The Diamond in Donegal Town is set to reopen and reveal its transformed space tomorrow, Friday, just in time for the Donegal Town Summer Festival.

Tomorrow will be a partial reopening as there remains one small section of paving to be completed in July 2024.

The project has seen the refurbishment of the iconic Diamond area with new seating, paving, lighting and planting and a new community canopy and entertainment space for use by the community, businesses, individuals and other groups.

A key element of the works has been to develop an inclusive, accessible and welcoming pedestrian space in the centre of the historical Diamond for locals and visitors alike and for this reason the Council has designated the centre of the Diamond, where the new public realm works have been undertaken, as a pedestrian-only zone.

This means that cars, vans, motorbikes (or any mechanically propelled vehicle) will not be allowed on the centre of the Diamond and the Council is seeking the support and co-operation of all users in terms of complying with this direction, particularly in the interest of health and safety, as well as ensuring the maximum enjoyment for all users of the space. Alternative parking options are available for all vehicles in car parks in the vicinity.

These works have been funded under the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Outdoor Public Space Scheme under Project Ireland 2040 along with co-funding from Donegal County Council. Local architectural firm, Paul Doherty Architects Ltd., led out on the new design of the space while the main contractors were Dungloe based Axis Construction Ltd.

The new community canopy and entertainment space will be available for those wishing to run events and the space must be booked in advance with Donegal Town Community Chamber by e-mailing development@donegaltown.ie for more information.

The Donegal Town Summer Festival, which will take place on 29th and 30th June will provide an excellent opportunity for festival goers to enjoy the newly refurbished space as part of the weekend celebrations and the 550th Anniversary of the founding of Donegal Town. The new community canopy and entertainment space is weatherproofed and will provide a much-needed outdoor venue for hosting regular events and other activities that will increase footfall to the town all year round.

The post New-look Donegal Town Diamond to reopen this Friday appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Renowned artist Ukrainian Igor Kravets is set to open an exhibition in Milford featuring paintings of familiar areas transformed into dreamlike vistas.

First House art and craft studio is thrilled to present The Passage of Time, an eight-day exhibition from July 12th to 20th. The exhibition promises a unique exploration of the relationship between time and human experience.

Igor Kravets is a renowned contemporary artist known for his ability to weave complex narratives into his visual art. His works often delve into themes of memory and change, inviting viewers to reflect on their personal journeys and the transient nature of existence. 

Igor held more than 20 personal and collective exhibitions. In his work, he considers the main traditions of impressionism, partly of Zionist expression, improvisation with clean, open and intense colours, both in oil painting and in watercolour.

A highlight of the exhibition is “Evolving Landscapes,” a series of paintings that transforms familiar environments into dreamlike vistas. This series promises a visual exploration of the fluidity of time and memory.

The exhibition launch offers visitors a well-rounded experience. In addition to the art, attendees can enjoy refreshments in a relaxed zone with live music setting the mood.

Art enthusiasts can participate in a unique workshop on the opening day (July 12th) designed to combine the therapeutic power of art with the magic of wish fulfillment. This workshop delves deeper into the themes of the exhibition, inviting participants to reflect on their personal journeys through time and space.

There is no admission fee for ‘The Passage of Time’.

The “Art Therapy” workshop takes place on June 12th and 13th at 12:30 PM. Due to limited space, pre-registration via the ACS First House blog (www.1st-art-gallery.com/inside-our-studio.html) or Facebook page (www.facebook.com/artcraftstudio1house) is required.

The post Ukrainian artist depicts colourful Milford in new exhibition appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Up to 75 homeowners from across Donegal are part of a claim to to have proceedings against the Minister for Housing and the Irish State admitted to the Commercial Division of the High Court.

The case has been brought by Coleman Legal on behalf of Defective Blocks Ireland CLG.

The new claim seeks to hold the Irish State liable for failing to properly implement European oversight and regulatory reporting rules on construction products.

These cases are separate from and in addition to existing Coleman Legal Group litigation against Cassidy Brothers, Donegal County Council and the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI).

Specifically, the new legal claim alleges the Irish State failed to properly implement Market Surveillance Regulations and Construction Products Regulations from January 1, 2010.

The first of these claims, on behalf of Alan Boal from Letterkenny, alleges a “serious breach of EU law” and was presented to the Commercial Division of the High Court on Monday.

