Some 102 motorists in Donegal failed to turn up for their scheduled driving tests between January and July this year, it has been revealed.

The no-show drivers lost out on €8,670 in fees to the RSA.

The Irish Independent reports that 6,441 motorists across Ireland did not attend scheduled driving tests in 2023, despite having paid €85 to the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

This year, the monthly average has risen to 692 no-show tests.

RSA figures show that Donegal motorists could wait until early 2025 to be invited to book their car driving tests at any of the local centres.

Read more: https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/level-of-driving-test-no-shows-a-huge-road-safety-concern-as-deaths-rise/a320014149.html

The post More than 100 driving test no-shows in Donegal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Planning permission is being sought to turn a well-known Donegal Town pub into a cafe and shop.

The Scotsman’s Bar on Bridge Street, which has been closed since the pandemic, is set to get a new lease of life under plans submitted to Donegal County Council.

Applicant Michael John Gavigan, who purchased the building recently, is seeking to convert the ground floor from a bar and lounge to a retail shop and coffee shop.

The changes include adding skylights and roof lights, and creating an external terrace to the exciting terraced property, which is a protected structure.

Additionally, the first and second floors will be converted into two one-bedroom apartments. A flat-roof extension will be built to provide a stairwell and balconies for the apartments. The building’s exterior will be modified, with a new shopfront and entrance, and other site development works will be carried out.

As part of the application, Paul Doherty Architects said: “This building formerly the Scotsman’s Bar, has been vacant since the Covid 19 closures and has remained closed since, the existing shopfront onto Bridge Street has deteriorated very badly and is presenting a very unsightly and unpleasant elevation onto the public realm in the centre of Donegal Town.

They added: “The proposal to alter and refurbish this vacant building will bring new life to this town centre building and is in accordance with the proper planning and development of the area.”

The post Proposal for Donegal pub to switch from beers to brews appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Is comhlacht pobal bhunaithe é Togra Fiontar & Cultúr Uladh Cuideachta faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta, a fhorbraíonn cúrsaí sóisialta, cultúrtha, teanga, oideachais agus eacnamaíochta i gceantair Mhachaire Rabhartaigh.

Faoi láthair tá an Comhlacht ag earcú: 

Bainisteoir (Post Lánaimseartha) 

Taithí / Scileanna Riachtanacha:

• Ard scileanna Gaeilge idir labhartha agus scríofa
• Ard scileanna cumarsáide agus idirphearsanta idir labhartha agus scríofa
• Taithí bainistíochta foirne
• Ard Scileanna cuntasaíochta/plé le buiséid/párolla
• Tionscnaimh a chomhordú agus a bhainistiú 
• Taithí oibre i bhforbairt pobail
• Taithí ag plé le heagraíochtaí áitiúla pobail agus Stáit  
• Ceadúnas tiomána reatha agus mód iompair

Dualgais:

• Freagra a ghlacadh de gach gné de smachtú airgeadais, riarachán, comhfhreagras agus fiosrúcháin an chomhlacht
• Bainistiú a dhéanamh ar Ionad Mhachaire Rabhartaigh, Teach Mhicí Mhic Gabhainn, An ionad súgartha agus an Gairdín Pobail.
• Comhoibriú agus ceangal le grúpaí pobail, eagrais reachtúil agus eagrais stáit
• Pleanáil Forbairt agus comhoibriú a dhéanamh ar chlár bhliantúil imeachtaí sóisialta, oideachas, teanga, cultúrtha agus chaitheamh aimsire
• Tuairisc mhíosúil a thabhairt don choiste stiúrtha
• Solúbthacht ó thaobh uaireanta oibre

Beidh an té a cheapfar sa phost lonnaithe in Ionad Mhachaire Rabhartaigh. Chun cur síos ar an bpost seol teachtaireacht chuig: tografiontar@gmail.com 

Tá an post seo á mhaoiniú ag ‘Pobal’ trí an Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobal  

Iarratais le CV agus litir chlúdach roimh 5:00i.n. Dé hAoine an 4ú Deireadh Fómhair chuig: An Chathaoirleach, Togra Fiontar & Cultúr Uladh CTR, Ionad Mhachaire Rabhartaigh, Gort a’ Choirce, Leitir Ceanainn, Co. Dhún na nGall, F92 YF90.  Nó trí r-phost a sheoladh chuig:  tografiontar@gmail.com

The post Folúntas: Bainisteoir in Ionad Mhachaire Rabhartaigh appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Killybegs Seafoods is a seafood processing company based in Killybegs, Co. Donegal.

The company is currently seeking to hire a front office staff member on a permanent basis.

