A Donegal man who took part in an Amyloidosis treatment trial has welcomed positive developments announced this week.

James Green from Letterkenny is one of just three patients in the world to take part in Phase 1 of a genome editing therapy trial.

James, who works as an accountant, was diagnosed with Hereditary Amyloidosis four years ago. It is estimated that 1% of the Donegal population carries a strand of this condition known as ‘Donegal Amy’.

Soon after his diagnosis, James decided to enrol in a clinical-stage trial in the UK targeting the treatment of the rare and progressive disease. (Featured photo: James Green in London during his second Crispr infusion in May 2023)

Leading medical company Intellia Therapeutics has this week announced the successful results of the dose-escalation therapy conducted on three patients administered with two doses of NTLA-2001 over two years.

The NTLA-2001 treatment is designed to inactivate the TTR gene that encodes for the transthyretin (TTR) protein and causes serious complications in the heart, nerves, digestive system, and other tissue of ATTR amyloidosis patients.

First-ever clinical data demonstrates redosing with a CRISPR-based medicine isn’t always necessary, but it is possible. According to Intellia CEO John Leonard, M.D, this represents an exciting advancement in the pursuit of treatment of other diseases where patients might need more than one dose to reach the desired therapeutic effect.

These data from the Phase 1 study of NTLA-2001 were presented at the Peripheral Nerve Society Annual Meeting this week in Montreal, Canada.

James’ trial results have shown a 95% median reduction in serum TTR in his body. Delighted with the outcome, he said: “It’s fantastic news for patients with hereditary and wild type amyloidosis as both conditions are caused by the breakdown of the transthyretin protein, TTR, produced in liver.

“The trial drug NTLA 2001 edits the DNA code to achieve a deep reduction in the level of transthyretin circulating in the bloodstream. The phase 1 clinical trial has already been expanded in to a Phase 3 magnitude trial with patients now being enrolled in the United States.

“The NTLA 2001 trial drug alongside other new therapies in development for amyloid removal have the potential to be a cure for transthyretin amyloidosis. I am clinically well and don’t require any ongoing treatment. The freedom that gives is immeasurable.”

James on a trek to Everest Base Camp last October

While James himself does not need re-dosing, Intellia says the ability to re-dose is a key advantage of its non-viral, lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery platform.

Development and commercialisation of NTLA-2001 is led by Intellia as part of a multi-target collaboration with Regeneron.

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It’s looking like a mixed weekend of weather ahead.

Met Éireann’s latest forecast for Ulster shows that this morning will start out cloudy for most, with a mixture of some isolated showers and sunny spells in some areas as the morning progresses.

Outbreaks of rain will clear towards the south this afternoon, leading to some more consistent sunshine, and highest temperatures between 16 and 21 degrees.

Temperatures will dip tonight, with cloud and some isolated showers moving in.

Lowest temperatures between 6 and 11 degrees overnight tonight.

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An Italian tourist brilliantly took it upon herself to help clean up the area around the beautiful Lough Salt lake.

Members of the local Termon Clean-up Group were pleasantly surprised to see Margerita Bertolia out and about collecting litter that had collected at the lakeside.

Ms Bertolia was visiting Donegal in her trusty white Fiat campervan when she noticed the volume of rubbish that had been left in the Lough Salt area by less conscientious tourists than her.

Originally from Turin, she is currently travelling around Europe in her van with her current base being in County Cork.

She took it upon herself to source some old fertilizer bags in the local area, and collected up several bags of rubbish all by herself.

Ms Bertolia was spotted by a member of the local clean-up group passing by, who felt her good deeds deserved recognition.

James Trearty from the Termon Clean-up Group thanked her for her efforts, and kindly shared her story with Donegal Daily.

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Three of the five Municipal District Councils in Donegal have elected a Cathaoirleach for the upcoming year, and all of them are from Sinn Fein.

As part of what’s understood to be a voting agreement, Sinn Fein now hold the position of Cathaoirleach in the Glenties, Donegal and Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal Districts.

Cllr John Seamais Ó Fearraigh is Cathaoirleach of the Glenties MD, and Cllr Noel Jordan has been appointed to the position in the Donegal MD.

Meanwhile Cllr Gary Doherty was chosen for the position in Lifford-Stranorlar.

Cllr Doherty had an eventful first day as Cathaoirleach, as Cllr Frank McBrearty raised a number of concerns in a fiery first MD meeting of the year.

You can read more about that here.

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Tayto has been forced to issue a recall after parts of a golf ball were found in a batch of their crisps.

The affected crisps have best before dates of the 21st, 22nd and 23rd of August 2024.

In a statement, the company said that the golf ball fragments may have been harvested “inadvertently” along with a batch of potatoes.

The golf ball chunks were found in a “small number” of packets according to Tayto, as they issued the voluntary recall.

The following Tayto products with best before dates of the 21st, 22nd and 23rd of August 2024 are on the recall list:

Tayto Cheese & Onion 37g

Tayto Salt & Vinegar 37g

Tayto Cheese & Onion 6 pack (6x25g)

Tayto Variety 6 pack (6x25g)

Tayto Cheese & Onion 6 pack flashed €2.50 (6x25g)

Tayto Variety 6 pack flashed €2.50 (6x25g)

Tayto Cheese & Onion 10 pack flashed €3.75 (10x25g)

Tayto Cheese & Onion 12 pack (12x25g)

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A number of members of the Lough Swilly RNLI were honoured at a recent ceremony at Arás an Uachtaráin by President Michael D Higgins.

