DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Dundalk’s finest recognised at Civic Awards Page 4
Order of Malta reports 40% increase in duty hours in 2025
Coláiste Rís Student Council’s charity match for MND
Page 10
Page 10
Wednesday, 1st April, 2026. Vol. 19, Issue 13 • 9A, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 932 0888 | Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com
Ultan’s victory jig
11-year-old Ultan becomes a world champion in Chicago By Paul Byrne TALENTED dancer Ultan O’Kane who hails from the Blackrock Road in Dundalk, will return to Ireland this weekend as a World Champion having lifted the Boys 10-11 crown in Chicago at the World Irish Dancing Championships. Ultan dances with Scoil Rince Móna Ní Rodaigh which was founded by his grandmother Móna Roddy in 1970. Ultan’s mother Ciara and his aunt Dearbhla are both teachers in teh school and are two of the most celebrated dancers of their generation having danced in some of the world’s big-
ARD EASMUINN ROAD, DUNDALK. PHONE 042 935 7296. dunnesmonumental@gmail.com.
gest dance shows including Riverdance. The victory was extra special for Ultan as he became World Champion with his proud Grandmother Mona, mother Ciara and aunt Dearbhla watching on. According to Ultan’s father Michael, his son first started to dance at the start of the pandemic when he was just four years old. “We are all obviously very proud of Ultan. He’s a very active young fella and as well as dancing he plays soccer and Gaelic as well. He is very dedicated and would dance every single day. Continued on Page 2
Dundalk’s newest World Champion Ultan O’Kane with his proud Mother Ciara (right), aunt Dearbhla (centre) and grandmother Mona (left).
—OPEN— MON - FRI 9.30am – 5.30pm CLOSED 1pm-2.30pm (SAT 5pm)
EXTENSIVE RANGE OF QUALITY HEADSTONES ON DISPLAY - INSCRIPTION & RESTORATION SERVICE AVAILABLE