Application deadline: Friday 27th September.

Role includes the following duties:

• Export documentation and invoicing;
• Payroll;
• Banking;
• Monthly accounts;
• Liaising with clients and suppliers;
• Office administration;
• Reporting directly to management;

Qualifications & Requirements:

• 5 years+ office experience or Accounting Technician, proficient in Microsoft Office/Outlook and Payroll.

Skills:

• Competent and efficient.
• A good communicator with multi-tasking skills.
• Able to organise own workload and establish priorities.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Competitive Salary.

Please email John Mc Guinness at jmg@killybegsseafoods.com with your CV.

The post Job Vacancy: Office Administration / Accounting Technician opportunity in Killybegs appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Featured Photo: Malin Head, Chris Hill Photographic via Tourism Ireland

The Irish government has announced €7.6m for a cross-border project to bring together the Wild Atlantic Way/Causeway Coastal Route brands.

The funding will provide marketing initiatives for the iconic touring routes and capital investment for businesses and amenities in Donegal, Sligo and parts of Leitrim on the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as parts of Derry, Strabane and Antrim along the Causeway Coastal Route.

The Coast to Coast capital investment fund, announced in July, is jointly administered by the three tourism agencies, Tourism Northern Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland. It is worth €3m/£2.5m to enhance interpretation at existing operating visitor attractions and experiences along the north of the Wild Atlantic Way and along the Causeway Coastal Route.

There has been a very strong response to the expression of interest phase in August and the call applications will open in the coming weeks, with detail published on the websites of the three agencies.

Taoiseach Simon Harris announced the funding from the Shared Island Fund during a visit to Derry today. He said: “This will undoubtedly create more opportunities for tourists from both home and abroad to experience all that Derry and the amazing North West and Northern coast regions have to offer, and I look forward to seeing the outputs of this impactful project.”

The post Donegal to reap benefits of €7.6m Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway Coast collaboration appeared first on Donegal Daily.

People with disabilities now get the chance to enjoy the thrills of surfing in Donegal thanks to a novel addition at Liquid Therapy.

The South Donegal-based social enterprise is breaking new ground with Ireland’s first seated surfboard.

The board is a safe and supportive way for those with mobility challenges or complex physical needs to engage with the ocean and ride waves. With its unique design, the surfboard offers stability and comfort, enabling users to enjoy the experience and joy of surfing while seated.

The Seated Surfboard will be used officially for the first time in Ireland at the Liquid Therapy OPEN, on the 22nd of September. This is Liquid Therapy’s end of season community volunteer event, held every year at Rossnowlagh Beach in Donegal. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the seated surfboard in action and participate in surfing sessions. Find out more here on www.eventbrite.ie

Liquid Therapy’s new service is in collaboration with Donegal Sports Partnership, with funding from Sport Ireland via Dormant Accounts Funding.

Service user Conor McCormick was one of the first to experience the joy of surfing on the board. His mother Deirdre said: “Conor absolutely loved it. He came alive in the water. I just can’t explain what a great experience it was.”

Thérèse Laverty, Sports Inclusion Lead with Donegal Sports Partnership, commented, “It is no surprise that Liquid Therapy continues to push boundaries. This unique board will offer a life-changing opportunity for those with disabilities to experience the freedom and connection with nature that surfing brings. The board, which is custom-made to accommodate individuals with physical disabilities, marks a significant step towards making surfing accessible to all in Donegal. The exciting development reaffirms Liquid Therapy’s commitment to inclusion and innovation in the world of adaptive surfing.”

The collaboration with Donegal Sports Partnership and Sport Ireland has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Together, we aim to create opportunities for individuals with additional needs to participate in surfing, fostering a sense of community and empowerment through sport.

“We are incredibly proud to introduce this first-of-its-kind surfboard to Ireland, our mission has always been to promote inclusivity in sport, and this launch represents a significant step forward in making surfing accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities” said Tom Losey, Manager and Founder, Liquid Therapy.

“Liquid Therapy is excited to share this milestone in Irish adaptive sports and continue to work with its partners to continue to break down barriers to participation in sport and society,” Tom said.

The post Ireland’s first seated surfboard catches waves in Donegal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Jobs: Mechanical Contractors (Plumbing, Heating and Ventilation)

Location: Donegal Area

Are you a skilled and experienced site worker looking for a new challenge? A Donegal-based company is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team of contractors specialising in plumbing, heating, and ventilation work.
If you are interested in joining the team or wish to find out more, please contact Stephen at 0877607117.

