Letterkenny post 19 11 15 by River Media Newspapers

Letterkennypost & THE NORTH WEST

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

www.letterkennypost.com

FREE

VOL 11 ISSUE 9

Visit Hegartys Auto Services Ltd now.

2016 REAL DEAL

savings of up to

Carnamuggagh, Letterkenny

€4,000

Phone: 074-9121095 Fax: 074-9128807 E: sales@hegartys.com www.hegartys.com

T&Cs Apply T&C’s Apply

Go Further

NEWS SPORT OUT-AND-ABOUT FASHION MOTORING ENTERTAINMENT PROPERTY

Work on €11.5m new building to start next month

COURTHOUSE GO-AHEAD By Chris Ashmore

chris@letterkennypost.com

CONSTRUCTION work on a new €11.5m courthouse for Letterkenny will begin in early December, the Letterkenny Post can reveal. Construction and engineer group BAM has won the contract to develop new courthouse buildings in Letterkenny, Drogehda, Limerick and Wexford, as well as refurbishing four others in Cork, Mullingar, Waterford and Wexford. It’s the biggest new construction project in the town, and will lead to a considerable spin-off for local businesses during the building stage. Last month, BAM held a “Meet The Buyer” event in the town, offering small and medium sized enterprises within the construction sector the opportunity to meet directly with the procurement team for the project. The new courthouse – which will include four courts – will be built on the site of the former Letterkenny Leisure Centre off the High Road, around half a kilometre from the ex-

isting courthouse. Final contracts will be signed in the coming days, the Ofﬁce for Public Works conﬁrmed to the Post. Construction is due to take two years with the new facility being open for Christmas 2017. The current courthouse dates back to 1830 and although it was extensively modernised in the 1990s, it is not adequate to meet current demands. Indeed, back in 2010 one district judge commented on the “dreadful” conditions that people had to experience. There is very little space for members of the public and legal profession.

BAM was the ﬁrm that built the Coláiste Ailigh secondary school in the town. The courthouse project is part of a public private partnership (PPP) which will see BAM involved in the maintenance of the building for a period of 25 years.

■ Letterkenny Courthouse.

Centralised The building of the new court, with enhanced facilities, is likely to lead to a further centralising of court sittings in Donegal. In the past, many towns – including Raphoe, Lifford, Stranorlar and Falcarragh – all had their own court sittings. But in recent years, an increasing number of sittings have been centralised in Letterkenny.

■ An artists impression of the new Letterkenny Courthouse.

dd chillishaker Station House - Pearse Road - Letterkenny

chillishaker

Opening Hours: 5.00pm - 11.00pm

074 916

0008

www.chillishaker.com

Value meal pre-theatre 3 amazing courses!

Mon - Thurs (ex public hols) 5.00pm - 7.00pm

Meal €14.95 house wine €12.95

take home set meal for 2 only €28.00

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS DEATH NOTICE

Chris Ashmore 074 911 2715

chris@letterkennypost.com

News Editor:

Rory Mooney 074 911 2773

editor@letterkennypost.com

Sales:

Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure

086 6015 107

Now offering the biggest collection of shoes in the northwest

Paddy Kelly paddy@letterkennypost.com

James McNiff 074 911 2713

james.mcniff@letterkennypost.com

Cassidy Peoples 074 911 2748

cassidy@letterkennypost.com

Roisin Gallagher 074 911 2753

roisin.gallagher@letterkennypost.com

Production:

James Coyle 074 911 2746

production@letterkennypost.com

THIS week, Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure unveiled a custom-built shoe wall instore. Coming just in time for Christmas, the ﬂoor-to-ceiling display unit stocks the widest selection of runners and sporting shoes from all the major brands, making the Letterkenny sports shop one of the largest shoe retailers in the northwest. Customers can chose from a wide selection of golf shoes, runners, spikes and football boots in a range of colours, sizes and styles for men, women and children. Leading brands include Nike, New Balance, Puma, Asics, Footjoy, Adidas, Sketchers

and Callaway and the shop’s in-house gait analysis machine will ensure customers find the perfect fit. Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure is gearing up for the festive season, with something for everyone this Christmas. There’s a wide selection of gifts and stocking fillers for young and old, from the golf lover to the fitness fanatic or those who simply want to be more active by getting outdoors. The Christmas Club at Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure gives customers the opportunity to secure the ideal Christmas gift with a small deposit and orders placed online before 12pm

will ensure that your gift is delivered the next day. Meanwhile, as the Irish Aussie Rules team prepare to take on Australia this Saturday in the International Rules game in Dublin, fans can gear up for the big game at Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure with the new Irish International Rules jersey starting from just €50. For more information on the perfect gift for your loved one this Christmas or to ﬁnd out more about the Christmas Club at Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure visit www. michaelmurphysports.ie or check out the Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure Facebook and Twitter pages.

McENTEE Thomas (Tom) late of Epsom Surrey, formerly of Ballybofey and Dublin 7th November 2015 peacefully at home in the loving care of his wife and family now at rest after a long and courageous battle. Dearly beloved husband of Anne and much loved father of Niamh, Owen and Colette and adoring grandfather to his five grandchildren. Deeply regretted by his sons-in-law, daughterin-law, brothers, sisters, extended family and friends. Funeral Mass on Monday 30th November at 11.30am in St Joseph’s Church, Epsom. Donations in lieu of flowers to Brain Tumour Research. All enquiries to WA Truelove, Funeral Directors, 14-18 Church Road, Epsom, Surrey KT17 4AB. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis

POTTERY PAINTING BIRTHDAY PARTIES Parties with a difference!

3B Grand Central, Canal Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel: 074 9122010 | Mob: 087 232 6943 Email: info@kilntime.ie Download our brochure from www.kilntime.ie

If you have a story or a sales query telephone

074 911 2700

Serving the Letterkenny Community for 30 Years

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS

PROMOTION

The Letterkenny Post reserves the right to decline, omit, or alter an advertisement submitted for publication, or to terminate any contract. The Letterkenny Post will not be held responsible for any loss caused as a consequence. No liability accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error in the printing of an advertisement, or by the omission of an advertisement. Positioning of an advertisement is at the discretion of the newspaper. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage caused by a delay in the forwarding of box numbers.

NOW SUPPLYING

Hi-Glo Eggs - €15 / 40kg Bag

40kg Maxi Heat Coal €13 per bag

€28

Friday November 27th in our Oldtown Branch

Buy one get one

FREE 12” Pizza

OUR CHRISTMAS CLUB IS NOW OPEN!

EVERY SUNDAY! Call: 074

91 22 444

or go to www.fourstarpizza.ie

OPEN FROM 12PM TO 2AM

Station Roundabout, Letterkenny

FREE PRESCRIPTION COLLECTION AND DELIVERY SERVICE Oldtown Road, Letterkenny Tel: 074 91 21369 | Open 6 days

LK Shopping Centre Tel: 074 91 22304 | Open 7 days

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS Council expenditure will top €360,000 a day in 2016

SF join FF and FG in backing €132m council budget By Chris Ashmore

chris@letterkennypost.com

IN a rare show of political unity at a local level, Sinn Féin councillors backed their Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael colleagues as Donegal Co. Council approved its budget for 2016 in Lifford on Wednesday. In recent years, the council attracted considerable – and often negative publicity – as adopting budgets led to numerous adjournments and meetings that went through the night. But this year’s budget meeting was one of the smoothest in decades. The Council’s proposed expenditure for 2016 is €132.8 million, up slightly on the previous year’s figure of €131.2m. In effect, the council’s expenditure next year works out at around €360,000 a day. Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and

Sinn Féin were all supportive of the budget proposals. Donegal Co. Council Chief Executive Seamus Neely has placed an emphasis on a number of areas, including: Economic development and job creation; Maintenance and improvement of key infrastructure; more resources for housing and roads; tourism development and promotion; and the targeting of external funding streams. Although some councillors had some reservations about certain aspects of the budget, the majority were in favour of approving the proposals put before them. Cllr. Frank McBrearty (Ind) was one of those who raised issues about the budget and claimed that it was “becoming irrelevant to members.” He said that as a businessman you do not accept a first price when being sold some-

thing. He felt that councillors had not had a proper chance to engage with officials to get a better deal for the people they represent. He also asked that councillors be supplied with figures regarding the total amount of loans still being paid by the council. Cllr. John Campbell (Ind) was among the councillors to raise a number of queries during the afternoon session which saw Cllr. John O’Donnell (Ind) calling on councillors “not to play to the media”.

