IT might not be a White Christmas but the annual Letterkenny Athletic Club Turkey Trot 5k was run on a cold and frosty winter's morning today, more appropriate than the rain at this time of the year.

Joe Boland from NorthWestNewsPix donned his thermals to catch the mood.

Former Tanaiste Mary Coughlan is in mourning following the death of her mother.

Former Tanaiste and Donegal TD Mary Coughlan is in mourning after the death of her mother.

Marian Coughlan, the widow of former TD Cathal, died on Friday night.

Mrs Coughlan (nee Breslin) passed away at the hospice in Sligo.

She was a well-known businesswoman in her earlier years and helped her family run the Abbey Hotel in Donegal Town.

Her daughter Mary is one of Donegal's best-known politicians in recent years having served as a Fianna Fail TD until 2011.

She also served as Tanaiste between 2008 and 2011 while Brian Cowen was Taoiseach.

Ms Coughlan's husband David, a former Garda, passed away in 2012.

Ms Marian Coughlan's burial will take place in her home village of Frosses on Tuesday following funeral mass at St Mary's Church.

Pic NorthWestnewsPix

NIALL Barry and Fionnula Diver were the stars of the show for a cold Turkey Trot 5k run by Letterkenny AC today.

Niall came in first, with Fionnula not far behind in second.

Here are all the results:

Letterkenny Rovers left a result behind them in Dublin today against Dunboyne in the FAI Intermediate Cup in Blanchardstown.

Although Eamon McConigley's side dominated the game for long periods, they could not get that all-important goal.

McConigley said the Dunboyne goalkeeper was in superb form to stop his side taking advantage on several occasions.

Rovers will now have home advantage when the Meath side come to the North-West on January 10th for the replay.

REPORTS

Ulster Junior Cup

Kildrum Tigers 5 Cavan Rovers 1

Kildrum opened the scoring after 10 minutes when Damian Crossan finished off a great piece of play from the Tigers. Cavan scored a few minutes later thanks to a mix-up in the Kildrum defence. Kildrum dominated the remainder of the game with Reece Laird banging in 4 goals. Best for Kildrum were Packi Coll an Reece Laird

Brian Mc Cormick Sports Premier Division

Glenea United 1 Castlefin Celtic 3

This game was abandoned with the visitors leading by three goals to one.

Kilmacrennan Celtic 1 Gweedore Celtic 0

Kilmacrennan Celtic secured their first league win on Sunday when they defeated Gweedore Celtic in a game that was switched to Gweedore. There was some good football being played with Kilmacrennan the stronger side in the first half. They had numerous chances but weren’t rewarded until the 42nd minute where Christy Connaghan converted with the help of Gavin Gorman and Michael McLaughlin. Gweedore had a few good chances also but Kilmacrennan’s Gavin Gorman and Ryan Shields held strong at the back to deny them their equaliser. Gweedore came out fighting and dominated for the first 20 minutes of the second half, creating some good chances, but Kilmacrennan were hungry for a win. Kilmacrennan were awarded a penalty on the 76th minute. It was taken by Christy Connaghan but Gweedore’s keeper pulled off a great save to deny them the chance to double their lead. The last 15 minutes were intense, it was looking like Gweedore were going to get their equaliser, but a few vital saves from Jason Hegarty ensured Kilmacrennan came away with all three points. Best for Kilmac were Caolan Kelly, Gavin Gorman and Ryan Shields. Best for Gweedore : A team effort. Referee: Paddy Duffy

Rathmullan Celtic 3 St. Catherines 3

Dara Patton’s in-form side welcomed Premier League Champions St. Catherine’s to a blustery Flagpole for what was an entertaining clash with both sides taking a share of the spoils in a 3-3 draw. The Hoops got off to the perfect start with winger Ryan Connolly scoring with a glancing header from a Chris Doran cross after 10 minutes, but the reigning champions dug deep and were level after the quarter hour mark with their sharp shooter Rose volleying in from 20 yards out past Hoops’ keeper Mark Gallagher. As the game approached half time the Saints hit a sucker punch to the Seasiders when their left midfielder Daniel Breslin volleyed into the roof of the net from outside the area, following a corner, to give the visitors that all important lead going into the interval. The second half saw the tempo lifted by Patton’s Hoops who dominated the possession and attacks with Ryan Gildea going close, after a solo run, and shooting just wide on 50 minutes. A defensive mix-up gifted St. Catherine’s an opportunity allowing Rose straight through one-on-one with Hoops keeper Gallagher on the hour mark. Rose’s strike was blocked by Gallagher with the breaking ball falling to Barry Cannon who had an open net to stroke the ball into and give the visitors a two goal advantage. Patton rang the changes with Eamonn Sheridan making an immediate impact. He led the line well and linked the play as Rathmullan fought to get something from the game. A brace from Shea Coyle in the closing minutes did just that. Best for Rathmullan were Niall Caruthers, Eamon Sheridan and Shea Coyle. Best for St. Catherines was Rose. Referee: Mick Lagan.

