The Eye ON DONEGAL
ISSN 2565-5981
43
9 772565 598001
€1.50 43 20th December 2018
Thank You
Happy Christmas from everyone here at the Eye on Donegal. We would like to thank you, our readers, for your support and encouragement over the past ten months. We would also like to thank all the advertisers without whom it would not have been financially possible. A special thanks to our contributors and writers who helped make the magazine an interesting read every week. The Eye will not be published during January as the staff get a well‑deserved break! (Cavern Design Printing will be open as normal from Monday 7th January.)
Marie wins Credit Union Car Draw
Ministerial tea break
The Donegal Town Credit Union Christmas Car Draw - the last one of 2018 - was a great success. A large crowd of 539 people (376 adults and 163 children) attended the draw in the St. John Bosco Centre last Wednesday, 12th December. Congratulations go to all winners, in particular to Marie Feely who won the car - a ‘Christmas red’ Skoda Fabia. In addition to the car, there were 107 cash prizes given out totalling €18,900. Check out the full list of winners inside with a photo spread on centre pages.
Post Office Handover Date Set Donegal Town Post Office building on Tirchonaill Street will officially close its doors on Friday 1st February 2019 and the new Post Office in Timony’s Spar Shop on Bridge Street will open for business on Monday 4th February. Speaking with The Eye, Peter Gillespie from An Post Sligo confirmed the dates, “We are presently in the process of developing the new building in Timony’s and plan to have the renovations complete and open for business on Monday the 4th February. Unfortunately the Post Office will be closed on Saturday 2nd February to facilitate the transfer of the computers and equipment from the old Post Office on Tirchonaill Street to the new premises in Timony’s Spar on Bridge Street,” Peter commented.
Hugo Flannery with Minister Joe McHugh who visited Gaelscoil na gCeithre Máistrí on Monday. Photo: Margaret Gallagher
Christmas Party
Pictured right are Maurice Timony and his son Jamie outside their Spar shop where the new Post Office will be located. Continued on Page 3
GLENTIES F94 EP63
www.donegalwaste.com
Now offering Septic Tank Cleaning Grease Trap Cleaning Service
Call us 074 9551412
Frank and Collette Shovlin with Finola Brennan. See more photos inside.
r a B s n a h o M SES FROS 6 074 97 3608
Friday 21st THOMAS McHUGH Saturday 22nd DENNY COLEMAN Sunday 23rd REGAN JAMES Wednesday 26th MARTIN FUREY Thursday 27th KILLIAN BAND QUIZ NIGHT Saturday 29th DARREN “BOOT”
The Olde Castle Bar & Restaurant CASTLE STREET, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: +353 (0) 74 9721262
Email: info@oldecastlebar.com www.oldecastlebar.com
Wishing all our Customers a very Happy Christmas and a great New Year TRADING HOURS Christmas Eve: open for lunch only from 12 noon - 4pm. Bar open normal hours Christmas Day: Closed.
Sunday 30th HUGHIE MAC Monday 31st FOLKSY GERRY Tuesday 1st Jan FOR FOLKS SAKE
Wishing all our customers a merry Christmas and a happy New year
St. Stephen’s Day: Bar only open from 5pm. Thursday 27th December onwards: Open every day as normal.
CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Open Christmas Eve from 8am - 3pm. LAST ORDERS AT 2pm No bookings required. Closed from 25th - 27th December. Re-opening Friday 28th December for usual hours 8am - 5pm daily.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at BLAS and The Gateway Lodge.
The Salmon Inn BAR & RESTAURANT Seafood a Speciality
Chandpur
INDIAN RESTAURANT Unit 4, Main Street, Donegal Town • Sunday all you can eat buffet 1pm-5pm. €10.95 per person • Early Bird - three courses Mon-Fri 5-7pm, only €15.95pp Open: Mon-Sat 4-11pm; Sun 1-10pm TAKE AWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE
CHRISTMAS OPENING
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers Mullinasole, Laghey, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9734040 From NI 0035374-9734040
Normal hours except: Christmas Eve 4-9pm; CLOSED Christmas Day & St Stephens Day OPEN New Years Eve 4-10pm BOOKING OVER FESTIVE PERIOD VERY ADVISABLE
Twice winner of Best Indian Restaurant in Ireland
074 97 25452
www.chandpurdonegal.com
La Bella Donna AWARD WINNING • FULLY LICENSED
Italian Restaurant
BELLINI COCKTAIL BAR NOW OPEN
Christmas Party Menus Group Bookings available
PASTA, PIZZA, SALADS, STEAKS, CHICKEN & SEAFOOD Bridge Street, Donegal Town
Tel: 074 9725790
www.labelladonnarestaurant.com
Post Office Handover Date Set …continued from Front Page The new post office will have a state of the art counter with modern facilities to assist with parcel post. The counter will have three serving positions with services as normal and there is the possibility that some of the present post office personnel will be re‑employed to help with the transition. Any new employees will be fully trained by An Post and services will be professionally administered as usual. The building on Tirchonaill Street which houses the present post office will be retained by An
THE DIAMOND, DONEGAL TOWN
TEL: 074 97 21232
OPEN 9.10am - 6.10pm Mon-Sat
John, Madeline, Family & Staff of Begley’s Pharmacy wish all our customers a Very Happy Christmas and a Healthy & Peaceful New Year. Thank you for your custom in 2018 and we look forward to serving you in 2019 in our Family Run business for over 30 years.
OUR CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES
Sunday 23rd 1pm-5pm Monday 24th 9.10am-6.10pm Tuesday 25th CLOSED Wednesday 26th Closed Thursday 27th 10.30am - 6.10pm Tuesday 1st January CLOSED WE WISH TO ADVISE OUR CUSTOMERS THAT WE HAVE FREE CUSTOMER PARKING. NEW BARRIER IN PLACE FOR YOUR COMFORT & SAFETY
Post and will become the Mail Centre for the region. With regard to the parking at the Post Office on Tirchonaill Street, Mr Gillespie could not comment as it was a decision for the Mail Centre but did not rule out a parking barrier. Retiring Postmaster Mary Harley who has worked in Donegal Town Post Office since 1986, first as a clerk and then as postmaster, will close the doors for the last time at Donegal Post Office on Tirchonaill Street on Friday the 1st February 2019 at 5.30pm and Mr Gillespie conveyed his good wishes on behalf of An Post to her.
LA FIESTA
CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Thurs 20th Fri 21st Sat 22nd Sun 23rd Mon 24th Tues 25th Wed 26th Thurs 27th Fri 28th Sat 29th Sun 30th Mon 31st Tues 1st Jan
4-10pm 12noon-10pm 12noon-10pm 5-9pm Closed Closed Closed Closed 12noon-10pm 12noon-10pm 5-9pm 4-10pm Closed
Authentic MEXICAN Restaurant
Feliz Navidad
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 4-10pm; Friday and Saturday 12noon - 10pm
MERCHANT COURT, THE DIAMOND, DONEGAL TOWN. Email: lafiestadonegal@outlook.com
Tel: 074 9742542
ar e w
Ch
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L AL arty E P C I s a R m P t s i
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L A H
Wishing You All A Wonderful Christmas From All At
A new chapter for Tirchonaill Bridge Margaret Gallagher
On Monday The Eye on Donegal caught up with the engineer on Tirchonaill Bridge, Peter Kennedy, who talked passionately about the bridge and his work so far. Peter, who was born in Belfast and brought up in Canada, is no stranger to Donegal Town having played around the castle and Tirchonaill Bridge as a child on his visits to his aunt and uncle, Terry and the late Mairead Woods. Peter works for Roughan and O’Donovan Consulting Engineers who are based in Dublin. He told The Eye, “I have worked all around the world on major jobs but I have to say I have enjoyed this project more than most. I am very aware that this is a very historical project to the people of Donegal and how important the bridge is to the fabric of the town.”
Pictured below is Cllr Tom Conaghan with engineer Peter Kennedy
Greene & Ganly Certified Public Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers
Thomas Ganly FCPA CTA
BUSINESS TAX SPECIALISTS FOR EXPERT ADVICE ON ALL TAXES The Glebe, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal Email: greenetax@eircom.net Tel: (074) 9721940
as and Merry Christm ew a Prosperous N clients Year to all our
The new green panels of the bridge being lifted into place last week. The original stone of the bridge has all been used again in the re‑construction, the parapet has been raised for safety reasons as previously it was low and somewhat hazardous. The extra sandstone needed for this was supplied by McMonagle Stone, Mountcharles. The new bridge which was fabricated in Tipperary by Mackey Engineering arrived last week and, all going to plan, the work on Tirchonaill Bridge which started last August will be finished on schedule at the end of January 2019. A lattice along the top of the parapet is part of the new design of the bridge which is green in colour. When asked about the colour Peter commented the original bridge was a railway bridge and this was one of the original colours used. The engineer revealed that while dismantling the old bridge they found two very interesting artefacts - “Under the original steel bridge which was constructed
in 1895 we found a spud wrench and on the next day a stone mason’s chisel embedded in the mortar and in very good condition. This chisel could be 123 years old and both are now with the county museum. Weather conditions were very much in our favour during the construction and the great team of workmen from LM Keating have great pride in their work with their project manager being a local man, Barry Doherty, from Inver,” Peter said. The plaque carrying the name Tirchonaill bridge is still in place and the only other difference is that there will be double lighting on the bridge and underneath it making this area of town brightly lit. Peter concluded, “I am very keen to see the Bridge finished which hopefully will be there for the next 300 years and I must say I have really enjoyed reading the history of the bridge and Donegal Town in The Eye.”
Britton’s Pharmacy your family
MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN TEL: 074 9721008
www.brittonspharmacy.com
Christmas Opening Times
Wishing our customers, friends and family a very Happy, Healthy Christmas. Thank you most sincerely for your custom this year.
Donegal (Britton’s Pharmacy) Christmas Day - CLOSED St. Stephen’s Day - CLOSED Reopening -Thursday 27th December from 10am-4pm. Normal opening hours - from Friday 28th December. Closed - New Year’s Day.
Warm regards, Joe, Gada, and our wonderful staff
Mountcharles (Village Pharmacy) Christmas Day - CLOSED St. Stephen’s Day - Open for emergencies 11am-4pm.
