DundalkBlog.com

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2007-01-13T18:39:00.004-08:00

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2007-01-13T18:39:00.003-08:00

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Dundalk Ice Dome

2007-01-13T18:39:00.000-08:00

The recent Dundalk protest at the FAI

2006-12-20T05:28:00.000-08:00

Dundalk unsure about court

2006-12-20T05:26:00.000-08:00

DUNDALK are still considering whether to pursue a legal challenge into the decision to place them in Division One of the FAI Eircom League of Ireland next year.

The Lilywhites board were furious after winning promotion on the field but losing out on a position in the new top flight due to the invitation process that was implemented by an Independent Assessment Group appointed by the FAI.

Any legal challenge was to be based around their quibbles with areas of that process but after a board meeting on Monday night the border club are still weighing up their options rather than deciding a definitive course ofaction.

It's understood that representatives of the Louth club will meet with FAI officials at some stage this week to discuss the matter further.

McGuinness to run in Louth ?

2006-11-27T18:01:00.001-08:00

Fine Gael MEP Mairead McGuinness has refused to rule out contesting the next general election in Co Louth.

Speculation about the move has been growing in recent weeks, with Ms McGuinness saying she has already decided against running in South Kildare because it is too far from her home near Ardee.

Speaking to reporters in Dublin this morning, she refused to rule out the possibility of running in Louth, despite the danger that she might unseat her party colleague Fergus O'Dowd.

Dundalk TV - Dundalk Retail Park

2006-11-26T12:25:00.001-08:00

Great Victory for Dundalk

2006-11-25T15:13:00.000-08:00

Eircom First Division side Dundalk FC defeated Premier Division side Waterford United 2-1 on the night - 3-2 on aggregate - in the eircom League play-off, second leg at the RSC tonight.

In a tough, no-holds barred battle, United opened the scoring on 69 minutes when Paul McCarthy delivered an excellent pass to Darryl Kavanagh who got past Aidan Lynch before steering the ball past goalkeeper Chris Bennion from ten yards.

Seven minutes later, Dundalk were back on level terms following a controversial penalty awarded by referee Anthony Buttimer who adjudged Kenny Browne to have taken down Philip Hughes in the area.

Trevor Vaughan held his nerve and clinically put the ball past Ben Spicer.
The winning goal came with just four minutes to go.

Vaughan cut in from the right wing and, on the run, fired off a blistering, low shot that ended up in the far corner of the net.

Meanwhile it has been reported locally that striker David Crawley may be back playing for Dundalk next season.

Dundalk still level after first leg

2006-11-23T00:55:00.000-08:00

Oriel Park erupted as a stoppage-time penalty from veteran striker Trevor Vaughan earned Dundalk a deserved 1-1 draw against Waterford United in the first leg of the eircom League play-off.

Kenny Browne had silenced the 2,000 home fans in attendance with an early goal that looked like it would give the visitors a slender lead to take back to the RSC on Saturday.

The centre-half rose unchallenged at the back post on three minutes to head past a helpless Chris Bennion after Alan Cawley's corner had been flicked on by James Chambers.

It was a dream start for the visitors, but they had to ride their luck for much of the remainder of the game as Dundalk went in desperate search of an equaliser.

Indeed, only the woodwork denied the home side getting back to level terms in first half stoppage time, as Keith Dunne's free-kick on the right came crashing back off the crossbar.

It looked as if Gareth Cronin's side would hold out for the win until a Doran overhead kick was handled in the box and experienced Vaughan sent Ben Spicer the wrong way with the calmest of finishes.

Louth couple have assets frozen in London

2006-11-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

The High Court in London has granted a request from Northern Ireland's Assets Recovery Agency to freeze nine properties worth over £1 million in Manchester.

The ARA says the residential properties belong to Francis and Judy Murphy of Ballybinaby, Co Louth.

It alleges that the property was funded from money laundering, fuel smuggling and mortgage fraud.

Mr Murphy is the brother of the alleged senior member of the IRA, Thomas 'Slab' Murphy.
In October of last year, the ARA carried out raids in Manchester and seized documents in relation to 250 houses.

Watch the RTE report here.

Local nursing home prosecuted

2006-11-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Two Nursing Homes that have been prosecuted by the Health Service Executive claim they are providing the highest standards of care to their residents.

