Six pier and harbour communities received a boost on Monday as €172,500 of government funding to upgrade and repair the areas across Donegal was announced. 

Darney Pier, Curransport, Inch Pier, Creevy Pier, Leharden Newbridge and Rutland Aids to Navigation will all benefit from the funding.

“The works will play a valuable role in bringing these locations up to a higher standard and developing them as amenities for fishing and leisure at sea,” Minister McHugh said.

The Local Authority funding programme forms part of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marines’ 2019 Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme.

The Department co-funds up to 75% of the total cost of approved projects with the Local Authority providing the balance.

Mr McHugh, Minister for Education and Skills, said: “These piers and harbours play a key part in supporting rural and coastal communities. The construction work will help sustain local contractors and the finished works will be vital for the development of fishing and marine activities.

“With this work, we are supporting local business, helping sustainability and opening the door to more tourism and leisure options on the Wild Atlantic Way.”

The following locations have been approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine funded Local Authority works 2019 and can be seen in more detail below. 

• Darney Pier, Bruckless – Re-grade and re-deck the slipway, safety signage and railings – €30,000
• Curransport – Funding for repairs on shore for the ferry service, safety signage and railings – €45,000
• Rutland Aids to Navigation – Provide 1 Starboard Hand marker and light to mark submerged rock outcrops in the channel at Rutland and indicate safe access to Burtonport – €22,500
• Inch Pier – Repairs to structure, signage and railings – €12,000
• Leharden Newbridge – Improve berthing facilities, safety signage and railings – €45,000
• Creevy Pier – Repairs on pier deck, signage, toe rails and railings – €18,000

Ten days of short term road closures are beginning today on the N56 Coolboy Kilmacrennan Road Scheme.

Donegal County Council has announced that the final road surface course is being laid on the route from today (April 1st) to April 10th.

Road closures will be placed for up to 2 hours on some local roads as the works pass the local road junction with the N56.

Signed diversions will be in place for motorists to follow.

The major €19m roadwork project, which has caused daily delays for motorists, is expected to be completed by Easter 2019.

Having already secured the Senior 1 title, Raphoe 1st XI still had an objective to remain unbeaten in the league.

Raphoe 7 Omagh 0

The Donegal side faced a challenging task in their final home game of the season against a strong Omagh team. Coach Richard Tinney was very aware of the strength of his opposition, having lost to them in the Senior Cup final and drawing in their away league fixture.

Both teams wanted to perform to their best in this local derby, as Raphoe wanted to display their strengthened performance after their last meeting and Omagh needed to secure 3 points for a chance at promotion.

The game opened with both teams struggling to settle in their own style of play, with mistakes occurring on both sides.

Omagh began to dominate by taking quick frees and creating swift movement up front.

The Raphoe side found themselves under pressure after conceding 4 consecutive short corners. However, the defence and Goalkeeper Heather Humphrey held the defensive line strong and cleared any opposing threats.

Raphoe were aware they needed to up their performance against this dogged team. Captain Sabrina Barnett began to dictate play from defence and used her experience to thread passes through the Omagh defence.

This led up to the opening goal of the game when she found Leanne Patterson on the run to the right side of the post. Patterson collected the ball and from a tight angle hammered the ball into the roof of the net.

This was the kickstart Raphoe needed to find their attacking form. Within 10 minutes Raphoe were able to further increase their lead by 3 goals.

The second goal came from a counter-attack after Heather Humphrey cleared the ball from a defensive short corner to find a free Leanne Patterson in midfield. Omagh were outnumbered in defence and defeated by a great passing manoeuvre from Patterson to Jasmine Tinney who found her sister Zara Tinney outside the circle. Zara used her speed to pull the keeper wide and swiftly passed it to Katy Love on the post who slotted it into the empty net.

The 3rd goal arose from a similar style of play down the left, where Wendy Patterson penetrated the D and squared the ball to Leanne Patterson for a quick slip to Love on the post who guaranteed the ball found the back of the net for her second of the game.

The final goal of the first half came from a quick free from Lisa Patterson on the left who found an eagerly awaiting Sabrina Barnett in the circle who made no error on her attack by striking the ball bottom right post.

After half time Raphoe were aware of the threats Omagh can still cause in their defence and this was evident in the opening stages of the half, as they gained several short corners against Raphoe. Vicky Wray, Julie Wilson and Janice Nelson worked tirelessly in the defence to ensure they maintained a clean sheet for the team.

Omagh struggled to get that final movement to add to the scoreline. Despite this, Omagh continued to work hard and ensured it would not be an easy half for Raphoe. However, Raphoe made sure to cease any opportunities that occurred for them by claiming 3 more goals throughout the half.

The 5th and 6th goals both came from short corners, firstly when Wendy Patterson collected the loose ball from a rebound and flicked it confidently past the goalkeeper.

The second short corner goal was a result of a well worked routine when Wray slapped the ball to Barnett to pull the defence wide, who then switched it left to Leanne Patterson who took a reverse shot to bottom left post.