Concerned Cllr. Micheál Cholm MacGiolla Easbuig (Ind) was one of the councillors who said he would be voting against the proposed budget. He highlighted two areas that he was concerned with, the underfunding of local authority housing, and the amount

of work being carried out by private contractors on behalf of the council. However, he was not in the chamber - as he had been doing a radio interview - when the budget was adopted. Cllr. Gary Doherty, on behalf of Sinn Féin, said that his party wanted to see measures taken to appeal the decision to reduce rates on utility companies, stressing that Donegal Co. Council could not afford this loss of income. He welcomed the assurances given that there will not be any reduction in services as a result of lower rates revenue as a result of possible rates on utility companies. He also expressed concern about aspects of the roads budget. However, he concluded by saying that many concerns raised had been taken into account and his party would be supporting the budget.

Cllr. Bernard McGuinness (FG) said that the budget reflected the change that has been brought about in the country, from a period when the country faced bankruptcy to a stage now where there is growth again. Praising the executive of the council, he expressed hope that the region can have “a great economic future”. Fianna Fáil whip Cllr. Seamus O’Domhnaill also expressed support for the budget as well. A late amendment from Cllr. Campbell regarding changes including an increase to the members’ development fund, and library service, was seconded by Cllr. Niamh Kennedy (Ind). However, Finance Chief Garry Martin felt it was not achievable. In four of the past six years the Council has had to reduce its expenditure but now for

the second year running, expenditure is growing again. The local authority is also now once again increasing its workforce, even though the additional numbers will be relatively small. The revenue budget for 2016 was passed, although there was no recorded vote. Council Caothaoirleach Ciaran Brogan said this is “now a historic time for the northwest” and praised the crossborder co-operation that is now in place. In conclusion, Mr. Neely thanked the councillors for their constructive engagement during the budget process. The biggest areas of expenditure for the council are housing and roads, while rates account for almost one quarter of its income. Commercial rates have been reduced by 8.2% in the period 2010-2016.

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Man threatened to knife nightclub bouncer A 21-year-old man has appeared before Falcarragh District Court charged with a number of theft and public order offences. Inspector Denis Joyce gave evidence of an incident on April 27, 2014 when Darren Flanagan, also known as Darren Bradley, filled up his car with €35 worth of fuel at Lafferty’s Filling Station in Creeslough before making off without payment. In a separate incident on May 4 last, gardaí were flagged down by bouncers from Voodoo on Lower Main Street in Letterkenny who were dealing with a group of aggressive males. The defendant nudged forward towards gardaí and became verbally abusive and threatening telling them to come and fight me you piggy b***ards, you cowards . He also threatened to knife a bouncer and was

FEED YOUR DOG

FOR LESS REKO DOG FOOD 10KG

Only

€8.99

GARY’S PET WORLD LETTERKENNY RETAIL PARK

charged with intoxication and threatening behaviour. Separately on November 7, 2014 Bradley was detected stealing a bottle of vodka from Lidl on Pearse Road when it fell out of his top and smashed on the floor. Defence solicitor Frank Dorrian said his client had had a troubled upbringing. “He developed a serious alcohol abuse issue and all of these issues were borne out of this. He has a dreadful background but hasn’t had a drink for four months which is something of a personal record for him. He hasn’t had any help with this but with Christmas coming that may put him at risk,” Mr Dorrian added. Judge Paul Kelly was told that Bradley, with addresses at Hillview, Cashel in Creeslough and Kill in Carrigart, had 21

previous convictions for criminal damage, dangerous driving and motoring offences, which included a suspended sentence. The judge adjourned the case until January for preparation of a community service and probation report. “It’s good to hear that you have been abstaining from alcohol but it’s going to be difficult for you to do this on your own. What you’re doing is admirable but you could go off the rails at any time. I would strongly advise you to engage with the services available to help you,” the judge told the defendant. He also warned Bradley that with a suspended sentence hanging over him, his behaviour between now and January would determine how he deals with the case.

n Joe Smith (Lions Club Coordinator) and twin sisters Millie and

Sophie Bolger urge customers to double their efforts and ‘give big’ at the launch of this year’s Christmas Food Appeal in association with the Lions Club and Tesco Ireland.

“Absolute lunacy behind the wheel” A JUDGE has told a 28-year-old Donegal man, who crashed into the front window of a bank, that he had shown “absolute lunacy behind the wheel”. Stephen Watters appeared in court yesterday charged in relation to the hit and run incident at Main Street in Falcarragh on November 29 last year. Inspector Denis Joyce told Falcarragh District Court that Watters had been driving through the West Donegal town at 5.40am when his silver Toyota car mounted the pavement and crashed through the front window of the local Bank

(INCORPORATING GARY’S PET WORLD)

TEL. 074 9127559

of Ireland branch. Defence solicitor Patsy Gallagher told Judge Paul Kelly that the incident had not been “a ram raid situation”. The judge remarked that perhaps Watters had been “trying to make a lodgement”. Mr Gallagher added that his client had been leaving friends home when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the window of the bank after which he panicked and left the scene. The Inspector said that given the early hour of the morning when the incident occurred, it was fortunate that no-one who might have

been using the ATM was injured but the court heard that damage was caused to the building. Watters also faced a separate charge of dangerous driving on August 24, 2014 at Meenderrygamph in Gweedore. On this occasion, he crashed into a bridge owned by Donegal County Council, writing off his vehicle and causing substantial damage to a bridge wall. Judge Kelly remarked that Watters had carried out “an extraordinary sequence of driving that indicated his absolute lunacy behind the wheel”. He added that he

3537_Gibson_Poster_Jigsaw_A4_HR.pdf

PERSONAL INJURY

05/10/2015

INSOLVENCY

would like to hear evidence that Bank of Ireland had been compensated for the damage caused to their premises. Watters, of Shroughan in Falcarragh, has previous convictions for dangerous driving and driving without insurance. Mr Gallagher said his client had brought €200 to court to compensate the bank. Taking his record into account, the judge said he was recommending that Watters undertake the local Pro Social Drivers course to improve his driving skills. He adjourned sentence until January 20 next.

16:52

IMMIGRATION

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

CONVEYANCING

Don’t Settle for Less

Talk to us!

Personal Injury* Insurance Claims 5RDG 7UDƬF $FFLGHQWV *Irish solicitors may not calculate fees or other charges in contentious business as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement nor is it our practice to do so.

