A Donegal Sinn Féin TD has called on the Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien to take immediate action on the growing issue of the Housing Agency’s overturning of engineer recommendations for defective concrete block homes.

It was revealed that more than a third of all engineer’s recommendations for remediating homes in the defective concrete block scheme have been downgraded by the government’s agency so far.

The Housing Agency needs to urgently stop basing its decisions on the outdated I.S. 465 standard, says Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn.

In a letter to Minister O’Brien, Deputy Mac Lochlainn said: “It is clearly unsustainable for the engineers acting on behalf of the Housing Agency to continue to overrule the recommendations of engineers acting for homeowners based on the standard I.S. 465, that is not fit for purpose and in my opinion, discredited.

“Engineers Ireland have repeatedly outlined their serious concerns about this ongoing practice.

“Homeowners and engineers must have full confidence in the remediation solutions under the Enhanced Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme. That is not currently the case.”

Deputy Mac Lochlainn also highlighted correspondence he received from Geraldine Larkin, CEO of the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), which said it is considering the Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) managed research regarding internal sulphate attack (ISA) and testing to identify ISA, Pyrrhotite alteration and other highly reactive forms of iron sulphide will be included in the amended I.S. 465.

As the NSAI considers the findings, Deputy Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister to “immediately act” to have these decisions paused pending the outcome of the NSAI’s deliberations.

A meeting of Donegal County Council’s Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme Committee yesterday revealed that of 315 remediation options granted by the Housing Agency, 123 were changed from the original recommendations made by homeowners’ engineers.

Of those, 111 were lowered from Option 1 (full demolition) to Options 2-4 or a combination of these. This represents 35% of all applications to the scheme.

The post Housing Minister urged to halt all downgrading of remediation grants appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal County Council has signed a contract for the construction of 43 new social housing units in Dungloe.

Following a competitive tendering process, John O’Donnell Construction Ltd, Ballybofey, won the bid for the project at Chapel Road.

“This significant housing scheme, which has been designed by the council’s in-house architectural team, will provide new homes to 43 families in the Dungloe area,” a council spokesperson said. 

The west-Donegal development has been widely welcomed and will consist of a mix of housing units ranging from 1-bedroom apartments to larger 4-bedroomed houses.   

Main pic: Front Row L-R; Cllr Niamh Kennedy Cathaoirleach (DCC), John G. McLaughlin Chief Executive (DCC), Paul O’Donnell  (John O’Donnell Construction Ltd) and Cllr John Shéamuis Ó Fearraigh, Cathaoirleach (Glenties Municipal District),

Bank Row L-R; Cllr. Patrick McGowan, Cllr. Donal Coyle, Cllr. Gerry McMonagle, Patsy Lafferty Director of Housing Corporate and Cultural Services (DCC), Liam Murray, Executive Engineer Housing Design (DCC), ; Claire Burke Senior Executive Architect (DCC), John Gallagher A/Senior Engineer Housing Capital (DCC), Gareth Rodgers, Executive Architectural Technician (DCC), Tara Quinn, Executive Architect (DCC), Cllr. Martin Scanlon, Cllr. Denis McGee and Cllr. Fionán Bradley.

The post Contract signed for 43 new social houses in west Donegal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Main pic: Aerial View of Finn Valley College, Stranorlar.

A long awaited walkway through the scenic Drumboe Woods in Stranorlar is to finally open next spring.

Cllr Martin Harley made the announcement at yesterday’s meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District (MD).

The walkway, between the new Finn Valley College and the town via Drumboe Woods, was supposed to open 12 years ago.

However, Cllr Harley informed yesterday’s meeting that he’s been ‘guaranteed’ the route will be open next year.

“I’ve had a meeting with the developer (of the new school extension) and the ETB and I’ve been guaranteed it (the walkway) will be opened by the end of April, next year,” he said.

“It’s not what we had hoped for, but that’s the way it is. At least there’s a timeframe that it’ll definitely be opened.”

The news was welcomed by all councillors present. 