The final goal of the game symbolised Raphoe’s teamwork and strong passing play on all areas of the pitch. Lyndsey Tinney received the ball from a quick free in defence, she moved the ball fast to Lisa Smyth on the right of the pitch.

Smyth timed her run and held onto the ball until her supporting forwards were moving into position for an option.

She found Wendy Patterson after a galloping run from midfield. Patterson ensured she added her name to the score line again with a strong strike through the keeper’s legs.

The game ended 7-0 and Coach Richard Tinney was delighted to gain a convincing result against a strong team who they previously struggled to turn up against.

Raphoe’s final fixture of the season is away on Wednesday 3rd April to Portadown.

Team – Heather Humphrey, Arlyne Kilpatrick, Sabrina Barnett (Captain), Victoria Wray,  Janice Nelson, Zara Tinney,  Lyndsey Tinney, Wendy Patterson, Lisa Patterson, Leanne Patterson, Lisa Smyth,  Katy Love, Julie Wilson, Jasmine Tinney, Rebecca Wauchope, Alison Stewart

A cloud of immense sadness has fallen on the Fanad community following the passing of Áine Friel. 

Ms Aine Friel, RIP

Ms Friel, who was an inspirational and popular local woman, died on Sunday at the age of 27.

She passed away peacefully at Letterkenny University Hospital.

Ms Friel had countless friends in her local area and beyond, as her positivity and passion touched the lives of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Born with brittle bone disease, Ms Friel was passionate about promoting equal rights for people with disabilities. She lived independently in Fanad and was also a keen ambassador for the area through her beautiful photography.

She was well-known for her bright smile, her upbeat spirit, her advocacy and, of course, her style.

She is predeceased by her parents Emmanuel and Margaret and her sister Shiela.

Her funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, 3rd April in her home parish.

Áine’s remains will repose at her home at Cashelprehan, Portsalon from 6pm on Monday evening (1st April).

Removal on Wednesday (3rd April) at 10.30am going to St. Columba’s Church, Massmount, for Requiem Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in the adjoining graveyard. Rosary each night at 9pm.

A memorial bench is being arranged for the Friel family. Donations in lieu of flowers will go towards the placement of this bench c/o Annette Curran or Mc Ateer Funeral Directors.

A Letterkenny family are celebrating after a father gave his son a €1m winning lotto ticket.

Odhran Doherty, who is just 23 years old, was given the lucky ticket by his dad Liam last weekend.

The pair are very close and work together on the family farm at The Glebe, Letterkenny.

The family never thought their numbers would come up but Odhran was left speechless on Saturday evening when he checked the numbers on the ticket and realised he was the only winner.

Dad Liam revealed how he had bought three lottery tickets in the shop, one each for himself and wife Margaret and one for Odhran.

Odhran was going to a party in the local Dry Arch bar at Bonagee that evening and called into the adjoining shop to check his ticket.

Speaking exclusively to Donegal Daily dad Liam revealed “He rang me and said the ticket had said he was a winner. He checked with the guy in the shop but they said it was too big for them to tell him how much he had won.

“He told me I had better come out. I thought it was an early April’s Fool joke or something. When I got out to him he came out of the party with his hands above his head and said he was a millionaire.

“I took the ticket off him for safe-keeping and we realised later there was only one winner of the one million euro.”

Mum Margaret says the family have been on a high since learning they won the jackpot.

“He simply couldn’t believe it at first but it soon sunk in and he was just so delighted. I have a pain in my neck from all the hugs he has given me.

“He’s a lovely big young fella and this will set him up now for life. We’re just so delighted for him,” said Margaret.

Odhran is the youngest of three siblings.

Eldest brother Shane is a pharmacist and has his own pharmacy in Manchester while sister Lana is a solicitor with a practice in Gorey, Co Wexford.

Having put the ticket in a safe place Odhran decided he would call in on Barclay’s shop in Raphoe where dad Liam had bought the lotto ticket.

Odhran spoke with owner James Barclay and asked him if he knew who the owner of the winning lotto ticket was.

Mr Bartley replied he had heard some rumours but didn’t know who exactly had won the €1 million.

Margaret added “That’s when Odhran stuck out his hand and told James Bartley that he was speaking with the winner. It sounds so funny but that would be Odhran alright.”

A former pupil of Woodlands National School and St Eunans College in Letterkenny, Odhran is big into farm machinery and a new vehicle could well be on the cards with his new-found wealth.

Mum Margaret added “We won’t let it go to his head. We’ll sit down as a family and we have two solicitors in the family so he won’t be short on advice.”

The small border town of Raphoe in Co. Donegal has claimed its third big National Lottery win of the year, with a local shop selling last night’s Lotto Plus 1 winning ticket worth a massive €1 million!

Barclay’s Newsagents in the Diamond, Raphoe, is certainly on a winning streak.

This is their second big win in recent weeks.

The sold a EuroMillions Plus winning ticket landing local man Charlie Meehan €500,000 in February.

And in an incredible run of luck the Centra Store in Raphoe sold the winning Match 5 Plus Bonus winning ticket from the Lotto Draw on Feb 28th – nabbing that ticket holder a cool €98,068.

