Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal Charlie McConalogue is urging the Government to establish new protocols with the insurance industry and introduce legislation to provide flood cover for homes and businesses in Donegal that have been devastated yet again by last week’s flooding.

Deputy McConalogue has said the new UK flood insurance system that has just come into effect provides a model to be used here. It allows owners in flood risk areas to still insure their property and their possessions.

He explained: “In the UK legislation was put in place by the Government in agreement with Insurers to develop a not-for-profit company to allow insurers to pass the flood risk element of an insurance policy into a fund that would then pay out any claim into the future. The way the scheme is designed it enables high flood risk households to access affordably priced flood insurance.  This is badly needed here now, especially in light of the devastating floods in Ballybofey, Stranorlar, Castlefin and Lifford last week.

“The emergency funding being put in place by the Government will help but we need comprehensive, long-term solutions for homes and businesses in towns and villages across the Finn Valley and Pettigo, Glenties and Kilmacrennan.  It’s simply not acceptable to leave them at the mercy of the weather.

“There is an immediate need among these communities that must be addressed and I want to praise the ongoing work of the Civil Defence, volunteers and members of the Defence Forces who worked tirelessly to help people salvage what they could from their homes.

“The Government needs to make establishing new protocols with the insurance industry here a top priority in the new year and draw up new legislation.  I am pressing the case with my colleagues in Fianna Fáil to adopt this type of insurance model in Ireland.

“The more medium term plans must include building the flood defence infrastructure but also putting in place the proper safety nets by way of insurance cover.  The insurance industry needs to step up in this process.  I think new protocols and legislation can be agreed if the Government shows the necessary leadership to bring this about.  Insurance companies already make large profits so a new flood insurance scheme to support those at risk of flooding should be borne by the companies themselves not simply passed on”.

The old Ritz Cinema in Ballybofey.

Plans to demolish the old Ritz Cinema in the Twin Towns of Ballybofey and Stranorlar has sparked a massive debate which has divided the local community.

In this open letter,  young emigrant Aaron Guthrie, who is from the area, speaks about his feelings on the proposal.

"Will I ever feel how it was to walk into the Ritz excited by the flickering light of the old film projectors? Or feel the floorboards, showing their age with a creak? Or wonder at the dramatic photographs hung on the entrance hall? The consensus seems to be that the Ritz’ condition has almost passed being repairable and so the short answer is, probably no. So will we be destined to meekly walk around another glass panelled and concrete clad building with light that doesn’t allow any shadow?

"So I have to ask: Is this the mark of our generation — tearing away what’s left of the town’s character all in the name of “progress”? It’s easy to get sucked into this rampant regeneration — of building, expanding, developing, or whatever buzz-word business slang it’s covered in — but how much of it is enlightening?

It’s buildings like these that stand through time and show the marks of years gone by. It physically reminds us of our past that can be smelled and touched. Especially for young people growing up in the Twin Towns, this building may well be the key to feeling closer to Ballybofey’s past. The unique design, location, and saturation of the name in our minds creates a sense of wonder and delight.

"Many memories have been awakened, photographs and documents have been shared on campaign groups online. Photos of the drama club on the front steps in 1950s, the running list of films like Casablanca, Hitchcock’s Rear Window and John Wayne in The Searchers projected in widescreen Technicolour . For me, it all smells of a romanticism of a different time.

"And aside from the stories, memories and photographs of the people, this building is about the only place left with atmosphere and history that could connect new generations to the achievements of their ancestors. This inspiring feeling of being part of something could even become a reason for young people not to emigrate and to instead stay to give back to their home-place.

"Capitalism and big business are fast becoming unpopular in today’s generations — especially in the wake of RTÉ Investigates’ recent programme on local council governance. Rather, we’re more interested and excited by experiences. Experiences which in turn can be broadcast to our friends on social media. Experiences that we can share in a building in which our ancestors shared theirs.

"I feel it’s important for us to take time from our ever busier lives and campaigns on the internet to confront this. With the development of more housing and commercial buildings around the town, there seems to be a lack of provision for our social needs as a community. Being social online only augments real human interaction, and homes for this interaction are disappearing.

"Does the Twin Towns really need another character-less commercial building — whose future may look similar to the other desolate buildings on the main street? There have been numerous suggestions shared online to use the building as a cafe, art gallery, training centre, restaurant, museum, or an all-encompassing community centre. Or something to help empower young people to leave their mark on this town too.