The legal claim further states the Irish State failed to provide relevant oversight and empower state bodies like Donegal County Council with the necessary resources and knowledge to effectively monitor construction products and enforce EU regulations.

This latest legal action represents a significant development in the ongoing defective blocks crisis affecting thousands of homeowners in Donegal and other counties.

Over 2500 homeowners affected by defective concrete damaged homes in Donegal are currently part of a multi-party group litigation in the High Court. This landmark legal action, led by Coleman Legal, seeks to vindicate the rights of all those affected by the defective concrete crisis and aims to achieve a genuine 100% redress by fully restoring the losses of the homeowners.

High Court judge Mr. Justice Denis McDonald was informed of continuing progress with the wider group litigation at the Commercial Court hearing on Monday. Judge McDonald was told that testing of lead plaintiffs’ homes will commence next week and continue through the summer.

Coleman Legal confirmed the High Court that it is scheduled to exchange discovery documents with defendants Cassidy Brothers, Donegal County Council and NSAI in July. Coleman Legal also expects to receive initial test results from Cassidy’s quarry in early July.

Defective Blocks Ireland CLG, is a not-for-profit organisation founded by Buncrana businessmen Adrian Sheridan and Shaun Hegarty.

The post Up to 75 Donegal homeowners part of defective blocks case against Minister for Housing appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Two drivers were arrested last night on suspicion of drug driving by the Letterkenny Roads Policing Unit.

The first driver to be arrested tested positive for cocaine.

The second driver tested positive for cocaine, cannabis and methamphetamine. It also transpired that the second driver was disqualified from driving.

A Garda spokesperson said court proceedings will follow.

“Please do not take risks on the roads. Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” added the spokesperson.

The post Two motorists arrested for drug-driving in Letterkenny appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A garda’s home was targetted while they were working on a road safety project at the Donegal International Rally last weekend.

The Irish Times reports that Garda Christopher Lynch’s wife and young children were inside their home in Co. Meath when a boulder was thrown through the living room window.

The frightening attack occurred last Friday afternoon, while Garda Lynch was in Donegal working on Operation Nexus. The operation is centred on a legally modified Volkswagen Golf which was seized by Gardaí during a crime swoop. Gardaí unveiled the car last weekend as a means of engaging with motor enthusiasts on legal car modifications.

It’s reported that Gardaí believe the attackers learned through social media about Garda Lynch’s deployment to the Donegal Rally and possibly coordinated the attack.

An investigation is currently underway and gardaí are searching for two males – the suspect who threw the boulder and the driver of a getaway vehicle.

“Anybody who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the Kells Road-Athboy Road areas around that time or in the minutes prior to the incident, or anyone who may have dashcam footage, are asked to please contact Trim Garda station,” a Garda spokesperson said.

Read more:  https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2024/06/27/gardas-home-attacked-while-wife-and-children-present-as-he-took-hi-spec-car-to-donegal-rally/

The post Garda’s family home attacked while on duty at Donegal Rally appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Most families in Donegal are unable to access the defective concrete blocks scheme because they cannot come up with excess costs of €50,000 and €150,000, the Tánaiste has been told.

Sinn Féin Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn highlighted issues with the enhanced redress scheme to Micheál Martin in the Dáil today. Deputy Mac Lochlainn said the biggest redress scheme in the history of the state “isn’t working” and that packed public meetings in Donegal and Mayo give evidence to the anger.

“Will you now ensure like what happened with pyrite for over 3,000 families in North Leinster who got 100% redress, will you now deliver a scheme as genuine 100% redress for families in Donegal, Mayo Sligo and right down the west of Ireland?,” Deputy Mac Lochlainn asked.

Mr Martin responded: “I do understand fully the plight of many householders whose houses, for quite a number of them, are uninhabitable and the real distress and anxiety caused as a result of the Mica.”

On the enhanced scheme announced in 2021, Mr Martin said: “My understanding is a lot of people are applying to the scheme and are getting their houses refurbished.”

The Tánaiste added that he has asked Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien again for an update.

Last week, Minister O’Brien published the latest statistics for the scheme which revealed that 43 out of a total 1,652 applicants in Donegal have had works fully completed on their homes.

The post Tánaiste is told how exorbitant costs block access to defective blocks scheme appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Patrick McCaffrey and Sons Ltd is currently seeking applications from suitable candidates for the position of Accounts Administrator.