They were invited to a special garden party this week by the Presdient and his wife Sabina, celebrating 200 years of the RNLI keeping those on Ireland’s seas safe.

Lough Swilly RNLI members Paddy Murphy, Bridgita Kelly, Barry Stevenson and William Monaghan made the trip to Dublin on behalf of the team.

On social media, they gave special mention to Paddy Murphy, who went straight from a 10-hour callout to an emergency to the Arás!

“A special mention to Paddy Murphy who was just back on dry land after a 10 hour service call at sea,” Lough Swilly RNLI posted.

“Rumour has it Murfs is still sleeping, nobody has seen him since! ”

The post Lough Swilly RNLI members honoured at Arás an Uachtaráin appeared first on Donegal Daily.

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

Senior Ladies

Raphoe Town 4 – 5 Bonagee United

A penalty from Orlaith Connolly started the scoring in a fantastic game of football in Drumineneny that saw last year’s league champions Bonagee, pushed to the wire by an ever-improving Raphoe team. That penalty was won after Vanessa McHugh was upended and the Raphoe striker was a thorn in the side of the Bonagee team all night, but even a hat-trick from her wasn’t enough to seal the points from a battling Bonagee side who showed just why they are reigning champions. McHugh got the first of her three a few minutes after the penalty, but it was far from one way traffic and Bonagee who had forced Aimee Kelly to make a couple of fine stops, got a goal back before the break when Caitlin Fletcher raced clear to score. Aisling Mugan had the teams back on level terms a few minutes into the second half, but again Raphoe responded, and Vanessa McHugh scored her second to give the home side the lead again. Natalie McFadden fired back for Bonagee to make it 3-3 with ten minutes left on the clock. There were chances at both ends with both goalkeepers making good saves, but when Alicia McCullagh and Lauren O’Donnell combined to set up Vanessa McHugh for her hat-trick, the home side must have thought they could hold out. However Bonagee had other ideas and Catherine Grier soon had the teams level and with just a few minutes left to play Caitlin Fletcher sealed all three points for the visitors in this 5-4 thriller. Well done to both teams for great game of football on a very hot night.

Under 12

Group 1

Gweedore United 0 – 1 Donegal Town

The Gweedore girls started the game well with Lucy Doohan having two shots that went just wide. Donegal Town started to get into the game more in the second half and with the game heading for a 0-0 draw Abigail McCahill scored the winner with 3 minutes remaining. Great credit to both teams for a great game.

Kilmacrennan Celtic 4 – 0 Convoy Arsenal

On a glorious evening for football, Lurgy Park was the venue as Kilmacrennan bounced back from their opening day defeat to seal a win over a battling Convoy team. The home team started brightly, dominating both territory and chances with Caidhla, Aoibhinn, Mia, and Jorjamae all going close but found the Convoy keeper a tough nut to crack. They did finally take the lead when a pass from Aoibhinn found Hayley and she made no mistake from close range. Try as they might the home team continued to force the pace but failed to find the net again and it was 1 – 0 at the break. The 2nd half was more of the same with the Convoy defence under pressure but to their credit they battled hard for every ball, however they conceded a 2nd goal after 40 minutes when Caidhlas shot was well saved before Roise fired home the rebound. Minutes later it was 3 when the lively Jorjamae swept home from the edge of the box after Hayley’s pass. The final goal arrived on 50 minutes when Hayley broke free and kept her composure to fire home from just inside the box to send the large crowd away happy. A battling performance from Convoy who will undoubtedly improve as the season continues, they worked hard in warm conditions and were a credit to their coaches Ian, Roslyn, Teresa and Paddy. Strong team performance from the home team with Aoibhinn, Hayley, Mia and Jorjamae to the fore. Game was excellently controlled by Gavin Doherty.

Ballyraine 1 – 1 Lagan Harps

The spoils were shared in an intense game at Orchard Grove on Tuesday evening, as Ballyraine came from behind to maintain their unbeaten record in the league this season in a close fought match in very warm conditions. In a very even first half, the visitors moved the ball well and created slightly more chances than the home side, but neither strikeforce could break the deadlock by half time. Lagan started the second half on the front foot, and took the lead through a stunning free kick from Emily McMahon from wide on the left. Her clean strike from a narrow angle bent into the top corner giving Holly Gordon no chance in the Ballyraine goal. Lagan pressed for a second as Ballyraine tried to regroup after losing centre back Cora Lannon to injury, but a fine full stretch save from Gordon, and a superb last ditch tackle by Millie Toland kept the deficit to the minimum. Ballyraine rallied and started to apply pressure at the other end, with Hanna Carty probing on the right wing, however, Lagan netminder E. Sharkey dealt capably with several dangerous crosses, as well as saving from Ballyraine top scorer Maria Wenelska. It fell to midfield maestro Millie Toland to tie things up. after surging forward following good work by Stella Sweeney to fire home with a powerful long range drive which eluded the keeper and crept into the corner. Ballyraine sparked to life after the goal and pressed hard for a winner, with the best chance falling to Maria Wenelska who broke clear of the defence, but Sharkey narrowed her angles well and the shot went just the wrong side of the post. Ultimately the draw was by that the fairest result in this pulsating match with exceptional football played by both sets of players, very capably refereed by John Coll.