CALL +353 74 919 4444

ASK ABOUT OUR GIFT VOUCHERS - PERFECT FOR CHRISTMAS

Phone: +353 74 916 8888 www.gibsonandassociates.ie

Gibson & Associates SOLICITORS

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Signiﬁcant funding boost for region By Rory Mooney

editor@letterkennypost.com

DONEGAL is set to benefit from substantial cross-border funding over the next few years. Two major projects have been finally given the go-ahead to receive funding which aims to boost the economy of the entire northwest region. The long-awaited A5 infrastructure project, which will allow greater northwest access to Dublin will receive €75 million from the government over the next three years. It is envisaged that construction will begin in 2017, with a view to the road being finished by 2019. The funding package for the A5 upgrade is the largest planned road project on the island of Ireland. Welcoming the announcement, Junior Minister, Joe McHugh said that the A5 upgrade would be a “game changer” for the northwest region. He said: “The A5 is very important to the North West and additional funding is critical to the keeping the recovery going across the island. “This infrastructure will help connect Donegal, Derry City and the wider region to the rest of Ireland and will benefit companies, communities, commuters and tourists

■ Funding has been secured for the long-awaited A5 upgrade. alike.” Also welcoming the announcement, Sinn Féin�s Padraig MacLochlainn said that securing the dual carriageway

funding was a key priority for his party. “This recommitment in this latest Agreement for the North will reassure the people

of Donegal and the North West that they will eventually avail of equality in access to their capital city and the economic hub of this island,” Deputy

Making a list? We’ve got something for everyone here in… letterkennysc.com

MacLochlainn said. Meanwhile, during a visit to Derry on Wednesday, Foreign Affairs Minister, Charlie Flanagan announced that the Government is to spend €2.5 million on a new North West Gateway Initiative. The North West Gateway Initiative is to support economic regional development and to help create jobs and promote investment in the North West. The cross-border gateway initiative, which will receive €2.5million from Dublin and the same from Belfast was originally announced as far back as 2006. Mr Flanagan said that the gateway funding would help boost the fortunes of an area that’s often been neglected in the past. He said: “This injection by the Irish Government will bring together communities and will ensure a greater degree of economic development in an area of high unemployment. “What the Government has been doing now that we are securing the economic recovery is to ensure that it is properly and adequately felt throughout the regions. This sum will go towards that.” The funding will go towards local projects, and be administered through the local councils.

newsbriefs Council to receive windfall Donegal Co. Council is set to get over €14 million in 2016 - thanks to a property tax “top-up” fund! Each year councils all over Ireland bring in money through the Local Property Tax. In council areas with higher property values, greater revenues are received. And in order to try and ensure a more level playing ﬁeld for the local authorities an equalisation fund mechanism has been established. In effect, this means that surplus property taxes from higher property value areas are redistributed to areas with lower property values. Donegal topped the charts this year when it got almost €13.9m from the equalisation fund. And the good news is that the ﬁgure for 2016 will be slightly higher at €14.25m Cork City, Kerry, Clare, Cork County, Dún Laoghaire, Dublin City, Fingal, Galway City, Kildare, Meath, South Dublin and Wicklow will subsidise the rest of the councils.

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Accidents / Personal Injury? Be Informed. Get Advice. Call us today for a FREE Consultation

NEWS Council responsible for 15,000 public lights

Council needs €10m for new lights By Chris Ashmore

chris@letterkennypost.com

DONEGAL Co. Council could be facing a massive multimillion euro bill to upgrade its network of public street lights. The local authority is responsible for over 15,000 public lights around the county. But there has been little investment in upgrading them

over the past two decades. Now council officials estimated that it will cost between €7 million to €10 million to bring them to modern standards - using low-energy bulbs. Donegal Co. Council Chief Executive Seamus Neely has acknowledged that some lights have had to be replaced in recent year’s as they were “no longer fit for purpose”.

He added: “The whole stock needs assessment and significant upgrading.” Now the council wants to get a loan of around €500,000 to begin an upgrading programme. “It is intended that any new upgrades will use good quality energy efficient lights and will be installed to meet modern lighting standards and control systems,” he stated.

Don’t forget to register to vote 2321 young people in Donegal have turned 18 since last year and will have right to vote Young people in Donegal are encouraged to make sure they are registered to vote, given that a General Election is just a few months away. The registration deadline is November 25 – after which time applicants must look to be

included in the supplementary register). Applicants need to fill in an RFA1 form which is available on the www.checktheregister.ie site or at local post offices and libraries. Any young person who will be 18 years on or before February 15 2016, is eligible to be registered now.

Magee’s Camera of the week • Road Traffic Accident • Passenger Injury • Motorcycle Accident • Pedestrian Injury • Slip & Fall Accident • Accidents at Work • Occupational Hearing Loss

Exceptional Service. Exceptional Results.

FREEPHONE: 1890-908-913 74 Upr. Main St., Letterkenny & Main St., Milford Email: mcginleysollk@eircom.net

Canon Powershot G7X THIS week’s Camera of the Week is the Canon Powershot G7X. The Canon PowerShot G7 X is a new pocketable premium compact camera with a large CMOS image sensor and a fast lens. The metal-bodied G7 X has a 1.0-type backilluminated 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor, an f/1.8-2.8, 4.2x lens with 9-blade aperture, full manual controls, shooting mode and exposure compensation dials, 3-inch tilting LCD touchscreen with 1,040K dots, built-in pop-up flash, DIGIC 6 processor, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, ISO range of 100-12800, full HD movie recording, 14-bit RAW image capture, 31 AF points,

focus peaking function, 6.5 fps burst shooting and a lens control ring.

The Canon Powershot G7X truly is the experts pocket camera.

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

JOIN OUR

n Letterkenny Retail Park

Chriﬆmas Club

TODAY!

Sale is part of €175m deal

Letterkenny Retail Park is sold By Chris Ashmore

chris@letterkennypost.com

LETTERKENNY Retail Park has been sold along with four other retail parks in a massive deal worth in the region of €175 million. Investment firm Davidson Kempner has snapped it up along with the Nutgrove Retail Park in Rathfarnham, Dublin; Tullamore Retail Park, in Co. Offaly; Deerpark Shopping Park, in Killarney, Co. Kerry; and Sligo Retail Park. Savills, the estate agents handling the huge deal, report that there was strong domestic and international interest in the properties. The five properties have a combined floor space of over one million sq. ft. – making it the biggest sale of retail property in the state. Letterkenny Retail Park has 38 units with 380,000 sq. ft. of retail space. This is the largest of the five sold. It has a strong line-up of fashion tenants including H&M, New Look, River Island, Menarys and TK Maxx. Other leading occupiers include Marks & Spencer, Homebase, Boots, Argos, Halfords and Smyths. Dunnes Stores, McDonalds and Lidl were not part of the sale. Letterkenny Retail Park is currently producing €3.06 million per annum which is set to increase after the H&M rent free period expires. Commenting on the deal, Domhnaill O’Sullivan of Savills, said: “There was an extremely positive response to the sale of the National Portfolio and we are very pleased with how the process went. “We are witnessing continued demand from a mix of Irish and international purchasers who are seeking to acquire retail in scale while rental levels are recovering on the back of improving consumer sentiment. As a retail park portfolio, there were significant synergies in terms of dealing with existing tenants across multiple schemes and more importantly new tenants looking to access the market.” The sale price, in excess of €175 million, equates to an initial yield of approximately 6.5%. When the portfolio went onto the market the initial price guide was in the region of €162 million.

Manus McGinty

School of Motoring Mobile: 085 741 6871 Covering Letterkenny and the surrounding areas ADI/RSA APPROVED DRIVING INSTRUCTOR DUAL CONTROLS FULL INSURED BEGINNERS TO PRE-TEST

From

Don’t leave it all to Santa!

All first time drivers who complete a course of 10+ lessons will automatically qualify for a

1 YEAR INTRODUCTORY NO CLAIMS DISCOUNT

AND UP TO 20% OFF

THIER FIRST INSURANCE PREMIUM

WIN 10 FREE LESSONS!

Anyone who completes 2 lessons at the Driving School on or before 12th December will be entered into a draw.

