Teagasc Donegal held a very successful certificate presentation evening.

Both the Ballybofey and Letterkenny classes received their Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (better known as the ‘Green Cert’) on Friday night last in the Clanree Hotel.

An enjoyable evening was had recognising the work of all involved over the last two and a half years.

Courses are on-going for both the Part-time and Distance Education programmes and anyone interested can contact Teagasc Letterkenny on 074 9121555.

Conor Maguire and James Keane, Teagasc presenting Carla McCool, Student of the Year (Ballybofey Class) with her prize at Teagasc Donegal Presentiation Evening where Both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Photo Clive Wasson

At Teagasc Donegal Presentiation Evening where both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Pictured is the Letterkenny Class seated from left are Matthew Lecky, Richard Alcorn, Brendan McLaughlin, James Keane Teagasc, Barry Nelis (Student of the Year), Conor Maguire Teagasc, Aileen McCarron Teagasc, Michelle Harkin, James Cullen. Middle Row (L-R) Veronica Ryan Teagasc, Gavin Doherty Teagasc, Shane Gallagher, Damein Murry, Gary Boyce, Darren Crossan, Brendan Boyce, Eoin Boyce, Gary Fisher Teagasc, Kevin McMenamin Teagasc, Paddy Browne, Teagasc. Back Row (L-R)Michael Devlin, Gavin Browne, Michael Boyle, Raymond McGettigan, Neil O’Donnell, Donal Connolly, Joe McFadden, Tony Dixon. Photo Clive Wasson

At Teagasc Donegal Presentiation Evening where both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Pictured are the Ballybofey Class Seated (L-R)Veronica Ryan Teagasc, Matthew Lecky, Brendan McLaughlin, James Keane, Carla McCool (Student of the Year), Paddy Browne Teagasc, Kevin McMenamin Teagasc, Aileen McCarron Teagasc, Gary Fisher, Teagasc. Middle Row L-R: Gavin Doherty Teagasc, Patrick O’Donnell, Keith McKinney, Andrew Gallagher, Peter Campbell, Niall Bryson, Paul Boyle, Thomas Leitch, Fergal Mullen, Linda Doherty, Conor Maguire, Teagasc. Back Row L-R: Jeffrey McKinney, Michael Campbell, Kevin Gallagher, Patrick McGlynn, Barry Farragher, Derek Meehan, James McGettigan. Photo Clive Wasson

Carla McCool, Student of the Year, Ballybofey Class at the Teagasc Donegal Presentiation Evening where both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Photo Clive Wasson

Barry Nelis, Student of the Year, Letterkenny Class at the Teagasc Donegal Presentiation Evening where both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Photo Clive Wasson

Teagasc Staff at the Teagasc Donegal Presentiation evening where both Ballybofey and Letterkenny Classes received ther Level 6 Certificates in Agriculture (Geeen Cert) on Friday nigth last in the Clanree Hotel. Front from left Paddy Browne, Veronica Ryan, James Keane, Donegal Sligo Leitrim Area Manager, Aileen McCarron, Gary Fisher. Back from left Conor Maguire, Kevin McMenamin, Gavin Doherty, Matthew Lecky, Brendan McLaughlin, Johann Downes. Photo Clive Wasson

A call has been made for immediate funding to address a backlog in applications for the Cross-Border Directive.

Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal, Charlie McConalogue, has said that the request for additional resources by the Cross-Border Directive team must be approved immediately by the Minister for Health and the HSE.

The HSE revealed that there are currently 3,500 applications for reimbursement and prior authorisation waiting to be processed. It is taking approximately 13 weeks to process applications.

Deputy McConalogue said that Cross-Border team have been proactive in their approach to seeking additional staff and resources due to a rapidly increasing demand on the service.

“The cross-border directive provides people who are languishing on waiting lists with an alternative option by giving them the opportunity to avail of health services in another European country. They can then recoup costs from the HSE for the amount of that treatment in Ireland, or the cost of the treatment abroad, if that is less,” Mr McConalogue said.

“However, their requests have been met by radio silence from the HSE and the Minister while patients are left waiting on reimbursements which in many cases can be thousands of euros.”