Drumoghill F.C. 1 Milford United 3

Milford United demonstrated their own title credentials in this top of the table cash by producing an impressive performance at The Moss. Gary Merritt was their two goal hero on the day putting his side one up early in the contest before scoring again in the dying minutes to clinch the points after Paddy Collins had pulled one back for the home side. This was a game that was played at an electric pace throughout, both teams enjoying periods of dominance, but the visitors’ ruthless streak inside the box that ultimately led to them grabbing the points. They started brightly and were a goal up inside 3 minutes. Gary Merritt gained possession from a short corner, cut on to his right foot and found the top corner from the edge of the box. Milford dominated the opening period and should really have doubled their lead on 15 minutes when Merritt again that raced through onto Damian Casey’s through ball, but his lob over the advancing Toner was cleared to safety after Christopher O’Donnell somehow beat the ball to the goal line. As half time approached Drumoghill started to gain the upper hand and enjoyed the lion’s share of possession during the periods before and after half time. It was during this period that Richie Moore twice hit woodwork and it started to look like it wouldn’t be Drumoghill’s day. As Drumoghill dominated they became vulnerable to the counter attack and it was from such a venture forwards that Milford doubled their lead. Paul Nash sent PJ Hagan clear on the right wing and the full back’s superb cross was guided home at the back post by Joey Cullen on 68 minutes. Drumoghill though responded immediately. Chris Malseed and Philip Whyte combined in midfield and it was Malseed’s pass the beat the offside trap to send Liam O’Donnell clear and his cross was hammered beyond Mc Gettigan at the near post by Paddy Collins to set up a frantic finish. Drumoghill threw everything they could at Milford during the final 20 minutes but Johnny Logue was equal to anything that Drumoghill could throw at them before Merritt raced away to make it 3-1 on 89 minutes and clinch victory for the visitors. Referee: Ed Moore

Temple Domestic Appliances Division One
Lifford Celtic 0 Donegal Town 3
Played in wintery conditions Lifford welcomed Donegal Town to Greenbrae in search of a much needed three points, but it wasn’t to be. During the first half Donegal created the better goal scoring opportunities as Lifford dominated possession. Donegal got their opener following a goal mouth scramble on 20 minutes. The second half was much the same as the first with Lifford keeping the ball for long spells but rarely threatening, Donegal capitalised on this and doubled their advantage on the hour mark. Donegal put a gloss on their performance and the result when they converted a late penalty.

Lagan Harps P Kerrykeel ’71 F.C. P
(Match Postponed due to unplayable pitches)

Convoy Arsenal 4 Bonagee United 1
Convoy made in four wins in a row with a comfortable home win against Bonagee. On a cold frosty day it was the away side who made the better start to the game and were well on top for the first ten minutes but never created any dangerous chances. Convoy slowly came into the game and got on top of things in midfield and started to create chances through Robb, Brolly and Harvey. The pressure paid off when the Bonagee keeper couldn't hold on to a ball put into box by Elliott and Brolly was first to react to it and was brought down by the keeper. Up stepped Robb to put the home side one up from the spot.
The opening ten minutes of the second half saw both teams score. Convoy doubled their lead to 2-0 when Harvey slotted the ball under the Bonagee keeper. Bonagee responded by making a few changes and sending there danger man Mc Monagle up front. Immediately he pressed hard and won a corner. From the resulting corner Temple managed to poke the ball into the roof of the net amongst all the bodies in the box. With Bonagee confidence lifted they tried hard to break down the Convoy defence but with no luck. Convoy almost got their third from a speculative volley from Guthrie from twenty yards out only for the Keeper to tip it over the bar for a corner. From the resulting corner Convoy got a deserved third through Robb who was on hand to poke the ball into the net in the crowded box. Convoy created chances still through Bogle, Patterson and Guthrie. The result was finally put to bed in the eighty fifth minute when Gary Brolly beat the keeper from the edge of the box. One has to give credit to both teams, both teams played well in such poor conditions for a football match.
Raphoe Town 7 Cranford United 0
Raphoe welcomed Cranford to a bitterly cold Deele College Grounds on what was the last game for the home side before the Christmas break. Raphoe started this game well and were a goal up inside the first ten minutes when David Craig scored with a great header from a Christy Bogle corner. The pressure was kept on Cranford and Raphoe hit a second with a superb finish from Seamus Bogle. Cranford had a few half chances after this and forced Roy Duffy into a couple of fine saves in the Raphoe goal. Then on the half hour Craig got his second after a great move involving Frankie Mc Brearty and Jamie Gallagher. the third came just before half time when Oliver Quinn finished with ease. The second half was more of the same as the home side kept up the pressure and David Craig completed the hat-trick his performance deserved with a fine finish after good work by Jamie Gallagher. Then goal machine Seamus Bogle got his second after very unselfish play by the excellent Frank Mc Brearty. Young sub Keelan Kelly finished the scoring when he got on the end of a Stephen Laird corner. A team effort from and under strength Cranford and a fine team performance from the home side Referee: James Malseed.

