He’s known to many as Mr Relay for Life.

For so long Robert O’Connor was one of the driving forces behind the cancer research fundraiser which has been a huge success in Donegal for so many years.

Robert received some recognition for his work this week when members of the Letterkenny / Milford Municipal District conferred a Civic Honour on Robert at a reception held at the Public Services Centre in Letterkenny.

The award is in recognition of Robert’s outstanding tenure as Chairman of Relay for Life, Donegal.

Robert is one of the original members of the Relay for Life committee and has raised hundreds of thousands of Euros in Donegal for the charity.

His dedication to the survivors, carers and all those who have passed away from cancer has been an inspiration to the entire community.

Cllr Kevin Bradley, Mayor congratulated Robert on his service and acknowledged the positive impact that Roberts work has had in the community.

Cllr Bradley commended Robert’s wife Hazel and said that she should be very proud of her husband.

Outgoing Relay for Life chairperson Robert O’Connor pictured with family and friends when he was bestowed with a civic reception from Mayor Cllr Kevin Bradley in recognition of his achievements. Included in photo are Liam Ward (Director of Services) and Seamus Canning (Area Manager Housing and Corporate Services) and Relay for Life committee members. (North West Newspix)

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It looks set to be a sunny start to the weekend.

Met Éireann’s latest forecasts for Ulster show that while today will start out cloudy, things are expected to stay dry.

Throughout this afternoon conditions are also expected to get sunnier, with temperatures between 16 and 20 degrees celsius.

Things are expected to stay mostly clear tonight as well, with only a few patches of mist about. Temperatures dipping to between 7 and 10 degrees overnight tonight.

The post Sunny start to the weekend expected – Met Éireann appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A new heritage plan for County Donegal is set to be launched in the coming weeks.

The new County Donegal Heritage Plan will be officially launched in Lough Eske Castle on Tuesday, May 28 at 2 pm.

The launch will be performed by Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of The Heritage Council, in the presence of the Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr Martin Harley and the Chairperson of the County Donegal Heritage Forum Cllr. Barry Sweeny. Light refreshments will be served from 1:15 pm. The event is open to the public but places are limited. To book your place, please contact the County Donegal Heritage Office on (074) 916 3824 or by e-mail at mairenifh@donegalcoco.ie by Monday, May 27.

The County Donegal Heritage Plan (2023-2030) is a strategic action plan for the identification, conservation, management, promotion and interpretation of heritage prepared by Donegal County Council and the County Donegal Heritage Forum in partnership with The Heritage Council. The new plan addresses aspects of our built and architectural heritage (such as historic buildings, landscapes, parks and gardens shaped by human design), our archaeology (such as monuments, ancient objects and shipwrecks), our natural heritage and biodiversity (such as wildlife, habitats, flora, fauna and geology) and our cultural inheritance (such as skills, folklore, traditions and archives).

“The aim of the new County Donegal Heritage Plan is to work together to manage, conserve, promote and celebrate our heritage responsibly, foster appreciation and communicate the values of our rich heritage to present and future generations” explained Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer.

“The plan sets out five strategic goals and 45 strategic objectives to improve resources for heritage services, engage and support communities in the management of our heritage, raise awareness and appreciation of our heritage, provide advice and promote best heritage practice and commission new research. The new County Heritage Plan will direct heritage priorities, resources and funding for built, archaeological, natural and cultural heritage in the county over the next six years.”

“The County Donegal Heritage Forum is a committee of Donegal County Council that provides advice on the preparation and implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan. Its membership is drawn from a variety of sectors including the heritage organisations/groups, local government, local development, state agencies, educational institutions, landowner/farming representatives, and the community and voluntary sector. Every year, the County Donegal Heritage Forum agrees a work programme of specific actions that address the strategic goals and objectives in the County Heritage Plan. Part-funding for the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan is provided by Donegal County Council, The Heritage Council and other heritage stakeholders.”

At the launch, a preview of a new website on Brian Friel’s Ballybeg will be highlighted. Brian Friel (1929-2015) was the best-known Irish playwright of his generation and an accomplished short-story writer who had a strong affection for County Donegal. The website was commissioned by Donegal County Council as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan and was developed by Dr. Harriet Purkis and Mitchell Davies. The website outlines Brian Friel’s literary associations with County Donegal and his beloved Glenties; establishes a database of real and imagined places in his work; and identifies characters, places and settings portrayed in his work and their real-life associations. Other actions that will be progressed this year as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan are the preparation of an exhibition on Donegal people who worked in Scotland between 1940 and 1990 (that will be launched in spring 2025); the implementation of the sixth year of the award-winning Thatch Repair Grant Scheme; the coordination of National Heritage Week in County Donegal and the production of the County Donegal Heritage Week Event Guide.

Copies of the new County Donegal Heritage Plan will be available at the launch and the new plan will be available on-line on the County Donegal Heritage Office website www.donegalcoco.ie/heritage following the launch.

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An award-winning Donegal sheep and cattle farm was celebrated recently by the Irish Grasslands Association.

The IGA hosted their yearly on-farm sheep walk event at the Stevenson farm, run by mother and son Margaret and Jack Stevenson, in the east of the county.

Located between Castlefinn and Killygordon, in 2023 the Stevensons’ farm won the Suckler to Weanling category in the
National Livestock Show Sustainable Farmer Awards.

They were selected to host the annual sheep walk due to their constistently high quality and quantity of sheep output, with Margaret and Jack also given a special plaque celebrating their acheivements.

All photos from the event below are credited to Clive Wasson Photography.

