TWO OF Donegal’s best known sports clubs have teamed up to raise funds for young Conall Shiels from Letterkenny through their members’ participation in this year’s Dublin City Marathon.

Members from Letterkenny Athletic Club and Letterkenny 24/7 Triathlon Club came together in the Aura Leisure Centre recently to launch their unique fund-raising drive which will link in to the High 5 For Conall campaign initiated earlier this year.

Picture:  Members of Letterkenny AC and Letterkenny 24/7 pictured at the fundraising launch with the Shiels family in the Aura Centre.

You can donate here https://www.gofundme.com/f/high5conalmarathon

Before Conall was born, he was diagnosed with severe hydrocephalus, a fluid build-up in the brain. His condition means he is non-verbal and is a wheelchair user and he needs 24-hour care. He is also peg fed; meaning most of his nutrition is pumped through a machine into his stomach.

Addressing last night’s launch, Conall’s father, Kieran, said that the money raised by the local clubs will go to help carry out the renovations of the family home.

“We just got word earlier this week that planning permission has been granted and we can’t wait to get up and running with the works. Conall needs a hoist, Conall needs a bigger room and Conall needs s specially-adapted wet-room so that we can care for him properly. This will all make an immense difference to him as he grows into adulthood and we will be able to look after him more comfortably,” Kieran said.

Extending his thanks to Letterkenny AC and Letterkenny 24/7 for taking on a fundraising challenge for his son, Kieran added: “What we have noticed since the High 5 For Conall kicked off earlier is that it has brought people together and has brought the whole town together. We have seen how friends, family and clubs have all rallied and come together to help our family. Tonight’s launch is something with a difference in that it is bringing two clubs together which is very humbling for us.”

“We will be keeping tabs on all the runners from both Letterkenny clubs who will compete in the Dublin Marathon on October 27th and hoping they all get over the finish line safe and well. I hope they will all think of our Conall when they are finding it tough over the last few miles.”

Speaking at the launch, Letterkenny Athletic Club Chairman, Aidan McKenna, said that the club had a long tradition of competing in the Dublin Marathon.

You can donate here https://www.gofundme.com/f/high5conalmarathon

“We’ve always had big numbers taking part and the club has also raised money for a number of worthy causes down the years. There seems to be a bigger number than usual competing in Dublin this year which is great to see. We wish them and the members from the Letterkenny 24/7 Triathlon Club, who we are delighted to team up with, all the best in four weeks’ time,” Aidan said.

Echoing his sentiments, Letterkenny 24/7 Triathlon Club Chairman, Liam Tinney, said that last year was the first time the club had raised money for charity through the Dublin Marathon.

“We raised over €7,000 for the Coombe Hospital through the 2018 Dublin Marathon and are delighted to be joining up with Letterkenny AC to raise funds this year for Conall Shiels. I wish all those competing in Dublin well,” Liam added.

Around 40 members from both Letterkenny clubs will compete in next month’s event in Dublin.

To donate to the Go Fund Me Page please link onto https://www.gofundme.com/f/high5conalmarathon

McCloughan Gunn & Co. Solicitors of Letterkenny and Ramelton are currently seeking to recruit a Legal Executive/Secretary.

Experience preferable.

If you are interested in being considered for this position please submit your CV and cover letter to the McCloughan Gunn & Co. Solicitors, High Road, Letterkenny Co. Donegal or by email to office@mcglk.ie. Tel: 0749125125

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 8th November 2019.

The threatened withdrawal of funding from ParentStop is to be raised in the Dail this evening (Tues), it has emerged. 

Donegal TD, Pat the Cope Gallagher, will raise the issue this evening in the capital.

Speaking before the sitting, Deputy Gallagher said: “I am bringing forward a topical motion to debate the urgent need to continue funding for this project.

“Funding is due to be withdrawn by the end of 2019, and services would cease thereafter. This would be a regrettable development as this organisation provides trojan work in assisting and supporting families experience separation difficulties,” added Pat the Cope.

“The service needs to be placed on a statutory footing or a guaranteed funding basis from Tulsa, by this the organisation could be guaranteed funding on an annual basis and it would have long term security,” stated Pat the Cope.

Pat the Cope further added: “That speaking directly with users of this service; they all vouch for its importance and any practitioner who practices Family Law in the county will be able to vouch for the valuable service provided by Parent Stop.

