02-05-2012

18,000 COPIES WEEKLY Students working in the community Page 7

Photos from Confirmation Day in Dundalk Pages 6 & 14

Minister for Children in town Pages 2 & 5

Wednesday, 2nd May, 2012. Vol. 5, Issue 18 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

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

Claire’s solo run to Melbourne Rose title

By Eunan Whyte

The family of local girl, Claire Lynch, are celebrating a huge victory Down Under after she claimed the prestigious Melbourne Rose of Tralee title on Saturday night.

The 25-year-old from Stabannon achieved her childhood dream of competing in the event and was delighted to have claimed the title which now leaves her one step away from the overall final in Tralee.

Claire will fly home in June to compete in the regional qualifier where she will be hoping to secure her place in the world-renowned festival in August.

A very proud sister, Deirdre, revealed that Claire had always been keen to take part

stage.

“Claire played football with Stabannon Parnells before she left and then joined a team in Melbourne. Some of the girls there convinced her to apply and after going for an interview, she got word that she had made the competition”, added Deirdre who explained how she used her football skills to impress the judges.

“The party piece was a bit unusual in that she displayed her football skills, including soloing the ball across the stage. Because Claire was wearing a formal dress, it meant having it specially Local girl Claire Lynch is this year’s Melbourne Rose. made so it could come off “When we were young at the waist and underneath in the event and finally got her chance after moving to Claire always said she want- she was wearing her football Melbourne in 2008 and add- ed to compete in the Rose of ed that a very unique party- Tralee and she even had her Continued on piece helped clinch victory. party piece planned at that Page 14

Priest sheds light on the confession issue

By Niamh Kirk

Redeemer priest Fr Paddy Rushe dispelled some of the myth surrounding the recent controversy over Justice Minister, Alan Shatter’s insistence that priests should break the confessional seal.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter confirmed last week that the mandatory requirement to report abuse would extend into the confession box resulting in the Catholic Priests Association of Ireland stating they would defy the requirement despite the threat of 10 years imprisonment.

To date, most local parishes have said they will not break the seal of confession to report sex abuse which many feel has brought the church and state in direct conflict.

However local priest Fr Rushe has shed some light on the controversy.

Continued on Page 10

Windfarm battle at Rockmarshal continues

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

By Niamh Kirk

THE battle for Rockmarshal Mountain is set to continue as Gaelectric Ltd has lodged a detailed appeal against Louth County Council’s

(LCC) refusal for planning permission to build on the mountain. Gaelectric lodged the appeal to An Bord Pleanala last week in an effort to see their project, which consists of five wind tur-

bines, come to fruition.

Planning permission for the turbines and accompanying buildings was refused last month citing many of the reasons that were acute concerns for the residents.

Louth County Council received hundreds of signatures on petitions against the windfarm and more than 116 submissions detailing concerns over the im-

pact of the turbines on residential properties, the landscape and the concerns over the effect of shadow flicker.

Following a dedicated resistance by the community in Jenkinstown and the surrounding area, the Protect Rockmarshal Mountain Group gave a cautious welcome to the initial refusal but warned that an appeal was likely to be forthcoming. The

company lodged their appeal last week claiming that the land in question is largely commercial forestry land and described the general land use character of the area as a mixture of poorly planned housing clusters, agricultural and industrial.

Gealectric say they would materially assist the Council in meeting its 40% renewable energy target by 2020 and

that after much investigation Rockmarshal is the most viable location for an onshore windfarm. .

In response The Protect Rockmarshal Mountain Group will make a detailed observation to an Bord Pleanala. The group say they will seek “consultants in making their submissions to counter most of the assertions made by the applicant

The House marks 21st anniversary Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald was in Dundalk last Friday to help ‘The House’ in Cox’s Demesne celebrate its 21st birthday.

The House was first established in 1991 to provide somewhere within the community where young people who were excluded from all mainstream programmes, projects and clubs would be welcomed, learn new skills and be given new opportunities.

Today it caters for up to 250 children weekly helping in the personal, social and educational needs of young people in the area.

The main projects it offers are : An After School Service, special projects for young people at risk, Garda Diversion Project, a probation project and youth clubs.

Two derelict houses were provided by Dundalk Town Council and were renovated by local people.

This took place over six months and was spearheaded and driven

by Brian Doyle. Local tradesmen and young people gave of their time and skills voluntarily.

Speaking at the event which celebrated 21 years of ‘The House’ local volunteer Brian Doyle recalled the day when work first started on the

Minister Frances Fitzgerald, Peter Fitzpatrick TD, Clodagh O’Mahony and Brian Doyle.

Above: Girls from Redeemer school at a ‘After School’ in The House

project.

“We were going to change the world. We stood outside this building with just a sledge hammer and an idea. I remember I was stood outside with the sledge and there were rats inside doing group work.”

Project manager Clodagh O’Mahoney spoke of the successes achieved so far by ‘The House’ whilst also speaking of the challenges that lie ahead, pleading with the minister for help with regards to funding for the project.

Minister Fitzgerald, a former social worker in the Ballymun child and

family centre, paid tribute to all the volunteers who had helped to make ‘The House’ such a success and thanked everybody for sharing their personal experiences of their time in the house.

“It’s been great to see the evolution and development of this project and how it has brought all the different agencies together” she stated.

“I especially acknowledge the role of the schools in the project.

Non-attendance in school is a real marker towards a child’s development and we have to be alert about it. If you can give a young person an experience of success it can really transform their lives dramatically.”

Minister Fitzgerald was then asked to unveil a plaque in the reception area to mark the special occasion of the house’s anniversary.

in the original application and in their appeal to An Bord Pleaneala.”

With the fate of north County Louth’s landscape still very much undecided the group want to remind that all observations or objections to the wind farm must be submitted to An Bord Pleanala not

later than 5.30pm, May 21, accompanied by a fee of €50. Only those who have lodged an objection to the original application to LCC and have obtained a written receipt in respect of their submission may go on to make an observation to An Bord Pleanala.

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

John Short Hire Services this month celebrates 35 years of top quality service to their customers in Dundalk and surrounding areas.

Shorts opened for business on Quay St. in 1977 and moved to their present location, across the road in 1983. In spite of the difficult business environment Shorts continue to provide a top class service.

Shorts regularly update their huge range of equipment and have recently added a new 1.6 Ton Takeuchi Mini Digger and Nifty boom lift (cherry picker), continuing to show their commitment in

maintaining the high standard demanded in the hire market.

In addition to providing a wide variety of machinery to customers from all walks of life, John Short Hire also offers a comprehensive Hydraulic hose repair service for agricultural equipment, building equipment and all other Hydraulic equipment.