It comes in the wake of reports that both Delvin Lodge in County Meath and Castle Lodge in County Louth are due in court this week for alleged breaches of care.

The facilities have been prosecuted by the HSE for failing to have warm beds for patients and failing to record the administration of medication.

FAI on Dundalk

2006-11-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

DUNDALK'S distinctive place in the annals of Irish football was secured on a balmy night way back in 1963 when they became the first Irish team to ever win a European match, beating FC Zurich 2-1 in the second leg of their European Cup clash.

What was even more impressive about Dundalk's achievement was that the famous victory was secured away from home and was coming off the back of the first leg 0-3 home loss at Dalymount Park.

In that game Dundalk packed 23,000 supporters into the old stadium and while it was a disappointing result the team and club took heart from what was a very good Performance.

Read on here.

3 Dundalk players make FAI selection

2006-11-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

The Professional Footballers Association of Ireland (PFAI) has announced its Premier and First Division Teams of the Year for 2006, with Shelbourne, Derry City and Cork City filling all 11 positions on the Premier side and First Division champs Shamrock Rovers gaining only two places on the First Division XI.

Dundalk, who finished second, have three players on the XI, while third-placed Galway, somewhat conversely, have four players on the PFAI selection. They are John Flanagan, Sean Finn and Philip Hughes.

Dundalk bombing to be discussed

2006-11-14T01:23:00.000-08:00

Northern police chief Hugh Orde will be in Leinster House today to discuss the bombing of Kay’s Tavern, Dundalk.

The Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland will meet an Oireachtas sub-committee over the atrocity which claimed two lives.

Two men were killed when a car bomb was planted by the Red Hand Commandos, a group closely associated with the Ulster Volunteer Force, outside the tavern on Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co Louth, in December 1975.

Constable Orde, and the Historical Enquiries Team, will discuss the barbaric act with the Sub-Committee on the Barron Report on the bombing of Kay’s Tavern, Dundalk, of the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women’s Rights.

The Barron Report deals with nine bombings on both sides of the border between 1974 and 1976 in which 18 people were killed, and many more injured.Incidents include the Dundalk bombing, the Dublin Airport bombing and the Miami Showband killings.

Fire at childrens playground

2006-11-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

A fire broke out this evening in the Pirates Den on the old Coes Rd. There were several children and adults using the playground at the time and many of the children had to leave he building without shoes as they were asked to evacuate without delay. It is believed that the fire broke out in the kitchen area which is located right next to the main entrance/exit. Dundalk Fire Brigade were attending the scene at time of writing.

Masive blow to Dundalk

2006-11-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

AN INTERNATIONAL real estate combine has pulled out of a €60m Dundalk factory outlet blaming severe planning delays.

The Ballymac Shopping Outlet scheme was to be developed by ING Real Estate Development in partnership with Coverfield Developments, part of the RJ McKinney group.

But a spokesman for ING confirmed in London yesterday that the factory outlet site in Dundalk is being sold to an unidentified Irish investor following lengthy planning delays.
The ING spokesperson said: "Planning delays have hampered the project and the company is now in advanced negotiations to sell the site."

It is believed that the Irish buyer still hopes to develop a factory outlet on the site, but may delay any development while rival schemes come on stream. Ballymac Shopping Outlet was planned to provide over 500 jobs.

The proposed 15,500 sqm Dundalk scheme has been held up for more than 18 months following objections and a judicial challenge by two local businessmen. Last year, an out-of-court settlement was reached and the scheme was finally given the go-ahead provided that it did not start before September 2006.

This delay has given Ballymac's main competitor in the North - Bridgewater Park, near Banbridge - a valuable edge. This project is now targetting an April 2007 opening.
It was earlier announced that some 40% of the space at Ballymac was already let, in legals or under offer.

Next was expected to anchor the 80-unit scheme designed by S&P Architects with a 928sqm unit.

Billy McKinney, managing director of the RJ McKinney group (founded originally in Hollywood, Co Down), launched a scathing attack on the Irish planning/judicial review system yesterday. "RJ McKinney has been trading for the last 120 years, mostly in Ireland," Mr McKinney declared. "Now, as a result of the recent planning objections, this will be our last development in Ireland."All told, it has taken us eight years of planning applications, frustrations and delays to come to this."

McKinney offshoot Coverfield will now focus instead on developing a factory outlet scheme in the Algarve.