“Not only do they help parents co-parent following separation, but they are able to speak to older children to ensure that they are coping with the separation and give advice to parents dealing with difficult situations.

“The courts are unable to deal with the volume of cases in the family law court and at the moment if someone has issued family law proceedings in the Letterkenny district (seeking access or maintenance for example), they will have to wait until at least February 2020 to be given a hearing date.

“Parent Stop were able to bridge that gap providing much-needed advice and support to those who most need it.   In the clear majority of cases, a final order was made by a court with no necessity for a hearing date following the party’s attendance at Parent Stop,” he added.

“It is devastating news that this service is going to cease, and it defies logic as to why this is being allowed to happen- that is why I am bringing forward this motion today in order to highlight this case and to further call on the Government to support this project.

“The level of funding required is approximately €100,000 per annum, as they can source other funding from various other funding agencies but what is critical; is that they maintain core funding from the Department, Tusla and Central government,” concluded Pat the Cope.

A supermarket chain that has four stores in Donegal has secured a new pay deal for its member, it has been revealed. 

The newly agreed pay award provides a range of pay increases from a minimum of 2.5% to 8.5%.

The Mandate Trade Union group said members working in the Kavanagh Group Supervalue chain had secured new pay deals.

The chain has four stores across the county, in Buncrana, Ballybofey, Donegal town and Dungloe.

Speaking following the announcement, Divisional Organiser for Mandate’s North and West Division Ciaran Campbell said: “The new pay agreement represents an annual pay increase of €1,300 for a full-time worker, while some of our members will be better-off by €2,000 per year.

“At a time when unions and businesses are operating in the unknown that is Brexit, and also while some retail employers feel that the National Minimum Wage is a benchmark in pay, this agreement – whilst not to be sniffed at – is only a work in progress.

“We have already signalled that the current pay regimes in this and many other similar type employments are not fit for purpose as staff are not being adequately rewarded for their work, efforts and contributions to their employers’ profits.”

“While the retail industry operates in very challenging and competitive times, this cannot mask the fact they are in the main profitable.

“It is in those profitable workplaces that Mandate is intent on securing rates of pay and terms and conditions for its members that are not only meaningful but provide a decent standard of living.

“We have a bit of work to do but seeing our members better off by €30 or €40 a week is a pleasing start.”

Job Vacancy: Spar Glencar, an award-winning store in Letterkenny, requires a full-time/part-time deli assistant required for immediate start within the store.

• Experience is preferable but not essential as full training will be given
• Have a flair for food and have good presentation skills
• Be customer orientated
• Be flexible in regard to working various shift times, including weekends

To apply for this role, please forward your CV to hrglencar@gmail.com

A CRACKER from Sean McBride, who scored twice, set Letterkenny Institute of Technology back to winning ways this afternoon.

Letterkenny Institute of Technology 3 IT Carlow ‘B’ 2

By Chris McNulty at LyIT

McBride’s stunning strike, nine minutes into the second half, put Shane Byrne’s side in command against IT Carlow ‘B’ at the Port Road.

McBride had drawn LyIT level in first-half stoppage time, after Kieran Hennessy had put the Carlow side ahead against the run of play in the first half.

Early in the second half, after the hosts had come out of the traps well from the interval, McBride struck gold.

Spotting a gap, with Kelan Gaffney, the IT Carlow ‘keeper, off his line, the Cappry Rovers attacker could hardly have picked his spot better. A beauty of a hit nestled in under the connect of post and crossbar. 

From the moment the ball left his instep, it was only heading one way and Gaffney could only watch with a mixture of awe and horror.

McBride’s first was a cool finish, with almost two minutes of added time played at the first half, steering home to the bottom corner after a good move involving BJ Banda and Lee McLaughlin down the right-hand side.

LyIT, bidding to bounce back from last week’s loss to Tallaght, had an early opening for Pat Loughrey, but his first-time shot was blocked.

LyIT were without Stephen Doherty and Kieran Farren, but the addition of Joel Bradley-Walsh proved a Godsend with the young Finn Harps prospect standing tall over the 90 minutes. A magnificent tackle to dispossessed Aaron Morris in the 10th minute set the tone for his afternoon.