Mulroy Academy 2 – 3 Cappry Rovers

Keadue Rovers 0 – 2 Finn Valley

Finn Valley came away from Keadue on Tuesday evening with a brilliant 2-0 victory. On a beautiful evening for football the large crowd were treated to an incredible game between two excellent teams. Keadue dominated the first half and but for some poor finishing and excellent saves from the visiting goalkeeper they would have been a few goals ahead. The second half was more nip and tuck with both teams coming close to scoring with Ciara Gallagher’s sensational save from Isla Patton the outstanding moment of the game. With 3 minutes left, Finn Valley struck a sucker punch when after a brilliant through ball Saoirse Hannigan finished brilliantly. Keadue pushed hard for a deserved equaliser and got caught again in Injury time when Riona McIntyre finished well. It was hard on the home side, but they can have no complaints with the performance. Dessie Mclaughlin was the man in the middle, and he let the game flow brilliantly.

Group 2

Milford United 2 – 1 Letterbarrow Celtic Youths

Milford got off to a flying start when Grace Murray broke through in the 2nd minute to slot home with a tidy finish. Milford had chances to extend their lead and it came on the 21st minute when Michaella McElhinney scored with a bullet of a strike into the top corner. Milford went in 2 nil up at the break. After the break Milford continued to dominate but failed to take their chances. Letterbarrow got a consolidation goal in injury time and the game finished 2-1 to Milford. Some lovely football played by all the girls.

Glenree 4 – 2 Drumbar United A

In lovely sunshine Glenree welcomed Drumbar to Glenree for this league game. Some great performances on both teams with Eilis scoring 4 for Glenree with 3 assists from Erin and 1 from Aoife. Drumbar scorers were Ella and Kadi. Thanks to Drumbar for making the long trip and playing such an entertaining game.

Letterkenny Rovers 1 – 5 Illistrin

Group 3

Finn Valley B 2 – 1 Drumkeen United

It was double delight for Finn Valley’s pocket rocket Saoirse McMenamin as she helped herself to both goals as Finn Valley edged out a 2-1 win over Drumkeen on Monday evening. The home side started brightly with Emily McMenamin and Hannah May Browne linking up well. McMenamin went closest to opening the scoring with a well struck shot that just crept wide. It was her namesake Saoirse who gave Finn Valley the lead as she found the net from close range after good work from Cerys Canning. The lead was short-lived however, as Drumkeen struck straight back and equalised just before half time through Sophie Kearns. Both teams availed of water breaks to cope with the heat and the game hotted up even more in the second half as the home team searched for a winner. The Drumkeen rear guard stood firm however and a well struck Chloe Kee shot that hit the post was as close as Finn Valley came. But in the dying minutes the ever-lively Saoirse McMenamin stepped up and finished well from close range from a Hannah May Browne through ball. Well done to both teams for a hard fought and entertaining battle played in good spirit.

Letterkenny Rovers B – Ballyraine Celtic (Ballyraine Win)

Bonagee United – Kildrum Tigers (Bonagee win)

Bonagee hosted Kildrum on a glorious evening in Goose Green. Bonagee got off to a strong start with Leila Coyle scoring their first goal after good work from Kayla Pyper. Kildrum responded with a goal from an energetic Molly Toland ably assisted by Harper Lynch Mahon. Bonagee took control of the game in spite of the constant battling from the young Kildrum girls. Eabha Gribben scored her first goal with a well taken left foot effort after a great pass from Croía Lynne. Well done to Grace Parke who scored the next four goals with great support play from Bonagee. Alice Harvey got on the score sheet with a shot from long range. Eabha Gribben completed the scoring for Bonagee in the closing minutes. This score was not reflective of the battling performance from this young Kildrum side with both goal keepers producing numerous saves throughout the game. Best of luck to Kildrum going forward.

Swilly Rovers – Gweedore United B (Swilly Rovers Win)

Swilly U12 girls got off to a great start and Hollie Sweeney finished smartly after some nice build up. Not to be outdone Kiri Sweeney took advantage of some indecision and added after 10 mins. Kiri grabbed another after the water break after some good work from Swilly midfield. In the second half Gweedore came out fighting and Alannah Quaile kept things safe on more than one occasion, shepherding the ball wide and up the line to our wingers. Hollie Sweeney then struck twice in quick succession to grab her hat trick. Kiri almost got hers also but instead it was Meabh Kennedy again with a driving run and a fine finish. Well done girls.