Bryan Hynes, Irish Grassland Association President, making a presentation to Margaret Stevenson, and James Stevenson with Niamh Bambrick, Mullinahone Co-Op at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Farmers at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

A full field at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

John McVeigh, Ronald Wallace and Lynn Kee at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk hosts Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

David Doherty, Charlie Doherty and Patrick Strain from Inisowen at teh Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Bryan Hynes, Irish Grassland Association President, making a presentation to Margaret Stevenson, and James Stevenson with Niamh Bambrick, Mullinahone Co-Op at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Teh crowd taking in the view at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Cahrlie Gallahgher, Margaret Traynor, Damien Galalgher and Tom Coll at the Irish Grassland Association farm walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

The tea ladies at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Gerard Duffy and Conor McCann Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Some of the crowd at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Farmers at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

Bryan Hynes speaking at the Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

John Cannon, Eoin Galagher and Christy Watson Irish Grassland Association Sheep Farm Walk on the farm of Margaret Stevenson and Jack Stevenson, Co. Donegal. Photo Clive Wasson

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Gardaí from the Donegal Division have paid tribute to their late colleague, Sgt Paul Reid, on the 29th anniversary of his passing.

The Letterkenny-based Garda passed away on this day, May 18th, 29 years ago in Sarajevo.

Donegal Gardaí marked the anniversary of Sgt Reid’s passing on social media today.

He was part of a patrol carrying out peace monitoring duties at Sarajevo Airport in Bosnia, when the vehicle he and his colleague Garda Phillip Carr were travelling in was hit by a sniper bullet.

The vehicle subsequently lost control and crashed, killing Sgt Reid.

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This year’s first batch of cruise passengers arrived in the North West this week, as the busy tourist season is getting underway in the region.

Visitors landed in the area at the Foyle Port for the first time in 2024 this week, firstly with the arrival of the Seabourn Ovation vessel on Wednesday.

As part of their 21-day journey from Lisbon to Hamburg, visitors also made a stop in Greencastle on Thursday – getting a chance to explore the local area.

Representatives from Foyle Port, Failte Ireland, Go Visit Inishowen and Visit Derry went onboard to greet Captain Kim Tanner and crew and exchange plaques and gifts.

Go Visit Inishowen provided a 1:6 scale replica of the Cross Slab of St Mura, from St Mura’s graveyard in Fahan – crafted by Buncrana sculptor John McCarron.

This week also saw a visit from Spirit of Adventure, which made its maiden call to the North West this week also, and tomorrow sees the eco-friendly World Explorer also docked in the area.

Foyle Port’s Harbour Master and Operations Director Bill McCann said, “It’s a pleasure to welcome Seabourn Ovation to Lough Foyle once again following her maiden visit last May. We are seeing return calls from 92% of the cruise lines this year – we believe this speaks volumes to the positive experience received on previous visits and is a real testament to the destination.”

Captain McCann added, “2023 was a record year for the port as we welcomed over 16,000 guests and crew with an estimated direct spend of over €1 million into the local economy benefiting local restaurants, shops, tourism providers, entertainment and transport companies. We eagerly anticipate further growth allowing for more international tourists to experience first-hand what a beautiful part of the world this is.”

“Cruise guests have the opportunity to explore areas of outstanding natural beauty and a wealth of incredible tourism products across four counties: Derry-Londonderry, Donegal, Antrim and Tyrone. With a focus on sustainable tourism, bespoke excursions transport guests to Glenshane Country Farm, Mussenden Temple and Downhill, the Giant’s Causeway, Seamus Heaney HomePlace, the historic Walls of Derry-Londonderry, Glenveagh National Park and the Inishowen Peninsula.”

Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland said, “We are delighted to work alongside Foyle Port in bringing this unique part of our island to life through our tours. It is always very refreshing to work with a region who actively welcome cruise ships and this port is one of them. The variety of tours we offer from this region is second to none and the year on year feedback is phenomenal. We are looking forward to another busy 2024 season and also look forward to working alongside all at Foyle Port in the future to further promote and showcase this region and all it has to offer.”

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Here are all of the results and match reports from this week’s Donegal Women’s League football action.

Monday 13th May 2024 18:30
Under 12
Group 1
Illistrin 1 – 1 Lagan Harps
It was a very even game with both teams creating a number of chances in an end to end game. Goalscorer for Illistrin was Makenna Doherty and Emily McMahon scored for Lagan.

Ballyraine Harps 3 – 0 Bonagee United
Ballyraine U12 girls made it three wins in a row in the league with a solid victory against a battling Bonagee side at Orchard Grove on Monday evening. After a very evenly matched opening 15 minutes the home side got the breakthrough when Maria Wenelska latched onto a throw in from Cleo Sweeney to cut in from the left wing and beat the keeper at her near post. Shortly after the restart Wenelska scored her second after a fine through ball from Hanna Carty. Bonagee never gave up chasing the game, but the Ballyraine rearguard, marshalled by Cora Lannon has been very miserly of late. Hanna Carty eventually put matters beyond doubt with 10 minutes remaining delivering a fine finish after a clever through ball from Millie Toland.

Group 2
Letterbarrow Celtic Youths – Cappry Rovers A (Cappry Win)

Donegal Town 2 – 1 Drumbar United A

Group 3
Kildrum Tigers 1 – Drumkeen United
It was a big night for the Kildrum girls as it was their first competitive game in the Donegal Women’s League, and a great game it was, against an equally matched Drumkeen side.  Drumkeen got off to a flying start and took the lead after 2 mins with a goal from Dumkeen’s Aimee Mc Ginty. Kildrum were straight on the attack with Evie Gallagher crossing a great ball to Molly Toland who had a fast run with the ball and found the back of the net after just 6 mins bringing the game level at 1–1. Both teams worked hard with lots of goal opportunities in the first half with Kildrum dominating the final few minutes but no one could get the break to take the lead. Score at half time 1-1. Drumkeen came out strong in the second half and put Kildrum’s defence under pressure. Kildrums Abaigh Bovaird and Emily Toland were outstanding in Kildrum’s defence and did not let Drumkeen get the breakthrough they wanted. On the 49th minute Kildrum came close to taking the lead when Molly Toland found a path through Dumkeen’s defence and got a shot away only to be denied by the post. Both defences were solid throughout the game and backed up by great goalkeeping from Kildrum’s Alana Hannigan and Drumkeen’s Erin Doherty. Keeping the final score at 1-1. A very entertaining game by two well matched teams who battled from start to finish. Stand out player was Abaigh Bovaird in Kildrum’s defence. Well done to all the girls and congratulations to Kildrum on their first ever competitive game.

