A pub owner has been left to pick up the pieces after thieves forced there way into his bar by breaking in through the roof causing more than €10,000 in damage. 

Damien McFadden, proprietor of The Lagan Inn, Manorcunningham, revealed his bar was broken into in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The thieves entered the premises by breaking in through the ceiling of the toilets but fled empty-handed after the bar’s alarm was activated.

The pub’s Eircom security alarm system was triggered off when the thieves entered the lounge area of the bar automatically alerting the Gardai.

The thieves triggered the alarm at 5.56 am on Sunday, and the response from the Gardai was prompt.

The damaged toilets in the bar.

Mr McFadden praised Gardai whom he revealed were on the scene within just eleven minutes of the alarm being triggered.

Mr McFadden’s mother, who lives above the bar, was awoken by the alarm and witnessed two men running from the building.

The well-known bar-owner told Donegal Daily that the damage to the roof is severe and the cost of repairs could exceed €10,000 overall.

“I got to the bar around 9.30am and I attempted to establish if anything had been stolen. It quickly became clear there hadn’t been anything taken.

“The alarm frightened the life out of them, and they made their exit before they had time to take anything.

“Then I went to check the toilets and was horrified at what I saw.

“They were completely destroyed. It became clear they came down through the roof in to the toilets and they were just in an absolute mess.

“We’ve a flat roof and they cut away at the rubber on it and then lifted the chip board with probably a nail bar, and once they had that lifted, they kicked in the suspended ceiling into the toilets.”

The severe extent of the damage now means he will have to pay over €10,000 just to get everything in order again.

“The carpenter has ruled out a patch job, he can’t guarantee it would hold-up because the rubber is cut at different points, so you’re looking at a pretty expensive job now to get everything back in order.

“It’s absolutely gutting, but hopefully we can catch those responsible for the break-in.”

McFadden also believes the pair of thieves were local as they seemed familiar with the bar when they made their exit from the pub.

“We were very busy over the weekend and they made they’re exit through the front door. Considering it was dark, you’d need to be fairly familiar with the bar to find where the double bolts are on the door in the dark.

“They also left on foot so those responsible could well be local,” he suggested.

McFadden said forensic experts had been at the scene and carried out an extensive search of the premises.

“They spent a good hour and a half looking for prints but they said those involved had rubber gloves on and that they could find it hard to get any prints,” he revealed.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses who may have been in the area at that time and noticed something suspicious to come forward now.

Monday 7th welcomed the second outing of the Cat. 4. competitors and taking top honour over the nine holes by virtue of BOT was Garvin Mc Gahey [28] with Joe Curran [26] relegated to second spot.  

Mon. 14th Cat. 4, enjoying a great resurgence this year already, was played in the most pleasant of evenings so far and taking pride of place this week was Columba Crawford with 21 pts. over nine holes,closely followed by John Bradley on 20pts.

Wed. 9th Open saw another cat. 4 player and regular prizewinner from 2013 Pluincead O’ Fearraigh [22] pick up first prize with a tremendous 43pts.

With a run of pars from 2nd to 5th culminating in 23pts on front nine, Pluincead’s steady nett par golf on back nine was enough to see him through.

In runner-up spot was Eugene O’ Donnell [16], who, despite a “blank” at 7th, posted birdies at 15th and 18th for 22pts on back nine and a return of 41pts.

Friday 11th Open “Meal Deal” saw some “Masters” type scoring from the top two positions where Aiden Friel [9], having finished the front nine in two over gross 38 shots, realized that he needed to tighten up and, with the help of birdies at 16th and 18th, shot level par 36 gross on back nine to record a 74 gross, [two over par], 65 nett.

Just one shot behind, having returned his best score to date at Barnhill, was single figure handicapper Gerard Duffy [5].

With just one “disappointing” birdie on front nine for an outward 38 gross, Gerard recorded birdies at 11th, 12th, 15th and 18th, with a bogey interruption at 17th, giving him an inward nine score of 33 shots, [three under par], best gross 71 and 66 nett. Much to his delight, Gerard is now competing of a four handicap.

Sat. 12th Open once again saw “King” Kenny [King] coming to the fore with a well fought 40pts.

Despite a double bogey start at first and a welcome 19pts on front nine, Kenny settled into winning mode and a birdie at 17th helped him to a 21pt., gross 37 on back nine and an overall winning score of 40pts.

Running a close second was the Cat 4. winner from the beginning of the week, Garvin Mc Gahey [28] who, despite a couple of nasty “blanks” on the card, finished with an impressive 39pts.

Gross on the day was collected by Jamie Foley.[4] Sunday 13th confined was won by another cat.4. regular Conor Doherty [28] who, with a terrific 23pts on front nine, must have thought that he had “blown” it with a blank at 17th but managed to return an overall 40pts for his first prize of the season.

In runner-up spot was Michael Forde [14] who, with the help of a birdie at par five 18th and 22pts on back nine, managed to pip third placed Hugo Daly [20], by virtue of BOT, with a 39pt. total, Hugo’s double bogey at 14th being his downfall.