Christmas 2018
at McGROARTY’S EXPERT ELECTRICAL
Rowing Championships for Donegal
Seamus Maguire
Loughros Point Rowing Club and Donegal Bay Rowing Club and Gym have secured the hosting of the 2020 Coastal and Offshore championships in August and September 2020 respectively. The two clubs started on the journey together and this relationship has borne the test of time. Rivals on the water, great friends off it, collectively promoting and developing the sports in Donegal. Thanks to the ESB for their continued support at our training facility, the community and businesses of South West Donegal. Thank you to the Rowing Ireland family of clubs and committees for their continued support and assistance. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone! Photo: Ivor Glenn
Celebrating 20 years in business
Celebrations are in full swing up at Linda’s Diner as Linda and Jon celebrate 20 years in business.
Linda Martin and Jon Geary married in August 1998 and four months later on December 14th the happy couple opened the doors of Linda’s Krusty Kitchen. Beginning as a coffee shop with seating for thirty customers and employing three staff it soon became a popular eatery specializing in all day breakfasts. Linda told The Eye, “I worked with my father, Charlie Martin, in The Star Bar and always wanted to have a place of my own and was delighted when we opened Linda’s Krusty Kitchen. Jon who was out at sea fishing on the ‘Mary M’ off the Norway coast agreed to come on board in Linda’s to help out for a few weeks. Twenty years on he is still here chefing in the kitchen and the rest is history.” Linda’s Krusty Kitchen went from strength to strength and rebranded six years ago as “Linda’s Diner” which now seats one hundred customers over two floors. The popular Diner presently employs twenty staff and is open seven days a week from 8am 7pm. Jon told The Eye, “We have built up a very busy breakfast trade and we have a lot of workers now in the morning with all the development taking place around town. It takes us back to the time of the by-pass construction which saw a great boost to business. Most certainly there now is a boost in the economy of Donegal as we see lots of workmen dropping in for breakfast. Of course the development of Aldi was also a great help to our business but it highlighted more than ever that we need to get more parking in the town.” Jon and Linda, who have three children - Ryan, Darragh and Laura - have also another chapter to their story having recently opened “Little Mamma’s” on The Diamond which has proved to be most popular. Congratulations to Jon and Linda on their 20th anniversary in Linda’s Diner and we wish them continued success.
Donegal Spa Baths
From the 1995 book ‘Donegal, Past and Present’ by Joe McGarrigle. With thanks to his daughter Geraldine. Despite diligent research I could find no document reference to the Donegal Spa Baths prior to 1820 when Edmund Davey, Professor of Chemistry in the Royal Dublin Society carried out an analysis of the water. The baths would appear to have been well established at that date, however, and were likely in operation for many years prior – probably since the late 1700s. In 1834, for instance, Henry Inglis in his ‘Journey Throughout Ireland’ writing about a visit to Donegal Town commented, “I noticed several new buildings which I believe owe their existence to a spa which during the summer months attracts a fair share of visitors.” The Spa Baths were featured in the writing of almost all the biographers passing this way. John Barrow in A Tour of Ireland in 1836: “I found to my mortification that the only hotel in the town was full of visitors who usually resort thither during the summer months to drink the waters of the spa in the neighbourhood. From what I have heard others say the Donegal Spa water is as nearly as possible of the same quality as the hepatic waters of Harrowgate.” Similarly when staying in the town in 1837 Frances and Emily Ponsonboy, daughters of Bishop Richard Ponsonboy, in their Diary of a Tour through Donegal wrote, “We went to see the famous spa near the town which we tasted and found the water a disagreeable taste but is reckoned very wholesome for people with delicate stomachs”. The ladies were impressed with the baths, “This is a very nice establishment of hot and cold baths of every description.” Praise like this coming from ladies who had travelled extensively and would have presumably been comparing the spa with standards experienced abroad gives us some idea of the extent of the Donegal operation.
GET THAT TREND
Opening Hours for the Festive Season Friday 21st
10AM - 6PM
Saturday 22nd 10AM - 6PM Sunday 23rd
12PM - 4PM
Monday 24th 10AM - 5PM CLOSED
Tuesday 25th
Wednesday 26th CLOSED Thursday 27th
CLOSED
Friday 28th 12PM - 6PM
Saturday 29th 12PM - 6PM Sunday 30th Monday 31st
12PM - 4PM 12PM - 4PM
Tuesday 1st Wednesday 2nd
CLOSED CLOSED
Thursday 3rd 10AM - 6PM
Open 24/7 online at www.getthattrend.com Check out our store: Drimark, Killybegs Road, Donegal Town Phone us! 074 97 21574
Wishing all of our family and friends a very Happy Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. Dorothy and David Henderson Donation in lieu of sending cards has been given to charity.
Best Wishes for Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all our customers from
Keelogs, Inver, Co. Donegal Tel/Fax: (074) 9736430 Mobile: 087 677 5159 Email: jcmcdaid@eircom.net
Actress with Frosses connections in new Jennifer Lopez movie
Kevin, Sharon and Ronan Meehan would like to wish their family and friends a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year. In lieu of Christmas cards, a donation will be made to the Bluestack Foundation.
Dierdre Friel whose late grandparents Connie and Teresa Friel were from Meenagran, Frosses is featured in the new movie, “Second Act” which stars Jennifer Lopez, Freddie Storma and Treat Williams and is directed by famed Hollywood director Peter Segal. Dierdre has been acting on Broadway for a few years. In the hit series on tv “The Sopranos” she featured as Sandy. In a series which recently started on NBC television in United States, Dierdre plays the part of Ella in “New Amsterdam” which is an American medical drama based on the book “Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital”. Dierdre spends many holidays in South West Donegal where her parents Danny and Margaret Friel have a holiday home on St. John’s Point. Keep an eye out for her.
Happy Christmas to all Slimming World Members past and present and a bright, healthy and happy New Year Connie @ Donegal Town Slimming World
Danny and Margaret Friel (St. John’s Point) with their daughter Dierdre at the première of “Second Act” in New York City
By our Showbiz correspondent, Colm Kelly
LEGHOWNEY NEWS
with Nuala Toland
LEGHOWNEY MARKET SPECIAL
leaving from outside the Abbey Hotel, the
CHRISTMAS FAIR - SAT. 22ND
Diamond, Donegal Town at 10am. Come
DECEMBER 10AM TO 1PM.
along and enjoy a cooked breakfast as well
Leghowney Country Market will hold a Special Extra Christmas Fair on Saturday
We wish all our clients a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year Tirconnaill Street, Donegal Town, F94 YA34
as some stress-free Christmas retail therapy on your own doorstep.
22nd December 10am to 1pm. This will be a great opportunity to pick up some
CHRISTMAS BINGO
last minute unique hand-crafted gifts and
Big Christmas Bingo in St. Bridget’s
Christmas goodies for the festive feast.
Community Centre, Ballintra on Sunday
Santa is sending two of his elves to read
23rd December at 3pm, with €1,600 in cash
some Christmas stories for the children
prizes to be won. Free Draw entry to all
and festive face painting by Nuala will be
players. Come along, it may be your lucky
available on the day. Local Link bus service
day.
Tel: 074 9721908 Fax: 074 9722488
The information in the “Eye on Donegal” is carefully researched and believed to be accurate but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements.
www.eyeondonegal.com
Printed and published in Donegal Town by Cavern Design Ltd.
© 1993-2018
A big thank you for all your support during 2018 and we look forward to welcoming you in 2019.
BACK ISSUES of every
Eye on Donegal are available
Order by phone, email or call in to Cavern Design Printing Pay with cash, on the phone or online If you cannot collect we can deliver for you to the outlet where you normally buy your Eye on Donegal
Cavern Design Printing, Castle Centre, Donegal Town
Call: 074 9722677 Email: look@eyeondonegal.com
Christmas - or plum - Pudding Christmas pudding is a type of pudding
and its long cooking time. The mixture can
set alight. It can be eaten with hard sauce i.e.
traditionally served as part of the Christmas
be moistened with the juice of citrus fruits,
brandy butter; or cream, lemon cream, ice
dinner. It has its origins in medieval
brandy and other alcohol.
cream or custard.
England, and is sometimes known as plum
Initial cooking usually involves steaming
Many families now buy their puddings
pudding - in pre-Victorian England raisins
for many hours. To serve, the pudding
ready-made from shops and they can be
were called "plums" which led to the name.
is reheated by steaming once more, and
reheated in a microwave oven with a much
The pudding is composed of many
traditionally dressed with brandy which is
shorter cooking time.
dried fruits held together by egg and suet, sometimes moistened by treacle or molasses and flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger and other spices. The pudding is usually aged for some months; the high alcohol content of the pudding prevents it from spoiling during this time. Many households have their own recipe for Christmas pudding, some handed down through families for generations. Essentially the recipe brings together what traditionally were expensive or luxurious ingredients — notably the sweet spices that are so important in developing its distinctive rich aroma. It is very dark in appearance — very nearly black — as a result of the dark sugars and black treacle in most recipes,
Car Loans REDUCED RATE
6.7% APR 6.93%
Special Rate Available from 01/11/2018 to 28/02/2019
For a €10,000, 5 year variable loan with weekly repayments of €45.86 and an interest rate of 6.7% (APR 6.93%), the total amount repayable will be €11,739.67. Your loan will be assessed in line with your repayment capacity. Terms and conditions Apply. Donegal Town Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
DONEGAL TOWN CREDIT UNION
Unit 13, Millcourt Mews, The Diamond, Donegal Town Tel: 074 97 22862 enrightaine@gmail.com
OPEN 28th, 29th and 31st December at 10am SEE YOU THERE!
Happy Christmas to you and yours from all at Aine’s Inspirations It’s not too late to get appointments ring now 0749723862 LATE OPENING HOURS: WED 19th; THURS 20th; FRI 21st until 8pm. SAT 22nd until 6pm
074 97 22862
/Ainesinspirations
For your
HEALTH and WELL BEING Learn how to…
BREATHE BETTER and beat colds, asthma, snoring, allergies etc.
Contact: Alec Reid, Qualified Buteyko Therapist
087 9340 194
Gardening with Emer LAST MINUTE GIFT IDEAS As the end of the countdown to Christmas is near,
Potted arrangements are often a popular present
the familiar yearly panic might be setting in. There
for teachers, neighbours and family. The gift of
are a number of us that will be looking for some last
a tree is perfect for a newly engaged or married
minute gift ideas.
couple, a family with a newborn or for anyone
At Ashtree Garden Centre we can make you up
commemorating a loved one at this time of year.
hampers at whatever price you would like to
Trees are great indicators of the years passing and
spend. A hamper could make a great present for
are a beautiful symbol of life.
experienced or novice gardeners, bird feeding
From all of us at Ashtree Garden Centre and the
enthusiasts or flower arrangers. If you are unsure
Potting Shed Tearoom we would like to wish our
of what to buy, gift vouchers are available and are
customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New
always an appreciated present as they can be used
Year. We look forward to gardening with you again
at any time during the following year.
in the spring!