McConalogue said the delays are “unacceptable” and “indicative of how the health system is run under our Government in that a scheme that aims to relieve the pressure on the public waiting list is also under resourced.”

He called on the Minister and HSE to come together to approve this funding request.

A 30-YEAR-OLD Convoy man broke into his ex-partner’s home and hacked holes in a bedroom door after chasing the terrified woman upstairs.

Andrew Laird, of Miltown, Convoy, was arrested on Sunday, June 16, on suspicion of a burglary at 4 Ard Tu Marie, Townparks, Convoy.

Gardaí objected to bail for Laird.

Letterkenny District Court heard that Laird entered his ex-partner’s home by smashing a kitchen window.

“He chased his ex-partner up stairs and hacked holes in a bedroom door with a sharp object,” Sergeant Jim Collins told the court.

“She clearly identified him in a statement of complaint. He was known by the injured party, who was his ex-partner.

“The most serious objection is the likelihood of interfering with witnesses. The injured party has expressed fears that he will return. She indicated that he attempted to phone her the morning after the incident and she blocked his number,

“She expressed fears that he will continue to contact her and interfere with her as a witness.”

The court heard that Laird, who Gardai said resides most of the time with his elderly grandmother, lives a short distance from the woman.

Solicitor for the defendant, Frank Dorrian, said that ‘an appropriate undertaking’ could address the anxiety of the victim.

“Very few people would be on bail if those were the grounds – there can be an undertaking that he stay away from the premises,” Mr Dorrian said.

Laird’s mother, Joanne, appeared in court and indicated that her son could stay with her, provided that he ‘clean up his act and maintain sobriety’.

Mr Dorrian said his client would have to ‘demonstrate two weeks of sobriety and then start the initiation process’.

Sergeant Collins said Gardaí had ‘grave concerns’.

He said: “Damage was done to the bedroom door. She fled upstairs and he attacked the door in lieu of her. His mother lives in Convoy as well, a five-minute walk away.”

Judge Paul Kelly granted bail to Laird on condition that he reside at 46 Beechwood Grove; that he comply with a request to attend his GP for referral to White Oaks; that he have no contact, direct or indirect, with the complainant or any witnesses; and that he undertake not to enter the Art Tu Marie estate.

The case was adjourned until the September 20 sitting of the court.

RORY KAVANAGH was very much the elder statesman for St Eunan’s on Sunday, but the former Donegal star is relishing the role of guiding the black and amber’s emerging crop.

A fine 3-14 to 2-9 win over Gaoth Dobhair on Sunday showed the promise of Richard Thornton’s team.

Both teams were shy several regulars, but Kavanagh believes now is the time for the teeth to cut.

“You have to see who you can trust in the Championship,” Kavanagh told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.

“You need to know that they’ll stand up in the heat of the battle.  Especially against teams like Gaoth Dobhair, you have to see if they can go out and perform.”

“It’s changed times. There aren’t as many recognisable faces in there. It’s good. There is plenty of talent coming through. We have to give these boys time to develop and find their feet. It won’t happen overnight.”

Eóin McGeehin was the hat-trick hero for St Eunan’s, who twice held an 11-point lead in the game.

Kavanagh said: “We were very economical. That was one big positive. Teams don’t give away too much, but that was positive for us because we had so many young guys on the field.”

Listen to the full interview below …

The Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG) is appealing to everyone attending the Joule Donegal International Rally this weekend to stay safe on the roads and to be respectful of everyone using the roads.

This appeal comes as rally organisers join forces with Donegal Joint Policing Committee and An Garda Síochána to encourage all those attending the rally to ‘Respect the Rally’ and comply with a few simple rules.

These are to drive safely & respect other road users; never drink and drive; respect residents; keep noise levels down at all times; keep the race in its place and; take your litter home.

Brian O’Donnell, Road Safety Officer said the DRSWG is committed to promoting road safety.

He said “Large numbers will arrive in Donegal to attend the rally and also to enjoy everything Donegal has to offer and we want to emphasise the importance of safety, both on the rally course and on the public roads.

“Followers of the rally need to be reminded to watch the stages from safety areas, always stay within the speed limits and drive at a speed appropriate to the weather conditions and allow plenty of time to arrive safely at your destination.