Best gross score on the day was returned by Martin A. Gallagher [7]. Mon. 14th Juvenile Easter Holiday competition was won by Fred Daly stalwart Jack Patton [6] with a very worthy 39pts.

Despite a bogey at first and a three over par front nine 39 gross, Jack’s birdies at 15th and 18th, intertwined with a double bogey at 17th, gave him an inward nine finish of 21pts., 75 gross shots, for a BOT triumph over first year starter Ronan Daly [28], who also shot a very commendable 39pts.

In a field of over twenty competitors, best gross was returned by Christopher Duffy [6].

N.B. Due to the Classic on Good Friday, 18th April, the next Friday “Meal Deal” will continue on Friday 25th April.

Congratulations to LK Golf Club Junior member Jack Patton [5] on his prizewinning gross score in the Rosapenna Junior Scratch Cup on Saturday last.

Important Note:

One of the highlights of the early season, the club’s Voucher competition, has been re-scheduled to Sunday 11th May.

With “hollow-tinning” of the greens last week and this, the committee has respected the club’s members and considered it duly unsporting to proceed with such an esteem competition at this time.

CLUB CLASSIC

Members and visitors are reminded of the 4 person CLUB CLASSIC for both men and ladies on Good Friday, 18th April.

Entry just €80 per team.

Members are also reminded to collect their new AIG sponsored GUI Membership cards in the Pro. Shop.

Browns on the Green

Members are reminded that the members bar will be open Good Friday from 12 noon and bar food will be available.

Easter Sunday night will be enlivened by music from John Harley in the members bar, commencing @ 10pm.

Football

Aodh Ruadh maintained their 100 percent home record with a convincing 4-19 to 1-1 win over a makeshift Carndonagh selection in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Jamie McDonald was man of the match with a dynamic attacking display. 

As well as scoring 1-5, all from play, he also set up a number of other scores. He stood out in a performance were every man in white and green had a game they could be very happy with. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh are on the road this Good Friday, travelling to take Milford in the league. The reserve game throws in at 5.30pm and is followed by the seniors at 7pm.

After losing their previous game against Ardara, the Aodh Ruadh minors had a point to prove against a strong, physical Four Masters side on Wednesday evening in Father Tierney Park. Once again, Aodh Ruadh started well and maintained this momentum throughout the first half. They played with a slight breeze and made full use of this advantage, running up a nine point to two advantage over the Donegal Town men. Philip Patton, Shane McGrath, Colm Kelly and Oisín Rooney all getting on the scoreboard. Indeed, the young Oisín Rooney worked tirelessly throughout the first half aided by the industrious Oisín Roper and Ryan McKenna. The second half was always going to be more difficult task against the ever increasing breeze. Dónal Sweeny replaced the injured Niall Harley at full forward and Eugene Drummond at full back was instrumental in providing leadership when the Donegal Town men staged their comeback. Aodh Ruadh could only manage one score from play and two from frees in the second half to Four Masters seven points. Ryan McKenna was also unlucky to receive a straight red card after a fracas occurred in mid-field with a number of players from both side getting involved in a game of ‘Handbags At Dawn.’ Aodh Ruadh managed to hold out for a deserved win on a final scoreline of Aodh Ruadh 0-12 Four Masters 0-9, with Nathan Boyle, Jack Darban and Eddie Lynch all performing well on the day. The scorers were Philip Patton 0-5, Shane McGrath 0-3, Colm Kelly, Oisín Rooney and Nathan Boyle 0-1 apiece. Saint Naul’s conceded the game due for Sunday, so that concludes the minors league programme leaving them currently second in the section one table and waiting on the results of Dungloe/Na Rossa’s final two games to establish their final standing. Further league action notwithstanding the next competitive action will be in the championship against Naomh Columba at the end of May.

The under 14s are down to travel to Glencolumbkille this Saturday to take on Naomh Columba at 12 noon. Training continues on Wednesdays from 4.30pm to 5.45pm.

There is a slight change to under 12 training times. Training takes place on Saturday morning from 10.45am to 12 noon and Wednesday evening from 6.15pm to 7.30pm. May we also remind parents that children should be collected promptly after training.

The under 10s had their first game of the season last Saturday when they took on Naomh Bríd. Erne Gaels had been forced to withdraw at short notice due to a death in the club, for which we record our sincere condolences. Naomh Bríd were great to step in at short notice, although crossed wires meant they sent up their under 12s. Still both sides entered into the game in the right spirit and both squads learned lot from the experience. There were a lot of gutsy, brave performances from Aodh Ruadh in what was a very encouraging outing. The team were Kenzie Ayres, Daniel Breen, Conor Cleary, Oisín Daly, Padraig Daly, Ryan Daly, Shane Delahunty, Michael Doogan, JJ Doran, Darragh Flood Dolan, Jack Gallagher, James Gallagher, Aaron Horan, Eoghan Kelly, James McGinley, Shane McGloin, Cian McKenna, Cillian Meehan, Aaron Neilan, Tom Murphy, David Roper and Eoin Summerville. Also worth a mention was the Naomh Bríd goalkeeper who pulled off a series of super stops. Thanks also to Gerard Ferguson who delivered a Pat McEnaney level of officiating. We have some shots of the action up on aodhruadh.org. Midweek training takes place on Wednesday night this week from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Also, note that we will be doing our second skills test of the year this Saturday, so get your practicing your pick-ups, solos, hand-passing, punt passing and shooting, all off the left and right. Results and awards at Wednesday training the week following.