Odhran’s one million euro winning numbers were: 8, 11, 16, 18, 20, 46 and bonus number 40.

Calls have been Fáilte Ireland’s new ‘undiscovered town’ scheme to be more flexible towards Donegal’s rural areas following a €15.5million investment announcement for 62 towns across the country. 

Through the scheme, every local authority in the country will be able to bid for funding of between €250,000 and €500,000 to develop up to two towns in their area which have the potential to become a ‘destination town’ for tourists.

However, in order to qualify for selection, towns will need to demonstrate their capacity and appeal to attract more international visitors to stay overnight – a key driver of spend.

Speaking on Monday, a local election candidate for the Milford, Maria Doherty said the scheme’s current rules don’t take into consideration Donegal’s rural landscape.

“This initiative is a good start in promoting tourism and helping local communities to expand their tourist footprint,” Doherty said. 

“The scheme is very restrictive in some ways as towns are only eligible if they reach a number of criteria such as a range of things to see and do for two days and a selection of accommodation and at least one visitor attraction of scale that can drive tourism demand and a range of food offerings. 

“The Milford area has all these but not in one town but spread across the region from Ramelton to rural villages and areas on our coast routes such as Fanad, Kerrykeel and Rosguill. 

“This scheme is a good start but it does not take into account the diverse tourist landscape in places like rural Donegal.

“We need to have a degree of flexibility as not all tourist amenities are grouped together around towns as is the case in the Milford area.

“We don’t have any public transport system so tourists will be driving to each area so it is important that this scheme is flexible so that tourists areas in rural Donegal can benefit.” 

Details of the criteria for the scheme can be seen below.  

To be successful in their funding submissions, Councils will be expected to identify towns that have:

• At least one visitor attraction of scale that can drive tourism demand.
• A range of things to see and do for two days – A town that hopes to attract overnight visitors needs to offer a variety of attractions, activities and entertainment options which can keep tourists engaged for more than 11 hours a day, including three hours in the evening.
• A selection of accommodation – Towns will need accommodation stock of at least 300 beds to become a seasonal destination town (and 1,000 beds to operate as a year-round destination) or be a town that has the potential to grow its bedstock in the future.
• A range of food offerings to meet the visitor needs including a range of options for light snacks, tea/coffee, lunch and dinner.

The number of people waiting on home help services in Donegal has doubled in the past year.

New figures from the HSE show that there were 215 clients awaiting a home help service in Donegal in January 2019, representing a dramatic increase from the 116 clients who were waiting at the same time in 2018.

Approximately 490 Home Help staff are currently working with 2,000 patients in Donegal. There are also 54 pending applications seeking assessment for increases or a new service.

These figures were obtained by Charlie McConalogue, who has called on the Minister for Health to allocate additional funding to the county’s Home Care Service.

Deputy McConalogue commented, “There is constant demand on the home help service in our county. On a consistent basis, there is circa 2,000 people availing of home help services. The majority of these would be elderly people who require the help to stay in their home and maintain their independence.

“The home help service is also a vital support for the many carers the length and breadth of our county. The support provided by Home Help workers assists them greatly in the care of their loved ones in the comfort of their own home.

“However, we are consistently seeing a situation whereby numerous clients have been approved homecare packages, but the staff and resources are unavailable to provide this. These vulnerable people are left waiting for a support that they have been approved for which leaves them and their families in very difficult positions.

“Furthermore, a properly funded home help service would relieve some of the pressure on our local community hospitals as well as Letterkenny University Hospital by allowing people to be cared for in their own home and by having the resources available to discharge certain patients from wards, thus freeing up much needed capacity in our hospitals.

Deputy McConalogue said that the rise in numbers of clients awaiting services points to the sustained demand for Home Help in Donegal.

“It is clear that additional resources and funding is required,” he said.

“The Minister and the Department must recognise the vital importance of this service and allocate additional resources to ensure that no-one is left waiting for this support. I will continue to raise this matter in the Dáil at every opportunity,” concluded Deputy McConalogue.

A new e-learning initiative has been launched which will enable Irish language students to access greater subject choices through virtual learning.

Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh T.D. launched the Gaeltacht Irish-medium e-Hub pilot project today at Gairmscoil Mhic Dhiarmada, Arranmore. He explained how the project involves online courses, taught through the medium of Irish by e-Teachers based in other Gaeltacht areas.

Minister McHugh said: “This innovative digital project will provide Gaeltacht post-primary students with the opportunity to access online a greater range of subjects through the medium of Irish.

“This three-year pilot project is based on comprehensive research completed on similar e-learning initiatives globally, where students supplement their existing curriculum with online courses, when those subjects are not available in their own school.

“This digital project will greatly enhance the capacity of Gaeltacht post-primary schools to extend their curricular provision for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).”

Planning for the pilot project commenced in two Gaeltacht post-primary schools from September 2018 – Coláiste na Coiribe in Galway and Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne in Kerry. Almost 50 Transition Year students participated in a five-week Transition Year Physics Module through the medium of Irish where they gained first-hand experience of virtual learning.

