Advertisement

Did you know you could be entitled to a free eye and hearing test, plus significant discounts on glasses and hearing devices, thanks to your PRSI contributions?

Over 1.2 million Irish people have already benefited from the Treatment Benefit Scheme last year. Start the year off right and book your appointment at Specsavers in Letterkenny or Donegal Town today.

Tired of your old glasses? Fancy a new pair? Or perhaps you just want to ensure your sight and hearing are in top condition. Now’s the time to act.

Thousands of employed and self-employed people in Ireland qualify for PRSI treatment benefits. This means you could get a free eye test and a pair of free glasses from Specsavers’ €70 range. This includes standard single-vision lenses with a scratch-resistant treatment. You can also choose 1.5 Standard bifocal or 1.5 Standard varifocal lenses at no extra cost.

Instead of using your Medical Card or PRSI entitlement to get free glasses or glasses at a reduced price, you can alternatively use it as part-payment towards any of these great offers (you pay the difference between your entitlement value and the full price of the offer). Please note that if you choose the ‘top up’ price option, this cannot be used in conjunction with any other Specsavers offer.

• 2 for 1 glasses from €58 for single-vision lenses wearers, and from €84 for varifocal lenses wearers
• Free Reactions
• 2 for 1 designer glasses from €130
• Free UltraClear SuperClean treatment
• 20% off glasses for over-60s

• When requesting an appointment, give your PPS number to check your eligibility to a free eye/hearing test
• If you qualify under the Medical Card scheme, come into your store to complete an application form
• Specsavers will send the form off to the HSE for authorisation
• Once you get the form back, you can book your free tests

For more information on your PRSI benefits with Specsavers Donegal Town or Letterkenny, pop in store or call 0749715032 / 074 989 4008 or visit https://www.specsavers.ie/stores/donegaltown / https://www.specsavers.ie/stores/letterkenny

The post Now’s the time to claim PRSI benefits at Specsavers Donegal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Arranmore ferry operators have cancelled sailings for the rest of today (Monday) due to sea conditions.

The red and blue ferry services both halted sailings earlier this morning.

Services will not be running for the remainder of the day in the interest of the safety of passengers and crew.

Sea conditions remain very changeable today and a small craft warning is in place for all coasts due to gale force winds.

The post Rough seas force cancellation of Arranmore ferry services appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Lifestart Services are delighted to be expanding our service in Donegal and are currently recruiting for an exciting new initiative.

Lifestart Services CLG is a strengths-based home-visiting organisation and the aim of this initiative is to provide intensive parenting and family support for children, young people, and families in their own home and communitycommunity.

The Lifestart Services Social Care Workers will support Tusla practitioners in the provision of intensive family support to children, young people (aged pre-birth to 12 years of age) and their parents, who are experiencing adversity in response to individual and family needs throughout Donegal. 

• Social Care Worker – Initial 1-year Specified Purpose Contract

We are seeking to recruit a Social Care Worker to support Tusla Practitioners in the delivery of intensive family support to parents of children from pre-birth to 12 years of age throughout Donegal.

Post: 130-hour per month; working days, evenings and weekends with a county wide remit.         

The base for these roles is in the Lifestart Services Office, Main Street, Newtowncunningham, Co. Donegal, and/or other Lifestart Services Satellite Offices.

Salary: Aligned to the Social Care Worker PayScale (Pro-rata)

Probationary Period: 6 months 

The Lifestart Services Social Care Workers will ensure that the ethos, aims, objectives and actions of the organisation are fulfilled in line with service policies, procedures, and guidelines. 

The successful candidates will have (essential):

• QQI Level 7 or higher in social care or equivalent. 

• At least 2 years’ experience of delivering intensive family support is desirable.

• A clear understanding of referral pathways in Co. Donegal.

• Proven ability to network and work on an interagency basis.

• Excellent IT, Communication and Report Writing Skills.

• A clear understanding of the work of Lifestart Services and maintaining professional boundaries.

• A clean full driver’s licence.

Further information and application forms can be obtained by emailing Lifestart Services at: info@lifestartservices.org  

NB: CVs will not be accepted!

• Short listing criteria will apply
• A panel may be formed in the event of future posts becoming available

Closing date for applications: Friday 17th January 2025 at 12:30 noon.