Other options include the gift of living plants.
Emer Campbell, FdSc Amenity Horticulture
Wishing all our customers and friends a very Happy Christmas and Successful New Year
Merry Christmas
The staff at
B LU E P O P P Y
DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS
would like to thank their patients, staff and businesses who have helped them over the past year and over their eight years in business.
Christmas Blessings
and Happy New Year to all B LU E P O P P Y DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS
11 M i l l C o u rt M ews , T h e D i a m o n d , D o n e ga l Tow n . Te l : 074 97 4 0 4 0 4 i n fo @ b l u e p o p py d e n t a l . c o m w w w. b l u e p o p py d e n t a l . c o m
AVS NEWS
Congratulations to Erika Price who received an entrance Scholarship Award from Trinity College Dublin for her outstanding Leaving results. Erika is studying Law and French.
Conor McGoldrick received the entrance scholarship Award for UCD based on his excellent Leaving Cert results. Conor is studying Science in UCD.
Leaving Cert Applied students from the Abbey Vocational School selling cards in Supervalu in aid of MS Donegal.
Transition year students from the Abbey Vocational School on a history trip to Derry. Also pictured are staff members Celine Markey, Kyle Clarke and Mary Crawford.
Cheque presentation to Alzheimers Society Andrea Moore, Ava Anderson, Bobbie Griffith, Leah Dinsmore, Leona Fisher and Melissa Mahon presenting a cheque for â‚Ź1,381 to Julie Mundy, Alzheimer Society Donegal, proceeds of a cake sale they held in Rossnowlagh recently.
S R A E Y 20
S S E N I S U IN B
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and looking forward to seeing you all in 2019 Kavanagh's Donegal Town
Good Food Karma
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year t s m ri as Ch d F a o Thank you for your ir custom o F
CHRISTMAS Wednesday 5th TIMES December OPENING
Thurs 20th & Fri 7-8.30pm 21st ..................... 8.30am-9pm Sat 22nd & SunSuperValu 23rd ....................... 8am-10pm Kavanagh's Donegal Town Mon 24th, Christmas Eve................... 7am-6pm Tues 25th Christmas Day ......................CLOSED Wed 26th St Stephen’s Day ..................CLOSED Thurs 27th......................................... 10am-7pm Fri 28th & Sat 29th ........................ 8.30am-9pm Sun 30th.............................................. 9am-8pm Mon 31st, New Year’s Eve ................. 8am-6pm Tues 1st Jan, New Year’s Day .......... 10am-6pm
Join us for an evening of great Christmas Food Ideas
Kavanagh’s SuperValu Donegal Town (074) 972 2977
Funding for Airport
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross has announced €3.7million in grant aid to regional airports in Donegal, Ireland West Airport (Knock) and Kerry. Donegal Airport is to receive over €650,000 in funding for the development of the airport. This funding follows on from the €326,700 funding that was sanctioned earlier this year for costs associated with safety and security.
‘Celebrity Home of the Year’ will have Donegal Connection ‘Celebrity Home of the Year’ is one of the programmes we are all looking forward to watching this holiday season. The show will give us a look around the homes of some well known Irish celebrities. Weather meteorologist Jean Byrne’s home will be featured along with the homes of singer Eleanor McEvoy, writer John Boyne and artist Robert Ballagh. The home in Bundoran of Ramona and Canice Nicholas will also be shown in the programme. Ramona is a director of the Cara chain of pharmacies and is also known for appearing on the TV shows Secret Millionaire and of course Dragon’s Den. You can see the show on Wednesday 2nd January at 9.35pm on RTE 1.
Job Opportunity
A vacancy exists for a permanent part-time cleaner (15hrs per week) in St. Francis' N.S., Barnesmore. If you are interested, please send a CV together with a letter of application and references to the Chairperson, B.O.M., St. Francis' N.S., Barnesmore, Donegal Town by 5:00p.m. on Friday the 21st of December 2018.
Chair Based Exercise Class OFFER 1 Feed 4‑6 people
New January Classes with Physio Éireann
OFFER 2 Feed 6‑8 people
Taking orders now for Christmas •All Gammon is low salt and home cured. •All beef from our abattoir and locally sourced. •Why not avail of our dry aged steak and roast?
Best value in town 074 97 22721
071 98 52260
Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas
Sheerin’s
Main Street, Mountcharles (074) 973 5433
Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
from Seamus, Ann Marie and all the staff. OPENING HOURS Christmas Eve - 7am - 7pm Christmas Day - Closed St. Stephen’s Day - Closed Thursday 27th - 9am - 9pm
Congratulations to Seimi Campbell, Donegal Town who graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Music Education from Trinity College, Dublin. Seimi is currently taking his Masters in Theatre Directing at Mountview College, London. Seimi is pictured with his parents Seog and Grainne and his brothers Johnny and Cathal who are very proud of him!
Friday 28th - 8am - 9pm Saturday 29th - 8am - 9pm Sunday 30th - 9am - 9pm Monday 31st - 7am - 7pm Tuesday 1st Jan. - 9am - 6pm
N ISSIO n OUR M elves o e ours
d prid plete ted an ty, com the dedica , quali fe suring We are sa a ice, en ing rv d vi se e ro p s. anc lt n su te re in g/ma ard of cleanin ighest stand ent h vestm nued in h conti g. g in u in ro a is th aff tr hieve th ment and st We ac ip in equ
Old Laghey Road, Donegal Town, Phone: 074 97 22052
Trades & Services 087 1749768 DESMOND KILPATRICK PROFESSIONAL CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
Wishing you a warm and wonderful Christmas from all at Donegal Plumbing & Heating OPEN Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm Closed for lunch 1 - 2pm OPEN SATURDAY 9am to 1pm.
FROSSES NEWS
DBS Darren McHugh
Call Justin 087 286 3078 OIL BOILER SERVICES
Drains Ltd.
G ASHIN
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h C a ll S io n s ? u e s tWe q y n achieve this through continued investment A
89o0m 2 2 2 3 a im MISSION 087 • OUR @gm t l.cas in equipment and staff training.
hris us Merryp• C pero & a •yreoas r to all new• ustomers our• c
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Any questions? Call Shane today on • SOFTWASHING
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087 681 3931
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with Colm Kelly
EMERGENCY
Any questions? Call Shane today on
087 3222890
The Frosses Golf Society Christmas outing was held in Donegal Golf Club, Murvagh on Sunday last. John Histon won the outing
macsdrains@gmail.com
with John Mohan (Lettermore) second and Cathal McNeely (Ballybrillaghan) third. The society had a very successful 2018 season having played sixteen events over the year and visiting many great golf courses. Tom Mohan (Lettermore), chairman of Tír Chonaill Gaels was home from London last week to visit his family and friends. There will be a Carol Service in Frosses Church on Sunday 23rd December at 6 pm, everyone is very welcome to attend. I would like to wish all our readers from Frosses and around the world a very happy Christmas and a great New Year.
Frosses Golf Society captain John Burke (Mullinboys) with John Burke (Killian) winner of the Vincent McCrea Memorial Player of the Year and John Histon who won the Matchplay for 2018.
DONEGAL BAY TIDE TIMES Thursday 20th December
High Tide 3.40am and 3.54pm
Friday 21st
High Tide 4.19am and 4.37pm
E & J Oil Services Ltd. BALLINTRA, CO. DONEGAL Email: Tel/Fax: 074-9734129 info@ejoils.com
• Home Heating Oil • Road Diesel
Saturday 22nd
High Tide 4.58am and 5.21pm
Sunday 23rd
High Tide 5.39am and 6.06pm
Repairs - Upgrades - Maintenance
Christmas Eve Monday 24th High Tide 6.23am and 6.53pm
Christmas Day Tuesday 25th High Tide 7.10am and 7.43pm
St. Stephen’s Day Wednesday 26th High Tide 8.01am and 8.36pm All times are approximate and should not be taken as a seafaring guide
All home heating oil customers who pay on delivery from Monday 26th November will be entered into a draw for 500 litres of Home Heating Oil Draw takes place on Friday 21st Dec
Wind Turbines start to arrive in Killybegs
Just arrived last Sunday morning in Killybegs from Poland was the MV Arctic Rock carrying 24 turbine blades for the Oweninny Wind Farm project in North Mayo. This is only about 20% of the entire infrastructure proposed for Phase 1 of this project for the ESB. This vessel is purpose built for the transport of this particular type of cargo as is clear from the photos. The bridge and accommodation are offset to one side allowing blades and towers to overhang
the stern. The deck also overhangs the hull on both sides by a meter allowing more cargo to be carried on deck. Discharge took place on Monday and Tuesday. While the blades for this project are manufactured in Poland the towers are coming from the Far East. The first consignment of these towers coming from Vietnam are presently in the Red Sea transiting the Suez Canal on Wednesday 19th December. The Chinese vessel is first
scheduled to call at a UK port before coming to Killybegs in early January 2019. The blades are just short of 60mts and several adjustments to the roads and signage have been made, the Tullyearl roundabout being one example. Patsy Kelly
Donegal Town
Christmas Thumbs up from Marie in her new car! Photos: Richard Cave
Seamus and Gabrielle Kelly enjoying the event.
Mary Mulligan and Mary McInaw.
Keith Stevenson and Zoe enjoying the Credit Union Car Draw. Mary Mulligan and Mary McInaw.
A large crowd attended the draw.