Find us on Facebook or call for more details Manus McGinty School of Motoring

085 741 6871

www.magees.ie

Magees Chemist One Hour Photo

* 24 hour services, 6x4 & 5x7 only

27 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny (074) 9121409

www.facebook.com/MageesPharmacy

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

COLÁISTE AILIGH LEITIR CEANAINN

CLÁRÚ & OÍCHE EOLAIS don scoilbhliain 2016/2017 REGISTRATION AND INFORMATION EVENING for 2016/2017 SCHOOL YEAR

ar an Déardaoin, 26 Samhain 2015 on Thursday 26 November 2015 ag 7.00 i.n. sa scoil 7.00 p.m. in the school Fáilte roimh dhaltaí rang a sé agus a dtuismitheoirí Sixth class students and parents welcome

Fled to ex-wife’s house after collision A 51-year-old man reported his car as stolen to gardaí after he had earlier collided with another motorist in Letterkenny and fled the scene. Inspector Michael Harrison told Letterkenny District Court that Declan McKelvey had been driving at the Oatfield roundabout at Gortlee on March 3 last when he saw a black Mercedes coming towards him at speed. Mr McKelvey realised that the vehicle, which was being driven by Denis McClafferty was not going to stop and veered off to the right but McClafferty crashed into the passenger side of Mr McKelvey’s car before taking off from the scene. Gardaí found debris including part of a number plate and bumper at the scene and they later identified McClafferty as the culprit when they found his extensively damaged car. The court heard that

McClaffery of 35 Knocknamona Park in Letterkenny went to Letterkenny Garda Station later that night “with drink taken” to report his car as stolen. He returned the next day and admitted his involvement in the incident where he was charged with hit and run offences and careless driving. Gordon Curley, appearing on behalf of McClafferty, said there were icy road conditions that night and that his client had simply lost control of his vehicle. “After the incident, he went to the home of his ex-wife and had a few drinks before deciding to go to the station and report his vehicle as stolen. He returned the next day to make a full and frank admission,” he added. McClafferty was fined €150 for careless driving and a further €100 for failing to remain at the scene.

Hospice fundraiser n Adult Education and Training Centre students raised €342 in support of the Donegal

Hospice following their Halloween 5k annual fundraiser. Pictured with the cheque are Donegal Hospice staff members.

Jewellery thieves appear in court TWO Romanian women used “slight of hand” techniques to dupe a shop assistant into handing over €819 worth of gold rings and bracelets. Florica Rostas of 29 Booth Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 and Monica Rostas, 14 Sweetbush, Tallaght, D24, both appeared before Letterkenny District Court heard on Monday charged with theft and handling stolen goods at the Bluestack Shop, Falcarragh, on November 5. Garda Niall McGuire gave evidence that they responded to a call from the shop staff after the women entered the store. They had been looking at the jewellery and “tricked” the shop assistant by pocketing the rings and leaving without pay-

ing. They were arrested later and made admissions. The items were recovered and an order was made to return the jewellery to the store owner, Neil Collins. The court heard that Florica Rostas had one previous conviction for theft while Monkica Rostas, a mother of three, had no previous convictions. Judge Paul Kelly was told that the defendants survived by selling ‘The Big Issue’ magazine and that they realised that they “put their freedom at risk”. Monika Rostas was fined €150. Florica Rostas was remanded to appear in court in Dublin on Tuesday on separate charges.

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

newsbriefs

Jail for Nigerian man who used fake credit card to shop online

A 35-year-old man, who attempted to fraudulently buy goods online from a wellknown department store using a stolen credit card, was ďŹ ned and jailed at Letterkenny District Court this week. Selman Momoh, 35, originally from Nigeria but with an address at Flat 1 Stapense Cottage, Navan, Co. Meath, was charged with failing to produce a passport at Letterkenny Garda Station and handling stolen property at Main Street Ballybofey on October 29, making a gain by deception at McElhinney Stores, Main Street, Ballybofey and unlawfully using a computer on October 27, theft at McElhinney Stores on October 28, having no insurance, NCT or drivers licence at Main Street Ballybofey on October 28. He was also charged with using a false instrument at Donegal Town on October 13 and deception by signing a letting agreement with a false name on October 7. The court heard staff at McElhinneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s became suspicious when an online order for a pair of shoes worth â&#x201A;Ź216 was ling placed online. The credit card but a short time eswas etc.declined alter the order replaced to the same Stranorlar address with another card. Staff realised the address was invalid. The following day Momoh called the store to check if

they order he placed for the shoes was dispatched and told staff he could call to collect the items. He was observed collecting the items and was arrested as he got into a silver Jaguar car. He admitted that he made the purchase with a fraudulent card he got online and placed the order from an internet cafĂŠ in Dublin. He claimed he had no passport but a garda search of his ďŹ&#x201A;at later showed that he had a valid Nigerian passport. Momoh was found in possession of a set of â&#x201A;Ź200 Newbridge earrings and CCTV footage from McElhinneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showed him taking them. He used a fake Irish passport, that he had bought online for â&#x201A;Ź1,200, to attempt to get a valid drivers licence in Donegal Town. Solicitor Patsy Gallagher said his clients â&#x20AC;&#x153;life fell apartâ&#x20AC;? a number of years ago and he made a â&#x20AC;&#x153;full and frankâ&#x20AC;? admission to the gardaĂ. Mr Gallagher said his client had been in custody for three weeks, adding that his criminal attempts showed Momoh was â&#x20AC;&#x153;intelligent on one hand and was completely stupid on the otherâ&#x20AC;?. Judge Paul Kelly said Momohâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crimes were â&#x20AC;&#x153;not off the cuffâ&#x20AC;? as he imposed a â&#x201A;Ź250 ďŹ ne and jailed him for three months back dating the sentence by three weeks.

Sewage issue resolved

â&#x2013; At the presentation of Quality QualiďŹ cations Ireland further education and training national certiďŹ cates in Health Service Skills Level 5 at St. Conals Education Centre on Friday last are seated from left Carole Gill, Class Represenatrive, Roisin McLoughlin, Specialist Coordinator CNME, Patrick Glacken, Area Director of Nursing & Midwifery Palanning and Development, Catherine Cannon, Director Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education and And Gallen, Director of Nursing & Midwifery Planning & Development. Back from left are Mary McKenna, Teresa Jordan, Catriona Gormley, Brendan McGonagle, Gerard McDermott, Leo Doherty, Breid Boyle and Katrina Doherty. Photo- Clive Wasson

Stole diesel after attending wedding GARDAĂ? found a 22-year-old man with his hands soaked in diesel when they were called to the scene of a theft from a business premises in Letterkenny, Falcarragh District Court has heard. Inspector Denis Joyce told the court that gardaĂ attended Letterkenny Concrete at Cullion Road on February 8 last after William McLaughlin had spotted two males using a syphon pump to steal diesel from his yard. They observed two women sitting in a UK registered car at the premises and two males running towards a ditch. GardaĂ apprehended Martin Maughan at the scene â&#x20AC;&#x153;with his hands soaked in dieselâ&#x20AC;?. Defence solicitor Kieran Dil-

AJOR ALL M G EVENTS IN SPORTVE on our LI D T.Vs 60â&#x20AC;? H

lion said the co-accused in the case had been the instigator in the incident while his client â&#x20AC;&#x153;had foolishly went along with the planâ&#x20AC;?. He said that the two men had been coming from a wedding when they decided to carry out the theft of â&#x201A;Ź120 worth of diesel. Maughan of 11 Cluain Ard in Killyclug, was also charged with the theft of a blue check shirt worth â&#x201A;Ź19.99 from H&M in Letterkenny Retail Park on March 28 last. The court heard that CCTV footage had shown Maughan enter the shop and place the shirt underneath his top before removing the security tag. Mr Dillion said that his client, a married man with one child and another on the way, had found it difďŹ cult to

make ends meet and couldnďż˝t afford clothing, resulting in him stealing the shirt which he then returned to gardaĂ. Judge Paul Kelly was told that Maughan had 19 previous convictions, which included assault, dangerous driving, trespass, theft and road trafďŹ c matters. The court also heard that the defendant had issues with alcohol in the past, made bad choices and kept bad company. Mr Dillion said his client had brought â&#x201A;Ź150 to court to compensate for the diesel and a cheque for â&#x201A;Ź20 for H&M. The judge adjourned sentencing until February next and ordered a probation and community service report on Maughan.