“Unfortunately there are also those who drive dangerously and who have no interest in the rally and are only intent in causing trouble for the Gardai and ordinary members of the public who use the roads. We would appeal to everyone attending the rally, that safety on our roads is paramount and should always takes precedence above everything else. Please, keep the race in its place”.

Keep the Race in its place – that’s the message being promoted by Donegal Road Safety Working Group and the Donegal Joint Policing Committee for this weeks Joule Donegal International Rally. Picture includes Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nicholas Crossan, Inspector Michael Harrison, Donegal Road Safety Working Group, Brian O’Donnell, Donegal Road Safety Officer, Brian Brogan, Donegal Motor Club, Cllr. Gerry McMonagle, Donegal Joint Policing Committee, Seamus Neely, Donegal County Council with members of the Donegal Motor Club and Donegal Youth Council. Photo Clive Wasson

Inspector Michael Harrison said An Garda Síochána is appealing to all those coming to County Donegal for the rally weekend to show respect for residents in Donegal and not engage in anti-social behaviour on the roads.

He added “We have a major policing operation in place and those found breaking the law will be dealt with in the appropriate manner. Our objective is to have a weekend where there are no fatal or serious injury collisions. We will be testing drivers for drink and drug driving and finally I would ask everyone using the roads not to speed, never to use a mobile phone while driving, always wear a seatbelt and never drink or drug drive.”

Cllr Gerry McMonagle Chair of the Donegal Joint Policing Committee is looking forward to welcoming rally enthusiasts to Donegal saying that “these messages are about making sure that the rally can be enjoyed by spectators and locals in a safe and respectful way”.

“This rally is unique to Donegal and is the only 3-day tarmac rally in Ireland and the UK. The rally organisers do a great job year in year out organising this top class event and we in the Joint Policing Committee and Donegal County Council want to lend our support to them by helping to share a few simple messages so that the rally can be thoroughly enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.”

A young Donegal man has loaned his acting talents to the HSE to help them launch an innovative Health Passport for people with Intellectual Disabilities in Ireland.

Paul Gallen from Termon took on a thrilling role in the high-octane ‘Mission: Possible’ film, which premiered today.

In the film, the 22-year-old has a huge mission to complete – educate the world about the new HSE Health Passport.

No challenge is too big for Paul, who employs all his spy skills and daredevil talents to get the word out.

Watch the movie here:

The short film, created by the Donegal-based Re-Act Productions, will be shown nationwide to families, carers and healthcare staff to launch the HSE Health Passport.

The document aims to support children and adults with Intellectual Disabilities and/or communication difficulties, allowing them to write in their individual abilities, medical history and personal needs to ensure staff can provide better care and understanding.

Paul proudly launched his debut film to a packed screen at Century Cinemas Letterkenny today (Tuesday).

Dr Siobhan O’Halloran, Chief Nurse, Department of Health and Paul Gallen officially launch Mission:Possible in Century Cinemas Letterkenny

When asked about his experience in the movie, he said: “I enjoyed it, I loved it.”

Paul added that he was “not afraid” while filming the demanding and explosive scenes, which take place around Letterkenny University Hospital.

“I was brave,” Paul said.

Re-Act Producation filmmakers Ciaran McCann and Shaun Doogan with Paul Gallen at the Mission:Possible premiere in Century Cinemas Letterkenny

Paul’s work has already had a presidential seal of approval. On Sunday, the Donegal man was invited to Áras an Uachtaráin to present the HSE Health Passport to President Michael D. Higgins.

The HSE Health Passport has been praised as an innovative and creative approach to communicating the diverse needs of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities.

Dr Gerry Lane, Consultant at the emergency department in LUH, was one of the many heathcare professionals who welcomed the project. He said: “This is one of the best things I’ve seen in 19 years in health services locally.”

Dr Gerry Lane at the launch of HSE Health Passport and ‘Mission:Possible’ premiere in Century Cinemas Letterkenny

Dr Lane added that the HSE Health Passport gives a voice to everyone and forces healthcare workers to retune their minds to hear what a person with Intellectual Disabilities wants to communicate.