The post Job Vacancies: Donegal company seeks experienced site workers appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Former MEP Marian Harkin has announced she will stand as a candidate in the next general election in Donegal South.

Ms Harkin has been a Dail Deputy for the past four years representing for Sligo, Leitrim and south Donegal.

But Ms Harkin, a native of Sligo, said she had a special place in her heart for Donegal and wants to continue to represent the people including those in Donegal south.

As an MEP, she said she understood that the North-West is still a region in need of help.

The post Former MEP Marian Harkin to stand in Donegal South appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Inishowen Engineering at Shandrum, Buncrana are looking for a highly motivated HR generalist to support management and implement our company plans on the continued development of the company.   

We are offering this position on a contract basis for two consecutive days per week (onsite 16 hrs/wk).

The successful candidate will be required to be pro-active and driven to deliver change and operate a high-quality HR service.

You will have proven experience in the management of employee relations throughout the employee life cycle, an excellent knowledge of employment law, recruitment & onboarding, employee engagement, performance management, training & development, continual learning, health & safety, HR compliance management, policy development and HRIS management. You will be able to provide thorough HR advice to the management team.

Skills:

• CIPD qualified 
• Employee Relations Management 
• Employment Law 
• Excellent Interpersonal & Communication Skills 
• Disciplinaries/Grievances Experience

Closing Date for Applications is Fri. 11th of Oct 2024.

Please email CV or letter of interest (stating the role you are applying for) to info@inisheng.com or post CV to HR Dept, Shandrum, Drumfries, Clonmany, Co. Donegal, F93 NY98    

The post Job Vacancy: Inishowen Engineering recruiting Human Resources Co-Ordinator appeared first on Donegal Daily.

If you ever wondered about the stories behind the shopfronts and names of Donegal’s mix of shops, then wonder no more.

As part of Culture Night, the County Donegal Heritage Office, Culture Division, Donegal County Council will be hosting a short talk on historic shopfronts by award-winning architect Orla Murphy.

And to set the scene, the talk will take place in Ernest Speer’s shop, Main Street, Letterkenny on Friday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m.

“Taking Ernest Speer’s beautiful shop front as an example, this event entitled ‘Ampersands & Mullions’ will explore some of the elements of shop fronts and signage that give our towns their unique character and distinctiveness” explained Orla Murphy, UCD Assistant Professor of Architecture.

“From colours, proportion, material, typography and craftsmanship, our shop fronts represent the local culture, stories and memory of place.  Be sure to share your own story of your favourite shop fronts in Letterkenny with us at the event.”

Orla Murphy is a part-time Assistant Professor and Deputy Co-Head of the School of Architecture Planning and Environmental Policy, University College Dublin and Co-Director of the UCD Centre for Irish Towns.

Her research and practice focuses on Irish towns, housing and participatory design, especially in the context of climate resilience and a just low carbon transition.  She was lead applicant and principal investigator on ‘Ripple: Making Connections between Water and Climate Change in our Towns’ that won one of 12 Jury Awards out of over 1,450 entries at the New European Bauhaus 2023 Awards.

A Design Studio tutor with over twenty years’ experience, she was awarded the UCD Teaching and Learning Excellence Award in 2023.  An advocate of public engagement with architecture, Orla was co-presenter of the RTÉ documentary series ‘Building Ireland’ and was Co-Curator of ‘Free Market’, the Irish Pavilion at the 16th International Biennale Architettura in Venice in 2018, which toured Ireland in 2019.

“Traditional shopfronts, both individually and collectively, have a major impact on the overall character, quality and attractiveness of place” said Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer.

“The County Donegal Heritage Office has produced a free booklet on ‘Donegal Traditional Shop Fronts & Signage’ based on research undertaken by Orla Murphy.  The booklet draws upon best practice and encourages appropriate, sensitive and informed interventions in relation to our traditional shopfronts, vernacular signage and historical streetscapes.

“New shopfronts can also learn from existing traditional shopfront character to inform and guide future developments.  The Donegal Traditional Shop Fronts & Signage Booklet will provide advice and guidance on best conservation practice to business owners, community groups and planners.  The booklet will help to raise awareness of the importance of traditional shopfronts.”

Free copies of the Donegal Traditional Shop Fronts & Signage booklet commissioned as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan will be available at the event and from the County Donegal Heritage Office on (074) 916 3824.

Photo 1 caption:

Ernest Speer’s shop on Lower Main Street in Letterkenny is a fine example of a nineteenth-century Protected Structure that makes an important contribution to the streetscape and sense of place of the town.  The retention and maintenance of key landmark buildings by their owners is one of the greatest expressions of civic pride in our towns and villages.

