Dancing with the Stars finalist Danny O’Carroll has opened up about how he almost quit the series “a couple of times” and admits the show is “an emotional rollercoaster”.

The Dublin, who lives in Donegal, says he does not personally want to lift the Glitterball.

BUt he said he would truly love to win if for his professional partner and mentor, Salome Chachua, who has reached the final on three occasions.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s grand finale, the 41-year old explained how he and the remaining contestants – Rhys McClenaghan, Kayleigh Trappe and Jack Woolley – are already winners in his eyes.

“I said it to the rest of the finalists. We can’t go any further, we’ve done the series. We’re all winners – so it doesn’t really matter what happens.”

He continued: “Do I have a personal goal to lift the Glitterball? I’ll be honest I’ve no interest in lifting it, but I’d love to do it for Salome. The work that she does just blows me away and the fact that she does this every year.

“This is the third time she’s been in the final and she’s never lifted the Glitterball trophy before. So, I’d love to in person give it to her,” he said.

O’Carroll: “I’ll be honest I’ve no interest in lifting it, but I’d love to do it for Salome”

Danny, who lives in Donegal with his two teenage sons and partner Tina, said he really struggled being away from his family.

“My two boys and my partner Tina – they’ve walked through this whole thing with me from day one. As much as I’ve struggled being away from them, they also struggled back in Donegal. They missed me but they pushed me so much to keep going.

“I nearly gave up a couple of times. I just missed everything at home. I’m the only one that’s here that doesn’t go back to their families every night.”

Reflecting on the experience, O’Carroll said “it’s been tough, but it’s been amazing”.

“It’s really hard to explain. When you get through every week it’s the most amazing feeling, but then you realise you’re not getting home again and you have to go through the whole process of learning a new dance again, along with going through all of the nerves every weekend again,” he said.

O’Carroll added: “But when it’s done, and you’ve done the dance, it’s the most amazing euphoria. It’s an emotional rollercoaster this show, that’s the best way I can explain it.”

“But, long story short, I think we’re all winners,” he concluded.

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The Inishowen firm at the centre of the defective concrete crisis says it will now consent to a court application to turn over its documents to the Local Authority.

Donegal County Council brought an application to access the records of Cassidy Brothers Concrete Ltd before Buncrana District Court. It was the second time the application was brought after it was initially adjourned following an objection in February.

Detective Sergeant Garda Killian Callaghan told the court that he was moving the application on behalf of the Council.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham recalled how the matter came before her last month, when Cassidy Bros Ltd had signalled its intention not to consent.

“This is a matter which came before me on a previous occasion and there was an objection on behalf of Cassidy Brothers in relation to it,” the judge remarked.

However, Kerry-based solicitor Eamonn Dillon, representing Cassidys, said his client now consents to the Council’s records application on certain conditions.

“Myself and my colleague have had a discussion and we’re consenting to the matter, subject to the transfer being shared with both parties,” Mr Dillon informed the judge.

Judge Cunningham said she would grant the order on that basis.

“Thank you, judge,” said Mr Dillon before leaving the courtroom.

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The public is being asked to consider all care options this St Patrick’s Day weekend as hospitals prepare for a busy period.

Emergency departments are expecting higher than normal attendances due to the bank holiday weekend and the HSE is calling for the public’s patience during long wait times.

Teams will continue to assist patients in moving as quickly as possible through the hospital system if they require hospital care.

This includes actions to support patients avoid ED admission, improving the experience of patients while in ED, ensuring effective movement within the hospitals and timely discharge to community services and other care supports.

“We know this is usually a very busy weekend in our health services has but we have plans in place across hospital and community services to ensure patients can access the care they need in the right setting,” a spokesperson said.