Interviews will take place in the Lifestart Office, Newtowncunningham on Friday 24th January 2025.

All Contracts are subject to the continuation of funding.

Completed applications with a cover letter to be returned to the Regional Manager at: info@lifestartservices.org 

We are an equal opportunities employer and seek to promote equality of opportunity regardless of a person’s race, religion, political opinion, gender, visible or invisible disability, age, marriage, gender reassignment or sexual orientation.

Lifestart Services CLG Company No: 495841 CHY: 19946

Lifestart Services CLG Company No: 495841 CHY: 19946

The post Jobs: Social Care Workers sought for exciting new initiative appeared first on Donegal Daily.

All Donegal Winter Maintenance designated gritting routes will be gritted from 6pm this evening as temperatures plunge once again.

The Donegal gritting route index is as follows:

01: National Primary North
02: National Primary Central
03: National Primary South
04: Inishowen South
05: Inishowen East
06: Inishowen West
07: Milford South
08: Milford North
09: Cill Ulta East
10: Cill Ulta West
11: Na Rosa
12: Binswilly
13: Stranorlar North
14: Stranorlar East
15: Stranorlar West
16: Donegal West
17: Donegal North
18: Donegal South
19: Donegal National Secondary
BT: Buncrana Town
LT: Letterkenny Town

The post Donegal routes to be gritted from 6pm this evening (MON) appeared first on Donegal Daily.

The popular Abbey Hotel in Donegal Town has announced it is taking action against online trolls on social media.

The hotel, which hosts regular music and lively dancing nights, said that comments on certain videos have gotten out of hand.

The negative comments, they say, sometimes criticise the appearance of performers.

“There’s no reason to comment on anyone’s appearance, whether positively or negatively,” said the Abbey’s social media team in a recent post.

“Recently, we’ve had to delete a number of negative comments on our videos, particularly those featuring our performers.”

“We’d like to kindly ask everyone to think before commenting,” they added.

“Any negative remarks about someone’s appearance will be deleted, and the person responsible will be blocked immediately. Some of you may not mind this, but for those who follow us for hotel updates, jiving videos, videos of bands etc…we’d hate for you to lose access to our content because of a comment.”

The Abbey Hotel concluded by thanking the community for their support and understanding: “Let’s keep this space respectful and uplifting for everyone.”

The post Donegal hotel urges followers to be kind on social media appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Experienced plumbers are currently sought for domestic and commercial work in Donegal.

The positions are Full-Time and at least five years experience is required.

For further information, please call Stephen on 0877607117.

The post Job Vacancies: Full-time experienced plumbers required appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Former Donegal and Derry GAA manager Rory Gallagher will not be coaching Naas.

It had been reported widely that Gallagher was to become a coach for the Kildare side for the 2025 season.

Gallagher looked set to work under Naas manager Joe Murphy at the Kildare club as they aim to make it five county title successes in a row and have a real crack at the Leinster championship.

However, RTÉ Sport has now reported Gallagher will not now be part of the backroom staff this year.

Gallagher stepped back from his role as Derry manager in May 2023 following serious allegations regarding his private life.

In a social media posting, Gallagher’s former wife Nicola claimed she had been the victim of domestic violence over a period of years during their marriage.

Gallagher stated that any allegations against him had been investigated and no charges were brought.

Last September, Gallagher, through his lawyer, released a statement stating he “fully intends to return to inter-county management in the near future” amid links to a Derry return.

However, Paddy Tally ultimately replaced the outgoing Mickey Harte in the Oak Leaf hot seat.

The post GAA: Rory Gallagher will NOT be coaching Naas appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Stewart and MacLochlainn are a leading firm of Chartered Certified Accountants and registered auditors based in Letterkenny.

We have the following employment opportunities available. 

Newly Qualified/Recently Qualified Accountant

We wish to recruit an experienced accountant for the above position.

Candidates should have at least 3-4 years’ experience in an accountancy practice.

The ideal candidate would have experience in the preparation of accounts and tax returns. The successful candidates will report to partner and should be able to work on their own initiative.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a long-established firm and work with a wide range of clients.

Salary commensurate with experience. This is a full-time position. 