IT Carlow, however, hit the front on 19 minutes when Hennessy fired over after he pounced when Keelin McGill dallied in taking a touch inside his own penalty area.

Banda hit the side-netting as LyIT tried to shake the heads clear.

Fionn McClure tested Gaffney and it seemed as if the visitors would frustrate until McBride hit the leveller.

Connor Gormley shot over the top early in the second half while Banda drew a smart save from Gaffney.

McBride put LyIT in front and they quickly added a third when Banda tucked home after Loughrey saw his effort parried by the goalkeeper.

Corey McBride couldn’t hit the gaping goal with a chance to seal the deal completely.

Sean McBride went for an ambitious effort at a hat-trick, but curled wide. 

IT Carlow didn’t give up and Jamie Bell, the home net minder, had to be alert to save from Hennessy and Aaron Donnelly, a sub, fired wide from a promising position.

Banda ought to have wrapped it up, but he curled over from 12 yards and the nerves jangled a little when Hennessy netted his second from close range. 

It was too late to really trouble LyIT, who were rather more comfortable than the final score indicated. 

Letterkenny Institute of Technology: Jamie Bell, Lee McLaughlin, Fionn McClure, Joel Bradley-Walsh, Keelin McGill, Connor Gormley, Corey McBride, Liam Walsh, BJ Banda, Sean McBride, Pat Loughrey. Subs: Davitt Walsh for C.McBride (73), Lorcan Towey for L.Walsh (85), Gabriel Aduaka for Loughrey (85), Jordan Gallagher for Banda (88). 

IT Carlow ‘B’: Kelan Gaffney, Mícheál O’Rourke, Obum Onnorah, Gerard Murray, Aaron Morris, Sideeq Lunat, Dylan Roache, Ross Fitzgerald, Dylan Swales, Shane O’Reilly, Kieran Hennessy. Subs: Liam O’Brien for Onnorah (16), William Opoku for O’Reilly (55), Brandon Murphy for Swales (55), Aaron Donnelly for O’Brien (74).

Referee: Michael Connolly.

Representatives from both Mica Action Donegal and the Mica Action Group have called on the government to engage with banks to support mica affected homeowners with the required 10% contribution.

The two groups met yesterday met with Joe Mc Hugh to get an update on progress on the Mica scheme.

Joe Morgan from Mica Action Donegal also gave Minister Mc Hugh an update on his ongoing engagement with key mortgage lenders across the county and received assurance from Minister Mc Hugh of his support on this issue.

Joe Morgan, Chairperson of the MAD, said: “Councillor Liam Blaney and I have been lobbying lenders in Donegal over the past four to five months on behalf of homeowners who are affected by the defective blocks issue to try to get them to support homeowners in some way towards their 10% contribution.

“We have made representation to the major lenders (i.e. AIB, Bank of Ireland, Permanent TSB, and Ulster bank) and have pointed out the benefits to each of the lenders of supporting homeowners in this scheme.

“Specifically we have asked each lender to offer a range of supports to homeowners, namely: 0% interest loans for fixing homes, restructuring existing mortgages to support zero increase in monthly repayments and importantly in the case of those homeowners who don’t have sufficient money to contribute towards fixing their home, a request to the bank to make up any shortfall in the 10% contribution.

“Reinstating market valuation to Mica properties is of equal benefit to both the homeowner and the lender and secures the investment on behalf of both parties,” he said.

“We are approaching the lenders, based on the principle of dual interest in order to guarantee that all homes can be fixed. The alternative, where homeowners do not have access to funding, is mortgage default and repossession.

“Given the current market valuations of Mica properties, this cannot make fiscal sense.

“Whilst the major lenders have been willing to participate and have been engaged in our meetings with them, they have highlighted Central Bank regulation as a stumbling block towards flexibility in the options they can offer to their customers.

Therefore in the meeting yesterday, we asked Minister McHugh to engage with Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe to start a dialogue with the Central Bank with an aim of publishing a joint statement supporting unique and extraordinary measures to ensure mortgage defaults and associated repossessions are avoided.

“A recent social media poll indicates almost 60% of existing secured finance on Mica properties is held with lenders where the Irish Government still have a significant shareholding.

“This means that the Government have a responsibility and the necessary influence to support us in this,” he added.

