A new system of car parking fees is being proposed for visitors to Sliabh Liag – one of Donegal’s most iconic attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Three car parks are being proposed for tourists accessing the stunning cliffs in south-west Donegal.

Beginning in March 2020, costs could range from €2-€5 per hour and €10-€15 per day parking, while buses transporting tourists to the upper car park closest to the cliffs will pay between €45 and €99 by the year 2022.

Sliabh Liag currently attracts more than 160,000 visitors a year and a €4.95 million Strategic Development Project is underway to create a Transportation Hub and Visitor’s Centre for the signature point.

May 2019: The official opening of the new €5m Sliabh Liag Development

The public is being asked to share their views on the new bye-laws which would set the car parking controls and fees.

The draft bye-laws would ban cars, motorbikes or other vehicles from driving to the top car park at Sliabh Liag. Only buses, mini buses and disability parking will be provided at the upper car park.

Two cars parks are in development for all other visitors. A ‘Transportation Hub Car Park’ will be located at the new Sliabh Liag visitor centre, containing 76 Car parking Spaces (incl. 5 disabled spaces) and five coach parking bays. Plans are in place for a shuttle bus to bring visitors to Sliabh Liag from this centre.

The proposed parking costs would be €2 per hour or €10 per day at the Transportation Hub Car Park.

Transportation Hub Car Park Map as shared on the draft Donegal County Council Bye-Laws 2020 (Sliabh Liag Car Parks)

Closer to the cliffs, a Ranger Car Park will provide 53 car parking spaces (incl. 2 disabled spaces) and two coach parking/turning bays. The costs are expected to be €5 per hour or €15 all day.

Rangers Car Park Map as shared on the draft Donegal County Council Bye-Laws 2020 (Sliabh Liag Car Parks)

Parking fees for the Upper Car Park will be €45 for a mini bus and €99 for a bus up to 33 seaters. The charge will be introduced on a phased basis. With 2020 being the first year of these Bye Laws, a special discount of 66.67% will be applied to the (normal) parking fee. A discount of 33.33% will apply in 2021 before the full fee is introduced in 2022.

Upper Car Park Map as shared on the draft Donegal County Council Bye-Laws 2020 (Sliabh Liag Car Parks)

The proposed bye-laws and development of the Sliabh Liag visitor experience intend to improve the sustainability of the site, as visitor numbers are expected to increase in the years to come. New facilities such as the visitor centre, cafe, story stones and the new mountain path have been designed to improve the tourist experience and attract more visitors.

However, some members of the public have expressed fears that parking charge will deter people from visiting the beauty spot, which has been free of charge for so long. Other locals are concerned that vehicles will park on roadsides to avoid paying fees.

The public is being encouraged to share all views on the project with submissions to the council before 23rd December.

Local councillor Niamh Kennedy said it is important that people look at the bigger picture.

“I would encourage people to put in a submission to inform planners on the best method on how to go about this. These are draft bye-laws that are open to all considerations,” Cllr Kennedy said.

Cllr Kennedy pointed out that money generated from the parking fees will be put back into the local area.

She said: “This is important to note. The parking will create revenue to pay staff at the visitor centre, the interpretation, cleaning and toilets. And any money on top of that will go back into the local area, the same as it does with car parks in Donegal Town and Bundoran, etc.”

A number of concerns have been raised by locals and tour companies, which Cllr Kennedy said are important to consider.

“Some questions need to be answered appropriately as they are a cause for cautious concern. Obviously we have to be very careful and understanding of locals in the area. Some locals have been expressive about campervans coming past their driveways and the sides of the roads being parked on. And we have had a number of submissions sent to us from different transportation and private car companies,” Cllr Kennedy said.

With all submissions being taken into consideration, Cllr Kennedy said: “We need to be looking at the bigger picture for the entire area.”

She added that the entire area of Teelin and will benefit from the strategic project, “if it’s done properly.”

The new path at Sliabh Liag, developed under the strategic development project

Cllr Michael Naughton, also based in the Donegal MD, said that it is important that the project accommodates both visitors and locals.

“At the end of the day Sliabh Liag is our biggest asset in the south of the county and we need to make sure local people are being looked after as well,” Cllr Naughton said.

“If you look at the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway – nobody minds giving a euro or two to the upkeep for toilets and a standard for people. I don’t see a big issue of one or euros being added on for parking if it all going back into Sliabh Liag and it gives an experience.”

A copy of the draft Bye-Laws is available on http://www.donegalcoco.ie/services/roadsservice/roads%20service%20public%20consultation/sliabhliagcarparks/

Representations made in relation to the draft Bye-Laws must be made in writing to the Council not later than 12.00 noon on Monday 23rd December 2019, which will then be considered by the Council. Such representations should be addressed to the Parking Section, Donegal County Council, Letterkenny Public Services Centre, Neil T Blaney, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

Local fishermen say this is the calm before the storm of Brexit, as the exit could be ‘potentially devastating’ for the future of the industry.

The comments come after the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) recognised a ‘reasonable outcome’ to this week’s Fisheries Council talks.

The KFO said the Council of Fisheries Ministers annual meeting in Brussels has delivered a reasonable overall result on certain key stocks but has upheld misguided proposals on others.

Its CEO, Seán O’Donoghue, said at the end of Council that this is almost certain to be the last December Fisheries Council in this format with the looming withdrawal of the UK from the EU.