Search continues for Dundalk man

2006-11-04T03:32:00.000-08:00

Up to 50 friends and family of a missing father of four are taking part in a search off the Wexford coast this afternoon.Navy divers from Cork along with coastguard units from Dunmore and Fethard are also involved in the search. 62-year-old Paddy Mc Cabe from Dundalk went overboard from the Boyne Harvester late on Wednesday night when he was about to start fishing for cockles.

Dundalk knocked off top spot

2006-11-04T03:18:00.000-08:00

Dundalk were knocked off the top of the eircom League First Division table after their first defeat in five months at Century Homes Park on Friday night.
The Lilywhites went into the game three points clear at the top but defeat in Monaghan, coupled with Shamrock Rovers’ win in Limerick, has seen them drop behind the Hoops. The only goal of the game came after just six minutes, Paul Smyth beating Chris Bennion after good work from Austin McCann. Dundalk, without 21-goal top scorer Philip Hughes, were unable to find a way through as second-from-bottom Monaghan held firm for a win which could have a major bearing on the destination of the First Division title race. John Gill’s side were reduced to ten men in the final minute with the dismissal of Robbie Dunne for a second bookable offence.

Drink driving up - Dundalk

2006-11-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

By Sheena Brothers Dundalk Democrat

LOCAL drink driving detection rates for the Halloween Bank Holiday weekend are up a shocking 35% on the same period for last year.

Inspector Martin Smethers, who heads the local Traffic Corps, revealed that 125 extra random breath test checkpoints were set up at the weekend."These were extremely successful yielding a 35 per cent increase in the detection of drink drivers on last year."Gardai also ran a series of special operations for the interception of fireworks and as a result uncovered a considerable number of illegal fireworks.

The largest seizure was a truck load of fireworks valued at €15,000, destined for sale in this jurisdiction, which was discovered by a checkpoint on the Newry Road."That was a particularly large seizure but we also discovered a number of smaller consignments over the period," said Dundalk Gardai.

Louth hospital receives boost

2006-11-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

By Anne Marie Eaton Dundalk Democrat

HOSPITAL services in Dundalk received a major boost this week with news that a state of the art ultrasound unit is to be installed at the Louth County Hospital.
The Louth County Hospital will be only the third hospital in the country to have this high speed scanner, joining St Vincent's Hospital Dublin and Cork University Hospital.The unit will be purchased by the Louth Hospital Support Group using funds raised by the recent CT Scanner appeal.Hopes are high that the ultrasound equipment will be purchased will be installed by the end of December.The Ultrasound scanner can perform up to 30 examinations a day and is used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis, gallstones, bile duct problems, pelvic and obstetric problems. Most biopsies can also be guide