Raphoe Town 0 – 1 Convoy Arsenal
A competitive game played in great spirits as both teams battled hard in the wet conditions. There was nothing to separate the teams at half time with both teams trying to find the breakthrough but it was defences on top. Convoy started the 2nd half much brighter with Raphoe Goalkeeper Emily Craig producing 2 topclass saves to keep the game level. Midway through the second half Rihea Park finally made the breakthrough. After a great solo run she finished well into the net. Raphoe pushed for the equaliser in the final minutes but the Convoy defence stood firm. Thanks to Gavin Doherty for refereeing.

Group 4
Keadue Rovers 5-0 Dunfanaghy Youths
Dunfanaghy were the visitors to Keadue on a very wet evening and despite the conditions, both teams served up a treat for the large crowd in attendance. Keadue set the early tempo and put the visitors defence under pressure from the off and on 4 minutes took the lead when Ayva Boyle played a superb through ball to Ciara Gallagher and she found the net with an excellent finish. Keadue kept hunting for a 2nd goal but Dunfanaghy had good numbers in defence and with their keeper in fine form they were keeping Keadue out. On 14 mins however Keadue went 2 ahead when after a series of corners, a corner went to Ayva Boyle at the edge of the box and she scored a stunning volley past the keeper. Keadue stayed well on top for the rest of the 1st half but in the last few minutes Dunfanaghy had 2 great chances that were brilliantly saved by Robyn Duffy in the Keadue goals. Into the 2nd half and the rain was incessant but both teams kept battling away. Keadue struck again on 37 mins when Ciara Gallagher lobbed the keeper with a fine finish. It was harsh on Dunfanaghy but they kept plugging away and forced a few corners of their own and again Duffy in goals had to make 2 more saves. On 45mins Keadue went 4 ahead when following a brilliant move Shauna McGovern struck home from a tight angle. On 55 mins Lena O Donnell raced clear and expertly beat the keeper to make it 5-0. Both teams made numerous subs in the 2nd half but the intensity and quality never dropped despite the atrocious weather and referee Sean O Donnell kept the game flowing.

Gweedore United A 4 – 1 Gweedore Celtic
In atrocious conditions for football at the psg pitch, the home team took the lead after 10 minutes after a good move down the wing with Lucy Doohan putting Erin Ferry, Ferry pulled it back for Àine Mangan who hit a screamer from 20 yards into the top corner. Lucy Doohan added a second after a good save from the keeper but Lucy reacted quickly to tap in the goal. Celtic were awarded a Free after a pass back and they hit the crossbar from 8 yards after that Lucy added number 3. Celtic was awarded a penalty when the defender handballed in the box, Nell Green made no mistake for the spot to make it 3-1. Celtic was pushing hard for a goal but utd caught them on the break to make the game safe with Lucy Doohan completing her hat-trick to make it 4-1. Poor conditions but a great performance from both teams.

Group 5
Mulroy Academy 3 – 1 Glenree
The wet conditions didn’t dampen spirits in Trialough this evening where Mulroy & Glenree played out a very entertaining game. Mulroys Alice Gibbons continued her remarkable goalscoring start to the season scoring all three goals to record her hattrick. It was two very good team performances with Gibbons’ clinical finishing ultimately proving the difference between the teams.

Milford United – Kilmacrennan Celtic (Kilmacrennan win)
Milford started brighter but Kilmacrennan soon took foothold of the game when they took the lead halfway through the first half. They stormed into a 5 nil lead by half time. Milford goalkeeper came off at half time with an injury and it wasn’t long before Kilmacreanan took advantage and got more goals in the second half. Milford kept trying until the end and never gave up missing a host of chances. They failed to score and the match finished with a win to Kilmacrennan.

Group 6
Cappry Rovers B 0 – 0 Ballyraine Celtic
In very wet conditions Cappry B team welcomed Ballyraine Celtic to the Finn Valley Centre. A very well matched game with the 3 goalies doing an excellent job. Both teams had plenty of chances but it was not to be for either side. Some excellent performances by all girls in both teams and ended in a 0 – 0 draw.

Drumbar United B – Gweedore United B (Drumbar Win)

Letterkenny Rovers – Finn Valley (Finn Valley win)
Finn Valley were quick of the mark scoring five goals in the first half through Hannah Brown. Emily McMenamin and a hattrick by Saoirse McMenamin. Chloe Strain pulled one back for Rovers before Chloe Kee, Niamh Long and Hannah Brown scored for Valley in the second half.

Friendlies
Swilly Rovers 2 – 5 Letterkenny Rovers
Swilly Rovers FC U12 Girls had a nice run out against Letterkenny Rovers FC U12 last night at Swilly Park. Letterkenny started quick with 3 quick goals from C McBrearty and Swilly had left a little work for themselves to do but they got stuck in and started to play some nice football. Ella Coyle again got on the scoresheet for Swilly with a well taken goal, soon after having one ruled out for offside. Into halftime with plenty of changes and Letterkenny grabbed another through S. Graham. Not to be outdone though Swilly came back into the game and Ella grabbed another. McBrearty soon grabbed another though to put the fame out of reach after a number of Swilly efforts didn’t quite make it past the posts. Thanks to Matthew Hull for officiating a good friendly game.