This was the metaphorical calm before a potentially devastating storm with the long- term future of the industry very much in the balance as the UK and EU negotiating teams assess and mould Britain’s exit plan from the EU.

Commenting on the conclusion of talks which entered a third day, Mr O’Donoghue said that TACs and quotas had been set at sustainable levels.

He said: “The Commission’s unworkable proposals for cod and whiting in the Celtic Sea were changed to setting appropriate by catch and catch levels for these species and a range of workable technical conservation measures to avoid a vast array of sustainable fisheries being closed.

“There were significant sustainable increases in a number of species such as 41% increase in mackerel, 23% and 30% increases respectively in haddock in areas 6a and 7b-k, a 7% increase in monkfish area 7 and a doubling of small sole quota area 7gf.

“The reduction in nephrops our second most important economic stock was not unexpected but none the less it will have an affect on the demersal fleet. 

“The 30% reduction in monkfish in area 6a and the 40% reduction in pollack areas 6 are disappointing as they are based on dubious science. In the overall context of all stocks of Irish interest there has a small increase of 1%.”

He added, “I wish to thank Minister Creed and his team of officials for achieving a reasonable sustainable outcome in difficult circumstances.”   

“A no-deal Brexit really cannot be what people want but it still is a possibility on 1st January 2021. The situation would be uncontrollable with almost 3,000 kilometers of a ‘water border’ to be policed and the potentially devastating consequences for fleets which would have to be tied up.

“Ultimately, it would be the death knell for many coastal fishing communities, with the demise of the Irish seafood sector to the tune of between 30% and 50% and projected job losses of between 30% and 40% in the fishing industry here. The reliance we have on UK waters for species such as mackerel (60%) and nephrops (40%) is staggering, these are two main money “spenders” for the industry. It’s very hard to get one’s head around the fact that waters, to which we have enjoyed access, could be out of bounds on 1st January 2021 with no physical wall nor barrier in place.

“It is imperative that no stone is left unturned to protect the Irish seafood sector in the future   trade negotiations which, last year alone, was valued at €1.25billion, employing more than 14,300 people predominantly in rural, coastal locations. Michel Barnier and Trade Commissioner Phil Hogan will play key roles, along with our Government, to negotiate the retention of the close linkage between fisheries and the wider trade relationship in order to maintain existing access to fishing waters and existing resource allocations. This linkage is absolutely critical.

“Whereas fish are mobile and know no borders nor bear any nationality, our trawlers don’t have this luxury and must obey boundaries and exclusion zones. We must do absolutely everything in our power to deliver a reasonable solution in terms of access to waters and resources thereby avoiding a ‘no-deal’ Brexit and the ramifications which this would have for our sector,” concluded Mr O’Donoghue.

There was great Christmas spirit in Scoil Mhuire gan Smál in Letterkenny this week as the pupils put on their Christmas play.

Proud parents attended the children’s festive performance in the school’s sports hall.

The usual characters such as Mary, Joeseph and The Three Wise Men were centre stage.

Some new additions to the Nativity scene also made an appearance.

A great festive time was had by all the children and adults.

No-one is safe when Donegal’s youngest gardaí are on duty – not even Santa’s elves!

Donegal’s three Little Blue Heroes had a busy day yesterday carrying out pre-Christmas inspections at Letterkenny Garda Station with the help of Mrs Brown’s Boys star Danny O’Carroll.

The Little Blue Heroes with Danny O’Carroll, Santa and his elf at Letterkenny Garda Station – Photo: Garda Siochana Donegal

And there was plenty of merriment and divilment with Garda Jack Beattie from Raphoe, Garda Ray Campbell from Bridgend and Garda Michael ‘Birdie’ Mc Laughlin from the Frosses working together.

Actor Danny O’Carroll (who plays bad boy Buster in Mrs Brown’s Boys) and Letterkenny Chamber President Jimmy Stafford joined the fun – adding even more mischief to the party!

Brilliant from @BbMrsbrownsboys today @GardaTraffic #Letterkenny event for @LilBlueHeroes well done Letterkenny Gardai , such wonderful kids @tnaf32 @eunaneunie @lkchamber @LkPresident pic.twitter.com/Uhz7yW0kAS

— Jimmy Stafford (@JimmystaffordDJ) December 17, 2019

The three special boys have been welcomed onto the force under the ‘Little Blue Heroes’ charity project to bring some youthful expertise to the district and to ensure Donegal is safe for Santa and his reindeer this Christmas.

Santa himself arrived in Letterkenny to outline his Christmas Eve plans, but his elf colleague turned out to be a ‘Rebel without a Claus’!

Garda Beattie, Garda Campbell and Garda McLaughlin sprung to action when investigations revealed that the elf had stolen Santa’s driving licence. Thankfully, thanks to their training, the boys successfully handcuffed the elf with the help of Danny.

Elf arrest! Photo: Garda Siochana Donegal

Gardaí took the visit as an opportunity to present a cheque of over €2,000 to the Little Blue Heroes Foundation. A presentation was made by retired Superintendent O Brien to the Little Blue Heroes on behalf of the retired members association. A presentation on behalf of Sarah’s gift and Ma’s on a Mission was also made at the party.

Garda Jack helps with the presentation Letterkenny Garda Station – Photo: Garda Siochana Donegal

A great day was enjoyed by the little gardaí, family friends and local community members.