SEWEAGE works in the Rosemount Terrace area of Letterkenny have now been completed, it has been conďŹ rmed. Welcoming the announcement councillor Jimmy Kavanagh said that he was delighted the foul sewage issue had been dealt with. Cllr Kavanagh said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has been an ongoing issue for a long time for the residents of one of the most picturesque and well kept terraces in the municipal area, I am delighted that the issue has now been ďŹ nally addressed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would like to thank Donegal County Council and all the parties involved for cooperating to bring the issue to a successful conclusion.â&#x20AC;?

If you have a story or a sales query telephone

074 911 2700

Live Music

4HURS &RI 3AT 3UN 4HURSDAY .IGHT

Carvery Lunches

"ACK BY POPULAR DEMAND PM PM

"ARFOOD 3ERVED !LL $AY #HRISTMAS 0ARTY BOOKINGS AVAILABLE Tel: 074 9127330 | Email: info@thebrewerybar.com

Trad Session &RIDAY .IGHT

Bradley Brothers

3ATURDAY .IGHT

The Undecided

3UNDAY .IGHT

Mark Black

10 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

newsbriefs Table Quiz A TABLE quiz will be held in the Orchard Bar, High Road on Friday, November 20 in aid of Fr Jacob’s Precious School. The school, which is based in Kerula, Southern India looks after poor children with severe learning difﬁculties or mental disabilities. Doors open at 8.30 for a 9.00pm start. All are welcome.

Christmas Craft Fair THIS year’s annual

Letterkenny Christmas Craft Gift and Food Fair will be held this Sunday, November 22 in the Radisson Blu Hotel from 12-5pm. This year’s Fair now in its ﬁfth year will offer a huge array of hand crafted Christmas Treats all in time for the festive season. Some of the items on sale will include hand made soaps, wood turning, hand crafted jewellery, hand made Christmas decorations, toys, cosmetics, silks, ﬂoral arrangements, scented candles, hand blown glass and yummy foods, jams, chutneys, sweets and so much more. Doors open at 12pm. Free entry for children.

Donegal to showcase its crafts talent DONEGAL’S thriving arts and crafts sector will see 17 local exhibitors showcased in the biggest ever National Crafts and Design Fair at the RDS Dublin from December 2-6. Among the local craftspeople who will be showing off the best of Donegal talent are Glenties-based jewellery designer Hannah McGuinness, Ramelton silk painter Karen O’Kane of Koko Designs and artist and sculptor Marina Hamilton from St Johnston. Others exhibiting at the fair include award-winning knitwear designer Michelle McCarroll from Letterkenny, Japanese paper craft artist Naomi Fleury of Killybegs, Donegal hand-

weaver Tristan Donaghy of Kilcar and Dungloe-based contemporary glass artist Karl Hulme. This is the Year of Irish Design and our top craftspeople and designers from fashion to jewellery and beyond will be exhibiting their cutting-edge wares alongside the more traditional fare. “The Fair gives a vital economic stimulus to the crafts and design industry in Donegal and elsewhere with a spend in excess of €1 million per day,” said Festival organiser Patrick O’Sullivan. “The annual RDS fair is vital to the crafts industry as a whole and it is es-

timated that it generates enough business to keep most of the exhibitors’ busy for at least four months into the New Year. “We are particularly pleased to have many excellent craftspeople from Donegal involved and showing off such a huge array of skills and talents at the show.” Record-breaking crowds of over 40,000 are due to attend the ﬁve day event in the RDS which will feature over 600 stands this year. The show features the best of contemporary crafts plus a spectacular Christmas food emporium with over 120 artisan food producers from all

over Ireland. The range of stands varies from jewellery, textiles, ceramics, woodcrafts and leatherwork to paintings, photography and naturally crafted beauty products. “Many of Ireland’s most established and exciting new craftspeople will be there and because the goods are handmade, they have the added distinction of each one being unique,” said Patrick. The National Crafts and Design Fair 2015 takes place at the RDS Main Hall from December 2-6 from 10am each day. Admission is €10, OAP’s €8, children under 16 free.

Cathaoirleach takes part in London’s Lord Mayor’s show DONEGAL participated for the first time ever in The Lord Mayor’s Show in London. The historic pageant, which took place over the weekend on Saturday, November 14, celebrated its 800th anniversary this year. Half a million people lined the streets of central London to cheer on the parade and it was watched on national television by millions more. For the first time ever, Tourism Ireland invited Lord Mayors and Mayors from Ireland to participate in the historic event, including Donegal County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Ciaran Brogan – to help showcase the island of Ireland in our largest tourism market and to further cement the relationship between Ireland and the UK. Also for the first time ever, the Dublin Lord Mayor’s ceremonial coach has left the city to appear in the an-

cient London pageant. The coach, which is a feature of the annual St Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin and other civic celebrations, dates from 1791. Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “The Lord Mayor’s Show is an extremely high profile event, celebrating its 800th anniversary in 2015. Tourism Ireland is delighted that the island of Ireland will be represented for the first time. Great Britain is the largest market for tourism to the island of Ireland and The Lord Mayor’s Show will be an excellent platform to promote the destination. “It is another opportunity to profile the island of Ireland and to celebrate the relationship between our two islands. We have been delighted to work with Co-operation Ireland and Dublin City Council in making it all happen.”

■ HE Dan Mulhall, Irish Ambassador to Great Britain; Cllr Ciaran Brogan, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council; Christopher Moran, Chairman of Co-operation Ireland; and Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, attending a reception in the Irish Embassy in advance of The Lord Mayor’s Show.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH

4 COURSE MENU ONLY €19.95

CHRISTMAS DINNER

5 COURSE MENU ONLY €27.50 Christmas Stay Package

ONLY €60pps Includes overnight with full breakfast and 5 Course Christmas Dinner Menu

PRIVATE PARTY Celebrate this Christmas in one of our Private Dining Suites with bar facilities and catering for up to 80 guests. CONTACT US TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY DILLONS HOTEL, Letterkenny Main Street T: 074 912 2977 W: www.dillons-hotel.ie

Illuminating the character of yesterday, Capturing the ambience of today Have a very Merry Dillons Christmas

Dillons CHRISTMAS

letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FRAGRANCES UNDER €20 €14.99

50ml Calvin Klein CK One EDT

75ml Victoria Beckham Signature EDT

€17.99

75ml Guess Seductive EDT

50ml Tommy Hilﬁger Tommy Girl EDT

€19.99

FRAGRANCES €20 - €30

100ml Sarah Jessica Parker Lovely EDP

€29.95

€24.95

30ml Calvin Klein Euphoria EDP

50ml Emporio Armani Diamonds EDP

50ml Lacoste Touch of Pink EDT

FRAGRANCES €30 - €40 €39.95

30ml Paco Rabanne Lady Million EDP

€29.95

€39.95

60ml Jimmy Choo EDP

50ml Gucci Guilty Intense EDP

100ml Calvin Klein Eternity EDP

€24.95

€34.95 30ml Jimmy Choo Man

W NE

€59.95

50ml Gucci Guilty Bamboo EDP

30ml Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb EDP

30ml Paco Rabanne Olympea EDP

MENS FRAGRANCES

75ml Lacoste Red EDT

€59.95

€46.95

50ml Marc Jacobs Illicit EDP

€44.95

FRAGRANCES OVER €40

€44.95 50ml Paco Rabanne 1 Million

27 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny. T: 074 9121409 E: office@magees.ie W: www.magees.ie

€56.95 50ml Hugo Boss The Scent

Images are for Illustration Purposes Only

12 letterkennypost

newsbriefs Fanad Gaels funding FANAD Gaels have received a welcome ﬁnancial boost. Junior Minister Joe McHugh, has announced that he has sanctioned a grant of €6,365 for Fanad Gaels to enable them to purchase equipment. Announcing the grant, Minister McHugh said that he was providing this grant on the condition that the club implement a realistic Irish language plan which will be agreed with the Department and which will focus on the younger members of the association.