At the last MD meeting in July, councillors were informed that the gateway from the college to the woods would have to remain locked during planned construction works for health and safety reasons. 

Cllr Patrick McGowan said it was the Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB) that was preventing the gate from being opened, calling it an ‘absolute disgrace’. 

Council engineer, Adrian McCool, told the meeting he couldn’t understand why an extension within the ETB site could have anything to do with the walkway.

The post Drumboe Woods walkway to finally open next spring appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A recent fundraising dance and shave in Carndonagh has raised €14,000 in memory of a special baby boy, Kayden White.

Baby Kayden, the son of Keelan White and Michaela McCauley, passed away last year at only 15 days old.

An identical twin, he and his brother were born severely premature at 27 weeks. Kayden and his brother fought hard in their first days of life, but sadly Kayden took a turn for the worst which resulted in him developing sepsis and passing away.

In honour of Kayden’s first heavenly anniversary, Keelan and Michaela organised a fundraiser dance and raffle at Tul Na Ri on the 30th August with some brave volunteers also doing head shaves and waxes.

The event received massive local support, raising €14,000 to be shared between the National Maternity Hospital and Hugh’s House.

Keelan and Michaela raised an amazing €7,000 for the National Maternity Hospital

Following the cheque presentations on Saturday, Michaela praised the “two exceptional organisations who had greatly impacted our journey since the boys were born.

“As we look back on our journey it has been one of the toughest battles of our lives,” she said.

Michaela wrote: “We raised an amazing €7,000 for the National Maternity Hospital who cared for the boys for several months since they were born prematurely at 27 weeks. We want to express our deepest gratitude to each and everyone in the hospital team, the exceptional commitment, support and care we got was outstanding.  We couldn’t thank them enough for all they have done for us.

The couple also presented €7,000 to Hugh’s House, a charity which provides accommodation to the family of children who are in hospital in Dublin.

“Hugh’s House was a beautiful house away from home during the most challenging moments of our lives, and we raised €7,000 for it also. We will always be forever grateful of Pat and Joanne for their amazing generosity and kindness throughout our journey. Without their charity, we could not have been there for our boys every day, we sincerely hope our donation will help support future families who find themselves in the similar situation.

“We are forever grateful for everyone’s donations & support in memory of our baby boy to make this all possible.”

The post Carndonagh couple donates €14,000 in loving memory of baby boy appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A man who went the wrong way down a one-way street in Letterkenny and met a Garda car has been fined €150.

Roger O’Connor had his charge reduced from dangerous driving to careless driving when he appeared at Letterkenny District Court.

The court was told O’Connor was leaving the entrance to the local theatre coming onto Port Road when he mistakenly turned left instead of right in his black Audi A4 on August 18th last.

He then met a Garda patrol car coming up the Port Road who stopped him.

O’Connor was later charged that at Port Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, a public place in said District Court Area of Letterkenny and District No. 1, he did drive a vehicle, registration number 182MO1246 in a manner (including speed) which having regard to all the circumstances of the case (including the condition of the vehicle, the nature, condition and use of such place and the amount of the traffic which then actually was or might reasonably be expected then to be therein) was dangerous to the public or was likely to be dangerous to the public.

The 23-year-old accused man’s solicitor, Mr Frank Dorrian, said he was asking the court to consider reducing the charge from dangerous driving to careless driving saying his client simply made a mistake when turning.

He added that it was a “momentary lapse of concentration.”

Mr Dorrian said his office is located on the Port road and that “every six weeks or so” the same thing happened and that cars went by his window in the wrong direction.

He added that an alcohol reading taken by Gardai on the night had been very low and that a fixed penalty notice had been paid.

Mr Dorrian added that O’Connor, of Greenfields, Convoy, had been very apologetic and cooperative with Gardai during the incident.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham agreed to reduce the charge to one of careless driving and fined the accused €150.

She also agreed not to disqualify O’Connor from driving as he had no previous convictions.