“Indeed, agreement on proposals will not only facilitate the homeowner and the lender but will also avoid a noteworthy impact on the exchequer finances brought about by a significant level of mortgage default.

“The proposed Mica scheme is described as almost operationally ready.  However, in my opinion, the scheme will be out of reach of many homeowners who will struggle to find the necessary funding to make up the 10% private contribution.

“Delays in realising the necessary funding will only serve to escalate the funding requirement and therefore increase the likelihood of the homeowner losing their home and the lender and state interest being reduced to next to nothing. Time is of the essence”

“I am delighted that Minister McHugh has committed to a discussion with Minister Donohoe to further this request. Confirmation of a joint communication from The Department of Finance and The Central Bank supporting proposals will significantly influence the level of participation we can expect from lenders in Donegal.”

RATHMULLAN Jockey Luke McAteer aided a Donegal punter to scoop €13,000 with one of his latest wins – and took victory on the same horse today.

McAteer won twice in three days on Mother Vincent, trained by Jim Bolger.

On Sunday, McAteer’s win on the three-year-ld in the Apprentice Handicap at Naas helped one Donegal person to a five-figure win.

The anonymous backer placed a €10 Patent bet – with a total stake of €70 – on the last three races at Naas with Boylesports.The punter backed three Bolger-trained mounts to win.

Solage and Halimi won either ride of McAteer’s win on Mother Vincent, sent away at 7/1 odds.

The punter landed a massive sum of €13,590 from the winning bet.

McAteer and Mother Vincent were back in the winners’ enclosure today at the Curragh with a comfortable win in the Ivory Handicap.

Backed to 11/2, Mother Vincent and McAteer won from 20/1 shot Eastern Racer over one mile.

There have been calls for improved stewarding at GAA games in the county after Gaoth Dobhair footballer Eamon McGee clashed with a spectator at the weekend.

After Sunday’s drawn Donegal senior football championship final at Sean MacCumhaill Park, McGee was approached by the spectator.

Some members of the media and other spectators were present as McGee was verbally attacked by the man.

The incident happened on the pitch after McGee had conducted some post-match interviews with the media. 

The situation was defused, but McGee suggested on Twitter that his wife and young child were also targeted.

“Didn’t mind him getting onto me but getting onto Joanne while she was walking off the field with Daisy isn’t cool. Thankfully she was well fit for him,” McGee Tweeted. 

McGee had just played for Gaoth Dobhair against Naomh Conaill in a game that finished 0-8 apiece. 

It is understood that the individual does not have an affiliation to any of the clubs involved in Sunday’s final.

The alleged abuse directed at te player was not connected to the game in any way.

McGee was involved in the Donegal group that campaigned for a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum to repeal the 8th amendment and backed the ‘yes’ camp in the marriage equality referendum.

The 2012 All-Ireland winner was criticised for his stance and has been previously the subject of social media abuse regarding his beliefs. 

Some buck coming on roaring abuse about George Soros Didn’t mind him getting onto me but getting onto Joanne while she was walking off the field with Daisy isn’t cool. Thankfully she was well fit for him. https://t.co/jTqqSWfyQv

— Eamon Mc Gee (@EamonMcGee) October 21, 2019

Donegal Senator Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has again called on the Minister for Health to end the recruitment embargo at Letterkenny University Hospital, which has experienced high levels of overcrowding this week.

The numbers of people awaiting in-patient beds at the hospital reached 40 today, one of the highest numbers in the State.

Senator Mac Lochlainn said the hospital’s inability to recruit nurses, doctors and support staff is adding to the crisis. He is calling on Minister for Health Simon Harris to lift the recruitment ban to reopen all the beds in the hospital’s Short Stay Ward and to fill positions across the hospital.

He said: “I understand that the only barrier to reopening all of the 20 beds in LUH’s Short Stay Ward is the government’s recruitment embargo being implemented by the HSE for months now.

“I am also aware of a huge reduction in elective surgeries and procedures across the hospital that is driving up hospital waiting lists across Donegal with many people unnecessarily living with painful conditions.

“This recruitment embargo doesn’t make financial sense as rather than investing in our public health system, the government are redirecting millions of euro to private ambulance companies, private hospitals and recruitment agencies. I am again calling on the Minister for Health, Simon Harris to end this counter-productive recruitment embargo.”

A Letterkenny resident had a shocking awakening on Sunday night after their car was damaged outside their home.

