09-05-2012

18,000 COPIES WEEKLY Euro 2012 in Market Square

Duke Special to play Dundalk

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Page 17

Vantastic weekend in photos Page 6 & 21

Wednesday, 9th May, 2012. Vol. 5, Issue 19 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

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

Vantastival weekend proves a huge success This Bank Holiday weekend saw Co Louth help kickoff festival season as music lovers and campervan enthusiasts flocked to Vantastival. The festival, now in its third year, adapted seamlessly to the new venue at Bellurgan Park.

The scenery provided by the lush surrounding of Tippings Wood as well as the inspired use of the estates natural features amplified the festivals relaxed and cheerful atmosphere.

A truly family friendly festival, families barbequed, sang, danced and celebrated the start of Summer with a lavish backdrop behind them and the vibrant tents and stages that make up a festival landscape in-front.

The festival got under way on Friday evening with indie rockers Ham Sandwich headlining as well as Dundalk’s own I’d Fight Gandhi

New cycle lanes causing concern for local retail businesses

Monika Napora McGee with Carla and Alan McGee

and The Trampz taking to the main stage too. After impressing on the Lock Up stage in previous years, The Trampz made the leap to the festivals main stage and have surely cemented their reputation as one of the country’s most interesting

and entertaining performers.

The second performance of the weekend on the Lock-Up stage saw crowds happy to gather and dance within earshot of the much esteemed funk-fuelled eight-piece.

As the sweet sound of Cathy Davey permeated the

main stage on Saturday night, Jinx Lennon took to the sensational Val Halla stage. Lovingly handcrafted, walking into the festivals second stage was akin to walking aboard an ancient boat, it was truly a sight to behold.

Continued on Page 2

The aim is to make Dundalk one of the ‘most people-friendly urban centres’ in Ireland but the process of getting there is generating a great deal of animosity from local business owners and road users toward the local authorities in charge of the project.

As works for the Go Dundalk Project continue, the relationship between local business and the local authorities is once again in the spotlight as they struggle to retain amenities that are vital to their trade.

The Council have been accused of treating the concerns of local businesses dismissively as works on the town centre cycle lanes got underway. The works that have caused havoc for road users and retailers alike but in the meantime the officials in DTC have remained resolute.

This week local residents have set up a Facebook page to allow for Continued on Page 2

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Retailers face challenges when cycle lanes are complete Continued from Page 1

people to air their views on the cycle lanes. The originators of the Review Dundalk Cycle Lanes group say “The Council can not ignore the people of this great town.”

The difficulties faced by customers in Jocelyn St last week gave businesses an insight into the problems they will encounter when the works are completed.

“We made submissions that were not heeded at the time and we wrote to the Town Clerk’s office recently and the local councillors, but only one got back to us. It is very frustrating. Customers cannot get to the shop with the works going on but when it is completed they will not be able to park close to us, most of our customers are not in the full of their health and it is difficult for them to have to walk the distance from where they have to park” said Joanna McGahon from the Jocelyn pharmacy.

Many problems with the works that were highlighted by retailers at the planning stage are now more acute

and they are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of engagement from the local authorities on the matter.

Frank McGahon an architect operating from Jocelyn Street and a cyclist described the project as‘misguided’.“It’s like a solution in search of a problem.

There was no groundswell of public support for this; it is being driven by a minority without any popular support. They made the information available, but not very accessable.

This was not like the makeover of the Square where we knew exactly what we were getting.”

Mr McGahon, among others, called for a pause to the works or a review to be done before it is completed.

Caroline Middleton noted “We are not in the town’s retail centre, we are a destination shop, our passing trade is car trade, it is people pulling up and calling in. Everything is down by half if not more since this work started. When it’s done, the car trade is going to be reduced.

We won’t pick up again, customer feedback about it is bad - the businesses in this area were just not thought of.”

Growing increasingly annoyed

with the local authorities she said “they won’t communicate with us. We don’t know what they are doing or why they are doing it - but they don’t care.”

There were also calls for compensation from the council from another business owner for a reduction in the rates

they pay considering the damage that has been done to businesses operating in the area. One business owner commented “I’m fed up, fed up with not being cared about or thought about by the local authorities.”

In an independent review of

the system conducted last year and submitted to the Council before work commenced, displays an alternative route for the cycle lanes that would cause reduced damage to businesses in the area, particularly those most affected.

It also noted that one business

had paid a levy for car parking spaces which the report found to have been ‘effectively taken away.’ by the new lanes.

We had attempted to contact the relevant people in Dundalk Town Council, however, recieved no response by the time of publication. However

Junior Minister for Transport visits Stapleton Place

Alan Kelly TD, Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Transport & Sport, visited Stapleton Place yesterday morning in an attempt to resolve safety issues which have been brought up by residents following recent works on the street.

The area of Stapleton Place was completely rearranged to facilitate the installation of a double cycle way lane which prior to the cycle lanes facilitated two lanes of traffic.

There was widespread anger from residents due to the lack of consultation from Dundalk Town Council regarding the project and following an invitation from Senator Mary Moran, Alan Kelly TD was invited to inspect the road yesterday morning.

Speaking to residents, Mr Kelly stated that the newly installed cycle lanes were ‘certainly a

Minister for State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Alan Kelly TD, visiting Dundalk to see the work on cycle lanes in Stapelton Place

different way of doing things’ “These kind of works need to be done in a way that is conducive to everybody. I will be sending somebody from my office to inspect this area in the near future and we will look at any issues that arise from his report.” stated the Labour Minister.

“Thank you for inviting me here today to have a look at the street and it has been great to meet up

with the residents and hear their issues. I must admit that I’m disappointed that Dundalk Town Council chose not to send any representative here today.”

Cllr Maria Doyle who has been working with the residents of Stapleton Place since the roadworks began said she was disappointed with Dundalk Town Council’s response to the issue and said residents felt they’d been stonewalled by council planners.

Shauna Lee Lynch, Claire O’Hagan and Aisling Madden

Vantastival weekend a huge success

Continued from Page 1 The invigorating scent of the woodchip floor and the open oval roof - a frame for the stars above - enhanced every performance that took place there over the three days. In his distinctive style, Jinx’s one man show captivated a huge audience

in this unique venue.

The sun made its longest lasting appearance on Sunday as the weekend ‘super-moon’ rose, so too did the excitement for the festivals headline act God is an Astronaut. The tightly packed main stage was a hub of energy as the renowned instrumentalists played a gutsy

set. The sheltered Lock –Up stage which hosted many of Dundalk’s finest DJ’s and bands kept revellers entertained late into the night amid the rustic charm of an old Irish courtyard.

The annual headcount of bespoke music festivals is on the upand with the absence of Oxygen from this year’s festival calendar many of these smaller festivals will benefit from the fall out. Following the much deserved success of the past three years Vantasitval will hopefully launch festival season in similar style next May.

Dundalk Town Council Chair Marianne Butler did take on the issue noting that all necessary steps in when implementing the project were taken and following some submissions, changes were made to the original plans to accommodate the retailers concerns.

She spoke of the difficulties when seeking to change peoples behaviour and commuting habits and appealed for people to “wait and judge it when it is done”as the real test will come when the schools return in September.

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

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Tea Party for Alzheimer’s Society

Cllr Morgan welcomes re-opening of tourist office Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Dundalk Town Council’s decision to reopen the tourist office in the TCCM building on Market Square has been welcomed

by Cllr Oliver Morgan.