The HSE Health Passport will be rolled out across all hospitals in Ireland, with the help of Paul Gallen communicating the message of its importance.

Fine Gael Minister Joe McHugh has said Fianna Fáil’s climate and environmental policy threatens major road projects like the A5.

The Minister for Education and Skills hit out after comments by Deputy Timmy Dooley on the radio this morning in relation to prioritising Government spending away from the national roads programme.

This follows on from Fianna Fáil’s support in recent days of a Green Party/Social Democrats motion to delay or cancel key parts of our regional investment under the National Development Plan (NDP).

Minister McHugh said: “We now know from the comments and actions of senior Fianna Fáil members that they are looking at taking a swipe at funding for key roads projects given half a chance.

“Mirroring the strategy of the Green Party, Fianna Fáil’s Timmy Dooley said today that the national roads programme should be reprioritised. That’s an interesting word.

“Fianna Fáil need to tell us which road projects they would like to abandon? I hope for the sake of Donegal, it’s not our much-needed A5 which will begin later this year.

“This is a crucial route for those travelling from the north-west towards Dublin, for people living and working in Donegal, for those doing business, for tourism, for hauliers, farmers, fishermen and for regional growth.

“And I hope the opposition isn’t thinking of the Bonagee bypass or the EU backed works planned for the N15/N13 Ballyybofey/Stranorlar region; the N56/N13 Letterkenny – Manorcunningham; or the N14 Manorcunningham – Lifford/Strabane link.

“Fianna Fáil called for a 2:1 spend on public transport over roads. With Fine Gael in Government we are already spending big on public transport and cycleways, greenways all feature heavily in the NDP and the Climate Action Plan.

“But we still need roads and we are committed to continuing the maintenance and improvements of our road network.

“We believe there will be 1 million electric vehicles by 2030 and we will need continued investment in roads.

“You’d really have to question how serious Fianna Fáil is about major national roads and transport projects.

“It is not just about building new roads, it is often about maintaining and improving our current network, like the top-class improvements we made all along the N56 in Donegal and also at the Blue Banks near Letterkenny.

“Are Fianna Fáil against improving road safety? Are they against meeting the needs of isolated rural communities? Fianna Fáil need to be clear with the public in relation to their stance on this.

“If Fianna Fáil return to Government, which of our crucial road projects are they considering reprioritising,” Minister McHugh asked.

Cyber Risk Aware Ltd is currently recruiting a Cloud Application Support Analyst.

The Letterkenny-based company is looking for someone with a passion for customer support to assist us in continuing to provide our clients with the premium level of service they have become accustomed to.

The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 1 year experience working in customer service, be well organised with good IT skills, attention to detail and have excellent customer service skills.

Responsibilities to include:

• Provide daily operational cloud application support to our Global Clientele, by email and phone if required.

• Support new client onboarding and training• Logging and answering customer technical issues• User manual \ knowledge base maintenance

• Support Analysis and Report generation Personal traits/skills• Excellent problem-solving skills

• Strong customer service ethos• Strong communications skills

• Excellent organisational skills

• Ability to quickly establish good working relationships with clients

• Willingness to work unsociable hours/weekends

• The ability to prioritise your workloadEssential Requirements

• I.T. Related Qualification• Previous experience in a customer service\support role environment

Desirable

• ITIL Certification

• Previous Experience in application support

Job Type: Full time

If you think you would be suited to this role, please send CVs to careers@cyberriskaware.com

The 2019 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award recipients were unveiled today by Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr. Nicholas Crossan.

The four notable members of the diaspora set to receive this prestigious award in September are author and playwright Frank McGuinness; Dublin based businessman Pat Doherty; US-based attorney Patrick C. Dunican Jr, and; US-based businessman Daniel J. Hilferty.

Speaking today Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nicholas Crossan said he was delighted that Donegal County Council working with the Tip O’Neill Awards Committee is recognising four members of the broad Irish Diaspora for their achievements and their interest in, and support of the Irish community.

He said “each year the award recipients are always deserving of recognition for their achievements and this year is no different. All four recipients have found success at the top of their field, and this year is particularly special for me with fellow Inishowen men being recognised by Donegal County Council.