Following a tendering process, the consultancy firm H2 Learning is assisting the Gaeltacht Education Unit in the Department of Education and Skills in managing and co-ordinating this digital project.

The Minister said, “I am very pleased to be here today to launch this exciting innovative project. This project demonstrates the important role which information and communications technology (ICT) can play in extending the range of curriculum subjects through the medium of Irish for Gaeltacht post-primary students, including those who attend island schools.”

“I would like to congratulate all those involved in this project: officials of my Department, H2 Learning, the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST), An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta (COGG), SciFest and in particular the students and teachers who are involved in the implementation of the project in schools. I wish all those who will participate in the online Leaving Certificate Physics Pilot Project from September 2019 every success and I trust that there will be a beneficial outcome for all students involved.”

The online course will be taught by two Physics e-Teachers with experience in the teaching of Leaving Certificate Higher-Level Physics through the medium of Irish. The e-Teachers will be based in their own post-primary Gaeltacht schools and will teach students across a number of other post-primary schools in the Gaeltacht. Four schools have applied to participate from September.

Students who are participating in the pilot project will be supported by e-Mentors in their own post-primary schools. E-mentors are members of the teaching staff with science or mathematics expertise who will support students during the lesson times.

Feedback from those participating in the pilot Transition Year Physics module has been very positive, according to the Department of Education. Students and e-Mentors have reported that they have enjoyed and benefitted from the experience of learning at a distance in an interactive way during the Physics online lessons.

This online Leaving Certificate Higher-Level Physics will be entirely through the medium of Irish. Additional support will be provided to participating post-primary schools to include a grant for digital equipment and additional hours for e-Mentors.

St Johnston man and Irish football ace Ronan Curtis gave his mother, Marie, a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

Curtis played for Portsmouth in their win against Sunderland yesterday in the Checkatrade Trophy final at Wembley Stadium.

The Curtis family were in London for the big game, but in the days before the game Ronan treated his mum by cooking her favourite meal as a surprise.

“My mum’s so special because she’s always been there for me, somebody to talk to, somebody to guide me and to look after me,” Ronan, who moved to Portsmouth last summer, said.

“I am the blue eyed boy and the older ones get jealous!”

Ronan, who played as a schoolboy with Kildrum Tigers in St Johnston before moving to Swilly Rovers, embraced his emotional mum.

“Every mum maters. To me you’re the best mum in the world mum, so happy mother’s day,” he said.

Marie was taken aback by the ‘fantastic surprise’.

“I hadn’t got a clue this was happening,” she said in a clip captured by the EFL as part of its preview material for the final, which was shown live on Sky Sports.

“I’m so pleased and so proud. I love him to bits. We have a bond that’s just unbelievable.”

“That’s the ultimate present any Mammy can get!”
@OfficialPompey’s Ronan Curtis is busy today so he made sure he had a early Mother’s Day surprise ready for his mum!
#EveryMumMatters | #HappyMothersDay pic.twitter.com/katgiN6cn3

— EFL (@EFL) March 31, 2019

From National Lottery jackpots to regular Winning Streak appearances, it seems that Donegal people really are on a lucky streak this year.

Two Donegal people have brought home a cool €53,000 in winnings from last week’s Winning Streak gameshow.

Katarzyna (Katya) Galera, who lives in Bundoran, won €28,000, while Doochery man, Eamonn McCready won €25,000 on Saturday last.

Marty Whelan, Winning Streak game show co-host; Katarzyna (Katya) Galera’s wife who played on his behalf; Krzystof Galera the winning recipient; Jenny Fisher, Head of legal at the National Lottery and Sinead Kennedy, Winning Streak Game Show co-host. Pic: Mac Innes Photography

Katarzyna (Katya) Galera scooped a tidy sum of €25,000 in cash as well as a holiday to Venice, Italy worth €3,000. The winning ticket was bought from American House, Main Street, Bundoran, Co. Donegal.

Katarzyna and her husband Krzysztof (Krzys) are originally from Poland and have lived in Donegal for the past ten years. They were both working last Saturday night in their respective jobs so both missed Krzys’s name being pulled out of the Winning Streak drum by presenters Marty Whelan and Sinead Kennedy.

Katya works behind the bar in Madden’s Bridge Bar in Bundoran and noticed that she got text messages congratulating her. Some of her customers started saying congratulations too so she thought, being a friendly atmosphere in the bar, that it was a joke between staff and customers.

That was until her eldest daughter Olivia called her to ask what was going on as she was even getting messages from friends to say her dad’s name was called out for next week’s Winning Streak. She went to a neighbour’s house and caught the end of the show and saw her husband’s name on the screen and she started to believe the good news.

It was a while before she got the news to Krzys as he works as a chef and wasn’t able to take a call or reply to a message but both decided that Katya would go on the show in Krzys’ place. After all she was the one who sent in the ticket and put his name on it!

The couple have two daughters: Olivia is 14 and Emma (2) – who watched her mum on TV from home.