The criminal damage incident occurred outside a house in Ardcrannagh, Gortlee on Sunday night/Monday morning at approx 1.45am.

The car owner was awoken from their sleep to realise that two of their car windows were smashed.

The passenger window and the rear windscreen of the car were targetted in the attack.

Gardaí are appealing to the public for any information which may help with the investigation. If anyone saw anything suspicious please contact Letterkenny Garda Station on 0749167100 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800666111

The 50th anniversary of the death of famed Donegal writer Séamus Ó Grianna, or Máire, takes place this weekend.

And on Friday 25 October at 2 pm Damien Ó Dónaill will present a documentary about the writer on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

Ó Grianna from Tóin a’Bhaile in Rann na Feirste, was a prolific writer, and his work is renowned for its beautiful, rich Irish.

His novel Caisleáin Óir, and short story collection Cith is Dealán, are amongst his best-known works. In the programme Séamus Ó Grianna 1889 – 1969 on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta on Friday, Damien Ó Dónaill will interview some of those who knew him about his life, and he will speak to scholars who have studied his work.

We’ll also hear archive material from Séamus, his son Feilimí, and his brother Seán Bán. Guests will include Prof Nollaig Mac Congáil, Dinnie Dhónáill Ó Domhnaill and Dr Tony Mac Ruairí.

This weekend, starting on Friday evening, there will be a celebration of Séamus Ó Grianna’s life at Áislann Rann na Feirste, with events including lectures, a walk, dramas, and a night of music on Saturday night.

Séamus Ó Grianna 1889 – 1969 will be broadcast on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta on Friday 25 October at 2 pm, and is presented and produced by Damien Ó Dónaill.

Gardaí in Dublin are appealing for information and witnesses following the theft of ‘Dublin Marathon’ merchandise.

It’s understood the merchandise was stolen between 4.30pm on Saturday 19th October 2019 and 6.30pm on Monday from a van parked outside a house at Sutton Park, Sutton, Dublin 13.

A large quantity of hats and jackets intended for Dublin Marathon stewards and volunteers was taken during the incident.

An Garda Síochána said that this official Dublin Marathon merchandise, is not on general sale to the public and was intended only for stewards/volunteers.

Anyone offered the merchandise for sale or can assist Gardaí in locating the property is asked to contact their local Garda station.

Separately, anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious between the hours of 4.30pm on Saturday 19th October 2019 and 6.30pm on Monday 21st October are asked to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Raheny Garda Station on 01 6664300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

Gardaí in Donegal have pleaded with drug users who are thinking about getting behind the wheel of a car to wait until it is safe to do so to avoid harming themselves and others.

Cannabis use is illegal in Ireland, but as drink and drug driving detections rise in Donegal, gardaí are warning users about the recommended time periods of when it is safe to drive.

The garda roadside tests can detect four different types of drugs and will detect 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis, in saliva for about 6 hours after last use. However, due to the lack of regulation in cannabis, the levels can vary.

It is recommended to wait 24 hours after last using cannabis before driving, according to Sergeant Eunan Walsh.

Speaking in the community Garda notice, Sgt Walsh said: “The correct answer in an ideal world is not to take cannabis at all and certainly not to take it if you are going to drive. Unfortunately it is not an ideal world and people do take cannabis and other illegal substances.”

“It is recommended to wait 24 hours after last using cannabis before driving. If you are sure you are no longer impaired as result of taking cannabis and more than 6 hours have elapsed since last use it should not be possible for a Garda to detect impairment and the 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) level in you oral fluid should be lower than the detection limit for the Cannabis test on the Drager Drugtest 5000.”

Sgt Walsh added that poly-drug use, such as the dangerous mixture of alcohol and cannabis, is the most impairing to people’s driving.

An Irishman been arrested in connection with the deaths of 39 people following the discovery of the bodies inside a lorry container today (Weds). 

Police and ambulance crews were called following the discovery at Waterglade Industrial Park in Grays, Essex at 1.40am.

All 39 people were pronounced dead at the scene and the lorry driver, a 25-year-old man from Northern Ireland, has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

The vehicle is believed to have come from Bulgaria and entered the UK at Holyhead in north Wales on Saturday.