And children across Donegal will sleep well on Christmas Eve knowing that three young gardaí are keeping an eye on the skies.

Little Blue Heroes is a charity established by Garda staff which aims to support local Gardaí in providing financial assistance to families in need in their local communities who have children undergoing long-term medical treatment for critical illness.

The foundation also aims to provide Garda themed distraction toys, activity books, and children’s events (e.g. Garda for a Day or Special Garda Open Days) for the children they support. To find out more or to donate, visit www.littleblueheroes.org

JASON Breslin says Cockhill Celtic must start 2020 how they mean to go on and make a mark across the board. 

Breslin has been confirmed as the Watson Menswear Ulster Senior League Player of the Month for November 2019.

Jason Breslin (Cockhill Celtic) receives the Watson Menswear Ulster Senior League Player of the Month Award for November 2019 from referee Vincent McLoughlin.

The defender has been instrumental as the champions moved to the top of the bmcsports.ie Ulster Senior League for the Christmas break while they recently booked spots in the last 16 of the Intermediate Cup and the first round of the 2020 senior cup.

“The games are going to come thick and fast now so we have to be ready,” Breslin says.

“From January to the end of May, it’ll be wall-to-wall games. We’ve gone on a good run in the last few weeks and we just need to make sure that we don’t lose any momentum over Christmas.

“Gavin (Cullen, Cockhill player-manager) sent us a list of the Cups that we are still in and it’s unreal. We’ve still only played five League games, but we have a huge year now after Christmas. You have to look forward to that.”

Cockhill are two points clear of Bonagee United with a game in hand at the top of the League after a 2-0 win over Fanad United last Saturday.

Seven times USL champions, Cockhill have had an overhaul of their personnel lately, but they have lost none of their qualities.

The impending return of a former multiple USL golden boot winner in Garbhan Friel will add to their arsenal significantly, too.

“Garbhan was training last week and has brought a real tempo,” Breslin says. “We lost the likes of Gerry (Gill) and ‘Jazza’ (Gerard McLaughlin) who were high intensity players, but Gavin brought in really good players.

“The first game of the season, we lost 3-0 to Bonagee in the League Cup. That was a big wake-up call for us.

“We knew we had good players, but we just had to click as a team. The run we’re on now shows we’re a good team. Gavin has brought in some brilliant signings.

“It’s really a brand-new team, maybe five or six new players, but this is a team of winners.”

Breslin first moved to Cockhill in the summer of 2015, debuting in a 2-0 loss to Longford Town in the FAI Senior Cup.

Cockhill will be back in the Senior Cup again in 2020 and are eyeing up advancement in the Intermediate Cup after their recent 2-1 replay win against Midleton in Cork.

“We should have won the first game,” Breslin reflects. “We were very, very confident going to the replay. This is the biggest competition we aim to win. We always fell at these kind of hurdles, but not this time.

“That win sets us up nicely. 

“We’re top of the League and we got a good 0-0 draw at Letterkenny too. We were missing a few players that day and Letterkenny were probably under more pressure to win. As ling as you don’t lose to the teams around you, you’ll be grand.

“Those games have set us up nicely now for the New Year.”

Job vacancy: A construction company in Finn Valley is seeking a part time bookkeeper/office administrator.

Responsibilities will include:

• Maintaining accounts on SAGE
• Filing ROI & UK VAT returns
• Weekly payroll processing
• Customer invoicing
• Credit control
• Maintaining timesheets & job cards
• Paying suppliers
• Sourcing & ordering materials

The successful candidate will be responsible for the day to day administration of the company hence they must be competent in all areas and be proficient in the use of accounting and payroll software. Good organisational, communication and telephone skills are expected as is a willingness to work on their own initiative.  

A background in the building trade preferred but not essential.

Hours: Monday to Friday 5 hours per day.  

Salary: negotiable. 

To Apply:  Please send a CV to donegaldailyjobs@gmail.com with the email subject line PT BOOKKEEPER.

DONEGAL have confirmed that 2012 All-Ireland winning midfielder Rory Kavanagh is the new county U15 manager.

Kavanagh retired from inter-county football for a second time in January 2017 and still lines out for his club, St Eunan’s.

Kavanagh will look after Donegal’s Under-15 Academy Squad in 2020.

Previously, Kavanagh managed Donegal to glory in the Buncrana Cup in 2018.

“We are delighted he is back on board working and developing our young players in the county,” a statement from the Donegal County Board said.

Donegal have also announced that Maxi Curran has taken up the position of the manager of the U14 Academy Squad Program for 2020. 

The Co Board said: “Maxi has a extensive background in coaching at all levels in the county and will bring a wealth of knowledge to the role.”

Curran is also the manager of the Donegal senior ladies team.

The Letterkenny Food Bank said it will help feed well in excess of 200 local families this Christmas.

Need for the service continues to grow as the gulf between those who have and have-not gets wider and wider.

John Walsh, assistant chairperson of the charity told Donegal Daily the demand is getting greater all the time and this Christmas will see that demand peak.

He revealed “We give parcels to around two hundred families every three weeks and that demand is growing.

“I would safely say that the demand will be much great in the run-up to and over the Christmas period.

“I’m sure many people in Letterkenny would never have thought that there would be a demand for such a food bank but it’s now a fact of life.

“The demand for our service comes from many different parts of our society and people would be surprised by the people who need our service.”