Cllr Morgan expressed satisfaction that his call on our Town Council Management to reopen Dundalk’s tourist office at least for the summer season, has been implemented, hopefully permanently. myhomecare.ie hold successful Tea Party for the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.

“This has come as a very From left: Maeve Montgomery, Co-ordinator, Louth Alzheimer’s Society’s; Natalie pleasant surprise to me.” he Clarke, myhomecare.ie Manager and Carol Ann Murphy, Servisource Training Costated. All that I had been hopordinator.

ing for was the reopening of the tourist information office beside the library but we will now have the tourist office back at its optimum location, in our newly revamped Market Square.

“I understand that footfall in the new town square is increasing steadily and I have the utmost confidence that having the Town Centre Commercial Manager (TCCM) there in the same building (which was originally provided as the town’s tourist office) will be a big help to

growing our tourism product and turnover.

“It is accepted that there are some quite serious teething problems with the new town square, not least with accessibility for our physically impaired folk, but given good will by all concerned parties, a satisfactory solution should be achieved.

“It is unfortunate that the extended budget of over €3,000,000 did not extend to finishing the town square project, with no upgrade to the

tourist office/TCCM building and no provision of the giant TV screen but possibly some funding will be found going forward and we may, hopefully, yet see our town square completed.”

Councillor Morgan finished by paying tribute to the sterling endeavours of the Town Centre Commercial Manager (TCCM), Mr. Andrew Mawhinney and his staff and urged them to continue their good work by assisting, guiding and liaising with the new tourist office staff.

A Dundalk woman who crashed her SUV into a building killing her niece and nephew has been given a three and a half year suspended sentence.

Vera Murden with an address at Fatima Court, Dundalk, was found guilty after a five-day trial for dangerous driving causing the deaths of Jenna, aged four, and her brother Jayden, aged one, on 31 January 2009.

The trial heard that the children were fatally injured when the vehicle driven by Vera Murden crashed into the wall of a former pub at the junction of Maxwell Row and the Newry Rd. bridge in Dundalk at 4pm on Saturday, January 31st, 2009.

She had tried to take a right hand turn when the vehicle went out of control and crashed. The court had been told that there were five

children including the son of the accused in the rear of the SUV and none of them had been wearing seatbelts.

Judge Michael O’Shea said it was “an extremely tragic case and indicated that he had imposed a suspended sentence for Vera Murden partly because of the attitude of her sister Denise who had pleaded with the court not to issue a custodial sentence.

He said she has expressed

genuine remorse and “must live with the effects of the accident for the rest of her life.”

He said the loss to the parents of their children was “incalculable,” and they were “extraordinary, caring and forgiving people.”

He imposed a three-anda-half-year jail term, which he suspended on Murden entering into a good behaviour bond for four years.

Judge imposes suspended sentence for Vera Murden

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Senator Mary Moran’s first year in The Seanad Protect

It’s almost a year since Mary Moran received the phone call that would turn her world upside down and lead her to venture down the political path.

On the other end of the phone was Labour leader Eamonn Gilmore and during the course of their conversation he would inform a dumbstruck Mary that she’d been appointed to the Seanad.

“When I started my campaign for the Senate, I hadn’t expected to get it. I was just thrilled to get a nomination from inclusion Ireland. That in itself was an honour for me.”explains Mary.

“Then on the 20th May I was in class in St Vincent’s when I got a phone call from Eamonn Gilmore to tell me I’d been appointed to the Seanad. I couldn’t believe it to be honest but i was extremely excited about the challenges that lay ahead” “Just before we went in to the Seanad we had a group photograph taken on

rne’s y B l u a P

Senator Mary Moran

the plinth and I was standing with the kids when someone called me over to the side. I immediately went running over and to my eternal embarrassment I fell over the plinth onto the ground and I just couldn’t get up.

Damien. Parents to five children, the Moran’s are currently bracing themselves for a hectic couple of months with Saibh preparing to sit her LeavIng Certificate and Dearbhla studying hard for her Junior Cert.

Mary is no stranger to school exams having spent almost thirty years as a teacher in Monaghan and Dundalk.

“I always wanted to be “It turned out I’d a music teacher when I torn ligaments in my was growing up.” says ankle and I ended up Mary. “I love music and being carted away in a I did music, English wheelchair which left and philosophy in UCD me mortified.” laughs because I thought Mary. that there would be Originally from a better prospect of Blackrock, Mary now getting a job having lives in Haggardstown more teaching subjects. I did a degree with her husband

on Mary Moran and Diploma in UCD.” she adds.

“I taught in Monaghan town for seventeen years as well as a year in Carrick. Then I took a career break after my youngest Cillian was born and after that I taught in the Louis for two years and then St Vincent’s for ten years.

“My son Cillian has special needs and I would have been campaigning quite a lot for disability issues.

Just trying to do the best for people with disabilities around the area. “ It was put to me last year that I should stand for election so I kind of decided that as I knew a lot of people on the ground and I know what

issues from the point of view of education and disability so that’s how I ended up going up for election.” she explains.

“It was more to highlight the disability issues and to raise awareness. That’s kind of what prompted me to go into it.

“I got four and a half thousand first preference votes and that gave me great heart. I thoroughly enjoyed the canvassing aspect of it all. It was like a bug.

It was great meeting different people and getting an insight into their concerns and anxieties.

“The last year has been an amazing learning curve and probably one of the best things that I ever did. Away from the politics I love going to the gym and swimming and going for walks with the kids.

But I’ve found over the last year that it’s a struggle to find time to do all of that. The big thing at the minute is making buns and just spending quality time with the family.”

Rockmarshall campaign appeal for donations

The Protect Rockmarshall Mountain campaign group are appealing for donations from the public as they continue to battle energy company Gaelectric’s over the building of five wind turbines on the mountain side.

Gaelectric recently had their planning application for the five wind turbines and supporting building turned down by Louth County Council and has since lodged a detailed appeal to An Bord Pleanala.

In the appeal the company say that the location on the Rockmarshall Mountain is ideal and that they are the strongest candidate to assist Louth County reach is green energy target by 2015.

With respect to this the Protect Rockmarshall Mountain group hope to lodge a detailed observation to the board by the deadline date of May 21. The group have also commissioned three independent experts to examine the ‘critical elements of Gaelectric’s submission.’ An Bord Pleanala who will assess Gaelectric’s original application and their subsequent submissions afresh. They will not be bound by Louth County Council’s decision.

The group say that this round in their bought with Gaelectric will cost them more than €8,000 and so they are seeking contributions towards the campaign funds. Donations can be made in person or by post to: Andrew Wiseman, Wiseman Solicitors, 60 Anne Street, Dundalk. Alternatively, they say you can email them at protectrockmarshall@gmail. com and a member will arrange to meet with you.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Pictures from Vantasival 2012

Ruby Higgins, Clara Mullen, Shannon Higgins and Naoishe Mullen

Tiernan, Killian, Jamie and Doireann Hynes enjoying their ice cream at Vantastival

Seamus and Teresa Mc Guinness

Jack Mc Donald and Codi Austin

Monika Napora McGee with Carla and Alan McGee

Mick Jones, Pauric Ryan and David Noone

Saen Haechler, Jonny Moneley, Hugh Donlon, Joe O’Connor and Niall Clarke

A kids singalong at the Kids Zone in Vantastival

Marie Ryan, Jack Mc Donald, Codi Austin, Phil Ahern, Claire Maguire and Megan Gibbs

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Special auction to help Jamie A special auction will take place on Saturday May 12 with proceeds going to help a local boy who was born with a severe disability.