CT Ball Division Two
Curragh Athletic 2 Ballybofey United 0
A goal in each half secured the three points from this match for Curragh Athletic. Ballybofey will have had little else on their mind during their short journey home other than how they were returning to the Twin Towns with nothing to show for their endeavours. Countless missed chances was their main source of despair but some great goalkeeping from Jason Woods also added to their woes. Curragh will be glad of the three points as the League enters the Christmas break.

Deele Harps P Dunkineely Celtic P
(Match Postponed due to unpayable pitches)

RESULTS

Sunday

Ulster Junior Cup

Kildrum Tigers 5 v 1 Cavan Rovers

Brian Mc Cormick Sports Premier Division

Glenea United 1 v 3 Castlefin Celtic
Kilmacrennan Celtic 1 v 0 Gweedore Celtic
Rathmullan Celtic 3 v 3 St. Catherines
Drumoghill F.C. 1 v 3 Milford United
Temple Domestic Appliances Division One
Lifford Celtic 0 v 3 Donegal Town
Lagan Harps P v P Kerrykeel ’71 F.C.
Convoy Arsenal 4 v 1 Bonagee United
Raphoe Town 7 v 0 Cranford United
CT Ball Division Two
Curragh Athletic 2 v 0 Ballybofey United
Deele Harps P v P Dunkineely Celtic

Christmas Update

The Executive Committee of the Donegal Junior League have decided to cancel all matches over the Christmas and New Year period. The Committee took the decision so that families could enjoy the festivities together without having to wonder about fixtures been on or off. There are many thousands of people connected with the League in one way or another and it is the wish of the League that all can enjoy this special time. So to the Players, Managers, Coaches, Physios, Club Committee Members, our Referees and members of the local Media and all their families the Donegal Junior League wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. We look forward to seeing you all around the grounds in 2016.

The newly elected North West 10k committee following their AGM on Thursday evening in the Mount Errigal Hotel. Front from left – Bridgeen Doherty, James Boyle (Chairperson), Brendan McDaid (Assistant Treasurer & Race Director), Rosemary Foy (Joint Secretary). Back from left – Anne Condon (Treasurer), Grace Boyle, Gerry Davenport, Neil Martin (Vice-Chairperson), Bernie Brennan (Joint Secretary), Patsy Doherty and Paddy Bond. Not included committee members Norman Spratt, Gerard McGinley, Nancy McNamee and Neilly McDaid.

Following their latest AGM, the incoming North West 10k committee will get down to work after Christmas for the 20th anniversary of the charity race and walk.

Sunday the 1st of May will be a special occasion for the organization, which staged its first North West 10k event in 1997. Over the past 19 years a total of 709,000 euros has been raised for a broad spectrum of worthy causes. The 2014 event yielded €27,757 with the four charities getting €6,939 each.

Early in New Year interested charities will be invited to make applications to be the beneficiaries of the 20th North West 10k.

Following confirmation of the successful charity organizations there will be a number of fundraising initiatives undertaken ahead of the race and walk to maximize the financial returns for the groups.

There were no personnel changes at the AGM in the Mount Errigal Hotel with James Boyle re-elected as Chairperson; Neil Martin (Vice-Chairperson); Anne Condon (Treasurer), Brendan McDaid (Assistant Treasurer), Declan Kerr (PRO) and Joint Secretaries (Bernie Brennan & Rosemary Foy).

The Honorary President is Charlie Kelly and following committee members were also re-elected – Gerry Davenport, Norman Spratt, Paddy Bond, Grace Boyle, Gerard McGinley, Neilly McDaid, Bridgeen Doherty, Nancy McNamee and Patsy Doherty. Meanwhile Brendan McDaid remains on as Race Director while Charlie Kerr will assist with the safety and traffic management plans.

Chairperson James Boyle acknowledged the crucial role played by the sponsors DonegalDaily.com and Brian McCormick Sports in helping to make the North West 10k such a successful charity event in recent years.

The support of the Gardai under Sergeant Eunan Walsh, the Civil Defence, the volunteer marshals, those who manned water stations and anyone involved in any way with last year’s race and walk were thanked for their invaluable contribution to ensuring that it passed off safely.

LETTERMACAWARD retired postman Brian Cannon and his wife Marie are hoping a taxi driver will return their new son-in-law's wedding ring - which Marie may have lost in a taxi in Dublin.

The couple travelled to the capital at the weekend having escaped from their house in Lettermacaward after it was surrounded by flood water last week.

Marie was travelling to the church for the big wedding of daughter Mary and partner Sean Earley on Saturday and was carrying the wedding bands on a cushion.

Sean Dunnion

SEAN DUNNION has been returned to the top job as Chairman of Donegal GAA County Board.

The popular chair easily defeated Denis Ellis by 128 votes to 27 at the annual convention at the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny.