J o h n Short Hire was founded by John and his late father John Snr. The records kept from the early days of the business show some familiar names of customers still doing business with Shorts today. John Short says it would not have been possible to get started without the help, guidance and support of his late parents John Snr. and Bridie.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Talks to continue over inNews Brief the future of JJB jobs

By Paul Byrne

Talks between the management of JJB and trade union Mandate took place on Monday with both sides discussing JJB’s proposals of redundancy and change of conditions for up to 40 employees.

Last week JJB employees were sent a letter by management telling them that they faced a choice of taking voluntary redundancy or to re-apply for a job under new terms with reduced pay.

The company blamed very disappointing trading performance over a number of years which resulted in financial losses for the JJB. This news came despite US company ‘Dicks’ announcement earlier on in April that it was to invest £20m into the ailing company. The

letter to employees confirmed that 40 jobs were in danger due to the company’s poor performance.

“As you have been informed, during the briefing conducted at individual store and health club level, we are now facing a “collective redundancy” situation which unfortunately is expected to result in some 40 colleagues losing their jobs with JJB Sport Limited.

“While every reasonable effort will be made to mitigate the number of redundancies and to achieve the necessary reduction in employment number by voluntary means we cannot at this point rule out the requirement for compulsory redundancies”, the letter stated.

Willie Hamilton from trade union Mandate spoke before Monday’s meeting with JJB saying they would

be asking JJB to explain to them issues regarding ‘Dicks’ substantial investment in the company.

That meeting between JJB management and Mandate took place on Monday morning with both sides trying to come to a resolution.

Speaking after the meeting Mandate’s Willie Hamilton, confirmed that further talks would be held in the near future.

“There were lengthy talks between both sides and both sides have agreed to commit to maintaining confidentiality. Further talks will be held in the coming weeks and we will be able to say more then.

“One thing I can tell you is that the 30 day consultation period only started from yesterday.” added Willie.

Age Friendly Initiatives

Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State for Disability, Older People, Equality & Mental Health, will be in Dundalk Institute of Technology on May 2 to open a conference on Ageing, Health & Environment: Partnerships for Excellence. The event will bring together many experts in the field of developing Age Friendly Environments with the aim of demonstrating the key role DkIT plays in Ageing research and education through a wide range of partnerships, including Louth Age Friendly Initiative, the Netwell and Casala research centres and the Louth Older People’s Forum. If you would like to attend this conference please contact elaine.mcgarrell@dkit.ie with your name, title and organisation. Registration is free but spaces are limited.

Got a Story?

Back: Peter Egan (Fas Centre Manager), Briege Mc Mahon (Fas), Aine Dollard, Jackie Flynn, Catherine Boylan, Tessa Bailey Bromley and Tess O’Donoghue (Fas); Front: Nicole Mc Donagh, Stacey Taaffe, Denise Mc Guinness, Ann Mc Bride and Donna Evans (Fas) (and missing: Adrienne Mc Donagh, and Charlene Harper)

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

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Minister launches ‘think big’ mental health project

Frances Fitzgerald T.D, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, was in Dundalk to officially launch a mental health awareness project at the Craóbh Rua Community Youth Project.

The project, entitled ‘Our Space’, involved the transformation of a room at Craóbh Rua into a sanctuary space for some of the young people of Muirhevnamor, offering them a quiet and safe space to go to and seek advice, and to take time out of the stresses of everyday life.

It was developed by Dubhaltach Mulvenna from Dundalk, a trainee youth worker in Craóbh Rua, to enable young people to do projects in their community that will make a difference to young peo-

Included are Dubhaltach Mulvenna (Back second from right) and participants in the project

ple’s mental health.

Minister Fitzgerald said of the project: “We all know that growing up is never easy. For some young people it can prove very tough. Promoting and sustaining positive mental health among our young people is therefore vital. Spaces such as the one I am launching have an im-

portant role to play in this.

I commend all involved in the delivery of this superb initiative.”

Dubhaltach explained the background to his Think Big project, which is supported by O2.

“The project came about when we as a group decided we wanted to do something to help young people in Muirhevnamor deal better with the stresses they face.

“We decided to transform the room at the Craóbh Rua to provide young people with a space to think things through. We applied to the Think Big programme for funding and they also provided us with a mentor who helped us make the very best of the project”, he explained.

Dundalk Railway Heritage Society

By Paul Byrne

The Dundalk Railway Heritage Society of Ireland have organised a steam excursion trip from Dundalk to Dublin which will take place on Thursday May 10.

The Heritage Society have secured a reservation of one coach with a capacity for 64 people for the excursion. The train is sched-

uled to depart Dundalk at 12.45pm and is due in Dublin at 2.15pm.

Tickets cost €12 and can be purchased from Brendan McQuaid (0429338165 or 087-2835099) or Davy McArdle (0429336374 or 0872811191) or from any committee member. Tickets can also be booked at Clarke Railway Station.

Anybody interested in travelling on the excursion are asked to

note that the fare is for a one way trip from Dundalk to Dublin and does not include a return ticket to Dundalk. People travelling on the excursion must make their own arrangements for the return journey back to Dundalk.

The Dundalk Railway Heritage Society was formed last year from former employees of the GNR Goods Depot at Barrack Street.

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News

in Brief Nails demo

Konad Nails are holding a demonstration day at Castletown pharmacy on Friday May 11 from 2:30pm to 6pm Everyone is invited to come along.

Castletown ICA

Castletown ICA meet every Wednesday night in O’Hanlon Park hall at 8pm. New members are welcome. Contact 087 1303355.

Vehicle seized three times

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

By Court Reporter

Anthony Cunnane (29) with addresses at 62, Seafield Lawns and 48 Afton Drive, Dundalk was prosecuted for driving on three different occasions without insurance, driving licence, tax and NCT certificate.

Two of these were on successive days

on September 27 and 28 last, and the other on January 9, and on each occasion the Gardai seized the vehicle, Dundalk Court heard.

His solicitor Niall Lavery explained that the defendant had since disposed of the vehicle in question, and he accepted that he should not have

been driving.

It was explained that he had sustained serious injuries as a child.

Judge William Hamill adjourned a total of 16 counts against the defendant to August 2 requesting a medical and also community service report.

Confirmation Day in Dundalk

James Shevlin, Kean Crosby, Kerry Ogbeifun, Tiarnan Duffy, Kieran Dollard and Jack Brodigan, all of the CBS, made their confirmation at St Patricks Cathedral on Saturday

Mary Ibilola, Tope Ajayi with Martha, Esther, Dipo and David Ibilola Tony, Kim, James and Ursula Shevlin

Back: Bronagh Matthews, Roinin Coleman and Katie Fox Front: Shauna Mulholland, Rosie Culligan and Evelyn Christina and Tiernan Quigley, Andrew Rogers and GerKaneDavid Ibilola aldine Quigley

Chloe Quigley with her Dad, Paul Heeney

Aoibhin, John, Sean, Brenda and Cathy Laverty. Sean made his confirmation at St Patricks on Saturday

Back: John, Eoin and Linda Murphy; front: Conor, Ciara and Barry Murphy

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

DkIT shows its caring side Dundalk Institute of Technology has set up a new volunteer initiative called DkIT Cares, encouraging students and staff of the college to sign up for various volunteering opportunities around the Dundalk community.