The post Convoy man met Gardai after turning wrong way down one-way street appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A new veterinary medicine programme in ATU Donegal will provide a huge boost to both Letterkenny and the county, according to Senator Nikki Bradley.

It was confirmed this morning the university was selected as one of two institutions expanding their third-level veterinary medicine places alongside South East Technological University (SETU)

The new development will contribute to 80 additional veterinary graduates in Ireland each year.

Senator Bradley, Fine Gael’s General Election candidate in Donegal, said the new Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVMS) will help address shortages of vets in rural Ireland.

“I am absolutely delighted to see ATU and Donegal chosen for a new veterinary programme. ATU is a fantastic third level provider that has contributed so much to the local community,” Sen Bradley said.

ATU’s new veterinary programme will be a dual-campus programme delivered primarily at ATU Donegal in collaboration with ATU Mountbellew, where two semesters will be taught.

Other teaching and learning activities, including the programme’s clinical facilities, will be located on the Donegal campus.

“For years, students who did not get accepted into the programme in UCD were forced to travel abroad,” Sen Bradley added.

“The addition of this new programme will allow more students who wish to study veterinary medicine to stay in Ireland to get their degree.

“We know farmers and vets in rural Ireland are under severe pressure, and having a new programme in Donegal will help ease some of that stress.

“The introduction of this programme is a major milestone for rural Ireland, and particularly the Northwest.”

She went on to say that ‘Fine Gael is listening to farmers and vets across rural Ireland’, and hopes this new veterinary programme will go a long way in helping rural communities.

The post ATU’s new vet college a huge boost to Donegal – Bradley appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Advance payments totalling €17.5 million have been issued to 7,141 Donegal farmers this week under the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) scheme.

The scheme supports people farming land in designated areas face significant hardships from factors such as remoteness, difficult topography, climatic problems and poor soil conditions.

The rates of payment are dependent on land type and size.

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue announced ANC payments totalling over €184 million today. He said: “This is the highest level of advance payments to the most farmers ever achieved for the ANC. Also, I am very pleased that, as I committed, the ANC payment date in 2024 is fully in line with dates agreed with the Farmers’ Charter earlier this year.”

“The ANC scheme is crucial to farm families, and I know the importance of getting payments out to applicants as quickly as possible. The issuing of these payments in mid-September highlights our commitment to make payments to farmers at the earliest possible time.

“Payments will be visible in farmers’ bank accounts in the coming days and my department will continue to process, as a matter of urgency, all remaining cases for payment as they meet scheme criteria,” the Donegal minister added.

Minister McConalogue also confirmed that his department is on track to facilitate payment of the advance of 70% under the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS), Complementary Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) from October 16th 2024 and payments under the Eco-scheme from October 21st 2024.

The post More than 7,000 Donegal farmers receiving funding for tackling difficult land appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Camile Thai in Letterkenny has closed today after almost two years in business.

The popular restaurant and takeaway franchise opened its first Donegal branch in January 2023, creating 16 jobs locally.

However, due to challenging trading conditions, the decision has been made to close the doors as of today (Wednesday).

In a message to customers, franchisee Andy Davitt said the announcement comes with a heavy heart but with a note of positivity.

“While the current trading conditions have undoubtedly been a lot to contend with, we want to focus on the amazing support we’ve received from this fantastic community.

“The people of Letterkenny have welcomed us with open arms, and it’s been a joy to serve such a vibrant, friendly town.

“We’re incredibly grateful for your loyalty and enthusiasm over the years.”

Davitt also expressed hope for a future return, stating, “While this chapter is closing for now, we’re hopeful it’s not the end! We’re already thinking of ways we might be able to come back in the future. Thank you for being part of our journey—we hope to see you again soon!”

The announcement comes amid warnings from Irish tourism and hospitality groups about an impending commercial crisis within the sector. A joint call has been made for immediate action in the upcoming Budget with a splitting of hospitality VAT and reintroduction of the lower 9% rate for food services.

The challenges facing the sector are laid bare in a new economic report examining the root causes of a worrying downsizing among hospitality food businesses throughout the country.