St Eunan's Frankie Doherty was elected vice-chairman.

The full list of appointments is as follows:

Chairperson: Sean Dunnion
Vice Chairperson: Frankie Doherty
Secretary: Aideen Gillen
Assistant Secretary: Declan Martin
Treasurer: Cieran Kelly
Assistant Treasurer: Paddy Tinney
PRO: Ed Byrne
Development Officer: Terence McShea
Oifigeach Gaelige agus Cultúir: Fergus McGee
Coaching Officer: Anthony Harkin
Central Council Delegate: Seamus O Domhnaill
Ulster Council Delegates: Pat Connaghan and PJ McGowan
Children’s Officer: Mick McGrath
Delegates to Ulster Convention will be: Seamus O Domhnaill, Mick McGrath and Edward Molloy.

The Ulster team celebrate after winning the All Ireland final, during the M. Donnelly GAA Wheelchair Hurling Interprovincial All-Star Awards & All-Ireland Finals. I.T. Blanchardstown, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15. Picture credit: Oliver McVeigh / SPORTSFILE

Former Donegal Goalkeeper and 1992 All-Ireland Winner Paul Callaghan has won the GAA Disability Coach of the Year Award.

The Burt man received the award at the All-Star awards ceremony in Dublin last Saturday.

Paul, who is employed as a Regional Development Officer with Ulster GAA co-ordinates, the Disability programmes in the Province on their behalf.

Paul is the manager of the Ulster Wheelchair Hurling Team who won the All-ireland League & Championship Double by winning the latter on Saturday last beating a strong Munster Team in the Final.

The Ulster Wheelchair Hurlers are based in 4 hubs around the Province, Enniskillen, Belfast, Lurgan & Derry catering for all the 9 counties and then combine to form the Ulster Team.

GREAT DUCK RACE: That time of year again, our annual Duck Race takes place on St Stephen's Day at Binnion River at 1pm. Ducks are now on sale at €5. Ducks can be purchased from Alan Friel on 0879029672, Michael Doherty (S) on 0879975610 and Adrian Doherty on 0879810304. Michael, Alan and Adrian on behalf of the club wish to Thank all who purchased ducks on Saturday, to Joe Joyce and all the staff at Centra and Clonmany PO for letting us sell the ducks. Also, thanks to the lads who helped out selling the ducks.

MATCH"N" WIN: December 10th: No jackpot winner----numbers drawn: 8, 10, 18, & 23. €15 winners:
Stephen Kerr, Crossconnell.
Brian Porter, Drumfries.
Kevin Noone, Tornabratley.
Ryan Ivers, Dunaff.
Kian O'Brien, Cloontagh.
Jackpot next week €2,340. Thanks to all our Lotto sellers and to all who support us in this weekly draw.

AGM: Thanks to all who attended our recent AGM. A comprehensive review of year was given by all main officers. Election of club officers for 2016 as follows:
Club President : Fr Charlie Logue.
Vice Presidents: John Joe Mc Daid, Charlie Farren & John Joe Cleary.
Chairman: Danny Kelly.
Vice Chair: Neil G Mc Laughlin.
Secretary: TBC
Vice Secretary: TBC
Treasurer : John Friel
Vice Treasurer: TBC
PRO: Rose Kelly.
Children's Officer: Susan Mc Carron.
Cultural Officer: Shaun Mc Daid.
Events Officer: Danny Friel.
Coaching Officer: Michael Doherty (S)
Other sub committees and team managers will be confirmed at a later meeting.
The club wish to thank outgoing club secretary David Hession for all his hard work the last several years. The meeting concluded by wishing all in the club success on and off the field of play in 2016.

UNDER AGE TRAINING: U6, U8 & U10 Training: Training for U6 & U8 (2016 season) every Friday, in Clonmany Community Centre. Astro for U8 and inside for U6 at 5.30 to 6.30pm. €2 per child please contact Nichola Donaghey for more details on 0866030736.
U10 Boys & Girls: Also, training for both every Saturday, at 11 am to 12 noon in the Clonmany Community Centre on astro. €2 per week. Please contact Siobhan Devlin and Danny Kelly for more details. More help is required as our numbers are very big so if anyone can spare a free hour please let any of the coaches know. No U12 & U13 girls training until after Christmas.

BINGO: Bingo every Thursday night in St. Mary's Hall, Clonmany at 9pm. Please bring a family friend along. Side Prizes from now to Christmas. Bingo vouchers now available for those looking for Christmas gift ideas.

This Christmas, there will be lots of programmes of special interest to listeners in Donegal on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, from entertainment, to music and sport.

On Wednesday 23 December, Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí will hold the Rónán Beo @3 annual Christmas party, this year in Dixon’s in Mín Lárach, with lots of music and craic from 3 pm. Later that evening at 7 pm, tune in for superb traditional music from a concert in the Sliabh Sneacht Centre in Clomany held earlier this year to celebrate fiddler Dinny McLouglin’s birthday. Musicians included Altan, Arc of Tides and the Henry Girls.