Accounts Assistant/Part Qualified Accountant

We wish to recruit an accounts assistant/part qualified accountant with at least 2 years’ experience.

The successful candidate will work closely with team members on client accounts, bookkeeping and tax returns etc. They will deal with client queries and questions. Previous experience in an accountancy practice would be an advantage but is not essential. 

To apply: please email your CV, to martin@saml.ie . All applications will be dealt with promptly and in the strictest of confidence. Closing date for receipt of applications 27th January 2025

The post Jobs: Accounting opportunities at leading Letterkenny firm appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Following 27 years in business, Danny and Mary McLaughlin have announced their retirement from Carndonagh Nursery & Garden Centre.

The business has been acquired by Spraoi agus Spórt, a community-based social enterprise, who have exciting plans to maintain the centre’s presence within the community.

The former owners say they are delighted that the garden centre is remaining in the community and that all jobs are protected.

“It is wonderful that ownership of the nursery and centre remains in the community,” says Spraoi agus Spórt CEO, Helen Nolan. “It was something that Danny and Mary wanted, and we are very proud that we were able to make that happen. There was a fear that if the space sold, it would no longer remain as a garden centre for the area.”

“Danny and Mary have followed the journey of Spraoi agus Spórt and wanted the space to support our work with people with disability. The business will remain an operating garden centre ensuring their staff’s jobs are protected, and business as usual for their longstanding customers. Access to a garden centre space, facilities and staff knowledge also offers exciting new possibilities for Spraoi agus Spórt.”

Former Carndonagh Nursery and Garden Centre Owners Danny and Mary McLaughlin hand over keys to Spraoi agus Spórt CEO Helen Nolan and Chair Patricia Lee

On-site horticultural training is among the plans that Spraoi agus Spórt have for the nursery and garden centre. As with all Spraoi agus Spórt activities, the training will be inclusive of people with disability and autism. Programmes will teach people of various ages how to grow their own plants for food. These will include transition year students and those undertaking the Leaving Cert Applied.

A sensory garden will be developed if Spraoi agus Spórt is successful with a funding application from the Community Recognition Fund. After-school clubs and ‘Get Gardening’ clubs are also in their plans.

Helen says the long-term vision of Spraoi agus Spórt is to make the Carndonagh Nursery & Garden Centre a destination space.

“We want the garden centre to be a welcoming place for both locals and visitors. We plan for it to be used as a community meeting space. Sustainability is at the heart of Spraoi agus Spórt’s focus, so we have plans for a farmers’ market that will promote locally grown produce. It can also sell the vegetables grown by our local young people as part of their on-site programmes.”

“We want to assure existing customers that their needs will still be met, and outstanding gift vouchers will be honoured. We look forward to welcoming those customers and providing the same great customer service. Meanwhile, we hope to attract new customers and others who can benefit from this space. We foresee the garden centre as being a vibrant place that people will want to come to all year round. We plan to use it for many Spraoi agus Spórt events.”

Patricia Lee, Chair of Spraoi agus Spórt, says the garden centre is a perfect fit with the work of the organisation. “As a social enterprise, it is important to scale deep and have impact within our own community. Children with disability that we began working with 14 years ago are now adults with differing needs. As a board and staff team, our long-term goal was always to facilitate meaningful employment for them. The garden centre will help provide that, starting with training opportunities.”

“Danny and Mary put their life’s work into Carndonagh Nursery & Garden Centre. It was their heart and soul. They can now retire peacefully knowing that their beloved business is in good hands with Spraoi agus Spórt.”

“We wish to thank Kieran Gillespie, AIB NW Business Centre, in conjunction with the local AIB Carndonagh Branch, for their support with the purchase of our new business venture. We also want to thank A&L Goodbody for all their pro bono help and support on this project, especially Aoife Redmond and Sam Sheridan.” 

“Spraoi agus Spórt hope that the local community will support us in this exciting venture. As a social enterprise all proceeds generated by the nursery and garden centre will be reinvested in our services, which is good news for local families, children and young people.”

The post New growth for Carndonagh garden centre as McLaughlins retire after 27 years appeared first on Donegal Daily.

More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony recently.