Photo 2 caption:

Cover of the ‘Donegal Shop Fronts & Signage’ booklet by architect Orla Murphy that was commissioned as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan.

The post Find out the fascinating stories behind Donegal’s shopfronts appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A local paddler had a memorable encounter with a tired and timid seal at the weekend.

Chris McGaughey was having a coffee on Cruit Island pier when he spotted a quiet companion by his side.

Chris, who hadn’t noticed her at first, remained calm and captured a sweet video of his encounter.

Perhaps the seal was seeking a caffeine perk-up too!

“I didn’t even see her until I sat down,” Chris tells Donegal Daily.

“I was scouting out the kayak across to Owey.

“The rough seas had left her exhausted, so I rang Seal Rescue Ireland and they got her checked out. After a few hours she went on her way.”

Chris, a passionate explorer of Donegal’s natural beauty, has been documenting his adventures on Instagram under the handle @wildatlanticwaybootandpaddle. You can follow him for tips and insights for those seeking to discover Donegal’s best lakes, mountains, and coastal landscapes.

The post Watch: Sleepy seal shares a coffee break with Cruit island paddler appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The people of Tory island will be celebrated in a new series of TG4’s award-winning ‘Bailte’ series this month.

The programme explores the resilience of Ireland’s rural communities and reveals the deep connection people have with their land.

In episode three, which airs on Thursday 19th September, presenter Síle Nic Chonaonaigh heads to Toraigh Ireland’s most northerly inhabited island. As it’s situated over nine miles from Donegal’s northwest coast, it’s certainly the remotest area Síle has visited so far. 

Amongst those who Síle meets during this programme is Anton Meenan, who regales Síle with tales from the Bronze Age.

Marjorie Carroll of the Comharchumman on Tory tells Síle about the islanders’ plans for the future.

Plus, Willie Ghráinne Ó Dubhgáin, the captain of the Tor Dearg, takes her on a boat trip around the island’s stunning Atlantic coastline.

Bailte is a celebration of the hard-working and vibrant communities who are doing their very best to ensure their own community is more than just a mere layby and a pretty stop-off along the Wild Atlantic Way. With rural Ireland as a spectacular backdrop, ‘Bailte’ provides a distinctive and honest portrayal of life in Ireland today.

Among the other townlands visited in this series, beginning on 5th September, are Leitir Ard and An Bóthar Buí in Galway, Baile na nGall in Waterford, and Clochán Bréanainn on the Dingle Peninsula.

The post Tory community featuring in new TV series this Thursday appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A young man has been charged with the murder of his mother in East Belfast.

Nathan Simpson, aged 21, of Castlereagh Road appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court today.

The body of 43-year-old Rachel Simpson was discovered in a garage beside a property in the Castlereagh Road area on Friday night.

Her son, Nathan Simpson, was arrested at the scene.

Rachel Simpson is the 23rd woman to be killed in Northern Ireland since 2020. She is the third woman murdered in Northern Ireland within the past four weeks.

The stark figures were shared by Women’s Aid NI in a tribute to the victim.

“Women’s Aid NI wish to express our sincerest condolences to the loved ones of Rachel Simpson following the horrific news of her murder in east Belfast. Please know our thoughts are with you all at this incredibly difficult time.”

The charity called for anyone with any information to contact the PSNI or Crimestoppers.

The post Man charged with murdering his mother in Belfast appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Photo : LLSR, No 4 @ Buncrana,  Ken Nunn Collection

A man who once worked on the Londonderry and Lough Swilly Railway (L&LSR) has started a search to hear from former colleagues.

Francis Eugene Campbell, a native of Burt, is now living in England. Aged 96, Francis recalls many stories and names from his time on the railways.

His son, Noel Campbell, is assisting him with his mission to reconnect with anyone who may still be alive from that era.

Contacting the Donegal Railway Heritage Museum, Noel asked: “My parents were born in Donegal close to Derry City and Buncrana and although my Mother died a few years ago my father lives on at the age of 96 in England.

“He would be interested to hear if or from anyone who may be still alive who worked with him on the Loch (sic) Swilly Railway until its closure in 1953. His name is Francis Eugene Campbell and was previously from Burt, Donegal on the main road between Letterkenny and Derry.

“He has many stories to tell and recalls many names of the people who worked there at that time. I can forward the names of people he worked with if that would help any further.

“If anyone has any information I would be grateful to receive it.”

If you can help, please contact the Donegal Railway Heritage Museum at this link.

The post Former Donegal railway worker (96) seeks to reconnect with old friends appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A Garda Sergeant has said there may be further charges arising out of an incident in which mass-goers were forced to remain inside a Co Donegal church after a huge row broke out outside.