Dundalk teacher dies in marathon

2006-11-02T18:28:00.002-08:00

Dundalk Argus

The sudden death of teacher Michael Morgan during the Dublin Marathon on Monday has devastated the community of Dromiskin where he lived and O Fiaich College in Dundalk where he taught.
And in a sad twist of fate, Michael was due to meet a publisher yesterday to discuss the printing of a computer studies book for second level students which he had finished writing earlier this summer.
Michael became unwell around 16 miles into the 26-mile marathon route and despite the best efforts of a doctor and nurse who came rushing from the crowd to help him, he died from a suspected massive heart attack.
Staff members at O Fiaich College were in a state of profound shock yesterday as news filtered through of Michael’s sudden passing.
Mr Pat Daly, the school’s vice principal, said Michael’s death was a huge blow to O Fiaich, where he had taught computer studies for almost 14 years.
He said, “I hardly could believe it when I heard it on Monday evening around 6pm and I can scarcely believe it now.
“We have been trying to contact staff members about it, but some of them, like principal Padraig McGovern, are abroad.
“There has been widespread shock at Michael’s death. He was a gentle giant of a man - both in physical stature and kindness. His passing has left a huge gap in the life of O Fiaich College”.
Mr Daly said Michael, who was married and in his early 40s, was heavily involved in health and fitness at the school, where he coached many underage GAA teams and took part in numerous extra curricular activities.
He had trained, like a number of other O Fiaich College teachers, for the marathon, over the past few months.
Mr Daly said, “Michael and a number of the other teachers had trained for the Dublin
Marathon. I’m not sure whether this was his first one or not, but he had been marathon training before.
“Michael was the last person that you would expect could die in this way - he was so fit and never complained of any medical condition before”.
Mr Daly also spoke of Michael’s warmth and generosity towards students at the college, where he taught PLC computer courses and was head of the second year.
He said, “Michael always encouraged young people to do better - to make the most of themselves.
“He was a great, positive role model and we would often see him gently talking to students, listening to them, encouraging them to be what he knew they could be.
“He was firm when it was needed, but he was renowned for his kindness, warmth and humanity”.
Retired English teacher, Iris O’Sullivan, said Michael was generous with his time and expertise.
She said, “When I retired in 2000, the staff bought me a computer and Michael came out to the house and set it up for me.
“That was the type of man that he was - nothing was too much trouble for him. He was very kind to everyone and he will be deeply missed.
“He was very involved in sport in the school and would regularly take part in extra curricular training and coaching. His job did not stop at 4pm”.
Mr Daly also spoke highly of Michael’s intellect. Prior to his death, he had a part-time lecturing job at the University of Limerick where he taught computer studies masters.
Mr Daly said, “Michael had a huge intellect. He was always bettering himself and getting more qualifications.
“He was extremely highly thought of as a teacher and there were certain subject aspects that Michael was the only one who knew about them and was able to teach them”.
Michael, who was married to Denise and from Dromiskin, had previously suffered family tragedy. His father died in a car accident a number of years ago, while his sister was killed getting off a bus near the family home.
Members of St Joseph’s GFC also paid tribute to Michael, who was a life-long member of the club.
Secretary Noel Neary said the club and the entire community was in deep mourning for Michael, who played on the 1990 team that won the Intermediate title and was a sub on the 1996 senior championship-winning squad.
Mr Neary said, “Michael played full-back on the 1990 team that won the Intermediate title and was an important part of the panel that won the senior title in 1996.
He said, “Michael was a very likeable, quiet fellow. He had a great interest in GAA and played all his football for St Joseph’s.
“He was so fit and healthy - it’s hard to believe that something like that could have happened to him. The whole community is in shock about his death”.
Club chairman and fellow teacher Tom Dooley described Michael’s death as ‘a very tragic event’.
He said, “Michael was a long-time player with our club and was very well-known and regarded. His death came as a terrible shock to us and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family”.

Community service

2006-11-02T18:28:00.001-08:00

Dundalk Argus
A 21 year-old Dundalk man was given a chance to serve a six month prison sentence in the community after Judge Flann Brennan heard a report conducted by Probation and Welfare Services was extremely positive.

Daniel McCormack, Clan Chulainn Park, Cox’s Demesne appeared to face charges of assault and trespass as well as public order offences at Park Drive, Dundalk on February 5th, 2005. Judge Brennan ordered McCormack to carry out 200 hours of community work in lieu of a six month sentence.

Murder suspects arrested in Dundalk

2006-11-02T18:25:00.000-08:00

TWO brothers were charged last night with the murder of a father-of-six near his home in a Dublin flats complex on Sunday night.

Warren Dumbrell (32) and his brother Jeffrey (26), both with an address at Emmett Road in Inchicore, Dublin, appeared before a special sitting of Dublin District Court at teatime.

The two men were arrested by gardai from the south central division at a house in Cox's Demesne, Dundalk, Co Louth, at 6.40 yesterday morning.

Monaghan V Dundalk team news

2006-11-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

League leaders Dundalk, unbeaten in 20 league games, are without influential midfielder Sean Finn who is suspended while top scorer Philly Hughes (hamstring) is most unlikely to be risked.
Trevor Vaughan comes in to partner Peter Hynes up front, though skipper Aidan Lynch (calf) remains out.

Dundalk to honour team of `81

2006-11-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Eircom League First Division leaders Dundalk have announced details of a 25th anniversary reunion of the 1981 team which took on Tottenham in the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
The Lilywhites class of ’81 went down to narrowly to Spurs over two legs, securing a 1-1 draw at Oriel Park before a 1-0 defeat at White Hart Lane. The players and management of that side, led by legendary League of Ireland boss Jim McLaughlin, will be honoured in the Lilywhite Lounge at Oriel Park this coming Saturday night, November 4th. Nostalgia-laden music will come from DJ Baz, with a hot buffet to be served. A limited number of tickets are available, priced at €15 each.