A local artist, Michael McKeown, has very kindly donated a painting featuring the ‘Battle of Faughard’ October 1318, which will be auctioned at the Cosceol ‘Strictly Come Irish Dancing’ in the Fairways Hotel.

All proceeds from the auction will go to help, Jamie Halpenny, from Ardee, who was born with spinal muscular atrophy, a disease that causes muscle weak-

Jamie is an extremely happy and affectionate boy, and loves to watch his favourite programmes, ‘Fireman Sam’ and ‘In the Night Garden’ on TV. Jamie’s parents, Anne and Trevor, had to build an extension to accommodate their only son’s needs, his bedroom alone resembles an ICU unit, and the family hope to raise some money to help improve the quality of Jamie’s life.

Anyone interested in Fundraiser for Jamie Halpenny, Ardee takes place May 12 helping to support this ness and several related tremely limited speech, very worthy cause can medical conditions. and requires 24 hour contact Margaret on Jamie is confined to a care.

087-9039662. wheelchair and has exDespite his condition,

Don’t miss out on Euro 2012 because of measles Local football fans travelling to the European Championships in Poland have been warned to take note of a measles outbreak in Eastern Europe and high measles rates in other European countries playing in the tournament including France, Germany and Italy.

There have been at least 5,000

cases of measles in the Ukraine in the first three months of 2012, according to the head of the HSE’s National Immunisation Office, Dr Brenda Corcoran.

The MMR jab is free from GPs, although an administration fee may apply to people who do not have a GP visit or medical

card.

“Considering the huge expense many fans are incurring going to the finals it would be a great shame to miss the matches because of measles. The best advice is; get the MMR vaccine before you go,” said Dr Corcoran.

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Pete Treanor’s

Weekly Quiz

Movies In what movie did John Wayne play Sean Thornton aka Trooper Thorn?

Local Which Dundalk street was nicknamed The Gut? Kids TV What is the name of Dora the Explorer’s pet monkey?

Ireland What colour is Kilkenny Marble?

Nature What name is given to a young deer?

Current Affairs Mossad is the secret service of what country?

Explorers What was Robert Ballard’s world famous discovery of 1985?

Money In terms of hard cash

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Awards for DkIT film students

A film by DkIT students has earned rave reviews after scooping two awards at one of the country’s leading film festivals.

‘Solaria’, directed by John Hoey who graduated from the Video & Film Production course last year has won best overall short film at the LIT film Festival, while John also received best director award at the festival.

Darren O’Connor (cinematographer) and Craig Broughton (producer) were present with John Hoey to receive the award.

The film will now be screened in May, both at the renowned Phoenix Comicon Festival in what to the Americans the USA which takes place from refer to as a Benjamin?

May 24 to 27.

Pop Music This is the second American Besides Louis Vega, who screening for Solaria, the short film made its North American had a 2007 hot with Mambo No 5?

Famous Bums What is Pippa Middleton’s middle name?

Stinker: Famous for many other things which American eccentric billionaire invented the Cantilever bra?

News

in Brief

Storyteller in Library

Dundalk Library is welcoming acclaimed Canadian children’s storyteller Kathy Jessup to the library on Saturday May 12 at 11am. Contact Dundalk Library at 042 9353190 for more details.

San Giovanni Pilgrimage

A pilgrimage to San GioDarren O’Connor (cinematographer) and Craig Broughton (producer) were present with and John vanni Rotondo and Assisi Hoey (director) are in the attached image receiving their best short film award. will take place from AuIt will also screen at the Fast- gust 20 to 27 under tour premiere when it screened at the (The Walking Dead), Brent International Sci-Fi film festival Spiner (Star Trek) and William net Short Film Festival in Cork, leader, Owen Rice. Total Shatner (Star Trek) are all set to also taking place from May 24 price is €965. Contact in Arizona earlier this year.

Owen at 9372455. to 27.

Special guests Jon Berthnal appear at the convention.

Jedward set for Market Square concert

—this week’s answers— Apology: The Radio Eireann Take the Floor was hosted by Denis Joseph Fitzgibbon, aka ‘Dinjo’ – Dingo is a game played by your granny when she loses her hearing.

Andrew Mawhinney and Stewart Agnew in Market Square

Ireland’s favourite twins, Jeward, will be the first to perform in an open air concert in Dundalk’s refurbished Market Square as part of the celebrations to mark Euro 2012.

Ireland’s Eurovision representatives will be on stage on Sunday June 10 to create a fantastic buzz in the hours running up to Ireland’s first Euro 2012 match, which will be broadcast live on a big screen from the Market Square.

Promoter, Stewart Agnew, explained that it was the per-

fect act for the first concert at the venue.

“We needed someone that everyone knows straightaway and we needed someone that we knew could play to a wide audience. Jedward are perfect for this concert and will be getting getting everyone to “Put Your Green Cape On” for Ireland.”

A line-up of award winning support acts will also take to the stage on the Sunday afternoon including Funky Feet, Ryan Dolan, Simon O’Driscoll,

Conor C and Nino.

Dundalk Town Centre Commercial Manager Andrew Mawhinney was thrilled at the prospect of the twins visiting town.

“Their arrival at the Market Square takes place at the ideal time. There will be a great atmosphere following the Táin march and we will be building up to the Euro 2012 matches.

“We have an exciting weeklong programme of free events rang from football matches to concerts and films.”

1. The Quiet Man 2. Williamsons Place 3. Boots 4. Black 5. Fawn 6. Israel 7. The wreck of the Titanic 8. $100 bill – Benjamin Franklin is depicted on it 9. Bob the Builder 10. Charlotte. Stinker: Howard Hughes

Over to you Question: Should smoking in public areas such as parks, be banned?

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

News

in Brief Cllr Oliver Morgan

As a non-smoker I would be in favour of Minister O’Reilly’s proposals to ban smoking in public parks, beaches and playgrounds.

As a youth club worker I’ve always advocated non-smoking so yes I would be in favour.

Matthew English

I think the idea to ban smoking from pubs was a good one but I think they are going a bit far by banning it from all public places.

I’d have no problem with people smoking as long as it’s not indoor or directly affecting anybody.

Woman suffered a broken nose Two women each faced a charge of assault causing harm as a result of another young woman sustaining a broken nose.

The injured party claimed that she sustained the injury at a house at Slieve Foy Park where she alleged she was kicked and punched and her hair pulled and fired on the stairs.

Dundalk Court heard that she went to the house early in the morning. She was told she was not welcome and stayed outside. An incident took place subsequently after she left and returned to the house.

Her alleged assailants Pamela Smith (22) 33 Woodbury Gardens, Tom Bellew Avenue and Tanya Campbell (25), 25 Slieve Foy Park, denied the offence at Slieve Foy Park on August 8 2010, and claimed they were attacked by Emma Rice.

Their solicitors submitted that Rice arrived at the house quite drunk with the intention of causing

trouble and pushed her way into the house. There was a gap of between one and a half to two hours between when the alleged incident took place and an ambulance was called. It might have been the case that the injured party fell and sustained her injury.

Judge William Hamill adjourned his decision to May 16.

The Court was told that there was a background of ill feeling between Emma Rice and one of the defendants.