Under 8 and under 6 training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. We have some shots from last Friday’s session up on aodhruadh.org.

Ladies

It’s that quacking time of year again for Aodh Ruadh Ladies, families and friends. Clare has the eggs bought in and the ducks will be lapping it up at McKenna’s Brook in the East Port this Saturday 19th April at 2pm. Looking forward to seeing you all there! Players please remember to return your cards to your coaches before Saturday. Ducks can be bought for only €2 this week from any of our players.

There has been a great response to selling the lotto from our senior players – maith sibh. We still need more volunteers from the parents of our underage players. You may only have to do one slot if everyone gives it a go, so please give your name to Eoin O’Moore who has the rota.

Our under 12s played their first match of the season against a very strong Glencar Manorhamilton team on Saturday. Well done to everyone involved. We look forward to more games ahead for this young under 12 team. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. Training continues for under 8s, under 10s and under 12s on Mondays from 6-7pm.

Good luck to our under 14s who play their first competitive game away today, Tuesday, against Four Masters. Next week they will be away again, this time to Bundoran.

There has been great interest throughout many clubs in the County in the FUNdamentals Coaching Course. The next course is taking place on Saturday 26th April in a venue to be confirmed in the middle of the county. We hope to have some representation on this course. If you are interested please give your name to any committee member. We may organise a car pool.

Hurling

Well done to Donegal on clinching promotion to NHL Division 2B with a 2-16 to 0-8 victory over Fingal, especially our five representatives on the panel, Paul Sheridan, Stephen Sheerin, Ciaran Kilgannon, Chris Kilgannon and Paul Hughes. Sheridan started in midfield while Ciaran Kilgannon was introduced as a second half sub.

Aodh Ruadh’s first outing in Garvaghey in the Ulster Hurling league saw a below par performance from the Ernesiders as they lost out to Sean Treacey’s of Lurgan, 3-11 to 0-5. Ballyshannon were let down by their accuracy with the wides getting into double figures, while the defence will not have been happy with any of three goals conceded. Eddie Lynch hit a point with Ciaran Kilgannon making an instant impression when he was introduced late on, notching two points. Elsewhere Thomas Anderson gave an honest performance in defence, but Aodh Ruadh will be looking for a much improved display this Bank Holiday Monday when they travel to O’Donnell park to take on Saint Eunan’s. Throw in for that Ulster League game will be 4pm, with players departing the park at 2pm.

The underage leagues continued last Thursday as both Aodh Ruadh teams recorded great victories over traditional Donegal kingpins Burt. The under 14s made the long trip to Hibernian Park for their game and the young squad, majority of whom are underage again next year put on a great performance full of heart and determination and they ran out convincing winners on a 4-4 to 1-3 scoreline. They are away to MacCumhaill Park this Thursday where they will face a difficult game against the home side.

The minors continued their good start to the league with a huge victory over Burt in Father Tierney Park. Despite missing a number of players due to their involvement with the county minor football team and injuries, the reigning league champions played very well, in a display full of passion and skill. They managed to keep Burt scoreless and scored 4-14 themselves. One of the most pleasing aspects of this performance was the introduction of three under 15s to minor hurling. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. The two results last Thursday are an indication of the hard work and dedication being put in by players and management over the last few years, well done to all. The minors continue their league campaign against an unbeaten Carndonagh side this Thursday in Father Tierney Park. This game has an earlier throw in time of 6pm.

In preparation for the upcoming season the under 10s had an enjoyable run out against Four Masters in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday. The lads played very well showing no rustiness in their first game of the year and they ran out easy winners against their neighbours. Thanks to the most enthusiastic parents who turned out to support the lads.

Numbers are continuing to increase every Sunday morning at our weekly training sessions which is great to see. Training continues as normal this Sunday at 12 noon.

On Sunday 27th April the under 8s and under 10s will take part in the first all-County blitz of the year which will be held in Convoy.

Club Hoodies

We have most of the hoodies from the first order distributed at this stage. I’ll be in contact with those who have yet to collect over the next while to make arrangements to get them their hoodies. Reaction has been very positive and we already have a fair few bookings for the next order. If you would like to order a club hoodie contact John on 0876431805 or email info@aodhruadh.org. They are stylish, comfortable and great value with adult sizes €26 and kids sizes €22. Trying on a sizing sample is recommended as they are a large fit and people are often taking a size smaller than they would usually go for.

Final push for Farrah

With Farrah Bogle in the Glór Tíre final on TG4 she needs one final push to take her to the top spot. We have been privileged to have Farrah deliver stylish renditions of the anthem in the Park in recent years so now it’s our turn to give her a hand along. You can show your support for Farrah by texting; GLOR7 to 53307 or from the six counties to 60999. Remember you can vote as often as you like up until mid-day on Wednesday.