National Learning Network is a progressive leader in the delivery of personalised education. In collaboration with Donegal ETB, the service provides a diverse range of vocational programmes for people requiring additional supports.

On the day, students were presented with QQI certificates having completed various inclusive training programmes, which aim to develop their personal, social and work-related skills, enabling them to secure jobs or go on to further or higher education.

The event was attended by representatives from Donegal Education and Training Board and National Learning Network, Mayor of Letterkenny Councillor Gerry McMonigle, stakeholders, staff, family and friends.

NLN Letterkenny manager Dawn Patterson said: “We are immensely proud of all the students who have achieved their goals and overcome their personal challenges. Today’s award ceremony celebrates the unwavering support of their families, NLN staff and our partners in education, Donegal ETB. This hard work and commitment have led to each student receiving a nationally recognised QQI award.”

Donegal ETB students receive certificates for completing supportive training courses with NLN. More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony in December. pictrured are staff and invited guests.
Photo Clive Wasson

Donegal ETB students receive certificates for completing supportive training courses with NLN. More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony in December. pictured are staff and invited guests with students who completed the Employability Skills course.
Photo Clive Wasson

Donegal ETB students receive certificates for completing supportive training courses with NLN. More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony in December. pictured are staff and invited guests with students who completed the Retails Skills course. Photo Clive Wasson

Donegal ETB students receive certificates for completing supportive training courses with NLN. More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony in December. pictured are staff and invited guests with students who completed the Public Speaking Course course. Photo Clive Wasson

Donegal ETB students receive certificates for completing supportive training courses with NLN. More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony in December. pictured are staff, invited guests and students who received their certificates.
Photo Clive Wasson

Students from various NLN vocational training courses attended on the day to receive their awards, which range from levels 3 – 5 on the national framework of qualifications.

Vinny McGroary, Area Training Manager, Donegal ETB, congratulated all the students on their achievements and acknowledged the hurdles they had to overcome to do so, highlighted the immense contribution of training partners, the NLN, who provide an excellent personalised service to all the students.

Vinny added, “The unique partnership and collaboration between the learners, their families, local employers and the staff of the NLN working alongside Donegal ETB, the Department of Social Protection and other stakeholders is hugely important.

“Having listened to the speakers at the event which included students, an employer and a parent of one of the award recipients, it was obvious to all present how important these relationships are in contributing to the development and achievements of the students in a wide range of areas”, he added.

The popular Employability Skills course is designed to give students a baseline of skills needed for employment and further education in today’s modern world. The Retail Skills course gives students a fantastic insight into the key elements involved in the retail sector with modules such as stock control, retail sales techniques, and customer service, skills which are transferable into all aspects of working life. The IT and Business course provides students with an overview of all the processes and applications needed to run a modern office.

NLN offers fully-funded courses to people aged from 16 to 65 who need additional support including people who have a mental health issue, autism, or who have had an accident, illness, injury, or have a physical or learning disability. Vocational training courses are funded by Donegal Education and Training Board. NLN Letterkenny is located at Rossview Business Park.

NLN’s range of certified courses are tailored to each student’s needs, to help them to build their confidence while gaining practical skills in order to get a job or go on to further or higher education. NLN operates on continuous intake, which means people can begin a course at a time that suits them. There are no CAO points required.

Visit www.nln.ie to find out more or email: letterkenny@nln.ie

The post “Momentous day” as Donegal ETB students receive NLN certs for supportive training courses appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Donegal’s trucking community is gearing up for a major charity run on Saturday, February 8th, to raise funds for the Raphoe Community Playgroup and Donegal Hospice.

The event will feature a truck run, auction, and dance, all taking place at the Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny.

The truck run will begin at 3pm, followed by the auction and dance at 8pm. Doors open at 7pm.

The event will feature live music from Paul Kelly & Band with Paddy Tracey and Karl Kilpatrick, followed by DJ entertainment from JD Disco.

Tickets for the truck run are €30 and can be purchased by contacting Colin Kilpatrick at 085 105 9155.

Tickets for the dance and auction alone are also available for €15. Contact Colin to get yours.

All truckers and friends are invited to come out for a day and night of impressive displays, great craic and entertainment in support of two important local causes.