“Their achievements speak for themselves and I am delighted that we in Donegal County Council, through the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award, are in a position to honour the outstanding contributions made by all four worthy recipients.”

He added, “I would also like to pay tribute to the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award Committee who give of their time so willingly to ensure that we can honour these people who have such strong links with Ireland and indeed Donegal.”

Frank McGuinness

Frank McGuinness

A native of Buncrana, author and playwright Frank McGuinness is best known for his plays including The Factory Girls, Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme, Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me and Dolly West’s Kitchen. He was educated locally in Buncrana and studied Pure English and Medieval Studies at University College Dublin. Professor McGuinness retired last year from University College Dublin where he lectured in English. He is celebrated as one of Ireland’s greatest living writers.

Pat Doherty

Pat Doherty

Employing over 500 staff across the local community and generating over €100M in revenue in Donegal over the last 10 years, Pat Doherty “The Donegal Man” has never forgotten his roots returning to Buncrana regularly. He takes great joy in reinvesting in Donegal with substantial redevelopment projects such as the Letterkenny Shopping Centre, Redcastle Hotel and Spa and in more recent years in the only five-star Hotel in Donegal, Lough Eske Castle.

Patrick C. Dunican Jr

Patrick C. Dunican Jr

Patrick C. Dunican Jr is Chairman and Managing Director at Gibbons Law Firm, based in Newark, New Jersey. He is recognised not only as a leader in the legal industry but also as a community leader in the United States. Elected Managing Director in 2004 at the age of 36, he has transformed Gibbons into a major force in the Mid-Atlantic legal market. Mr. Dunican’s four grandparents emigrated to the United States from Counties Donegal, Sligo, Offaly and Mayo.

Daniel J. Hilferty

Daniel J. Hilferty

Daniel J. Hilferty is Chief Executive Officer of Independence Health Group, parent of Independence Blue Cross, one of the leading health insurers in the US. Since becoming CEO in 2010, the company has tripled in size, expanding through its affiliates to 25 states and the District of Columbia, and serving nearly 8 million people across the US.

All four will be honoured at the Gala Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Ceremony in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel, Buncrana on Friday September 27th.

Chief Executive Seamus Neely said that he was very much looking forward to welcoming these special guests to Donegal in September saying “the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards ceremony is a very important highlight in the Council’s calendar of events. These awards were introduced as a fitting tribute to honouring on of Donegal’s most illustrious sons ‘Tip O’Neill’ and have become an important way for us to recognise and acknowledge the outstanding achievements and contributions made by the Irish diaspora across the globe.

“I am very much looking forward to welcoming this year’s recipients to Donegal and I am delighted that they are in a position to accept this award honouring and recognising their outstanding achievements as prominent members of our diaspora”.

The Tip O’ Neill Awards weekend, which will include the Tip O’Neill Golf Challenge on Saturday September 28th September at the award winning Ballyliffin Golf Course, will kick start the first ever “Donegal Connect” initiative. Donegal Connect is aimed at encouraging Donegal Diaspora to come to Donegal to find out for themselves why it is a great county to grow up in, be educated in, work and invest in or retire in. The programme will run for 10 days beginning on September 27th until October 6th and will have something for everyone. Further information is available on www.donegalconnect.com

Tickets for the Gala Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Ceremony in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel, Buncrana on Friday September 27th are available for sale at www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal.

Gweedore Fire Station is set to be provided with a new fire engine in the coming weeks.

The new Class B Fire Engine will replace the current 15 year old unit.

Sinn Féin TD for Donegal Pearse Doherty has welcomed news of the allocation. He said: “I understand funding has been approved and the engine is under construction and will be assigned to Gweedore. This will replace a 15 year old vehicle.

“The crew and staff of Gweedore Fire Station keep our community safe and deserve the best and most up to date equipment. I am delighted the new engine will be delivered before Summer.“

Parks Tennis, one of Ireland’s largest and most popular tennis programmes, is returning to five venues across Donegal this summer.

Children love these low-cost active camps which cater to girls and boys between 5 and 17 years during the month of July. Participants will enjoy learning new skills and making friends in a fun environment. Bookings will take place this Saturday, 22nd June (details below).