"I take this as a wake-up call for us to defend a necessary element of any society — a platform for people to share and learn together, and to welcome all and every necessary voice from all ages in the debate.

"Either that or let the character of the Ritz be wiped away as one of the last pieces of our heritage and shorten the historical legacy of Ballybofey’s main street.
Even, as a people — does the footprint of our generation come close to leaving behind landmarks like the people of the 1930s left us — this beautiful art-deco style theatre and cinema for us to come together to share ideas and be transported to different worlds."

Aaron Guthrie grew up in Ballybofey but has since emigrated to London and spend most of his time between there and Belfast. He is a 21 year old who has finished studying at the University of Westminster this year. He is mainly a filmmaker and sometimes works with social groups to help them use media to express themselves.

My feelings in the piece are also shared with people of the campaign. I've spoken to many in the town that feels similar and wish for their voice to be heard too, in opposition to the developers who aren't currently consulting the public on their decisions.

Bests,
Aaron Guthrie

Cllr Frank McBrearty

INDEPENDENT councillor Frank McBrearty has called for Cllr John O'Donnell to be expelled from the Independents Group on Donegal County Council, claiming some other independents thwarted his attempt to have this done.

And he also wants the Kilmacrennan politician chucked off the Joint Policing Committee.

In a statement to Donegal Daily, Cllr McBrearty said: "I am again proposing that the independent grouping suspend Cllr John O'Donnell from the Joint Policing Committee before it meets at 11am in Lifford this Thursday and all other committees with immediate effect until all investigation  are concluded into the allegations contained in the the RTE special investigation programme against him.

"As an independent on the group I was defeated in my proposal to have him expelled from our group and for us to take him off all committees he was given under the all inclusive council, which I negotiated on behalf of the independents.

"If the independents had done what I had proposed this would not be an issue.

"The only committee that Cllr John O'Donnell is entitled to sit on, is his membership of the SPC for roads and Transportation which he is a member of. Any other committee he has at present is through the grouping system on council.

"We have the power to remove him from those committees as suggested by the other parties on council at the special meeting on Friday. They told us it was a matter for the independents and they all abstained from the vote due to this. Cllr Seamus O'Domhnaill raised a point of order on the issue when I made my proposal which was seconded by Cllr Michael Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig.

"We were defeated by 5 other independents from a second proposal. I made my position quite clear concerning the counter proposal made by Cllr Tom Conaghan, seconded by Cllr John Campbell supported by Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Cllr Michael McBride and Cllr Nicholas Crossan. I am now calling on these independent councillors to change their minds and expel Cllr O'Donnell from our group. So Far only Cllr Michael Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig has backed my view that he should go."

Two former Garda stations in Donegal were among four in the North-West which have sold at auction today for a combined total of at least €322,000.

Six stations were up for sale with minimums ranging from €40,000 to €90,000. One sale was postponed over a title issue and another lot was withdrawn after failing to attract a bid.

The properties included a 195 sqm former station at Churchill, with four bedrooms, a public office and two file stores with a minimum price of €75,000. It was withdrawn at €60,000 and sold for a higher price immediately afterwards.

Bidders were also interested in a 203.2sqm two storey detached property in Glencolumbkille, Co Donegal, with four bedrooms, two offices and two store rooms. It sold for €55,000, its advised minimum value.

The most expensive former Garda station was a listed building with a minimum price of €90,000 in Dromod, Co Leitrim – a 19th century, two storey limestone property extending to 142.6 sqm. This sold for €142,000.

With a starting price of €40,000, a former station in Easkey, Co Sligo, had the most modest minimum price of the bunch but it sold for €65,000.

According to the Irish Times, there were about 30 people bidding in the Sligo Park Hotel, according to auctioneer Robert Ganly. Among them was a woman who had travelled specially from the United States.

Mr Ganly said the prices reflected the amount of refurbishment work required. “The one in Easkey is in very poor condition. Bear in mind they are actually police stations so they need a lot of work to bring them back into a family home.”

The properties were sold on instruction from the OPW. Mr Ganly said he was pleased with the auction, adding that the stations sold in less than 20 minutes.

He said Ganly Walters auctioneers have now sold close to 20 former Garda stations across the State. “We held the first ever auction in February 2014 of I think it was seven Garda stations around the country, mostly around the midlands. Then we did some in Kilkenny, Wexford, Offally this year and now we’re doing a batch up in Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal.