Sinead Kennedy, Winning Streak game show co-host; Eamon McGready the winning player; Jenny Fisher, Head of legal at the National Lottery and Marty Whelan, Winning Streak Game Show co-host. Pic: Mac Innes Photography

Getting on Winning Streak could not have come at a better time for Eamonn McCready, from Doochery, Co. Donegal, not because he is in need of the money but if it was any later, he wouldn’t have been able to go on the show!

Next Saturday, he will travel to Albania where he will work for the coming months, only getting home to see his family every six weeks or so.

Eamonn was watching the show on Saturday when his name came out and he still finds it hard to put into words, the feeling seeing his own name come out of the Winning Streak drum. All he remembers is his wife and two kids jumping all over the living room and screaming in celebration.

He has been married to Anita for the past 17 years and the couple have two kids: Jamie (15) and Rihanna (13) who were excited to cheer their dad on from the Winning Streak audience last weekend.

They were joined by an equally excited Donegal crowd, made up of some of Eamonn’s eight siblings. His sister Sile watched online as she lives in Watford, UK and his brother, Daniel, who works with Eamonn will be watching from Albania as he travels out the week before his brother.

Eamonn works as a supervisor for a tunnelling company called Terra Solutions, who are headquartered in Newry. Next weekend he will travel to Albania to supervise a project which he will be working on for the summer but hopes to make it home every six weeks to see the family.

Eamonn is a huge sports fan and loves Donegal GAA. He says that if he wasn’t on Winning Streak he would be in Dublin at Croke Park watching Donegal tackle Meath in the football that evening. He also loves rugby and soccer and is a huge Liverpool FC fan.

Eamonn has no plans as of yet as he says he is just going to enjoy every moment of the Winning Streak experience and whatever he wins, he will be happy with. It is the perfect way to spend his last weekend before he goes away with work.

Eamonn’s winning ticket was bought from Crolly Filling Station.

The Donegal duo’s appearance marks an amazing run for local contestants on Winning Streak. This is the sixth time in just seven weeks that people from the county have featured on the big money gameshow.

A Galway man who came to Letterkenny on a team-bonding exercise with his GAA team got very drunk and was arrested by Gardai.

Ryan Smith, aged 20, was arrested by Gardai after being a danger to the public and himself at Lower Main Street in Letterkenny on February 24th, 2018.

Smith, of Williamstown, Galway told Judge Paul Kelly at Letterkenny District Court that he did not normally drink but got very drunk during a team-bonding exercise.

Garda Sgt Jim Collins told the court that Smith was cooperative when arrested.

Judge Kelly asked the accused “Well, did the binding work. Is that the way you would behave in Galway?”

“I wouldn’t normally drink. I’m sorry,” said Smith.

Judge Kelly applied the Probation Act.

We’ve all had to keep our wits about us today as April Fools pranks are in full swing.

From this morning’s news headlines to local announcements, there was no shortage of bizarre stories trying to catch us out.

And Facebook was packed with ‘fake news’ from Donegal businesses.

Here are a few of our favourites:

Room with a view

Donegal auctioneer Boyd Robinson today revealed that he has the property of the millennium on his portfolio.

It has panoramic views, plenty of character and open plan spacing. This is going to be a historic sell:

Video via @Charlie Robinson EstateAgents

Boogie on the Border

Europe’s first cross-border nightclub is on the way, according to the enterprising owners of Pulse Letterkenny. They’ve announced plans to build a venue with the best of both worlds after Brexit, complete with a customs post.

Win a house – and a partner! 

The St. Eunan’s GAA Club Super Draw was brought to a whole new level today, with the announcement of an extra prize for this year’s winner.

Not only will the top prizewinner get the keys to a 3-bed house worth €200,000, but they’ll have a male/female suitor waiting to wed them too.

The St Eunan’s Draw takes place on Easter Sunday, 21st April, so if your dating life isn’t going well at the moment, it might be worth picking up a ticket.

You’re aving a laugh, aren’t you?

The Counter Deli in Letterkenny is a hotspot for coffee lovers and foodies who love avocado toast. But what happens when you mix the two?

This mean green concoction was allegedly added to The Counter Deli menu today, but we’ll let someone else do the first taste test:

Four Star unveil a ‘pizza’ their new product line

Four Star in Letterkenny are blending the best of their pizza ingredients into eyeshadow for a very unique new makeup line.

It’s set to be hotter than chilli peppers:

They’re on a roll at Centra

Centra stores across Donegal have reimagined the classic chicken fillet roll to add an extra special flavour. Plain, spicy or sweet? The choice is yours.

What was your favourite April Fools joke this year?

Is BLU for you? Do you crave the taste of success? Say ‘Yes I Can!’ because here at the Radisson Blu, Letterkenny we’re looking for people just like you!

At the heart of Radisson BLU is our Brand Promise – ‘Every Moment Matters’. We deliver memorable moments every day, everywhere, every time.

If you love a fast paced, inspirational environment, full of people who are powered by passion, then you are just what we need. Our people are talented individuals and team players with a flair for great hospitality.