Emma Rice said she didn’t provoke the assault. She found out two weeks afterwards she was pregnant.

Pamela Smith said that the complainant grabbed her hair and she pulled her hair back.

Tanya Campbell said the complainant hit her with a bunch of keys and cut her ear. She shoved the complainant, but didn’t kick or punch her.

Jim celebrates 50th at The Aviva

Brian, Paul, Gavin, Davy & Jim McDonnell celebrating Jim’s 50th birthday at the recent Ulster v Edinburgh Heineken Cup semi-final Saturday, 28th April, in the Aviva Stadium.

Irene Barr

I think it’s gone too far. I’m a nurse so I would obviously be concerned with the effects of smoking. I’d definitely be in favour of banning smoking in cars with children in them but I think Minister O’Reilly may be going a bit too far with his measures. People should just be sensible about the whole thing.

Barbara O’Flaherty

Technically I’m against it in any form, but providing they are not affecting anybody then I think perhaps it’s taking it a bit far to ban smoking in parks and beaches.

Senator Mary Moran

Yes I would be in favour of the Minister’s proposals. I have spoke before in the senate in favour of banning smoking in cars where children are present and I would be in favour of these measures too.

St Pio Triduum

St Pio Triduum will be held in the Church of the Holy Redeemer, Ard Easmuinn starting May 21 with Mass. Tuesday May 22 Mass and Blessing of the Sick, Wednesday 23, Mass and Benediction.

Rosary at 7.10pm and blessing with relic each evening.

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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

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Local TDs on the Fiscal Treaty campaign With little over 20 days to go until Ireland votes on the Fiscal Compact Treaty, Louth’s political heavy weights have toed the line. Louth has no independent’s elected and the County’s TDs have followed their party lines.

Fine Gael’s, Peter Fitzpatrick and Fergus O’Dowd calling for ‘yes’ vote, as is Labour’s Ged Nash and Finna Fail’s Seamus Kirk.

The difficulty faced by the ‘yes’ camp is making the impact of the treaty’s provisions clear and understandable. Following the recent ‘no’ vote in the recent referendum on Inquiries by the Oireachtas, many commentators put the result down to people being uninclined to vote in favour of something when not fully informed about it, preferring to air on the side of caution.

In an effort to offer clarity on

Yes: Peter Fitzpatrick.

No: Gerry Adams.

the treaty, Finna Fail are hosting a public meeting in the Grove on May 15 at 8pm. It will cover the fiscal treaty, mortgage and personal debt.

The government will distribute a 40 page booklet on the treaty, however, following the elections in Greece and France this week, the treaty is expected

to be renegotiated. The referendum will go ahead at the end of the month none the less.

Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick TD commented.“I am urging everyone across Louth/East Meath to come out and vote Yes on May 31. This Treaty is in the best interest of the country as we continue along the path to recovery.

The Treaty is about Ireland; it is about what position we want to put ourselves in as we get back on our feet as a country.”

On the other side of the line is Sinn Fein’s call for a ‘No’ vote with Louth County Councillor Tomás Sharkey calling on grassroot Finna Fail supporters to look to the example of Eamonn Ó Cuiv in opposing the Fiscal Compact Treaty.

He said “Eamonn Ó Cuív has stepped away from Fianna Fáil’s official position for this referendum, but I believe he represents many Fianna Fáil supporters who I have met. I am appealing to those people to use their votes to prevent austerity being written into our Constitution and to prevent sovereignty being handed to Europe.”

Speaking at a public meeting in Ardee last week Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD said

“It is quite clear austerity doesn’t work. We’ve had six austerity budgets in the last four years and the deficit has grown, not reduced.

“Despite the governments calculated scare tactics citizens are increasingly realising that a No vote in the referendum does not mean this state is locked out of the European Stability Mechanism or the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF).”

He continued to address the economic impact stating that “If passed this Treaty will also impose an additional €6 billion in cuts and taxes on households and citizens struggling to survive at this time. The choice in the referendum is simple. It is between austerity policies that have failed and are crippling families across the state, or economic stimulus, growth and job creation.”

News

Top Award for Dromad Hire

in Brief

St Dominic’s Football Club

The Hire Awards of Excellence 2012, for a second year, took place at the breathtaking Grosvenor House Hotel, London on April 28 and saw Dromad Hire win the ‘Highly Commended’ award, and in the process became the first ever Irish company to do so.

Independently judged, the Hire Awards of Excellence are designed to genuinely recognise excellence throughout the Hire Industry.

Excitement at the inaugral Carrickmacross Lions Club NE Cycle - Photo’s provided by Finian McCourt

Funds raised on the day went to the Carrickmaross Alzheimers Society -Photo’s provided by Finian McCourt

Training For Under 8s (born 2004) and Under 9s (born 2003) takes place every Thursday night at 7pm in The Friary Field.

Everyone welcome. For more information contact John 086-3712924.

Email: stdominicsfc@ gmail.com

300 cyclists take part in North East challenge for Alzheimers support The inaugural Carrickmacross Lions Club North East Cycle Challenge took place on Sunday May 6 and attracted 300 cyclists from throughout the country.

The event earned huge praise from the participating cyclists for the professional way it was

organised and for the two routes selected.

Two hundred and sixteen experienced cyclists set off at 9.30am on the 100km Drumlin Challenge which passed through Shercock, Cootehill, Newbliss, Lough Egish and Castleblaney before returning to Carrickmacross.

Mayor of Carrickmacross Noel Keelan had the honour of being the official starter before he, himself got on his bike and rode the Oriel Route.

Eighty four cyclists signed up for the 30km Oriel Route which started at 10am and took them on a flat quiet route to the picturesque village of Tallanstown. Refreshments were kindly provided to the participants by the Tallanstown Tidy Towns Committee before the cyclists embarked on

the return journey to Carrickmacross.

Carrickmacross Alzheimer’s Society representative Mrs Alice Deery was the official Oriel Route starter.

All proceeds from The North East Cycle Challenge went towards the provision of a weekly bus service for Alzheimer’s patients taking them to the Drumkill Daycare Centre in Threemilehouse.

The Carrickmacross Lions Club members and volunteers provided refreshments and showers for the returning cyclists in The Phoenix Sports Centre. Some weary participants availed of a complimentary massage whilst others tucked into soup, sandwiches, savoury pies, brack and scones donated by local businesses.

Carrickmacross Lions

Club President, Andrew Spare, was overwhelmed by the level of support and generosity that the first North East Cycle Challenge generated.

He felt that ”the success of the event and the positive reaction from the cyclists means that The North East Cycle Challenge will become a permanent fixture in the cyclists’ diaries in the future”.

He expressed thanks to Michael Clarke of Carrick Cycle Centre and to members of The Carrickmacross Cycling Club for their input into the organisation of the event. Special thanks went to Cycle Coach Valerie Campion who acted as Head Safety Steward and whose invaluable experienced guided the event organisers throughout.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

News

in Brief Monthly Meeting

Dundalk Chamber of Commerce and Dundalk TCCM are holding monthly meetings to share and implement ideas to improve the town. The next one is being held Thursday May 17 from 9am to 10am in the TCCM Office, Market Square. All businesses are invited. It is planned to hold a meeting on the third Thursday of every month.

Separated Parents

The next Tuesday meetings of Parents Separated Support Group take place on 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 €5 to include refreshments.

