised the band was missing something. A musician. So he called on his old pal, Jackie Hamilton. Jackie worked for the BBC in Belfast but, more importantly, he had been in a real band from Derry called The Moondogs. A real punk band that had recorded real John Peel sessions.

So the 123Fours was born and Colin immediately set about using his forgotten art degree to design band logos no-one would ever see. The 123Fours made their debut at the Portlaois Comedy Festival in 2009 and, ever since, have been banging out the hits of the Ramones, The Undertones, The Clash and any other great bands that start their songs with, “One, two, three, four...!”

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

Kia Optima The stunning new Kia Optima has hit Irish shores.

Since its launch demand has been very high with 300,000 units being sold worldwide to date.

Aimed at the Business User

the Kia Optima is only available with a 134 bhp 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine there is the choice of either six-speed manual or automatic gearbox with a top speed of 202kph/125mph.

The manual can achieve 5.1

litres per 100km, with CO2 emissions of 128g/km.

There are four trim levels and by previous Korean standards, equipment levels are very high which include options such a highend 550 watt Infinity audio

system with 12 speakers in eight different locations throughout the car, including a boot-mounted subwoofer.

Other features include self-parking, heated and co o l - ve n t i l a te d seats, cornering lights, panoramic

sunroof, reverse parking camera and an automatic cabin defogging system.

Attention to detail and design are highlighted by Kia using TFT instruments on all but the entry level Optima – the Supervision system comprises of a 3.5-inch-colour information screen flanked by a tachometer on one side and a speedometer on the other. The information screen can be programmed with the driver’s preferred menus and images.

SEAT EXEO

The SEAT Exeo Saloon and ST Estate has been revised for the 2012 season.

On the outside the face has been give a nip and tuck with new bixenon headlights and LED daytime running lights (standard on Sport models and optional on SE spec’ cars).

Plus there is a range

of new alloy wheels.

On the inside the interior materials have been upgraded and revised– including improved leather on the steering wheel and revised upholstery.

The Exeo’s 2.0 TDI common rail engine has been tweaked to lower emissions to 129 g/km and improve fuel consumption,

according to SEAT – the Exeo Saloon is now capable of 58.9 mpg on the combined cycle.

Soon there will be an Exeo Ecomotive model which will utilize SEAT’s Start/Stop technology, to improve fuel efficiency and endeavour to push the CO2 figure under 120 g/ km.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012

MERC GL CLASS

SUBARU LEGACY

Subaru have made a number of improvements to their Legacy Tourer, the most important change is the fitment of Subaru’s next-generation Boxer diesel engine.

The new Euro 5-compliant Boxer diesel engine see a 7% increase in the fuel economy – now according to Subaru the combined figure is 49.6 mpg and CO2 emissions are cut by up to 7.5% to 149 g/km. The diesel engine produces 147ps and delivers 350 Nm worth of torque between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm.

The 0 – 62 mph figure is 9.6 seconds and the top speed 120 mph. The 6-speed manual transmission has been also overhauled which is standard fitment for the diesel model.There is a choice of a petrol

engine and three trim levels depending on the model. Exterior changes are limited to new, aerodynamically smoother door mirrors, a higherresolution rear view camera (SE NavPlus only).

Inside, the 2012 Subaru Legacy sports a single-CD unit featuring a large LCD display screen together with USB and iPod connectivity and steering wheelmounted controls.

On diesel models (with manual transmission) the instrument cluster now has a ‘shift-up’ indicator to encourage an economical driving style.

All models feature cruise control, a glass ‘tilt-nslide’ sunroof, dualzone fully automatic air-conditioning, and a premium audio system with six speak-

ers (including two tweeters), automatic lights and wipers and a powered driver’s seat.

A Bluetooth® hands-free system with voice activation is fitted as standard, while all but the S model are trimmed in black leather. Models with Lineartronic transmission feature steering wheel mounted paddleshifters as standard.

SE and SE NavPlus models now feature a ‘Sports Package’ which comprises a sports front bumper and front grille, dark tinted headlamps, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and special Bilstein dampers.

Subaru Legacy Tourer SE NavPlus models also feature a new DVD navigation system as standard, with a high-resolution eight-inch display.

Details of the new Mercedes GL Class have been announced. GLClass is targeted at Range Rover buyers, although it can seat 7, which Land Rover’s flag ship SUV cannot accommodate. It certainly is not a small car with dimensions of 5120mm long, width 2141 mm and a height of 1850mm.

There will be a choice of two power units – the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY with a charged, directinjecting BlueDI-

RECT petrol engine. On average the new model range undercuts the preceding model series by 19 percent when it comes to consumption figures.

With SCR technology and AdBlue injection the GL 350 already undercuts the EU 5 emissions standard which is planned for 2014. With a

consumption of 38 mpg (NEDC overall), the diesel model returns a 20 percent improvement over its predecessor.

With a CO2 figure of 192 g/km the GL 350

B l u eT E C achieves the best value in its power category.

In spite of the considerably reduced energy requirement, performance is

significantly increased. Whilst the maximum output of the first-generation GL 350 BlueTEC was 211 hp and the maximum torque 540 newton metres, the new model now boasts 258 hp and 620 newton metres.

The GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY has an NEDC consumption of

25 mpg, making it the most fuel-efficient V8 petrol model in its class. A GL500 Bi-Turbo charged 4.6-litre BlueDIRECT engine with 408 hp is used here.

The new generation returns an 18 percent improvement in efficiency and offers the best classification currently possible: EU 5.

B o t h units are mated to a new sevenstage automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC PLUS which works in conjunction with the ECO start/ stop technology.

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Dundalk Leader 18th April 2012