And the demand for food parcels is not just from families in Letterkenny but as far away as Gaoth Dobhair and Killybegs.

“It’s pretty much across the entire county,” adds John.

Many fellow charity organisations such as Vincent De Paul use the Food Bank for giving vouchers to their users who can collect the food from their premises at Market Square.

The organisation depends directly from donations from the public to make up the food parcels to give to those less fortunate.

There are four drop-off points in the town and they are Mac’s Mace, the Community Centre, Solo and Simpson’s Supermarket.

All non-perishable goods can be left off at any of these locations and they will be gratefully accepted and collected by members of the Food Bank.

Mr Walsh said that many companies and individuals contribute regularly to the organisation.

However, he singled out Marks and Spencer for their donations as well as local businessman Alfie Greene for allowing them the use of their premises.

Due to a very significant number of flu cases, Letterkenny University Hospital is asking for the public’s assistance to prevent the spread of infection from the flu and to minimise the chances of it being brought into the hospital.

The hospital is reminding members of the public that visiting restrictions remain in place and they should not visit the hospital.

Seán Murphy General Manager Letterkenny University Hospital said, “We are appealing to people to co-operate with the visiting restrictions so that we can protect the many very sick patients in the hospital.

“In exceptional cases only, family members may arrange an appointment with the ward manager to visit critically ill patients. To arrange an appointment, please call the hospital on 074 9125888 and ask to be put through to the manager on the ward who will decide if an appointment to visit can be facilitated without compromising the welfare of the patients on the ward or the welfare of the visitors.

“We understand that it is difficult for people not to visit family and friends particularly as the visiting restrictions have been in place for more than 2 weeks now. However, anyone carrying the flu virus can spread it for 1-2 days before developing symptoms and up to 5 days after symptoms develop. You may be spreading the flu and not even know it.

“Our staff are working very hard to care for the many seriously ill patients in the hospital and we need to do everything we can to support them and protect our patients from additional risks of the flu virus.

“We are appealing to people to co-operate with hospital staff. Visitors who arrive without prior agreement from the ward manager will be asked to leave. This is necessary to protect the many very sick patients in the hospital who are vulnerable to infection. It is critical that their care and treatment is not further complicated by the flu.

Inishowen’s 6th Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be taking place on Christmas Day in The Exchange, Castle Avenue, Buncrana from 1pm until 4pm.

This special event is for anyone facing Christmas on their own, coping with a change in circumstances that means Christmas at home might be difficult, or who simply want to do something different for whatever reason.

Whatever your age or situation, you are warmly invited to a delicious, three-course, home-cooked Christmas meal (a full Turkey & Ham dinner with all the trimmings or a vegetarian alternative) along with live entertainment and plenty of craic!

Started by a group of friends and supported thanks to the generosity of the community, this Community Christmas Dinner has become a wonderful annual highlight – a way to celebrate Christmas in the company of old friends (or meet new ones).

The meal is free of charge and transport can be provided if needed (pre-booking is essential).

The organizers are also happy to deliver a Christmas Meal, including dessert, to homes within the Buncrana area for anyone who is housebound.

A huge voluntary effort goes into putting on the meal.

If you would like to help, call in from 6 – 7pm on Monday, December 23, to set up tables and decorate the room, etc. – the more the merrier!

Help is also needed on Christmas Eve to prepare the vegetables.

To book or to request Christmas “meals on wheels” or if you’d like to volunteer on Christmas Day itself, please contact Ruth on 087 795 5401/ exchangeinishowen@gmail.com.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Fisheries, Pat The Cope Gallagher, has cautiously welcomed fishing quotas for 2020 which have been decided early this morning in Brussels.

The Donegal Deputy said there is a cautious welcome to the fishing quotas agreed for 2020 from his party and those Irish fishermen who watch so closely these yearly deliberations.

He said “I do welcome the increases in quotas for mackerel and haddock given their importance to fishing vessels from the North West, in the case of the mackerel increase it is correcting the flawed advice provided by ICES last year.

“The reduction in nephrops, and its importance to Irish fishermen, is very disappointing but not unexpected. What is more concerning is the situation post Brexit. 40% of our nephrops are caught in UK waters. This area could be removed entirely by January 1st 2021 which will severely limit Irish fishing vessels.

“This is why the future relationship between the European Union and the UK is so important. Trade negotiations between the EU and UK will have the biggest outcome for our fishing fleet next year. There could be potentially devastating outcomes for fleets which would have to remain in Port as almost 3000km of a water border would need to be policed.

“We depend so much on access to UK waters it is imperative fish and trade talks are to the fore of future negotiations. Minister Creed, Commissioner Hogan and others have a responsibility in these negotiations to advocate on behalf of the Irish commercial fishing industry,” concluded Deputy Gallagher.

James O’Donnell and Iggy are fast becoming one of Donegal’s most famous duos. 

James, a photographer from Falcarragh, and his sidekick Iggy, a nine-year-old border collie, have been putting Donegal on the map in recent years with their adventures, stories and photos. 

Their social media stories have attracted people to Donegal that have never been before, all because they want to meet Iggy and James for a pint in the Shamrock.

Iggy and James enjoy a pint in the Shamrock. James O’Donnell Photos

James now thinks of himself more as Iggy’s secretary than her owner – such is her level of fame! Many people have meeting Iggy on their bucket list and she is only too happy to be an ambassador for Donegal and local tourism.