Drumbar United B 0 – 3 Cappry Rovers B

Under 14

Group 1

Donegal Town B 0 – 5 Lagan Harps

Lagan Harps 2 – 0 Ballyraine

With Lagan reopening our pitch this weekend after drainage work, this was the first game on the new surface. They started really well and played some great football. Sinead Mc Loughlin played some superb passes to Teaghan Doherty, who was on fire in the first half. Lagan got the goal we deserved on twenty-five minutes when Sinead Mc Loughlin drove home a cross from Teaghan. It was appropriate that Lagan’s leader Sinead got the first goal on the new surface. She had showed great loyalty sticking with the club through last year’s struggles. Lily Hamlyn was then denied by a superb save from Aine Mc Daid. Ballyraine then grew into the game with Eadoin Kennedy and Darcie Boyle threatening. However, Lagan’s defence and keeper Ciara Cullen stayed solid with Saoirse Mc Bride outstanding. The second half was evenly balanced, but Lagan began to take control again. Mikaela Breen was just wide with an effort after another attack. Amy Lateef hit the post and was denied by another fine save by Aine Mc Daid. Amy finally got the goal she deserved when she played a good one two with Sinead before finishing well. Jodie Rodgers then had a great strike from distance come back off the crossbar. Ballyraine continued to threaten through Holly Gordon and Grace McGlynn but Lagan held on for the win.

Letterkenny Rovers – Raphoe Town (Letterkenny Rovers Win)

Four goals from Savanna Keys, two from Amy Moore and one Aisling McGinley secured the victory this evening, however Raphoe Town worked to the end as Letterkenny who played game with only 10 players began to tire scored twice through Amanda Caldwell and Katie Melerkey. Faye Casburn Rovers and Brooke Johnston Raphoe where the players of the match.

Group 2

Donegal Town 1 – 5 Convoy Arsenal

Drumbar United 3 – 0 Cappry Rovers

Finn Valley 1 – 1 St.Catherine’s

Group 3

Gweedore United 2 – 1 Keadue Rovers

Gweedore United collected all three points in this local derby after a tough battle between both sides which was played in front of a large crowd at Pobalscoil Gaoth Dobhair. Gweedore went ahead in this game on 10 minutes after the impressive Chloe McFadden took on her opponent on the right wing and shot excellently into the bottom right corner to give the home side the lead. Gweedore with the aid of the breeze continued to push forward to try and add to the score and saw chances from Lilly Rodgers and Lucie Boyd but the Keadue keeper did well on each occasion. In the 25th minute the away side were awarded a penalty but the Keadue player missed the resulting spot kick by sending it over the bar. The score remained 1-0 to Gweedore United at the break. In the second half with the aid of the breeze Keadue tried long ball after long ball over the top to Rabecca Reetstang whos pace was dangerous but Muireann McFadden and Katelyn McFadden dealt excellently with the treat and Nuala Doherty in goals pulled off some outstanding saves to keep the home side in front. Gweedore were dangerous on the break and Chloe McFadden and Lilly Rodgers were a constant threat to the Keadue rear guard. In the 58th minute Neasa Diver laid the ball back to Ciara McFadden who shot from 35 yards which came crashing off the crossbar and was extremely unlucky not to score a goal of the season contender, from this as happens so often in football Keadue broke up the field and after another excellent save from Nuala Doherty the ball fell to Rebecca Reetsang who finished well to make it 1-1. Both teams were not settled for the draw, and it was the home side grabbed the winner in the 65th minute when the ball fell to Lilly Rodgers who shot from 18yards into the top corner to the delight of the large home support. Gweedore held onto the lead from this point and collected a deserved 3 points. A good team performance from Keadue. An excellent team performance from Gweedore United also With Chloe McFadden, Nuala Doherty, Maireann McFadden and Katelyn McFadden excelling on the night. Some brilliant football played by both sides on the night in a tough fair battle. Referee: Seimi Ferry

Group 4

Kilmacrennan Celtic 5 – 2 Illistrin

Kilmacrennan took the points on a fine evening for football in Lurgy Park where they outplayed neighbours Illistrin. Kilmac opened the scoring with a great Grainne Friel shot on eight minutes after a well worked corner. Kilmac doubled the score when Illistrin were under pressure from a Cate Cameron corner and turned the ball into their own net. Cate Cameron then scored a superb third goal for Kilmac directly from a corner a la Katie McCabe. Kilmac started the second half sharpest with Aoibhinn Hegarty sprinting clear to latch on to an excellent ball from Cameron to put the ball past Tayla Doherty in the Illistrin net. Aoise Lenihan scored for Illistrin in the 42nd minute giving her team a welcome boost. Cate Cameron kept Kilmac comfortable scoring an excellent free kick in the 46th minute after Grainne Friel was fouled running through on goal. Aoise Lenihan crafted an excellent goal for Illistrin to keep her team in the match. Cara McGettigan in the Kilmac net made a brilliant save to prevent Lenihan getting her hattrick. The match ended 5-2 with a deserved win for Kilmacrennan who will be pleased with good performances all around the field. Aoise Lenihan and Caoimhe Mc Laughlin worked hard for Illistrin. Referee Sinead Hagan marshalled the game well ensuring the game was played in good spirits.

Mulroy Academy – Swilly Rovers (Mulroy Win)

Scorers were Aisling Duffy ×2 Aoibheann Callaghan ×2 Etaine Sheridan ×2 Cara Gibbons ×1 and an OG for Mulroy and Sophia Gurney with the Swilly goal.