“If you urgently need to see a GP over the bank holiday weekend you should contact your local out of hours GP service. NoWDOC will operate in Donegal and South Leitrim, Caredoc in Sligo and Westdoc will be operation in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon from Friday evening until Tuesday morning. You can find your local GP out-of-hours service at https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-gp-out-of-hours/. Clinics are by appointment only so please call the relevant number to book one in advance of attendance.

“Additionally in Donegal the CIT (Community Interventions Team), a specialist health professional team, offers an extended service from 8am to 8pm, seven days per week and can be contacted in Donegal on 074 9109257 / 086 1082129.

“The CIT provides acute, short term nursing interventions, including wound management, oncology care, medication administration and management, patient education and support to promote self-management of catheters and stoma care.

“You can also access a range of support and advice at your local pharmacy. “

Another option of care is injury units, which treat non life-threatening injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds and minor burns. You can find your local injury unit at www.hse.ie/injuryunits

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has advised that Bank Holiday weekends also see an increase in call outs and are also urging the public to consider all care pathways in advance of contacting them. Community Paramedics continue to operate in Donegal, Mayo and Roscommon.

Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West has asked that all avenues of care be explored in advance of attending your local ED. “Bank Holiday weekends usually result in increased attendances at our hospitals. To help alleviate this, we would ask that all care options available considered before attending your local ED.

“Care options include GP out-of-hours services, local pharmacies and injury units. However, if you do have a genuine emergency please go to your local hospital where you will be seen,” he said.

Meanwhile Dr Áine McNamara, Regional Director of Public Health, HSE West and North West had the following advice “There are respiratory illnesses and the winter vomiting bug, norovirus, circulating in our community. Take care if visiting those more vulnerable in hospitals or residential care facilities this bank holiday weekend. If you are feeling unwell you should avoid visiting until you are better and take care to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of spread of infections.”

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The family of the late Danielle McLaughlin say they are marking the eighth anniversary of her murder entering a “new unknown chapter” after her killer’s landmark trial.

Justice was finally won for Danielle last month when the man responsible for her murder was handed two life sentences.

Vikat Bhagat, 31, was found guilty of the rape and murder of Danielle on the 14th of March 2017 in Goa, India, when she was 28 years old.

Danielle’s mother, Andrea Brannigan, and her sisters have said that they will never forgive her killer for what he took from them.

“He made sure we never truly got to say goodbye to Danielle, the Danielle we saw wasn’t Danielle and that we could never even hold her hand. Her younger sisters weren’t even allowed to see her and that was all because of what he put her through, for that we will never understand the lengths he went to to hurt such an innocent and loving soul,” they said  today.

Ms Brannigan, Danielle’s sister Joleen McLaughlin Brannigan and Danielle’s best friend Louise McMenamin were in the court in India when the eight-year trial of Vikat Bhagat came to a close.

They travelled to India to come face-to-face with the accused, and to visit areas of Goa that Danielle loved.

Referencing femicide in Ireland, they said: “Since 1996, 275 women have lost their lives violently at the hands of another and shocking 9 out of 10 of these women knew their killer.

“Danielle knew Vikat for over a year, she thought she could trust him and that she was safe in his presence. I think that’s what makes it harder, knowing she considered him her friend and he betrayed that trust so cruelly and made sure we would never see Danielle again.”

They said that Danielle will never be forgotten by all who knew her, including her younger sisters who she referred to as her girls.

“We will never see her big smile or hear another of her travel stories. She will never come home to ‘her girls’. She has missed out on so much these past 8 years. We are so thankful that he will not be able to steal another life.

“We felt Danielle so strongly in India and it felt so nice going to places we always thought would be from Danielle’s stories or seeing the places from her pictures.”

They said that Danielle’s tragic death has had a monumental influence on the community of Goa and the legal system, expressing deep gratitude to the Goan law enforcement and legal teams.

“Danielle changed Goa just like she changed every person she ever met’s life. In Goa, she was the first foreigner to have her murderer arrested the first day and have him convicted,” they said.