Aodh Ruadh Bingo

The €800 jackpot at last Friday’s bingo was shared between Linda Fay and Ann Mulhern of Donegal Town. Bingo as usual in the Abbey Centre this Friday at 9pm. Full books €10, Half books €5.

Lotto

There was no winner of the €8,500 Aodh Ruadh Lotto jackpot last Sunday. The numbers drawn were 5, 6, 9, 13, 15 and 18. In the lucky dip €20 each went to: John Travers, Donegal Road; Mary Conlon, Cornhill; Owen Roe O’Neill, East Port; Mary Devlin Millrace Crescent, Donegal Town; and Cian McKenna, Tullymore. Next draw is in The Mall Bar on Monday at 8.30pm. The jackpot is €8,600 so get out there and buy your ticket; if you’re not in, you can’t win!

The lotto team for McCosker’s Centra this Saturday is: JUVENILE FOOTBALLERS.

The lotto team for Kernan’s Spar this Saturday is: SENIOR HURLERS.

You can receive the club notes by e-mail every Tuesday morning. To subscribe, enter your details on the website, www.aodhruadh.org, or e-mail your request to info@aodhruadh.org.

This is the weekly e-mail newsletter from Aodh Ruadh GAA Club. If you have received it in error, please contact us at info@aodhruadh.org.

Follow us on the social media

Facebook: Aodh Ruadh CLG

Twitter: @aodhruadh.

Gaeil Fhánada Lotto Plus ‘Win Donegal V Derry Tickets’

No Jackpot winner. Numbers 11, 13, 14, 18, 20. Bonus 19. €100 Winner Sally Patsy Gallagher, Meenlaragh, €50 Winner Neal J. Blaney, Rosnakill. Next Week’s Jackpot is €2,500. As our jackpot grows we would like to invite you to try your luck in our weekly lotto draw. For the months of April and May, every lotto ticket you buy will be entered into a draw for two tickets to the Donegal v Derry Ulster Championship first round game, which is a guaranteed sell out. So come on, try your luck, while supporting your local club. 

100 Club Draw Winners

€500 winner Róisín Ní Bheaglaoich, Seanach, €250 Michael Sweeney, Doaghbeg & €250 Áine agus Mairéad Ní Chonaglaigh, Dumhach Bheag.

100 Club Draw (new)

There are a number of places still remaining for the clubs monthly 100 Club Draw. Contact any committee member if you would like to enter the draw by end of the month.

Upcoming Senior Games Easter Weekend

Good Friday – St Naul’s v Gaeil Fhánada

Senior League Division 2 – Round 2 -. Páirc Gearóid O’Gallachóir @ 7:00 PM

Referee: Ian Molloy

Senior Reserve League Division 2- Round 2 @ 5:30 PM.

Ref: Mark Brown

Easter Sunday Gaeil Fhánada v Gleann Fhinne

Senior League Division 2 – Round 3. Pairc Uí Shiail @ 3:00 PM

Ref: Paddy Mc Gonigle

Senior Reserves League Division 2 – Round 3 @ 1:30 PM.

Ref: Pat Walsh

Sean Mac Cumhaills v Gaeil Fhánada Reserve

Gaeil Fhánada played a very under strength team against Sean Mac Cumhaills in the League last Saturday with 9 players missing from Gaeil Fhánada’s normal reserve team. Mac Cumhaill’s played well with a goal also in last kick of game. Best for Gaeil Fhánada were Aidan Heraghty, Ken Dempsey and Paul ‘Doogie’ Coyle. Final score 2:10 to 0:06. Team: Brendan ’Nanny’ Friel, Conor McGonigle, Ken Dempsey, Shaun Coyle, Michael Heraghty, Ultan McGettigan, Aidan Heraghty, Paddy McAteer, Paul ‘Doogie’ Coyle, Shaun McGovern, Eamon Carr, Colm McGonigle, Johnny ‘Nanny’ Friel, Stephen McGonigle, Charlie Crerand. Subs were: Conor McFadden for Shaun Coyle, Declan Coyle for Charlie Crerand, Conor McConigley for Stephen McGonigle. Referee: Shaun McHale

Sean Mac Cumhaill’s v Gaeil Fhánada Match report

Seami ‘Nanny’ Friel scored a stoppage time free to give his Gaeil Fhánada side a narrow one-point win against Sean MacCumhaill’s on Saturday night in the All-County Football League Division Two. Sean MacCumhaill’s 0:11 v Gaeil Fhánada 1:09. Friel was in excellent form all evening for the team managed by Kevin Gallagher, scoring seven points in all at county headquarters. Gaeil Fhánada looked to be breezing toward the two points after a dominant first half that saw them go in at the break 1-6 to 0-4 in front. Their goal came on 20 minutes when a Friel effort fell just under the crossbar and although MacCumhaill’s goalkeeper Rory Patton got two hands on the ball, he couldn’t keep hold of it and Oisin Shiels tucked home the rebound. In that first half, Michael Sweeney was also impressive with darting runs and Brendan Dunleavy’s hosts had their work cut out. After the break, though, the locals made their way back into the game with Gavin Gallagher and Shane Duffy finding their range. Darren O’Leary’s third point of the half tied it up two minutes from time and at that stage MacCumhaill’s were the shorter odds on the betting in running. Eoghan Wright saw an effort drop into Mark McConigley’s chest and O’Leary’s pop at goal was just wide before Friel sealed the win with a close range free at the other end. (2 black cards awarded to Mac Cumhaills Lafferty -37th min, G Dunnion – 49th min). Team: Mark McConigley; Joe Blaney, Fergal Friel, Cathal Martin; Ronan McAteer, Patrick McConigley, Ryan McGonigle; Kevin McElwaine, Michael Sweeney (0-2); Aidan McAteer, Seami ‘Nanny’ Friel (0-7; 5f, 45), Marty McAteer; Oisin Shiels (1-0), Mark Friel, Seimi ‘Coshia’ Friel. Sub: Frankie Sweeney for McGonigle (5mins). Referee: Shaun McLaughlin (Malin).