From 7:30pm to 9pm at Social Services Building, 15A Clanbrassil Street.

HSE services review causes concern Dundalk to host Concern is rising over the outcome of the HSE’s review of services in Louth County Hospital. Chairman of the Louth Hospital campaign, Tomas Sharkey, claims that access to Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) will be cut as opening hours are reduced.

In a statement issued last week the local Councillor said “HSE managers have been meeting on an ongoing basis to discuss what they call ‘Cost Containment’ within local hospitals. I am informed that the opening hours of the Minor Injuries Unit in Dundalk are under serious threat from these cost containment plans. A risk assessment is being carried out by HSE management into the proposed reduction of hours.

lin North East Group and continues to play an important role in the delivery of clinical services in the Louth area and to other parts of the North East Region.

The current level of activity will be maintained at Louth County Hospital as part of the 2012 Service Plan. In addition, an increase in day services activity is also planned for 2012.”

Mr Sharkey said “the Minister needs to be made aware of what the HSE is planning here in Louth and put a stop to it.”

“It makes no sense to cut back on our MIU. Last week there were 62 patients on trolleys in Our Lady of Lourdes. Forcing more patients into that environment is a recipe for disaster.

Closing the MIU in Dundalk at the weekend will mean that surgical patients discharged from the Lourdes will have no dressings clinic to attend, it will mean that patients will have a 5-6 hour wait in the Lourdes instead of a 1 hour stay in Dundalk and it will also raise the unacceptable risk that patients will give up waiting in the Lourdes and go home without being seen.

“As a committee, we are asking that political pressure be brought to bear on the HSE and Department of Health to ensure these cuts do not happen. We are open to meet with all Oireachtas members in order to give them the arguments as to why this cut should not happen.

SVP National President visits Marist

Saint Vincent de Paul National President Mairead Bushnell received a very warm welcome from 3C CSPE Class on her recent visit to the School as part of the Junior Certificate Action Project.

The students have invited the charity’s President to inform them on the work of the society and her role as head of the largest charity in Ireland. Mairead was greeted by Principal Mr McGinley, Deputy Principal Mr Lambe and We want to hear from you 3C class representatives Niall Valentine and MarPhone: 042 932 0888 tyna Maselskyte Email: editorial Niall welcomed Maire@dundalkleader.com

Got a Story?

I challenged the HSE that this risk assessment is about saving money and has no regard for patient safety.”

The MIU is currently open from 9am to 8pm seven days a week and costs €100 to attend.

Mr Sharkey says that he has received reports from the meetings indicating that the hours will be reduced from 9am – 6pm.

Last month Minister James Reilly responded to a parliamentary question posed by Gerry Adams regarding the restriction of hours in the hospital. He said “I want to ensure that as many services as possible can be provided safely in smaller, local hospitals.

He said, “Louth County Hospital is an integral part of the Dub-

Martyna Maselskyte and Niall Valentine with principle Mr McGinley and the SVP president Mairead Bushnell.

ad and talked about the rich heritage the school has with the society and other charities. He spoke

at how students have volunteered for bag packs, brought in food for Christmas hampers and sup-

ported various fundraising activities. Niall went on to say that it was very fitting that Mairead to come to our school in the year of its 150th anniversary celebrations.

Mr McGinley also welcomed Mairead to the school. He again went through the volunteerism of our students and commended 3C CSPE class for a worthwhile Action Project. Mairead spoke at the warm reception she had just received and commended Mr McGinley on the good manners the students displayed. She spoke of her

role as National President of the Society which is coming to an end in June and that what her thoughts on the future of the society and the financial crisis the society is helping to overcome.

There followed a question and answer session in which Mairead gave an account as to difficult experiences she had encountered in her time as National President and what value young people can contribute to the society encouraging them to start up an SVP Conference in the school and lead by example.

international fire conference

Fire officers from across Ireland and abroad gathered in Dundalk, County Louth this week to participate in the annual Irish Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) Conference and Fire Technology Exhibition.

‘New Horizons for the Fire and Rescue Service of the Future’ is the theme of this year’s two-day event, which was opened by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, in Dundalk’s Ballymascanlon House Hotel today, Wednesday May 9.

The aim of the Conference and accompanying Exhibition is to afford all involved in the fire and rescue area the opportunity to debate current issues and to see the latest developments in fire service appliances and equipment, and to explore the newest technology in fire service operations and fire prevention.

Among the topics to be covered will be current Irish and UK fire service developments, regionalism of the fire service, the provision of combined fire and ambulance service, an effective building control system, operational risk taking, and the use of computer fire models.

Conference Secretary and Chief Fire Officer for Louth County Fire and Rescue Service, Eamon Woulfe said that Fire Service personnel will use this year’s Conference as an opportunity to focus on service delivery options.

Mr Woulfe added: “The conference programme covers a range of fire and rescue service delivery options into the future. These will be delivered by speakers from a number of countries where the service delivery models and services provided are different to Ireland.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Vodafone delay call centre transfer Vodafone has delayed the movement of their call centre operations in Ireland from Dundalk and Dublin to Newry following the failure of negotiations to be completed by the deadline day which was this week. The corporation say the delay will allow talks between the Communication Workers Union to continue.

Two weeks ago the members of the communication workers union balloted for strike action as the move adversely effects 26 Vodafone employees and 290 Rigney Dolphin staff. The company said that that there were still outstanding issues and that in order to make progress in these areas the move would now go ahead on May 8 as planned. The company say they are commit-

Violent disorder Six men appeared at Dundalk Court on Wednesday last charged with violent disorder. They are alleged to have committed the offence at Bellewsbridge Road on May 12 last, and the Director of Public Publication has directed that the case proceed on indictment to the Circuit Court, Inspector Brendan Cadden told The six, Martin (40) and James (44) McDonagh both of 9, Naughton’s Close, Patrick Anthony McDonagh (48) 45, Bellingham Green, Castlebellingham along with Alan Joyce (37) The Demesne, Castletown Road, Darren Joyce (33) 27, Convent Hill, Newry and Paul Joyce (41) 1, Villas 3, Muirhevnamor were remanded on bail to July 25 for the service of the book of evidence. Time was extended for that purpose by Judge William Hamill.

ted to resolving the outstanding issues and reaching a solution as soon as possible. However there is no sign that the move has been scrapped.

Workers at the call centres were told that operations of the customer service call centres were being transferred from Rigney Dolphin to Teleperformance in Newry and that the process would begin in six weeks.

However the move has been delayed with no official new deadline announced.

Last week the government intervened in the dispute by inviting parties to participate in meeting with the Joint Oireachtas Committee Committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture. The Committee, acting on foot of a

request by 15 Oireachtas members, has requested that Vodafone attend a meeting to explain their decisions over the last 12 months which will result in almost 500 customer care jobs servicing its Irish customer base being exported.

CWU Deputy General Secretary Terry Delany said “The public representatives that have been contacted by workers impacted by Vodafone’s decisions have recognised the glaring hypocrisy at the heart of Vodafone’s actions to export Irish jobs serving the needs of its Irish customer base. Vodafone is the market leading mobile communications company in Ireland, benefiting from the lowest corporate taxes in the developed world and repatriating

A 61-year-old former priest who abused two young teenage boys while they were pupils at a school in County Louth was jailed for 18 months at Dundalk Circuit Court.

The accused who can not be named for legal reasons to protect the identity of the victims, admitted seven counts of indecent assault relating to dates in the early 80s when the boys were in his care.