James recently turned his passion for photography into a business and has launched a stunning scenic calendar for 2020.

‘Iggy’s Donegal’ is selling quickly in local shops and online – and James has been blown away by the demand. To think that Iggy’s photos will be hanging in offices and homes all over the world, from Japan to Australia to the US, he says, is a fantastic experience.

You can get yours for the New Year now on jamesodonnellphotography.bigcartel.com

James and Iggy: James O’Donnell Photos

This is James’ (and Iggy’s) My Donegal…

1) What is your favourite place in Donegal and why?

The Derryveagh Mountains. Having lived in London for almost 20 years, it gave me a much greater appreciation of the landscape that surrounds Falcarragh and Gortahork. 

The allure of the seven sisters is hard to beat. Myself and Iggy, my ever-present sidekick like to hit the hills quite a bit.

James O’Donnell Photos

(2) Who is the one person in Donegal that you look up to and why?

Iain Millar of Unique Ascent. I first met Iain a couple of years ago when he supervised my mountain skills assessment. 

I was already well aware of his place in the abseiling and rock climbing world, so as a keen hiker myself it was great to have met him. 

I’ve since undergone intensive mountain leader training with him, plus abseiling and rock climbing and I hope to achieve my ML qualifications next year. Iain has been excellent for advice in general and tells you how he sees it (with no BS!!!)  

(3) What’s your happiest Christmas memory in Donegal?

This is a quite recent one. I was best man at my younger brother’s wedding last Christmas. Joseph got married to Shiobhan in Ards Friary. Shiobhan also was the person that introduced me to Instagram, where my photograph sharing all started seven years ago. It was also the first time in years that all brothers and sisters were together for Christmas.

(4) If you could change one thing about Donegal what would it be?

To stop our beaches and bays being destroyed by industrial-scale aquaculture.

(5) What has been Donegal’s proudest moment in recent years?

Up there would have to be Donegal being called the ‘Coolest Place on the Planet’ and Donegal Airport at Carrickfinn, being the Most Scenic in the World.

Iggy in the Coolest Place! James O’Donnell Photos

(6) If you found a magic wand that allowed you to grant one wish for Donegal, what would it be?

To stop the rapidly growing industrial sized aquaculture shellfish farming along our coast.

(7) What is your favourite Donegal-made product?

I love my ‘Bogman Beanie’ by Anna Campbell and my good friend Brenda Hewitt’s fantastic hand woven work with Donal Sweeney Rathlin Knitwear. 

(8) Who is Donegal’s greatest ambassador around the world and why?

It’s hard to single out one person, but I think we’re all ambassadors really. If it’s a simple hello, some craic over a pint, help with directions, advice on what to do and see, when we encounter visitors, can go along way. 

Hopefully these experiences of our renowned hospitality continues to spread around the globe.

(9) What is your earliest memory associated with Donegal?

Growing up in Falcarragh in the 70s. When the town was busy with tourists. I found myself getting to know them My mother back then did B&B so I feel proud now as an adult that this is where I’ve found myself – meeting tourists.

James O’Donnell Photos

(10) What has been the biggest compliment you’ve ever received?

I’ve enjoyed sharing my photography on social media for the last 7 years and I recently put together a calendar on local shots, with Iggy taking centre stage in most of them!

The calendar has gone to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, North America, Canada, throughout Europe, Africa and Britain and in Ireland the support has been fantastic. That has been an amazing compliment but just a few days ago, after lots of conversation, I’ve been officially invited to the United States. A gentleman called Elliot Erwitt and close friend Samuel Holmes have teamed up to bring me to the States next year. Both men are members of the famous Magnum Photos Group and Mr Erwitt has photographed Marilyn Monroe on many occasions, including the moment her skirt blew up by the air vent. 

To have these gentlemen, not only look at my work and talk about it, but to ask me to America is the greatest compliment ever. Mr Holmes, at the age of 95 wants to visit Falcarragh to meet Meself and Herself and to see the stunning natural and unspoilt beauty (including Ballyness Bay) which inspired my photograph.

(11) Who is your favourite Donegal sportsperson of all time?

As a goalkeeper myself (GAA growing up and then soccer in London). I have to go with Packie Bonner.

Iggy at the Shamrock in Falcarragh. O’Donnell Photos

(12) What is your favourite Donegal restaurant/bar?

The Honeypot in Letterkenny and the dog-friendly Shamrock Lodge in Falcarragh.

In fact, Meself and Herself will be visiting the Honeypot on Thursday 19th December for their customer appreciation night. It’s a great chance to get a calendar and people can meet Iggy and get her paw-tograph.

(13) What is your favourite Donegal saying or expression?

Saying hello to someone by just saying ‘Yes’.

(14) What is the biggest challenge facing the people of Donegal today?

I suppose we have to see how this Brexit debacle pans out, with us being the six counties’ largest neighbour.

James O’Donnell Photos

James O’Donnell Photos

(15) What is your favourite food that you associate with Donegal?

Fish n Chips from Something Fishy in Falcarragh!

(16) Is there anything that really annoys you about Donegal or its people?

Thanks for this question! Yes, the use of fog lights at all times of the day/night with no fog anywhere to be seen. Why? 

Also not wearing reflective gear when out walking. 

I personally feel the Wild Atlantic Way left Falcarragh off the map – that has pushed me a little bit to share more from the area. If people see photos from here it might encourage them to come for a day or two.