The initiative, which has just been launched this year, is unique in the national third-level community. The idea was modelled on a similar organisation in Boston called Boston Cares.

During the past few weeks members of DkIT Cares have taken part in the various volunteering opportunities provided, such as renovations at The Birches Alzheimer’s Centre and gardening at the Organic Gardens, and DkIT President, Denis Cummins, stated that there was a benefit for everyone involved.

Students from DkIT taking part in the new volunteering initiative

“The DkIT Cares initiative brings students and staff together to work for the benefit of charities and good causes and allows them to use their knowledge and expertise for the benefit of these organisations. It is a great counterbalance to academic endeavour and I know

many of the students who get involved with DkIT Cares while in college will continue to contribute generously with their time when they graduate”, he stated.

A monthly calendar is posted on the website offering a range of one-off, short (a few hours) ac-

tivities such as gardening, handywork, bag-packing, acting as stewards – no training required – just a chance to get together with a small group from DkIT to help out wherever needed for local charities.

Students and staff just have a look online when they have some time, see what opportunities are coming up, and e-mail dkitcares@dkit.ie to sign up for that event. Students can have some friends join DkIT Cares with them, or make some new ones on the day. The organisers confirm participation, and provide full details. Volunteers show up, do their thing, and that’s it!

DkIT Cares is on the lookout for charities that need assistance. Those interested can visit www. dkitcares.dkit.ie or email dkitcares@dkit.ie .

Company will give schools advice Junior Achievement Ireland (JA) has partnered with global test development and delivery firm Prometric to promote the value of staying in school and using an education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics as a foundation for a rewarding professional career.

Prometric, in addition to a €5,000 contribution to JA, has organised a team of employee volunteers to visit Dundalk-area schools and mentor secondary school students.

Junior Achievement Ireland encourages young people to remain in education and teaches them the skills they need to

succeed in a changing world. JA Ireland is part of a worldwide organisation reaching out to 9.3 million young people each year.

In Ireland, JA has grown from reaching 500 students in 1995 to 70,000 today, through partnerships with more than 150 leading organisations.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Pete Treanor’s

Weekly Quiz

Country Music Who was nicknamed ‘The Man in Black’?

Pot Luck What during the 1960s were Time, Idea, Celebration and Phoenix?

History Who described England as a nation of shopkeepers?

Celebrity Singer and actress, Carla Bruni, is married to what politician?

Motors Who is driven around in a car that is nicknamed “The Beast”?

Ireland In what Co Kerry town is the Puck Fair held annually?

Local Where in Dundalk was Shambles Lane?

The Bible Who in the Old Testament had a brother called Aaron and a sister

called Miriam?

Sport Who did Arsene Wenger succeed as manager of Arsenal FC? Radio Which Radio Eireann programme, presented by a character called Dingo, popularized traditional Irish Dancing on the wireless?

This Week’s Stinker In what famous film did little known actor, Kenneth Colley, play Jesus Christ?

—this week’s answers—

Members of the Louth Trades Network who are currently working on renovations at Carroll Meade in Dundalk

Dundalk’s 10k and half marathon fast approaching

By Paul Byrne

After the success of last year’s event, the Dundalk 10K and Half-Marathon returns with the race taking place on Wednesday May 9.

The race will begin at Talk to me Mobile Phone shop at the Demesne Shopping Centre located just across from the newly refurbished Market Square.

The route travels to the Ballymac Roundabout and back. The finish-

ing line will be located at McKenna man on Earl Street. The route includes some the great aspects of Dundalk and spectators are able to see participants three times along the route.

Last year the race attracted over 1500 competitors and organisers are hoping that the race will attract the same amount of runners – if not more this year.

The official sponsor of the race is Talk-to-Me Mobile phones and the official Race Charity is Dundalk Si-

mon community. An Additional €2 of each entrant’s fee will be donated to the Ellen Barron McGee fund.

Participants running the marathon for a charity must directly contact and liaise with the charity themselves.

The Half-Marathon costs €25 to register and the 10k Road Race costs €35 to register. To register for the race log on to www.runireland. com.

For more information log on to www.dundalkhalfmarathon.com

O Fiaich hosts art exhibition The Indoor garden in Carroll’s Building, DkIT is to host the work of O’Fiaich’s Certificate Art and Design, Graphic Design, Photography and Multimedia students.

The exhibition is short lived and people have only two days to see the exceptional work of those entering the creative industries. The exhibition stands to be as eclectic as the students who attend O’Fiaich with pieces from the traditional arts such as painting, ceramics sculpture, metal craft and print making as well as graphic design and digital imaging. It will also feature pieces from the Institute’s photography classes.

A spokesperson from the institute said “These courses aim to develop the students’ creative, critical and aesthetic understanding, to help students to identify their strengths and future direction, and to arm them with the necessary skills so that they can assemble a high quality portfolio which will allow them to further their studies.

Most of these students go on to follow degree and diploma courses in related disciplines. Over the years the courses have been very successful in helping students achieve their aims.

“Many past students have completed courses of study and are working in diverse areas such as graphic design, interior design, film and animation as well as traditional fine art areas and education. There is a great need in this country for people trained in these areas, with an awareness of our evolving visual culture, and skilled in the design disciplines particularly.”

While most of the work will have to be returned to the makers, this year the photography class has decided to donate any monies raised by sale of photographic prints to the Birches Centre, Alzheimer’s Day Care Centre.

1. Johnny Cash 2. Beers 3. Napolean 4. Nicolas Sarkozy 5. President of the USA 6. Killorglin 7.

Top of Market St 8. Moses 9. Bruce Rioch 10. Take the Floor. Stinker: The Life of Brian.

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Gaming extension move rejected

By Paul Byrne

A motion to extend the areas around town where gaming can take place has been rejected by Dundalk Town Council with nine councillors rejecting the motion and just two accepting.

An application had been made to the council by the Dundalk Sports Bowl to extend part III of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 to the area at Racecourse Road where they had hoped to install gaming machines on the premises.

There are currently only a select few areas in Dundalk where gaming is allowed with the boundary currently ending at Bridge St. After a robust exchange of views at the monthly Town Council meeting members overwhelm-

Tributes to retired council staff

Louth County Council staff members were joined by family and colleagues at a dinner to mark their combined 267 years of service ranging from 16 years to 42 years with Louth Local Authorities.