Sports enthusiasts may be interested in the panel analysis of the 2015 Football Championship on Sunday 27 December at 2 pm. They may also like to tune to a programme on Thursday 31 December at 11 am about Jim McGuinness and his controversial book Til Victory Always.

On Monday 28 December, there’ll be a programme with talented Belfast musician Albert Fry, who also has close ties with Rann na Feirste. A five part mini-series about acclaimed Donegal author Seosamh Mac Grianna will start Monday 28 Dec 5.30 pm, and run every evening that week. The Donegal knitting industry, which once employed 20,000 people in the county, will be the focus of the programme Cniotáil on Tuesday 29 December at 11 am.

Gifted storyteller Donnchadh Chassie Ó Baoill passed away during the year, and a special programme on Wednesday 30 December at 11 am will bring us some treasured memories of a funny and talented man.

In Beo le Bingo on Friday 1 January at 11 am, we’ll hear from Padaí Ó Brolcháin who has spent 40 years organising the bingo nights in an Tearmann and Milford.

Some of the best programmes from the series Mo Ghrá Thú in the summer will be rebroadcast over Christmas, including programmes with dance teacher and enthusiast James Mac Suibhne from Gaoth Dobhair, and Suzanne Ní Ghallchóir, who talks about her passion for culture and heritage.

This is just a selection of what can be heard on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta over Christmas. Full details can be found on www.rte.ie/rnag

CLUB LOTTO
There was no jackpot winner in last weeks lotto the numbers drawn were2 -6-1-3-5-7-4. There where five  €20 winners  who was as follows:

Paul Leech, Moville

Eddie McLaughlin, C/O Neil Toye

Kathleen Harkin, Groove Cottages

Martin & Junior, Point inn

Thomas McIntyre, Limavady

The Club would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their continued support of the Lotto as it gives the club the essential means of continuing to give our local kids and adults the chance to avail of a great and healthy pastime.  If any kids would like to start selling lottos each week feel free to contact their coach for more information.

Next Weeks Jackpot €950

SENIORS
Applications are now being sought for the vacant post of senior manager.

Anyone wishing to apply for the post should contact the club secretary on secretrary.muff.donegal@gaa.ie no later than 6pm on Friday 18th of December

Christmas hamper draw
Tickets available in both post offices.

Donegal year books available from secretary €10. Great pictures and reports of our u14u16 and u11 winners. Definitely a good book to be able to look back at in years to come

CLUB APP
Our new club app is now live on the App Store and google play store In the app you can play the clubs lotto every week through the games section and keep up to date with club events and wats happening within the club. Also there is direct links to Facebook and twitter. You can also share your photos of games you are at via the app. So get downloading and have a look for yourself

CLUB GEAR
There are No more being taken now for club gear before Christmas.

All orders should be available for collection by week beginning the 7th of December.

There is a limited stock of some club gear and Club Donegal gear available in the clubhouse,

Please contact Dermot on 0879978968 for availability.

As always keep up to date with club activities through Facebook,Twitter,Club APP and through are website on www.naomhpadraig.com

Sunday Confined 13th Dec 2015

Glashedy Links

1st Neil Grant (16) 46pts

2nd Paul Houghton (15) 44pts

3rd Eamonn O’Donnell (20) 39pts

The Old Links

1st Stephen Fox (20) 44pts

2nd Kevin McLaughlin(H) (12) 44pts

3rd Johnny McDermott (24) 40pts

CSS: N/Q

Saturday Open 12th Dec 2015

1st Tony Concannon (18) 40pts

2nd Paddy McDermott (12) 38pts

3rd Cormac McGeady (4) 37pts

CSS: N/Q

Forthcoming Events & Fixtures

Friday 18th Dec 2015 Open on Glashedy Links. Visitors €30

Saturday 19th Dec 2015 Open Competition on The Old Links. Visitors €30

Sunday 20th Dec 2015 Members Christmas Party on both courses

Festive Opens at Ballyliffin Golf Club:

Sat 26th Dec Ladies & Gents Open on Glashedy Links

Mon 28th Dec Ladies & Gents Open On The Old Links

Tues 29th Jan Ladies & Gents Open on Glashedy Links

Wed 30th Dec Ladies & Gents Open on The Old Links

Fri 1st Jan Ladies & Gents Open on Glashedy Links

Sat 2nd Jan Ladies & Gents Open on The Old Links

All festive Opens are €25pp for visitors

C.L.G. Naomh Brid, Co. Donegal are inviting applications for the position of senior and reserve team manager for the 2016 season.

The Naomh Brid side will compete in the all County League Division 3, and the County Intermediate Championship.

Applications by email to Secretary.naomhbrid.donegal@gaa.ie

Deadline 20th December.