Patrick McCaffrey and Sons Ltd are a Civil Engineering and Road Surfacing Contractor and Quarry owner based in South Donegal. The Company undertake Road Resurfacing and Minor Civil Engineering works for both public and private customers. 

The ideal candidate will hold a IATI OR SIMILAR ACCOUNTING Qualifications.

• Relevant practical accounting experience.
• Proficient in MS Office, ICDL will be an advantage.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Preparation of Monthly Management accounts.
• General Office administration.

Excellent package is available depending on the experience of the candidate to date. 

Training will be provided as required.

To apply, please submit a CV and supporting letter to: marie@pmccaffreyquarry.com

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 6th July 2024.

The post Job Vacancy: Accounts Administrator required by South Donegal firm appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A second teenage boy has died from his injuries following a tragic collision involving a bus and an e-scooter in Waterford city this morning.

Two teenage boys were travelling on an e-scooter when they collided with a bus at around 2.10am on the R680 Cork Road.

A fifteen year-old boy died at the scene. The second boy, aged 17, was taken to Waterford University Hospital with serious injuries. He passed away from his injuries earlier this afternoon.

The driver of the bus was uninjured. There were no passengers onboard at the time.

Gardaí are appealing to witnesses, particularly any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the Cork Road in Waterford city between 1.45am and 2.15am, to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

The post National: Second teenage boy dies following e-scooter and bus collision appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Two competitors in a major sailing race were rescued in a dramatic overnight operation by Lough Swilly RNLI lifeboat crew.

The alarm was raised shortly after 10:45 pm on Wednesday night when Malin Head Coast Guard received a distress call from a 36-foot yacht. The vessel, carrying two crew members, had got into difficulty near Inishtrahull Island, roughly 7 nautical miles northwest of Malin Head.

The yacht, reportedly participating in the gruelling ‘Round Ireland Race,’ had lost power and its sails had become tangled in the mast.

Lough Swilly RNLI’s All Weather Shannon Class Lifeboat was immediately deployed to assist the struggling vessel.

Weather conditions during the rescue were described as “challenging”, with strong winds blowing up to Force 8. Despite the difficult circumstances, the lifeboat crew successfully secured the yacht and towed it to Culdaff Bay, where the crew attempted to untangle the sails and restore power.

At around 3am, as the weather worsened, the crew managed to free the sails, but the decision was made to tow the yacht further for safety reasons.

The lifeboat crew brought the vessel to the secure harbour at Greencastle. Once safely delivered, the lifeboat crew then undertook the return journey to Buncrana Pier, where they refuelled and prepared for their next mission.

Lough Swilly Press Officer, Joe Joyce commended the skill and dedication of the volunteer crew. He stated that this was a very challenging service call for everyone involved and wished the crew on the yacht the best of luck as they hope to continue with their race.

The post Yacht racers rescued off Donegal coast appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal Youth Service is very excited to announce the return of the popular youth event Party in the Park in Letterkenny this summer for its 18th year! 

This year’s event in collaboration with Earagail Arts Festival will be bigger and better than ever and will take place on Friday the 26th of July from 12-6pm in the Letterkenny Bernard McGlinchey Town Park. As always, entry is free so mark your diaries and bring the whole family for a fantastic fun day out.

This amazing event will have something for all ages including live music from young bands and solo artists, art workshops, festival face painting, sports activities, intercultural dance performances and much more. 

The Party in the Park has been an invaluable creative platform for our local youth having showcased promising young talent throughout the years. Many famous performers who began their musical journey at Donegal Youth Service’s ‘Party In the Park’ have proceeded to acquire successful recording contracts including members of Fontaines DC, The Murder Capital, In Their Thousands, Phat Kidz and Eve Belle!

Popular local band ‘The Ephades’ will be returning to the stage for the third consecutive year claiming “Party in the Park is where is all started for us and we are very grateful to the Service for this amazing opportunity”.  

Donegal Youth Service welcomes you all join the festivities and celebrate this drug and alcoholic-free, family-friendly Party in the Park event! 

The post Mark your calenders for a family-friendly ‘Party in the Park’ appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old St Johnston lad Kevin Pyne.

Kevion was last seen at approximately 7.50am on Tuesday, 25th June 2024 in St.Johnston.