“They get quite a lot of interest. They’re ideal for local housing needs. And 99 times out of a hundred they’re either bought by somebody from the locality or an expat returning home.”

GLENSWILLY GAA NOTES

Congrats to Paddy Tinney

Well done to club member Paddy Tinney who has been appointed as the incoming assistant treasurer for the Donegal County Board. Paddy was voted in at the board's convention in the Mount Errigal Hotel on Sunday last. Well done Paddy on out appointment.

Donegal Yearbook now available

The Donegal GAA Yearbook is now available for club members through treasurer Bryan Faul. The book will make a perfect sticking filler for members for Christmas.

Scor

A meeting will take place in the clubhouse at 8pm on Thursday, Dec 17th for anyone interested in getting involved in the senior Scor competition. The competition is due to take place in January. Anyone interested but unable to attend the meeting can contact Sharon McGinty on 0863629737.

Bingo

The bingo will continue on Wednesdays over the Christmas period without a break which means it will be on as usual on December 23rd and, December 30th. The bingo starts at 9pm but players are asked to be there early.

Lotto note

Can anyone who is unable to sell the lotto on their designated night please contact any committee member or the treasurer if they are not in a position to do so.

Notes

Can anyone who has anything for the weekly club notes please email them to stephenwmaguire@gmail.com before Monday night. Thank you.

UNDERAGE PRESENTATION

Our underage presentations were held last weekend with awards being presented by county stars Leo McLoone and Geraldine McLaughlin. The girl’s award for under 10 outstanding contribution was won by Caitlin McLaughlin. The under 10 most improved player was won by Alana Glackin. The under 10 player of the year was won by Aisling O’Neill. The under 12 final player of the match was won by Aine Monagle. The under 12 most improved player was won by Courtney O’Connor. The under 12 player of the year was won by Sophie Murphy. The most improved under 14 player was won by Rachel Harkin. The under 14 player of the year was won by Tara O’Connor. The Mary Houten tournament runner-up team were Aine McColgan, Suzie Lafferty, Caoimhe McCallion, Claire McGilloway and Sarah Glackin. The winning team was Caitlin Kelly, Aisling O’Neill, Aine Monagle and Caitlin Monagle.

MOVILLE MINORS
The Moville Minor Ladies were well beaten last Sunday by Clann Eireann in the Ulster Minor Final in Celtic Park. The Club would like to congratulate Moville on getting to the Minor Final, a fantastic achievement and commiserate them on a tough loss. A very special Well Done to our own Aoife McColgan, the Moville goalkeeper, who won Player of the Match for her magnificent display denying Clann Eireann on numerous occasions with her outstanding saves.

LOTTO

There was no winner of this week’s jackpot of €700. The numbers drawn were 3-6-1-7-2-5-4 and the €50 winner was Pauline McLaughlin (F), Auchayclay with the €20 seller prize going to Christopher McLaughlin, Auchayclay. Next week’s jackpot is €750.

SHOP

The club shop is open every Saturday from 12.00 – 2.00 and Sunday from 11.20 –  2.00 or alternatively contact Susan Byrne on 9370638 or 0867832242 . The shop also has a great range of stock in all sizes including coats, jackets, hoodies, tracksuits, socks, shorts, hats, new gear bags and much more club merchandise. Make sure to order soon to make sure any Christmas presents are in stock.

The Tree of Remembrance is launched.

The Letterkenny Rotary Club Christmas Tree of Remembrance is up and running again this year at the Letterkenny Shopping Centre.

This Tree is where you can dedicate a yellow ribbon in memory of someone who has passed away, someone who is not able to come home at Christmas, or just to indicate that you are thinking of dear ones now at this special Festive time.

A ribbon costs a mere €2 or you can just make a small donation, depending on your circumstances.  All the proceeds are in aid of the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Donegal Youth Services Youth Club & The Loft in Letterkenny, and of course, Rotary International Charities.

The idea is to have the whole tree covered in Ribbons by Christmas time.  Kids just love clipping them on and seeing the number of ribbons increase each time they go past.   The Tree is manned all the time by Rotarians accompanied by volunteers from the nominated recipients, and therefore all dedications remain totally confidential.  We’re extry fortunate this year to have members of Transition Students from both the Loreto Convent and St. Eunan’s College helping us out.