The report by economist Anthony Foley reveals that, even when operating under the previous 9% VAT rate, hospitality businesses within the wider tourism industry generated record levels of taxes for the exchequer. As a result of the higher 13.5% VAT rate, it is now estimated that the annual tax take from the sector will increase to €2.33 billion this year, some €1.17 billion higher than in 2018.

“his equates to a 100% increase in annual taxes, resulting in an unsustainable burden for the sector at a time when hospitality businesses are struggling to survive,” said a statement from Chief Executives of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC), Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI), Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI), Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) and Licensed Vintners Association (LVA).

The post Letterkenny restaurant announces closure appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Local companies in Inishowen have helped to launch a new soil regeneration initiative  by Ireland North-West City Region, as part of the European Commission’s Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC).

‘Grow Eat Compost Repeat’ promotes a circular economy where biodegradable food, garden and park waste are converted into high quality microbial compost.

The initiative, led by the ICC Donegal team, was launched at the Clonmany Market House last week.

Led by KPM Soils and supported by Donegal County Council, this initiative brings together a large community of businesses, biodegradable garden and park waste donors and regenerative soil users to create a community-wide circular economy solution. 

The Ireland North-West City Region launched its Local Green Deal initiative, “Grow Eat Compost Repeat,” at Clonmany Market House. Led by the Intelligent Cities Challenge Donegal team (ERNACT, Donegal County Council and KPM Soils).

Cathaoirleach of the Inishowen Municipal District, Jack Murray, joined the signing event, demonstrating his support for the initiative. He shared that, “The Local Green Deal is a shining example of community climate action, highlighting the importance of regenerating our soil, and using our local resources in a sustainable way to benefit us all. Donegal County Council is proud to support this initiative”.

15 local companies, along with community groups and Donegal County Council, have already committed to the project, underscoring the region’s strong dedication to sustainable practices. Among the participants are Clonmany Community Centre, Clonmany Mental Health Association, Clonmany Community Garden, Spraoi agus Sport, Clonmany Community Pantry, Clonmany PreSchool, Acorn Farm Project, Inishowen Co-Op, The Conservation Volunteers, The Square Bar, The Market House Café, Cafe Banba, Clonmany Tidy Towns, Inish Forestry and Simply Inish. The event was attended by representatives from community organizations, social enterprises, local businesses, Donegal County Council, and Saverio Romeo, the City Region’s lead expert from the European Commission, all showing support for this environmentally driven initiative.

The Ireland North-West City Region, which includes Donegal and Derry/Strabane, is one of 64 cities and regions across Europe participating in the European Commission’s Intelligent Cities Challenge 2.0 (ICC), aimed at advancing green and digital transitions. 

This event reflects the region’s commitment to the European Green Deal’s goals, using Local Green Deals (LGDs), collaborative agreements between local authorities, business and communities to accelerate sustainability efforts at the local level.

Margaret Quinn, ERNACT Programme Manager and NW Ireland City Region ICC Team Leader, commented, “The Intelligent Cities Challenge programme gives the impetus to make LGD’s happen. But it all depends on local participation. We are very fortunate to have the local capability of KPM Soils on soil regeneration, great support from Clonmany and the wider Inishowen community and the involvement of Donegal County Council climate action team. The approach could be replicated across the county and country to bring significant environmental, health, and climate action benefits.”
Saverio Romeo, European Commission expert, “The Local Green Deal is a strategy instrument that brings together local authorities, local businesses, and other local stakeholders to design and develop climate friendly and sustainable solutions for the entire community. At Clonmany in Donegal, the ICC North West City Region team enabled that, and KPM Soils, Donegal City Council and the other 13 organisations, together, made it real”.

The post Inishowen companies get behind ‘grow eat compost repeat’ initiative appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A young man who was found drunk by Gardai trying to climb a barrier into the Letterkenny Summer Sessions has been ordered to pay a €300 donation to charity.