Under Age Games: If anyone/parent/supporter would be willing to give match reports on games please contact PRO Margaretta 0868744405/m_mcconigley@yahoo.com. We all know our players especially underage players, love to see their names in the paper/internet and as we cannot get to all games we would really appreciate all the help we can get, so if anyone is willing to give match reports/photos please contact PRO, thanks.

U14s All games at 7p.m. Congratulations to our U14s who travelled to play away to Gweedore last Monday evening and won 6:06 to 5:11. Great team effort by all. Scorers were Mark McAteer 3:05, Sean Kerr 1:02, Darren McElwaine 1:01, Christopher Friel 0:01, Eoghan McGrenaghan 0:01, Bernard McGettigan 0:01.

Under 12 training

Under 12 training takes place on Saturday at 11 o’clock in Portsalon. All children must wear gumshields and bring their own water bottle. €2 per child. New players are always welcome!!

If anybody is interested or willing to help out with this team please contact Gerard Shiels, Stephen McGrenaghan or Patrick Heraghty. U12’s Group this year: Downings, Letterkenny Gaels, Temon, Milford, St. Eunans A, Cloughaneely, Gaoth Dobhair, Glenswilly and St. Michaels’s. First game to start May 5th at home to Letterkenny Gaels.

U6′s – 11.00am to 11.45am. U6′s born 2008, 2009.

U8′s and u10′s – 11.00am till 12.00. U8′s born 2006, 2007. U10′s born 2004, 2005.

All boys and girls must wear gumshields and bring their own water bottle, €2 per child or €3 per family of 2 or more children. Further info contact Martin McAteer 0749163472.

Ladies Gaelic Football

Gaeil Fhánada are committed to ladies /girls football and continue to encourage people to get involved. If you are interested in helping out with an underage girls team, please contact Marian Howe or Fiona Shiels asap.

Suicide Awareness Course:

We hope to run a 3 hour Suicide Awareness Course which would be beneficial to anyone working with teenagers. If you are interested please contact Michael McGroarty or Fiona Shiels.

Match Day Passes

We have a number of match day passes (at €50) on sale which may be of interest to anyone attends a lot of club fixtures. The card will give holders admittance to all senior fixtures, league and championship run by Donegal County Board. It does not include intercounty or underage games. The card offers excellent value for money. As we have a limited number, cards will be sold on a first come basis. Contact Fiona Shiels to purchase.

VHI Cúl Camp

Gaeil Fhánada C.L.G. will once again host a Cúl Camp from July 14th to 19th. Bookings can be made online at http://www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie/ or you can contact Fiona Shiels if you would like to pay by instalLment.

Volunteers needed:

According to our Coaching Officer, Patrick Heraghty, it is getting increasingly difficult to attract people to help out with underage teams, however, he is constantly on the lookout for any person willing to give a hand. Feel free to contact him if you can help out with either boys or girls teams this year.

Next Club Committee Meeting will take place on Wednesday April 30th in Fanad Lodge.

Deontaisí ar fáil:

Beidh 4 dheontas de €250 ar fáil ó C.L.G. Dhún na nGall fa choinne baill de chlubanna atá ag freastail ar Choláistí Gaelige i nDún na nGall agus fosta 8x€250 ó Choláiste na bhFiann ‘den chúrsa i nGaoth Dobhair. Bí i dteagmháil le Fiona Ní Shiail ma bfhiil suim agat ann!

CLG Dhún na nGall will sponsor 4 grants of €250 to members attending a Coláiste Gaeilge of their choice in Dún na nGall. In addition, Coláiste na bhFiann are sponsoring 8 x €250 grants for members of CLG. Dhún na nGall who wish to attend their course in Gaoth Dobhair. Contact Fiona Shiels if you’re interested.

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Independent candidate Donal Cullen has urged voters disillusioned with the current political system in Donegal, that the time for change is now.   

Cullen 33, from Carrigart is confident he can represent the views of his local constituents and has urged them to let him be their voice at local County Council level.

He captures this belief in his political motto – “A voice of the people for the people.”

Cullen a graduate in Irish History and Politics from the University of Ulster has been passionate about politics for years.

Cullen believes Donegal have been hit harder than most during the economic downturn with severe austerity measure being implemented across different sectors of the county.

The recent closure of the Largo Foods Plant in Gweedore, was another grim reminder of the devastating consequences the recession has had on rural Ireland.