The Ribbons will all be taken to St. Eunan’s Cathedral for a Special Dedication Ceremony on Sunday 10th January at 4pm and everyone is invited to come along and be a part of that wonderful Ecumenical Service.   Naturally tea and refreshments afterwards, and everyone is invited to come along. The Ribbons are then shredded for complete confidentiality.

Marian Harkin, MEP

MEP Marian Harkin has blasted those blaming Europe for the floods crisis - saying the failure to dredge rivers like the Finn is the real cause of the crisis...and those who should have done it.

“It’s past time for the responsible agencies in Ireland, be they Inland Waterways, the OPW or the Department of the Environment to come together and take immediate, informed decisions as to the dredging of various rivers in order to mitigate future flood risks instead of sitting on their hands, looking over their shoulders and always blaming Brussels for their inaction," said Harkin.

“When a crisis arises, crisis measures are required instead of constantly second guessing decisions taken. The responsibility for all of this lies at the door of the Minister and the Department of the Environment who are in a position to find and implement workable solutions."

Speaking in the European Parliament in Strasbourg last night, she said :“Over the last week excessive levels of rainfall has resulted in widespread flooding in Ireland and significant damage has been done to people’s homes, businesses and farmland.

"While action needs to be taken at national level, there is a European dimension. First we must assess the damage, to see if there is a basis to apply for the Solidarity Fund. Secondly, we need to make better use of regional funds to put in place flood defences. The previous Commissioner Hahn confirmed to me that regional funds could be used for this purpose.

“Finally and indeed the most urgent issue is that time and time again we are told, you can’t dredge or drain our rivers, European legislation, the Habitats Directive won’t allow it. I don’t believe this Directive was ever intended to stop reasonable, workable, and effective flood mitigation measures. We need to get our act together in Ireland, have one body in place, overseeing and managing this issue and do what needs to be done - do what works!”

CAPPRY ROVERS NEWS:
CAPPRY ROVERS LOTTO

The numbers drawn in last week's draw were 3, 8, 12, 22.

There was no jackpot winner.
The winner of the €50 lucky ticket was Patrick McBride, Roadhouse Bar.
The numbers drawn in this week's draw were 12, 15, 16, 18.
There was no jackpot winner.
The winner of the €50 lucky ticket was Lacey Gallen, Blue Cedars.
Next weeks jackpot is €4050.
Remember if you're not in, you can't win!!!
FOOTBALL FOR ALL AGE GROUPS CANCELLED UNTIL THE NEW YEAR
Football has been cancelled until the new year for all teams from the seniors downwards.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our club members, players, managers, coaches and supporters a very peaceful and Happy Christmas and wish them all the best in 2016.
CAPPRY ROVERS U12's

Cappry Rovers have learned over the weekend that they will play Evergreen FC, Kilkenny at home in the next round of the National Cup. This game will be played on the last weekend of January.
LAST MAN STANDING
Congratulations to Patrick Gallagher and David Carr who were the last two standing and have decided to split the pot.
CONDOLENCES

All at Cappry Rovers would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Cahir O'Donnell and all his family members on the recent passing of his mother Cora O'Donnell.

Club Lotto Result: There was no winner of the Lotto Jackpot of €3,600 in week 21 and week 22 of the 2015/2016 season draw held in the Abbey Hotel on Monday December 7th and 14th. The €25 winners in the Lucky Dip on the 7th of December were Joyce Mc Mullin, Drumenney, Pat Brogan, Ballydevitt, Nick Ruck, The Glebe and Mae Timoney, Doonan. The numbers drawn were 1, 16, 22, and 24. The €25 winners in the Lucky Dip on 14th December were Cormac Oates, Woodvale, Paul Greene, Drimark, John Bradley, Clogher, and Kieran Espey, Ballhill. The numbers drawn were 2, 4, 15, and 23 with the jackpot now standing at €3,700. New members are still welcome so why not play online now at www.fourmastersgaa.com

Club Plus Season Tickets: the club has season tickets available for €200. The season ticket entitles you to entry to all Donegal league games in the National League, their first championship game and preference for games thereafter in the championship; entry to all club league and championship games in Donegal (including underage games) and club membership. Contact Paul Timoney on 0872791305 if interested.

Congratulations: Huge well done to clubman Sean Dunnion who was re-elected as Donegal Chairman for 2016 at the annual convention held  in Letterkenny at the weekend.