Under 14
Glenree 0 – 5 Mulroy Academy
On Monday evening it was the U14’s ladies turn to welcome their Mulroy Bay neighbours. It was an evenly contested game throughout the opening stages of the first half with Glenree coming close on opening the scoring on 15mins when Aoibhe McGettigan got herself into a great position but her effort just missed the target. Mulroy then started to ask too many questions off the home team and they succumbed to the pressure when Aisling Duffy latched onto a well timed pass. The Glenree girls panicked a little and a defensive miscommunication resulted in Mulroy doubling their tally through Ainé Doherty. Another goal on the stroke of halftime from Amy McAteer when she took her chance well from outside the box and chipped the keeper. A well taken goal. The second half began again with end to end play and Aimee Bassett controlled the right wing and most of Glenree’s play was coming from those channels. Emily B played well in defence and the tireless running of our front two of Coyle & Duffy and then McCloskey & O’Doherty gave us some positives to be happy but it wasn’t to be the girls’ day. A much-improved Glenree performance and it’s Illistrn’s turn to visit Sheephaven Bay on Friday. Player of the match was Aimee Bassett.

Wednesday 15th May 2024 18:30
Under 16
Group 1
Raphoe Town 3 – 0 Letterkenny Rovers
Erin O Donnell, Cassie Tinney and Molly McGroarty all on the scoresheet as the U16 girls secure 3 nil win over Letterkenny Rovers.

Ballyraine – Lagan Harps (Ballyraine win)
There were goals galore at Orchard Grove including 5 in the first 15 minutes. Both sides fielded a lot of energetic under 14 players and the game was end to end from start to finish. Claragh Gallagher put Lagan in the lead after 5 minutes then Ballyraine equalised through Clodagh Patton. Gallagher put Lagan back in the lead shortly after before Patton equalised for the second time. Ballyraine scored through Nicole Lynch and Maria McKinney and took a healthy lead into the second half. Both sides made a lot of changes throughout the match with all of the girls getting game time. In the second half Ballyraine scored again with two from Eedaoin Kennedy, one from Grace McGlynn and one from Lucy Fabisiak. Thanks to referee Michael Dunnion.

Group 2
Finn Valley 2 – 2 Drumbar United
On a lovely evening Finn Valley WFC hosted Drumbar Utd. After a very even first half, both teams created chances and the score line read 0-0 at the break. Straight after kickoff for the second half Drumbar played the ball out wide and Michaela Hannafin scored a great goal from the edge of the box into the far corner of the net. Finn Valley kept battling but the Drumbar defence held firm. Then Sarah Colhoun broke through the Finn Valley defence and was taken down inside the box and she stepped up and scored the resulting penalty to make it 2-0. Finn Valley made it 2-1 when Rachel Harron scored from a corner with a mix up in the Drumbar defence. And in the dying minutes Finn Valleys Mia McMullan latched onto a through ball and broke through the tough Drumbar defence and put the ball past the keeper into the net to make it 2-2. Great team performances from both teams. Referee Seamus McGrory

Group 3
Milford United – Illistrin (Illistrin win)

Mulroy Academy 1 – 0 Gweedore United
On an evening of unpredictable weather, the outcome of the u16 girls battle with Gweedore United remained uncertain until the final whistle. The ever-changing conditions mirrored the back-and-forth battle on the field, keeping both teams and supporters on edge until the very end. The first half ended scoreless with both teams having their chances only for some excellent goal keeping from both sides with both keepers alert and quick off their lines commanding their areas. Mary-Bridget pulled off a great save at a vital time in the game as Gweedore were starting to take control of the game. It took until the 35th minute in the second half to break the deadlock when Meabh Sweeney played an inch perfect pass for Úna Sweeney to latch onto and her powerful strike took the ball over the head of the advancing Gweedore keeper who will be disappointed as she did get her hands to it but could only watch as the ball crossed the line. Mulroy’s defence worked hard all evening to keep Gweedore out with Kaycie, Erin Logue, Ava, Aideen-Marie and Eabha when introduced all in top form. Aishling Duffy had another great game in midfield cutting out a lot of Gweedore plays. Amy, Ellie, Erin Carlin and Annalee worked hard creating space and had some lung busting runs to assist Úna up top. Much relief for the Mulroy coach Syria as the girls lined up to shake hands at the end, that no injuries had been picked up, as seven of these girls join forces with their Donegal Women’s League teammates on Sunday in Kilkenny for their InterLeague All Ireland Final.

Friday 17th May 2024 18:30
Under 14
Group 1
Letterkenny Rovers – Donegal Town B (Letterkenny Rovers Win)
Aisling McGinley and Faye Casburn opened the scoring for Rovers, Isla McShane responded and pressured the defender pull one back for Donegal Town. Rovers got another two goals before half time through Amy Moore and Laila Devenney.
Aoibhinn McLaughlin and Gaye Casburn scored for Rovers in the second half.