Call 087-6236800 or email colm.murphy@dfctrust.com for more details.

Explosives find becomes drugs find

2006-10-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Gardai have confirmed that what appeared to be a small explosives find in the Kilcurry area turns out to be a drug find. The drugs were found in a hold all at a road sign and it is believed that the bag was placed there for collection.

Lucky Dundalk move 6 points clear

2006-10-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

Dundalk moved six points clear at the top of the First Division table after a 2-1 win over a brave Kilkenny City side at Oriel Park.

The visitors were a massive 12/1 with some bookmakers to claim their first win since 19 May but they could not have asked for a better start as midfielder Paul Donnelly steered them in front after just three minutes when he flicked home Peter Higgins' corner from the right.
Indeed, the managerless Buckley Park outfit were unlucky not to be two up on 14 minutes when Willie Doyle got in behind the Dundalk defence before drilling across the face of goal.

The home side gradually got into the game and after Peter Hynes, Paul Marney and Philip Hughes all went close, John Gill's men finally found themselves level on 35 minutes when captain John Flanagan headed home from a Keith Dunne corner.

Dundalk started to dominate proceedings after the restart but were struggling to breakdown a stubborn City defence, with Aaron Mooney in superb form and former goalkeeper Aaron Shanahan denying Flanagan a second with a superb stop.
They finally edged in front on the 70 minute mark when centre-half Robert McAuley directed a header in at the near post from Sean Finn's delivery.

The Louth outfit are now six points clear of second placed Shamrock Rovers with just three games to play, although Pat Scully's men have two games in hand.
The Lilywhites' title ambitions took a blow 12 minutes from time, however, when top scorer Philip Hughes limped off injured.

Dundalk and Newry to become one city?

2006-10-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

Dundalk and Newry are being urged to come together to create the island's first cross-border city.
A conference in Dundalk has been told that such an approach is necessary in order to replicate the economic success enjoyed by Dublin and Belfast.Business leaders in Dundalk and Newry are being urged to join forces and hold an international design competition.

Dr Ed Walsh from the University of Limerick made the call during a keynote speech to the conference organised by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce.He says planning the new “bi-polar” city would take five years and cost in the region of four billion Euro.

Dundalk V Kilkenny

2006-10-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

Dundalk remain without skipper Aidan Lynch due to a calf injury as they hope to open up a six point lead at the top of the table.
Last week's terrific 3-1 win at title rivals Galway stretched Dundalk's unbeaten run to 19 games.
Kilkenny, seven points adrift at the foot of the table after a dreadful run that's seen them take just two points from their last 19 games, are without Peter Darcy and Brian King who are suspended.

Explosives find outside Dundalk

2006-10-24T17:07:00.001-07:00

A quantity of explosives has been found during a garda search in Dundalk, Co Louth.
It is understood that around 5kg of ammonium nitrate was found in a rucksack on waste ground during a routine search by gardaí near the town of Kilcurry.
Follow up searches have been conducted and are likely to resume again tomorrow.

Dundalk celebrate at Galway Utd

2006-10-24T11:28:00.000-07:00

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Thanks to Dealga for the video.

Return of the Tain Festival

2006-10-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

Click here to visit the site: Tain Festival Dundalk

Council houses in Glenwood

2006-10-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the area in Glenwood, Dundalk where the local council propose to build a small council estate within the private estate. Local residents are outraged that they have not been consulted on the council`s plans. Many residents believe that this will result in their properties decreasing in value.

Good news for Dundalk FC

2006-10-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

Eircom League First Division title contenders Shamrock Rovers have failed in an appeal against the three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player in a league game earlier this season.

The Hoops were docked three points for fielding Paul Shiels in a First Division game against Dundalk in July.

Shiels had picked up a suspension during his time with Dublin City and should still have served a ban following the Vikings’ collapse.

Rovers appealed against the decision, arguing that they should have been notified of the outstanding ban after Dublin City’s demise.

But their appeal has been dismissed, meaning they remain, ironically, three points adrift of Dundalk at the top of the First Division table.

Steve Staunton - A blast from the past

2006-10-23T16:08:00.001-07:00

Louth win Stateside

2006-10-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

Louth completed a memorable year when they easily overcame the challenge of a North American selection to win the inaugural Owen Treacy Cup in Boston Saturday.