Kieran Cassidy, 29, was found by Gardai to be unsteady on his feet and trying to climb a barrier at the concert on August 18th last.

When approached by Gardai, he became abusive to Gardai telling them “get off me you f***ing c***.”

Cassidy, of Laurel Drive, Strabane, Co Tyrone, appeared at Letterkenny District Court.

He was charged that at Kiltoy Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal   a public place, in said District Court Area of Letterkenny, District Number One , did use or engage in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether a breach of the peace might have been occasioned.

The charge was Contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2008

Garda Sergeant Jim Collins, told the court that Cassidy was very apologetic when he sobered up at Letterkenny Garda Station after being arrested.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham asked Mr Gallagher if his client wanted to deal with the matter by way of a donation and this was agreed.

Cassidy was ordered to make a donation of €200 to the Donegal Hospice by November 18th or face a fine of €300 in the event that he does not.

The post Drunk man who tried to climb barrier at Letterkenny concert to make €200 donation appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Inishowen-based Neuro Developmental Therapist Sinead O’Toole is set to hold a workshop for parents and guardians on identifying and dealing with different neuro-developmental disorders.

The workshop is open to all and takes place on Wednesday 25th September 7pm-8.30pm at Spraoi Agus Sport Unit 10 (SuperValu Shopping Center) Carndonagh.

With a focus on neuro-developmental disorders, learning difficulties and behavioural problems, Sinead O’Toole will discuss her work and therapy practices.

There will be an opportunity to ask questions, and tea and coffee will be provided.

Places are limited, €5 cost, book online here.

The talk will cover what the INPP (The Institute for Neuro-Physiological Psychology ) programme is and how it may help children with underlying neuro-developmental problems such as dyspraxia.

It will discuss primitive and postural reflexes and how these early reflexes play a crucial role in the development of motor and sensory systems.

Sinead will also talk about some of the better known primitive reflexes such as the rooting reflex, the Moro reflex, the STNR, and ATNR, as well as the importance of assessing and understanding the presence and integration of primitive and postural reflexes.

Sinead’s neuro – developmental therapy is a completely drug-free and non-invasive programme using tailored daily physical exercises to help the child succeed and to help not only parents but also carers, teachers and childcare facilitators etc to adapt tasks so that children with neuro developmental problems can develop their skills such as reading and writing, and eye-hand coordination while also calming behavioural challenges such as frustration, fear, anxiety, poor concentration, and impulse control issues.

For more information and to book your place, visit: https://spraoi-agus-sport.classforkids.io/info/5400?fbclid=IwY2xjawFXc2pleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYDncOeIpyUf99dIr4GOVCLE_bHwvQUNzPzdRTcqNSjadySKpif3DoforQ_aem_txzjcZIcmGEADtWsVI0dTg&sfnsn=mo

Visit Sinead’s Instagram profile here: https://www.instagram.com/ndtinishowen

The post Inishowen therapist to host workshop on neurodevelopmental disorders appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Maureen McLaughlin’s exceptional baking skills were on full display at the National Brown Bread Baking Competition semi-finals at the Ploughing this week.

While Maureen didn’t advance to the final, her participation in the semi-final was a significant accomplishment as she flew the flag for Donegal.

Maureen McLaughlin from St. Johnston who took part in yesterday’s semi-finals for the National Brown Bread Baking Competition

In a fierce competition filled with talented bakers, Martin Malone from Dublin and Rose Egan from Offaly were successful in getting through to the final which takes place tomorrow.

The annual competition is supported by Euronics in association with the National Ploughing Association and the Irish Country Women’s Association.

The winning brown bread baker will walk away with a cash prize of €5,000 and a NEFF Slide & Hide oven, with the three finalists all walking away with a €500 Euronics gift card.

The post St Johnston baker Maureen McLaughlin enjoys a healthy slice of competition appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Main pic: File image.

A local councillor has claimed developers can ‘do whatever they want’ in the east Donegal village of Convoy. 

Cllr Patrick McGowan made the comment at yesterday’s meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District (MD) during a discussion on planning.