VACANCY REQUIREMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Chef de Partie (3 days per week)

• Qualification in Professional and Practical Cookery with 3-4 years’ experience preferably in a fast-paced environment or with 4-star hotel experience;
• Be able to assist in the preparation of food to a high standard and to be able to guide junior staff in the kitchen;
• HACCP qualification essential;
• Must be passionate about food and focused on working to the highest standards.

Receptionist (4-5 days per week as agreed)

• Previous experience of working in a hotel reception essential;
• Provides a memorable experience to customers and guests;
• Experience using Opera desirable;
• Must have fluent English and excellent communication skills.

Food and Drink Assistant (4-5 days per week as agreed)

• At least one years’ previous experience of bartending and/or waiting essential;
• Ability to work a variety of shifts, including during week days;
• Delivers memorable moments to guests on a daily basis;
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of the food & drink menu items and promotes additional sales accordingly;
• Experience in Micros would be preferable.

Please email your CV in strictest confidence to lynn.mclaughlin@radissonblu.com

Radisson Blu is an Equal Opportunities Employer

How would you like to experience views of the magnificent Carrickfinn landscape from 12,000ft in the air – without a plane?

The No Barriers Foundation are calling on brave volunteers to take on a high-flying challenge this May Bank Holiday weekend.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to do a sponsored tandem parachute jump and see the amazing Donegal Airport from above.

Donegal Airport won the title of ‘World’s Most Scenic Landing’ for the second time in a row this month. So, if you’ve been dreaming about crossing this spectacular journey off your bucket list, this jump is a very special opportunity to do it in style.

The sponsored parachute jump will take place on 4th, 5th or 6th May 2019. If you are interested in taking part please contact the No Barriers Foundation on Facebook (click here) or email hello@nobarriers.ie

No Barriers Sponsored Tandem Parachute Jump at Donegal Airport

Money raised will go towards supporting patients who use the No Barriers Exoskeleton, which was purchased for the benefit of patients in Donegal through a community-led project.

Johnny Loughrey, Director and Lead Physio for The No Barriers Foundation said: “This year we are delighted to have two full-time No Barriers staff providing the Exoskeleton service for the Northwest

“Money raised via the jump will be used to help cover staff wages to be able to keep providing this service to those suffering from spinal injury, MS, brain injury and stroke around the North West for as low a cost as is possible for the Exoskeleton user.

“Any additional revenue will be used to help acquire new much-needed exercise equipment to create an inclusive gym environment in Donegal. This gym will allow wheelchair users and those with varying levels of mobility to train side by side with others within their community.”

See the exoskeleton in action with No Barriers service user Anita Jackson here: 

Taking part in the 2019 No Barriers parachute jump is one way to support this life-changing local project.

If you are interested please contact the No Barriers Foundation on Facebook (click here) or email hello@nobarriers.ie. 

For more information on No Barriers, visit www.nobarriers.ie

Donegal County Council gritters are to be deployed on all major road routes in the county from 9pm this Monday evening.

Temperatures are expected to fall below freezing tonight as forecasters warn of a risk of frost and wintry showers.

A Status Yellow snow-ice warning is issued for Donegal from midnight Tuesday to 12noon Wednesday.

Met Eireann has forecast sleet and snow showers in northern counties, mainly on higher ground but at some lower levels. Snow may lie in areas below 250m.

Temperatures as low as -1 to 3 Celsius are expected with widespread frost and icy patches.

There is also a chance of thunder with heavy downpours during the night.

Status Yellow Warning issued for Connacht, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford and Louth.

Valid from 00:00 hours Tue, 02-Apr-2019 to 12:00 hours Wed, 03-Apr-2019 pic.twitter.com/fZClWXkBz4

— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) April 1, 2019

Donegal County Council has advised that all main routes will be gritted from 9PM on Monday 01/04. Donegal gritting route index as follows:

• 06: Inishowen West
• 04: Inishowen South
• 01: National Primary North
• 02: National Primary Central
• 03: National Primary South
• 07: Milford South
• 08: Milford North
• 09: Cill Ulta East
• 10: Cill Ulta West
• 11: Na Rosa
• 12: Binswilly
• 13: Stranorlar North
• 14: Stranorlar East
• 15: Stranorlar West
• 16: Donegal West
• 17: Donegal North
• 18: Donegal South
• 19: Donegal National Secondary
• 05: Inishowen East
• BT: Buncrana Town Council Priority 1
• LT: Letterkenny Town Priority 1

Check Donegal County Council’s interactive map for gritting routes
Assume that no road is ice free.

Seamus McDonagh is really reaping the benefits of a horticulture course he recently completed with Donegal ETB’s Further Education and Training (FET) Service. The green-fingered Dungloe man is the proud owner of his own business – McDonagh Home and Garden Care – and loving every day of his work.

Things were a lot different just over a year ago, when Seamus had a busy job as a bar manager. He decided to make a change, so he left and decided to train up on something he truly enjoyed – gardening.

Seamus enrolled in a Level 5 Horticulture course with Donegal ETB in January 2018. He dug into the world of gardening over the next 11 months for full-time training at the ETB’s Letterkenny Training Centre.