According to Cullen, the public representatives elected here in Donegal, haven’t done enough regarding some of the major issues, and are too busy playing party politics in the council chambers.

Cullen told Donegal Daily, “The time for change is now, people are fed up of the political elite of FG and FF talking waffle, they’ve their own political agendas and they’re not representing the views of their constituents.

“People want change change and this forthcoming coming elections is a chance for change.

“The more Independent candidates elected the better, the council chambers is stale, and it needs new blood that are actually interested in helping this county recover.

As an Independent councillor Cullen will bring politics back to the people and ensure it’s relevance.

“Politics is about people and comes from the people.

“The established parties have created the current problem, it is now for political change.

Cullen has told his supporters, he will offer honesty, integrity, transparency and a commitment to people to the people and he will work tirelessly on your behalf.

Vote Donal Cullen No.1 on May 23rd.

Gardai are investigating the discovery of a body on the Bundoran shoreline today.

The body of a man was taken from the water this morning near the Crest of the Wave estate area. It is believed that the body was in the water for some time.

The remains were taken to Sligo General Hospital for a post mortem examination.

A garda spokesperson said that the outcome of the post mortem exam will determine the course of their investigation.

The man has not yet been formally identified.

A CO Donegal solicitor who blew €177,000 of his clients’ monies to top up his pension and pay his household bills has lost a bid to keep his identity secret.

Andrew G Morrow, practising as David Wilson and Co Solicitors, Raphoe, has been found guilty by the law society of dishonesty in his practice.

He admitted using money from the firm’s client account for his personal pension contributions, health insurance, home bills, credit card payments and his mother’s care costs.

He also admitted trying to hide the losses and was attempting to pay the money back by taking out a loan.

Mr Justice David Keane froze the solicitor’s bank accounts and Morrow agreed not to practice as a solicitor to all legal proceedings had ended.

Nessa Bird for the Law Society told a Dublin court that the society’s investigation of Morrow’s practice revealed a minimum deficit of €177,657 in the client account. She said the society had been unable to ascertain the full amount of the deficit as the practice’s books of account had not been properly written up.

The society had also discovered that Morrow had attempted to conceal the deficit by recording various sums as being loans to him when they were client funds.

A lawyer for Morrow, Sean Sexton, said his client intended to wind down his practice and had obtained various loans to cover the deficit.

The Law Society opposed an application from Morrow to remain anonymous until all proceedings were finished.

Mr Justice Keane dismissed the anonymity application, said nothing had been put before the court that would merit having the hearing being conducted in private.

Celtic starlet Eoghan O’Connell has stated the influence of Donegal manager Jim McGuinness as crucial to him making the breakthrough in to Neil Lennon’s first team plans at Parkhead.  

Cork native Eoghan O’Connell has credited Jim McGuinness in helping him make the breakthrough into the Celtic first team.

The Cork native lavished praise on McGuinness who works closely with the Celtic development squad in his role as a sports psychologist.

O’Connell made his first team debut last month against Ross County and is highly rated by the Celtic management.

O’Connell is also a cousin of Munster and Ireland hero Paul O’Connell.

O’Connell believes the role McGuinness plays in the mental make-up of the young players within the development squad helped him make the breakthrough.

O’Connell told the Irish Sun, “Jim’s been involved quite heavily with the development squad we’re working in.

“His name speaks for itself in Gaelic football terms.

“He’s great and works on psychological stuff with us, on off-field things like your focus.

“It’s about getting into your head and emphasising how important football is to you.

“You have to switch your focus on to playing games and training, that’s what he’s worked on.

“It has helped me hugely in having the confidence in making that transition from the youth team into the first team, his influence has been crucial in terms of my mental development as a player.

The Seniors and Reserves have a double round of fixtures this weekend. They start on Friday with home games v Gaoth Dobhair at 5:30pm and 7pm and then on Easter Sunday they make the short trip to Glenswilly at 1:30pm and 3pm. 

The Senior Hurlers host Aodh Ruadh in the Ulster Táin League Div. 3 on Easter Monday with a 4pm throw-in.

The Junior footballers begin their league campaign this Saturday evening (19th) with a home game v Ardara at 7pm. Best of luck to Micheál and john and the players.

The Senior Ladies league begins on Sunday week, April 27th and their opening game is away to Milford.

The Minor boys footballers await the losers of the Gaels / N. Colmcille play-off in their Northern League q-final which is due to take place on Easter Monday, time tbc.

Minor Hurlers had their first loss in the League away to Buncrana last Thursday. The U14 hurlers did the club proud in reaching the final of the Donegal Féile. They lost out in the final to Buncrana but they will have the opportunity to take on the same opposition this Thursday in the League in O’Donnell Park.

The U12 Camogie team had a good win in the League over the Four Masters on Sunday at home which saw great display of team work by the girls which should benefit them in the near future.

U14, U16 and Minor Hurling training continues every Tuesday at 5pm.

Details of the U14 Northern league q-finals will be available in the next couple of days, keep an eye on social media for details.