CAR €1,000 €1,000 €1,000 €1,000 €500 €500 €500 €500 €500 €500 €500 €500 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €200 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100 €100
Marie Feely Mary Brown Anthony Armstrong Eunan Curristan Paul Rimmer Frank Cunningham Kerry Harvey Matthew Mahon Angela Corrigan Aaron O’Shea Bernard Boyle Kelly McDyer Martin McMenamin Joseph McNulty Teresita Mullin O’Toole Maura Boyle Noelle Craig John Gallagher Mary Gorman Kathleen Giblin Rachel Giblin Christine Doherty John Hannigan Margaret Cook Dermot Brodbin Sophie Doherty Donna McCalliog Erin Feely Marlene Gillespie Paula McBrearty Anita Gallagher Robert Duncan Bernie Monaghan Delwar Hussain Nora Boyle Mary Diver Siobhan Gallagher Rasa Kinderiene Lottie Graham Kathleen Rose Edmund Gallagher Patricia Wilson John McIntyre Christopher McNulty Diane Gallagher Samantha Cosgrove O’Doherty Hazel O’Hara Sean Gillespie Diane Harvey Moulding Peter Nolan Francis Sweeney Senior Pat McDyre Betty Carrabin Mary McGrath Charles Moohan
n Credit Union
s Car Draw €100 Brendan McGowan €100 Paul McCauley €100 Pius McDwyer €100 Megan McHugh €100 Mamie Thomas €100 Daniel Gildea €100 Mary Teresa Kelly €100 Mary Bonner DOOR PRIZES €200 Marie Hughes €200 Ann McCauley €200 Patsy McGlinchey €200 Angela Gallagher €200 Richard Cave €100 David Graham €100 Gerard Glackin €100 Winner not in car draw €100 Jillian Furey €100 Seamus Kelly €100 Michael McNulty €100 Andrea McHugh €100 Maureen Sweeney €100 Sean McGroarty €100 Maura Caldwell €100 Fidelma Rooney €100 Angela Cunnea €100 Geraldine Thomas €100 Marie Maloney €100 Gillian Stevenson €100 Winner not in car draw €100 Caroline McGroarty €100 Peter Kane €100 Philomena Conaghan €100 Stephen Travers JUNIOR PRIZES €20 Evie Anderson €20 Erin McGroary €20 Patrick Cunnea €20 Joseph Slater €20 Lexi Nesbitt Bell €20 Matthew Taylor €20 Holly €20 Owen McShane €20 Aaron Kenny €20 Ava McGroary €20 Jenny Donovan €20 Daragh O’Donnell €20 Conor O’Donnell €20 Calum McGlanghey €20 Jessica Gallagher €20 Robert Harron €20 Ella Byrne €20 Kirsty Harron €20 Cameron Crawford €20 Blake McNulty
Right: Car winner Marie Feely with Marion Feely and Loretta and Cahir Flynn.
Kaley Cassidy and Sianna Faulkner have a great chat about the draw.
Maria Gorrell and Arlene O’Neill haven’t met up in ages.
Leo Kenny, Paddy Keeney and Andy Smith looking forward to the draw.
Chloe Love with mum Lisa, Ann Buchanan and Aoife McAndrew enjoy the refreshments laid on for the Car Draw.
Rita Rose, Margaret Johnston, Inger and Margaret Harley waiting patiently for the draw to start.
MEEHAN’S
ELEGANT ROOMS
CARPET CENTRE
WOODEN FLOORS
BED LINEN
FLOORING
BEDS Thanks for your custom throughout 2018
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
H
Meehan’s Carpet Centre & Elegant Rooms, Mountcharles By-Pass, Mountcharles, Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9735550 Fax: 074-9735580 Mob: 087-2633520 E: meehanscarpets@yahoo.co.uk
Donegal Town Hardware Homevalue
Donegal Town Business Park, Drumrooske, Donegal Town Ph: (074) 972 3636 Email: sales@donegalhardware.ie www.donegalhardware.ie Facebook/DonegalTownHardware
Christmas Arrangements
Saturday 22nd December 8am – 4.30pm OPEN Christmas Eve Monday 24th December CLOSED Christmas Day Tuesday 25th December CLOSED Boxing Day Wednesday 26th December CLOSED Thursday 27th December CLOSED Friday 28th December CLOSED Saturday 29th December 8am – 4.30pm OPEN Monday 31st December CLOSED New Year’s Day, Tuesday 1st January CLOSED NORMAL TRADING RESUMES WEDNESDAY 2nd JANUARY 2019
In lieu of Christmas Gifts we have decided to give a substantial donation on your behalf to the St Vincent de Paul Society and Living Links who do tremendous work particularly at this time of year.
On behalf of the team of Donegal Town Hardware, we would like to sincerely thank you for your valued custom and wish you and your families a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year! FREE LOCAL DELIVERY, FREE PARKING, FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE
A Candle in the Window – an Irish Christmas Tradition
Lighting a candle in the window is a Christmas Eve memory many cherish from their childhood. We were always told that we were lighting
the way for Mary and Joseph on their way to find the stable in Bethlehem. The history of this tradition is somewhat different however. These candles burning in the windows were not simply a beacon of hope for the Holy Family. They were also a sign of welcome for anyone, friend or stranger, who might be passing by on Christmas Eve. This tradition was most widely practiced in the south of Ireland, especially in Munster. The candle was traditionally lit by the youngest girl in the house. The origins of lighting a candle in the window trace back to the 17th Century at the time of the Penal Laws in Ireland when
Holly, Ivy and Christmas Plants Holly, ivy and other greenery such as mistletoe were originally used in pre‑Christian times to help celebrate the Winter Solstice Festival and ward off evil spirits and to celebrate new growth. When Christianity came into Western Europe, some people wanted to keep the greenery and to give it Christian meanings.
Laurel Laurel has been worn as a wreath on the head to symbolise success and victory for thousands of years. It symbolises the victory of God over the Devil. Roman Emperors also wore laurel wreaths. They were also given to the winners of events in the original Olympic Games in Greece.
Christmas Wreaths Hanging a circular wreath of evergreens during mid winter seems to go back a very long way. The word 'wreath' comes from the Old English word 'writhen' which means to writhe or twist.
Christmas Ivy Ivy has to cling to something to support itself as it grows. This reminds us that we need to cling to God for support in our lives.
Catholic churches were outlawed. Priests secretly said mass at secluded venues known as Mass Rocks. Priests also often visited homes in secrecy to bless a family and to say Mass. By lighting a candle in the window they signalled to any passing priest that this was a Catholic home. The doors were unlocked allowing a priest to enter silently to join the family in prayer for Christmas. And so, whether you light a candle in the window this Christmas Eve, or simply light up your Christmas tree, you can pause and reflect upon the sacredness of this holiday.
Siro Broadband in Donegal Town More good news for Donegal Town and surrounding areas. I have been working with my technical team lobbying various companies over the past number of years to get proper high speed fibre broadband for Donegal Town and surrounding areas, and at last a company named ‘Siro’ have arrived.
Christmas Holly The prickly leaves represent the crown of thorns that Jesus wore when he was crucified. The berries are the drops of blood that were shed by Jesus because of the thorns. In Scandinavia it is known as the Christ Thorn. In pagan times, holly was thought to be a male plant and ivy a female plant. It was considered unlucky to bring either holly or ivy into a house before Christmas Eve.
Catholicism was suppressed.
When should you take the greenery down? It is traditional to take down the decorations after Twelfth Night (5th January) on Epiphany (January 6th). But during the middle ages, greenery (including mistletoe) was often left hanging up until Candlemas in early February.
Siro is a partnership between ESB and Vodafone and will compete with ‘Eir’. Donegal Town was surveyed during the summer regarding the provision of a direct optic fibre to every house in Donegal Town that has an electricity supply. Now that the survey is complete work has commenced on providing a fibre switching cabinet which is currently being erected close to the fire station in Drumlonagher to serve the Donegal Town area. When this work is completed Siro expects to give customers a choice of speeds up to 1000Mbps. This fast speed will be a huge boost to existing business around Donegal Town and also will attract more business to set up in town. It will also be of huge benefit to anybody working from home as well as private homes using internet for their own personal use. I will keep you all updated on further developments. Cllr. Tom Conaghan.
The Book Nook with Elaine Lolli
www.theezbooknook.blogspot.com
“The Noel Stranger” by Richard Paul Evans Who knew that choosing the perfect Christmas tree could lead to love and romance? Maggie is a prisoner in her own home after news broke that her devoted husband of nine years is actually a bigamist. Brokenhearted and alone, Maggie heeds her best friend’s advice and heads to a lot filled with scented pines, hoping a tree will boost her sagging spirits. It’s there she meets the handsome owner who sweeps her off her feet with his charm and extraordinary kindness.
STUDIO
HAIR SALON
5
Irene and staff would like to thank their customers for their custom over the year and wish them all a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. Opening Hours: Monday-Wednesday - 9am-6pm, Thursday & Friday - 9am-8pm Saturday - 9am-5.30pm OPEN MONDAYS - Late appointments
074 97 25833 MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN
HENRY of LONDON Special Edition Watch ‘Blue Moon’ LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
€135
AVAILABLE FROM
Britton Jewellers
MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: 074 9721131 Email: brittonjeweller@gmail.com
In a matter of days, they leave for a whirlwind getaway to the dazzling beaches of Mexico. But when they return, Maggie learns her new boyfriend may have a sordid, scheming past that he’s been hiding all along. Could she really be so blind again when it comes to matters of the heart? A warm, whimsical holiday romance that just may have you believing in the magic of the season. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year. Looking forward to reviewing the many new releases coming our way in 2019.
Mountcharles Past and Present Book Launch The launch of “Mountcharles Past and Present” Volume 2 was held in the Shamrock Bar recently. The book was launched by Helen Meehan, local historian and president of the Mountcharles Heritage and Walking Group who published the book. It is a collection of stories and poems from around the area. Many thanks go out to the contributors, all those who sponsored the prizes for the raffle, the entertainers on the night, Donegal Town Credit Union and a special word of thanks to Kathleen Ayres and Rita Rose without whom this book would never have been published. You can pick up a copy for €10 in Four Masters Bookshop, Sheerin’s Londis or the Post Office in Mountcharles or from any member of the group. There are a limited number of copies of Volume 1 still on sale.
Helen Meehan displays the new book. Photos: Anne Leonard
Patsy McInaw, Rose Redican and Mary Harvey
Andrea Naughton, Deirdre Murray and Louise Price.
Donal Kelly with Jason and Anne Harley
Sally Neary and Anne Marie Meehan.