Looking to the future after the trial and the poignant trip to India, the family said: “We are numb and unsure really of how to feel since the sentencing as now this new unknown chapter has finally begun.”

The post Danielle McLaughlin’s family enters ‘unknown chapter’ on eighth anniversary appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A number of animals are feared dead following a large fire in East Donegal last night.

The fire started on a farm in the Lettergull area of Raphoe.

Nobody was hurt during the blaze.

A Garda spokesperson confirmed “Gardaí and emergency services attended a fire that occurred at a property in the Lettergull area of Co. Donegal on the 13th March 2025 at approximately 11pm.

“No injuries have been reported at this time.

“The scene has been preserved and a technical examination will follow. Investigations are ongoing.”

The property on which the blaze broke out belongs to a well-known local farmer.

The post Dozens of animals feared dead following blaze on Raphoe farm appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Club captain Seamus Coleman has been named a patron of @EdsaEfc!

He surprised members of the fan group who were enjoying a recent familiarisation tour of the Blues’ new stadium! pic.twitter.com/FSCvjjYBnw

— Everton Stadium (@EvertonStadium) March 12, 2025

Video: @EvertonStadium

Everton FC captain Seamus Coleman has been named a patron of the Everton Disabled Supporters’ Association.

The Killybegs man said he was proud to accept the “massive honour” of playing a part in improving the matchday experience for fans with disabilities.

Coleman didn’t waste any time in getting to meet some of those fans at Everton Stadium recently.

Surprising fans during a familiarisation tour of the Blues’ new stadium Coleman posed for pictures and heard the first-hand experiences of members as they checked out the new accessible facilities.

Speaking to Everton FC News, Coleman said: “They’re all thanking me but it’s a massive honour, and I’ve always wanted to play a big part in supporting groups like EDSA in my time at the Club.

“Seeing how much they have enjoyed the tour, and learning how their matchday experience will improve here, it’s been a really enjoyable day.”

The post Watch: Seamus Coleman celebrates ‘massive honour’ of supporting disabled Everton fans appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Tonight’s edition of Nationwide on RTE will be heading to Fanad Lighthouse for some jigs and reels from Donegal.

Celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge, the show will feature the Gallagher Sisters from Fanad, who have turned their love of Irish dance into a story of success.

Samantha and Victoria set up their own Irish dance school, Scoil Rince Ní Ghallchóir, two years ago, reigniting a passion for dance in the community and now eight of their students are preparing to compete at the WIDA World Championships in Belgium this April.

They’ll be sharing their story and showcasing their skill in a segment rich with culture.

Catch RTE Nationwide at 7pm this Friday evening on RTE One.

Photo: Scoil Rince Ní Ghallchóir / Gaeltacht Bheo Fhánada

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Read DL 2025 drew to a close yesterday in beautiful Glenveagh National Park.

In attendance was the author of this year’s book, Stewart Foster who met with Drumman NS Ramelton, Loreto Convent Letterkenny and St. Patrick’s Girls School, Carndonagh, the three successful schools out of those who applied to perform for him on the day.

The ceremony brought to a close the six week school and community literacy project where 85 took part in the initiative.

The aim of READ DL is a simple one: to create an awareness and love of reading in County Donegal.

Speaking prior to the Glenveagh ceremony, Cathaoirleach Cllr Niamh Kennedy congratulated the READ DL committee for another successful initiative.

She said “Now in its thirteenth year, READ DL has been able to supply over 20,000 books to local schools and communities. This is made possible through the co-operation of both the local Education and Training Board (ETB) and the Atlantic Technological University (ATU).

“Helping children and families to read together over the last decade is a commendable achievement and I hope it will have a positive long lasting effect on all who have participated”

For more information on the work of READ DL and to views past books and authors visit the READ DL social media platforms and www.readdonegal.com

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Job Vacancies: Aurivo Consumer Foods is recruiting new staff to join the team in Killygordon. See below for details of each role.