In making a presentation to the retirees the County Manager, Conn Murray, thanked the staff for their service and wished them a long happy and health retirement.

ingly decided not to recommend extending the areas where gaming is permitted.

Explaining why he would be voting against the motion Eamonn O’Boyle spoke of the ‘scourge of gambling’ that affects people in Dundalk.

“Gambling can be a major scourge for the people of this town and I wouldn’t feel comfortable accepting this motion. There are already more than enough outlets around Dundalk to facilitate people’s gambling needs” he stated.

Cllr Oliver Morgan echoed these sentiments saying that he had ‘listened to the voices of the people of Dundalk who had expressed major concerns with yet another outlet for gambling in the town’.

Nine councillors voted against

the motion while Cllr Conor Keelan and Cllr Sean Bellew voted for it. There was one abstention.

Speaking after the vote, Bob Evans, General Manager of the Dundalk Sportsbowl said he was disappointed with the outcome but insisted he was now looking forward to the re-opening of the sportsbowl.

“Obviously we are disappointed with how the vote went but we accept the council’s decision and we are now looking to the future.

The gaming machines were a very small part of what we are trying to do and we still have a hell of a lot to offer the public.

We are looking ahead and making sure that we offer the people of Dundalk Ireland’s premier and most luxurious bingo and social club,” he insisted.

Back l/r: Jim Nugent Library Service Cllr Peter Savage, Bernard Keogan, Finance dept, Ellen O’Hanlon, Co. Development Board, Conn Murray Co. Manager; front: Kathleen Muckian, Housing Dept, Ronan McGinn, Motor Tax, Pauline Watters, Planning Dept. Catherine McDonnell, Co. Dev. Board, Marguerite Laverty, Finance.

Cllr Peter Savage com- he as an elected member thanked them for their unmented on the profession- had received when deal- failing service to the comal and courteous service ing with those retiring. He munities of Louth.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Priest sheds light on the confession issue

Continued from Page 1 He described the situation as a constructed argument and noted that if someone is coming for confession they are coming to repent, they are relieving themselves of guilt. Fr Rush noted that it would be incumbent on a priest to lay the situation out before the person and ask them to turn themselves in order to be absolved.

The priest of 16 years explained: “The confessional seal is sacrosanct but there is lack of understanding about the sacrament itself. Theologically speaking there are three parts to the sacrament. A person must show that they are sorry, then they must make a firm commitment to amendments to their behaviour and they must receive penance.”

He explained that you have not shown that you are truly repentant for a serious matter until you have given yourself up and that this is what would be required for your penance and for absolution.

“A part of turning themselves in shows that they know the seriousness of what they have done”, he commented.

The three elements must be completed in order for the sacrament to stand and for a person to receive absolution “You can not absolve someone if they are not willing to go the full way to owning up to their offences. A priest should be conscious and savvy enough to deal with something like this in a straight forward way.”

Looking to the core function of the sacrament he noted that he “cannot think of any instances where someone would think they could not turn themselves in but could seek solace or consolation from the sacrament.”

Funds raised for SOSAD Caroline Lynch (Organiser), Ian Dollard (Chairman), Vincent Byrne

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

in Brief Car Boot Sale

The Marist Parents Council are holding a Car Boot presenting a cheque Sale on Sunday May 27 from 1pm to 5pm in the to Kim Jackson from Marist Car Park.

SOSAD. €1300 was Contact 0871312358 for raised for SOSAD after a details.

‘Take me Out’ fundraiser

(owner of Cluskeys)

took place in the pub

Boost for community employment scheme The Government has reconsidered plans to cut funding to Community Employment Schemes in Co Louth.

In February plans to take almost €500k out of the funding to the county’s 28 CE Schemes were revealed, prompting serious concern for the 743 participants as well as the 44 supervisors.

Many of Louth’s CE schemes had finish dates this year but following a preliminary financial review the department

have now confirmed that “There are no plans in 2012 to reduce the allocated number of Community Employment (CE) places in Co. Louth.”

The result of the review was a decision to make savings in the administration costs of the schemes. The time frame for a full review has been lengthened according to Peter Fitzpatrick TD to allow more time for schemes to engage with local officials in the finalisation of their respec-

tive budgets and for the Department to bring forward improvements to the overall operation of Community Employment which will improve the budgetary situation for schemes There are currently 28 CE schemes running in Co Louth employing more than 750 people. Among the larger schemes include is Dundalk ICTU Centre Ltd. which as 53 participants and the mid Louth CE Ltd which has 61.

Vodafone workers vote for Have you strike action over jobs move Got a Story?

News

By Niamh Kirk

The overwhelming majority of Vodafone customer care staff has voted in favour of industrial action. The Communication Workers Union balloted staff last week the results of which between Dundalk and Dublin were 262 for and two against

industrial action.

The move to protect jobs came only weeks before the deadline for the transfer of the customer service form Rigney Dolphin’s call centres to Teleperformances in Newry.

According to Terry Delaney of the CWU, this sends out a clear message from workers.

“This result is an unambiguous demand from workers at Vodafone for industrial action to protest at the decisions of the Company over the last 12 months to export almost 500 jobs in its customer care services for its Irish customer base to locations in the North, Egypt and India.”

The Deputy General Secretary described the

Interculture Day St Fancis school Blackrock celebrated interculture day where all the children dressed up in the colours of their country and tasted all the different dishes made by the parents

company’s actions as arrogant, callous and deceitful in their treatment of workers and the complete disregard for the damaging impacts on the livelihoods and futures of the workers affected, and their families and communities.

The CWU criticised the manner in which Vodafone have handled negotiations, stating that the company had failed to respond to the questions and concerns of workers in a “clear and forthright manner “ He then referred to a series of leaked emails that that he said shows the company attempts to engage in ‘spin and disinformation about the true impact of the decisions.

The result of the ballot now opens the way for industrial action unless they say, Vodafone make efforts to address the concerns of the workers immediately. Mr Delaney said, “Vodafone must reconsider the impact of its decisions on its Irish business and Irish workers.”

Vodafone have said the pay rate and working conditions for those who transfer would not change but the commuting costs are making the viability of transferring unlikely for many.

In contrast to their original statement that no jobs would be lost - a statement from Vodafone did recognise “that some employees may not be in

a position to relocate in these circumstances”.

A period of consultation that has been ongoing for the past four weeks may be extended past the May 8 deadline.

A spokesperson for Vodafone said “This consultation process is ongoing.

Specifics for individuals impacted by the move to Teleperformance forms an essential part of the consultation and any solutions for those who will not relocate to Newry is being discussed through the process. Vodafone will continue to engage with the CWU and do everything possible to ensure that people are kept informed of developments and projected timelines.”

Marathon Marshals

Dundalk half marathon would like to reach out and ask for support.