Lagan Harps 1 – 2 Raphoe Town
Raphoe came out on top after a breathtaking end to the game, which was reversed to Raphoe. Thd first half was scrappy with few chances. Raphoe took the lead on 23 minutes when Cara O’Connell broke down the right and drive a powerful shot past Ciara Cullen. Lagan’s only real effort was a good effort from distance from Sinead McLoughlin but Layla Kelly held on to it well. Raphoe were on top at the start of the second half with Skyler Murtagh and Brooke Johnston on top in midfield. Lily Rose Doherty and Cara O’Connell were a constant threat. Cara O’Connell then put Raphoe 2-0 up with another good finish on 41 minutes. With nothing to lose, Lagan then threw the kitchen sink at it. Ella Sharkey replaced Ciara Cullen in midfield and Ciara added a new dimension to the Lagan attack. Lagan got a goal back on 41 minutes when Emily Mc Mahon scored with a great angled effort. From then to the end both teams attacked flat out as the game exploded to life. Ciara got on the end of a couple of great crosses from Clodagh Kavanagh but was denied by Lylah Kelly. Lylah then pulled off a brilliant save to push over an effort from Mikaela Breen. Raphoe then broke clear twice but couldn’t find the target. Jodie Rodgers then looked certain to score for Lagan but was denied by another great save. The final whistle brought a great game to an end. Referee John Duffy deserved a lot of credit for letting the game flow.

Bonagee United 2 – 1 Ballyraine
It was a local derby at Dry Arch Park with Bonagee hosting Ballyraine. Both teams started strong with a corner swung in by Grace McGlynn which was cleared off the line by Ruby Sheridan. Bonagee grew into the game with chances from Isla Larkin and Ellen Temple saved by the Ballyraine shot stopper Aine McDaid who was excellent throughout the evening along with her defence particularly Aoife Kenna. Bonagee’s pressure paid off on the twenty fifth minute mark when Tara McDaid’s shot beat the keeper. After halftime Ballyrine came flying out of the gates continuing to press the Bonagee defence and got their reward when Grace McGlynn pulled the ball back to Eadaoin Kennedy who made no mistake in front of goal. Both teams were determined to find a winner with neither team settling for a draw. Ballyraine came close when a long ball into the box was superbly tipped away by the Bonagee keeper Sarah Peoples. Bonagee continued to be put under pressure by the Ballyarine attack led by Eadaoin Kennedy and Grace McGlynn but the defence of Shannon Sibbald, Kayla Watson, Lillygrace Harvey and Ruby Sheridan stood strong. The game looked like it was heading for a draw but Tara McDaid got on the end of an Ava Harkin cross and found the bottom corner in the last minute of normal time. Ballyraine still didn’t lay down and pressed in added time but the midfield duo of Isla Larkin and Kate Gillespie ensured that Bonagee seen out the game. A great game was put on show and a special thanks to the man in the middle referee Marty McGarrigle who let the game flow excellently.

Group 2
Finn Valley 5 – 0 Convoy Arsenal
On a great evening for football, Finn Valley WFC faced Convoy Arsenal in a local derby. Finn Valley started the better and a great strike from Kyra Gavigan put them one up in the first 10mins. Sarah Campbell with her 1st of the night made it 2 after great work on the wing from Ella Oduku. Convoy were always dangerous on the break and battled very hard throughout. Ella Oduku got Valley’s 3rd with a good finish after a strong run. Campbell got the 4th and 5th of the night and the match ball to go with it for her hat-trick! Credit to the Convoy girls for some lovely football and a special mention to their keeper who made a fantastic double save in the 1st half. Thanks to George Clinton for refereeing a very sporting game.

Drumbar United 1 – 4 St Catherines

Donegal Town A 1 – 2 Cappry Rovers
Well done to both teams on a great game of football on a very warm evening.
Donegal Town had a 1 nil lead at half time with a good finish from Roisin Hegarty. Cappry had a few chances on goal in the first half with some fine saves from Eve. Cappry scored twice in the second half to win the game, their first goal a good finish from Alison and their 2nd goal a brilliant free kick from Megan Doherty. Excellent displays of football from both teams.

Group 3
Gweedore Celtic 3 – 1 Keadue Rovers

Glenea United – Dunfanaghy Youths (Glenea win)
Both teams started well this evening. The break came on the tenth minute when Shauna Doohan finished well after great work from Jenny. Dunfanaghy kept their shape well as Glenea were unable to break them until the 25th minute when Katie Coyle and Shauna Doohan worked well down the right hand side to find Jenny in the box who found the back of the net. 5 minutes later, Shauna found space to drive into and crossed the ball to Jenny who again finished well.  Jenny was taken down in the box early in the second half and was awarded a penalty, she made no mistake to complete her hatrick. Aoife Meehan came close from outside the box but the ball went just over the bar. Sarah Coyle was awarded a penalty, the Dunfanaghy keeper pulled off an amazing save to give them a boost. It was Sarah Coyle who got the next goal for Glenea after good work from Minnie Coyle and Cáit Doogan. With 3 minutes left Jenny added another and to conclude the scoring Lucy Doohan hit the back of the net after a brilliant through ball from Cáit. Best for Glenea on the night was Shauna Doohan who was inspirational in the middle and Cáit Doogan who showed some great skill in the second half.

Group 4
Glenree – Illistrin (Illistrin Win)

Mulroy Academy 5 – 0 Milford United

Kilmacrennan Celtic – Swilly Rovers (Kilmacrennan win)
Kilmacrennan hosted neighbours Swilly Rovers on a fine evening for football. Swilly had the better of the early exchanges until Grainne Friel headed in the first of her 4 goals for Kilmac following a Cate Cameron corner. Grainne Friel followed up with a second five minutes later from close range. Kilmac lead 2-0 at half time. Swilly Rovers started the second half well but the on fire Friel stuck for her 3rd before Katelyn Fay added another for Kilmacrennan latching on to another Cate Cameron assist. Jorjamae McGroarty scored a fantastic individual goal following a mazy dribbling run. Grainne Friel finished off with the last goal, capping a great Kilmacrennan performance and move up to second in the table.

The post Donegal Women’s League – this week’s results & match reports appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A total of 91 candidates have thrown their hat in the ring for the upcoming local elections in Donegal.

Applications to run in the council elections closed at 12 noon today, with the final list of candidates set to be confirmed tomorrow afternoon by Donegal County Council after the window for candidates to withdraw has closed.