Set dancing charity event A SET dancing ceili will be held in Kilmacrennen Hall this Sunday. The event is in aid of B-Bobs charity day. Music will be provided by Christopher. Dancing from 4-7pm, admission €7. Refreshments will be served.

If you have a story or a sales query telephone

074 911 2700

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS Downings man ends illustrious 30-year Civil Defence career DOWNINGS native Cathal Carr, has just completed an illustrious 30-year career working with Donegal Civil Defence. He joined as a volunteer in September 1985 and soon became immersed in all aspects of the organisation. In 1986 he attended his first course in the then Civil Defence School, Ratra House Phoenix Park, Dublin to undergo a Teaching Methods course. In 1989 Cathal qualified as a Casualty Instructor, a natural progression for him, giving his background in nursing prior to taking up a career in teaching. Keen to put his qualification to good use and give something back to his community, he set up the Casualty Class in the Hay Hall in Carrigart, an area that still has very active members in to this day. During his career as a Casualty Instructor, Cathal also became an Examiner in this field and would travel to other counties to assist with Intermediate Examinations as they were known then. Although Cathal was a busy man both in his daily life as a Teacher, working at night time as an Instructor for Civil Defence, Cathal still found time to deliver first aid training to the Donegal County Council staff on a regular basis and became known across the county in the council circles as’ Cathal, the first aid instructor’. In 1997, Cathal received recognition for his hard work, commitment and dedication to Civil Defence by being promoted to Area Commander for the then Milford Electoral Area, a position he held until his retirement. With this appointment came re-

■ Cathal and his wife Liz with the Donegal Civil Defence Ofﬁcer Edel Flynn at the presentation ceremony in Ballybofey.

sponsibility. Cathal was responsible for the volunteers in his area, all the community duties / events in the area, such as the Kerrykeel Vintage Show, Donegal International Rally, Lennon Festival, the Glebe Gallery Heritage week …the list goes on. He was also responsible for ensuring that Civil Defence continued to develop in the Milford EA. As ﬁrst aid progressed through the years with the advancement of technology and more modern methods of administering first aid, Cathal became very active in promoting CPR and the use of the Deﬁbrillator and he joined the Irish Heart Foundation, also as an Instructor, in 2005. In 2008, Civil Defence nationally joined the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) and with that came a lot of changes in the area of the casualty service. First Aid moved from Basic, Intermediate and Advanced levels to Cardiac

First Responder (CFR), Occupational First Aid (OFA), Emergency First Responder (EFR) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) qualifications. Cathal too made the change and qualified as a Casualty Instructor under the PHECC Programme and continued to deliver training in these areas until his retirement. At a recent presentation night for Cathal, which was held in Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey, Edel Flynn, Civil Defence Officer told the gathering “that it was with regret and sadness” that she received the phone call from Cathal informing her of his plan to retire. She said it had been a privilege to serve as his CDO in the last 14 years. A presentation was made to Cathal to mark his retirement. The members of Donegal Civil Defence wish Cathal a long and happy retirement to enjoy with his wife Liz and family.

LYIT announces second Irish language scheme A NEW scheme has been prepared by the Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) which aims to encourage the use of Irish on campus. The scheme, which was recently approved by the Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Joe McHugh. A thorough process of consultation and collaboration was conducted which resulted in proposals to enhance Irish language service provision on campus over the next three years in accordance with Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla, 2003. The provisions outlined in the new scheme will have a significant impact on the Institute’s dealings with its internal and external customers. Ms Rachel Akkoç, co-ordinator of the scheme at LYIT, commenting on the proposals said: “I’m confident that the Institute will fulfil its objectives under this third scheme. LYIT recognises the importance of catering to the Irish speaking community and aims to ensure that those wishing to conduct their Institute business through Irish will be facilitated.” The President of the Institute, Mr Paul Hannigan congratulated Rachel on completion of the new scheme saying: “Donegal has one of the largest Gaeltachtaí in Ireland. LYIT has a role to play in the cultural contribution to the area and this new scheme is part of that. “It’s very important that the Institute promotes the use of Irish on campus and encourages staff/students who wish to speak Irish as their first language. This commitment is enshrined in the Institute’s Strategic Plan.” A copy of the Institute’s new scheme may be viewed at www.lyit.ie and is available also in hard copy format upon request from gaeilge@ lyit.ie.

20 Main Street, Letterkenny Letterkenny Shopping Centre Tel: +353 74 9122120 www. r m cc u llag h. i e

Great range of Christmas Gift ideas instore!

letterkennypost 13

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

He Has His Christmas Party Outfit and Warm Winter Coat - Have You Got Yours? Unit 4, Letterkenny Retail Park Tel: +353 (0)74-9161615

Don't Stand Still....

Foyle Street, Derry Tel: +44 28 7137 3317

14 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

newsbriefs Christmas bonus decision welcomed THE government’s decision to pay a 75% Christmas Welfare Bonus to recipients of longterm Social Welfare, has been welcomed by a local councillor. Cllr John O’Donnell has also called for the full restoration of the scheme next year. Those who claim: State Pensions and Widow/ Widower’s Pensions; Surviving Civil Partner’s Pensions; Invalidity Pension, Blind Pension, Disability Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Domiciliary Care Allowance; Long-term Jobseeker’s Allowance including Jobseeker’s Transition Payment; Deserted Wife’s Allowance One Parent Family Payment, Guardian Payments; Back to Work Allowance, Community Employment, Tús, Gateway Job Initiative, will all beneﬁt from the government’s decision. Cllr O’Donnell said: “People are talking up the fact that we are moving into better times however I must caution that pensioners and families receiving beneﬁts are on the whole living hand to mouth on a weekly basis, therefore I would encourage the Government to commit to a 100% restoration of the Christmas Bonus in 2016.”

Hospital staff scoop recognition award STAFF at Letterkenny University Hospital received an award at the recent Saolta University Health Care Group Staff Recognition Awards. The Enhanced Recovery Unit at the hospital won the award in the Innovation in a Clinical Area category. Presenting the award to the team from Letterkenny, Maurice Power, CEO of the Saolta Group said: “This project owes its success to the multidisciplinary team working to re-design the Joint Replacement Program –it is an excellent example of process re-engineering, delivering quality outcomes for patients and improving efﬁciencies in the hospital.” A number of other Letterkenny

projects were shortlisted as ﬁnalists on the night including; the Breast Cancer Multi-Disciplinary Course from Letterkenny University Hospital, which was shortlisted in the Education and Training category, the Friends of Letterkenny General Hospital which was shortlisted in the Best Team category, Leading the Way in Urinary Catheter Care Initiative, which was shortlisted in the Quality Improvement category and the Cancer Research and Website - Stop Cancer, which was shortlisted in the Research category. This is the second year of the Saolta University Health Care Group Staff Recognition Awards which aims to recognise and reward excellent staff

■ Pictured at the Saolta Staff Recognition Awards from left to right were: Maurice Power, CEO Saolta University Health Care Group; Siobhan Kelly, Clinical Nurse Manager; Dr Paul O’Connor, Consultant Anaesthetist; Theresea Mellet, Clinical Nurse Manager; Carolanne Boyle, Clinical Nurse Manager; Jean Kelly, Group Director of Nursing and Meave McGinley, Physiotherapist. performance, promote a sense of pride and reinforce the Saolta University Health Care Group as an excellent place to work. The awards celebrate achievements in the areas of patient care, education and research. Applicants from across the Group’s hospitals were invited to

participate in eight categories. A total of almost 140 entries were received and these were shortlisted to ﬁnalists in each category by an independent judging panel. The winners were announced on the evening by event host Norah Casey at an event attended by the ﬁnalists.