Aurivo Co-op is a large multi-purpose Co-operative engaged in a wide range of activities including dairy processing, liquid milk distribution, animal feed milling, retail stores, e-commerce, garden centres, livestock marketing and sports nutrition. In Aurivo our values define how we operate, employing over 630 people directly and providing employment for many others in wide range of activities including transport & distribution.  

Forklift Yard Operative

Contract type: Permanent.

Location: Aurivo Consumer Foods, Killygordon, Co. Donegal

Opportunity

Reporting to the Yard Supervisor, Aurivo Consumer Foods, Killygordon the successful candidates will work as part of a team responsibly for the yard operations. This role will also be required to operate counterbalance and reach trucks in yard area. 

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure work is done in safe manner.
• Loading and of loading of trucks
• Assist with warehouse deliveries. 
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Adhere to health and safety procedures.
• Ad hoc tasks and duties as required.
• Shift work maybe required.
• Dayshift- Monday-Friday,7:00am-3:00pm/3:30pm

The ideal candidate will have

• Previous experience in a similar role is advantageous, full training will be provided.
• Ability to work well as part of a team.
• Strong communicate skills.
• Ability to follow instruction and work on their own initiative.
• Flexibility in working duties and areas of work.
• Valid, Full Clean B Driving License
• Previous experience operating a forklift.
• Valid Forklift License

Application Process 

• The company reserves the right to select a shortlist from the applications received.
• Please forward an updated CV to apply for this role to careers@aurivo.ie.

Yard Cover /Milk Intake Operative

Fixed Term Position

Aurivo Consumer Foods, Killygordon, Co. Donegal

Opportunity

Reporting to the Yard Supervisor, Aurivo Consumer Foods, Killygordon the successful candidates will be trained and responsible for the intake of liquid milk delivered by tanker from Aurivo’s milk suppliers. After training is completed, they will also be trained in various other yard roles as such as fork truck and store work.

Key Responsibilities

• Document milk tanker details when receiving milk intake at weighbridge.
• Off load and pump milk to correct silo.
• Ensure production requests are completely correctly and in a timely manner.
• Washing tankers to ensure hygiene standards maintained.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Adhere to health and safety procedures.
• Ad hoc tasks and duties as required.
• Shift work maybe required.
• Operation of Forklift.

The ideal candidate will have

• Ability to work well as part of a team
• Strong communicate skills
• Ability to work on their own initiative
• Flexibility in working duties and areas of work
• Good written and computer skills
• Valid, Full Clean B Driving License

Application Process

The company reserves the right to select a shortlist from the applications received.

Please forward an updated CV to apply for this role to careers@aurivo.ie.

The post Jobs: Aurivo Co-op hiring Yard Operatives in Killygordon appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A young Letterkenny woman who stole a suitcase and a tray of drinks from two different local shops has been fined €200.

Winnie McDonagh, 24, appeared at Letterkenny District Court where she pleaded guilty to both offences.

The two thefts took place in both Menary’s and Dealz, both located at Letterkenny Park on the Paddy Harte Road.

McDonagh, of the Big Aisle, Letterkenny, firstly pleaded guilty to stealing a suitcase worth €80 from Menary’s on May 22nd, 2023.

She also pleaded guilty to stealing 20 bottles of water valued at €40 from Dealz on May 18th, 2023.

Garda Sergeant Jim Collins told the court that the suitcase had not been returned to the shop.

The court also heard that the accused woman had received the Probation Act for a previous theft offence.

The woman’ solicitor, Mr Frank Dorrian, said this was an ‘opportunistic’ theft and that Ms McDonagh was apologetic to the court.

He added that she came from an emotional background.

Judge Eiteain Cunningham fined McDonagh €200 for the theft of the suitcase and took the other matter into consideration.

The post Letterkenny woman who stole suitcase and drinks is fined appeared first on Donegal Daily.