Police in Essex Essex said: “This is a tragic incident where a large number of people have lost their lives. Our enquiries are ongoing to establish what has happened.

“We are in the process of identifying the victims, however, I anticipate that this could be a lengthy process.

“We believe the lorry is from Bulgaria and entered the country at Holyhead on Saturday 19 October and we are working closely with our partners to investigate. We have arrested the lorry driver in connection with the incident who remains in police custody as our enquiries continue.”

Paige Wade was driving past the industrial park at 4.15am on the way home from work.

She told the PA news agency: “I honestly didn’t see much, I had just finished work while driving up Motherwell Way and all you could see was blue flashing lights, as I was driving past there was police tape to cordon off the start of eastern avenue.

“I knew it was serious because of how many police cars and ambulances were there, but the police had parked their cars across the whole access of the road so you couldn’t see anything.

“There’s always lorries around there as they park up there for the night, I couldn’t say whether I did or didn’t see the actual lorry in question.”

AFTER SIGNING a new contract at Sligo Rovers, Kyle Callan-McFadden says he wants to help the Bit O’Red ‘move up a level’.

The 24-year-old Ramelton man has become the 13th player to commit to Sligo for the 2020 season.

Callan-McFadden, a former Norwich City prospect, will be going into his fourth season at the club next year.

“I feel some of my performances recently have been the best in my time here,” the defender said after penning a new one-year deal. 

“Last season wasn’t at that standard. In 2020 I want to lead this club to achieve something and be at the forefront of that. It’s a simple target on paper and the hard work starts from here.

“I love it here, you see what is going on around the club in terms of the fundraising and the passion around the place.

“There’s a massive desire to move up a level in terms of the league. We can talk about it now but we’ve got to be ready from the first kick of a ball next season.” 

Callan-McFadden has enjoyed life under new manager Liam Buckley this year. Sligo lost out to Dundalk in an FAI Cup semi-final recently and will aim to get back on the silverware trail next year.

He said: “I think the respect we have for Liam has been evident in the effort and application all year. You can see why he has won things with clubs and how determined he is to do it here.

“It’s been good to not battle against relegation because the last couple of years have been a dogfight.

“I don’t think that’ll be good enough next year. We’re trying to achieve something and losing the Cup semi-final was hard to take. It has to drive us on next year.”

Buckley said: “Kyle is a really solid defender who tackles really well, he’s strong in the air and he’s a good leader. We’ve got some proper defenders here. He has shown form recently that demands he is in the team. That’s what I want from every player going forward.

“We have some versatile defenders as well and I put Kyle in the middle of midfield at times this year because he has range of passing.” 

Gaoth Dobhair are heading off in search of another Ulster voyage on Saturday as the club’s Under-16s take part in the quarter-final of the Paul McGirr Ulster Under-16 Club Champions Tournament.

Gaoth Dobhair face Ardboe in the last of the quarter-finals at Dromore on Saturday (throw-in 2.15pm).

Both clubs are making their maiden appearances in the showpiece tournament, but going on their successful seasons so far both will have eyes on the coveted Ulster title.  

Gaoth Dobhair have won Ulster titles at senior and under-21 level in recent times and will look to make inroads here, too.

Gaoth Dobhair defeated Aodh Ruadh 4-12 to 2-8 in the Donegal U16 final in July when Cathal De Burca (2-1), Ronan Heffernan (1-1) and Fionnan Coyle (1-1) did the damage. 

Eamon McBride, Daragh Ferry and Cian McEntee form part of a sturdy defence that has conceded very little all season, their hard running midfield pairing of Sean Mcfadden and Stephen McFadden will have an interesting battle with Michael Forbes and co they will look to Coyle, Aidan McGowan and De Burca for the scores to get them over the line.  

Manager Michael Ferry is hoping the long lay off doesn’t have any effect on his team.

“The lads are thrilled with the opportunity to play in the Paul McGirr tournament and test themselves against the best in Ulster,” he said.  

“It’s been a long wait since the 7th July when we won the county title but huge credit to the lads they continued to train despite having very little match opportunities.  

“Having seen a formidable Ardboe team win a tight Tyrone final at the weekend we know we will be up against it but the lads are focused on the challenge and really looking forward to it.  

“We’re very grateful to the Dromore club and McGirr family for their huge efforts in organising such a wonderful showcase of underage football.’