Okay… rant over!

Iggy at Sliabh Liag. James O’Donnell Photos

(17) Who is your favourite Donegal entrepreneur?

That’s hard to single out one, as there are so many people making a go of it in Donegal. 

But locally, a young fella by the name of Shaun McMullan started a car valeting service recently to fill his days off from his many jobs. So to support him in getting his business off the ground I dropped my car up to him and I’m delighted with the end result. That’s entrepreneurship right there!

(18) If you had a hundred million euro to improve something in Donegal what would it be?

Healthcare, education, infrastructure, and a pavement in between Falcarragh and Gortahork. 

(19) Where’s the most unusual place you’ve logged on to Donegal Daily?

Top of Errigal Mountain!

Iggy on the Seven Sisters Mt Range. James O’Donnell Photos

(20) Nomination for best dressed Donegal person?

That’s a hard one to call too! But it’s a close call between Messrs Manus Kelly and Mickey O’Donnell – both Falcarragh men.

(21) Is there anything about Donegal that you are very proud of? (example: our culture/language)

I’m very proud of the fact that I live in the Gaeltacht and that we have islands and their communities along with Cloughaneely, Gweedore and the Rosses parishes.

(22) What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?

Through my photographs I’ve engaged with people from all the continents on the planet, apart from Antarctica. Though Iain Miller lived there once, so I’ll claim all seven so!

Follow James and Iggy on Facebook : www.facebook.com/JamesODonnellPhotography and on Instagram: www.instagram.com/james_odonnell_photography

A reward has been offered for the safe return of two Lurcher dogs (pictured) which have been missing since Saturday last.

The dogs, both male, went missing in the Annagry area on December 14th.

They are family pets and are greatly missed by their owners.

If you have seen the dogs or know of their whereabouts please call 0861762556.

Donegal chef Derek Creagh recently took a nostalgic journey back to one of his most iconic roles – in the kitchen of top chef Heston Blumenthal.

Blumenthal, whose world-famous The Fat Duck restaurant was once voted the best restaurant in the world, reassembled his award-winning team for a BBC documentary which will air this Thursday night.

One of the culinary stars in his kitchen was none other than Derek Creagh. 

Derek worked with Blumenthal in London in the early noughties before he returned to his roots in Donegal in 2014. He is currently heading up the kitchen at the Foyle Hotel in Moville.

This Thursday on BBC Two at 9pm, Derek will be appearing in Heston’s Marvellous Menu: Back to the Noughties.

Heston Blumenthal, Giles Coren with chefs in the kitchen. BBC/Wonderhood Studios

The documentary will follow celebrated chef Heston Blumenthal as he takes his world-famous restaurant back to 2001. The challenge is to recreate an extraordinary tasting menu with his old team from a significant year for him and The Fat Duck.

The dream team are now some of the UK and Ireland’s most innovative and contemporary chefs. Together, they will cook for high-profile guests synonymous with 2001, using recipes and techniques of the time and reveal how Blumenthal and the team were well ahead of their time almost 20 years ago.

Donegal Deputy Pearse Doherty’s bill on consumer insurance reform has officially passed all stages of the Oireachtas and is on its way to be signed into law by the President.

The Consumer Insurance Contracts Bill was approved by the Dáil on Thursday evening, having passed through the Seanad last week.

It is expected to become law by the end of 2019.

The legislation would modernise insurance contracts and prevent insurance companies refusing a claim when it has not received a full and complete disclosure from the customer, even in a situation where if this information had been disclosed, it would have had minimal or no impact on the decision to provide cover in the first place.

The bill would also make it easier for the customer to withdraw from a contract.

Any company that cancels a policy would also have to pay the customer the outstanding balance of the premium paid.

Deputy Doherty said: “This legislation is the biggest win for policyholders in this Dáil. Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for workers and families.”

Outlining the legislation, Doherty said: “Our Consumer Insurance Contracts Bill will shift the balance in favour of policyholders, by increasing transparency and strengthening the hand of the policyholder during their insurance contract. It is the only legislation that has been passed since 2016 that focusses on policyholders, increasing their protections.

“On a personal note, this is my second piece of legislation to pass through the Oireachtas. The first, the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Bill, was signed into law in July 2017, which strengthened the powers of the Financial Services Ombudsman, and allowed thousands of families to have their cases heard. Like this legislation, it put consumers first, above corporate and vested interests.

“This legislation has been described as the most radical change in consumer law in centuries, and as a game-changer by the Alliance for Insurance Reform.

“It would require companies to inform consumers of the past 5 years of premiums paid by customers, and claims paid to customers and third parties for all non-life insurance contracts.

“From now on, where there is uncertainty in any document or contract, the rule of law and interpretation in favour of the consumer will prevail. Form now on, it will be up to the insurer to ask the relevant questions when a consumer or business takes out a policy, reversing the current status quo which places the burden and responsibility on the consumer to volunteer information.

“Companies will no longer be able to easily settle third party claims without the policyholder knowing. They will have to inform customers of any claim made against their policy, allowing them to submit their own evidence and informing them of the cost of any claim against their policy that has been settled. 

“After last week’s revelations of some, enabled by the legal industry, engaging in fraudulent claims, this provision is crucial. It would ensure that policyholders would be told of any third party claims made against their policy, fraudulent or otherwise, and have a right to submit evidence concerning the claim.