Coaching is provided over 4 weeks from 1st to 26th July, so it is fantastic value as all equipment is provided.

Donegal Parks Tennis Camps will take place at:

• Rathmullan Tennis Club
• Ramelton Tennis Club
• Buncrana Tennis Club
• Culdaff Tennis Club
• Letterkenny Tennis Club

Fee:  Any two weeks for €30 per child or family rate €80

Registration: Secure your child’s place at the above venues on Sat 22nd June 12 noon – 1.30pm

Enquiries: Mary 087 9773957 or marytbarry@gmail.com

Parks Tennis welcomes all children irrespective of previous tennis experience and prides itself on a child-centered approach with a focus on enjoyment and participation.

The emphasis throughout all programmes is on:

• structured tennis sessions combined with fun and games

• teaching new tennis skills

• making friends in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere

• providing a thoroughly enjoyable overall experience

• introducing a sport for life

Parks Tennis invites your children to enjoy what may well be a new sporting experience at a very affordable cost.

Contact   Mary 087 9773957 or marytbarry@gmail.com for further information.

Bundoran native Ann Keenaghan and her son Ruairí McKiernan have opened up about their spiritual beliefs and reawakening for a new documentary on RTÉ.

The mother and son shared their experiences of Qi Gong and mindfulness respectively in the Divorcing God documentary which aired recently on RTÉ One and is available to watch on the RTÉ Player.

In it, comedian and journalist Oliver Callan travels around Ireland interviewing different people on the topics of religion and belief.

Two years ago, on a flight to China to visit her son Seán Óg, Ann Keenaghan got chatting to a Chinese man who was seated beside her. It turned out that the man, Dr Shaofan Zhu, was a world-renowned doctor and master of the ancient Chinese practice of Qi Gong. Ann became immediately interested in Qi Gong, having already studied Kinesiology, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine.

Qi Gong is a holistic system of body postures and movement, breathing and Taoist meditation. So began her journey to learn more and to begin training as a Qi Gong instructor.

Oliver Callan and Ann Keenaghan on Divorcing God: RTÉOne

Ann has brought Dr Zhu to Ireland twice to deliver workshops in Qi Gong and they have proven popular with people from throughout Ireland, including Donegal. She is currently preparing to welcome him for his third visit in July. She says the growing interest in Qi Gong among people of all walks of life is partially driven by an appetite for deeper spiritual connection.

“Qi Gong can bring your energy into balance if you keep doing it, and can bring you into wellness,” she tells Oliver Callan in the 1-hour documentary.

“By the time you finish doing all the movements while paying attention to your body, your mind becomes calm. It has been passed down in China for thousands of years and has played a huge role in keeping the Chinese healthy” she adds.

Oliver Callan and Ann Keenaghan on Divorcing God: RTÉOne

Ann’s son Ruairí McKiernan also features in the Divorcing God documentary. Ruairí is a charity founder and social campaigner who recently completed a 7-year term on the Council of State. He has also been a practitioner and advocate of meditation and mindfulness for over a decade and previously contributed a chapter on their benefits in Sr Stan’s book Seasons of Hope.

He says a sense of spirituality is an important part of life for him and that this doesn’t require a belief in any particular religion.

Oliver Callan and Ruairí McKiernan on Divorcing God: RTÉOne

“Something is missing in the realm of the soul. In some ways, the dominant religion now is the religion of the market, the religion of capitalism, the altar of consumption, money, image, fame, success.” Ruairí says in the documentary.

“There’s a lot of dysfunction, disease, loneliness, depression, suicide, and something is not right. I see people exploring Eastern traditions and pre-Christian traditions and maybe there’s a beautiful thing to emerge from the convergence of east and west.”

“Life is evolving, belief is evolving, and we need to be brave enough to evolve with it,” Ruairí adds.

Both Ruairí and Ann’s appearances in the documentary caught the attention of RTÉ broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan who tweeted her praise of mother and son.

Divorcing God also hears from a variety of voices with different views on religion and spirituality. These include atheists, academics, and a survivor of clerical abuse.