Glenree 1 – 3 Milford United

Under 16

Group 1

Raphoe Town 5 – 1 Lagan Harps

A second half hat-trick from Clíodhna Kelly proved to be the difference as our U16 girls were made to fight all the way for victory by a young Lagan side who played some super football and who went in at the break level. With Sinead McLoughlin and Amy Lateef in fine form and goalkeeper Ciara Cullen making some excellent catches from dangerous Raphoe corners, the Lagan girls gave as good as they got in the first half. Raphoe did take the lead when fine work from Alicia McCullagh set up Nakita Frazell for a fine goal and she might have had another a few minutes later only to be denied by a brilliant save by Ciara Cullen. Lagan were rewarded for their excellent first half performance with a superb equaliser just a few minutes before the break, Ebony Griffin racing clear and smashing her shot into the roof of the net. Raphoe came out in the second half determined to make up for a lacklustre first half display and were soon in front when Daisy Leeper set Clíodhna Kelly away and she curled in a fine goal to make it 2-1. Another long-range strike from Kelly saw Raphoe extend their lead and super work from Molly McGroarty set up Nakita Frazell for her second as the strength in depth began to show for the home team. To their credit Lagan never gave up and continued to play excellent football, ensuring the Raphoe girls had to work to the end, but they couldn’t muster a second goal and in the end Kelly’s third goal put some gloss on the scoreline for the home team who were much better in the second half and happy to secure the points in the end.

Ballyraine 1 v 4 Bonagee United

Ballyraine Under 16 played host to local neighbours Bonagee United at Orchard Grove. Both sides were down to the bare bones with one substitute between them and a number under 14 girls helping out. Bonagee took the lead when Ellen Temple pounced on a loose throw-in from Ballyraine and she slotted the ball past the Ballyraine keeper. Cara Shiels doubled Bonagee’s lead on 19 minutes when a speculative effort found its way past Alisha Montgomery between the Ballyraine sticks. Ballyaine came more into the match in the second half with the wind behind them, but it was Ellen Temple who scored the next goal with a great turn of pace and a fine finish. The home side got one back from Maria McKinney after she picked up a nice through ball from Emer Cassidy and scored past the Bonagee keeper. Ballyraine had several more chances to get back into the game but found their luck missing. Ellen Temple sealed the victory and her hattrick on 74 minutes and Bonagee return to the Dry Arch with 3 points and a well-deserved victory.

Group 3

Keadue Rovers 0 – 1 Illistrin

Keadue Rovers hosted group leaders Illistrin on Wednesday evening at a blustery Central Park. The home side, who were down a number of regulars, won the toss, playing with a stiff breeze but it was Illistrin who settled the quicker, creating good spaces and moves, especially on the left wing but their final delivery was missing. Keadue grew into the game more after that with Elisha Boyle very influential on the right of midfield. A few half chances came the way of Rebecca Reestang and Nicole Gillespie, but keeper Caoimhe McLaughlin was alert on both occasions. The visitors started to play things more directly through the centre and it paid off on twenty eight minutes, when Aoise Lenihan found some space on the edge of the box, turned and shot past the Keadue keeper for a 1 – 0 lead. Keadue came back strongly, pinning Illistrin back but chances were at a premium with the wind not being a big advantage. In the second half, Keadue, playing against the wind, proved much more effective and some good play on both wings by Elisha Boyle and Maria McGee, kept the Illistrin defence
on their toes. The home side dominated possession and for Illistrin, their best outlet was the very impressive right winger Sophie McLaughlin, who as the half went on, won more and more ball on the right side and was very close to doubling their lead in the last ten minutes. All the while, the home side kept probing and probing, getting some very good possession but the final ball was just frustratingly short. Maria McGee, the youngest of the Keadue panel gave Keadue some outlet up front and a further couple of shots from Nicole Gillespie and Aoibheann McCann were dealt with by Caoimhe McLaughlin and Illistrin hung on for a win. It was a really good contest and the large points difference between the sides was
certainly not evident based on this encounter. Best for Illistrin were Sophie McLaughlin, Caoimhe McLaughlin, Aoise Lenihan and Maeve Brady, while impressive for Keadue were Elisha Boyle, Sarah Harley, Aoibheann McCann and Shauna Molloy. Referee: Con McLaughlin.

Milford United 1 – 0 Gweedore United

In a must win game for Milford they just about edged past a resilient Gweedore team. With a strong wind at their back Milford put Gweedore on the back foot from the off. The first real chance of the game came after 15 minutes when Erin Nelis got in behind the Gweedore defence and crossed to Anna Giles who controlled it but couldn’t keep her shot on target. Gweedore were lightening quick on the counterattack with Lily Rodger’s always dangerous. Both defences were at their best resulting in neither keeper being tested. The second half it was Gweedore who went for it with the wind at their backs. Milford found it hard to break out and Gweedore had a number of dangerous corners which only needed a touch to end up in the net. A breakaway from Milford caught Gweedore and after a defensive mistake Erin Nelis finished from close range. Gweedore had a lot of the play for the last twenty minutes but failed to create any clear-cut chances with Amy Hosford and Leanne Gordon excellent in defence. Really good game between two evenly matched teams with a mention for the excellent standard of referee.

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

It’s been revealed that staff at Uisce Eireann received bonuses of over €10 million in 2023.

The water utilities agency paid out €10.57 million in total bonuses to its staff of 1,631 employees.