For the safety of each competitor the organisers need as many marshals and stewards on the course. The route is fully closed to traffic and gardai will be manning the major junctions. You can sign the marshal list and be assigned an area for you to go to from Saturday May 5 to Tuesday May 8 from 10am to 3pm. Contact Bryan for more information on 0872204870.

Viking Festival

The official launch night of the 2012 Viking Festival is Friday May 4 at 8pm in the Loft History Hall Annagassan (over Slans pub).

This night is to promote our Viking Festival, which is the main fundraiser for the Linn Duachaill Viking Excavation Project.

A Night At The Dogs

The Muscular Dystrophy Dundalk & District Branch ran a ‘Night at the Dogs’ at Dundalk Stadium on Saturday night. All of the races were sponsored by local businesses and generous individuals.

There were two raffles on, on the night with 25 prizes up for grabs. The turn out was tremendous as the organizers were delighted with the amount raised for the charity from the night!

San Giovanni Pilgrimage

A pilgrimage to San Giovanni Rotondo and Assisi will take place from August 20 to 27 under tour leader, Owen Rice. Total price is €965. For details and bookings contact Owen Rice at 9372455.

Household Charge

Public Campaign Against Household Charges group continue to meet to meet every Wednesday between 7pm and 8pm in Oriel Park, Carrick Road, Dundalk. Everyone is welcome. Come alng and ask questions and share your thoughts and concerns.

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

2 maja 2012 roku nasza organizacja – Simul Polonia – skończy dwa lata. Bardzo cieszymy się z tej rocznicy.

Jest to dla nas ogromny sukces.

Nasza polonijna organizacja próbuje zjednoczyć Polaków zamieszkałych w Dundalk i okolicach. Próbuje zaistnieć wśród społeczności Irlandzkiej i pokazać się od jak najlepszej strony. Integrować nas, nasze kultury, tradycje jednocześnie pielegnując polskość. Sławiąc naszą ojczyznę na pięknej zielonej wyspie, na której zamieszkaliśmy wraz z rodzinami i dziećmi.

Wraz z Simul Polonia pojawiać się zaczęły polskie artykuły, początkowo w Gońcu, obecnie zaś w Dundalk Leader. Dzięki Gosi Kozłowskie,j jednej z założycielek Simul Polonia, we współpracy z fundacją Forige i Apple Tree powstał Klub Młodych „Pajęczyna”. Przy Simul Polonia powstał również klub fotograficzny, który prężnie działa skupiając ludzi zafascynowanych fotografią.

Mamy profesjonalną stonę internetową www.dundalk. pl Bierzemy udział w festiwalach kultur i konferencjach, współpracujemy z lokalnymi władzami i politykami, mediami w tym Radiem Dundalk FM. Wzieliśmy także udział w programie telewizyjnym, Consumer, który już maju będzie emitowany na RTE. Do Shamrock Pub zawitały polskie wieczory klubowe, z polską muzyką i polskim piwem; w każdy ostatni piątek miesiąca. W ślad za Shamrockiem Daniel Ciepliński zapoczątkował cykl imprez polskich, roboczo nazywanych przeze mnie nocami koncertowymi, ponieważ często imprezy te odbywają się do muzyki na żywo, a grają główie polskie bandy: Wildrose, Episode 6 i Last Revival. Cyklicznie już odbywają sie Mikołajki, na początku grudnia. W zeszłym roku olbrzymim sukcesem organizacji były Dni Polskie, w tym roku po raz pierwszy Polonia zaprezentowała sie na paradzie Świętego Patryka. Otrzymaliśmy I nagrodę za prezentacje międzynarodową. Mamy tez na koncie kilka drobniejszych imprez, wystaw, koncertów, pomoc w WOŚP, w Dublinie. W planach Klub Młodych Mam i warsztaty rękodzieła dla najmłodszych.

Dziekujemy Wam wszystkim za wsparcie, ciepłe slowa, pozytywną energię i pomoc.

Agnieszka Boniewicz

Cuts beginning to affect many local schools

By Niamh Kirk

Plans for Dundalk Tain events Preparations for Dundalk’s Tain 2012 are well under way with the events starting with the arrival of the historic Táin March on Saturday June 9th, followed by nine days of events including family entertainment, open air concerts and, of course, the eagerly awaited Euro 2012 matches on the big screen at the Market Square.

Táin Committee Chairperson, Tim Mullins said that a tremendous of work has gone into this year’s Táin March

which leaves Ardee on Friday June 8th making its way to Knockbridge before starting off the following morning and making its way to Dundalk en route to Carlingford.

The Táin Committee are currently finalising a programme of events to take place from Saturday June 9 through to Monday June 18, as Town Centre Commercial Manager, Andrew Mawhinney explained.

“It’s fantastic to have the

refurbished Market Square available as it opens up so many possibilities. We are planning a great programme of open air concerts and amusements and as promised many months ago we will be showing Ireland’s Euro 2012 matches on the big screen at the Market Square where all the family can come along and cheer on Ireland.” “ Thanks to the sponsorship from Prometric we can put on a fantastic programme of events for everyone to enjoy.”

Cutting subjects, increasing class sizes and reduction of one-to one tuition are all a possibility for the next academic year according to Louth County VEC as they face up to the stark reality of cuts in funding.

Government cuts in the education sector are starting to sting and the education authority is starting to feel the impact of the changes to schools allocation of teachers introduced in the Budget.

The picture is not pretty according to Dr Pádraig Kirk who revealed that while the Budget left the overall pupil-teacher ratio in schools untouched, it did introduce a raft of changes in other areas that affect the overall allocation of teachers to schools.

These include removing the ring-fenced allocation for guidance in schools, the phasing out of pre-DEIS teachers, reductions in allocations aimed at minority groups

11

and a realignment of allocations for special needs and English as an additional language.

This has resulted in the actual reduction of up to 20 teachers, but, with the prospect of enrolment figures increasing again next year, Dr Kirk is hopeful.

“While it is not guaranteed, we are quietly confident that through the various appeal routes we will claim back a substantial amount of this reduction.”

Any further reductions, the VEC say, would have a devastating impact on schools in the area.

Dr Kirk outlined the areas where the schools may have to make cuts.

“The options are stark and include removing minority subjects from the curriculum, cutting courses, increasing class sizes, reducing the amount of individual oneto-one tuition in the area of resource and special needs and timetabling teachers to maximum allowed hours”.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Man tried to intimidate witness three times A man who allegedly three times intimidated another man who was a witness in a case against him appeared back before the local court on Wednesday last.

Oghenero Mcjyn with an address at 44, Drive 2, Muirhevnamor but stated to be residing at 597, Ashling Park denied three separate charges of intimidation, but was convicted following the hearing of the evidence.

The 48 year-old was remanded on continuing bail until August 23 with Judge William Hamill seeking both a probation and com-

munity service report on him.