He said Convoy has become ‘overdeveloped’ with housing estates, without the proper infrastructure being put in place.

“They (developers) can do whatever they want in Convoy. Buildings are being put up miles apart and away from the village centre,” Cllr McGowan said.

“That’s what happened 20 years ago with massive estates being built kilometers apart with no connections – now it’s happening all over again.”

Cllr McGowan added there is ‘a lot of disquiet’ in Convoy over the issue. 

“No other town in Donegal has faced the same scale of building as Convoy. Someone needs to do something about it.” 

The post Builders can ‘do what they want’ in Convoy – Cllr McGowan appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Job Vacancy: An award-winning engineering business in Inishowen seeks new team members with ambition.

Welditz is a family run business and has been in business for 25+ years.

In order to meet our growing demand, we are seeking to fill the following positions (at skilled and semi-skilled levels.)

The roles present opportunities to enhance your skills through working on a variety of projects, mainly in the pharma and robotics sectors.

1) Skilled Welder-Fabricators Required

We are looking for a skilled welder – fabricator to join our team. This role offers the opportunity to enhance your skills while working on a great variety of high quality projects.

Responsibilities:
Welding of laser cut components to a high standard.
Weld dressing using electric & air grinders.
Read assembly & fabrication drawings.

Desired skills:
Stainless Steel Tig / Mig welding.
Experience finishing & weld dressing components.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

What we offer:
– Work on a variety of high quality projects including pharma and robotics sectors.
– Training in latest Laser Welding technology.
– On-site Parking.
– Finish at 2pm on Fridays.

2) Press-Brake Operators

Responsibilities:
Folding parts from one offs to larger batch runs.
Setting and editing folding programs.
Selecting and changing tooling.
Checking and confirming part dimensions.
Careful handling to avoid dents or scratches.

Desired skills:
Experience using NC & CNC machines.
Ability to understand CAD / Fabrication drawings.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

What we offer:
– Work on a variety of high quality projects including pharma and robotics sectors.
– On-site Parking.
– Finish at 2pm on Fridays.

3) Quotations Assistant

Desired skills:

Computer literate, especially using Excel with good attention to detail.

Would suit someone who is looking for flexible hrs and all training will be given on the job.

4) Maintenance Personnel

Desired skills: Previous experience required in machinery (cars and tractors etc) repair and enjoys working on same.

Flexible hrs/days and training offered.

How to Apply

If you, or someone you know is interested in joining a growing and awarding winning team, please contact Barbara: admin@welditz.com

The post Job Opportunities: Expanding Welditz engineering company hiring in Carndonagh appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The second episode of our Donegal Daily / Donegal Sport Hub GAA Championship Podcast is out now.

Charlie Collins and his panellists John Haran and Danny O’Donnell break down the battles of the weekend in the Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure Donegal GAA intermediate and senior championship.

And as the quarter-finals and semi-finals come around, the panel gives their predictions.

Sponsored by Dunaff Construction, Massachusetts.

Watch the full episode here:

The post Watch: Predictions, drama, and debate in the new GAA Championship podcast appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Main pic: Poles at the Stranorlar crossing that have been changed from red and white to black and white. Pic: Donegal Daily.

A County Councillor has hit out at changes to new warning signs placed at controversial pedestrian crossings in Ballybofey and Stranorlar.

The crossings have been subject to some debate in the past year, due to the lack of warning signage and beacons.

The council has added new signs facing oncoming traffic in recent months, however, Cllr Patrick McGowan is not happy with some of the changes.

“The red and white poles at the crossings in the Twin Towns were brilliant, but now they’re camouflaged in black and white,” he told yesterday’s meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District (MD).

“That’s ridiculous as you could see the poles better (when red and white) than the actual warning signs.”

In response, the council’s Senior Roads Engineer, Clare McGeever, told Cllr McGowan ‘the spec’ had been changed from red and white to black and white.

Poles at the crossing in Ballybofey are still in Cllr McGowan’s preferred red and white. Pic: Donegal Daily.