Kevin is described as being approximately 5 foot 5 inches in height with a slim build, fair hair and brown eyes.

When last seen, he was wearing black air force shoes, grey tracksuit bottoms and a marron coloured t-shirt.

Kevin is thought to be in the Letterkenny area.

Anyone with any information on Kevin’s whereabouts is asked to contact Letterkenny Garda Station on 074 916 7100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

The post Gardai searching for missing Donegal teenager, Kevin Pyne, 15 appeared first on Donegal Daily.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Veterinary Practice Manager to join a busy team in Carndonagh Veterinary Practice in Co Donegal. This is a full-time position.

The successful candidate will oversee and develop the work of a veterinary practice.

The role involves running the practice in a way that ensures a caring and professional service is provided for clients and patients, while also strategising ways that the business can grow, develop and become more involved with the local community. 

Main Duties and responsibilities:

The following is a list of essential job requirements. This list may be revised at any time and additional duties not listed here may be assigned as needed. Job Functions and Job Responsibilities include overseeing that the following occur within the veterinary practice:

Staff Management:

• Attract and hire talented staff members, ensuring appropriate references are obtained.
• Conduct regular performance and salary reviews and handle any necessary disciplinary actions or terminations with professionalism.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning by organizing training sessions, educational programs, and professional development opportunities for staff.
• Efficiently manage staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage and productivity.
• Clearly define and assign job responsibilities to each team member, promoting clarity and accountability.
• Provide effective supervision and support to staff, ensuring high standards of performance.
• Enforce employee policies consistently and fairly, maintaining a positive work environment.
• Cultivate a positive workplace culture through effective communication and relationship-building with employees.
• Organize and lead regular staff meetings to ensure open communication and team cohesion.
• Continuously monitor and assess employee competence and effectiveness, providing feedback and support as needed.
• Inspire and motivate staff to achieve their best performance and contribute to a collaborative and enthusiastic work environment.

Client Management:

• Ensure all staff are thoroughly trained according to practice standards and confirm that these standards are consistently understood and practiced by everyone.
• Ensure clients and patients are seen and treated in a professional, timely, and competent manner by effectively overseeing the client flow process.
• Take responsibility for the administration and review of non-medical client complaints, ensuring prompt and satisfactory resolution.
• Supervise the callback system, including managing overdue reminder calls to maintain effective client communication.
• Oversee debtor management processes to ensure timely and efficient collection of outstanding payments.
• Supervise all billing activities, including the calculation of discounts and management of special accounts, to ensure accuracy and customer satisfaction.

Office Management:

• Modify and update systems and procedures wherever needed to better serve clients, patients, the practice and employees (i.e., modify schedules for the most productive use of time).
• Confirm / monitor receipt of all supplies, mark invoices and packing slips received and provide to owner.
• Ensure that the OSHA and Safety program and procedures are being continuously monitored, updated and reported so the practice is in safety compliance.

Production Management:

• Meet with the Practice Owner regularly to discuss, evaluate and plan for the welfare of the practice.
• Ensure the effectiveness and innovation of both internal and external marketing events.

Records Management:

• Oversee that records are kept up to date. This includes client records with correct names, addresses, pets, charges, medical history, vaccine status, medications administered, laboratory reports, etc.
• Ensure that system for authorization of forms for boarding, grooming, surgery, laboratory, x-ray, euthanasia, etc., callbacks, client cards and filing is in place and all receptionists are in compliance.
• Responsible for follow-up and corrections on reminder cards, statements and any other returned mailings.

Financial Management:

• Monitor the cost of purchasing so the practice operates within budget.
• Monitor staff scheduling so the practice operates within budget.
• Monitor and approve all expenditures within guidelines.
• Oversee petty cash control and all other accounting functions established.
• Review accounts receivable and accounts payable to confirm proper and timely process.
• Either directly prepares or supervises the preparation of all business accounting reports and transactions. Audits both the preparer and the practice personnel performance to assure that proper methods and techniques are being used.
• Regularly collaborate with staff to review suppliers to ensure optimal prices are obtained.

Marketing Management:

• Works with Practice owner to create marketing strategy, assesses success of all current marketing initiatives
• Works closely with the staff to implement marketing initiatives, utilizing training, motivation, and incentives.