One of first same-sex marriages held in Donegal EARLIER this week was very special for Wayne Gough and DJ O’Hanlon, from Lordship, Co. Louth, as they tied the knot and became one of the first same sex unions recognized as married in the Republic of Ireland. The ink was hardly dry on the Presidential Order when Wayne and DJ married officially in a short private ceremony at the renowned Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal. Wayne, station manager at Dublin Airport and financial accountant DJ had already celebrated their Civil Partnership at the multi-award winning hotel a few months ago in the

u o lA l y is d e e n

presence of family and friends. They discovered Harvey’s Point one day whilst out driving and seeing it in the magic of the lakeside setting and the beauty of the hotel made them decide if ever they did get married, it would be at Harvey’s Point. That dream came true and in the process, Wayne and DJ made their own little piece of Irish history. The happy couple said that being properly married and to have that marriage recognized in every way was ‘a fantastic feeling’. They added that now they felt at

last that they were accepted like every other married couple and all that this entails. Speaking on behalf of Harvey’s Point, Sheila Russell said that the hotel looks forward to extending the warmest welcome to the many same sex couples that would like to marry in this very special location. “It is lovely for Harvey’s Point that all weddings will be the same and all couples will feel pampered and special and that marriage is not just conﬁned to some and not others,” she said. Sheila also thanked Wedding Reg-

istrar Siobhan Duffy Brown who facilitated the early morning wedding on the shores of Lough Eske. “It is a great day for Ireland’, said Noel Cunningham, general manager of Harvey’s Point. “We once again make a very strong statement about equality and fairness and the world will take note. “We lived in the shadows too long and I will have a very special welcome for all same sex couples getting married at Harvey’s Point. Today we roll out a very special pink carpet,” he added.

y n n e k r e t t e L

R A P L I A T E R Y LETTERKENN

We Get in to the festive O HAVE VER spirit 30 STORES Join us this festive season for all your Christmas needs with food, fashion, gifts all in one location.

FPARRKEINEG /letterkennyretailpark letterkennyretailpark.com

letterkennypost 15

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Y L Gif TH ts E fo FA r M IL AL W W W . G A R Y S P E T W O R L D . C O M A T O N L I N E

…including our Stunning Santa Ceramics Santa Clause with 2 Children and LED Lights or Ceramic Santa with Children, Snowman and LED lights

RRP €59.99

The Biggest Range in the North-West

€12.99 €19.99 €49.99

&%% A:9 A^\]ih '%% A:9 A^\]ih )'% A:9 A^\]ih

Our Price €49.99

SANTAS

We have the most fantastic range in all shapes and sizes... Including 60 cms Santa with Lantern

Great Value!

See our Full Range

MASSIVE RANGE - CALL AND SEE FOR YOURSELF

hop like no other! A Christmas S

FIBRE OPTIC CANVASES With LED Lights

RRP €49.99

Our Price

€29.99

CHRISTMAS TREES

Absolutely Beautiful for the home at Christmas Various Sizes Different Scenes From

ONLY €14.99 WELCOMING Outdoor Christmas Mats

MASSIVE RANGE TO CHOOSE FROM A view of one of our Christmas Sections including a tin soldier six feet tall!!! ONLY AT COONEYS!

1.8 M. Princess Green Pine r.r.p. €129 Our price €99 save…€30

COONEYS - THE NEW NAME in Furniture

r.r.p….€199 Our Price €149…..Save €50

2.3 M Appleton Tree

From

ONLY €9.99

...A NEW SUITE FOR CHRISTMAS?

GIFT WRAP

The Ashley 3-1-1

…Best Value Around

is breaking all records.

8 Mtrs Gift Wrap

S H O P

Lights

ONLY €2.99

Black-Brown-Tan A Leather look with the warm feel of fabric.

3 Rolls (24 mtrs in total)

ONLY €5

+ Order now for Christmas+

.com

WAS

€1,895 NOW ONLY

€1,395 SAVE €500

Shop On Line www.cooneys homeandgarden.com www.garyspetworld.com

60 cms Fibre Optic Tree

only €29.99

SEE OUR FANTASTIC RANGE

SUITABLE FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS

SANTA

Arrives here on 27th November

.....watch this space !!!

JOIN OUR MOBILE V.I.P.CLUB

EXCLUSIVE MOBILE DEALS

Text COONEYS to 51444

JOIN OUR MOBILE CLUB Text Petworld to 51444

GET 10% OFF

Your First Online Order

OPEN MON, TUES, WED 9-6 THURSDAY & FRIDAY 9-7 SATURDAY 9-6 | SUNDAY 12-6

HOMEWARE - GIFTWARE - PARTYWEAR - GARDEN CENTRE - PETWORLD - CHRISTMAS SHOP - FUELS

LETTERKENNY RETAIL PARK

TEL. 074 9176555

SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.COONEYSHOMEANDGARDEN.COM

Beautiful Gifts for the Home…

t es op t gg S h e s Bi as hw e t Th istm or N r Ch the in

a g i M c a s l i s a m t s i r Ch at COONEYS

16 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

CARTOON

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

letterkennypost 17

18 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

COMMENT

Faith matters

■ Pictured (L to R): Cliodhna McHugh, Loreto Secondary School, Letterkenny, Independent MEP Marian Harkin, a sponsor of the competition, and Aiveen McHugh, mother of Cliodhna and a former pupil of Marian Harkin.

Letterkenny student wins National Soapbox Award CLIODHNA McHugh won a Highly Commended Award at the ﬁnals of the Europe Direct Soapbox Public Speaking Competition organised by the Libraries Development Management

Agency through Europe Direct Library Outlets. The ﬁnals were held at Farmleigh House on Monday, November 16.

Christmas has arrived at

Point ... ll Year Round for a mas Gift t is r h r ... C uche The ift Vo oint Round ointvGey’s P P ’s y all Year arve Har The H Gift for

The Perfect Christmas Gift...

s Harvey’

ĂƐ 'ŝŌ

ŚƌŝƐƚŵ

dŚĞ

ĨŽ

ŽƵŶĚ ĞĂƌ Z ƌ Ăůů z

istmas

The Chr The

int G y’s Po Harve

uche

ift Vo

ĂƐ 'ŝŌ

ŚƌŝƐƚŵ

dŚĞ

ŶĚ ƌ ZŽƵ ůů zĞĂ

ĨŽƌ Ă

ur You, o t. Thank s and ed suppor a tm s Chri ntinu Merry for your co , Guests u, our 22208 -74-97 nk Yo m l: +353 spoint.co d Thersaon !support. wn, Te ey n a gal To stay@harv s ne a e or in p ued Do Eske, .com n n Lough rveyspoint Chrie,sbtm ha y pho onti www. n r your c MeGrrifyt onlifo as sts, hristmGue

... a Harvey’s Point Gift Voucher! cial C

22208 -74-97 m l: +353 spoint.co ! wn, Te ey gal To stay@harv erson Done r in p Eske, .com Lough rveyspoint one o p ha by h www.

is spe

Buy th

ecial

is sp Buy th

as Gif

m Christ

ne,

t onli

The Gift at Christmas for all year round! Lough Eske, Donegal Town Tel: +353 74 9722208