There are a total of 37 seats up for grabs across the five Municipal District Councils.

The biggest competition will be for one of the ten seats on the Letterkenny Milford Municipal District Council, with 27 total candidates in the running.

18 of those are running for the 7 seats in the Letterkenny Local Electoral Area, while 9 candidates will run for the 3 seats in the Milford LEA.

Elsewhere a total of 21 candidates are in the running for the 9 Inishowen MD seats.

There are 12 candidates running in the 5-seat Buncrana LEA, and 9 contenders for the 4 seats in the Carndonagh LEA.

Meanwhile there are 16 candidates in the running for the 6 seat Glenties MD, 15 candidates for 6 seats in the Donegal MD, and 12 candidates vying for the 6 seats in the Lifford-Stranorlar MD.

The post Over 90 candidates to contest Donegal’s local elections appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A man in his 70s has died after an early morning collision in Dublin.

The man, who was cycling, was involved in a crash with a car at around 5:25am in the city centre.

He was taken to St James’ Hospital, where he later died.

The driver of the car was also treated for what Gardaí have described as non life-threatening injuries.

The incident also marks the 76th death on the country’s roads so far this year.

The post National: Man (70s) dies after early morning collision appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal 1-07 v 2-08 Armagh

Donegal’s Minor footballers suffered defeat to Armagh this afternoon in the Ulster Championship Semi Final.

Despite home advantage in the tie, played in Ballyshannon, Armagh were able to establish an early run of points.

Donegal were 6 points down before they hit their first point of the tie in the 19th minute as Donnachadh O Baighill struck.

At the end of the first half Donegal trailed by 0-03 to 0-08, and that defecit worsened as Armagh fired home their first goal of the contest just after half-time, Jack Loughran with the strike.

James McCooe then fired home Armagh’s second goal moments later, leaving it 0-03 to 2-08 and Donegal in the lurch.

They did battle back as the game concluded, including a Colm O Dochairtaigh goal, but it wasn’t enough for Donegal’s minors as they fell at the second-to-last hurdle in Ulster.

The post Donegal Minors suffer defeat in Ulster Semi Final appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A number of mental health and wellbeing pilot programmes have been rolled out across a number of schools in Inishowen, to help children whose homes are affected by defective blocks.

St. Francis’ NS in Clonmany, Scoil Eoghain in Moville, Carndonagh Community School and Scoil Mhuire in Buncrana were chosen to host the pilot programmes.

They involved resilience training, coping mechanisms, CBT exercises and teaching young people how to deal with their big emotions. Parents were also included as part of some of the programmes for younger children.

Denise McCool, team lead with the Inishowen Development Partnership who facilitate the interagency subgroup, said the pilots came about following a survey by the IFAN [Inishowen Family Action Network] DCB [defective concrete block] subgroup.

The survey resulted showed that 72% of respondents said the DCB crisis was having a moderate to severe impact on their children.

“Parents who responded to the survey requested training on positive coping strategies, building resilience and mindfulness techniques for their children,” explained Denise.

“They stated that they would like to see the delivery of these types of programmes in the school to make it more accessible for a large cohort.”

Following this, the four programmes were delivered in collaboration with Lifeline, Carndonagh and Moville Family Resource Centre, and in consultation with the two school completion programmes.

“We were delighted to receive funding for the pilot projects from Inishowen Co-Op, who want to support and make a difference in the Inishowen community,” added Denise.

Chairman of Inishowen Co-Op John Ruddy said they were happy to be able to collaborate with the IFAN DCB Sub Group to deliver the programmes to local schools.

“From what the IDP and the schools have heard already these programmes have had a strong positive impact on the young people they were delivered to, and we were delighted to be able to support them in this training,” said John.

Similarly GM of Inishowen Co-Op Gareth Whitmore said everyone at the Co-Op is all too aware of the DCB crisis within the community and they will continue to provide support to the community in whatever way they can.

He praised the facilitators of the programme who “went above and beyond” to deliver these programmes in the schools.

“It has been heartening to see that they had such a positive impact in the schools,” added Gareth.

Denise explained that as this has been a pilot phase their job now in the IFAN DCB Sub Group is to evaluate and measure the impact before providing future recommendations and seeking out additional funding. However, one school was so impressed by the training itself that they supported further roll out of the programme themselves.

William Doherty, Principal of St. Francis’ NS, Clonmany, said the Strive programme, which was delivered by facilitator Colleen Kearney in their school, provided such encouraging results for many of the children and taught them key coping strategies that they decided to continue the programme and expanded it to other children.

“The support provided by Inishowen Co-op in conjunction with Inishowen Development Partnership and Denise McCool has been invaluable to the children of St Francis National School,” said William.

“It has been so beneficial that our Board of Management have seen fit to continue the programme into 3rd and 4th Class. In my opinion early intervention is key in supporting our young people they are our future at the end of the day.”

“At a time when children have to face so many social challenges including recovery from the fallout from Covid, to separation, loss and bereavement and to top it all off dealing with the plethora of issues that are arising from the mine field that is defective concrete blocks. Colleen Kearney has been a breath of fresh air and we are delighted that she will continue the programme at our school,” added William.

Similarly Principal of Carndonagh Community School John McGuiness said supported the call for more funding, adding that he believes programmes such as this will only become more necessary as time moves on and more teenagers’ homes are being demolished.

“This is only the tip of the iceberg,” he said.

“As more families progress in the scheme and children are forced to move to temporary accommodation the issues around anxiety and stress will really start to surface. Their safe spaces, their study spaces, their quiet areas, will be demolished and that will be really hard for young people to process.”

“There will be an even greater need for programmes such as this one in the future,” he added.