Facility Maintenance:

• Oversee the maintenance/housekeeping of the practice for orderliness and cleanliness of both the inside and outside of the building.

Communication:

• Read and respond to all communication in a timely manner.
• Ensure that policies, guidelines and recommendations are quickly communicated to staff and adequate training follows.
• Plan practice management meetings with Practice Owner.
• Organize monthly staff meeting agenda in conjunction with practice management team.

Key Skills / Attributes: 

• Business Studies Degree or other relevant qualification.
• Budget management experience. 
• Minimum of three years’ experience in a similar environment and role. 
• Customer, people and results centric. 
• Works logically and systematically to solve problems, make decisions and think laterally and flexibly with the ability to manage sustainable change. 
• Commercially astute, analytical with a high degree of numeracy. 
• IT literate and able to leverage software and hardware platforms to advantage. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well as part of a team, as well as manage people; excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. 
• Maintains a positive attitude to continued learning and growth

Remuneration:

• Salary negotiable dependant on experience and qualifications.
• An interesting managerial role with ongoing support, training and development.
• Long established team working with the local community for many years.

If you feel you have the necessary talent, skills, experience and attitude to be successful in the role, then we would encourage you to apply by sending a covering letter stating the role applying for and CV to recruitment@inishowencoop.com.  Closing date for receipt of applications will be Wednesday 17th July 2024.

Carndonagh Veterinary Practice is an equal opportunities Employer.

The post Job Vacancy: Veterinary Practice Manager sought in Inishowen appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Sponsored Content

The progressive Letterkenny Rovers FC is offering a jam packed weekend next month with none other than the Manchester Utd Legends!

The club is giving members of the public the opportunity for a ‘Meet and Greet’ on Saturday, July 27, before the big match between ten Man Utd Legends and Letterkenny Rovers at Leckview Park.

Even better, you can also play in the match against such giants as Jaap Stam, and finish off the day at the Gala Dinner.

See the special message from Jaap Stam below:

Such has been the demand for this much sought after event, the Friday July 26 golf classic with the former stars, at St Patrick’s Links Course in Rosapenna, has already sold out.

The epic showdown between the Legends and Rovers is being billed as a ‘never-before-seen match in Letterkenny’. 

Fancy meeting some of your United idols and seeing first-hand the infamous 1999 Treble Winning Trophies? The United Legends are ready to meet you, so get your tickets now!  

Match Tickets

It’s a game not to be missed, match tickets are Selling Fast. So don’t delay, get yours today so you don’t miss out in seeing this once in a lifetime experience in Letterkenny.

Fancy a Special Night Out at a Gala Dinner with the United Legends at the Mount Errigal Hotel? Tickets available now. This is a golden opportunity for a memorable night out with friends and family alongside sporting Legends. A night you’ll talk to your friends about for years to come, so book your space soon. 

Sponsorship Opportunities

Thank you to the businesses who have been in touch regarding Sponsorship opportunities already. If any other businesses would like to advertise in the Match Day Programme, or have their business name displayed around the pitch during the game, please don’t hesitate to contact us by email to admin@letterkennyroversfc.ie 

Sponsorship Available in the following areas:- 

• Match Day Sponsor
• Match Ball Sponsor
• Player Sponsors
• Golf T-Box Sponsors
• Golf Green Sponsor
• Transportation Sponsor
• Business Visit Sponsors
• Auction Sponsors

“The club is very excited to be holding this calibre of event, and we appreciate all the support,” a Letterkenny Rovers spokesperson said.

“A great day out for you will benefit the development of our club facilities and , in turn,  our players and community for years to come.”

To purchase tickets, click on the link below. But hurry, tickets are selling fast! 

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/manchester-utd-legends-v-letterkenny-rovers-fc-3224229?fbclid=IwAR2CvSfcd5mUF4KmEMxUVcKApVerZijHf6Bq-yAXasag1wYeZMV8MyAh8Lo

The post Huge interest as Letterkenny Rovers to host Man Utd Legends weekend! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A very special guest joined TCS in Letterkenny as they churned up support for Down Syndrome Ireland during an ice cream funday fundraiser.

A very special guest, Seanie McMenamin from Down Syndrome Donegal visited the Letterkenny Global Delivery Centre for the occasion. Over €800 was raised for the vital services and support Down Syndrome Ireland provides.

The day was a delicious success, bringing the community together for a cool cause!