Anne and Rose McBride
Bridget Dalton, Mary Killilea and Mary Talbot
Kathleen Ayres and Rita Rose
Les Dalton and Tony Killilea
The Scor na nÓg group
Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party
Gillian Stevenson, Peggy Meehan and Brian Harvey
Celine Hegarty, Kathleen McGroarty, Mamie McMullin, Sheila Kane
Maureen Gorman, Jim Elvin and Marie O’Connor
Margaret McMenamin, Isobel Henderson and Kathleen Meehan
Dessie, Joan and Noreen Gallagher
Fr. Francis McLoone and Fr. Willie Peoples
John Durcan and Philomena Gallagher
Kathleen and George Harron
Maureen McGettigan, Lorna Scott and Mary Lorinyenko
Cill Aoibhinn House Residents and staff
Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party
Mia Campbell and Patricia Gallagher
Brendan and Veronica Reck
Mena McGrath, Margaret McBarron, Michael Monaghan and Pat Dowd
Brede O’Neill, Anne Campbell and Colm Kelly Moira Gallagher, Margaret McGroary, May Doherty and Veronica Reck
Cill Aoibhinn House residents and staff Fr. Francis Ferry and Fr. Danny McBrearty
Cill Aoibhinn House residents and staff
PHOTOS: MARGARET GALLAGHER
Kathleen and John Forkin with Maura Reynolds and William Martin
Rev Harding with Kathleen Ramsey and Maura Caldwell
New Sunday Lunch at Lough Eske Castle Join us in Cedars Restaurant every Sunday and enjoy our NEW three-course Sunday Lunch menu served from 1pm - 3pm. €35 per adult | €15 per child (13-17 years) | Children 12 and under complimentary
MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN
Tel: 074 9722656
Reservations required
www.skintherapy.me
CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS
For bookings contact reservations on +353(0)749725100
EXTRA OPENING on Sunday Dec 23rd from 1pm to 5pm. Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town, County Donegal, F94 HX59 T: +353 (0)074 9725100 F: +353 (0)74 97 23762 Reservations email: reservations.lougheske@solishotels.com www.lougheskecastlehotel.com
Busy Busy Busy
Regular opening each day from 9.30 to 5.30. Late appointments available on request. Sincere thanks to all our loyal clients for their support over the past year. Have a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year. We look forward to caring for all your beauty and wellness needs next year!! Best Wishes Mella, Emmajane and Tamara.
Shiatsu with Jack Voss
At this time of year, for many of us there is an ever growing list of things to do in addition to our regular day to day activities. Our environment affects our physical and mental health and this extra load can have a significant effect on our health.
It balances the energy in our bodies, helps
If we are feeling overwhelmed by this extra work, our bodies may become out of balance, our immune system lowers and we become vulnerable to attack from viruses, infections and illnesses. If we already suffer from a chronic illness, this extra work can cause a flare up.
schedule to treat yourself to a Shiatsu
Shiatsu is an excellent way of promoting well being.
Gift vouchers are also available through
to strengthen the immune system, creates more vitality and strengthens our bodies to be able to ward off infections. Why not take the time out of your busy treatment to rebalance your body and to
e c a r r e T &
St. John Bosco Centre
O G N BI
Thursday 20th December Starts 9pm Books €10
This week’s jackpot:
€1,000 on 45 numbers
A BIG thank you to all who attended our Bingo all year and we wish you a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year
have more energy to deal with these extra demands.
Contact Jack on 086 2120329 or through Facebook for an appointment. Jack or from Simple Simons, Donegal Town.
h c n u L y a d Sun
OPEN Every Sunday of the Year
@ Harvey’s Point®
• • • •
5 Course Sunday Lunch Carvery* All-You-Can-Eat Buffet Panoramic view over Lough Eske Ample Free Parking TO BOOK A TABLE CALL 074-9722208 Sunday Carvery Lunch: €30 Adult / €15 Child
Harvey’s Point - Lough Eske - Donegal Tel: 074-9722208 - harveyspoint.com *All Ireland Winner of the Great Carvery Sunday Lunch Competition
Est. 1989
AVS selected for PE as Leaving Cert subject Launch of Leaving Cert Physical Education by Minister Mr Joe McHugh The Minister for Education Joe McHugh launched the LCPE Programme in the Abbey Vocational School this week. This event was attended by county councillors, club officials, LYIT president Paul Hannigan, Director of Schools Dr Martin Gormley and CE Anne McHugh as well as the current AVS Physical Education class. The school is delighted to be rolling out this new subject area as part of their Leaving Cert subject options. Abbey Vocational School was among the first tranche of 80 schools around the country selected to provide both P.E. as a Leaving Certificate subject and the new Senior Cycle Physical Education Framework, announced last February. A total of 369 schools applied to participate in the Phase 1 roll-out, showing an outstanding demand across the country for Physical Education at Senior Cycle. There is great enthusiasm among students at Abbey Vocational School for P.E. at Leaving Certificate. The students are part of an historic group becoming the first to sit a Leaving Certificate P.E. exam in 2020 and walk away with a grade and an experience that will stand to them for the rest of their lives. The aim of the course is to give young people something that will give them a
Patrick Brady puts Minister Joe McHugh through his paces in the AVS gym watched by the PE Leaving Cert class. Also on a rowing machine is PE teacher Ivan O’Mahony. Photos: Margaret Gallagher life-long appreciation of sport, fitness and physical activity. GAELSCOIL Later in the day the Minister visited Gaelscoil na gCeithre Máistrí where he met with pupils, teachers and parents and confirmed the Department’s commitment to the provision of a new school building to
replace the existing prefabs at the Gaelscoil. A question and answer session was conducted as Gaeilge and a plea was made by the pupils in the form of a poem. The Minister confirmed that the money for the project has been allocated and the architects are currently working on the plans which should go to tender in 2019.
L-R: Cllr. Michael Naughton, Cllr. Tom Conaghan, President of LYIT Paul Hannigan, Dr Martin Gormley, Director of Schools, Donegal Town Mayor Pauric Kennedy, AVS Principal Geraldine Diver, Minister for Education Joe McHugh, Anne McHugh AMME, Geoffrey Browne, Chairperson of AVS Board of Management, AVS Deputy Principal Ronan Doherty, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy and Cllr. Noel Jordan.
Mummers
From the 1995 book ‘Donegal, Past and Present’ by Joe McGarrigle. With thanks to his daughter Geraldine. The Mummers who used to call uninvited into our homes around the Christmas period and perform their short entertaining but nonsensical playlet were as much part of the seasonal spirit as the Christmas tree, the holly decoration, or even the Christmas dinner itself. At the time they were taken for granted, as is so much in this life, but now that they have virtually disappeared we look back on them and their rhymes with nostalgia. For weeks before Christmas painstaking effort went into making the outlandish costumes they always wore. These served a dual purpose, they added a touch of the bizarre to their presentation as well as hiding the identity of the Mummer. The suit worn by Jack Straw was always a work of art and plaited by craftsmen who felt compelled to outdo their rivals from the neighbouring Parish. The number of characters introduced into their performance varied from group to group depending on how far they were prepared to move away from the traditional roles like Jack Straw, Prince George, The Turk, Wee Devil Doubt and Doctor Brown. These had been part of the Mummer’s performance from time immemorial. I can remember these roles being played over different periods by Tommy O’Donnell, Jim Harvey, Jamie Gillen and James Murphy to name a few. In certain areas the money collected by the Mummers during their two‑week‑long round of the houses were pooled and used later for a post Christmas ‘Mummer’s Night’ to which everyone in the townland was invited where dancing, supper and drink were supplied free of charge. In other places the money was shared out between the Mummers for their own use around Christmas. It must be remembered there was no social security then. It is believed that the parts played were really excerpts from early historical dramas cut down to suit the strolling players who are thought to have been the forerunners of the Mummers. The rhymes too suffered in the transition and many groups made up their own versions but generally speaking, they all had the same story line running through them. To give some idea of the type of performance Mummers presented the following is a typical example:
Enter the Gallant Boy: Room, room my gallant boys and give me room to rhyme, to rhyme. I’ll show you some activity around the Christmastime The active youth, the active aged Our act was never acted on the stage And if you don’t believe what I say Enter the Captain an’ he’ll clear the way. The Captain: Here comes I the captain, the captain of this noble crew Many great deeds will I relate to you My ship has ploughed the seven seas And now she’s home to a quiet bay And if you don’t believe these words I say Enter Oliver Cromwell and he’ll clear the way. Oliver Cromwell: Here comes I, Oliver Cromwell, with my long copper nose I have conquered many nations, as you may suppose I made the French to tremble, and the Spanish for to quake And I beat the jolly Dutchman and made his heart ache And if you don’t believe these words I say Enter in Jack Straw and he’ll clear the way.
Jack Straw: Here comes I, Jack Straw, such a man you never saw Through a rock, through a reel, through an old spinning wheel Through a bag of pepper, through an old mill hopper. My mother was straw, my father was straw, so why the hell wouldn’t I be straw. Others to enter were Prince George, Wee Devil Doubt, The Turk and Beelzebub in turn. The Prince and the Turk exchange cross words and they then have a sword fight. This was always a highlight of the performance. The Prince is killed and Doctor Brown is called in: Here comes Doctor Brown, the best wee doctor in the town. Captain: What can you cure? Doctor: I can cure the plague within, the plague without, the ague, the palsy or the gout. Captain: What’s your medicine doctor? Doctor: The rue, the sue the knuckles of the bumbee, the heart’s blood of a smoothing iron all boiled up together and mixed with a black buck-cat’s feather. I have a wee bottle here in my inside outer upper waistcoat pocket called hokerous, pokerous, elegant pain. Rise up dead man and live again. The Captain rises and the play ends with a round of music from the group and then comes Wee Devil Doubt. Wee Devil Doubt: Money I want and money I crave, if you don’t give me money I’ll send you all to your grave. I take only silver, no brass, and bad pennies won’t pass and a very Happy Christmas to one and all in this house.
CASSIDY’S COAL NEW ROW
074 97 21658 James: 087 9857551 Benny: 087 6331772 Thursday 20th, Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd, Open 10am - 6pm. Christmas Eve - 10am - 2pm Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day - Closed. Thursday 27th - 10am - 6pm Normal hours from then on.
WISHING ALL MY CUSTOMERS A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR.
Car, Van, Tractor & Truck Parts
Agri & Industrial Needs FANAGHAN, INVER Tel: (074) 9736974 & 083 1888878 Email: info@mpaspares.com
www.mpaspares.com Facebook: mpaspares
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am -6pm; Sat 8.30am – 4pm
PEARSON GROUNDWORKS DONEGAL TOWN Contact Adrian: 087 3680128 Complete your exterior with our prompt and professional service
• Tarmac
• Concrete
• Kerbing
• Paving
• Fencing
• Gravel drives
A Letter to my Grandchildren by Eamonn McFadden
Some time ago my grandchildren asked me. “Grandad, what was it like when you were a little boy?” “Well just turn off the television and your mobile phones, come and sit down beside me and I will tell you...”