New traffic lights have been proposed for the Oatfield Junction in Letterkenny as part of the town’s active travel works.

The signalised junction would remove the current mini roundabout to allow for safer cyclist and pedestrian crossings.

The proposal is part of the R940 Ballyraine Road project which will narrow the road and add new cycle lanes along a large portion of the route.

A dedicated pedestrian/cycle link is proposed from the Oatfield Junction to the Letterkenny Shopping Centre alongside the integration of cycle facilities within the Station Car Park.

Preliminary design from the Letterkenny Active Travel Project –R940 Ballyraine Road

The plans are currently out for public consultation and public feedback is invited before the deadline of 4.00pm on Wednesday, 26^th March 2025.

Details of the scheme were shared in documents from Tuesday’s meeting of the Letterkenny-Milford MD, as Councillor Jimmy Kavanagh asked for a yellow box at the Oatfield roundabout at old Aldi.

Cllr Kavanagh pointed out that the roundabout gets badly blocked during busy times. He also asked the council to address pedestrian safety for those crossing on the Oatfield side at the bottom of DeValera road, adding that it is “extremely dangerous”.

In response, David McIIwaine, Senior Executive Engineer of the Letterkenny-Milford Roads Section said that the Junction is located within the Part 8 proposal for the Ballyraine Raine Road NTA Active Travel Scheme.

In the interim, Mr McIlwaine said that an assessment can be carried out to assess if it is safe and appropriate to put a yellow box at this location.

The Ballyraine Raine Road NTA Active Travel Scheme public consultation and drawings are available to view at: https://consult.donegal.ie/en/consultation/letterkenny-active-travel-projects-%E2%80%93r940-ballyraine-road

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An impressive coastal home in Donegal will be one of the three properties on this week’s edition of Home of the Year on RTE One.

The hugely-popular property show is heading to the Donegal coast to meet a couple who built a luxury home with a split-level layout to maximise their amazing sea views.

Local couple Michaela and Stephen will be opening their doors to judges Hugh Wallace, Amanda Bone and new judge Siobhan Lam as they tour the rooms and critique every detail.

‘This classically designed home represents the pinnacle of coastal living’ – Des Ewing Architects

The stunning new build, designed by architect Des Ewing, took three years to complete.

Michaela and Stephen furnished their interiors with a classic style with modern touches which are perfect for their young family of three children. They love their coastal views and bright large open spaces for watching the sunset and entertaining.

This home will feature on Home of the Year on Tuesday 18th March at 8.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, alongside properties in Dublin and Galway.

The post Stunning ‘upside-down’ Donegal coastal haven to feature on RTE’s Home of The Year appeared first on Donegal Daily.

A young Letterkenny student is full of the ‘write’ stuff this weekend.

Errigal College second year Robyn McLaughlin has landed first prize in this year’s Read DL Post-Primary Creative Writing Competition.

Robyn’s short story ‘Overthinker’ was described as, “an innovative, original and sophisticated narrative, displaying real heart and soul.”

This year’s Read DL initiative featured Stewart Foster’s critically acclaimed ‘All The Things That Could Go Wrong’. And so it was with huge excitement that the pupils at Errigal College, who have been studying the novel, welcomed the award-winning Foster to their school. It was an even bigger thrill that he was on hand to present Robyn with her prize.

Danny McFadden, principal of Errigal College, commented, “It was a truly special occasion, and it was inspiring to have acclaimed author Stewart Foster there to celebrate Robyn’s success.”

Errigal is extremely proud of its founding role in the success of Read DL, having supported the initiative every year since its inception.

Thursday’s events – which saw Stewart attend the closing ceremony at Glenveagh Castle before being driven to Errigal – was a rousing success. As the presence and participation of Errigal’s pupils, parents and teachers alike goes to show, the project really is able to reach the whole of the community.