The post Seanie’s scoops of joy at TCS fundraiser! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Sponsored Post

Music lovers and festival goers, get ready! The legendary Lennon Festival returns to Ramelton for its 53rd year and there’s something for absolutely everyone.

The festivities kick off in style on Thursday, July 4th with the Official Opening Ceremony featuring the legendary Moya Brennan, the lead singer of Clannad.

Over the following two weekends, a lineup of fantastic acts takes the stage, including The Tumbling Paddies, a Springsteen tribute, Robert Mizzell, Abba Sensations, and country music stars Jimmy and Claudia Buckley.

Get your tickets at the gate each night or secure advance tickets for the main stage shows here to avoid disappointment: https://www.ticketsource.eu/lennonfestival

The Lennon Festival is more than just music!

Get ready to belt out your favourite tunes because the legendary Singing Pubs are back for the entire festival.

Don’t miss John Quinn Nory’s book launch for ‘From Ramelton to Clydebank’ at McFadden’s Shop on Saturday 13th July at 4.30pm.

Some of the many other exciting events on the calendar include the wacky racers at the Soap Box Derby down Church Street on Sunday 7th July. Or get colourful in the Colour Run on Wednesday evening 10th July, take a trip down memory lane at the Vintage Vehicle Show on Saturday 13th July and prepare to be amazed by the mobile Planetarium Dome on Saturday the 13th July at 4pm in the Town Hall. And you won’t want to miss the dazzling fireworks display on Monday 15th July!

Don’t miss out on this legendary festival! Put ‘Ramelton’ on your calendar for a fortnight of unforgettable fun, music, and memories!

Follow the Lennon Festival Ramelton Facebook page today where the full festival programme will be revealed.

The post Get ready for a fortnight of fun at the Lennon Festival! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A missing Donegal teenager has been located safe and well.

Fifteen-year-old Kevin Pyne had been missing from St Johnston since Tuesday 25th June.

Two hours after issuing a public appeal this evening, Gardai confirmed that Kevin has been found.

“We would like to thank the public and media for their assistance,” a spokesperson said.

The post Missing Donegal teen found after public appeal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A number of well-known business and iconic Donegal landmarks certainly appear to be throwing their weight behind Jim McGuinness and his team ahead of their huge date at Croke Park this Sunday. 

But before we think that some people may be getting carried away, it’s worth remembering that it’s a virtual tribute to Jimmy and the boys.

Jimmy’s Jerseys, a recently launched local t-shirt company known for their unique Donegal GAA supporter T-shirts, has launched an innovative campaign that celebrates both their creative designs and the pride of Donegal GAA.

In a striking visual tribute, Jimmy’s Jerseys has projected their distinctive t-shirt designs onto some of Donegal’s most iconic landmarks.

In a vibrant effort to rally behind Jim McGuinness and his team ahead of the All Ireland Football Quarter final this weekend, Jimmy’s Jerseys has illuminated several prominent Donegal landmarks with their unique designs.

Have any of these designs caught your eye and stopped you on your travels? No?

Well, thats because this campaign is a digital one, these beautiful t-shirt designs have been super-imposed onto some of our most well known landmarks with the resulting images going viral on social media.

The following landmarks now serve as glowing canvases for these unique projections:

Letterkenny Main Street: The bustling heart of Donegal’s largest town virtually features a giant Jim McGuinness mural on the side of the popular Quiet Moment Coffee House which is sure to hype fans up for the quarter finals and beyond.

An Grianàn of Aileach, Burt: This ancient hillfort, steeped in history, provides a majestic backdrop for the modern artistry of Jimmy’s Jerseys, a message that Jimmys is Still Winning Matches takes up the center of the ringfort symbolizing a bridge between Donegal’s rich past and its dynamic GAA present.

Leo’s Tavern, Crolly: Known as the birthplace of world-famous musicians Enya and Clannad, Leo’s Tavern proudly displays a message “In Jim We Trust” on its Gable wall, merging musical heritage with sporting pride.

Fanad Lighthouse: One of Ireland’s most picturesque lighthouses, Fanad now beams even brighter with the addition of Jimmy’s Jerseys’ distinctive design, a huge mural of Jim in a ‘Che Guevara’ style portrait is now adorned on the lighthouse exterior, guiding fans’ spirits as steadfastly as it guides ships.