Training times: Indoor training for boys aged 5 and 6 years of age continues in the AVS on Tuesdays from 5:45pm to 6:45pm.

Senior men’s football: the play off against Bundoran for Division 1 status takes place this weekend in Ballyshannon. The game throws in at 1pm on Sunday, all support welcome for the lads in this very important game.

Children from Stramore National School, Glendowan who are the only natonal school from Donegal competing in the young Scientist of the Year Competition in January at the RDS. The students with the help of their parents have completed their tests to show the benefits of drinking 2 litres of water a day as part of a daily intake. and will exhibit their results at the start of the year in the finals in Dublin. Photo Brian McDaid

'Water' time it is for students at Stramaore National School in Glendowan!

The school are exhibiting their science project at the RDS Primary Science Fair for the very first time and are the only primary school in Donegal entering this year.

Stramore senior classes were delighted to accept an invitation to exhibit their project on their question ‘Does drinking two litres of water a day improve our health and wellbeing?’

The students in 5th and 6th classes have been busy, since October last, sending out questionnaires and rating scales to parents and friends of the school asking them to measure their waistlines, resting heart beat and weight before committing to drinking two litres of water a day for five weeks.

We all on the water. Seriously..
Parents and friends of the students at Stramore National School, Glendowan pictured as they celebrate their completion of test carried out by their children who are preparing for the young scientist of the year competition in January, The children have just finished their tests where their parents and friends joined in on tests in their homes on the importance of water in the our daily diet. Photo Brian McDaid

Participants recorded their measurements each week for five weeks. Results after drinking water for five weeks are interesting and thought provoking. Most participants are reporting clearer skin, better sleep patterns, more energy, better mood and some weight loss.

The Stramore children are delighted with their results and would encourage everybody to drink more water. They also designed and made stethoscopes, some of which work just as well as a ‘real medical’ stethoscope which really was surprising yet exciting. Thanks to Bella, Cresslough Medical centre for the loan of a Stethoscope, which the children explored thoroughly.

Over 300 classes applied this year to enter the Primary Science fair, that’s over 7,500 children, which is a huge increase compared to last year.

This January 2016 over 4,500 fourth, fifth and sixth class students from across the country will be at one of the RDS Primary Science Fairs (RDS Dublin and Limerick). Working under the supervision of their teacher, the entire class is encouraged to be inquisitive and curious about the world around them, with class projects that answer questions such as ‘Can I charge my mobile device with a fruit or vegetable?’ ‘How clean are our pencils?’ And ‘Why does bread get hard and biscuits get soft?’

The RDS Primary Science Fair encourages primary school teachers to focus on developing students’ core scientific skills by investigating a question or problem by ‘working scientifically’ and ‘designing and making’ as per the primary science curriculum. Teachers’ feedback indicates that it’s not just science skills that benefit but that literacy, oral language and numeracy skills can improve through participation.

International studies have also demonstrated a direct link between primary school science engagement and later academic science achievement.

Meanwhile Stramore children say: Remember to drink more water!

Deputy Mac Lochlainn

Speaking on the potential introduction of a student loan scheme following a government commissioned report on third level funding, Sinn Féin TD for Donegal  Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has said that saddling students with debt is not a substitute for a decent grant system.

Deputy Mac Lochlainn warned: “It is Sinn Féin’s position that education should be free and that the current grant system should be enhanced and reformed so that it is fair and equitable.

“We believe that that an educated, vibrant workforce is key to rebuilding our economy. As such, it is essential that young people are encouraged to upskill and become educated at third level.

“The government should not create barriers or deterrents in our educational system.

“Over the past number of the years, the grant system has been chipped away with the government changing the rules to exclude greater numbers of people or give them less support, for example, by changing the adjacent and non-adjacent rate.

“We do not want to see a situation whereby the government introduce a loan system that effectively eradicates the grant scheme by stealth, so we have major concerns about these proposals.

“We welcome the publication of the report and will provide further comment when we have the detail of the proposals in full.”

Adam and his family and teacher Geraldine Galligan celebrate with the Minister and Brent Pope!

A young Donegal primary school pupil has scooped a top award for his video 'Someone Like Me' which promotes positive attitudes towards disability.

Minister of State for New Communities, Culture, Equality and Drugs Strategy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin presented 6th class pupil Adam Savva from Glenswilly N.S, with a prestigious county award for his inspirational video.