Divorcing God is available to watch until mid-July on the RTÉ Player. www.rte.ie/player/movie/divorcing-god/102644776272

THE FINN Valley Vikings returned 13 gold medals and competitors broke one world and two European records.

The WPC AWPC European Powerlifting Bench Press and Deadlift Championships were held in limerick with over 440 lifters from over 12 countries taking part.

In the drug-tested side, the AWPC, Edyta Piechowicz was up first on Tuesday in the full power winning gold in the 67.5kg category.

Edyta was up again on Thursday, this time in the bench press again winning gold.

Bosco Reid also won gold, while coach Mick Coleman also won his bench press and also won best lifter in the masters division.

In the deadlift, 13-year-old Jake Coleman won gold and set an Irish record with a lift of 90kg, Luke Thompson, at 14 years old, won gold and Bosco Reid brought his total golds to two for the Championships.

Edyta Piechowicz also won gold in the deadlift bring her golds to 3 for the championships.

Caroline Dolan won gold in the deadlift, setting a new Irish record, a new European record and winning a best lifter award.

On Friday it was the non-tested side the WPC with Paulina Coleman in the full power winning gold and setting three new Irish records.

Sunday was the final day with Paulina and Mick Coleman both lifting. Mick won his bench, bringing his total golds for the week to two, and again setting a new Irish record.

Paulina won the bench press and also won the deadlift, setting a new European and World record lift, while bringing her total golds to three for the week.

THERE WERE windows to the past for Patsy McGonagle at a book signing in Eason’s, Letterkenny Shopping Centre on Saturday afternoon.

The former Irish athletics team manager launched his book ‘Relentless: A Race Through Time’ last Monday night at the Finn Valley Centre.

At a book signing in Letterkenny on Saturday, a large crowd again turned up to get copies signed by the Ballybofey man.

Among those to attend on Saturday were three-time European medallist Mark English, who McGonagle describes in the book as ‘the most talented athlete that we have ever produced in the north west of Ireland. Ever.’

Margaret Synott, one of the leading members of the Finn Valley team that won eight national senior cross-country titles in a row during the 1990s, was another who came in to reminisce.

McGonagle was Irish athletics team manager for 25 years, during which time he led the cream of Irish track and field (including Sonia O’Sullivan, Heffernan, David Gillick, Derval O’Rourke and Mark English) into 4 Olympic Games, 6 World Championships and 6 European Championships.

In his time in charge, Ireland came home with 2 Olympic medals, 9 World medals and 27 European medals.

‘Relentless: A Race Through Time’ was written by Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub Sports Editor Chris McNulty.

To buy a copy of ‘Relentless: A Race Through Time’ click here

The boys and girls of Woodland NS, SN Fiachra Illistrin, St. Patrick’s Lurgybrack and Gaelscoil Adhamhnáin showed off their talents yesterday at the finals of the County Seat-sponsored Letterkenny Cup for large schools, held on the Community Centre’s new astro.

The girls’ final between St. Patrick’s NS Lurgybrack and Woodland NS served up an entertaining affair.

Both teams contained players from local sides, Bonagee United, Lagan Harps and Illistrin FC.

A fourth minute goal from Orla Malseed and further goals from Grace Murphy saw Lurgybrack claim silverware.

Chloe Creevy at the heart of the Woodland’s defence had an excellent match for the runners-up.

Brendan McAteer, County Seat, presented the delighted Lurgybrack captain, Megan Patterson with the Letterkenny Cup for 2019 and the Player of the Match award went to Grace Murphy, who was an attacking threat all day.

The boys’ final saw reigning champions, Gaelscoil Adhamhnáin play SN Fiachra Illistrin. 

In a pulsating match, Illistrin led 2-0 with less than fifteen minutes to go with both their goals coming from the sublime Fintan Hassan. Philip MacAoidh, who excelled for the Gaelscoil all day, stroke the back of the net with 10 minutes remaining to set up a hectic finish.

Gaelscoil’s Dualtach MacRuartaigh’s surging runs caused Illistrin problems and it was from one of his attacks that the Gaelscoil won a free kick right in front of goals. Cianán Mac Giolla Chomhaill’s struck the freekick with power to make it 2-2, and ensured that the game would be settled on penalties. 