Louth……..........3-20
North America…0-10

The NFL Division 2 and Tommy Murphy Cup winners never looked back after midfielder Martin Farrelly scored their first goal in the 12th minute. Christy Grimes and Ronan Carroll extended the Wee County’s lead to 1-4 to 0-0 before Cork man Gavin Wrenn opened the American’s account after 17 minutes.

The Exiles closed to the gap to four points, 1-6 to 0-5, at the interval, but the introduction of Darren Clarke and David Reid after the restart put paid to their hopes with both players bagging 1-4 apiece.

The third quarter was one-way traffic with Louth putting the game out of sight with nine unanswered points, making it 1-15 to 0-5. Wrenn pulled back a point from a free before Clarke and Reid both found the net to seal an emphatic win for the visitors.

Dundalk TV New Building

2006-10-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

Dundalk go top

2006-10-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

Skipper John Flanagan grabbed a vital brace as Dundalk returned to the summit of the First Division table as his side beat Galway United 3-1.
Dundalk made a dream start and scored early on much to the delight of their mammoth away support.
Sean Finn, prominent throughout, floated a glorious free-kick into the area and skipper John Flanagan glanced a delightful header into the back of the Galway net.
Tony Cousins' Galway side, unbeaten at home since September 2005, responded and created a gilt edged chance in the 38th minute.
Mick O'Donnell slung over a crisp cross which found Raf Cretaro at the back stick, but Chris Bennion smothered the winger's shot. Galway were struggling to attain their usual passing fluency as Finn bossed the midfield exchanges.
Frannie Carter, Conor Gethins and Dave Cooke did go close after the interval, but Dundalk doubled their lead in the 76th minute. Finn again provided the assist for Flanagan, who thumped a delightful header past the hapless Alan Gough.
Philly Hughes slammed home a third, but Philip Reilly grabbed a last gasp consolation for Galway.

Murder suspect arrested in Louth

2006-10-20T06:36:00.001-07:00

The husband of Rachel O'Reilly has been remanded in custody to appear in court next week charged with her murder.
Joe O'Reilly, who is 35, has appeared in Swords District Court following his arrest this morning at an address in Co Louth.
He was brought to Balbriggan Garda Station and charged with the murder of his wife.
The 30-year-old mother-of-two was found beaten to death at her home in the Naul, in north Co Dublin, on October 4th, 2004.
Gardai say Mr O'Reilly made no replay when faced with the charge of murder.
He arrived in court this morning chewing gum and wearing a green fleece jacket and black combats.
He was greeted by large crowds, who jostled and shouted insults.
Mr O'Reilly was remanded in custody to appear at Cloverhill District Court next Friday.

Doubt over Dundalk striker

2006-10-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

Dundalk manager John Gill has a doubt over 20-goal hotshot Philip Hughes for tonight’s big top-of-the-table clash with Galway United at Terryland Park.

Hughes is ten clear of the next most prolific marksman in the First Division – Galway’s on-loan forward Conor Gethins – and has plundered two goals in each of his last three games. The former St Patrick’s Athletic, Kildare County and Kilkenny City ace has scored the winning goal in two of the three previous meetings between the sides this season, both 1-0 triumphs at Oriel Park. However, he is rated doubtful for this evening’s big game with a knee injury and Lilywhites followers will be keeping their fingers crossed that he is passed fit to play. Striker Trevor Vaughan is on stand-by to replace him after recovering from an injury of his own, but captain Aidan Lynch remains sidelined by a calf problem.

Several local robberies

2006-10-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Gardai are investigating several robberies at local businesses. It is believed that the increased use of heroin by local drug abusers is one reason for the increase in local crime.

Nicholas Arthurs on the Newry Rd and the Ballymac service station were amongst the businesses targetted.

Previous use key to Castle Road plan

2006-10-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

By Anne Marie Eaton, Dundalk Democrat

DEVELOPERS who are hoping to develop an apartment block in one of the town centre's mainly residential roads must prove that the building has had a commercial history. A substantial number of residents are opposed to the plans which would see the development of a two storey office block on Castle Road and are understood to have lodged objections to the local authority.

A number of councillors, it would seem, are siding with the residents and are anxious to preserve the residential aspect of the road. Assistant Planner Karen Hamilton said that if granted councillors would be required to vote on material contravention of the residential zoning.She did say that the applicant, Neil Osborne, Jocelyn Place was contending that the building had been used for a commercial purpose but added that the onus is on the applicant to prove that the building had previously been used for commercial purposes.