Seniors

The seniors long season came to an end on Saturday afternoon at Ruislip after losing to Clonmel Commercials in the All-Ireland Quarter Final. Clonmel started brightly and despite dominating possession in the early stages the Gaels stayed in touch with points from Adam Askin, Marty Mc Coy & Adrian Hanlon. After conceding a goal, the Gaels responded well and finished out the first-half strongly kicking three well taken and unanswered points from Askin, Hanlon & Cathal Magee leaving the scoreline at 1-05 to 0-6 at halftime.

A sucker punch goal from Clonmel superbly taken at the start of the second half, quickly followed up by a point saw the Tipperary men open up a six-point cushion. The woes continued further after losing Adam Askin to a second booking, however the Gaels refused to give up and a gritty second half performance from Liam Gavighan was rewarded with two points. A fine 45 from Mark Gottsche against the wind was to be the final score to be clocked up from TCG but these were matched by Clonmel which left the final scoreboard reading 2-12 to 0-09.

Congratulations to all the players, management and backroom team on reaching this stage and another successful season for the club. A well earned break is now on the cards for all involved before the new season begins.

Season's Greetings

Tir Chonaill Gaels would like to take this opportunity wish all members, supporters and friends of the club a very Happy Christmas and wish you a Peaceful New Year.

Lottery

Results to follow next week

Play online at www.tirchonaillgaels.com

Thank you to all who attended our reconvened AGM. The following officers elected: Chairperson - Declan Gallagher, Vice Chairperson - Sean McGinley, Secretary - Fiona McGinley, Asst Secretary - John Carr, Treasurer - Louise Boyle
PRO - James Byrne, Field Chairperson - Seamus Cunningham , Minor Board - Paul McCloskey, Ladies Chairperson - Annemarie Campbell, Registrar - Denise McSweeney, Children’s Officer - Patricia McDevitt, Senior Manager - Martin McHugh, U21 Manager - John McNulty, Coaching Officer - Kevin Lyons, Executive Member - Trevor McBrearty

Ten Week Development Draw

Week Eight Winners: €1,000 Declan Conroy, Rolagh, Kilcar €500 John Curran, Bogagh, Kilcar €300 Bridie Molloy, Stragar, Killybegs €200 John McConnell, Ardara, Nula O’Byrne, Doonin, Kilcar and Eileen and Carmel Kelly, Carrick.
Club App

We are up to 196 members on our FREE mobile app if you would like to sign up just follow these steps to download your free team App for CLG Chill Chartha.

1. On your phone or iPad go to the app store 2. Search for Team App 3. Install Team App to your phone 4. Search for CLG Chill Chartha 5. Log in and register for the CLG Chill Chartha Club app. 6. You will receive an email notification when you are added you to the system.
Lotto

There was no winner of the Club Lotto Jackpot so next week’s Jackpot is €2,400 this week’s numbers were:  1, 18, 19 and 27 winners were: €50 Brid Ní Bhaoill (Biofán, Glencolmcille) €30 Margaret Byrne (Straleel) and €20 Michael McGillacuddy, (Leitir).  Lotto Plus numbers 2, 3, 8 and 23 there was no winner.

Bingo Jackpot now €6,050!

There was no winner of our Club Bingo so next week’s Jackpot is now €6,050 on 45 numbers. This Sunday’s winners were €150 Marie Gillespie, €110 John Cunningham, Brid Byrne, €70 Roise Carr, Anna Byrne, Kathleen Cunningham, Eileen Gillespie and Ann Doherty .

Dunkineely Community Alert

Dunkineely Community Alert held a meeting at the DCL offices on Wednesday evening (09.12.15); the meeting was chaired by former Councillor John Boyle and there were there were 22 people in attendance including Councillor Niamh Kennedy and Garda Niall Burke.

It was resolved to set up a Text Alert System, and that Mrs Vera McCafferty would be the coordinator. Once the necessary ground work has been carried out, notices will appear in the press, and on facebook, etc, to inform you as to how you can get involved in this very worthwhile project, and help to make our community a safer place for all concerned.

It is proposed that the Text Alert system will be set up according to Muintir Na Tíre guidelines; for more information, check out their website.

Carol Service with the Methodists

There will be a Carol Service at 10:30am on Sunday 20^th December in the Methodist Church, Dunkineely; all are welcome. And the previous evening, Saturday 19^th December, there will be Carol Singing around the around the town of Dunkineely.

Carol Service with the Church of Ireland

There will be a Carol Service at St Peter’s Church, Killaghtee at 7pm, Sunday 20^th December, followed by tea. All are welcome.

South Donegal Branch of the Irish Pony Club

The current programme of both riding and stable management at MW Stables, Doorin Line, Mountcharles is continuing on Saturday afternoons.  If you are interested in becoming a member or just taking a look at what the Pony Club does and meet other pony club members, ring Marie Hainsworth 086 2313964.

St Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop Christmas Sale

This year’s sale has started in the SVP Shop on Water Street, Donegal Town. Opening times are Thursday and Friday 10 am - 2pm; Monday 6pm - 8pm; Wednesday 10am - 12 noon. Bargains galore!