Dear Grandchildren,
My mother told me it was a glorious hot May day in 1936 when I was born. Killaghtee, like the entire countryside in those days, had none of the modern amenities that we have today. My first memory was breaking my leg when I was three years old (Oct to 1939). My dad, who was a Garda in nearby Dunkineely, got Bill Henry spend would I where drive me to the Hospital in Donegal Town (long gone) the next six weeks. Then, having recovered, I had to learn to walk again. no No one in those days had any electric power. We had no lights and d gathere we which around fire turf by d central heating. Heating was provide to go to enough warm being before scary, some stories, to at night, listened cally bed. Lighting was provided by a Tilly lamp fuelled by oil and strategi . reading and ork placed on the kitchen table, where I did my homew ng I well remember playing in the surrounding fields safe and sound, imagini bends ous” “danger the te negotia to I was a bus driver and using an old wheel the among the rushes. Life was so simple then. No distractions, peace and Railway l Donega The air. the filled cuckoo the and ke corncra sound of the train meandered its merry way nearby. The washing and ironing, unlike today, was problematic, but my mother made little of the task by damming up the stream which flowed nearby ng (beaver like) and barefooted we all applied ourselves to the task of trampli hang would mother Then fresh. and clean test, the the bedding until it passed it over branches until dry and aired. The iron would be on the range keeping hot and she would do the ironing... simple! We did not have the luxury of running water in those days. One of my daily be tasks was to fetch two buckets of water from the well. That water would etc. g drinkin , cooking s, used for everyday things; ablution s My father had a small plot of land on which he grew potatoes, cabbage l; plentifu was Fish basics. the with us provide to and turnips. He grew enough mackerel, herring and pollack - and free to all. He also had a piece of bogland which provided us with the fuel for the fire and heat. Hard work! Occasionally, get my mother would go to Donegal for a special day to shop. I would at train the board would We her. any accomp to excited when it was my turn Then master. station the was arty McGro Paddy where station, Dunkineely onwards through Mountcharles where Sean Monaghan was Station Master the and so to Donegal, first stop to Chambers shop, then W. Collins for groceries. At four years old I went to Dunkineely National School where Mr we Cunningham and Mrs McMenaman were the teachers. Not like today, no g, teachin of method tried well and simple a chalk, and ard had a blackbo computers in those days. That was the way it was then, simple, respectful and all the young children of my time benefited from that way of life. I hope, my dear grandchildren, that you have learned a little of how it was and then. Now you can turn on your playstation, television, mobile phone … thought a sometime along the way spare
E G N A H
C
Thanks for listening, Grandad.
Santa on a practice run for Christmas Eve night. Spotted recently over Donegal by Stewart Diamond - luckily Stewart didn’t have his drone or the reindeer might have got a fright!
Timony’s
Donegal Town 97 23244
Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and a Bright and Prosperous New Year. Normal opening hours 6am - 12 midnight (every day) except: Christmas Day CLOSED, Boxing Day 8am-12 midnight New Year’s Day 8am-12 midnight
Christmas wishes from all at the … d&Cl * BŅƋåĬƉ¼Ɖa±ųĜĹåƉ ޱ
Tel: +353 (0)71 985 1777
Email: info@sandhouse.ie
www.sandhouse.ie
ROSSNOWLAGH, CO. DONEGAL
Making Fitness Child’s Play with rinka.ie
Helping Children to Unwind in the build-up to Christmas… tree with your child (it would be lovely to do this just before bed when they are dressed in their cosy jammies). Execution: Gently invite your child to place their hands on their tummy and take in deep breaths. If you tree is a real one, invite them to smell the tree too and then reach up to touch it. Engaging as many senses as possible can help bring children into the present. Then watch the lights together. See how they sparkle and twinkle. Then focus on one colour at a time. Red makes us feel It is like clockwork every year - when the loved so breathe in all the red they can calendar hits December 1st, silly season see and feel all the love that is around strikes our children! If the energy and them at Christmas. Next look at all the excitement in classes is anything to go blue, which makes us feel calm. Invite by, I can only imagine what your homes your children to breathe in all the blue are like. and feel their bodies relaxing. Green The next few weeks are incredibly makes us feel happy so smile at all the exciting for children but for some the green you can see. You can add in as emotions can be a little overwhelming. many colours and feelings as you wish. As we all know, a healthy body needs a healthy mind so this week I am going to Carry this out as often as possible and share with you a fun, festive meditation enjoy a few minutes of festive relaxation that we have been using in classes with together as a family this Christmas. great success. For more info on fun active classes for Set the scene: Turn off the lights in the kids visit www.rinka.ie sitting room and turn on some relaxing Christmassy music. Leave the Christmas Sarah Gillespie Tree lights on and lie down under the www.rinka.ie 087 750 9230
BLUESTACK CENTRE & HOSTEL, DRIMARONE
OPEN LATE EVENINGS
Specialising in Colour, Cutting and Upstyles ★ Now doing ★
Bonded Hair Extensions Trained by Ceira Lambert
Hand Massage by Aine
Every Wednesday, by appointment
Tangles Hairdressing, Frosses
Phone 074 97 36555
Bowls every Tuesday night at 8pm. Everyone welcome. Bingo every Wednesday night at 8.30pm. Bingo as normal on St. Stephen’s Night December 26th. Check our Facebook page for updates on the prizes - www.facebook. com/bluestackcentre.drimarone Car Wash & Valeting now available every Friday at the Bluestack Centre & Hostel. To book your car please contact 074 9735564 We would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere Thank You to everyone for your support during 2018 and we look forward to your continued support in 2019. We wish you a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year from all the Management and Staff of the Bluestack Centre Hostel.
EUROSAVER
DISCOUNT STORE UNIT 1, QUAY STREET, DONEGAL TOWN
TEL: 074 9725728
MOB: 086 812 3760
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Christmas opening times
Wed 19th - 9am-7pm Thurs 20th - 9am-8pm Fri 21st - 9am-8pm Sat 22nd 9am-7pm Sun 23rd - 10am-6pm Mon 24th - 9am-6pm CLOSED Tuesday 25th & Wednesday 26th SALE BEGINS Thursday 27th - 11am-6pm Fri 28th - 9am-6pm Sat 29th - 9am-7pm Sun 30th - 10am-6pm Mon 31st - 9am-6pm CLOSED Tues 1st Jan
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Abbey
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Hotels THE DIAMOND, DONEGAL TOWN
WHAT’S ON…
DONEGAL TOWN The next HOUSE OF STORIES will be on Wednesday 19th December in the Coach House Bar, Upper Main Street from 8pm - 11pm. All welcome. There will be a CHRISTMAS CONCERT in aid of Cancer Care West and Crumlin Hospital in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday 20th December at 7.30pm. Hosted by Zara Montgomery Music. RETURNING LIGHT - a night of music in support of Donegal Mental Health will be on December 22nd at 7pm in St Patrick’s Centre, Donegal Town.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers from the management and staff of the Abbey and Central Hotels
DRIMARONE & BLUESTACK CENTRE BINGO every Wednesday night @ 8.30pm. Check our Facebook page for updates on the prizes - www.facebook.com/bluestackcentre. drimarone CAR WASH & VALETING now available every Friday at the Bluestack Centre & Hostel. To book your car please contact 074 9735564. LAGHEY / BALLINTRA The Community Centre Committee are holding a ‘BIG CHRISTMAS BINGO’ on Sunday 23rd December at 3pm. PETTIGO The Borderline Players will present the PANTOMIME ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ in The Termon Complex on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th January. The Annual New Year DINNER AND DANCE will be held in The Termon Complex on Wednesday 9th January at 6pm. A donation of €10 per person towards funding the event is required. Book by Thursday 2nd January to 071 98 61551, 048 68631332, or 071 98 61671. Pettigo GAA are holding their ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER DANCE in the Termon Centre, on the 19th January 2019 at 7pm. Music by the Vince & Ryan Turner Band. Tickets €30. BREESY CENTRE
DONEGAL TOWN COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE Sunday 23rd December at 7:30pm in Donegal Parish Church. With Donegal Abbey Singers, Tir Chonaill Youth Choir, and choirs from local churches. Collection for Donegal Branch of Alzheimers Society. Everyone welcome! The Abbey Vocational Classes of 1977 - 1982 are holding a REUNION in the Central Hotel on Friday 28th December at 8.30pm. Admission €12, fun, food and music on the night. Four Masters GAA Club are holding a CASINO NIGHT in Dom’s Pier 1 on Saturday 29th December at 8.30pm. Admission €20. BARNESMORE FUNDRAISING QUIZ for the Barnesmore Community Centre will be held in Biddy’s O’Barnes on Friday, December 28th at 9pm. Everyone welcome and your support would be gratefully appreciated.
INVER ST. NAUL’S GAA CLUB are holding their Dinner Dance on Friday 28th December in the Mill Park Hotel, Donegal Town at 7.30pm. Music by DJ Kevin Furey. Tickets €30.
AFTERNOON TEA AND SOCIAL DANCING in the Breesy Centre, Cashelard on Sunday 30th December from 3pm - 6pm with music by Eamon Brogan. Admission €8. This is a fundraiser for Donegal Hospice and Sligo Oncology Unit. ARDARA The CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DRAW will take place on Friday 21st December. The 1st prize is flights for two to New York and €500 spending money. Dancing is from 11pm, music by ‘Hard to Beat’. MOUNTCHARLES The annual Mountcharles GOAL MILE will take place on Christmas Day, pier to pier, from 12 noon. Walk or run from pier to pier, to support Goal’s international relief efforts. No registration necessary. Just come along on the day. This event is suitable for all the family. Donations to Goal will be accepted on the day.
Inver Rowing Club are holding a TABLE QUIZ in the Rising Tide Bar, Inver on Saturday 29th December starting at 9.30pm. Everyone welcome. KILLYBEGS The ANNUAL BOXING DAY SWIM will be at Fintra Beach on 26th December. If you want to take part, please find sponsorship cards in the Tara Hotel, Sweet News, The Bay View Hotel and Curran’s Londis. Contact John Cunningham, Fionnuala Cunningham, Charlie Diver or Mickey Campbell. CHARITY TABLE QUIZ in Tara Hotel on Thursday 27th December at 10pm in aid of Children’s Hospital, Crumlin. Please support. KILLYBEGS BRIDGE RESULTS 11th December: 1st. Conal Gallagher / Jimmy McGroary; 2nd. Goretti Cunningham / Brid McClean; 3rd. Paddy and Alice Carr. _____________ Donegal ETB is now offering PRACTICAL COMPUTER SKILLS WITH IC3 DIGITAL LITERACY CERTIFICATION The IC3 Digital Literacy certification is a credential that is designed to remain relevant in an ever evolving world of technology. With a focus on the most critical elements that drive technology today, IC3 Global Standard 5 (GS5) delivers a comprehensive solution for learning how to succeed in any environment that requires the use of computers, devices or the Internet. Best of all, because IC3 GS5 includes concepts and skills that apply to almost any school or career pathway, it’s the ideal solution for any student or jobseeker looking to enhance or validate their digital skills. Course is due to run from 11/01/19 until the 20/12/19 on Fridays from 10:00 to 14:00 in Ard Scoil na gCeithre Máistir, Tir Chonaill St., Donegal Town. Limited places only. Contact Dawn Sweeney Tel: 074 9725520. Email: dawnsweeney@donegaletb.ie
The Eye on Donegal is printed and published by Cavern Design Ltd., Bridge Street, Donegal Town www.eyeondonegal.com 074 9722677 look@eyeondonegal.com © 1993-2018
Christmas greetings
PAURIC KENNEDY Donegal Town Mayor
Happy Christmas to everyone at home and abroad. Hope to see you all before May!