“It was excellent, we started in January so you begin in the polytunnel with seedlings and see them right through the growing season. We grew everything – flowers, vegetables, trees and hedges,” Seamus said.

“You weren’t just growing. In the classroom we learned about soil technology and all the things that you never knew would come in handy when you’re growing.

“Once you get started into it you want to keep learning more.”

Former Donegal ETB learner Seamus McDonagh trained in Level 5 Horticulture from 2017-2018

Seamus enjoyed how varied the course was, as they branched out into sowing, caring for plants raising beds, cuttings, grafting, soil technology, propagation, cross-breeding, and plant history.

Another aspect of the programme which was a great advantage to Seamus was the business training. He learned how to create a business plan and run his own enterprise, which was his ultimate goal from returning to education.

Well-known Donegal gardener Gareth Austin was the course tutor, who Seamus said is full of expert knowledge and infectious enthusiasm.

Seamus enjoyed the emphasis placed on organic and natural gardening methods, while the work placement he completed at Glenveagh National Park opened his eyes to an exciting plethora of new species.

“The work experience was very hands-on. There’s so much going on in Glenveagh and I got to work with so many different plans and unusual plants,” he said.

Once he completed the course and gained his Level 5 QQI award, Seamus worked on setting up his own business, which was launched in January 2019. Now, he combines his horticulture qualification with his previous experience in the building trade to work on a variety of home and garden projects.

McDonagh Home and Garden Care

“I take care of everything around the home and garden. I do lawn care and lawn maintenance, so I won’t just cut the grass but I’ll show people how to look after it afterwards. I design and plant gardens and I’m growing some unusual plants myself that you wouldn’t find in a garden centre. If anyone needs a greenhouse built, I can do that or any odd jobs around the house.”

Seamus loves the new career path that has grown from his new green-fingered skills.

“It’s a pleasure, you enjoy what you are doing and you’re seeing the results of your work,” he said.

He added that he would 100% recommend the course to others. “If you have an interest in gardening it will help you learn so much more. It’s not just for business people either. If you like working in your own garden or want to get into vegetable growing it’s very worthwhile. I would tell people to just go for it.”

You can contact Seamus through his Facebook page McDonagh Home and Garden Care or call him on 087 267 2762.

If you would like more information on the Further Educational and Training (FET) courses provided by Donegal ETB, check out their course finder on their website https://www.donegaletb.ie/further-education-training/course-finder/

The Specific Skills Training course that Seamus completed is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Social Fund as part of the ESF Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning (PEIL) 2014-2020.

Letterkenny Pantomime Society in association with Letterkenny Gaels is staging Willy Russell’s legendary ‘Blood Brothers’ in Letterkenny Gaels’ clubhouse from Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 6th April.

‘Blood Brothers’ tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth because their mother cannot afford to keep them, grow up in completely different environments, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

‘Blood Brothers’ is one of those rare exceptions in that it continues to pack a punch after so many years on the road and still continues to draw sell out audiences wherever it is staged.

Louise Flanagan playing Mrs Johnstone is the show’s lynchpin. She is the twins’ resilient, yet heartbroken mother. Louise’s performance is packed with experience and raw heartfelt emotion.

She is a definite Mrs Johnstone. Sarah Terry Sweeney presents the upper class Mrs Lyons as a victim rather than a villain. She has a sense of longing and deep pain. Sarah, who has a wealth of stage expertise and experiences, plays the part of Mrs Lyons with real pain and fear in her eyes.

Mickey, the twin which Mrs Johnstone keeps, is played by Richard O’Leary who is making his debut with the Pantomime Society. Richard appeared in the St Eunan’s College/Loreto Convent production of ‘Footloose’ and was hailed as a natural for the stage. His portrayal of Mickey will have you in howls of laiughter and tears of sorrow.

Playing alongside him will be Conor Duffy as Eddie, also making his debut with the Pantomime Society. Both Richard and Conor excel in their pitch perfect transition from childhood to adulthood and they achieve a great balance between comedy and pathos.

Laoise Crossan is a very strong Linda and although this is Laoise’s debut on stage she certainly makes the role her own especially in the more dramatic moments in Act Two. She is both strong and versatile in this difficult role.

Daithi Doherty, with a foreboding sense of dread, is powerful and unsettling as the all knowing and menacing narrator. Daithi has been a panto regular for the past number of years and he is really looking forward to playing the part in this production.

Brigette Kavanagh, who gave a memorable performance as Mrs Johnstone in the L.V.P. production a ‘few’ years ago returns to play the policewoman in this production. She has also taken the role of assistant director and is loving every minute of being involved. Pantomime stalwart, Garry Coll, is also assisting in the direction and he finds time to play the milkman and gynaecologist and although they are cameo roles, he gives them the full Coll treatment. Pat Slattery and James Patton also make cameo appearances.

‘Blood Brothers’ is directed by Patrick Doherty, assisted by Brigette Kavanagh and Garry Coll. The set is designed by Paddy O’Connor and executed by Tommy Kerr while lighting is by Martin McDonald.