A total of five men have been charged in connection with the brawl which took place outside the Church of the Irish Martyrs in Letterkenny on August 18th last.

The men, from two different families, were charged with a number of offences including public order and possession of offensive weapons.

Their cases had been adjourned to Letterkenny District Court to await directions in the case from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

All five men were excused from attending court in the interest of safety following a request from their solicitors Mr Patsy Gallagher and mr Frank Dorrian.

The five include Michael Reilly Junior, of Kishogue Park, Lucan in Dublin (31),  Michael Reilly Senior, of Tailteann Drive, Windtown, Navan in Co Meath (56),  Thomas Reilly, of Tailteann Drive, Windtown, Navan, Co Meath (21), John Paul Reilly, of Tailteann Drive, Windtown, Navan in Co Meath (29) and Michael McDonagh, of the Big Isle in Letterkenny, (34).

Parish Priest Fr Kieran Harkin and the Church of Irish Martyrs.

The court was previously told that a slash hook, kitchen knives and garden saws had been recovered by Gardai who arrived at the scene of the row.

As part of their bail conditions , the four members of the Reilly family from County Meath and Dublin had been told to stay out of Co Donegal.

Michael Reilly Junior is charged with threatening and abusive behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace and also had an article in his possession, namely a small axe and two sharp kitchen knives.

Michael Reilly Senior is also with threatening and abusive behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace as well as possession of an article namely a slash-hook with intention to cause injury or intimidate.

Thomas Reilly is charged with threatening and abusive behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace and that he had in his possession a foldable garden saw with intention to cause injury or intimidate.

John Paul Reilly is charged with threatening and abusive behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace and that he had in his possession a foldable garden saw with intention to cause injury or intimidate.

Michael McDonagh is charged with is charged with threatening and abusive behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace.

Garda Sergeant Jim Collins told the court that this was a substantive matter and that some of the charges will require directions from the DPP.

He added “This is quite a large investigation and there may be further charges.”

He asked that the case be put back until January 20th, 2025 to allow for books of evidence to be served in the various cases.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham agreed and the cases were adjourned.

The post Further charges possible following huge row outside Letterkenny church appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Inishowen Engineering require the following vacancies to be filled at its Manufacturing facility at Shandrum, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 NY98: www.inisheng.com

Inishowen Engineering Finishing requires the following positions to be filled:

CNC Milling & Turning Machinists

Successful applicants will be working in our modern machining department that supports our metal fabrication manufacturing process. The successful applicant will be working with CNC equipment that includes  DMG Mori, Doosan , AWEA, HAAS and Mori Seiki CNC Milling & Turning Centres.

Industrial Wet Spray-Painting Operatives

Applicants must have experience in all processes associated with Wet Spray-painting, minimum 3 years’ experience in similar working environment. Experience in spraying plant and machinery will be beneficial. 

Manual Shot Blasting Operatives

Applicants must have experience in Manual Shot-blasting and/or Sandblasting, minimum 3 years’ experience. 

Powder Coating

Applicants must have experience in all the processes associated with manual and fully automatic powder coating systems, including pre-treatment and curing.

Fabrication Welders

Successful applicants will be working in our welding & fabrication departments in our modern manufacturing facility at Shandrum, Drumfries, Buncrana, Co. Donegal. 

Various shift patterns available.

Robotic Welder Operators

Robotic Welding cells have been installed to complement our existing welding processes, the successful candidate must have 3 years’ experience operating ABB or similar type robot.

Closing Date for Applications is 18th of Oct  2024.

Please forward email of interest or CV (stating the role you are applying for) to peter@inisheng.com     

The post Jobs: Inishowen Engineering hiring for variety of manufacturing roles appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A new TG4 documentary explores the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees living in Ireland, including a group living on Tory Island.

Idir Dhá Bhaile – Ó Chív go Corcaigh, explores the lives of a father and daughter Leo & Nadia Dobrianska  who have fled the invasion of their homeland.

The film recalls Nadia and her family’s emotional journey from Kyiv to Cork and delves into the uncertainty faced by refugees while war ravages their home country.

For Nadia Dobrianska, a fluent Irish speaker, the decision to settle in Ireland made sense; but it has not been without consequence. The family have suffered unimaginable loss at the hands of war and now find themselves torn between two countries.

Filmed over the course of their first two years in Ireland, the film sees Nadia and her father Leo as they grapple with their new life in Ireland, come to terms with what they have left behind in Ukraine, and try to imagine what their futures may look like in a world of uncertainty.