Cllr. Michael Naughton
I would like to wish all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year. Continually working in your local community
Mobile: 087 2606 931 email: michaelnaughton@donegalcoco.ie
Wishing all my family and friends a very peaceful, happy and healthy Christmas. May the year ahead be a good one. This year I will not be sending Christmas cards, instead I will make a donation to my charity of choice.
Beannachtaí na Nollag agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh
Cllr. Tom Conaghan Mobile: 086 730 7252 tomconaghan@donegalcoco.ie
Cllr. Niamh Kennedy
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PEACEFUL NEW YEAR TO ALL MY CONSTITUENTS Croaghlin, Drumbarity, Killybegs Tel: 087 2062336 niamhkennedy@donegalcoco.ie
Pat the Cope Gallagher TD LEAS-CHEANN COMHAIRLE
Beannachtaí na Féile Dungloe: 074 95 21276 / 95 21133 Dublin: 01 700 2191 www.patthecope.com patthecope.gallagher@oir.ie Dungloe, Co Donegal
Thomas Pringle TD
Wishing all my constituents a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year Constituency Office Connolly House, Bridge Street, Killybegs Phone: 074-97-41880 Fax: 01-6184118 Constituency Office Ballybofey & Dungloe Phone: 087 216 8719 Dáil Eireann Phone: 01 618 3038 Fax: 01 618 4118
CLLR. JOHN CAMPBELL Wishing all the people of South West Donegal a Merry Christmas and Health and Happiness for 2019 Beirigí bua agus beannacht Cllr. John Campbell Office Main Street, Mountcharles Co. Donegal Mobile: 087 657 4885 Email: john@johncampbell.ie
I would like to wish all my constituents a Merry Christmas and a very Prosperous New Year.
Cllr. Noel Jordan
Tel: 086 2051395 noeljordan@donegalcoco.ie
In Memoriam ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
GALLAGHER JOSEPHINE
Donegal Road, Laghey The family of the late Josephine Gallagher, Donegal Road, Laghey, Co. Donegal, wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our sad loss. We offer a heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited our home, attended the wake, Mass and burial and those who provided support at this difficult time. To those who sent floral tributes, mass cards and made charitable donations, we are truly grateful. A special word of thanks to the staff of Donegal Hospital and Sligo University Hospital and Josie’s Home Help Care providers, for their kindness and respect, shown at all times. To all those who participated in the funeral Mass, especially Fr. O’Donnell and musicians, thank you for a beautiful ceremony and to Jackie Carron Funeral Directors, for his professional and sensitive handling of the arrangements. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered, for your intentions.
8th Anniversary
MOOHAN JIMMY
16th January 2011 Drimbarron, Frosses In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather. We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. So rest in peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done we pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won. Always remembered and never forgotten by your wife Breid, son, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. 8th Anniversary Mass at 7.00pm on Saturday 29th December, in St Mary’s Church, Frosses.
CAROL SERVICE In St Mary’s Church, Frosses on Sunday 23rd December at 6pm.
PLEASE CHECK THE BACK PAGE FOR CHRISTMAS SERVICES Regular Church Times
St Patrick’s, Donegal Town Saturday 6pm; Sunday 9am and 11.30am St. Agatha’s, Clar Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 10.30am St. Mary’s Killymard Saturday 7pm; Sunday 11am Franciscan Friary Rossnowlagh Saturday 7.30pm; Sunday 11am. Sacred Heart Church, Mountcharles Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 11am St Mary’s Church, Frosses Saturday: 7pm; Sunday 10am Holy Redeemer Church, Drimarone Sunday 9.30am St. Naul’s Church, Ardaghey Saturday 6pm; Sunday 11.30am St Joseph & St Conal Church, Bruckless Saturday 6.30pm; Sunday 11am St. Mary’s Church, Killybegs Sundays 9am and 11am
St. Bridget’s Church, Ballintra Saturday 6.30pm; Sundays 11am Presbyterian Church, Donegal Town Sunday 11.30am (Tea / Coffee from 11am) Methodist Church Ballintra: 10.30am Donegal: 12 noon Inver: 3pm Dunkineely: 10.30am (Carol Service) Ardara: 12 noon Church of Ireland Lough Eske: 9.30am Laghey: 10.45am Donegal Town: 12 noon Killybegs: 9.15am Inver: 10.45am Mountcharles: 12 noon Donegal Living Hope Church, Old Laghey Road, Donegal Town 7.30pm Wednesday (Bible Study) 11.30am Sunday
Apologies if we have omitted any church times. If you would like to see details of other church services in the Eye on Donegal wplease phone 074 9722677 or email: look@eyeondonegal.com
2nd Anniversary
LEAHY JIMMY
Glencoagh, Mountcharles In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, who died on December 29th 2016. Two tired eyes are sleeping, Two willing hands are still, The one who worked so hard for us, Is resting at God’s will. Deep in our hearts, Your memory is kept, No need for words, We will never forget. Loved always and sadly missed by your wife Marion, sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Mountcharles at 6.30pm on Saturday 29th December. 30th Anniversary Remembrance for
GRANNY CASSIE BOYLE
Main Street, Ardara who died on 24th December 1988 44th Anniversary
GRANDA ROBERT TOLAND
Racoo, Ballintra who died on Christmas Day 1974 37th Anniversary
GRANNY MARGARET TOLAND who died on the 9th January 1982 May those who remember them think and pray for them today. The Toland Family, Racoo, Ballintra
Recent Deaths
HAMMY KYLES, St. Cummins Hill, Killybegs. AGNES (NESSA) HARVEY, (nee Gormley ), Donegal Town. ANNIE (NAN) CASSIDY (NEE O’DONNELL), Fanaghan, Inver, formerly of Tievedooley, Inver. AMANDA MCGROARY, St Mary’s Park, Donegal Town. TERESA SWEENEY, Tir Chonaill Street, Donegal Town. Ar dheis Dé go raibh siad.
In Memoriam 3rd Anniversary
25th Anniversary
1st Anniversary
JOE
TONY
KELLY
McGARRIGLE
Drumrooske Estate, Donegal Town
Donegal Town
In loving memory of a dear husband, brother, brother-in-law and uncle who died on the 20th December 2015
In memory of our dear father Joe who died on 28th December 1993. R.I.P.
God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be so He put His arms around you and whispered “Come to me”.
Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace, Amen.
With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly We could not make you stay.
Also remembering his wife Anna and son Ciaran.
PATRICK (PADDY)
A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving wife Kay and the Kiernan family; sisters Ann and Geraldine; brothers Liam, Sean and Martin; nieces, nephews and extended family. Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday 22nd December at 11am in St. Mary’s Church, Killymard, Donegal Town. 6th Anniversary
O’DONNELL
Will those who think of them today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Always remembered by your loving family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Donegal Town at 10am on Saturday January 5th 2019. Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it in Your own broken heart, where our Father sees it, then in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. S.S.
6th Anniversary
GALLAGHER
PEGGY & WILLIE JOHN
SEAN
Rathneeny, Donegal Town St. Joseph’s Ave., Donegal Town Fondly remembered and sadly missed by family and friends.
I’d like the memory of me To be a happy one I’d like to leave an after-glow of smiles when life is done
Anniversary Mass on December 24th at 8pm in St. Agatha’s Church, Clar.
I’d like to leave an echo Whispering softly down the ways Of happy times and laughing times And bright and sunny days
Mass will be celebrated in St. Colmkille’s Chapel, Laghey Barr on Christmas Day at 10.30am.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve To dry before the sun Of happy memories that I leave When life is done.
St. Patrick’s Church, Drumkeen Every Sunday at 10am (English Mass Sunday at 11.30am)
LAGHEY BARR MASS
LATIN MASS
O’SHEA
Castleogary, Inver, Co. Donegal In loving memory of a wonderful husband, dad, grandad and great-grandad who passed away on 22nd December 2017. Husband When God was making husbands as far as I can see, He made a special soulmate especially for me. He made a perfect gentleman, compassionate and kind with more love and affection than you could ever wish to find. He gave my darling husband a heart of solid gold. He gave me wonderful memories only my heart can hold. He was someone I could talk to that no one can replace. He was someone I could laugh with till tears ran down my face. Next time we meet will be at heaven’s door. When I see you standing there I won’t cry any more. I will put my arms around you and kiss your smiling face. Then the pieces of my broken heart will fall back into place. Miss you so much, Marian xx Dad You were a Dad who was so special and who was loved so very much and brought so much happiness to the many hearts you touched. You were always kind and caring and so understanding too. And if help was ever needed Dad it so freely came from you. You were a gift to all the world and brought joy to everyone and life has never been the same ever since you have been gone. Love and miss you so much Dad. Colette, Fidelma, Brenda, Celine, Martin, Aaron, James, Shane, Gerry and Colum xx Granda Are you sitting there in heaven way up yonder in the sky, watching over us this Christmas with that twinkle in your eye? And we wonder, are you smiling at the old familiar sights of bright baubles, glowing candles, tinsel, trees and coloured lights. And although there’s some excitement as this Christmas Day draws near, have you noticed that we’re trying not to shed a silent tear? For we’re thinking of a person that we loved our whole life through and we hope you know, dear Granda that we’re really missing you. Love you always Granda, Natasha, Kerri, Danielle, Tirone, Cole, Erin and Niall xx Great-Granda May the winds of heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here. Love always, Caleb, Kyle and Flynn xx Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday 23rd December at 11.30am in St Naul’s Church, Ardaghey.