The U14 girl’s footballers game v the Gaels on Tuesday was cancelled after the Gaels were unable to field a team. Training continues on Thursdays at 4:50pm. Game away to Glenswilly is next Tuesday (5.30pm throw-in). All players to be in Glenswilly at 4.50pm.

The Sunday Morning Football Academy is up and running once again and takes place at 11am each week for ages 4 to 10. New members welcome from the entire Letterkenny area.

The Hurling & Camogie Academy is on a two week break and will return at 6:30pm on Friday, April 25th.

The Minor Board are meeting this Wednesday (16th) at 7:30pm in the Clubhouse. All managers are asked to attend.

Our new App is available to download for iPhones and from the Google and Amazon stores and costs just €0.99c.

This week’s Lotto results. Winning numbers were 4,10,17,23. There were 6 match 3 winners each getting €15. Ciara McKeon 8 Glendale Drive; Kieron Price 10 Binnion Ave (both Adrian); Theresa Martin, Thorn Road; Eugene Duffy, Killyclug; Shane O Connor, Castlebane and Noel Keaveny, Drumany (all card).

Cllr Marie Therese Gallagher

Speaking this evening after it was confirmed by officials at An Post that there is a potential threat of closure of the post office at Lettermacaward, local Councillor, Marie Therese Gallagher said the threatened closure was another in a plethora of cuts in critical services faced by the rural parish over the past number of years.

Cllr Gallagher said: “It has been confirmed today after enquiries by my party colleague, Deputy Pearse Doherty that ‘An Post is considering the future service provision needs at Lettermacaward which could include the closure of the office” following the retirement of the local postmaster who has served the community very well in his position.

“In my view, it is not acceptable that the closure of such a service, which represents a further attack on this rural community, could take place with minimal consultation with the local stakeholders who have already witnessed severe cuts to a number of services in recent years.

“For example, in the past number of years, the closure of a number of post offices including those located in Doochary and Fintown.

“While there will be a facility available for interested parties to make a submission to An Post prior to any decision being made, I am calling on An Post to ensure a full public consultation and to take into account the views of people in the area prior to making any decision.

“I am encouraging local people, particularly those who live in areas that have already had their post office removed, to make use of this facility and submit their views to An Post before the deadline of 9th May.”

SHAY Given’s nightmare time at Aston Villa is over – after he was appointed as an assistant to manager Paul Lambert last night.

The 37-year-old Donegal man and Gordon Cowans have both been promoted to ‘temporary assistants’ after the club suspended assistant manager Ian Culverhouse and head of football operations Gary Karsa

Given, who has not made an appearance for Villa since January 2013, was sent out on loan to Middlesbrough on November 28 but returned to Villa Park at the end of February.

“As players, it’s important that each and every one of us take responsibility right now and I’m delighted to play my part in helping the manager and the team go and try to win on Saturday,” said Given in a statement on the Midlands club’s website.

Villa are currently lie four points above the relegation zone with five games remaining.

“I’m delighted to have Gordon and Shay to assist me in preparing the team for Saturday which is what the whole group is focussed on,” said Lambert.

Otway Golf Notes

This Saturday members will compete in the annual Easter Hamper competition, hopefully in the fine spring weather we’ve been having all week. 

Names of all members intending to participate should be in the clubhouse before 10.45 am for an 11 am tee off.

Last Sunday members enjoyed a club scramble in tough testing conditions, resulting in a low winning score of two under par.

The team who battled to keep the bogies off the card and claim a deserved victory was Dan Canning, Shaun Duffy and Patrick Lynch, while all other teams fell victim to strong windy conditions, and Otway’s ‘bite’, despite the odd ‘lucky’ chip in here and there!

This is the stunning snap which captured the Blood Moon moonlight from Knockamany Bends, Inishowen which was taken by local photographer Adam Rory Porter. 

Rory said, “On the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Five Fingers Strand at Lagg we stood shivering in the sub-zero wind and moonlight.

“The unmovable headlands of the Isle of Doagh, Binnion, Dunaff and Fanad sleep peacefully.

“Ballyliffin, Glashedy Island and a single point of light from Tory are in view.

“It was the night of the blood moon and it was 3am.

“It’s an odd time of the night.

“Utterly utterly serene and yet the powerful North Atlantic waves were speeding into the mouth of Trawbreaga Bay at full force.

“When the moonlight is like daylight, except cooler and little communities are tucked up in their beds you feel like the last person on earth.

A lovely last sight before bed.”

Spring is in the air and The Courtyard Shopping Centre are celebrating the new season and Easter with the arrival of ‘The Easter Bunny’ who will be in his grotto from 1-5pm daily (except Good Friday and Easter Sunday)

Children have the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and have their photograph taken by a professional photographer in a vibrant Easter setting, receive a gift, all for only €9.

The shops are full of spring fashion and sportswear for all age groups, stylish footwear, spring homeware, gardening, beautiful easter gifts, traditional basket hampers, chocolates, confectionery,truffles, bunnies, cards and eggs galore!

Have a coffee or lunch while shopping or browsing.

Pick up your groceries, fruit & veg etc at Happy Days to make that perfect Sunday Dinner.

Decorate your house with Easter decorations available in many shops in the centre with balloons,banners, candles, chicks, etc, and there are many craft ideas to get the children decorating too!