To find out more about the supports available and the work of the IFAN/DCB subgroup contact Denise/Rachel at the Inishowen Development Partnership.

The DCB Facilitator, Michelle Coyle, can be contacted through IDP at 93 62 218.

The post Mental health & wellbeing schemes rolled out for defective block kids appeared first on Donegal Daily.

One security worker had to be hospitalised after a vicious assault overnight at a site earmarked for refugee housing in County Tipperary.

Vehicles were also set on fire in the shocking incident.

Gardaí say the attack took place at 11:40pm last night, at the site in Clonmel.

It’s understood a number of individuals stormed the building site as part of the targeted assault on the housing project, which is set to host 82 temporary homes for Ukrainian refugees.

Garda investigations into the incident are ongoing.

The post National: Security at migrant housing site attacked in vicious assault appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal Gardaí have issued a warning to road users after a Letterkenny driver had their car seized for a number of infringements.

Gardaí say the car was pulled over, and the driver found to have not taxed their car in over a year, with the car also not having any insurance or NCT.

The car was subsequently seized.

The driver now also faces a court appearance in due course.

The post Car seized from Letterkenny driver with no tax, insurance or NCT appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Louth 1-20 v 4-19 Donegal

Donegal continued their unbeaten streak in the Nicky Rackard Cup this afternoon with another dominant display in the group stage.

Having already secured a spot in the Final last week, this matchup against Louth on the surface was a dead rubber – but Mickey McCann’s men still delivered a storming performance away from home.

The first half was tightly contested, but Donegal held a slight lead of two points at the interval.

The floodgates would soon open however, as Donegal struck four second-half goals – a Ruari Campbell brace, as well as strikes from Peter Kelly and Ronan McDermott securing them their fifth win in five games.

They will now travel to Croke Park on the 1st of June to try and win the Nicky Rackard Cup crown.

The post Donegal Hurlers continue unbeaten Nicky Rackard Cup run appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Glenties Councillor Michael McClafferty has called out one of his political opponents in the upcoming local elections for releasing and sharing a voice message of the Councillor.

“It has come to my attention that a voice recording of me is circulating,” Cllr McClafferty posted this afternoon.

“Last night, I received a phone call from another local candidate asking for my help, which I believed to be a genuine request. I did not realize that the purpose of the call was to make a joke or mockery out of me.”

Cllr McClafferty has not revealed the identity of which opponent called him and then recorded and released the conversation through social media channels.

“I am extremely disappointed and, to be honest, very disheartened. If candidates are trying to secure votes by making a mockery of others, it is truly a sad day.”

“I have one request: if you have received this voice recording, please delete it. My spirits are already low, and I don’t need to hear it again. It has been reported to the authorities.”

The post Glenties Councillor calls out opponent who released “joke” voice recording appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Music pulsed from Devlin Hall in Letterkenny today as talented local artists celebrated the launch of Over the West Radio.

Founded by Letterkenny singer-songwriter Maria McCormack, the online station offers a platform for emerging artists across the country.

“Our motto is ‘If You Create It, We Will Play It,'” says Maria.

The idea for an independent station blossomed in 2021, she said.

“I was fed up with so many people locally who weren’t getting their music played on radio stations.

“Instead of trying to email DJs, let’s create something for everybody,” Maria said.

Frankie McCreevy and Maria McCormack with Laura May and Tara Bridget McCreevy at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maria Mc Cormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maria heaped praise on the ‘family’ of 52 different artists from all corners of Ireland and all genres of music who have already entrusted their precious music to the playlists. Thirteen DJs make up the team behind the scenes.

The official launch this afternoon was a lively celebration of this supportive community. Over 20 acts took the stage, showcasing a flavour of the “ridiculous amount of talent” featured on the station, according to MC John Muldowney.

“There is so much unsigned amazing talent out there that is not getting any attention and now it is, which is down to Maria,” John said.

One of the youngest bands in Donegal had the honour of switching on the ‘On Air’ sign. Odyssey, which is made up of Rathmullan musicians Dylan Gallagher, Finlay Sheridan, Odhran McGinley and Tony Gallagher, also opened the showcase.

Odyssey band from Rathmullan opens the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

A special tribute was paid to the late Paul Mooney who was involved with the station from its inception. Paul’s tragic passing in a road accident in December has left a void across the local music scene and he was fondly remembered today as a wonderful musician, producer and friend.

“We had great plans for the future,” Maria said, sending love to Paul, whose jingle can now be heard every day on the station.

John Muldowney, Stephen McCollum and Franck Saucian at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Listeners can download the Over the West Radio app now to begin listening and supporting. “Start the ripple effect today and start making big waves,” Maria encourages everyone.

For more, check out: https://linktr.ee/overthewestonlineradio

See more photos here on Donegal Daily:

Frankie, Maria and family with the Wynne girls at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Mickey and Luke Duffy at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Gary Graham and Shirley Graham from Bangor FM at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Jennifer McGee, Maria McCormack and Laura May at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Father and son artists Kevin Gallagher and Kevin Gallagher at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Colette Clinton and Mary Dunne at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Shauna Scanlon and Aaron McCormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maeve Brady and Jenna McCormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Shaun Doogan and Paul Rodgers at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Andrii Kotkovets and Maria Mc Cormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Cllr Liam Doherty, Frankie Mc Creevy with baby Tara Bridget and Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

The post Picture Special: Over the West Radio says yes to new artists appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A man who tried to evade Gardai by using backroads before eventually being stopped with a can of lager in his car has been fined and banned from driving.

Gardai told Letterkenny District Court that they first came across a car on September 13th, 2022, on the Derry Road in St Johnston and made efforts to follow the vehicle.

The driver made efforts to evade them and took side roads but eventually caught up with the vehicle when it was stopped by Garda Thomas Nugent at Altaskin, St Johnston.