Niall Mor Notes Coming to the Niall Mor Centre in Jan 2019 Walk & Talk Group: every Monday at 10:00am, meeting at the Niall Mor Centre Scrabble: every Monday at 10:30am Spanish: Monday evening, Beginners 6 8pm, Intermediate 8 - 10pm. Date: TBC Pilates: Monday evening, Ladies 8 - 9pm, Men’s 9 - 10pm, Relax Kids: Thursday 10th Jan from 4 - 5 pm for 6 weeks Ladies Art Class: Thursday 17th Jan from 7 - 9pm for 8 weeks Eileen McGonigle Yoga: Thursday 10th Jan for 8 weeks 9:30 - 10:45am Tai Chi: Fridays from 9:30 - 11am, 8 week course. Date: TBC Kids Drama Class: Friday 18th Jan 5 - 8 years from 3:30 - 5pm & 9 - 12 years from 5:15 - 6:45pm Basket Making Workshop: Sat 12th & Sun 13th Jan from 10am - 4pm
Nollaig na mBan, or Little Christmas January 6th or the feast of the Epiphany is also known as Little Christmas or Nollaig na mBan, meaning Women’s Christmas. It’s an old Irish tradition where the men of the household were responsible for all the chores and duties that day, giving women and girls a rest day after the Christmas work and festive duties. This is also the day when Christmas decorations are traditionally meant to be taken down.
The Singing Priests CELEBRATE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
in St. Mary’s Church, Stranorlar on Friday 28th December. For info tel: 028 71382876
Thank You Pauline & Oswald Perry would like to thank everyone who supported their recent ‘Coffee day’ in the Presbyterian Church hall. The money raised will go towards the work of their daughter Alma & husband John as they continue to serve as missionaries in Mayotte, one of the Comoros islands.
A Christmas Poem I’m thinking of Christmas and my friends far away, and the times in the meadow as we played in the hay. Those were the days that will never come back, as we roamed through the meadows and played round the turf stack. The hay, it is finished, now my fortune to make, with my sweetie can and pandy, to the road I must take. To gather blackberries, some big and some small, for the size of the berry doesn’t matter at all! My sweetie can and pandy now filled to the top, I race down to Teresa to sell her the lot. Brian Harvey, Ardaghey.
Christmas Mass Novena Nine masses beginning Christmas Day, Ardaghey. Christmas Novena Mass cards available from Fr. Morty O’Shea, if you wish to enrol loved ones in masses and also purchase Novena Christmas cards. Suggested donation for card and enrolment is €3. Money raised will be used to support missions and formation of seminarians. Praying Our Lord's blessings on all.
The Credit Union Prayer Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace Where there is hatred, let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; and Where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master, grant that I may not So much seek to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
A Very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all Members. DONEGAL TOWN CREDIT UNION LTD., MILLER’S HILL, DONEGAL TOWN Tel: 074 9721293 or 9725727 Donegal Town Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. www.donegaltowncreditunion.com
One Solitary Life He was born in an obscure village the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another obscure village where he worked in a carpenter shop until he was thirty. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never went to college. He never visited a big city. He never travelled more than 200 miles from the place where he was born. He did none of the things usually associated with greatness. He had no credentials but himself. He was only thirty three. His friends ran away; one of them denied him. He was turned over to his enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves While dying, his executioners gambled for his clothing the only property he had on earth. When he was dead, he was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend. Centuries have come and gone and today Jesus is the central figure of the human race and the leader of mankind’s progress. All the armies that have ever marched all the navies that have ever sailed all the parliaments that have ever sat all the kings that ever reigned put together have not affected the life of mankind on earth as powerfully as that one solitary life. Dr James Allen Francis, 1926
Memorials Produced by Cavern Design Printing
All types of Memorial Cards printed. Please contact us for our current Brochure, Price List and Samples. Phone: 074 97 22677 Email: printing@caverndesign.com
Thank You
A sincere thank you from Solace Cancer Support Centre Donegal Town to Eamonn and Madge Martin for the generous donation of €1,000 from their 50th wedding anniversary celebrations, which was collected at the celebration.
Naomh Ultan
Pictured L-R: Eamonn Martin, Mary Ward, Maureen McNulty, Sr. Magdalene and Madge Martin
The Club Presentation Night takes place on Saturday 29th December in McLaughlin’s. There was no winner of the Royal Flush Jackpot. Numbers drawn were: 8, 10, 21, 22 Consolation prizes went to: Eoin Gallagher, Fanaghan, Inver; Ethan Shovlin, St John’s Point; Sean Gavigan, Bruckless. Jackpot next week: €4,080. Thank you for your support. The Club’s 25 Card Drive has resumed for the winter months; and is held on Wednesday evenings, in Mary Murrin’s, from 9:00pm. New card players Welcome. The Club wishes all its members a Happy and Holy Christmas.
Naomh Naille Christmas Draw Winners Hamper: Cathy O’Connell, Drimarone Hamper: Chloe Boyle, Mountcharles Hamper: Lara Kelly, Cranny Lower Drone: Pauline Cashman, Inver Headphones: Liam Kenny, Ednamuck Adult LGFA Jersey: Philomena Cunnea, Glencolmcille Child’s LGFA Jersey: Mary Coughlan Bluetooth Speaker: Katie Graham, Donegal Town Bottle of Vodka: Kieran Espey Bottle of Vodka: Emily Kennedy, Drumathumper Bottle of Vodka: Sophie and Chloe Lowther, Mountcharles Bottle of Whiskey: J. P. Ward, Glenties Bottle of Whiskey: Patsy Breslin, Ballybrillaghan Prosecco/White wine: Thomas Quinn, Drimconnor Wine/Biscuits: Siobhan McGroarty, Glencoagh Wine/Biscuits: Gary Torrens, Inver Wine/Biscuits: Michael Naughten, Portnoo Congratulations to all our winners. Thanks to Ciaran Kelly for his donation of prizes, and to all other prize sponsors. St Stephen’s Day Run and Walk will take place again this year at 11 am from the clubhouse. Come out and dust off the cobwebs and support the club. Dinner dance takes place on Friday December 28th in the Millpark Hotel. Tickets are selling quickly so please contact the Executive and do not be disappointed. We would like to thank all our members, supporters and sponsors for their continued support during the year and wish everyone a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.
Donegal Town FC Under 16 Presentation Evening Our U16’s had a small presentation night recently in Linda’s Diner. The 16’s had a great year overall, winning their league and going very close in the Champions League, losing out narrowly to eventual winners Keadue Rovers in the semi final. Many thanks to Jon and Linda Geary of Linda’s Diner for the generous hospitality once again.
Christmas Church Services ST AGATHA’S CHURCH CLAR Confessions: Wednesday 19th at 7pm Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 8pm Christmas Day: Mass at 10.30am
ST NAUL’S CHURCH, ARDAGHEY Confessions: Sunday 23rd 4.30pm-5.30pm Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 6pm Christmas Day: Mass at 11.30am
CHURCH OF HOLY REDEEMER, DRIMARONE Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 7.30pm Christmas Day: Mass at 9.30am
ST PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONEGAL TOWN Confessions: Wednesday 19th at 7.30pm Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass at 9pm Christmas Day: Mass 9am and 11.30am
FRANCISCAN FRIARY, ROSSNOWLAGH CONFESSIONS: Thursday 20th, 11am-1pm and 3pm-5.30pm Friday, 21st and Saturday 22nd continuously 11am-6pm Sunday 23rd 2pm-6pm Monday 24th (Christmas Eve) 11am-4pm. (Normal service will resume Wed, Jan. 2nd.) MASS TIMES: Thursday 20th Mass at 10am and 7.30pm (Padre Pio) Friday 21st Mass at 10am and 7.30pm. Saturday 22nd Mass at 10am and 7.30pm. Sunday 23rd Mass at 11am. Monday 24th (Christmas Eve) Mass at 10am, Carol Service 8.30pm, Christmas Vigil Mass 9pm Tuesday 25th, Christmas Day Masses at 8am and 11am Christmas Week: 26th-28th inclusive, Mass at 10am only. Saturday 29th, Mass at 10am and Vigil Mass at 7.30pm Sunday 30th Mass at 11am (No Exposition, No Confessions today). Monday 31st Mass at 10am (No Confessions, Shop & Mass Office closed) Tuesday, January 1st Mass 10am (No Confessions, Shop & Mass Office closed) Normal Mass, Duty times and Services will resume on Wednesday, January 2nd. Healing Service will be held on Sunday, January, 6th at 3pm.
ST JOSEPH AND CONNELL’S CHURCH, BRUCKLESS Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 9pm Christmas Day: Mass 11am
ST MARY’S CHURCH, KILLYMARD Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 9pm Christmas Day: Mass at 11am ST MARY’S CHURCH, FROSSES Confessions: Sunday 23rd 3pm-4pm Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 8pm Christmas Day: Mass at 10am
SACRED HEART CHURCH, MOUNTCHARLES Confessions: Sunday 23rd 5-7pm Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass 6.30pm Christmas Day: Mass 11am Apologies for any errors or omissions.
Crib at Rossnowlagh Franciscan Friary.
Photo: Louise Histon
ST MARY’S CHURCH, KILLYBEGS Christmas Eve: Children’s Christmas Mass at 7pm Christmas Midnight Mass at 11pm Christmas Day: Mass at 9am and 11am PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 25th Dec Donegal Town Presbyterian Church Christmas morning Service at 11am CHURCH OF IRELAND Christmas Eve Killybegs 7pm (a Christingle Service) Donegal 11pm HC Inver 11.30pm HC Christmas Day Lough Eske 9am HC Mountcharles 9.30am HC Killymard 10.15am HC Killaghtee 10.45am HC Laghey 11.30am HC 30th December (First Sunday of Christmas) Mountcharles 11am United Service METHODIST CHURCH 23rd December Ballintra 10.30am Sunday School Service Donegal 12 noon Sunday School Service Inver 3pm Rev. John Montgomery Ardara 12noon Rev. Des Davis Dunkineely 10.30am Carol Service Christmas Day Ardara 8.30am Donegal 9.30am Rev. John Montgomery Dunkineely 10am Ballintra 10.30am Rev. John Montgomery 30th December Dunkineely 10.30am Ballintra 10.30am Mrs. Dorothy Walker Ardara 12noon Donegal Town 12noon Mrs. Dorothy Walker December 31st Dunkineely Watchnight Service 7.30pm Ardara Watchnight Service 9.00pm Inver (TBC) Watchnight Service 11.15pm COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE Sunday 23rd, 7.30pm Donegal Church of Ireland