St. Vincent de Paul greatly appreciates, and would like to thank, all those who continue to support the work of the Society by donating to, and shopping at, the Thrift Shop. Wishing you all a very Peaceful and Happy Christmas.

Youth Events in Methodist Hall Dunkineely

Anchor Boys Fri nights 6:45 – 8:00pm (4 – 8yr olds)

Boys Brigade Fri nights 8:00 – 9:30pm

Badminton Mondays nights

3rd – 5th Class 6:30 – 7:30

6th Class – teens 7:30 – 8:30

Adults 8:30 – till finish

Naomh Ultan

The Club Dinner Dance takes place on 2^nd January 2016 in the Abbey Hotel. Tickets for the dance will be on sale in the clubhouse on Friday 18^th December at 8:30pm; there will be no tickets available on the night of the dance.

Scór Sinsear will be in Drimarone in the New Year. The club is looking for people to represent the parish in solo singing, recitations, a ballad group, music, set dancing and quiz teams.

There was no winner of the Royal Flush Jackpot.  Numbers drawn were: 5, 10, 12 and 13. Consolation prizes went to: Peter Duffy, Cashelfean; Conal McGinley, Calhame and Tony Diver, Dunkineely. The Jackpot next week will be €960. Thank you for your support.

Club 25 Card Drive continues every Wednesday in Mary Murrins, 9:00pm.

Well done to Daniel Gallagher on making the DCU Fresher’s Football Team… no bother to Daniel!

Bluestack Ramblers

On 27^th December 2015, there will be a walk to Barnesmore Mast. This moderate walks will take 3 hour and will be led by Paddy Meehan. For more information ring 086 6014386. Meeting  at the Tourist Office Donegal Town 10.00 a.m.

On 31^st December 2015, there will be a walk from Drimarone to Glenties. This strenuous walk will take approximately 6 hours and will be led by Michael & Agatha Mc Garrigle. For more information phone 086 8627605. Meeting at O’Neill’s Pub, Drimarone 10.00 a.m.

Dance Classes

Learn to Jive, Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep and Two-hand Dances.

Bayview Hotel, Killybegs on Wednesday evenings at 8:00pm

All are welcome to these evenings of Fun and Exercise. Only €8.

O’Donnell School of Music

Music Lessons will be held at the Dunkineely Community Ltd Office building on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week from 3:30 to 9:00pm. For further information contact 087 9644019.

The Way of the Heart

A group of us are going to study together ‘The Way of the Heart’ during 2016, and we invite you to join us.  Our introduction night is Thurs 3rd Dec at 7.30pm-9,30pm, in Dunkineely, Co. Donegal. Ring Janet on 087 6123214 for more information.  This may also appeal to ‘A Course In Miracles’ students.

DCL Winter Program of Courses

We have several courses running at the moment and we are taking names for others. For enquiries, please call to the DCL office, phone us on 0749737678 (9:30-12:30) or email us on dunkineelycommunity@gmail.com.

Recovery from Emotional Distress

GROW – Gradually, Regaining, Our, Wellbeing! Support and a program for recovery. Weekly Meetings at Niall Mor Centre, Killybegs on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm. Also in the Day Hospital, adjacent to Donegal Hospital on Tuesday evenings at 8:00pm. For further information contact Marian on (086)7856912. All are welcome.

Dunkineely Community Ltd Office Hours

Please note that DCL Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays are dedicated to projects outside the office. If someone is in the office on these days, please come in. feel free to pop into the office for a chat, use the Internet (20c per half hour),  print or photocopy documents (20c per page) or borrow a book (20c per book).

Going on a Sun Holiday?

Print your Boarding Pass with us in the DCL office.

Library

One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is to teach him of her to read; it is something that will help them throughout their lives, and will bring them a lot of pleasure. It is sad to see so many libraries closing, through lack of funding, but we are happy to report that Dunkineely Community Ltd (DCL) has a small library of over 1000 books. We have books ranging from Children's Literature to Teenage Fiction (The Fault in our stars), Biographies to Classics (Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice), from Horror to Comedy, Booker-Prize to Thrillers, Health to Hobbies, etc. etc.  Borrowing costs 20c per book.

Irish Water and Donegal County Council have made significant progress dealing with recent disruption to the operation of Bundoran Water Treatment Plant, following a severe flooding incident last week when the plant was submerged in over half a metre of water as a result of Storm Desmond.

The plant is now back in operation and producing fully treated water for the Bundoranarea, following a significant clean up and emergency repair operation by Irish Water working with Donegal County Council throughout last week and through the weekend.

Last week, drinking water was supplied to the Bundoran area from Ballyshannon Water Supply Scheme and from neighbouring counties of Leitrim and Fermanagh (with the assistance of Northern Ireland Water) to minimise the disruption to customers in the affected area. Tankered water supplies were also provided by Irish Water to customers in Bundoran without a water supply.