Biddy O’ Barnes: The beloved famouse Irish Pub in Barnesmore Gap, has been given a lively makeover with a projection featuring one of the Donegal manager’s most famous quotes, inspiring all who visit.

Nancy’s Bar Ardara: A genuine traditional Irish Pub located in the heritage town of Ardara, the pub showcases the T-shirts’ projections, reminding people that Jim McGuinness has a plan and he is no lucky man!

Glenveagh National Park: Amidst the serene beauty of this national park, the Jimmy’s Jerseys mural draped over one of the castle tower, offers a burst of local colour, and a reminder that its crunch time in the All Ireland Football Championship! Inviting nature lovers to celebrate Donegal’s sporting heritage.

One of the main focuses of this campaign is to pay homage to Jim McGuinness, the legendary Donegal GAA manager who led the county to All-Ireland glory in 2012. McGuinness’s influence on Donegal GAA is indelible, and Jimmy’s Jerseys aims to honor his legacy through these striking t-shirt designs.

There are plenty additional designs on the Jimmys Jerseys website, which feature star players and with kids and infant sizes also available this is a great option for showing your support for the team in a unique and eye catching way this summer.

Owen O’Donnell, the founder of Jimmy’s Jerseys, said “We wanted to do something special that honours both our products and our community. By projecting our designs on these monuments, we’re celebrating Donegal in a way that connects our heritage with our passion for GAA and acknowledges the incredible contributions of Jim McGuinness and the teams of the last decade. It’s our way of saying thank you to the people who support us and to the places that inspire us.”

Social media has been abuzz with the photos, yearning positive reactions, highlighting the campaign’s success in promoting local pride and unity.

To get yourself a t-shirt, jumper or hoodie featuring these famous designs, log onto www.jimmysjerseys.com

The post Jimmy’s Jerseys help Donegal become virtual winners – even before Croker date appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Two women’s charities in Donegal have received the proceeds of Team Donegal Oil’s second Women’s Only Multi-Sport Adventure Challenge.

The outdoor challenge, which took place in Gartan in April, attracted over 200 participants this year.

The event raised a grand total of €5,000 which was divided between Donegal Domestic Violence Service (DWDVS) and the Donegal Women’s Centre.

All registration fees and donations went directly to the charities, enabling them to extend their counselling services to more women in need.

Arthur McMahon, Managing Director of Donegal Oil Company; Mary Herlihy, Manager of the Donegal Women’s Centre; Graceann McGarvey of Grace Ann Consultancy, PR & Marketing Agency; and Myles Sweeney, CEO of Donegal Sports Partnership (DSP). Missing from the photo: Shaun Stewart, Event Coordinator, and Rory Kennedy, Smart Renewables.

Arthur McMahon, Managing Director of Donegal Oil Company; Dr. Marie Hainsworth of Donegal Domestic Violence Services; Graceann McGarvey of Grace Ann Consultancy, PR & Marketing Agency; and Myles Sweeney, CEO of Donegal Sports Partnership (DSP). Missing from the photo: Shaun Stewart, Event Coordinator, and Rory Kennedy, Smart Renewables.

The organising committee, including Myles Sweeney of Donegal Sports Partnership, Arthur McMahon of Donegal Oil Company, Rory Kennedy of Smart Renewables, Graceann McGarvey of Grace Ann Consultancy Marketing & PR, and Shaun Stewart, were delighted with the turnout.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Gartan Lake, participants demonstrated their resilience and determination by completing a 4k run, 20k cycle, and 1k kayak. For many, this was their first experience with such an event.

Event Co-ordinator Shaun Stewart expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Witnessing the incredible achievements of all the women was thrilling. This race is about more than crossing the finish line; it’s about pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and empowering one another. We are immensely proud of every participant and the bonds they’ve formed.”

Arthur McMahon of sponsors Donegal Oil Company highlighted the event’s success, saying, “The atmosphere was electric, and Gartan was buzzing with inspiration and determination. Women came from all across the County, Northern Ireland, Sligo, Cork, and Galway. The geographical reach was amazing, and we’re excited to do it again next year.”

Donegal Sports Partnership CEO Myles Sweeney added, “Events like this are vital for providing opportunities for women of all abilities to participate, aligning with Sport Ireland’s National Women in Sport strategy. We are extremely proud of every woman who challenged herself to complete the event.”