That bonus total is up over €1 million on the 2022 bonus total.

Bonuses for employees are performance-related according to the company, with the average bonus paid out reaching over €6,000.

Uisce Eireann’s annual report for 2023 also shows the number of employees earning over €100,000 per year at the state-owned company increased.

A total of 344 Uisce Eireann employees earn over €100,000 – that’s 73 more than reported by the company the previous year.

The post National: Over €10 million in bonuses paid to Uisce Eireann staff last year appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to an assault that took place in Buncrana at the start of June.

Gardaí say the alleged assault took place at approximately 3:30am on Sunday the 2nd of June, at Maginn Avenue in the town.

CCTV footage has already been provided to Gardaí, but they are eager to speak with a number of witnesses to the assault who were in the area at that time.

Anyone who has information relating to the incident have been asked to come forward to Gardaí at Buncrana Garda Station.

An appeal has also been made for any road users who were travelling in the Maginn Avenue area on that night and has dash cam footage to come forward and make it available.

Anyone with relevant information may contact Buncrana Garda Station on 074 93 20 540, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

The post Gardaí renew appeals for information after Buncrana assault appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The funeral mass of much-liked former RTÉ journalist Tommie Gorman took place in Ransboro, County Sligo today.

Gorman enjoyed a career that spanned over four decades, and also gained national prominence not only for his dedicated reporting in a number of roles, but also for his public battle with cancer which he documented for over 30 years.

Among the many dignitaries attending his funeral today were An Taoiseach Simon Harris and First Minister Michelle O’Neill.

There were many political figures from the North attending, as Tommie was the long-time Northern editor at RTÉ – the presence of former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and DUP leader Arlene Foster proof of that.

Many of his former RTÉ colleagues were also in attendance.

In a fitting tribute, Tommie’s beloved Sligo Rovers pulled off a 2-0 victory over Shamrock Rovers at the Showgrounds last night – hours before he made his final trip to the ground as part of the funeral procession today.

During the funeral service, Chief Celebrant Reverand Christopher McCann told the congregation of his close relationship with Mr Gorman over the years, and how Mr Gorman always had “never-ending” questions for him – his journalistic qualities shining through far past the television screen.

“History will be pleased with the part that Tommie Gorman played.”

The post Funeral takes place of respected RTÉ journalist Tommie Gorman appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Community fundraisers continue this July in support of Donegal girl TJ McDaid’s wish to walk.

Three-year-old TJ has arrived back home to Ireland this week after another period of treatment in Budapest.

Born with severe spina bifida meningocele, TJ has been undergoing specialist physiotherapy treatment for the past year in order to walk.

TJ made more great progress over the past three weeks in Hungary, according to her mum Claire from Drumkeen.

“We are so proud of her after three weeks of hard work,” said Claire.

“TJ still needs a lot of intense therapy and we will return to Budapest in 12 weeks’ time.

“We would like to thank everyone for their continued support, TJ wouldn’t be doing what she is doing today without all the support at home.”

Each medical trip to the Peto Institute costs €12,000 on average, so fundraising is a priority to ensure TJ’s treatment can continue.

Plans are well underway for a Jumble Sale in aid of TJ’s Wish to Talk on 6th and 7th July (Saturday-Sunday) at St Patrick’s Hall Drumkeen (F93D726).

Come along to bag some bargains, enjoy family fun face-painting and mascots, or relax with some tea and coffee!  Bring the kids along on Saturday 6th July from 4.30-5.30pm to meet Mr TJ and enjoy some sweet treats!

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It was an eventful and emotional final week for the sixth class pupils at Scoil Mhuire, Creeslough.

They headed off to Dublin and managed to squeeze in visits to Áras an Uachtaráin, Dáil Éireann and Croke Park.

They have also now completed their primary education and attended their farewell Mass of thanksgiving on Friday last. They are pictured with their class teacher Ms Claire Gallagher (main pic).

Fr John Joe Duffy showing off his Gaelic skills outside Croke Park.

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The Tunney family of Letterkenny has announced a fitting tribute to their late father, the legendary musician Paddy Tunney.

To celebrate the relaunch of their father’s memoir, the Tunneys will host a special concert taking a journey through songs and stories from the The Stone Fiddle: My Way to Traditional Song.

The family will perform songs, poems and extracts from the book at a unique performance in the Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny on Wednesday July 10th at 8pm.

The event which is being run in association with the Regional Cultural Centre and Ceol na Coille, will feature two generations of the family who will be joined by special guests Mairead Mooney, Lillis O Laoire, Rita Gallagher, Shauna Mc Geehan (nee Mullen) and Michael Carey. 

Paddy Tunney (1921–2002) was a traditional singer, poet, writer, raconteur, lilter and songwriter, often affectionately known as the ‘Man of Songs’. Originally from Fermanagh, he lived and worked most of his life in Letterkenny.

The late Paddy Tunney

Paddy was heavily involved in the cultural and sporting life of Letterkenny and was involved in the set up of the local Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann along with Hughie Mc Govern back in 1957, he was involved in the International Folk Festival and the Letterkenny Feis in the 1960s and 70s and was an active member of St Eunan’s GAA in the 1970s.