Josh Wade in the Illistrin goal was the hero of the day with two excellent saves in the shootout. He parried the last penalty away from goal and was quickly surrounded by his celebrating teammates.

Main sponsor, Brendan McAteer of County Seat, was in attendance and presented the victorious captain, Fintan Hassan, with the Letterkenny Cup. 

The Player of the Match award was presented to Illistrin’s John Antonio Gallagher, who showed great defensive qualities throughout the match.

Gardaí are investigating two incidents in which cars were extensively damaged in the Meadowbank Park area of Letterkenny.

One car was set on fire after being stripped of expensive accessories, while another car windscreen was smashed in during the night in the Glencar estate.

Witnesses are being urged to come forward following the attacks on Friday 14th June. Gardaí are especially appealing to taxi drivers who may have been on the roads in the early hours of Friday morning to contact them if they observed any unusual activity.

The first case occurred between 00.30hrs and 7am. Numerous expensive car accessories were stolen from the car and it was set on fire. There was extensive damage to the car which was parked outside a home.

The windscreen of another car was smashed, possibly with a block, between 5.30am and 11am on that Friday morning.

Anyone who has any information or if anyone saw anything unusual in the area at that time is asked to call Letterkenny Gardaí on 0749167100.

A Letterkenny pre-school is seeking a pre-school assistant.

The position at St. Gabriel’s Pre-school at Convent Road starts in September 2019 (38 weeks, school term.)

Qualifications required: minimum of Fetac level 5 in Childcare

Experience in Early Childhood setting desired.

Hours of work: 30hours per week Monday-Friday (Flexibility may be required)

The closing date for applications: Friday 5th of July 2019 at 12.30pm.

To apply: Please forward your cv and cover letter to Kelly Mc Clafferty, St. Gabriels’ Pre-school, Convent Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

For further information contact 0749126693/0834266221.

Two men have pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide over the death of tragic Buncrana teen Liam McGlinchey in America.

Liam McGlinchey (pictured above) was found dead in New York in 2017 after a night out with friends.

The 19-year-old had recently moved to the US and had been celebrating passing his exams.

He died as a result of alcohol poisoning after being left lying outside his grandmother’s house in New York.

Two men, Samuel Heroux of Cohoes, aged 21, and another friend who is not named because he was a minor at the time, pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide.

Samuel Heroux

The case was held on Tuesday in Saratoga County Court in New York. Sentencing has been scheduled on 8th August 2019, when Liam’s family can attend court.

Local news channel WNYT reports that Heroux and the friend had driven Liam, who was highly intoxicated, to his grandmother’s house and left him on the lawn. The pair drove away and came back, but they did not call for help when they saw Liam in distress.

Heroux is expected to be sentenced to a term of six months in prison and five years probation. The second friend will also be sentenced in August.

Essential upgrade work at Carndonagh Community Hospital, which was due to start in 2017, has been pushed back by yet again. 

The project, which was announced more than three years ago, has had no tender documents issued and no contractor appointed.

The upgrade was most recently due to start in late 2019 with a completion date of 2021 following written confirmation by the Health Service Executive to the Carndonagh Community Hospital Liaison Group in March.

In 2016, Minister Joe McHugh announced funding of €2.6m for the premises under the government’s 2016-21 capital plan in January 2016.

Planning permission was later sanctioned for the project in 2017.

Residents of Carndonagh Community Hospital were due to move to Buncrana Nursing Unit while the first phase of the upgrade got underway.

The Buncrana Nursing Unit was also sanctioned an upgrade but work was due to commence there when upgrade works to Carndonagh Community Hospital had been completed.

Donegal may be in for a hot weekend as Met Éireann has predicted temperatures will hit as high as 21 degrees on Saturday.

This great weather we are promised may just come in time for the Donegal International Rally this weekend!

The outlook for Saturday is a dry and warm day with spells of hazy sunshine and top temperatures of 21C.

It will remain warm but changeable on Sunday.

“Current indications suggest it will be mostly cloudy on Sunday with some rain,” according to Met Eireann.

“The best of any dry, bright weather is likely in the north and east of the country first thing.”

Let’s hope the rain stays away and more sun follows to finally kick off the summer.