The court heard that he allegedly threatened to “deal with” the witness twice on the day of the previous court hearing on September 7 last outside the courthouse and on the street at Crowe Street.

He approached him first as the court recessed for lunch and after the case and he had given evidence.

Two days later he was walking near his house when the defendant drove past and turned and gave him a two fingered gesture. He said he felt intimidated.

Louth County Libraries have announced their schedule of events to celebrate Bealtaine 2012.

The Bealtaine Festival, celebrates creativity as we age and over 120,000 people across the country now take part in Bealtaine.

This year’s Bealtaine Festival theme is ‘What kind of old do you want to be?’ and Dundalk Branch library has a varied selection of events planned to suit all interests and talents. These include: ‘Spirit of the Titanic’, a talk by author Nicola Pierce on the sinking of the Titanic on May 4 at 11am; ‘Makeover Magic & What Not to Wear’ on May 9 at 11am;

Calligraphy Workshop on May 10 at 11am; Mobile Phone Classes on May 10 and 11 at 2.30pm; Chair Yoga & Relaxation on May 11 at 11am; Radio Documentary Workshop with Dundalk FM on May 16 at 11am; Introduction to Digital Photography on May 15 to May 18 at 2.30pm each day; Bealtaine Table Quiz in conjunction with Dundalk Europe Direct Centre on May 24 at 2.30pm Numbers are strictly limited for most events so please book a place as soon as possible.

Tel. Dundalk Library at 9353190; Email: libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie; www.louthcoco.ie

‘Living it Lively’ at Louth libraries

Good news for No 32 restaurant

A Dundalk restaurant was celebrating following the Leinster Regional Final for the Restaurant Awards 2012 in The Westin Hotel, Tuesday April 16. No 32, Chapel Street, scooped the Customer Service prize for Louth and will now go on to compete for the regional and AllIreland titles.

The defendant said this incident didn’t happen and he didn’t threaten the complainant in the two other instances.

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

13 Organisers of the Patsy Kelly 5K, Clan na Gael and North East Runners, present a cheque to the Simon Community from the proceeds of the event. Pictured from left are, John Kenwright, Maurice Harrison, Paul Gray, Neil Mulligan (Simon Community), Jim Gonnelly; Albert McGuirk, Aidan Kirk, Pat McGuirk and Noel Litchfield.

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Over to you Sinn Fein are now the second most popular party in the country.

Do you think Gerry Adams can ever be Taoiseach?

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

News

in Brief Separated Parents

Paddy Craven Personally I wouldn’t like to see that happen. I don’t think it will as he’s got too much baggage from the past.

Alice Breen

Dominic Keating

Sean Bell

I don’t think so. What difference can he make if he got in? I don’t see him being able to make any more difference than who we have in there already.

I don’t think it will happen anytime soon. People are angry with the government at the moment but I believe it will settle down and inn Fein will drop down the pecking order again.

I think he could eventually get the job. They said DeValera wouldn’t get in and then FF adopted constitutional politics and he did get in. Sinn Fein are doing something similar I feel.

PayPal vice-president Claire’s solo effort lands visits Dundalk Melbourne Rose title DkIT President Denis Cummins met with PayPal’s Vice President for Global Operations Louise Phelan on Friday, to discuss ways to build partnerships between the Institute and global multinational payments company which is opening a new base of operations in Dundalk in the coming months.

Since the announcement in February that PayPal will be creating 1000 new jobs in Dundalk over the next four years, Mr Cummins has been in talks with staff to consider the ways that DkIT students and graduates can be best prepared to compete for the coveted positions.

Ms Phelan outlined the skills PayPal would be looking for in new employees, placing an emphasis on the need for good language skills, particularly German, French or Russian. The possibility of graduate programmes and flexible working hours for students were also discussed.

Continued from Page 1 shorts and runners”, continued Deirdre.

It certainly had the desired effect as the former Stabannon primary school and Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, student, scooped the title to the delight of her family and friends.

“We are all really delighted and ever since the news came through there have been people ringing and sending messages to congratulate us. We are really proud of her and there is a great buzz around the area.

“Just before the result was announced, Claire’s boyfriend, Niall, rang us so we were able to hear it live and we were just thrilled”, Deirdre added.

Deirdre, along with parents Peter and Bernie, are already planning to travel to Portlaoise for the regional fi-

Cllr Louis McIntyre He possibly could get it by default if you like. People are disillusioned and they could well vote Sinn Fein into power as a protest vote.

Art exhibition in County Museum

The North Louth Artists Exhibition opens on Thursday May 3 and will run until Saturday May 12 in the County Museum.

Following on from the success of the 2011 event, this year’s exhibition promises to be just as wonderful, with a rich display of colour, style and subject matter that is synonomous with this annual show.

Paintings in oils, acrylics, watercolours and egg tempera in styles ranging from photo realist to abstract will be included, along with bronze, copper and ceramic sculpture.

Claire Lynch All members will exhibit this year along with nal and hope to be Tralee in August.

“We have been planning a trip out to three guest artists – Ronan Halpin, Theo Oakley see her so it is going to be great to catch and John Behan. John recently held a very up with her and hopefully she will be successful exhibition based on the “Tain” in the Basement Gallery. back in August”, added Deirdre.

“Parents Separated Support Group” meeting dates.

The next Tuesday meetings of Parents Separated Support Group take place on: May 1, May 15 and May 29.

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

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

DkIT Gets An A+

DkIT was among five third level institutions given an A+ in the most recent Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).survey.

Third Level institiuations were praised for their attention to cleanliness.

Saying that hospitals and trains stations should look to them to inspire efforts to match their spruceness.

The IT’s report card read ‘Exceptionally clean and well presented’.

Confirmation Day in St Patricks

Joanne and Andrew Brodigan with sons Ciaran and Jack

Sophie Farrell and Teresa Egan

Back: Rosie O’Reilly with Benedicta and Paddy Mc Ardle; front: Roisin Murphy and Isabelle and Caroline Mc Ardle

Bridget, Roisin and Joe Murphy

an Deirdre, Eleanor and Michael Curr

Comfort, Georgina, Michelle, Juliana and William Opoku

Lisa and Stephen Quigley with son Keane

with Chloe and Lindsey Tracy Quigley and Louise Moran

Quigley

Cailum and Eamon Doherty

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Vantastival is the place to be this weekend

Bellurgan Park is gearing up for a weekend of festivities that have become a spring staple. Vantastival kicks off this Friday night with a stunning line up of Ireland’s finest signed and unsigned act.

As well as bringing together some of the nations more celebrated musicians from Cathy Davey and God is an Astronaut and Ham Sandwich the festival’s organisers have always kept a keen eye on the unsigned and independent artists. The festival promises to host some of the future stars of the Irish music industry as the eclectic line up and boasts some of the hardest working and talented up and coming acts the country has to offer.