“The legislation would also make it harder for an insurer to wriggle out of paying valid claims on grounds that have nothing to do with the accident or loss incurred by the policyholder.

“I want to thank Minister D’Arcy for his cooperation in facilitating the passage of this Bill. We now on track for it to be signed into law by Christmas,” Doherty concluded.

Gardaí are advising people not to drive unless absolutely necessary tonight as high winds continue to hit Ireland.

They say trees are down on roads in many areas of the country.

A number of trees have been reported down and there are some power outages.

There are reports of trees down on the Rockhill Road at Bomany outside Letterkenny and also in Donegal Town.

People have also been advised to stay away from the coastline and cliffs.

Met Éireann said it will remain very windy with severe and damaging gusts in parts of Connacht for a time as a result of Elsa – an Atlantic storm system.

Strong southerly winds, veering southwest, will reach mean speeds of 65-80km/h, with gusts up to 120km/h.

A Status Yellow wind warning for most of the country is in effect until 3am tomorrow (Thurs).

A man wanted in connection with child sexual offences in Inishowen was handed over to Gardaí at the border last Thursday after losing his battle against a European Arrest Warrant.

The man, who cannot be named due to reporting restrictions applied by the court, was brought to Buncrana District Court after the PSNI brought him to Bridgend.

Detective Garda Siobhan Tighe told the court that she charged the man with three counts of sexual assault against a child, alleged to have occurred in North Inishowen in 1991.

After the first charge, Det. Gda.Tighe said the man, who is aged 60, replied ‘no, not yet’ and after the second and third charges, he replied ‘no’.

She told the court that the man had been wanted in relation to the alleged charges since 2015, but had been challenging a European Arrest Warrant before the High Court and the Supreme Court in the North since 2017.

However the court heard that the man’s attempts to fight against the arrest warrant had failed after the Supreme Court refused his application. He was subsequently brought to court in Northern Ireland where bail was revoked and the PSNI transported him to Bridgend where he was handed over to Gardaí.

Garda Inspector Siobhan Mollohan said the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed trial on indictment before the Circuit Court but they were awaiting the Book of Evidence to be produced.

Det. Gda.Tighe said she was objecting to bail on three points – the seriousness of the charges, the nature and strength of the evidence against him and his likelihood to abscond given the fact that he ‘evaded’ the EU arrest warrant for a number of years.

“This man has not co-operated with Gardaí at all,” said Det. Gda.Tighe.

“I had to put in a request via Interpol in 2015. In 2016 I was informed by Interpol that the man was aware of the charges against him after being informed by the PSNI. The European Arrest Warrant was executed in November 2017 and he has fought it since.

“This man was informed to contact me at Buncrana Garda Station but at no point did he do this and today is the first day I have met him.”

Defence barrister Gareth McGrory BL from Madden and Finucane Solicitors said his client had been on bail in Northern Ireland since the EU arrest warrant was executed and there had been no issue with his client complying with strict bail conditions, which included signing one three days a week, since then.

“These are also just allegations and my client denies the allegations and will continue to maintain that throughout the trial,” Mr. McGrory BL stated.

“It could be a considerable about of time before this case comes before the Circuit Court – he is anxious to have the matter resolved.

“He is not a flight risk, he is married with children and settled in Northern Ireland and is happy to surrender his passport and sign on in this jurisdiction. We are also in a position to offer a cash surety from his daughter to the amount of €5,000,” the defence barrister added.

He also stressed the importance of a publication order to restrict any press reporting that could reveal the man’s identity. He said the man had fought for an injunction to have his name kept out of the media in Northern Ireland but was automatically entitled to the right to anonymity at this stage in Donegal.

Judge Paul Kelly said he would grant bail under certain circumstances, including the €5,000 independent surety. He must also sign on weekly at Buncrana Garda Station and have no contact with any witnesses involved the case whatsoever.

The 60-year-old must surrender his passport and be contactable by mobile phone 24 hours a day. He remanded the case back to Buncrana in February for production of the book of evidence.

Judge Kelly also granted the man legal aid, in the name Michael Halleron of Madden and Finucane Solicitors, and applied a publication order in order to protect the identity of the alleged victim involved.

DD Motoring correspondent Brian McDaid talks about the silent killer on our roads – tiredness.

The phone in our house rang, it was the guards, they were looking to talk to Brian McDaid. A lot when through my mind in those fractions of seconds between the end of one sentence and the start of another one.

It was a cold dark winters evening just before Christmas. I was trying to figure out what the next sentence was going bring before it travelled down the Garda Station phone to our home.

All I could hear was my heart thumping in my head waiting a for what had to bad news to sink in. Maybe they might have the wrong Brian McDaid, that has happened before not that I would wish this news on anyone else. The thought flashed through my head that news like this was supposed to be delivered in person on someone’s front door by the guards with the hat under the arm.

The dreaded call from the Garda station that no one wants to get, especially over Christmas. Photo Brian McDaid.

“I’m all right Brian don’t be panicking,” was the first words, I heard him say which were great words to hear. What’s wrong Mark, which Garda station are you in, I’ll go for you right away.

“Well,l’ll tell you what happened, I was up from Ards to get a few last-minute things in Letterkenny, and the traffic was very bad on the way into the town and I have a bad old cold at the moment so I was all wrapped up in that fleece yous gave me last Christmas and was sitting on the High Rd in the traffic jam waiting on the lights a Crossview House.”