He married Julia Bradley who hailed from Manorcunningham and they had six children – Paddy, Cathal, Brigid, Michael, Maura and John.

Commenting on the event, Michael Tunney, retired Head of Enterprise in LEO Donegal, said “We are excited about the upcoming event in the Regional Cultural Centre. Our father instilled an interest in traditional singing in us through osmosis – he was always singing and telling stories. Then he wrote the Stone Fiddle and we hope that through the new edition and the performances that we are doing, that we can create further awareness of his singing, songs and legacy. And we are having some fun at the same time”.

Originally published in 1979, The Stone Fiddle: My Way to Traditional Song is a dazzling evocation of Ireland in the first half of the 20th century, particularly the Donegal-Fermanagh hill country above Lough Erne – its political undercurrents, its people, culture, folklore and superstition. It is the perfect book for fans of Irish traditional singing and those looking to expand their own singing repertoire.

Coming from a wonderfully rich singing tradition, spanning back to the decades before the Great Famine, Paddy Tunney’s song repertoire has few rivals. The Stone Fiddle features over 60 of these songs and Paddy, in his distinct and direct authorial voice, tells a tale for them all. With an uncanny knack for weaving a riveting yarn, Paddy brings these tales to life in lyrical detail and readers will feel as if they are right next to him at the hearth all along the way. 

He was renowned for his rendition of ‘big songs’ such as ‘Mountain streams Where the Moorcock Crows’, ‘Craigie Hill’, ‘The Green Fields of Canada’ and ‘Moorlough Mary’.

With the original foreword by Irish author and broadcaster Benedict Kiely and a new introduction from Paddy’s son, Dr John Tunney, The Stone Fiddle will enable a new generation of traditional folk singers to discover the oral sources of such gems as: ‘As I Roved Out’, ‘The Mountain Streams Where the Moorcocks Crow’, ‘The Rollicking Boys Around Tandragee’ and even some songs that have never been recorded. This new edition also features several additions intended to enrich the reader’s experience, including photographs, maps and a full index. 

Tickets costing €10 are available from www.tunneysongtraditiontrust.com and https://restringingthestonefiddle.eventbrite.ie 

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Donegal Daily’s Pet Column is brought to you by veterinary nurse Michelle Kelly in association with Gary’s Pet World, Letterkenny Retail Park.

For all your pet food, health, accessories and toy needs, call instore or visit www.petworld.ie. Free shipping on orders over €29

Dog training can be daunting if you don’t know where to start. Your dog doesn’t have to be a puppy to teach them basic obedience but to have a well rounded dog it takes a lot of work, effort and dedication. (You CAN teach an old dog new tricks)

Obedience training doesn’t have to be difficult or fancy. Teaching the basics, such as sit, stay, lie down etc. and them being able to do these at home and in public, is more than enough. It keeps the dog safe and gives you confidence that you have proper control of your dog.

How to teach obedience … ditch the bowl

You don’t need fancy treats to teach your dog new things. Simply weighing out their daily meal and using it as their reward (hand feeding) ensures they get their full meal for the day and prevents having to fork out for loads of different treats. (It also helps to prevent weight gain since they are getting their correct calories for the day).

Use positive reinforcement when your dog does something you want them to repeat. Once they realise they are getting rewarded for good behaviour they’re more likely to repeat it.

Why teach obedience

By positively reinforcing good behaviour you are gently encouraging your dog to be well mannered.

Every time you teach your dog new tricks you are building your bond and allowing your dog to trust you more and more.

You are giving your dog plenty of mental stimulation. They don’t need loads of big long walks everyday in order to tire them out. Simply taking the time to teach your dog a new trick each day for 10-20 minutes will tire them out as much as an hour walk. (That doesn’t mean you don’t have to walk them, simply use their walk as a training session too)

Find dog collars and leads at www.petworld.ie

What to start with

The most basic commands are sometimes overlooked when it comes to training dogs but in order to have a well behaved dog in all situations they need to be solid.

1. Start with their name (obvious but sometimes forgotten about) and teaching how to sit and lie down.
2. Then move on to stay.
3. You can then make it more difficult by moving away while they hold a sit or down-stay.
4. Threshold is tough but very important especially if you live near busy roads. This involves you teaching them to wait for a command before crossing a boundary such as a doorway or gate (you’ll thank me later). Build up distractions so that no matter what is across that boundary they do not move until they are told. (Keep a long lead on them for this if your dog is likely to run, tether them to something solid in the beginning so if they do run away they can’t get far)
5. Recall – extremely important because if you don’t have a solid recall your dog is at risk of getting lost, injured or worse. If you don’t have a solid recall in busy places the safest thing is to have a 10-20m long line attached to their collar or harness if you want your dog to have some freedom in open spaces.
6. Walking nicely on a lead can be difficult to train especially in a strong, large dog. Time and patience are your main requirements here.
7. Drop – dogs sometimes steal things they shouldn’t have so teaching the ‘drop it’ command prevents a trip to the vets to make them sick or needing surgery to remove household items. It can be very dangerous and life threatening. (It can also be quite embarrassing for the owner, you can only imagine what I’ve seen removed from a dog’s intestines)
8. Settle – if you want to bring your dog along with you to different Dog friendly places, it would be ideal to teach them how to settle in busy places. This can be done by exposing them to these places from a young age and bringing plenty of food as a reward. The idea is for them to ignore everything that is going on and just chill out.