When they spoke to the driver Sean Douglas there was a can of lager in the driver’s drink-holder and Gardai demanded a sample of his breath which showed a positive reading.

When arrested, Douglas, aged 34, was taken to Letterkenny Garda Station to be processed.

An intoxilyser test showed a reading of 66 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

Douglas, of Legnathraw, St Johnston, was charged that he did drive a mechanically propelled vehicle while there was present in his body a quantity of alcohol such that, within 3 hours after so driving, the concentration of alcohol in his breath did exceed a concentration of 22 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

The charge is Contrary to Section 4 (4)(a) and (5) of the Road Traffic Act 2010.

His solicitor, Mr Frank Dorrian, said his client how resides in Australia but he had permission to plead to the charge on his behalf.

He said his client was a 34-year-old man who had no previous convictions and wanted to put the case behind him.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham fined Douglas €200, allowed him six months to pay the fine and banned him from driving for two years.

The post Drunk driver with lager can in car cup holder is fined and banned appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Milling since 1865 Smyths Daleside are the leading manufacturer of animal feed in the Northwest of Ireland.

For over 155 years, we have been making the highest quality feeds with the aim of exceeding our customers’ expectations. We now invite applications for the following permanent position at our Ballindrait mill.

Accounts Administrator
Job Ref No: SD/AA/05/24

Reporting to the Financial Controller the Accounts Administrator will be responsible for providing financial and administrative assistance to the Finance Department.

The Role:
• Maintaining Sales Ledger including month-end close down of Sales Ledger;
• Producing sales invoices and credit notes;
• Recording customer payments and generating customer statements;
• Updating the CRM system;
• Maintaining Time and Attendance System;
• Preparing weekly/monthly reports for management;

The Person:
• Have strong IT skills with experience in Microsoft Office applications, in particular MS Excel; • Able to work effectively both on your own initiative and also within a busy team; • Possess excellent organisational, time management and interpersonal skills;
• Have excellent attention to detail and a high numerical understanding;
• Ideally have relevant experience of working in a finance role, but not essential, as training will be provided;
• A business-related qualification would be advantageous but not essential.

The successful candidate should be reliable, efficient, motivated and be able to work as part of a team. Candidates should have a good standard of education, the ability to complete accurate documentation and good communication skills.

To apply please forward a current CV and cover letter to the HR Manager, Smyths Daleside, Ballindrait, Lifford, Co Donegal, F93 K447 or email hr@smythsdaleside.com,

Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5.00pm on Friday 31st May 2024.

The post Job Vacancy: Smyths Daleside hiring Accounts Administrator appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The Letterkenny Musical Society’s spooktacular Addams Family show has earned two prestigious nominations for this year’s Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) awards.

The production is in the running for Best Technical and Best Director: Maria Rushe.

The AIMS awards acknowledge and celebrate the massive talents in musicals performed in Ireland throughout the year.

Staged at An Grianan Theatre in February, The Addams Family was a triumphant revival for LMS after their first run was halted at the peak of the pandemic.

Letterkenny Musical Society’s The Addams Family 2024

Staged at An Grianan Theatre in February, The Addams Family marked a triumphant return for LMS after their initial run was abruptly halted due to the pandemic.

Director Maria Rushe brought her unique vision to life on stage, ably supported by Producer Noel O’Donnell. Emmett Stewart’s superb choreography and a full orchestra conducted by Musical Director Gerard Bradley rounded out the production team.

“All roads lead to Killarney next month and we can’t wait!,” said the LMS team as they celebrate their achievements tonight.

The post Letterkenny Musical Society’s Addams Family scores terrific two AIMS nominations appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Buncrana music teacher Bernie Doherty is setting out to rally the local community together for a fundraising concert for the people of besieged Gaza.

Bernie (pictured) has penned a heartfelt song “None of Us are Free” which will be released at the “Songs of Solidarity” concert taking place in the historical Plaza, Buncrana, on Friday 14 June 2024. The concert promises to be an evening of powerful performances by local artists. Attendees can expect a mix of lively and heartfelt songs and music, echoing the spirit of unity and compassion.

Proceeds of the concert will go towards funding a food drop to Gaza.

Bernie, a musician, mental health and wellbeing advocate from the town, expressed her motivation for writing the new song: “Like so many, I’ve been deeply affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and I wrote this song in order to show my support for the people of Palestine. It is written in the tradition of a simple folk song calling for peace. Indeed, my aim in also recording it has been to amplify a message of peace and keep the deteriorating situation in Gaza in people’s minds.”

Collaborating with renowned classical guitarist and music producer, Sean Woods, the song has been meticulously crafted to resonate with audiences worldwide. Recording the track at Birchwoods Recording Studio in Derry, Sean shares Bernie’s commitment to amplifying a message of peace and the voices of those affected by the crisis.

The lyrics of “None of Us are Free” call on individuals to stand together in solidarity:

“Let’s start with courage, let’s start with love,
Let’s start with standing all together, showing what we are made of.
Let’s start by shouting, ‘This cannot be!’
Unless we all are, then none of us are free,
Unless we all are, then none of us are free.”

Working in conjunction with musician and activist John Cutliffe and the Inishowen Palestine Solidarity Group, Bernie aims to raise awareness and to spark meaningful dialogue within the local community.

John has a long history of campaigning for justice in the region, having lived there and raised funds for embattled hospitals and residents in 2014, when Gaza was under siege.

Bernie concluded with an open invite to people to attend the concert, adding: “I hope that through our music and shared humanity, we will send a very powerful message of both peace and solidarity, which will also resonate more widely: that none of us can be truly free until all are free!”

The post Buncrana singer launching concert and song in solidarity with Gaza appeared first on Donegal Daily.