The thought goes through my mind that he has run into the back of someone. “Is the car bad?” I asked interrupting his version of events. “The car?” he says sounding surprised. “The car’s grand.” Well what happened then, as I was telling you I was up from Ards to get some final shopping- MARK you told me all that, why are you in the Garda station?”

Mark said “Well when the lights finally went green at Crossview House I must have dozed off and the first thing I knew was this friendly Garda who is sitting beside me here now who must have spotted me and came over and tapped on my window and wakened me. The car was sitting stationary so the only damage was done was of that to the tempers of the drivers that were sitting in the traffic behind me. So as this happened on the High Rd just opposite the Garda station. The guard asked me to park the car and come up to the Garda Station for a cup of tea. And because he told them what a told you about coming up from Ards this evening. They didn’t want him to get back in the car until he had a rest.”

I collected a slightly embarrassed uncle at the Garda station and the more both of us were thankful for the vigilance of the Garda who was on foot patrol that winters evening to spot a driver sleeping behind the wheel. We could see the funny side of this especially when no damage was done.

A portrait of the late Fr. Mark Coyle who ended up in the barracks after falling asleep at the wheel.

This happened a good few years ago on this week on the run into Christmas sometime before 2004 because back then after the incident, he didn’t want his big sister, the Late Bida Deeney to know about it and to be worrying about him on the road.

Looking back now I’m sure if he thought he could help highlight a very common and dangerous problem he wouldn’t mind us sharing his story. Something facing drivers especially on cold weather days when we have the heaters and air condition up full blast inside it can be very easy to confuse your body that your in a comfortable place and before you know it you have dozed off.

People who have never suffered from this dangerous problem of falling asleep behind the wheel might think it never really happens but as a suffer of this problem myself I know too well how dangerous it could be.

The shock of this happening if your lucky enough not to crash will be enough to bring you to your senses. It is recommended at the first signs of tiredness that you pull over, drink a coffee and have a rest. But how many people really listen to that advice especially if their journey is local.

Focus on the road this Christmas and beware of the effects of tierdness can play behind the wheel of a car. Photo Brian McDaid.

It’s ok to stop if your tired on a journey to Dublin from Donegal, but unfortunately, even if people know their tired and are anyway near home they will keep driving which in my opinion is the dangerous part of any journey, Being familiar with the road and suffering from tiredness is a lethal mix, cars are too quiet now and it’s so easy to forget that you are in charge when you are behind the wheel,

Changing the environment.

If Stopping is not an option try and change the comfort of the car.

Three things that help me if I find myself falling asleep behind the wheel, The first is to change the car down a gear from top, and driving it in that unstable gear, This is not only about slowing the car down but it also makes you more aware of the car and the throttle will respond differently in lower gears The second down a window a small bit which is a very effective way of reducing the temperature a bit but also lets you hear the sound of the car on the road and the third is to turn up the radio or turn it over to a station that is not comfortable listening to.

Changing down to a lower gear can make you more aware of the car if your driving when tired. Photo Brian McDaid.

I find that these three things change the environment inside the car from comfort zone back to you being aware that you are driving a car. if you can find a place to pull over to get a cup of coffee, that will always be the better option but on the run into Christmas everything is done at the last minute and little time is given to getting from A to B or the condition of the driver behind the wheel is never considered.

On the run-in to Christmas, everyone is doing their part to reduce the accidents on the roads from speeding and alcohol. As of yet, there is no measurement for tiredness of a driver. That’s down to your own instinct when you get behind the wheel, break the comfort zone if you feel tired, take that little bit of time to recharge your batteries as only you will know about your tiredness until something happens on the road and by then for some, it is too late.

Happy Motoring Folks

More than 600 homes and businesses were impacted by power outages in Donegal last night as high winds and stormy conditions hit the west coast of Ireland.

The storm, named Storm Elsa, brought gusts of up to 120km/h to counties Galway and Mayo during the night, with parts of Galway affected by damaging floods.

Electricity outages are reported in four parts of Donegal this morning.

ESB Networks are working to repair the following faults in the county:

Almost 400 customers in Dungloe are without electricity, estimated restore time is 2pm.

165 customers are affected in Glenties, estimated restore time is 2pm.

Up to 57 properties are affected in Donegal Town, estimated restore time is 2pm.

27 customers are without power in Ballyshannon, estimated restore time is 2pm.

There were also several reports of fallen trees in the county last night, and drivers are being advised to take care and watch out for wind-blown debris on the roads.

Dental services have resumed at Lifford Community Hospital this week after they were transferred out of the town three months ago to allow for building works.

The HSE Dental Clinic at Lifford Community Hospital currently operates 3 days per week serving the Lifford, Raphoe and St Johnston area. It reopened for appointments on Wednesday 18th December.

In September, Dental Services were temporarily transferred from the Dental Clinic at Lifford to Dental Clinics in both Stranorlar and Letterkenny as remedial building works were required on the premises to ensure they complied with HIQA standards.

The HSE says remedial works have been completed relating to the dental clinical and immediate adjoining rooms, which are connected to the main hospital but external to it.

These works consisted of building and site structure improvements which the HSE says will enhance and improve the quality of patient care.

“We wish to apologise to any inconvenience caused to our service users and would like to thank them for their cooperation, while these essential works were ongoing,” a spokesperson said.