Shop HALTI Training Leads at Gary’s Pet World Letterkenny

Remember

Have fun with their training and expect that there will be bad days but there will be plenty of good days too.

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Nobody is 100% perfect so we can’t expect our dogs to be.

Patience is one of the main requirements when obedience training because it won’t happen overnight. It might take weeks or months to perfect what seems like the most simple command.

If you struggle with any of these at all, reach out to local dog trainers, they are experts in the field and can be the best investment you make for your dog and yourself.

If you put in the effort in from the beginning then you will reap the rewards eventually.

Michelle Kelly qualified with a BSc Honours in Veterinary Nursing from LYIT. She works full-time in a clinic in Derry. She is the proud owner of a labrador named Nala, who goes everywhere with her, even to work. 

As a dog owner in the North West, Michelle says she sees a lot of misunderstanding around owning a pet. With her first hand experience in a veterinary practice, she wants to give up-to-date facts and information to pet owners and to be a person people can turn to for help and advice, especially in the local area of Donegal.

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Two anglers had to be rescued yesterday evening after their boat was struck by a freak wave.

The alarm was raised just off Carryblagh, when the two anglers making their way back from a day’s fishing were struck unexpectedly by the violent wave, injuring one of the men.

Malin Head Coast Guard Centre deployed a unit from the Lough Swilly RNLI, whose Atlantic inshore lifeboat crew quickly reached the scene and successfully removed both men from their vessel.

The injured man was transferred to another lifeboat to receive first aid and treatment, before being transferred by boat to an awaiting ambulance at Buncrana Pier.

In a statement, Lough Swilly RNLI press officer Joe Joyce paid tribute to the crew this week.

“This has been a busy few days for our station. We train for this kind of scenario all year and I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers for the effort they have put in this week.”

“Remember if you’re in difficulty in or on the water, or see someone in trouble, please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”

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Donegal athlete Sommer Lecky claimed the win in the women’s high jump at the national championships yesterday.

Representing Finn Valley AC, she jumped a brilliant 1.76 metres to take the crown in Dublin.

It marks the fourth national championship of her career, the 24 year old retaining her title from last year in challenging jumping conditions.

There were further medals for Finn Valley athletes yesterday also, James Kelly in the shotput and Joseph Gillespie in the triple jump both taking silver medals.

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Donegal Jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle recorded strong results at the Curragh yesterday, including a race win.

He took the Joseph O’Brien trained 4/7 favourite Galen to the win in the 4:40pm, taking the lead early and charging to the victory.

Browne McMonagle also claimed a second place finish earlier in the day, barely missing out on the win riding 9/1 shot Trustyourinstinct, also for Joseph O’Brien.

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Donegal could be set for a semi-final clash with Galway in the All-Ireland Championship if they can defeat Louth today.

After their stunning victory over Dublin yesterday, Galway sealed their spot in the semi-finals along with Donegal’s Ulster rivals Armagh.

Today’s games see Donegal take on a tough Louth side, and Kerry and Derry set to clash in a marquee quarter-final matchup.

If Donegal win, regardless of the outcome of the Derry and Kerry match, they would face Galway thanks to a regulation in the GAA’s rulebooks.

Normally a draw would take place to decide the semi-final matches, but that is subject to avoiding repeat matchups from earlier in the Championship.

A Donegal win would see them face Galway, no matter the outcome as if Kerry qualify as well, Armagh having already played Donegal and Galway means they will get matched up against the Kingdom.

If Derry win alongside Donegal today, the only possible game in the final four that would not already have happened earlier in the Championship involving the four sides would be Donegal v Galway.

However, if Louth can spring an upset much like Galway did yesterday, a draw would be required to decide the semi-final games.

Throw-in for Donegal’s game against Louth at Croke Park this afternoon is at 1:15pm, with Derry v Kerry throwing in at 3:15pm.

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The search for a missing hiker has intensified this afternoon in County Kerry.

46-year-old Sebastian Jaworski has been missing for a week, after he was last seen near the peak of Cnoc Bhréanainn.

The alarm was raised after he failed to show up to his job on Monday.

Emergency services and search crews have been working hard to locate him, but their efforts have been harmed by poor weather conditions in the area.

However as conditions have improved today, volunteers have joined the search effort in hopes of finding Sebastian.

Read more on this story here.

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Donegal 1-23 v 0-18 Louth

Donegal are through to the Semi-Finals of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship, but it wasn’t a walk in the park despite the comfortable scoreline at full-time.

In their first ever Quarter-Final appearance, Louth gave a good account of themselves in the first half as they proved difficult to break down at times.

Donegal went into half-time up three points, 0-11 to 0-08 – and Louth would continue to hang around in the game.

Donegal led by 7 points going into the final 20 minutes, but a run of three Louth scores in a row would leave Donegal fans in the stands feeling tense as the game approached its end.

However Donegal found the back of the Louth net when Eoghan Ban Gallagher slotted home from a fluid Donegal attacking move in the 59th minute, giving them much-needed breathing room.

That goal gave Donegal the security they needed as they finished strongly to set up a Semi-Final clash with Galway.

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