‘Blood Brothers’ tugs at your heart strings and never lets go. Yet, it is funny and warm as well as being heart-rending. You will be s moved and involved in this story that you will no doubt be booking a return ticket.

Tickets are available from Mac’s Mace, High Road; Sweeney’s Spar Express, Ballyraine; and from the Parochial House, Church of the Irish Martyrs. Tickets must be collected before 5.p.m. on the day of the show.

Early booking is advised as there is a limited number of seats available for each performance.

A new Design Guide for Ballyshannon will be launched next by Cathaoirleach of Donegal Municipal District Cllr. Michael Naughton.

This guide which has been developed by Donegal County Council working alongside the Ballyshannon Town & Village Renewal Group aims to help guide the maintenance, repair and restoration of historic buildings in Ballyshannon as well as inform how new buildings can best fit the streetscape.

Well known conservation architect Duncan McClaren will also attend the launch providing a presentation on the night.

Ballyshannon is a one of five designated Heritage Towns in Donegal and lays claim to the title “the oldest town in Ireland” and was created a Borough by Royal Charter on March 23, 1613.  The town was a prosperous trading centre or merchant town during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries when its main industries were flour and saw milling, tobacco manufacture, soap making, tanning, distilling and brewing. It was during the nineteenth century that many of the most significant buildings that characterise the town were built.

Speaking this week Cllr. Naughton said that “this Guide is the culmination of extensive work undertaken by the Council working closely with the Town and Village Renewal group in Ballyshannon and will assist in guiding the maintenance, repair and restoration of existing historic buildings, while also informing proposals for new buildings and infill gaps in the streetscape.”

Copies of the Ballyshannon Design Guide will be available on www.donegalcoco.ie and hard copies will be available on the evening.

The launch will take place on Tuesday 9 April at 7pm in Dorrians Hotel, Ballyshannon. Admission is free and everyone is welcome but booking is essential by emailing mmcelroy@donegalcoco.ie .

Some of the St. Eunan’s Under-10 Girls Team proudly wearing their new jerseys, kindly sponsored by Bluebird Care.

Making the presentation is Marty Kelly, Director of Bluebird Care Donegal and Leitrim.

Also pictured are Marty’s daughter Harper, coaches John Kelly, Paddy McTeague, Mossie McGeehin and his daughter Aoife.

The club, the parents, the coaches and the girls are very grateful to Bluebird Care Donegal and Leitrim for their sponsorship and look forward to wearing the black and amber in the very near future.

The team at Kelly’s Centra Mountain are seeing the positive side to new measures which show that the N56 Coolboy Kilmacrennan Road Scheme is nearing completion.

The final surface course on the major roadworks scheme is being laid out over the next 9 days.

This latest progress has been much-welcomed by the team at Kelly’s Centra, who have customer concerns to the fore.

Mairtin Kelly, owner of the complex, said: “We are happy to see that disruption will be minimal and the main road will not be closed at all. Small local closures will be placed for up to 2 hours at a time with signed diversions. These brighter evenings will make it easier for road users to follow the new routes.”

Mr Kelly has taken great interest in the roadworks over the past year. From talking to customers and hearing their concerns, he took it upon himself to speak with leading figures in the project this week.

He was happy to report that the next phase of works will not see the N56 closed at any times. While local roads will have temporary diversions, this will be at limited times and only during working hours.

“It was reassuring to hear that traffic is flowing as normal today, due to temperatures being too low for road resurfacing,” Mr Kelly said.

“Our team and our customers are excited about the route being completed, when we will all make positive savings on our journey times between Mountain Top and Kilmacrennan.”

The team at Kelly’s have stepped up on their award-winning services to ensure that customer experiences are quick and smooth at a time when road users faced travel disruption outside.

“Here at Kelly’s Centra, we wanted to make sure customers can get home as quickly and safely as possible, so over the last while we’ve increased staff levels up to 20% on to accommodate getting people served and on the road again,” Mr Kelly said.

“We’re conscious that the roadworks are on from 9am to 5pm, so we made Kelly’s a great place to stop by if someone wants to get a coffee or food on their journey.

“We’re always thinking about ways for customers to save precious time and our self-serve hot food counter has proven very popular. The new hot food counter is fully-stocked right up to 11pm at night, and we replenished the food regularly, so it’s a great time saver for people who can get fresh dinners on their way home.”

Kelly’s Centra Mountain Top

However, from customer conversations, Mr Kelly said he has become aware of issues stemming from drivers taking back roads to avoid the works.

“Some people using back roads have indicated that the potholes have damaged their tyres and alloys. Our forecourt attendants are here to help with that, while it’s good to see most people are now using the main road because of this information,” he said.

Mr Kelly commended the work of contractors on the €19m roadwork project, which is expected to be completed by Easter 2019.

He said: “There is great work being done by road construction crews to minimise delays.”

To celebrate the fact that the end is in sight for the roadworks, Kelly’s Centra are launching a special Easter Egg offer this Thursday and Friday April 4-5th. With three medium-sized Easter Eggs for just €3, it’s just the treat!