The post Letterkenny student full of the ‘write’ stuff after winning Read DL competition appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Photo: Official Donegal GAA

The Donegal County GAA Health & Wellbeing Committee, in association with ATU, Jigsaw, HSE, and the Northwest Alcohol & Drug Task Force, has officially launched their Youth Conference.

The event, which will be held on Saturday, March 22, in ATU Letterkenny, aims to give young people in Donegal important information and resources, based on feedback from club representatives through a recently completed survey.

Speaking at the launch, Health & Wellbeing Committee chairperson Cora Harvey thanked all sponsors and partners, without whom the event could not proceed, and she urged clubs to register their attendees.

“The young people of our clubs will get the tools to help them deal with issues that arise in everyday life,” she said. “They will leave the conference knowing who they need to go to when they need help and support. We want them to know that the GAA is a safe place to go, We are not just about games, We are a community”.

Each club has been invited to send four young people, ages 15-18, along with a club volunteer to attend the conference.

The conference will take place from 9am to 2pm and promises to be a day filled with insightful discussions, workshops, goodie bags and opportunities to engage with members from other clubs.

A highlight of the event will be the presence of Rory O’Connor from Rory Stories – influencer, comedian, and mental health advocate, who will be in attendance for the morning session. He will help launch a new initiative focused on gambling awareness in the afternoon after a master workshop delivered by Mr. Declan Cregan from the charity Gambling with Lives, furthering the conversation around mental health and the challenges facing young people today.

This conference represents a significant opportunity for young people to come together, learn, and discuss important issues affecting their lives, as well as to be inspired by some of the leading voices in the mental health and wellbeing space.

Officially launching the event, Donegal GAA Chairperson Mary Coughlan expressed her gratitude to all who have made this possible

“This is a holistic approach, all our young people have challenges, and it is important that they realise that the GAA is there for them,” she said. “So many professional people are giving their time voluntarily to help and steward them. And it is also beneficial to the club volunteers attending, many of whom are parents. There are supports in place, and we want to get that message out there. It is our hope that this information is transposed into our clubs and then they too can organise events like this within their own settings”.

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Donegal’s primary road routes are to be gritted tonight (Fri) with temperatures expected to plunge below freezing.

Donegal County Council will send out its team of gritters from 7pm.

The following routes will be gritted:

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
12: Binswilly
13: Stranorlar North
14: Stranorlar East
15: Stranorlar West
16: Donegal West
17: Donegal North
18: Donegal South
19: Donegal National Secondary
LT: Letterkenny Town
BT: Buncrana Town Council

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A Dunfanaghy school has been given the green light for an extension.

Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher has welcomed the Decision by the Minister of Education to approve an extension consisting of a new class room to provide a base for children with autism needs for Murroe NS.

The project will now move forward under the devolved system, with the Board of Management appointing an architect to oversee planning and tendering.

Deputy Gallagher praised the principal, staff, and Board of Management for their dedication in securing this vital development.

“This extension will be a huge benefit to the school community for years to come,” he said.

The news has also been welcomed by local county councillor Michael McClafferty.

The post Dunfanaghy school given green light for extension appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Tuesday was a day of major achievements at Leckview Park as Donegal Horizons CLG held a major Football Blitz for adults with intellectual disabilities.

The event, organised in partnership with FAI Ireland and Donegal Sports Partnership, drew in 21 teams and 174 participants, making it the largest event of its kind in Ireland this year.

Loreto Letterkenny Transition Year Future Leaders Class, guided by their teacher, Emer Frie, played a crucial role in the running of the event by refereeing, coaching, and managing team registrations.

The initiative, a collaboration between Donegal Horizons’ senior key worker Seamie Friel and Paul Smith of the FAI, launched last year and has quickly flourished, with Tuesday’s event being the third successful staging.