The award was presented at a special ceremony held in Farmleigh House in Dublin.

The awards saw primary school students from around the country arrive at Farmleigh House as part of a national essay competition hosted by the Department of Justice and Equality to promote positive attitudes towards disability in primary schools.

The competition was entitled ‘Someone Like Me’.  The students in attendance were shortlisted for their entries, which saw a mix of written and video essays, with many showcasing their own disabilities or those of their friends and families, all with a common theme of celebration.

Adam receives his award from the Minister.

Minister of State for New Communities, Culture, Equality and Drugs Strategy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin commented “ I am absolutely delighted to meet each and every one of today’s finalists and present them with their award. I understand from the judges that the quality of the entries has been exceptional and the enthusiasm of the schools, teachers and students wonderful. The primary schools competition is an excellent opportunity for the youngest members of society to have a carefully thought out conversation around disabilities against the backdrop of the classroom. It is so important to drive this agenda from a young age and teach children to respect themselves and how unique they are and also to respect the uniqueness of the people around them. Adam is a thoroughly inspiring winner and his entry was excellent”.

The Judging panel for the competition included Brent Pope, rugby analyst and author of many children’s books including Woody the Whale, The Wheezing Wolf, Bones, Arnold The Anteater and The Adventures of Herbie.

He joined acclaimed Galway children’s author Deirdre Sullivan and a range of other judges to choose the national winner.

“I was delighted to act as a judge for the competition and was really drawn to the theme of Someone Like Me. I am no stranger to feeling different and really believe it is so important that we celebrate our uniqueness, what sets us apart. Writing and expressing ourselves is a terrific way to do this and I spent a lot of time reviewing the entries. I was really blown away by the standard of the essays and the story many of them were telling. I absolutely loved Adam’s entry”. Commented Brent Pope

About brillant Adam:

Adam Savva attends Glenswilly N.S.

Adam produced a fantastic video titled ‘Someone like me’ all by himself with only a little help from his teacher Geraldine Galligan who directed it.

An incredible effort was put into the video and starred the entire school. It shows a great sense of community spirit, we are sure Hollywood will be calling him any day now!

Malin Head by Ronan McLaughlin

THERE has been a mixed response to plans for developments at Malin Head.

Politicians have welcomed a €400,000 tourism plan - but photographer and environmentalist Ronan McLaughlin says he believes the plans will destroy the natural beauty of the area.

McLaughlin said the natural habitat will be replaced with tar as roads are widened and extra parking spaces are provided.

And he has criticised Donegal County Council which has ruled an environmental impact study is not required.

Inishowen's Sinn Féin team of Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn and Cllrs Jack Murray and Albert Doherty have issued a joint statement welcoming confirmation that €400,000 has been been allocated to Donegal County Council to develop facilities at Malin Head.

It reads: "We welcome the allocation of monies to develop Malin Head. This is a key tourism attraction in Inishowen and Donegal, bringing tens of thousands of people here every year.

"It is essential that tourists are welcomed with state of the art facilities when they arrive. As such Sinn Féin representatives and others have repeatedly raised the need need for funding with Fáilte Ireland and the government.

"Thankfully this funding has now been approved. The plans for road widening works are vital for visiting buses, as are toilet facilities and parking spaces.

"We are hopeful that any development which takes place will be done so without a negative impact on the landscape and we will work closely with council staff to ensure that this is the case."

At the launch of Pat Spillane's Football Team of the Second Millennium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with Naomh Alee GAA Club, were:
(Back Row - L to R) Brid O'Riordan (Cork) - Secretary Naomh Alee, Patrick Moynagh (Cavan) - Club Chairman, Michael Brennan (Galway) Senior Coach
(Front Row - L to R) Charles Sullivan (Cork) Club President, Pat Spillane, Irish Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Mr Tony Cotter

Pat Spillane pictured with the Rosses & Gaoth Dobahir gang in Saudi.
L-R: Brendan Butcher Boyle, Micheal Boyle, Denis O Donnell, Pat Spillane, PJ Rodgers, Francie McKelvey, Shaun O Donnell, Caroline McGroary, Owenie McBride, Shaun Rodgers.

Former Kerry GAA star and Sunday Game panellist Pat Spillane has named Jim McGuinness as the best manager of this Millennium.

Spillane has been critical of McGuinness in the past, but he named him as the best manager of this Millennium at an event in Saudi Arabia.