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the staff, volunteers, and supporters, including the Donegal Sports Partnership team, Gartan Outdoor Education Centre, Eco Atlantic Adventures, and numerous individuals and organisations who contributed to the event’s success.

The post Donegal women’s charities benefit from female multi-sport challenge appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal star Peadar Mogan has been named as the PwC GAA/GPA Footballer of the Month for May. 

The St Naul’s clubman got the nod ahead of Galway’s Damien Comer and Louth’s Craig Lennon. 

Mogan has already been crowned Footballer of the Week twice this season so far for his electric pace and relentless runs from deep against Armagh in the Ulster Final and Tryone in the group stages.

He follows on from fellow Donegal player, Ryan McHugh, who won the Footballer of the Month award for April. 

The PwC GAA/GPA Players of the Month Award winners are voted for by the GPA’s membership.

The post Mogan crowned Footballer of the Month for May appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A well-known County Donegal developer is to reapply for planning permission for a large-scale development in Letterkenny after the project was initially turned down by An Bord Pleanala.

PJ McDermott applied to build almost 300 houses and apartments at Glencar Irish and Glencar Scotch in Letterkenny.

The first phase of the application consists of 90 residential unites and a crèche.

The second phase is for 64 four-bed semi-detached houses; 22 three-bed semi-detached houses; a further 40 three-bed semi-detached houses of different design; six three-bed terraced blocks to contain a total of 24 units; two two-bed terraced blocks; seven blocks of two-bed apartments to a total of 28 units; and two two-bed semi detached houses.

The application was met opposition from local residents who submitted an eleven page document of objection to An Bord Pleanála in March of this year.

They argued that the current infrastructure is incapable of dealing with the current traffic flow and would be under further strain with an additional volume.

They also pointed to several existing houses in the surrounding areas have been blighted by defective blocks and residents note that they expect ‘considerable traffic disruption’ with planned remedial works on these buildings.

Prior to the submission of the planning application, the developer engaged with Donegal County Council, under the Large-scale Residential Development (LRD) provisions in the Planning and Development (Amendment) (Large-scale Residential Development) Act 2021.

Arising from the LRD pre-planning meetings and following a comprehensive and detailed examination of the proposed development, Donegal County Council issued an LRD Opinion, setting out its requirements for the development.

These requirements formed the basis for and were incorporated into the planning application, which was subsequently approved by the Council.

The decision to grant permission was the subject of 1st party and 3rd party appeals to An Bord Pleanala (the Board). In its decision on 11th June 2024, the Board refused planning permission for the development for two reasons.

The board considered that the density of development (16-23 dwellings per hectare-dph) fell significantly short of applying the applicable range of 35-50dph envisaged in the Compact Settlement Guidelines 2024.

In addition, the board considered the design and layout of the scheme did not comply with the design guidance of those same Guidelines.

While initially disappointed with the decision, Mr. McDermott says he has been greatly encouraged by the ‘rationale of the board and its planning inspector, which underpinned the decision.’

The developer confirmed he has now instructed his design team to amend the development to reflect the board’s recommendations.

Essentially the board, confirming its planning inspector’s assessment, considered that “proposed density is unacceptably low and would not meet the local, regional, and national policy aims to achieve compact growth on this strategic residential landbank within a designated Regional Growth Centre.”

It also stated “Rather than replicating the recent pattern of low-density suburban housing, the appeal site and adjoining lands are of such a scale and significance that necessitates the definition of a new character with increased density in accordance with the provisions of the Compact Settlement Guidelines.”

The board also cited shortcomings in the design and layout of the scheme noting it “did not consider that the development would make an acceptable contribution in terms of quality urban design and placemaking.”

The low density and the design/layout issues, forming the reasons for refusal were approved by Donegal County Council in its LRD Opinion presented to the developer.

Mr McDermott said these will now be addressed in a new planning application and the developer says he is confident that the board’s concerns about these matters will be resolved which he believes “will pave the way for the development to proceed in the near future.”

“It is notable that the board in reaching its decision, dismissed all of the third party points of objection, which ranged from the magnitude of the development, traffic congestion/hazard, adverse impacts on residential amenities and the preservation of wildlife and ecology,” added Mr McDermott.

The post Developer to reapply for planning permission for Letterkenny development appeared first on Donegal Daily.