"The plant is now back in operation but there are still major works to be carried out to ensure security of water supply and prevent further disruption," said a spokeswoman for Irish Water

Most customers now have a normal water supply but any who are still experiencing outages should check www.water.ie or call 1890 278 278 to report a fault or check for service updates.

The spokeswoman added: "Irish Water apologises to all customers affected by this incident and thanks them for their patience and co-operation while supplies were disrupted. Irish Water and Donegal County Council remain on site to complete remaining repair work as soon as possible.

"Irish Water would like to thank the staff of Donegal County Council, Northern Ireland Water, Leitrim County Council, Sligo County Council, the EPA, HSE and the ESB for their continuing assistance in dealing with this on-going incident."

The President of the LYIT Student's Union has criticised the new proposed loan scheme for students.

Dylan McGowan said it is unreasonable and will deter students from applying to college.

“Irish college fees are already the second highest in Europe. Students are looking abroad to countries like Germany, Denmark and Norway, where education is free.” McGowan said,
“Under this new proposed loan scheme, college graduates could face loan repayments in the region of €25 a week over a 15-year period under major reforms to third-level funding proposed in a Government-commissioned report.”

A draft report recommends the introduction of a new income-contingent loan system for graduates, increased maintenance grants for students from low income families and a greater contribution from both the State and employers.

The findings are contained in a confidential 70-page draft report entitled Funding Irish Higher Education: A Virtuous Circle of Investment, Quality and Verification.

USI said that an already broken loan system will only further fracture the structure of the Irish education system.

"This would represent a real increase of €7,500 in fees for third level. It is unreasonable to think an increase in the current fee levels should be part of addressing third level funding. We need to look at the stakeholders who aren’t making the contribution they should be."

McGowan added "Irish college fees are already the second highest in Europe. In supposed times of recovery, 30,000 people have already emigrated from Ireland this year alone. The federal 3rd level loan system did not work in Australia, the UK or the USA. It would be impractical and illogical to introduce an already broken loan scheme to Ireland.”

LYIT Students Union said this loan system will only push people further away and outlined that other countries in Europe offer better pay and lower registration fees, making the cost of education cheaper abroad.

Brian O'Donnell, Donegal Road Safety Officer with RTÉs Theresa Mannion at the Road Safety Authority Annual ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety Awards’.

The 2015 RSA Leading Light award in the Public Service Category has been awarded to the Donegal Road Safe Show.

The ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards Ceremony in Farmleigh House is one of the most important events of the year, as the Road Safety Authority acknowledges those who have helped achieve safer roads.

MC for the day was RTÉ News Western Reporter Teresa Mannion, fresh from her reporting on Storm Desmond. The RSA recognises the extraordinary efforts that people all over the country have made, and continue to make, to keep Ireland’s roads free of tragedy.

A total of 24 awards were presented by RSA Chairperson, Ms Liz O’Donnell. Hundreds of nominations were submitted to this year’s Awards which included individuals and groups from the business, media, education, emergency service and public sectors.

The Donegal Road Safe Show graphically depicts how a night out can end in death or serious injury when poor driving behavior is adopted. Short road safety videos and TV adverts are interspersed with accounts of crash scenes by a range of speakers including an A & E consultant, a Garda, a paramedic, a fire fighter, a victim of a road traffic collision and the mother of a fatally injured road traffic casualty all of whom give a first hand account of their personal experiences and emotions in the aftermath of a car crash.

The show emphasises that any one of the young people in the audience could themselves become a victim with the theme, ‘Remember, the next time it could be you’.

The show is organised by Donegal County Council and the Donegal Road Safety Working Group Road Safety and the show is a direct approach to improving road safety and reducing the devastating impact on communities and families in the county.

The show is attended by over 2,500 students annually and School Principals continue to tell us that they believe that this is one of the most important initiatives each year for them to educate their students for the life ahead of them.

Brian O’Donnell, Road Safety Officer said, “This project would not be deliverable without the assistance of the emergency services and is an example of excellent interagency cooperation in the delivery of road safety education. Donegal County Council particularly acknowledges the role of An Garda Síochána, HSE Ambulance Service, HSE Emergency Department and the Fire Service in the delivery of the Road Safe Road Show. The Leading Lights Award acknowledges the commitment given by the participants to the show, who every year have heightened awareness to young people around road safety, thus reducing the potential for collisions and prepare our young people for the life ahead. To receive a national award for the show is a wonderful achievement and just knowing that everyone involved with the show have helped students in their educational journey is also a truly great reward. We are also very fortunate to know that all the participants involved have delivered a very genuine road safety message to a very appreciative audience.

James McKenna, Fire Service, Dr. Gerry Lane, HSE Emergency Department, Brian O’Donnell, Road Safety Officer, Ms Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson RSA, Sgt. Mark Traynor, Paddy Doherty, Liam Duffy, HSE Ambulance Service and Richard Alcorn.