"The applicant claims that the use of No 1 was commercial and are applying under previous use."Cllr Mark Dearey who proposed that the application be refused spoke out for the preservation of Castle Road as a residential area. "It's perfect preservation and entirely residential.

"Cllr Martin Bellew who said he would support Cllr Dearey's proposal to refuse said he had concerns about how the vote would be perceived by the public."It will go out to the people that we recommended refusal. I'm afraid that people will think this is an outright refusal. Councillors have no say in planning, we can only make recommendations. "Instead he proposed that the matter come back to the councillors.

Administrative Officer Jim Byrne replied: "If it is going to be granted it will have to come back to the councillors to vary the development plan if they can't prove commercial use."

Thank you Dundalk

2006-10-18T15:14:00.000-07:00

By Eunan Whyte, Dundalk Democrat

STEPHEN Staunton has sent a big thank you message to everyone in Dundalk for their magnificent recent show of support which he said had helped him through his recent difficult patch.
The Republic of Ireland manager came in for a lot of personal and professional criticism after a poor start to the European Championship qualfiers but has acknowledged that the backing of his home town has helped him come through.

Stephen has always been fiercly proud of his roots and was delighted that when it came to the crunch, the support from Dundalk was unwavering. He admits that it is something which helped him and his family through a difficult time."Once again, the people of Dundalk have been magnificent to me and my family. We took great heart from all the messages of support we received", said Stephen. "It's nice to know that the people of Dundalk are looking out for me and my family and that they are fully supportive of my efforts as manager of the Republic of Ireland. I hope I can repay their faith in me over the next few years."

Over 6,000 crimes recorded in Louth/Meath division in 2005

2006-10-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

By Tamara O'Connell, Dundalk Democrat

OVER 6,000 crimes were recorded in the Louth/Meath division during 2005 yet only 174 people from Louth and 137 from Meath were sent to jail

Overall the number of crimes recorded in the Louth/Meath Division increased by 10%, while crime detection rates in the region dropped by 3%, according to the 2005 Annual Garda Report. It also emerged this week that there has been a 99% rise in the number of motorists caught speeding in the district. In the first six months of this year, 2,832 drivers were caught speeding, compared to 1,417 in the same period in 2005.

Various types of theft accounted for the biggest proportion of the crimes documented in Louth/Meath last year. There were 3,104 thefts, 1,932 burglaries, 102 robberies and 228 fraud cases. There were 244 assaults, 117 sexual offences, 109 cases of arson, 72 drugs offences and 92 other types of crimes recorded in the region last year.

In Cavan/Monaghan there were 958 thefts, 490 burglaries, eight robberies, 121 fraud cases, 198 assaults, 61 sexual offences, 20 cases of arson, 56 drugs offences and 44 other types of offences. The detection rate of 44% in Cavan/Monahan which was higher than in Louth/Meath which recorded a 24% detection rate.

In 2005 there was one murder in both divisions. No manslaughters were recorded. Overall, there were 16,100 crimes reported last year in the Eastern Region with over 30,000 regional road traffic offences recorded. 113 people died on the roads in the same period.

ABB Dundalk claim top award

2006-10-18T15:06:00.000-07:00

A Dundalk company which makes measurement systems for the pulp and paper industry, ABB (Dundalk) was today presented with the Engineers Ireland CPD Company of the Year Award by Minister of State, Brendan Smith, T.D., at a ceremony in Dublin.

ABB Ltd (Dundalk) manufactures a range of sophisticated measurement & control systems for the pulp and paper industry. It developed new business systems in Dundalk that ensured the future of the local ABB organisation in the face of international competition, and resulted in taking over operations previously carried out in the Ohio and Vancouver offices of ABB.
There was also a €1 million plus expansion of the Dundalk operation, and the creation of additional employment.