He was stated to have suffered abuse as a young student and also from alcoholism at the time of the offences.

He was sentenced to concurrent terms, all of 18 months, in respect of each count and the Judge directed he be placed on the Sex Of-

fenders Register for ten years.

The court heard that one of the boys fell in a shower and banged his head. The accused who held a nursing qualification came to see him. He pulled down the sheets of the bed and fondled him.

The accused performed indecent acts on the victim in the former’s room on a number of occasions.

The victim smelled drink off him on the first occasion.

The second victim suffered a stomach complaint. He was driven to a doctor by the accused who subsequently also performed an indecent act on him.

The boys were aged between 12 and 14 when the incidents occurred. Both received treatment with which they were not finished,

A 26-year-old man who tendered a false prescription at two local pharmacies to obtain drugs was greatly under the influence of drugs at the time.

Gavin Brady with an address at 233, Greenacres and stated to be a native of Carrickmacross was given a six month sentence in respect of one of four counts with the others taken into consideration at Dundalk Court.

Garda Inspector Brendan Cadden

Justyna Bratz (38), of 4, Lios Dubh, Armagh Road was fined €160 at Dundalk Court when she admitted a charge of careless driving.

The case arose when she collided with a car that was turning right on the road at Dromiskin on June 23 last year.

said that the defendant handed in a prescription purported to be signed by a doctor to obtain valium and another drug on March 29 last year.

He obtained the prescription at one of the pharmacies and the drugs weren’t recovered.

He had 16 previous convictions, which included drugs offences.

Solicitor Frank McDonnell said the defendant was off drugs about six months.

Assault case adjourned

Judge William Hamill adjourned to June 6 an assault causing harm charge against Daniel McKeown (30) Old Schoolhouse, Magoney, Inniskeen to receive a medical report with regard to deciding where the case would be heard.

He was told that the injured party received dental injuries of which the prosecution had photographs but not a medical report.

The defendant is accused of committing the offence at Mr Ridleys, Park Street on August 8 last.

He was remanded on continuing bail.

Members of the Louth Trades Network constructing a new footpath as part of their voluntary refurbishment work at the Carroll Meade Sheltered Housing Development in Dundalk.

Louth Trades Network continued their good work in Carroll Meade last week as they completed the first phase of their rejuvenation of the area. The unique networking group of tradespeople, formed to fight back against the slump in the building industry, came together to voluntarily refurbish the sheltered housing scheme for older people.

Carroll Meade was founded by Agnes Carroll of the Carroll tobacco family 41 years ago to provide a community experience for elderly people who may be otherwise alone or isolated. It now conthe investigating Garda Sergeant sists of 24 houses, a vibrant community told.

The Sergeant said the accused voluntarily presented himself at Dundalk Garda Station on March 5 last year and made a full and frank admission.

Defence barrister Derek Kenneally said that the accused underwent treatment and also for his alcoholism. He hadn’t come to attention since and expressed deep remorse. He was assessed at low risk of re-offending. Judge Michael O’Shea described the manner in which the accused dealt with the two boys as sinister and the act of a predator who was in a dominant position with complete control over them. He refused the accused leave to appeal.

Former priest receives 18 months for abuse

Man tendered false prescriptions

Fined €160 for careless driving

over €2 billion in profits to its parent group. Yet, the Company is happy to axe 500 Irish jobs in pursuit of further cost savings and increased profits.”

He described Vodafone’s handling of the situation as disingenuous and callous as the company “sought to underplay the true impacts and reality of its decisions, at first claiming that there would be no job losses.”

The CWU also called for the government to re-examine the criteria used in the awarding of contracts to telecommunication service providers. Mr Delaney said “procurement competitions must be reviewed to include scoring for the relative contribution of corporations to the local economy in Ireland and sustaining jobs in Ireland.”

Louth Trades Network continue good work

Man charged following the discovery of oil laundering plant

A 35-year-old South Armagh man charged following the discovery of an oil laundering plant in North Louth earlier this year, was further remanded on bail on Thursday last.

State solicitor Fergus Mullen said that the quantity involved was millions when asked by Judge William Hamill at Dundalk Court what was the scale of the alleged activity.

He told that directions were not to hand yet from the DPP, and sought an adjournment for the preparation of a book of evidence.

The case was likely to proceed on indictment in the circuit court. Judge Hamill put the case back to July 5th.

Pat Conway of 25, Coolderry Road, Crossmaglen is accused of removing or attempting to remove a prescribed marker, solvent yellow 124 from mineral oil at Courtbane, Hakballscross on January 25 last.

hall and a safe and secure community of older people grateful for the generosity of the Louth Trade Network .

The network are building a new footpath, painting the exteriors of four houses, painting and installing permanent presses in the main com munity hall, building a shed for a ride-on lawnmower, and cleaning all windows, facias and soffits as well as power washing the main building.

While work has been ongoing over the past few weeks –the main day of works is set to take place this Saturday May 12.

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Eno Bar & Grill host pizza apprentice

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

First placed in the competition was St Mary’s. Team Name: Maristenos, comprised of team members Emma Walsh, Glenn McCourt, Shane Rice, Eanna Toner, Ciaran Murphy, Karen O’Rourke, Loren Murnaghan. They called their pizza Currizza and rasied €50 for St Vincent de Paul.

Second place St Vincent’s team called themselves “It’s a bit cheesy”. Team: Jane Byrne, Kerrie Campbell, Jenny Gray, Rachel Vernon and Kate Whelan seen here with Paddy Malone Dervela Hargidon and Catriona McCabe.

They gave their pizza the name: The Italian Trio. The team raised e118.80 for the North Louth Hospice and Home Care Foundation.

O Fiaich College took part with their team ‘Picante’ Which was made up of team members Teresa Egan, Laura Martin, Rachel Rogan, Kinga Glazowska, Bianca Plesca. Represented here by Audrey Flood and Siobhan Flynn their Pizza Rossini helped raise money for Dundalk Simon Community

St Vincent’s team ‘Piece a’Heaven’.

Sarah Vernon, Ciara O’Driscoll, Njeri Ndungu, Caroline Reape, Aideen Whelan, Christina Rafferty.

Their pizza was called - The Wild Western and they raised funds for St Brigid’s Primary School.

Eno’ Bar & Grill hosted the official prize giving for their innovative Pizza Apprentice competition on Friday May 4 with a ceremony in the restaurant. All the schools were represented with the team members from all seven teams and staff from each school.

The competition was launched at the beginning of the semester with Transition Year students. The competition was the bright idea of Eno’s Lisa Power who came up with the competition with her niece.

Each team began to develop their own pizza, incorporating all elements from design, branding, ingredients, marketing, and promotion. They also selected a charity to which 10% of the proceeds of their pizza sales were donated.

Addressing and developing much of what it takes to be successful in business, throughout the first term, teams had consultations with the

Eno’ management to help guide them through the process of developing their recipes and to give them a behind-the-scenes insight into the running of a restaurant.

The pizzas began to appear on the menu in rotation from January to the end of April, with the score derived from a combination of votes via Eno’s Facebook page and the actual sales of each pizza.

Each team was presented with a cheque for their chosen charity with Eno’ Bar & Grill donating a total of almost E400 to seven deserving causes.

This then led straight into the ‘Most Pizzas Sold’ category, which also had the added bonus of being the team to raise the most money for their chosen charity.