Details on the huge array of lots for auction and much more are available on the Facebook page: Trucking for Donegal

The post Truckers hitting the road for Donegal Hospice and Raphoe Community Playgroup appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A man is to stand trial charged with causing serious harm to another man during an incident in Castlefinn.

Ryan Campbell appeared before Letterkenny District Court.

Garda Pauline Doherty told the court that she served a book of evidence on Campbell at Letterkenny Courthouse.

The 24-year-old accused is charged that on an unknown date between July 24th and July 25th, 2022, at Longbrae, Castlefinn, he intentionally or recklessly caused serious harm to Robert Kennedy.

The charge is Contrary to Section 4 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act of 1997.

Garda Sergeant Gerard Dalton told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions had consented for the accused to the sent forward for trial to the next siting of Letterkenny Circuit Court commencing on February 4th.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham gave Campbell, with an address at Castlerea Prison, the alibi warning.

She also granted an application from Campbell’s solicitor, Mr Patsy Gallagher, for two counsel for the accused man’s forthcoming trial.

The case was adjourned until the next sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court.

The post Man to stand trial over Castlefinn assault appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Advertisement

Ireland’s leading provider of home care services, Home Instead, is seeking applications from dedicated, compassionate people across Donegal who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older people who need support to help them live safe and well at home and in their community.

The organisation is aiming to increase the number of professional CAREGivers in Donegal, particularly in the Killybegs/Donegal Town area, and bring its renowned relationship-based approach to care to more people than ever in 2025.

Valuing individuality

Home Instead CAREGivers provide a vital service to a wide variety of people in Donegal and help them to continue to live independent lives in their own community. The organisation is encouraging applications from people from all walks of life who are as individual as their clients.

“We are lucky to have people from 68 different countries working as CAREGivers up and down the country, and we value each and every one of their unique experiences and needs,” Alison Hegarty, General Manager at Home Instead Donegal, said.

“We encourage people to share what makes them who they are and bring those characteristics and life learnings to their role as CAREGivers, and we are proud to celebrate the individuality of every single one of our staff in Donegal,” she continued.

“We also recognise that each CAREGiver has distinct needs and circumstances, and that is why we offer flexible schedules that enable them to fit their valuable work around their lives,” she added.

Further to flexible schedules and competitive rates of pay, Home Instead CAREGivers receive a range of benefits that help them provide the highest quality of care possible. CAREGivers undergo best-in-class training, receive dedicated office support and have clear opportunities and encouragement to progress in their careers.

Caring for the local community

Home Instead CAREGivers deliver a range of non-medical care services, from companionship and connection to specialised dementia and palliative care, to older people in Donegal. Further to keeping them safe and well while living independent lives at home, the support CAREGivers provide can also facilitate early hospital discharge and, in some instances, prevent people from being hospitalised in the first place.

“Social interaction and companionship are crucial to maintaining good mental health and helping to prevent cognitive decline, particularly in older people,” Ms Hegarty said. “Working as a Home Instead CAREGiver is a rewarding and meaningful career that provides a vital service to those older adults who need it most, particularly during the winter months,” she concluded.

People interested in exploring a career in care are encouraged to get in touch with their local Donegal office by calling 074 911 3050 or by visiting www.homeinstead.ie/career-options

The post Home Instead recruiting new CAREGivers in Donegal this January appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Letterkenny podcasters Vinny McLaughlin and Marty Brogan have given a New Year’s boost to a fundraiser for six-year-old Ruby Kiernan Houston.

Little Ruby, 6, is battling advanced aggressive cancer after being diagnosed last autumn.

A major campaign is underway to raise funds to support Ruby and her parents, Seany and Alana, during her treatment.

Vinny and Marty of the V&M Podcast went above and beyond in October when they hosted a 24 live podcast in aid of ‘Ruby’s Fight for Life’.

The lads endured a long night of interviews, chatting and entertainment to keep the donations coming in. The challenge was a great success with €7,200 raised over the day.

Vinny and Marty presented the cheque to Ruby’s dad, Seany, last Saturday (pictured above).

“It’s all for Ruby,” they said, thanking all business sponsors and individuals who supported the event.

“A massive thank you to each and every person that tuned in, sent well wishes and most importantly, donated.”