Spillane was a guest of honour at Naomh Alee GAA Club in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

He was also asked to named his best FIFTEEN players of this Millennium - and Michael Murphy was the only Donegal player to make his selection.

Spillane was vocal in his disdain for the brand of football introduced by McGuinness in 2011.

At half-time during Donegal's infamous All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Dublin in 2011 - Spillane blasted McGuinness.

At half-time in the encounter he said, "Michael, I don't know what to say, I don't know whether to laugh or cry.

"I can understand the effectiveness of this defensive system, I can understand they're not in the business of entertainment, and I know it's all about results.

"But honestly, do you remember that tribe in Iraq called the Shiite Tribe - well we've watched Shiite football!

"There's people go to The Hague for war crimes, some of the modern day GAA coaches should be brought their for crimes against Gaelic football.

However, Donegal regrouped and won the All-Ireland title in 2012 - and lost the All-Ireland final in 2014 before McGuinness departed.

However, the outspoken pundit has changed his tune and now feels McGuinness has been the best manager of the last fifteen years.

Others will point to Mickey Harte, who helped Tyrone win THREE All-Irelands in a five-year period from 2003-2008.

Jack O'Connor also won THREE All-Ireland titles with Kerry, while Jim Gavin has helped Dublin to win TWO in the last number of years.

The Central Statistics Office has announced that the application process for census enumerators will open on January 5 with 180 enumerators being recruited in Co. Donegal.

The ten-week position is worth €2,400.

Census 2016 takes place on Sunday, 24th April and a total of 4,660 enumerators will be recruited to deliver and collect more than 2.3 million forms across a ten week period.

Applications will be taken online between Tuesday 5th and Friday 8th January or when the number of applicants reaches 15,000.

CSO Director General Padraig Dalton explained how important the role of the enumerator is: “The census provides invaluable information on a range of topics and is used by every government department and local authority in the country. Census data feeds into the planning stages of most aspects of Irish life, such as schools, train lines and childcare facilities. It is the CSO’s largest and most challenging statistical undertaking and simply could not be completed without the diligence of the enumerators”.

According to Deirdre Cullen, Head Statistician at the CSO, “Demand for these posts is always incredibly high. If you are interested in becoming a census enumerator, you are strongly advised to apply early. Applications will be taken on census.ie from Tuesday 5 January. ”.

Enumerators are paid a fixed fee for the delivery and collection of census forms in their area along with fixed allowances for training, home storage, Sunday working, terminal bonus and travel. Enumerators will earn approximately €2,400 for the ten week period. All enumerators are required to be signed up as Officers of Statistics which forbids them from divulging any information obtained as part of their official duties.

Ten facts about Census 2016

The next census will take place on the night of Sunday 24th April 2016.
The last census was held on Sunday 10th April 2011.
Census 2011 told us that the population of Ireland on that night was 4,588,252 persons.
Census 2016 will be the 25th census taken in Ireland.
More than 2.3 million census forms have been printed by the Central Statistics Office.
4,660 enumerators will be recruited. Each will earn approximately €2,400.
The census forms will be delivered between 21st March and 24th April.
For census purposes, the country is divided into 44 designated ‘regions’ each comprising 10 ‘field districts’.
The census form contains 30 questions.
The first results from Census 2016 will be published about 12 weeks after the field operation ends.

BUSINESS: The Caith go hÁitiu’il (Shop Local) campaign was embraced by Healthwise Pharmacies and they are reporting a massive response from customers.

Healthwise made a commitment to offer real value and choice within local communities, and director Liam Grimley has reported a huge uptake from customers, with turnover up significantly in all branches.

Healthwise price checked all of their Christmas Gift lines, and expanded the range of goods on offer to meet demand for local customers.

Liam claims that customers have recognised the value on offer, and appreciate the availability of a local selection of gifts to meet all of their requirements.

He believes that the listing on www.healthwisepharmacies.ie or on facebook of a range of promotions has improved customers awareness of the value available.

Healthwise are so delighted with the response to the shop local campaign, that they will now offer a range of crazy one day promotions, where a featured product will be offered with up to 80% off e.g. Jimmy Choo Fragrance reduced from 55.00 to only 10.00.

These promotions will run for one day only ,and will feature high profile luxury brands , so keep an eye on Facebook or the Healthwise website for more information.