The winner was the ‘It’s a bit cheesy’ team from St Vincent’s for their ‘Italian Trio’ pizza raising a staggering €118.80 for the North

Louth Hospice and Home Care Foundation.

St Louis Secondary School named the competition ‘Eno Pizza Apprentice’. While the ‘Best Pizza Name’ category which was awarded to the O’Fiaich team for their ‘Pizza Rossini’.

The Best Marketing category St Mary’s school team ‘Maristenos’ won out with a terrific use of various media and showing a superb understanding of the digital marketing channels available.

The overall winner of the Competition was St Mary’s team ‘Maristenos’ with the ‘Currizza’ which will now feature on the Eno’ Bar & Grill menu until the end of the month with 10% of proceeds continuing to go to their charity, St Vincent de Paul.

In a speech on the day Eno’s team remarked on the high level of professionalism and cooperation from the schools and the respective teams.

Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Lava Lounge making its mark on Dundalk’s nightlife The Lava Lounge is a ‘small town club with an up-town feel’ and it is certainly making its mark on Dundalk’s nightlife. Removed from the typical town disco you’re unlikely to hear Britney being bashed out as the clubs resident and guest DJ’s avoid chart music and take a more selective and focused approach to their sets.

The new club offers a platform for local DJ’s to take spinning their decks to a new level and simultaneously provides Dundalk clubbers with an eclectic palate of music for a sophisticated option on a night out. Run

by two local DJ’s, the organisers are scrupulous about the quality of music that is played while still catering for a wide variety of musical tastes.

One of the clubs resident DJ’s has already been talent spotted. After putting up his mixes up on Soundcloud (free music sharing community website), DJ Richard Kimble, was noticed and has been asked to supply Ramp FM with a monthly essential mix. His mixes and other by the clubs DJ are all online and offer an insight into what you can expect from this unique venue.

This year’s Viking Festival promises to be better than even.

Minister launches Viking Festival Friday night saw the launch of the Annagassan Viking Festival 2012 at a reception held in Annagassan’s History Hall. The festival is to be the main fundraiser for the Linn Duachaill Viking Excavation project.

This year’s festival plans include a Viking torch-lit parade at dusk on Friday August 10, Viking battle reenactments, Viking living history displays, the very popular Viking 10k run, medieval plays, arts and

crafts, music, Irish dancing, and lots of free activities for children to name but a few.

Richie McGeough, Chairman of the Linn Duachaill Group, outlined the importance of the Linn Duachaill Viking site in terms of its European history, tourism and job creation potential at the launch. He described how the Longphort is ideally situated between Failte Ireland’s strategic regional tourism development priorities.

Tickets for Jedward on sale

Tickets for Jedward’s concert in Market Sq will go on sale from Friday next, May 11 via Ticketmaster, the Box Office, Dundalk Town Hall and Carrolls Book Shop, Park Street. Tickets will be priced at €18.50 each with €60 family tickets also available (each family ticket must include one adult).

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Duke Special tour will stop at The Spirit Store Following the resounding success of the Spirit Store’s collaboration with the Crowne Plaza in bringing Mick Flannery to the Dundalk audience, the renowned music venue have announced that Duke Special will follow suit and is set to bring his tour to Dundalk this June 8.

This dynamic artist manages to straddle savage emotive forces and melodic and stylish music,making for powerful and evocative performances. He once described Duke Special. himself as ‘“inhabiting in his own alluring genre romanticism.” of beautifully bruised Best known for the work

First Cut at The Store

from his platinum selling album ‘Songs from the Deep Forest’ which includes hits like ‘Freewheel’ and ‘Sweet Sweet Kisses’ many would be surprised by the breadth of his work.

Duke Special’s immense creative talents have seen him involved in projects as diverse as writing the theme tune for Sesame Tree (the Northern Ireland edition of Sesame Street) to writing the music for, and appearing in, Deborah production of Bertolt Brecht’s Mother Courage and Her Children at London’s National Theatre. He has also been commissioned

by Metropolitan Museum released June 18. of Art in New York to write He takes the album on a tour with a set of intimate original songs based on the work of photographers Stieglitz, Steichen, and Strand.

But recently he has been focused on his new album, his first commercial album, “Oh Pioneer”. A banned Iranian children’s book about a fish, a pirate who wants to retire, a bar man who hears people’s stories whether he likes it or not, the human condition and late night conversations with friends about your dreams are just a few of the ingredients to go into “Oh Pioneer” which will be

Local girls enjoy Vantastival

The First Cut’s first band slam it due to take place this Friday night in the Spirit Store where six acts will battle it out for a slot supporting MGB and Kodakid the following week in the Spirit Store. MGB are one of Ireland’s hardest working bands, tirelessly gigging and galvenising support. As well as the supporting slot the bands also stand to win a recording session and some promotional opportunities. Battle of the bands nights are always an exciting affair as the acts throw all their energy into performances they hope will win them the top prize. The line up includes Boondalk Saints, 2Minutes2Midnight, I Cant Stand Stills Milda Prasmut, Katie Kerley, Sarah Kirk and Ciara McKeever + more

shows in the UK in May Crowne Plaza in associabefore returning to Ireland tion with the Spirit Store. where he will play in the His single ‘Punch a Friend’

is available for download for free from his website www.dukespecial.com

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Appliances

Couriers

Gardening

Builder

Conservatories/Windows/Sunrooms

Gravel

Blinds

Gardening Electrical

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Patios & Paving

Plumbing

Sliding Wardrobes

TV / Satelite

Skips Windows

Top Soil

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

letter to the editor

Cycle lane problems can be dealt with

Dear Editor, to the developing cycling and residents’ displeasure A lot of negative public- network. The disruption and understandable. ity has recently been given inconvenience is very real, However, it is impossible to distinguish between temporary problems caused by the works and permanent problems associated with the cycling lanes themselves.

The latter will be addressed as a matter of high priority as soon as the lanes have been completed, and we can identify them.

The well-being of local residents and businesses is our highest priority. To that end, we urge Dundalk people to put their minds to ways we can improve traffic flow independent of the cycling lanes, or instance, a working one-way system which will

eliminate right turns and lead to smooth, uninterrupted driving.

Just think of your last trip to town: how many times were you delayed waiting to turn right, or blocked by a vehicle doing so? Vacant business premises which are no longer commercially viable can perhaps be put to better use as parking lots.

Cycling lanes are the only way to make urban transport work, while containing fumes to tolerable levels.

Family Notices

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

Anniversary

Regards, Liam Kieran Chairman, Dundalk Cycling Alliance.

In loving memory of Barry Smith late of Mountainview Crescent, who’s 9th anniversary occurs on 10th of May. We think about you often We talk about you still You’ve never been forgotten And by us you never will.

Always remembered by Thomas and Siobhan.

Acknowledgement Reilly, Seamus Roskeagh, Kilcurry Passed away 30th April at Louth County Hospital.

Winner of the €100 voucher in the AIB Showcase draw, Denise Marmion from Kilcurry, receiving her prize from Kay Morgan of Sunset Creations,

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Drawing, painting, printing, ceramics, textiles and theatre. For further information contact info@sarahmckenna. com or 0863499195.

PSYCHIC& MEDIUMSHIP development classes Tuesday nights 7.30 9pm.

The Outcomers, rear of 8 Roden Place, Dundalk. Tel: 087 7099744.