“We want to wish Ruby, Seany and Alana all the best for their journey, the whole country is behind you in your fight.

“A special thanks to our manager, Jason Quigley, who is leading the growth of our podcast and helping us create opportunities like this to give back to great causes.”

The long and difficult battle continues for little Ruby and donations are still required and greatly appreciated. If you would like to support the family, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/akb9a-rubys-fight-for-life

V&M podcast is produced by Pauric McGranaghan from @contentby_p

The post ‘All for Ruby’ – Podcasters present €7,200 to parents of little cancer warrior appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Former European champion and Irish Olympian David Gillick has been confirmed as the special guest for the Donegal Sports Star awards that take place later this month.

A European Indoor Gold medallist in 2005 and 2007, the Dublin native was delighted to be named as the guest on the night, which takes place in the Mount Errigal Hotel on January 31.

“I am looking forward to it, these events are so important and it’s good to have it after Christmas so it doesn’t get lost in the madness.

“A lot of people have put in a lot of effort and to be welcoming a Dub up is nice as well!

“From my standpoint from playing GAA, Donegal always had that tradition but then in Athletics there was always athletes coming through in Donegal and the people there from Patsy McGonagle to Teresa McDaid and there’s loads more who have given their heart and soul to athletics and the Olympians mentioned there are really important to highlight.

“There was someone in a school or local club that enticed those people to get out and run a lap or something and that’s why it is important to celebrate these things.”

Gillick started athletics at a young age with his local club Dundrum South Dublin AC.

Impressing as a teenager, Madrid in 2005 was a huge moment in his career as he won gold in the 400m at the European Indoors at the age of just 2021, backing it up two years later in the same event in Birmingham.

Gillick also represented Ireland at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing as he failed to make it out of his heat and retired initially in 2013 before making a return in 2016 for the European Championships in Amsterdam but didn’t have the sort of impact he would have liked.

But there have been plenty of highlights in what was an incredibly successful career.

“Madrid was brilliant but it came as a surprise and suddenly you have to back it up or people think you’re a one-hit wonder so I probably struggled with what came with that, the expectations and pressure.

“So 2007 probably meant more to me and when you taste success, you want more and you have to go through that slog again.

“But in 2009, making the World final and coming sixth I would put down as my biggest moment because of the level I was at, I always wanted to get to a world final, medals are great and podiums are the stuff of dreams but where I really wanted to get to was the top eight in the world.”

Since then, he has been a huge part of the RTÉ team covering athletics and provided superb coverage during the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

There were near misses on the athletics track and many of his interviews were well dealt with as he had to console the heartbroken Irish athletes.

“Unless you’ve walked the walk then you don’t really get a sense of what they are going through, athletics is one of those sports where success and failure isn’t defined by a medal, it can be about your personal best or where you’re ranked in a race.

“So that’s something you have to try and get across to put context on the performances. I know the journey and what it’s like when you come off the track and people are trying to converse with you on a performance you mightn’t be overly happy about.

“And we have grown with RTÉ to have a presence at the whole Olympic Games rather than just for the Irish races and be able to interact with the superstars, the Noah Lyles’ and Femke Bol’s, so people don’t have to switch channels to get those interviews.

“For the Irish athletes when you see a familiar face it maybe helped to relax them and if you show empathy you get it back in spades.”

But 2024 will be remembered as the best Olympics to date for Ireland and Gillick feels there has been a huge boost to minority sports from the Games.

Donegal were also well represented in Paris as they had three competitors in Mark English (800m), Kelly McGrory (Women’s 4x400m Relay) and Rachael Darragh (Badminton).

“The last couple of years we have seen our minority sports do well and we are a sporting nation but it was always geared around three sports but now when you look deeper, the sports we’re doing well in is fantastic and 2024 amplified that.

“We’re at the top end in a lot of sports and it got the public behind sports they wouldn’t be familiar with and it has made people sports stars.”

Tickets priced at €35 for adults and €20 for Primary school going children are available solely from the Mount Errigal Hotel (074 9106700).

The post David Gillick confirmed as special guest for Donegal Sports Star Awards appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Motorists and pedestrians have once again been issued with a severe warning this morning following severe ice and snow across Donegal overnight.