Tyrone champions Ardboe last weekend defeated a fancied Donaghmore team to claim the Tyrone title.

Forbes, Jack Martin, Cormac Devlin and Daniel Quinn are among the key protagonists on the Ardboe side.

The North West City Region’s unique strategic cross border location will be one of the strong selling points for the seven companies from across the Donegal, Derry and Strabane Council areas that travel to the US next month as part of a high-level trade and investment delegation.

The companies travelling from Donegal are EKO Chute, MMG Welding and Wild Fuschia Bakery while O’Neill’s International Sportswear, Humanity Cosmetics, Learning Pool and Visual Edge will also be taking part.

The Trade and Investment mission will be led by Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Councils and will include third level and further education providers and development organisations including the Ulster University, Letterkenny Institute of Technology, the North West Regional College, Donegal ETB and Catalyst.

The trade and investment mission will run from 11 to 15 November. It will build on the strong political, economic and cultural linkages already established in Boston and Philadelphia with the North West City region and will be an opportunity to further reach out to the Irish diaspora.

Picture includes seven companies from across the Donegal, Derry and Strabane Council areas will travel to the US next month as part of a high-level trade and investment delegation. Front row: Sian McCann, Wild Fuschia Bakehouse; Eibhlin McGuinness, MMG Welding; Rob Rae, Littus Consulting; Ian Friel, Visual Edge and back row: Gerard Floyd, Humanity Cosmetics; Laverne O’Donnell, Derry City and Strabane District Council; Christopher Reid, Humanity Cosmetics; Francis Burns, Eko Chute.

Speaking ahead of the visit and welcoming the confirmation of the seven local companies, An Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Nicholas Crossan said he welcomed the inclusion of local companies in the trade mission. He said it provided them with the support to make real, lasting and worthwhile business and networking links.

“This trade mission has real potential to not only showcase Ireland NW as an investment location but it’s a fantastic opportunity for us to strengthen the educational, political, cultural and diaspora connections we have with the US.

“This is a very successful and unique collaboration between the two Councils and partners. We have enjoyed much success to date with three trade missions to Boston and two to Philadelphia and 40 companies availing of the support to develop exports into a new market.

“In addition to strengthening our cross border business networks and developing strong civic links with Boston and Philadelphia, the delegation have successfully signed a MoU with the City of Boston, a MoU with NWRC and Philadelphia Community College and a MoU between NWRC and State of PA.”

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Michaela Boyle said the visit was particularly timely for the companies and partners to promote the NW city region’s unique strategic cross border location.

She said: “This trade mission is a real opportunity for us to focus on our strengths in terms of location, talent and skills and support. It is our chance to really sell our location to the business community in the US, by educating them to the fact that post Brexit they can locate in our region and access both the North of Ireland and the EU.

“We will be very positive in our approach to emphasise to potential investors the strong selling points we have in terms of our location, our talented skills base, our cultural compatibility and quality of life.”

During the visit, the participating businesses will meet with key contacts, explore and understand opportunities in the US market, develop in-market networks and develop relationships with potential customers.

The civic delegation will engage with industry influencers and leaders, meet with Philadelphia Council and attend a Philadelphia Diaspora event. While in Boston they will visit the Irish Immigration Centre, meet State representatives at the State House and attend the official launch of the Harvard GSD Visit Atlas for a City Region project as well as engaging with senior business executives.

In addition to attending bespoke business to business meetings and engaging with potential investors and business connections, the delegation will attend a reception hosted by the Irish Consulate in Boston and be guests at the Golden Bridges Conference.

Last year, Joule, a locally based fire engineering consultancy business, was one of a number of companies that took part in the trade mission.

The company’s founding director John McColgan says the trade visit was a fantastic opportunity to look at new markets in the United States and his company’s participation was a very positive experience.

He said: “Our participation in the trade delegation was hugely beneficial to us in that it provided us with opportunities to research the implementation of both our consulting business in Fire Safety and the rolling out of our digital fire safety platform, TFS Compliance.

It was the first time we participated in a trade mission and we really made the most of this opportunity by meeting new clients, customers, distributors and showcasing our expertise and services to the US market.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for us to promote the consulting and technology solutions we offer and the way in which we can digitalise the management of fire safety in our clients’ portfolios. Thanks to the trade mission we have registered a company in the US, are at an advanced stage in the distribution of our digital fire safety platform in North America and maintained and built upon many of the contacts we made and we look forward to working with them in the near future.”