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Maintenance & Renovations*Painting & Decorating*All PVC products supplied & fitted – we have a complete range of PVC Windows and Doors in various colours*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, breakins, 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 042-9332491or 087-666-0094. Email tribalky@ yahoo.com Telephone Problems, Wires everywhere? Ring John (ex-Eircom) for

Deeply and Sincerely regretted by his Mother Joan, uncles, aunts, cousins and wide circle of friends.

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 Digital H.D., Sales, service, repairs. Eamonn Cooney TV. 7 Distillery Lane.087-267-1809 / 0429331348 Weddings 2011 Special at Peter Hughes Photography, Professional Wedding Photography, full coverage of wedding and 26 page picture story book album total price €750 phone 042 9333732 mob 087 2561161 CARPENTER AVAILABLE 25 years experience. All interio, exterior, including kitchens, decking, doors, floors, flat-packs etc. No job too small.

Keenest prices. Quality finish assured. Call Des for free quotation 0876180150 CHIMNEY CLEANING SERVICE Dust Free Brush and Vac Reasonable rates.

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 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 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. Aquasolve. 087-2664224 A1 CHIMNEY CLEANING service. Very clean professional work guaranteed.

Have your chimney cleaned twice a year! 087-1839952 ABLE PLUS STAIRLIFTS: New Stairlifts €1499.99. Curved lifts from €4000.00.

Great aftercare. Free quotes. Fully Insured. Ph: 01-8245763 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 04293-28301 and 0851286436 PSYCHIC TAROT B.C. Card Parties.

Individual readings. Call for readings.

089-4617083

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.

HANDYMAN SERVICES For all your domestic jobs.

Painting/Decorating/Flooring/Building/Plastering etc.

Phone Brian 0872952529 AGradeflooring.com All types of wood flooring. Fitted, sanded, stained and refinished. Free estimates. Call Paul 086-8049625 MEDIUM & REIKI MASTER One to one spiritual readings or Reiki Healing. Call James on 087-7517062 Reliable Experienced Cleaners to clean rented accomodation for viewers, offices and private houses. Reasonable rates. Contact Peter 086-1005335 Man with own equipment to do average size lawns, hedges, trees.

Louth/ Monaghan Tel 087 9705724 REFLEXOLOGY: Enjoy the enhanced benefits of having reflexology therapy in the comfort or your own home by therapist with 20 years experience.

Tel: 087 7099744.

CHILDRENS ENTERTAINMENT Magician and Balloon Modeller available for all parties. Contact Odenni. 042-9372455 or 0872473342.

SITUATIONS VACANT STAFF REQUIRED Barber/Hairdresser. Full time/Part time. Barber shop: The Grafton Barber, Marshes Shopping Centre, Marshes Avenue, Rampart Road, Dundalk. Leave your C.V. at reception desk or call 0429355568.

Contact Maja immediately between10am & 7pm. Monday - Sat and Sun 12-6pm.

CLEANER WANTED for occasional house cleaning in Omeath.

SPECIAL NOTICES Registered Childminder. Has vacancies for babies and older children. Every facility available. Phone 087-9536395. Carrick Road Area.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

Pictures from Vantasival 2012

Eamonn Mc Cann and Barry Fintan Power, ‘Niz Dangerfield’,

Mahony Gerry Faulkner (Cabin Fever) and ‘Dove Rock’

Kids paint a van in the Kids Zone at Vantastival

Sean and Emma Campbell Laura McMahon and Sean Nash enjoy the sunshine at Vantastival

Gaia, Caroline and Aisha Ryder

Amy Kelly and Rachel Mc Ardle

al get their nails painted at Vantastiv

Bronagh Moran, Kevin Johnson and Niamh Hanratty

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

NEW CHRYSLER 300C

The new Chrysler 300C will go on sale here later this year.

There will be two diesel models that will be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine producing 236bhp and 540Nm of torque. According to Chrysler the new 300C will return 39.8 mpg on the combined fuel

cycle and has a CO2 figure of 185-191g/km depending on wheel size.

The Chrysler 300C Limited features standard equipment such as including heated front and rear seats, load levelling suspension and height control, LED daytime running lamps, elec-

tronic stability control (ESC), hill start assist, active head restraints, and curtain, side, front and rear airbags.

The higher specified 300C Executive will add adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring system, forward collision warning, keyless entry, powered rear

sunshade, and heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats.

Chrysler state that the 300C has the largest standard colour touchscreen display and the largest sunroof in its segment, and is also one of the quietest vehicles available.

TWINGO RENAULTSPORT

Renault have just announced details of their new pocket rocket, the Twingo Renaultsport 133.

The Twingo Renaultsport 133 is powered by a 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated petrol power plant outputting 133hp at 6,750rpm, with

160Nm of torque available at 4,400rpm.

The top speed is 125 mph, with a 0-62 mph time of 8.7 seconds.

Twingo Renaultsport 133 outputs CO2 emissions of 150g/km, a saving of 3.2 per cent compared to its predecessor and improved fuel con-

sumption of 43.5 mpg combined cycle, up by three per cent.

There is only one model in the range but you can specify it with the optional Cup chassis which lowers the ride height by 4mm and offers stiffer springs and dampers plus 17”

Anthracite or Gloss Black alloy wheels with 205/40 R17 tyres.

Standard equipment now includes 16” alloy wheels, Bluetooth, cruise control, electric Gloss Black door mirrors, ESC (with on/off switch), speed limiter, extra tinted windows and tailgate, Renaultsport exhaust with chrome tailpipe, plus Twingo’s independent sliding and folding rear seats.

Options include - 17” Anthracite or Gloss Black alloy wheels, curtain airbags, metallic paint or tempting Renaultsport Liquid Yellow i.d. paint. The uniquein-class Renaultsport Monitor telemetry system is also available.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012

NEW 911

The new Porsche 911 Carrera was launched recently in Geneva, with change to both Coupe and Cabriolet models. The aluminium-steel body makes the new 911 Carrera lighter and sportier when combined with the 100 millimetre longer wheelbase and reduced height underpinning the design.

The new seven-speed manual transmission is featured as standard the seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe) autobox is an option.

The new Porsche 911 is powered by a 350hp, 3.4 litre cylinder engine and the 911 Carrera S with 400hp flat engine and 3.8 litre engine. Still the one to beat.

KIA AWARDS

The Kia Picanto and the Kia Rio have won top honours in the prestiges red dot design competition for 2012.

The Picanto and Rio were both winners in red dot’s internationallyacclaimed ‘Product Design’ category, in a competition that saw more than 4,500 products entered by 1,800 manufacturers from 58 countries.

These latest wins bring Kia’s red dot awards total to six, with the Soul winning in 2009, Venga in 2010, and both Sportage and Optima claiming top spots in 2011. Optima was also named ‘best of the best’ in 2011 - the red dot competition’s highest accolade for gro u n d - b re a k i n g design, for which only the best prod-

ucts in each category are eligible.

“We are very proud of the red dot awards for the Picanto and the Rio,” comments Kia’s Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer.

“They are a great tribute to our entire global design team, because all three Kia design centres were involved in the development of both vehicles. I am partic-

ularly happy about this thoroughly creative and successful collaboration between our teams in Korea, Europe and America.”

The red dot product design awards are one of the world’s major design contests and have been held by the Design Centre of North Rhine-Westphalia, in Germany, since 1955.

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Dundalk Leader 9th May 2012