A number of school bus companies including McGettigans in Letterkenny and Michael Friel coaches have decided to cancel their services today.

They say that road conditions in and around housing estates are simply treacherous and cannot be reached.

Many other routes are also very dangerous including the main Lifford to Letterkenny Road as well as the Back of Errigal Road.

Gardai have advised motorists to take extra care when traveling even if roads so seem passable.

There are numerous reports of black ice with several vehicles already left roads in a number of towns and villages across the county.

Parents of children in pre-schools, primary and secondary schools are being advised to check the social media pages of their schools to clarify if schools are open.

Donegal County Council has deployed its team of gritters to treat roads across the county from 6am his morning.

A severe cold weather warning has been issued for Met Eireann until at least Thursday for across the country.

The post Black ice and snow has left many roads treacherous across Donegal appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A new Status Orange weather warning is likely to be issued, according to Met Éireann, as conditions are expected to become “extremely cold”.

Temperatures are forecast to drop as low as between -7C and -3C tonight. Locally these temperatures could drop even lower.

A Status Yellow cold weather warning in currency in place.

It will be another very cold day across Ulster with sunny intervals and scattered wintry showers. Frost, ice and lying snow will persist in some areas all day. Highest temperatures of just 1 to 5 degrees in light to moderate northwesterly winds, fresher at times near exposed coasts.

Tonight will be ‘extremely cold’ and largely dry tonight though a few wintry showers will occur. Lowest temperatures of -7 to -3 degrees with a severe frost and icy stretches. Light variable breezes will allow patches of freezing fog to develop.

Tomorrow will start with a bitterly cold morning with widespread frost and ice along with patches of freezing fog, lingering in places through the day. Otherwise, there will be sunny periods and scattered wintry showers. Highest temperatures of 0 to 4 degrees with mostly light northerly breezes.

Met Éireann said there is likely to be a break in the weather on Thursday night through to Friday morning.

However the timing of this is not certain yet, they warned, but the weekend should see temperatures rise to between six and ten degrees.

The post Weather warning to be upgraded as ‘extremely cold’ conditions expected appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following a hit-and-run road traffic collision near Whitehouse Cross, Dromiskin, Co. Louth yesterday.

At approximately 6.25pm Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a collision, involving a vehicle and a cyclist, on the R132 in Dromiskin, Co. Louth.

The cyclist, a man aged in his 40s, was brought to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda to be treated for serious injuries.

The vehicle involved failed to remain at the scene and the driver has yet to come forward.

The scene remains closed pending a technical examination and local diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward.

In addition, road users who may have dash-cam footage of the incident from 6.15pm to 6.45pm or were travelling on the Old Dublin Road between Castlebellingham and Dundalk are also urged to contact Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on (041) 6853222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

The post National: Gardai hunt driver after cyclist seriously injured in hit-and-run appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Power outages are currently affecting almost 400 customers in north Donegal and Inishowen this morning.

In the Milford area, 316 properties have been without electricity since 8:30 am.

ESB says they are working to repair the fault and estimate power will be restored by 10:45am.

Meanwhile, a further 30 customers in Buncrana have had no supply since 4:47am, but it is hoped their power will be reconnected within the next hour.

The post Almost 400 customers without power in north of county appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Boxing stalwart Peter O’Donnell last night launched the 2024 Donegal Sports Star Awards last night in the Mount Errigal Hotel.

O’Donnell, who has been a regular supporter of the event and has won awards on multiple occasions, was delighted to accept the honour.

A widely known boxing man in the county and throughout the country, he won the Team Manager of the Year in 2015 after a good medal haul from Irish Boxers at the European Elite Men’s Championship in Samokov, Bulgaria.

And for his constant work with the Boxing community he also won an appreciation award in 2012.

“It’s a great privilege for anybody to be asked to launch such a big event, it’s a real honour and I appreciate that,” O’Donnell said.

“I started Boxing in 1962 along with my brothers in Derry and it became like a drug when you got into it, you just couldn’t get away from it.”