While filming we see Nadia visit Tory Island in Donegal where refugees talk about life on the Island and the hopes they have of returning to their homeland.

Director Sinéad Ingoldsby says: “Nadia and Leo’s deeply moving story gets behind the headlines to tell of the devastating effects of war and displacement on one family.  In sharing their personal trauma, they demonstrate the resilience, generosity, and spirit of Ireland’s new Ukrainian community”.

Produced by Below the Radar TV, with support from Northern Ireland Screen’s Irish Language Broadcast Fund, Idir Dhá Bhaile – ó Chív go Corcaigh will broadcast on TG4 on September 25th at 9:30 pm.

The post Life for Ukrainian refugees living on Tory island examined in TG4 documentary appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Leading layer Caroleann Gallagher’s achievements know no bounds. 

In May of this year, the Arranmore native was in Washington to be sworn in as an attorney to the United States Supreme Court, a major highlight in her glittering professional career to date.

In two year’s time, she will become the first Irish-born President of The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois.

And in the coming weeks, Caroleann will also be one of the recipients of the  Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

The event returns for 2024 to the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana on Friday, 27th September, from 7pm.

Caroleann grew up on Arranmore Island, where she is the youngest of four children born to Islanders, Kathleen & Laurence Gallagher. Caroleann received her primary and secondary schooling on Arranmore and was part of the first 24 students to attend Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada when it opened its doors in 1990. Caroleann’s parents and many other Islanders had lobbied the State for twenty plus years for the provision of secondary education on the Island and Caroleann is a very proud first student of the now immensely successful Gairmscoil. 

After her Leaving Certificate, Caroleann proceeded with her education at University College Galway where she obtained a B.A Hons Degree in Political Science and Legal Studies. She continued her post Bachelor’s education, obtaining her Law Degree also at UCG in 1998.  From there, Caroleann was enrolled into The Law Society of Ireland’s Apprenticeship Program which she completed under the guidance of Solicitors at Mullaney’s Solicitors, Sligo and she was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 2004. Caroleann remained working as an assistant Solicitor with Mullaney’s in Sligo before moving to another law firm, Callan Tansey, who have offices in Sligo, Roscommon, and Dublin. 

Following a chance encounter on a five-day break to Chicago, Caroleann met and fell in love with her Limerick born Husband, Patrick. After a short, long-distance relationship, that chance encounter ended up being one that changed the course of Caroleann’s future completely. In the Winter of 2008, Caroleann emigrated to Chicago and began her pursuit of her American Dream. As a fully qualified Solicitor with over five years of practice under her belt, Caroleann was eligible to sit for the Illinois State Bar Exam for admission as an Attorney to practice law in the State of Illinois. After some gruelling years of dealing with the admission process and some tough months of studying, Caroleann was successful in the Bar Exam and admitted to practice as an attorney in May of 2011. Caroleann and Patrick married in July of that same year. 

Caroleann’s career in law in the States has been primarily focused on personal injuries and those hurt by the negligence of others. She has an extensive practice of representing the victims of medical negligence and nursing home abuse and neglect as well as other catastrophic injuries that alter the course of her clients’ lives. Caroleann has a strong affinity for the working man and their families. Her Dad and three brothers have worked all over the world, as part of the legacy that is the Tunnel Tigers and as Caroleann married a construction worker, she is ever conscious of the devastating impact a catastrophic injury can have on a family. She joined her current firm in 2017, becoming a Partner in 2018 and in 2021, the former Dwyer Coogan became Coogan Gallagher. 

Over her fifteen years of practice in America, Caroleann has secured millions of dollars for her injured clients and their families including a recent $3,000,000 verdict for the family of a woman who died after a routine heart procedure, a $2,000,000 settlement for a 21-year-old victim rear ended by a semi-truck and a $1,000,000 settlement for a young woman whose doctor failed to diagnose her breast cancer. Caroleann has been recognised as a Super Lawyer within her field of practice as well as a Leading Lawyer and a Top 100 Trial Lawyer with The National Trial Lawyers Association.  

Caroleann, Patrick, Ava and Ana

Caroleann and Patrick have two daughters, Ava who is almost 12 and Ana who recently turned 10.  Showing her daughters the importance of dedication and a good work ethic is important to Caroleann as she credits her parents as instilling the same in her. Caroleann is active in her legal community and is the current Second Vice President of The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois, which is the oldest and largest bar organisation in Illinois.  The Women’s Bar is made up of women lawyers who strive to support and assist each other in the practice of law. Caroleann will be the first Irish born Women’s Bar President in 2026 and her ascension to President is a testament to the hard work and dedication she has shown to the organisation over the many years of her involvement.  