The four zebra crossings were added in busy areas of Ballybofey and Stranorlar early last year as part of a TII-led pilot project trialling an alternative to the traditional zebra crossings with yellow flashing beacons.

However, motorists have complained about the lack of visibility and the dangers of pedestrians stepping out.

Last year, local representatives, including Cllr McGowan, highlighted the high number of heavy goods vehicles travelling through the Twin Towns. He also condemned the crossing near the Bank of Ireland (below) as a particularly hazardous location.

The crossing opposite the Bank of Ireland in Ballybofey. Pic: Donegal Daily.

The post Councillor sees red (and white) over controversial Twin Towns crossings appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Main pic: Team Event winners of the Three-ball L-R: Kathleen Kelly, Letterkenny Golf Club, Hazel Russell, Rosapenna, Roisin Kerr, presenting prizes on behalf on the McDaid family, and Frances Shannon Portsalon Golf Club.

It was another busy week for the ladies at Portsalon Golf Club

Mary McDaid Tournament

The annual tournament for the much sought after Mary McDaid Trophy was won by the ladies from Letterkenny Golf Club last Saturday.

Roisin Kerr, daughter of Mary McDaid represented the McDaid family in presenting the trophy, which is in memory of all deceased members of each of the clubs.

Launching the Mary McDaid Tournament with the Trophy in Portsalon Golf Club from left to right Vice Lady Captain Helena McBride Rosapenna, Lady Captain Noreen McConigley Portsalon and Lady Captain Anne Flannery Letterkenny.

The three-ball team format made up of a member from each club, not only are playing for their club but also for their team. The added twist of each team being given the yellow ball, with every team member playing a hole in turn with the said yellow ball until it is either lost, sunk or handed back after the18 holes.

The only pressure in golf is the weather. Allegedly!

Speaking of the weather – I would love to say it was a hot humid day, but alas the high winds, and rain persisted throughout.

However, the day as always produced a great spirit of friendship among the ladies. Congratulations to Letterkenny on their great score.

Roisin Kerr on behalf of the McDaid family presenting the Mary McDaid trophy to the winning team Lady Captain, Anne Flannery, Letterkenny Golf Club

Past Captain’s Day

Lady Captain Noreen wishes all the past Lady Captains a great day this Saturday. Tee times from 11am are reserved for the ladies preceded by tea and scones in the clubhouse at 10.15am. The annual Past Captain’s dinner will take place at 7.30pm.

Ladies Winter Links

The ladies winter links commences on Thursday 26 th September. Book online on BRS or call the club house 074-915-9459

Play in Pink Ladies Open 4 th October

Breast Cancer Research is the recipient of all funds raised from this fun event.

Play in Pink is about rising awareness of breast cancer and research.

Fri 4 th October has been allocated as a Ladies Open to raise funds. Book online through BRS or call the club on 074-915-9459

October Re-Entry

All fees from the October Re-Entry competition will also be donated to the Breast Cancer Research fund. Remember, your first entry must be in a qualifying competition and thereafter for the rest of the month play as often as you can!

Results: 

Mary McDaid Trophy – Letterkenny Golf Club

Team Results

Winners – Team 6 – 101 pts Frances Shannon Portsalon, Kathleen Kelly Letterkenny, Hazel Russell Rosapenna.

Runners-Up team 5 – 95 pts Roseanne Logue Portsalon, Angela Kilgallen Letterkenny, Terri Martin Rosapenna.

3 rd – Team 7 91 pts Deirdre Hensey Portsalon, Lorna Reynolds Letterkenny, Terri McBride Rosapenna.

Overall Individual Winner – Gillian Dempsey Letterkenny 39 pts

Yellow ball Winners Team 1 – Lady Captain Noreen McConigley Portsalon, Lady Captain Anne Flannery Letterkenny, Vice Lady Captain Helena McBride Rosapenna.

Sunday Members Results

Winner – Anne Speedie 34 pts Bot

Runner-Up Mae Blaney 34 pts.