Declan Kerr who was the compere at the Donegal Sportstar Awards launch. (North West Newspix)

Grace Boyle, Chairperson of the Donegal Sport Star Awards committee. (North West Newspix)

Peter O’Donnell receiving a presentation from Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sport Star Awards Committee) and Caorthlaith of Donegal, Cllr Niamh Kennedy. Also in photo os Donegal County Council Director Micheál McGarvey. (North West Newspix)

Cathoarleach Cllr Naimh Kennedy speaking at the launch of the Donegal Sports Star Awards. (North West Newspix)

Cathoarleach Cllr Naimh Kennedy speaking at the launch of the Donegal Sports Star Awards. (North West Newspix)

Donegal County Council Director Micheál McGarvey speaking at the launch of the Donegal Sports Stars Awards. (North West Newspix)

Kevin McBrearty receiving a momente of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest) and Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee. (North West Newspix)

JOsie Gallagher receiving a momente of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Jimmy Patton receiving a momente of his late fahter Brian’s achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Joyce McMullin receiving a momente of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Charlie Lapsley receiving a momento of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Members of the Gweedore CS from 1984 receiving a momento of their achievement as a recipients of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Frank Rodgers receiving a momento of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Seamus Doherty receiving a momente of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are race Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee ), Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Danny McLaughlin eceiving a momente of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are , Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee) and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Members of the Donegal VS team of 1984 receiving a momente of their achievement as a recipients of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Joe Higgins receiving a momento of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC) and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Dorothy McGinley receiving a momento of her late uncle Anthony McGinley’s achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC) and Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy. (North West Newspix)

Joe Bar receiving a momento of his achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC) and Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy. (North West Newspix)

Recipients of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984 pictured at the launch of this years Awards. Included in photo are Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee), Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest) and Cathaorleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy at the launch of the Donegal Sports Star Awards. (North West Newspix)

Doris Crawford, on behalf of her slate brother Noel McAuley, receiving a momento of her achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Peter Campbell receiving a momento of his late fahter Brian’s achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

Caroline Smith, on belaf of her sister Berndatte Gallagher, receiving a momento of her achievement as a recipient of the Donegal Sports Star Award in 1984. Included in photo are Cathoarleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Micheál McGarvey (DCC), Grace Boyle (Chairperson Donegal Sports Star Awards Committee and Peter O’Donnell (Special Guest). (North West Newspix)

O’Donnell hung up the gloves for a while as he worked in the construction trade and he moved to Raphoe in 1972 with his wife Pauline.

There were a couple of years in between and it took a while then before himself, the late Brendan Ryan and Tommy Stewart set up the Boxing club in the Diamond town, but in 1987 they did just that.

And O’Donnell is still going strong, coaching the next generation of young boxers.

“Convoy had just started a club a year or two before and Gerry Daly asked me if I’d be wise to start a club when it’s so close to there.

“But we gave it a run and it took off and we’re going into our 37th year in January so it has gone well.

“There’s a good committee and volunteers there and we have a good clubhouse.

“I’m still working away at the club and I’ve been in as President of the County Board since 2012, I had previously spells in during the 80s and 90s but someone has to keep the show on the road.

“We have our 75th anniversary after being formed in St Conal’s Hospital in 1950 so we’ll have a big celebration in Jackson’s Hotel in September so we’ll look forward to that milestone next year.”

But celebrations will also take place at 6pm in the Mount Errigal Hotel on January 6 at the launch of the 49th anniversary of the Sports Star Awards.

As part of the launch the winners of 1984 will be honoured to mark the 40th anniversary of their successes when the presentations were made in the Milford Inn.

“It’s great to have the awards, they have been going for nearly 50 years and it’s a credit to the past and present members who have kept it going all those years.

“I feel it’s always a great reunion for the sports people of Donegal and it’s a big event in the sporting calendar up here, I enjoy it every year.

“There are standout stars in nearly every sport in Donegal and I don’t think that the volunteers get enough credit for the work they do, especially school teachers and the time they give year in, year out to get teenagers into sport, it’s great for them to be recognised.

Boxing was always well looked after and there were a few overall winners like Patrick O’Donnell of Gweedore, William McLaughlin from Illies and Jason Quigley in Finn Valley.”

The post Boxing impresario Peter O’Donnell launches 2024 Donegal Sports Star Awards – Pic Special appeared first on Donegal Daily.