Caroleann Gallagher at the US Supreme Court Washington

Chicago is a diverse and vibrant community, steeped in affinity and friendship with the Irish. Caroleann immersed herself into the Irish American Community immediately on arrival in Chicago and is a very active member of many community-based organisations and programs. Keen to keep ties with their home, Caroleann and her Husband introduced their daughters at a very young age to GAA and they both now play Gaelic Football and Camogie for the Chicago Celtics GFC and Limerick Chicago Youth Hurling Club. Caroleann is a board member and the public relations officer of both clubs and also a board member and the PRO of The Chicago Youth Minor Board.  Since 2019 the clubs have provided an opportunity for American kids to experience the ‘Cúl Camp’ experience offered to so many kids every Summer in Ireland. In 2024, there were 170 kids in attendance with over 20 coaches made up mostly of J1 students visiting Chicago for the Summer. 

Caroleann said, “Bringing Kellogg’s Cúl Camps to Chicago does not just happen; it has taken months of planning, endless phone calls, thousands of emails, and WhatsApp groups and messages, and above all a huge commitment of time and perseverance from an army of our club parents behind the scenes”.

Chicago GAA brings an immense amount of community and support to Caroleann and her family, and it has been a source of comfort to her on those days when the inevitable homesickness sets in. While Caroleann now calls Chicago her home, a little piece of her heart will always be in Arranmore. 

In 2023, in an effort to give back and to recognise the immense positive effect Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada made on Caroleann, she initiated and launched The Coogan Gallagher Scholarship, which is a yearly scholarship that will be open to all Leaving Cert students of the Gairmscoil in Arranmore. The scholarship is based on an application and an essay where students lay out their involvement and leadership initiatives at school and in their communities and outline why they are deserving of the Scholarship. 

 The Coogan Gallagher Scholarship is specifically not based on a student’s exam or test results as Caroleann recognises that the grades a student gets do not reflect the overall person. The Scholarship will be available annually and will provide the chosen student with €3,000, to assist them as they embark on their new life after school. 

The second recipient of the Coogan Gallagher Scholarship was announced in June and Caroleann is very proud of the scholarship and hopes to be able to offer it to the Gairmscoil, for many years to come.

Donegal County Council is delighted to present the 2024 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards which will take place at the esteemed Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana on Friday, 27th September, from 7pm.

Tickets now on sale for the 2024 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/tip-oneill-irish-diaspora-awards-2024-tickets-920659777177

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Artlink Fort Dunree is this week opening ‘Whispering Sea’ – an evocative new exhibition by their 2024 International Artist-in-Residence, Arijit Bhattacharyya.

This exhibition delves into the interconnected histories of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, exploring the themes of migration, identity, and the transformative power of imagination.

‘Whispering Sea’ is a work of artistic imagination, grounded in the postcolonial and neocolonial social resistance movements. Through a multi-layered narrative, Bhattacharyya uses the sea as both a literal and symbolic force to evoke themes of freedom, justice, and transformation. The exhibition is a celebration of the ocean’s timeless whispers, stories of displacement, survival, and dreams.

Artlink Project Coordinator, Rebecca Strain, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the new exhibition: “We get hundreds of brilliant proposals from artists for the residency programme and this year the panel chose Arijit Bhattacharyya. His work stood out for us because it speaks about a contentious and pertinent topic: the movement of people, ideas, and cultures. We are intrigued to see what conversations are sparked for visitors when they experience his new exhibition, which will exist very briefly at Fort Dunree.”

Arijit Bhattacharyya ‘Whispering Sea’

Through his work, Arijit explores connections between the migration of people and the migration of oceans, posing the question of whether the tides themselves carry the memory of movement and displacement.

Speaking about his residency, Arijit Bhattacharyya said: “This residency at Artlink stands as an intersection where my narrative converges with the grandeur of the oceans’ tales. I have been really eager to embark on this immersive artistic journey – a testament to the resilience, love, adaptability, and endurance inherent in the human spirit amidst the currents of change, pain, and hostility.”

Artlink Project Coordinator Martha McCulloch added: “Since his arrival Arijit has been engaging in dialogue with the local community and artists, and facilitating events – including a lecture performance ‘How Political is (y)our Curry?’ and a walk as part of the Inishowen Walking Festival. He encouraged us to think and behave with more confidence, and convinced us of his idea to paint the entire Saldanha Gallery skirting to ceiling Prussian Blue. Upon this background which looks like the tide moving he has painted huge humanlike forms. All the while he’s also been directing a film being produced in another time zone which will premiere as part of the exhibition on Friday evening.”