The location of the festival is apt as it blends seamlessly with the north east’s vibrant live music scene.

Many locally based acts have been billed on the main stages including Jinx Lennon who impressed at his last performance at the festival in its debut year. SJ McArdle, I’d Fight Gandhi, The Trampz, Third Smoke, Redtwelve and many more will be taking to one of the festivals three stages over the weekends.

With the new location in Bellurgan Park some things have been lost, others adapted and improved. The Lock-up stage which hosts more than 20 different bands and DJ’s from the area makes a welcome return. The stage has been a feature of

Jinx Lennon

the festival from its inception and has offered a platform for DJ’s and musicians to perform in a more intimate yet vibrant environment.

With the demise of Oxegen coming in conjunction with the explosion of bespoke music festivals Irish revellers are increasingly looking for a more personal and more focused experience. Luckily Vantastival has tapped into the pervasive love for live music in the area and celebrates it in a family friendly and spirited way. The site will open at 2pm on Friday and will have a box office open from 10.30am to 11pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

More trophies for Ardee bands

The Ardee Concert Youth Band in Cork

On Saturday April 14 a large contingent from Ardee witnessed a great musical feat for the town.

The members of Ardee Concert Youth Band entered section four (junior section for concert bands) of the National

Band Championships conducted by senior band member John Gaynor.

The group range in age from eleven to fourteen and some of them have only been in the youth band since September last. They performed “Best

of Queen” by Paul Murhta as their own choice piece and for a test piece they played “Lift off” by Peter Meechan.

There were many proud committee members, senior band members and most of all parents in the audience to cheer them on. They had some stiff competition as some of the bands although of a similar standard had a much higher age profile. Banna Chluain Meala from Clonmel came first in this section and Midleton Concert Band was third.

Later on that same day, the senior band competed in section two concert conducted by Harry Kelly. They performed “Alvamar Overature” by James Barnes as their own choice and their test piece was Bermuda Triangle written by the adjudicator for the weekend Adam Gorb.

Harry was very pleased with the band’s performance of both pieces. The band retained their second place from last year.

Introducing Pat and Dave who are taking part the in the forthcoming ‘Strictly Come Irish Dancing’ event to be held in the Fairways Hotel, 12th May. The pressure is building as the night gets closer and all 15 couples are working harder than ever to make sure this will be a night of spectacular entertainment.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Slow uptake in Louth for household charge

By Niamh Kirk

Recent figures show that Co Louth is among the most defiant countys as only 34.5% of households have paid the household charge.

As of last week, Co Louth had the fifth worst compliance rate with the Household charge. According to

the figures Co Louth is below the national average of 43.3% of liable homes having paid up.

It is estimated that there are 41, 176 homes in Co Louth expected to pay the charge (exclusive of wavers), data collected on Tuesday April 24 showed that only 14,222 registrations have been proc-

essed for payment in the county.

The figures did not include postal registration or local authority over the counter registrations as they are not yet processed and figures would be inaccurate.

Failure to pay the charge incurs a fine which increased by €1 this week – the charge

Family Notices

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

Anniversary

now standing at €112.

By October those who have not paid will face a doubling of the fine, to €20 as well as haveing to pay the €7 interest accrued over the months. If a household has not been paid for by April 2013 the charge increase to €144 inclusive of fines and interest.

Students raise funds A group of students from Dundalk Institute of Technology have raised €1,600 for St. Michael’s House charity.

The students sold Butlers chocolate truffle eggs during the Leinster Heinken Cup Quarter Final in the Aviva Stadium on Saturday April 7.

These vital funds will go towards St Michael’s House Tag Rugby team who will be travelling to Bristol to compete in this year’s International Tag Rugby tournament on May 26.

Former Leinster player Bernard Head of Fundraising for St. Michael’s House, Barbara Wiseman, receiving the Jackman lined out to support cheque of €1,600 from DkIT students (from left) Ciara Peers, Emer Mulligan and the students in aid of St Michael’s House.

Jane O’Brien.

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 eaweek from €5 Telephone Dundalk Leader 042 9320888 Double Room to rent. Bay Estate, Dundalk. Sharing house with one other person.

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Tel 086-1901037 Three bedroom house to rent.

Muirhevnamor area. All mod cons. Rent allowance accepted. Contact 087-2613397 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 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 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 086-2052108 Illustrative Tile Making at Bridge Street Studios, Thurs 7.30pm - 9.30pm. 4 Weekly Classes 17 May - 7 June. Express yourself in clay and produce beautiful relief tiles for wall mounting or framing. Fee €80.

To book call Sarah 086-3499195 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 087-6660094. 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 0868778361.

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 Digital H.D., Sales, service, repairs. Eamonn Cooney TV. 7 Distillery Lane.087-267-1809 / 0429331348 Weddings 2012 Special at Peter Hughes Photography, Professional Wedding Photography, full coverage of wedding and 26 page picture story book album total price €750

Cuthbert (Kenneth) 15th Anniversary In memory of Ken, Late of 2 Pearse Park, Point Road and Sheffield.

(Aged only 46) “Thy will be done”..

From your brother Eric (Pearse Park).

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

phone 042 9333732 mob 087 2561161 CARPENTER AVAILABLE 25 years experience. All interio, 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 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.wowweddings.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. No job too big or small. Attention to detail guaranteed. 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 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.

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 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. 0894617083 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.

Lady (Irish) available to do ironing in own home. €10 per hour. €12 inc collection. Also, cleaning €10 per hour. Tel 086-2281099 HANDYMAN SERVICES For all your domestic jobs. Painting/Decorating/Flooring/Building/Plastering etc. Phone Brian 0872952529 CHILDRENS ENTERTAINMENT Magician and Balloon Modeller available for all parties. Contact Odenni. 0429372455 or 087-2473342.

SITUATIONS VACANT Representatives required For natural Health company. Flexible hours. Full or Part time. Contact Regina 085-7053834 Got a passion for baking? Experienced chef looking for a partner to set up a home based cupcake business. 0872748357 PLANNING NOTICES Dundalk Town Council We , Mr. & Mrs. T. Clarke, intend to apply for full planning permission for Alterations to an Existing Two Storey Dwelling to Include for Single storey Extensions to the Front, Side & Rear with all Associated Site Development

Works at 02 Priorland Grove, Dundalk.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

C/o B. Dowdall - Architect – Designarc, 04 Shorts Court, 71 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk.

Tel. (042) 9360904; (087) 6657148; E-mail info@designarc.ie Dundalk Town Council I, P. Mc Enaeney, intend to apply for full planning permission for Extensions and Alterations to my existing Dwelling to include for Two storey Extensions to the front, side and a single storey extension to the rear, a domestic garage to the rear garden with all Associated Site works at 200 Ard Easmuin, Dundalk.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

C/o B. Dowdall - Architect – Designarc, 04 Shorts Court, 71 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk.