Shopping locally saves time & money while supporting Jobs and services in local communities. Healthwise Pharmacies have shown that it can pay for customers to check out the local offers and urge continued support for all local business this Christmas.

Please add click through link to our Website offer page at bottom of feature.

http://healthwisepharmacies.ie/productsoffers/latest-offers/

VOODOO VENUE WEEKEND PICTURE SPECIAL: We had another superb weekend’s entertainment at Voodoo Venue – Donegal’s No 1 nightspot.

At Voodoo revellers have the opportunity of sampling the sounds of Voodoo Lounge, Voodoo Club and Voodoo Vintage, that diversity which caters for all ages is what ultimately makes Voodoo Venue so unique in the entertainment industry.

Every week Voodoo in conjunction with Donegal Daily are giving ONE lucky reader that has been pictured enjoying themselves at Voodoo the chance to win FREE entry for FOUR and a bottle of CHAMPAGNE on their next visit to Voodoo.

It’s simple – if you’re face is circled in the images above then you’ve WON.

Simply contact Voodoo via their Facebook page to claim your prize NOW.

Pearse Doherty TD

DONEGAL TD Pearse Doherty this morning launched his party’s comprehensive plan to deliver a universal healthcare system.

Deputy Doherty said Sinn Féin would use the existing fiscal space to increase spending in health by €3.3billion during the course of a five year term of office.

Deputy Doherty said “Politics is about choices. Fine Gael and the Labour Party have chosen to use the existing fiscal space to cut taxes for the wealthy.

“Sinn Féin makes a different choice. We have chosen to invest in our health services.

“That means over a five year term of government more than three million people will have free GP care and free prescriptions and every seriously ill child will immediately receive a full medical card and there would be a secure medical card for people with disabilities.

“It mean the €100 charge for the use of Emergency Departments would be ended and 6,600additional frontline workers would be employed including 2500 nurses and 800 consultants to deal with the crisis in our A&E department and to reduce waiting times.

“We would invest €15 million in the ambulance service hiring 290 additional staff and funding more ambulances.

“We would provide €238million additional funding for acute hospitals and 3,800 more nursing home beds with a year on year increase of 10% in home help hours and homecare packages.

“Disability services will be prioritised – we will increase the budget by over a quarter of a million as well as increasing personal assistant hours, speech and therapists, occupational therapists and physios.

“We would hire and additional 80 dentists and orthodontists and120 dental nurses and we would expand orthodontic treatment for children, extend the annual dental check-up, and restore public funding for maintenance treatments.

“This is Sinn Féin’s commitment to our health services. It is fully costed and fully achievable. All it requires is political will.

“Fine Gael, Labour and Fianna Fáil will only maintain the current chaos in our health services. Sinn Féin will deliver the required change.”

Rosses AC
Well done to Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair students in the First Year Sportshall Athletics competition Regional Final. 5 schools competed; Rosses Community School , PCC Falcarragh , Gairmscoil Chú Uladh , Mulroy College and Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair as the host school . Pobalscoil girls swept the boards, winning 7 out of 8 individual medals and two out of the three relays finishing up with a 40 point lead. The boys displayed a great team effort all round, performing particularly well in the field events and had 13.5 lead in the final count. Well done to all students from all 5 schools .
Sportshall Athletics will continue on Monday 21st December in Dungloe before taking a break for the Christmas holidays. Sportshall Athletics in Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair will take a break now until after Christmas. Adult training sessions have reverted back to Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Estate in Gweedore starting at 7pm. The sessions will be Tuesday 22nd and Tuesday 29th over the Christmas period. These are group sessions open to all levels of adult athletes from beginners, people looking to transition from Couch-To-5k to next level and experienced and Senior level athletes. We had a number of newcomers last week which was great to see. Paul McGee will continue to coordinate the more experienced athletes with Niall Griffin coordinating the beginner and Novice level athletes. Open to public and not just Rosses members. All levels of athletes or runners welcome. Sunday long runs starting from the Blue Bridge – check with Paul and Niall for times. Some Upcoming fixtures: Saturday 26th December, Darren Mills Memorial 6k, 2:30pm start with Registrations from 1pm, Viking House. Sunday 27th December, 5k or 10k, Tech Jack Gweedore, In Aid of John Coll MS Fund, 1pm start with Registrations from 12. Sunday 3rd January, 5 Mile, Aura Letterkenny, 11:30am.