Visitors to the new exhibition will have the opportunity to experience Arijit’s work across various mediums, including installations, textiles, drawings, and performances. His interdisciplinary approach to art invites engagement and dialogue, creating space for a deeper understanding of the human experience within the context of global migrations and collective histories.

The opening reception for ‘Whispering Sea’ will take place on Friday, 20th September at 6pm at Artlink Fort Dunree. The exhibition will continue 10:30am to 4:30pm daily (with free admission) up until 26th September.

For further information about ‘Whispering Sea’ or upcoming exhibitions and events at Artlink, visit www.artlink.ie Facebook.com/Artlinkfortdunreepage or contact a member of the Artlink team on 0838696513.

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Tributes are being paid to businessman Bernard Dillon who passed away earlier today.

Mr Dillon helped run the family supermarket, Dillon Brothers, on Letterkenny’s Main Street.

Originally from County Roscommon, Bernard made the Cathedral Town his home and made a huge contribution to everyday life there.

He was a huge driving force behind Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce after helping to form the organisation in 1965 and remaining as a member right up until his sad passing.

The Letterkenny Chamber this evening paid an emotional tribute to the man who always put Letterkenny first.

Bernard is survived by wife Brid and his grown-up children Kieran, Bronagh and Sinead.

His funeral takes place this Thursday at St Eunan’s Cathedral.

The following is the tribute from Letterkenny Chamber.

“We, the Letterkenny Chamber Council, and staff, past and present, are very saddened to hear about the death of our esteemed colleague and founding member Bernard Dillon.

“Bernard was made an Honorary Member of the Chamber in 1997, when he retired from the family business, the famous Dillon Brothers Supermarket on Main St. Letterkenny and he remained on the Chamber Council until very recently. No person is more deserving of the Honorary Member accolade than this gentleman.

“59 years service to any organisation is a remarkable achievement, but when you give your time and expertise for free then it is pure selflessness. When Bernard decided to get involved in the founding of the very first Chamber of Commerce in Letterkenny, little did he think 59 years later that he’d still be at the heart of the business organisation.

“Bernard attended the inaugural meeting of the Chamber in Spring 1965 at the old Literary Institute – where the library is located now. He had great foresight back then and realised that a Chamber of Commerce in Letterkenny would serve the town well into the future. Despite the fact that he was busy with the supermarket, he wanted to commit to the Chamber and to ensure that it became part of the commercial development of Letterkenny.

“His energy, business acumen and determination were invaluable traits that he brought to the Chamber and the organisation’s success today is in no small part due to Bernard. Asked how he motivated the business people of the town to join the new Chamber, Bernard says it was hard to sell this new idea. However through his enthusiasm and the respect that other business people held for him ensured that Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce grew and is now a thriving organisation.

“Bernard served as Chamber President in 1970 and until this year (2024) he was still regularly attending monthly Chamber Council meetings, where his opinions were always well regarded. He was heavily involved particularly in The St.Patrick’s Day Parade acting as our Judging Panel Chair for many years, a job that he took very seriously. Bernard was always first to book for the Annual Gala Ball and never missed a Christmas Lights switch on.

“Bernard attended the 2023 AGM with the same enthusiasm and his broad smile. Members of the Chamber Council over all these years, new and old, have always held him in the highest regard. Along with other business people it was with foresight that he founded Letterkenny Chamber and his dedication, interest and enthusiasm for the Chamber and for the town of Letterkenny that he loved so much, never waned.

“We offer our heartfelt sympathy to his wife Brid, children, Ciarán, Bronagh and Sinead and all his family. He will be missed and fondly remembered by everyone associated with Letterkenny Chamber past and present and by all who knew him. May he Rest in Peace.”

Funeral details

Late of Glenview, Ballyraine, Letterkenny, (F92 AP2H), 16th September 2024, peacefully, surrounded by his devoted family in the special care of the Donegal Hospice.

Deeply regretted and forever missed by his loving wife, Brid, son Ciarán (Jacqui), daughters, Bronagh & Sinead (Gráinne), granddaughter, Aoife (Graham), great-granddaughter, Fíadh, nieces, nephews and extended family, friends and neighbours.

Reposing at his late residence on Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th September from 1 pm to 9 pm each day. Rosary on both nights at 9 pm.

Removal from his late residence on Thursday 19th September to St. Eunan’s Cathedral for 11 am Requiem Mass which can be viewed live on www.churchservices.tv/letterkenny followed by burial in Conwal Cemetery.

Family time please on the morning of the funeral.

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