Check out photos from the day here:

Seamie Friel (Donegal Horizons) and Paul Smith (FAI)

The post Picture Special: Donegal Horizons football blitz sees record participation appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Advertisement

Curtis Opticians, a trusted family-run business established in 1928, is delighted to announce the acquisition of Anne McLaughlin Opticians in Letterkenny. With nearly a century of expertise in eye care, Curtis Opticians remains in the hands of Paul and Ian Curtis, who are proud to continue their family legacy.

As they approach their 100th anniversary in 2028, Curtis Opticians has built a reputation for excellence, offering one of the largest selections of eyewear under one roof in Northern Ireland. Their extensive range of frames, housed in their unique Derry store, includes both classic and contemporary styles from leading brands. Now, they are excited to bring a carefully curated selection of these brands to Letterkenny, alongside cutting-edge lens technologies.

Curtis Opticians @ Anne McLaughlin, Port Road Letterkenny

To ensure the highest standard of eye care, the test rooms in the Letterkenny store have been upgraded with the latest advancements in optical technology. This investment reflects Curtis Opticians’ commitment to providing customers with the most precise eye examinations and tailored vision solutions.

Although Anne McLaughlin has now retired, the business retains the friendly and experienced team that customers know and trust. Carol, a long-standing member of Anne’s team, continues to provide her exceptional service. We are also joined by new team members, Emma, who brings many years of experience in the optical industry, manager/dispensing optician Barry Doherty and optometrist Alan Moore, both of whom bring a wealth of expertise and look forward to meeting customers old and new with their own brand of professionalism and care.

Paul Curtis, Optometrist and Owner/Partner at Curtis Opticians

Designer frames at Curtis Opticians @ Anne McLaughlin, Port Road Letterkenny

Paul and Ian have been overwhelmed by the warm welcome from the community. They also deeply appreciate the exceptional business built by Anne and her husband, Pauric, whose dedication to eye care has set a strong foundation for the future.

Curtis Opticians looks forward to welcoming both new and returning customers, continuing to deliver the expert service and personal touch that have been the hallmark of their business for nearly a century.

To celebrate 1 year in business in Letterkenny, Curtis Opticians have introduced some special offers including FREE PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES with purchase and discounts on Second pairs (conditions apply).

For more information or to book an appointment, visit the store today or call 0749126526.

Customers receive free prescription sunglass offer with frame purchases (ask in-store for details).

Curtis Opticians @ Anne McLaughlin, Port Road Letterkenny

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Care home residents in Letterkenny have been taking virtual adventures through a new Virtual Reality (VR) technology project.

Using VR headsets, elderly people have been walking along Donegal beaches, revisiting family farms, or exploring local landmarks, all from the comfort of their residences.

The innovative project comes from ATU and residential care group Riada Care Ltd. supported by the Data2Sustain European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH).

The program allows family members, carers, and staff to create personalised 360° videos, which residents can enjoy using Meta Quest 3 VR headsets.

“Over a 12-week pilot, we introduced 360° immersive videos to residents at our Hillcrest and Archview care homes in Letterkenny, designed to evoke nostalgia and bring joy to the residents,” said Luke Gavigan, Director of Riada Care Ltd. “This initiative combines two key elements: creating immersive content that brings cherished outdoor experiences into the facility and empowering staff and family members with the tools and training to create personalised VR content for their loved ones.”

Project Lead Dr. William Farrelly of WiSAR Lab, ATU Donegal, part of the Data2Sustain network, explained the transformative potential of this collaboration: “This project demonstrates how technology can foster connection and joy among residents who may otherwise feel isolated. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from the initial trials highlights the transformative potential of VR in elder care.”

Residents participating in the pilot reported significant emotional uplift, enhanced engagement, and reduced feelings of isolation. To ensure the program’s sustainability, the team has developed a comprehensive training program with instructional videos helping guide carers and family members in creating and editing 360° video content.

Care home staff have also been equipped with Meta Quest 3 VR headsets, Insta360 cameras, and editing software, enabling them to continually expand the VR content library.