Tel. (042) 9360904; (087) 6657148; E-mail info@designarc.ie

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Appliances

Blinds

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Bathrooms

Blinds

Couriers

Electrical

Builder

Gardening

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Gardening

Gravel

Gardening

Sliding Wardrobes

Locksmiths

Skips

Gardening

Patios & Paving

Top Soil

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Walk with John Murray on Cooley Mountains TV / Satelite

Carlingford on The Cooley Peninsula in County Louth are delighted to welcome the John Murray Walking Club to the Slieve Foy Mountain on Sunday May. The RTE broadcaster who has got the nation walking all over Ireland is visiting the North East next. Selected from over 30 entries, Slieve Foy mountain overlooking the medieval town of Car-

lingford will be the venue for his next programme. The broadcaster is very excited about visiting the area as the Cooley Mountains which is situated directly across from the majestic Mountains of Mourne is rapidly becoming a popular walker’s destination.

The biggest gathering took place earlier this year in Clonakilty in Co Cork where 1500 peo-

ple turned out to walk with the RTE radio show.

“We would really like to beat the highest gathering number and are asking everyone across the region to come out in support and make the event a memorable one. It is a unique opportunity to showcase this destination nationally. We are also looking for people with unusual stories

to come forward for selection for the programme”, said Frances Taylor, Carlingford and Mourne Region.

People are asked to gather at the Village Green from 11.00am in the morning and are advised to wear sensible footwear and take a bottle of water with them. The walkers are requested to observe the Leave No Trace guidelines.

Kickboxers win again

Windows

A number of local kickboxers travelled to the Irish National Championships in Dublin and once again had a very successful day.

Darren O’Donogh MAS-F’s youngest National competitor had a fantastic days competing. Starting off his day he battled against the Munster Champion in the Younger Cadets Weapons section. Darren secured his first position on the Irish Team with a well earned No.2 ranked Silver medal. Next for Darren was the Musical Forms Division where he has always excelled and this year was no different.

Darren secured the 2012 Irish National Title for Forms a No. 1 ranking, with an array of extreme trick-kicks and a second position on the National Team. He took to the fighting arena after this and into the continous sparring division where with a split decision he accepted his final medal of the day, the Bronze.

Chantelle Mc Cabe’s first outing in the Nationals was in open hand Forms where she met 2 champions from Waterford. After a fantastic performance it was realised that there was a minor timing error which cost her a full point from each judge and with that unfortunately the National Title, awarding Chantelle a Bronze

Chief Instructor Wayne Rutherford, Coach Fidelma Martin, with MAS-F Cadets Darren O’Donogh, Tomás Flanagan, Monique Martin and Chantelle Mc Cabe.

medal for her first medal of the day, giving her a rank of No.3 in Ireland.

Next up was the Older Cadets Weapons section where our Leinster Champion performed diligently and with ease beating her Munster opponent to secure her second Bronze medal of the day.

Monique Martin took to the floor in the Older Cadets Weapons division also, up against the winners from the Leinster, Munster and Ulster regional championships. Impressing the judges with her skill and manipulation however succumbing to the

same fatal error from the Regionals, Monique took home a well earned Silver medal and a ranking of No. 2 in Ireland giving her a position on the National Kickboxing Team.

Tomás Flanagan after a thrilling Leinster final entered his first National competition. Dominating his semi-final against Connaught he entered the final with great determination. Even after suffering an injury to his knee in the second round he fought on and proudly gained a Silver medal, No. 2 ranking and a position on the National Team.

Spring Clean Residents from Clontygora Court who took part in the recent Spring Clean on the estate

Photo exhibitions in DkIT Library The library in Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is currently the venue for two photo exhibitions.

The first, ‘Alternative perspectives: life in East Africa’, is a collection by former DkIT student Paul McKeown.

Taken while travelling with the Development Perspectives education organisation, these images describe Paul’s experience of life in Uganda and Tanzania. The exhibition will run in the library’s Anaverna room until mid-May. DkIT Photo Society’s end of year exhibition ‘From Dusk Til Dawn’ is being held in the library until mid-June.

The society is composed of students from around the world, leading to a wide range of views and styles on display. Images are spread across various rooms and spaces in the library and the Photo Society are offering the option to purchase any that catch your eye.

Members of the public are free to visit DkIT Library at any time throughout the year, or contact 042 9370310 to ask about becoming a member.

Archive displays in Town Hall Louth County Archives Service has placed on display in the Reception areas of Dundalk Town Hall and Louth Co Hall a selection of archives that showcase the County’s archival heritage.

The display in Dundalk Town Hall features a selection of documents from the SS “Dundalk” Disaster Fund collection which contains correspondence with the bereft and between the trustees of the Fund, receipts, and statements of accounts. The SS “Dundalk” was sunk by a Ger-

man submarine on October 14, 1918 on a voyage from Liverpool to Dundalk.

The Louth Co Hall exhibit contains a tillage register and a fertiliser scheme register which were created under the Compulsory Tillage Order, 1940 to 1948, by government inspectors from the Department of Agriculture as a result of the tillage and fertiliser schemes running in the 1940s–1960s.

The Compulsory Tillage Order, introduced by Minister Seán Lemass during the war

years meant that all farmers had to till a certain amount of land and sow a certain acreage of wheat. Initially the compulsory tillage order quota was set at 12.5 per cent of arable land on holdings larger than ten acres; however, this was raised to 20 per cent.

The aim of the archival displays is to raise public awareness of our archival heritage and inform people on the availability of various archive collections held in the County Archives. You can search for

what is held by the County Archives on the Online Archive Catalogue available at www. louthcoco.ie.

If you wish to view other collections in the Research Room of the County Archives, please make an appointment by telephoning 042-9339387 or by emailing archive@louthcoco.ie.

The organisers are also interested to hear from anyone who may have archive collections relating to the development of the County that they would like to donate to the Archives Service.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012

QASHQAI THE TOPS

The Nissan Qashqai has been voted ‘Used Car of the Year’ for the 2nd year running

by CAP – the UK’s independent benchmark used car pricing experts.

A panel of judges comprising of used car market and vehicle valuation experts at CAP chose the Qashqai from a shortlist of 6 models. Points were awarded by the judging panel based on CAP’s criteria of excellence in the following areas;

• Affordability and practicality of ownership • Trusted reputation • Retail popularity • Innovative impact on motor industry Unlike other car awards, the CAP Used Car of the Year is designed to acknowledge all-round excellence from the perspective of everyone touched by the vehicle, including private owners, company car drivers, fleet operators and even used car dealers themselves.

The Nissan Qashqai scores highly in every area of CAP’s judging criteria and delivers significant benefits to owners and drivers.

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Dundalk Leader 2nd May 2012