Knockbridge retain title

2006-10-17T13:06:00.001-07:00

KNOCKBRIDGE retained their Louth hurling crown yesterday, defeating Pearse Óg at Louth Village.
The champions opened up a six-point lead and were coasting when Trevor Hillard struck a David Kettle cross past Stephen Smith towards the end of the first-half, but Mattie Boland threw Pearse Óg a lifeline before half-time when he turned in a John O'Brien centre.
Still, the Dundalk side trailed by 1-11 to 1-4 at the break, but took advantage of a strong wind in the opening stages of the new half.
Knockbridge didn't score until the 53rd minute as Pearse Óg closed the gap to four. With a minute of normal time left, Mark Rafferty made it a one-point game.
However, Donal McNally and man-of-the-match Ronan Byrne sealed the win with points in injury-time.

Dundalk out of bounds for suspect

2006-10-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

A man suspected of Real IRA membership was refused permission to go on holiday to Bettystown in Co Meath because a High Court judge thought it too close to the republican stronghold of Dundalk.
Lord Justice Shiel refused to vary bail conditions to allow Noel Abernathy (37) to go on a weekend break to the seaside resort with his wife and daughter because he said there was a risk he would use the holiday to visit or make contact with dissident republicans.
He said Bettystown was "quite close to Dundalk" and that was where "these people often meet".
Mr Abernathy was previously granted an amendment to his bail conditions to allow him to cross the border for a short holiday in Bundoran, Co Donegal, in September.

Inquest into fatal Dundalk crash

2006-10-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

An inquest into the death of two young people killed in a high speed crash in Dundalk, has been further adjourned – after the Louth County Coroner was told the families of the deceased, may want an independent expert, to examine CCTV footage.

The footage, from local businesses, and the Garda CCTV system, was first shown to the jury a month ago.19-year-old Mairead Boyle and 20-year-old Shane Hoey from Crossmaglen died on May 2nd last, when the BMW they were travelling in hit a crash barrier on a bend at the Long Walk Dundalk, shortly before three in the morning.The Coroner, Ronan Maguire, adjourned the inquest until January after solicitor Paul Tiernan, said there were up to 19 security videos that a number of stills, that his clients may have to have analysed independently.

Dundalk F.C.

2006-10-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

Dundalk General Manager Peter Halpin looks forward to Thursdays crunch meeting with the Independent Assessment Board regarding Dundalks entry to the Premier Division, should they finish top. Pete also previews Dundalks table top clash with Galway on Friday night, Dundalk have several injury worries. Click here

Dundalk hijackings, another suspect charged

2006-10-17T05:56:00.000-07:00

A 23-year-old man has been charged in connection with a day-long cross-border hijacking spree by a gang last month. The man, arrested in London at the weekend and escorted to Belfast, faces a total of 16 charges including robbery, hijacking, theft, assaulting police and making threats to kill. He is due to appear at Armagh Magistrates' Court later today.
A second man, arrested in London at the same time, has been released on bail pending further inquiries.A 31-year-old man has already appeared in court and been remanded in custody on nine charges related to the same incidents.Over several hours, a series of cars were stolen in Co Down and Co Armagh on 14 September. An elderly man had a rope tied around his neck by a gang who forced him to drive them across the border to Dundalk in Co Louth.
Earlier, a young mother fought with assailants when they tried to take her car with her young child still in the back. The crime spree began when a man, who had fallen asleep in a caravan at a woodland site in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, was assaulted and had his car stolen.
Gardaí believe the same gang - branded 'highwaymen' by local politicians - was also behind a later hijacking of a car from an 81-year-old woman who suffered a serious leg injury when she was dragged from her vehicle.

Stakeknife refused representation

2006-10-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

The tribunal investigating the murder of two senior RUC officers almost 18 years ago has refused to grant legal representation to Freddie Scappaticci.

The inquiry has been set up to investigate claims that members of the Gardai colluded in the IRA killing of chief superintendent Harry Breen and superintendent Robert Buchanan in March 1989.

The pair were shot dead in an ambush north of Dundalk while returning from a meeting with Gardai in Dundalk station. Judge Peter Smithwick today granted legal representation to the Breen and Buchanan families, the Garda Commissioner, retired detective sergeant Owen Corrigan and double-agent Kevin Fulton.

However, he refused permission for legal representation to Mr Scappaticci, the alleged British agent known as Stakeknife. Judge Smithwick said there was no evidence Mr Scappaticci would be called before the tribunal, but he was free to renew his application at any stage of the inquiry.

Tight at the top

2006-10-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

As a result of Shamrock Rovers winning last night they go top of the table on goal difference. Top spot is currently shared between Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers and Galway United all on level points.