Dr. Stephen Seawright, Technology Gateway Manager at ATU Donegal, emphasised the importance of collaboration in the project’s success: “The project exemplifies a successful collaboration between academia, healthcare providers, and funding bodies like Data2Sustain EDIH. It underscores the potential of emerging technologies to address complex challenges in healthcare and improve quality of life for many.”

Looking ahead, the team plans to expand the technology to additional Riada Care facilities across Ireland, conduct further research into its long-term benefits, and explore new applications of VR, including guided relaxation and physical therapy.

“Immersive technologies have the potential to transform physical and psychological outcomes in social care settings,” said Dr. Farrelly. “By integrating this technology into everyday care, we’re enriching residents’ lives while also empowering carers to offer innovative, personalised support.”

The post Letterkenny nursing home residents taking virtual beach strolls thanks to VR appeared first on Donegal Daily.

Finn Harps’ quest for a first win of the campaign goes on after a narrow home defeat at the hands of Cobh Ramblers, who won courtesy of a late disputed penalty that was dispatched by Cian Murphy.

Finn Harps 1 – 2 Cobh Ramblers

Patrick Ferry fired the home side into the lead with an early goal, but that was cancelled out as Barry Coffey capitalised on a loose ball in the area on the half hour.

By Stuart Connolly at Finn Park with pics by Joe Boland

Murphy converted the controversial penalty in the final ten minutes as Harps still sit with one point from their first five outings.

It was just a single change to the side that picked up the first point of the season against UCD, as Gavin McAteer stepped into the side in place of Anto Dodd.

Their counterparts remained unchanged after a comprehensive victory over Longford Town.

Finn Harps took an early lead via the right boot of Patrick Ferry as the forward latched onto a low cross into the box from Gavin Hodgins.

In the moments after that early strike, Barry Coffey had a close range effort blocked, while Dale Holland sliced one off target, but clear opportunities were absent at both ends.

That remained the case until just prior to the half hour when the visitors drew level. The quintessential scrappy goal, a corner was floated in from the left by Shane Griffin, and some pinball commenced in the six yard box before Barry Coffey was able to prod home.

After that equaliser, Cobh Ramblers had a slight edge, but other than the tireless efforts of Cian Murphy, who had a half chance with five minutes left, the remainder of the half went by without much action.

Cobh Ramblers kept that slight edge in terms of possession at the start of the second half, but it was Harps who had the first crack at goal as Conor Tourish attempted a spectacular overhead kick that floated just wide of the target.

Prior to that audacious effort, Gavin Hodgins connected with a McNamee set piece, but he didn’t get the purchase he needed to take it past Timothy Martin.

As the game began to open up in the final 20 minutes, Harps put Cobh under pressure and enjoyed a decent spell, but with a little under ten minutes left, Referee Marc Lynch controversially pointed to the spot as Cian Murphy went to ground after a surging run into the box. As the look of astonishment faded, but only slightly, Murphy stepped up and slotted the spot kick into the bottom right corner.

Harps went close to a leveller on more than one occasion as Gradi Lomboto dragged an effort wide, while Max Johnston forced a save out of Martin as the game approached stoppage time.

Finn Harps: David Aziaya; Mikey Place, Conor Tourish, Max Hutchison, Kevin Jordan; Joel Thompson, Tony McNamee, Gavin Hodgins, Gavin McAteer(Anto Dodd 68; Patrick Ferry(Max Johnston 82), Dara McGuinness(Gradi Lomboto 68).

Cobh Ramblers: Timothy Martin; John O’Donovan(Tiernan O’Brien 82), Jonas Häkkinen, Shane A. Griffin(Brendan Frahill 88), Cian Coleman; Niall O’Keeffe(Cian Bargary 63), Barry Coffey, Samuel Bellis(David Bosnjak 63), Dale Holland, Shane Griffin(Jason Abbott 88); Cian Murphy.

Referee: Marc Lynch.

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