The post Ladies making hay in the sunshine at Portsalon Golf Club appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Charlie Bonner was a happy man at the Ballybofey and Stranorlar Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last.

The Glenswilly farmer (main pic) picked up 1st, 2nd and 3rd in 2024 in the Heifers competition, and landed the Champion Bull title.   

Clive Wasson was there to photograph all the action.

Michael Gallagher and TJ McCool at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Gerard McCool and Charlie Bonnar at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

1st Place 2024 and Show Champion owned by Charlie Bonnar at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

PJ Doherty, Anthony Doherty and Jonathan Lucas at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Clive Stevenson, Judge, Brian Crawford, Mart Manager and Chairlie Bonnar from Glenswilly and his 2024 Hiefer Reserve Champion at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Charlie Bonnar from Glenswilly and his 2024 Hiefer Show Champion with Brian Crawford, Mart Manager and Clive Stevenson, Judge, at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Richard Irwin, from Donegal Town and Clive Stevenson, Judge and the 2023 Champion Bull at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Richard Irwin, from Donegal Town with his 2023 Champion Bull at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Liam Hannighan, Jonathtan Hannigan and Pearse McNamee at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

TJ McCool and his 2024 Class winning heifer at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

Charlie Bonnar from Glenswilly and his 2024 Class Winning Bull with Brian Crawford, Mart Manager and Clive Stevenson, Judge, at the Stranorlar and Ballybofey Mart Weanling Sale on Monday last. Photo Clive Wasson

The post Pictures: Charlie cleans up at Ballybofey and Stranorlar Mart! appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A County Councillor has queried how ‘open’ one of Donegal’s busiest garda stations is.

Cllr Patrick McGowan raised the issue of opening hours at Ballybofey station at yesterday’s meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District (MD).

“Nine out of ten times I call the garda station in Ballybofey and I get put through to Letterkenny,” he claimed.

“Every time I go over the town I see people standing outside on their mobile phones – that’s not an ‘open’ station as far as I’m concerned. We were told at a meeting of the Joint Policing Committee (JPC) that Ballybofey is one of the busiest stations in Donegal and covers a big area.”

Cllr Martin Harley said he ‘totally agreed’ with him, adding that one family missed a holiday abroad because of issues with opening hours there.

“A family contacted me to say the passport office rang the (Ballybofey) station to verify their ID, but no one answered the phone so they did not get their documents issued in time,” Cllr Harley said.

“I advise people to contact Letterkenny Garda Station first as it is manned all the time.”

Cllr McGowan said the practice of the passport office contacting Gardai by phone was ‘Third World standard’ and that they should use email instead.

The post How ‘open’ is Ballybofey Garda Station? – Cllr McGowan appeared first on Donegal Daily.

One of Donegal’s best-kept secrets is about to go nationwide this week as the famous Football Special drinks arrive in Lidl stores.

From 19th September, people all over Ireland will get the chance to taste what we’ve been raving about for decades!

The launch will see 1lt bottles of Football Special, Exotic Pineapple and American Cream Soda in over 200 Lidl stores nationwide.

It’s all thanks to McDaid’s getting a ‘Kickstart’ from Lidl after winning a place on the retailer’s coveted Kickstart Supplier Development Programme.

A favourite refreshment since the 1940s, Football Special was developed by McDaids of Ramelton to help celebrate the numerous successes of the local football club, Swilly Rovers. The soft drinks are made from their original recipes from the 1940s and 1950s and contain no artificial sweeteners.

Now run by Seamus McDaid, this fourth-generation family soft drinks business blends nostalgia, flavour, and colour with Donegal’s free spirit to create a legendary Donegal brand. Over the years, Seamus McDaid and his team have worked closely with the Local Enterprise Office in Donegal.

Since its launch in 2016, Lidl has invested €30 million in supporting over 250 Irish businesses through the Kickstart programme.

The Corveen Glen Meat Company from Letterkenny is also among the 48 artisan producers selected by the retailer.

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