Get the garden back into shape with a large range of garden accessories, plants, pots, outdoor lights, figurines, garden tools and a selection of fruit, veg, and flower plants and seeds.

One hour free car parking daily and free parking on Sundays.

Have a cracking Easter and enjoy the ‘eggtraordinary’ Easter displays at the Courtyard Shopping Centre.

Open Bank Holiday Monday 1 pm – 6 pm.

Independent Community Candidate in Letterkenny/Milford, Peter Cutliffe has hit out at the current FG/Labour government government for “going to ground” on the forthcoming water charges. 

Peter Cutliffe has criticised the Governement for ‘going to ground’ on impending water charges.

Cutliffe told Donegal Daily, “Recent reports suggest an average water-bill for a house will be over €300 per year next year ,with a standing -charge in each house of €100.

“People should be asking their FG/Labour representatives and canvassers what is their position in relation to water-charges.

“I understand that a large percentage of the Property-Tax people are being forced to pay for “local services” that has been pumped into the setting up of Irish Water and more “jobs for the boys, added Cutliffe.

“These charges coupled with the ridiculous fees being proposed by FG Minister for Health, James Reilly for Universal Health Insurance in the region of €1,000 per person will simply drive people over the edge, concluded Cutliffe.

The winner of our competition to see 80′s Pop superstars ‘Hue and Cry’ live at the An Grianan is Kathleen Scanlon.  

Hue and Cry

Congratulations Kathleen, you can collect your tickets from the box office in the An Grianan before the gig.

This year Bundoran boxing club will have two boxers in the National Stadium Dublin competing in the All Ireland Championships after a good weekend of boxing in Newtownstewart at the the Ulster championships where Bundoran took home 2 Ulster titles.

The two boxers now that progress too the All Ireland Championships are Shane Gillespie (BOY2) who is defending his National title from last year and Martin Sweeney (BOY1) who is in his first year of competing and has got the talent to go all the way and Box his way to glory.

Last Sunday Bundoran’s Shane Gillespie over came Ethan Mc Guckin (COOKSTOWN ABC) in a split descion 2-1 to become the Ulster Boy2 Champion at 57KG in a very entertaining fight.

Martin Sweeney also had a good day on Sunday where he became the first Bundoran man of the day to become the Ulster Boy1 champion at 63KG.

Both boxers now move on too Dublin in the National Championships next week to compete at National Level in the All Ireland stages.

The house in Convoy which goes under the hammer for just €15,000 next month.

It is possibly Donegal’s cheapest house and it goes under the hammer at just €15,000 next month.

The four bedroom house, measuring a total of 1,770sq ft, is located at Magheracorran in Convoy.

The house will be auctioned at the All Sop auction at Dublin’s RDS on May 2nd next.

The four bedroom house will be open for viewing this weekend before bidders decide if it is worth their while traveling to Dublin and putting in a bid.

The property can be seen on Saturday 19th April and Saturday 26th April between 10:00am – 11:00am and no appointment is needed.

There is just one other Donegal property up for auction on the day among more than 240 lots advertised.

This is a parcel of land measuring 41.5 acres at Sockar, Kilmacrennan which has a reserve price of €145,000.

FORENSIC experts believe the remains of a man found in Bundoran had been in the water for some time.

The remains were badly decomposed and Gardaí are carrying out a major investigation to help to identify him.

The beach where the man was found, close to a housing estate, is rocky and rarely used by the public.

Local Sinn Fein Councillor Mick McMahon said the community was in shock at the discovery.

“It’s very sad,” said Cllr McMahon.

“Someone has lost their life, possibly at sea, and the remains have landed on our shores.

“It appears that no-one has been reported missing in the area so this person may not be from this area.”

A post mortem examination is taking place today at Sligo General Hospital.

UNION bosses say they’re fighting to get redundancy payments for 80 staff when Lough Swilly bus company closes this Friday.

The company – operating buses since the 1920s and trains for decades before that – has gone bust.

Drivers and mechanics will lose their jobs on Good Friday.

Derry-based Unite Regional Officer Philip Oakes indicated that the union is working to ensure that the company’s 80 employees receive redundancy payments.

“The announcement that Lough Swilly Bus Company is to be wound up comes as a shock to workers who were told that the company would continue to operate for another month. The move will result in 80 drivers and mechanics losing their jobs. Unite has called a meeting today to inform workers of the actions we are taking,” he said.

“Unite solicitors have met with the liquidators and attended the creditors’ meetings on behalf of the employees.

“Given reports that the company has substantial debts, there are concerns for employee redundancy payments and it is likely that we will have to provide a submission to the Department for Works and Pensions to secure entitlements. Unite will do all in its power to ensure that workers receive redundancy payments and outstanding entitlements.

“The Lough Swilly Bus Company has played a vital role in the local economy, including the provision of local school runs under contract to the Department of Education. We are hopeful that another operator might be found to take on these and other commercial runs so that at least some of the jobs can be saved and a vital community service maintained.

“We are calling on political representatives to take action to encourage other operators to step in and to safeguard jobs and secure the vital public service performed by this company in the region”, Philip Oakes concluded.