The US trade mission takes place from 11-15 November and is funded by the Irish Government and the Executive Office.

For more information on the trade mission visit www.irelandNW.com and follow the hashtag #IrelandNW19.

A 79-year-old man had to be trolleyed more than 200 yards into an ambulance because a footbridge to his home has not been replaced. 

The man, who is confined to a wheelchair, collapsed at his home in Bunbeg, West Donegal overnight.

However, emergency medical personnel could not get their vehicle near his home after the footpath collapsed and was washed away during flooding in August when the local River Clady burst its banks.

Instead, the frustrated paramedics were forced to wheel the man more than 200 yards from his home to the main road where he could be taken by ambulance to hospital.

The man’s son, Sean O Duibhir has slammed the delay in having the footpath replaced so that vehicles can cross it.

The 79 year old man being wheel from his home.

“Thankfully dad is okay but I had to call neighbours to help us wheel him down to the road with the paramedics.

“It was dark but at least it was not raining. But wheeling a sick man two hundred yards down a road and across a temporary bridge just so he can get into an ambulance is just not on.

“The bridge needs to be replaced immediately but we have heard nothing as to when that will be,” said Sean.

Local county councillor Micheal Mac Giolla Easbuig is fuming at the delay in replacing the bridge.

He said “This is utterly and totally unacceptable that this has happened in this day and age. The Government has completely failed this family.

The homes of three families in Gweedore including a wheelchair bound resident who are trapped after flooding demolished the bridge into their homes. (North West Newspix)

“This man had to be wheeled by ambulance personnel, helped by family and neighbours for more than 200 yards to reach the ambulance.

“They have completely stripped him of his dignity and all because they will not properly replace the bridge.

“The Government needs to do the right thing by this family and fix this bridge once and for all,” he said.

Sean and Martina Diver and children after the bridge was washed away. (North West Newspix)

IT’S TIME to cast your vote for this week’s Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub Sports Person of the Week, in association with O’Reilly’s Sportswear.

Each weekly award winner will receive a kitbag, a jacket and a bobble hat, supplied by O’Reilly’s.

The award winner will be chosen via a public vote from a shortlist selected by our panel.

O’Reilly’s Sportswear was founded in 2017 by well-known Twin Towns sporting brothers Steven and Martin O’Reilly.

This week’s poll closes at noon on Friday – cast your vote! Please note that our voting system allows only one vote per IP address.

Click here to cast your vote

Orlaith Doherty (Lagan Harps)

Lagan Harps won the FAI under-12 Challenge Cup at the weekend. After a 0-0 draw with Wilton United, Lagan defeated Rock Celtic and Cherry Orchard in the group phase, before defeating Curraloe in the semi-final on penalties. In the final, Lagan overcame Lakewood from Cork. Orlaith Doherty was Lagan’s Player of the Match in the final and weighed in with some important goals.

Teresa Doherty (Finn Valley AC)

At an open cross-country meet on Sunday, Teresa Doherty of Finn Valley AC won the Jim McNamara Award as the outstanding master athlete in Santry. Doherty won her age category and had a splendid day. Doherty is among the local athletes selected as part of an Irish team for an international meet next month

Anthony Gallagher (St Eunan’s)

St Eunan’s retained their Senior B Championship title on Sunday with a 0-11 to 0-7 win over Kilcar. Anthony Gallagher played a starring role for the black and amber and the corner-back scored a fine point along the way.

Cáit Gillespie (Aodh Ruadh)

It was a historic day for Aodh Ruadh on Sunday as the Ballyshannon club won a first ever Minor Ladies title. Aodh Ruadh had a 7-10 to 1-8 win over Moville in the final, played in Killygordon. Cáit Gillespie was a standout performer for the Ernesiders. Gillespie scored three goals and two points on the day. 

Oisin Orr (Rathmullan)

It was a weekend to savour for Rathmullan jockey Oisin Orr. On Friday night, Orr recorded a stunning 95/1 double at Dundalk, taking 7/1 Benedict Roezel and 11/1 Masalai to victories for Edward Lynam. Orr followed up on Saturday with a win on Amma Grace. 

Click here to cast your vote