No. 1 Hotel in Ireland

as voted by Trip Advisor Travellers Choice

stay@harveyspoint.com www.harveyspoint.com

No.1 Sunday Carvery

in Ireland

y nephew and his wife were blessed this summer with the birth of a baby boy, their ﬁrst, and the most recent addition to our wide and increasingly numerous family circle. They live in Australia and so most of us have not yet had the opportunity to personally greet the little one and welcome him into the family fold. From the many pictures his proud parents have sent us to keep us up to date on his staggering rate of growth, I’ve noted in particular how big his eyes are. When I remarked this to my mother, she agreed. She also reminded me that all small children have big eyes. They’re always watching you, taking everything in - often a lot more than you realise. They learn from what you do just as much from what you say, if not more so. Every minute spent with them is an educational opportunity, with you being the teacher. In St. Luke’s Gospel (14:1-6), Jesus is presented with a teaching opportunity. Invited to supper in the house of a Pharisee, we are told that Jesus was ‘being watched’, for it was a Sabbath, and much to the Pharisees’ displeasure, he had a habit of healing people on that most holy of days. All eyes were on Jesus, and it would appear that his captive audience wasn’t so much childlike as it was childish. Not good for the digestion! To be invited to dine in company where you are being scrutinised is never a pleasant experience, still less when your fellow guests are seeking to entrap you. The food is stale, the talk insincere and the atmosphere false. As one wise preacher observes, ‘a false atmosphere is as false as the worst kind of lie.’ Yet Jesus does not feel bound by the narrow expectations of his hosts. Yes, he bows with reverence to the traditions of the past to which the Pharisees cling, but he doesn’t feel bound to observe them rigidly when they yield injustice and hardship. Jesus, without being asked, does what he knows to be right. He cures a sick man. He sweeps away the falsity of the situation and he acts to bring home the lesson that the Sabbath is made for healing and salvation, and not for the slavish observance of rules.

In that graced moment of healing and teaching, Jesus reminds us that we all have opportunities to witness to our faith. Like Jesus, we are being watched, and that is especially so when those around us know we are Christian. On a recent pilgrimage to Assisi, I was reminded of St. Francis’ oft-quoted enjoinder to preach the Gospel always and use words if necessary. Every time we interact with other people, they will pick up some kind of message from us and whether we realise it or not, they will associate Christianity - and maybe even God - with what they see in us. In a couple of week’s time, my grandnephew will be baptised and the responsibility to be an ambassador for Christ, as St. Paul puts it in 2 Corinthians 5:20, will fall to him. It seems an all-too-heavy burden to place on the tiny shoulders of a wide-eyed newborn. Yet all that he is called to be is himself, just as Jesus was in the Pharisee’s home. The call to be Christ to the world, is the call to be fully human. For no one else will have his sense of humour. No one else will have his way of relating to people. So if he stays close to Jesus and tries to be the best version of himself, he’ll make an impact. The same is true for us. God will use us, with our talents and abilities, our weaknesses and limitations, to reach people in ways that no one else can. For our witness to be authentic, we need to trust in the Lord, much the same way that my grandnephew trusts his ﬂedgling parents. On the day of his baptism, they will cradle him in their arms, just as they’ve been doing since he graced their world with his presence. It is because of this familial trust that the seed of faith planted at baptism can grow to bear fruit. We too need to allow ourselves to be cradled once again in the loving embrace of our good God and to trust that, with the help of his grace, we are capable of doing a lot more than we think. For Christ is in us, and he wants us to touch everyone with his love.

letterkennypost 19

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Moving Mevagh Forward workshop A WELL attended Moving Mevagh Forward/Failte Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Experience Workshop took place in the Carrigart Hotel last week. A number of individuals presented how they developed their new businesses since the last workshop in May and Máire Aine Gardiner, Fáilte Ireland advised on trends in the Tourism industry and updated participants on opportunities/assistance available for 2016. On a show of hands one hundred per cent of the tourist providers present said that tourist numbers were up compared to 2014 levels. In 2008 McNutts Tweed, Downings lost a large contract for weaving linen. They went back to their roots and redeveloped a range of wool throws, blankets and other accessories. Their brand name was still well known so made their task of recovery a lot easier. A shop was opened at the mill and this was a great way to get quick customer feedback on new developments and designs. The ﬁrst few years were very

tough but slowly they found other shops to stock their products. After two years they started exhibiting at trade shows in the UK and this brought growth in the UK and near European markets. They will open a Visitor Centre at their factory, beside the pier, in Downings next year and conduct guided tours for visitor groups. Happily the growth is continuing as the economy picks up and this means they are expanding their team in Downings and creating employment. The Carrigart Hotel changed hands a number of years ago and each year since then manager Maggie Doherty, in conjunction with the owner, carried out improvements. They concentrated on the front of house, dining room and bar area. Patron numbers increased and during the summer they carried out customer surveys to determine the feasibility of opening in the off-season. There was overwhelming support for the idea and they now open seven days a week,

again creating employment and keeping people in the locality. Claggan Lamb is the product of Claggan farm, Carrigart overlooking Sheephaven Bay and refers to locally produced lambs reared in their natural environment raised on lush sea misted grass. The concept that was developed in July 2015 is to provide a local product high in quality and traceability on a menu locally and this now appears on the menu of the Rosapenna Hotel, Downings. Claggan Lamb can also be purchased freezer ready for private customers and all butchering is done through the reputable McGettigan’s Butchers, Milford. Another success story was the opening of Doe Castle during the summer for guided tours. Numbers visiting the Castle and taking the tour exceeded expectation. Work is ongoing at the moment in preparation for the new season. Máire Aine Gardiner, Fáilte Ireland spoke about trends in the Tourism industry and discussed topics including Capi-

tal Investment, Signage, Photo markers, Interpretation Panel, Tourism Products, Marketing/ Digital and 2016 Priorities and plans. The next workshop will take place in the spring when other participants will showcase their new businesses.

■ Doe Castle

20 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Donegal Association commemorate 80 years A LARGE crowd attended the Donegal Association Annual Mass and Lecture on Sunday, November 15 in the Regency Hotel. The mass was concelebrated by Fr. Michael Mc Cullagh and Fr. Charlie Cunningham. After the mass the Fr. McDyer Memorial Lecture was delivered by historian, Sean Boner from Dungloe. It was fitting this year that the lecture was based on the Arranmore Disaster as it was as a result of this tragedy that the Donegal Association was founded 80 years ago. At the lecture, Sean gave an insight into the tragedy which ‘struck a chord with the emerging Irish state at the time.’ It was a fitting tribute on the 80th anniversary of the association that long standing members Kathleen Sheerin and Charlie McGinley were recognised and presented with a token of appreciation for their hard work and commitment to the association down through the years. Kathleen has been a member of the committee since 1973 and was the first lady chairperson and the second lady president. Charlie first joined the committee in 1956 and has been part of the committee for the majority of those years. He has been joint treasurer since the late 1980s. Kathleen and Charlie are two familiar faces of the Donegal

n Kathleen Sheerin and Charlie McGinley cut the cake to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Donegal Association.

n An Cathaoirleach Elaine Caffrey and President Hugh Harkin make a presentation to long standing members Kathleen Sheerin and Charlie McGinley.

Association and it is through committed individuals like them that the association continues to grow from strength to strength. The association had an exhibition of old photographs from the Arranmore Disaster and artwork from the children of the Arranmore Schools based on the tragedy on display. There was also an exhibition of old photographs from Donegal Association events over the years and live music

for the 80th commemoration was provided by the fantastic Early Family from Arranmore Island.

Final call for nominations A final reminder that the closing date for the receipt of nominations for Donegal Person of the Year is November 30. mAny individual or group of people may submit a nomination. The person nominated should have made a significant contribution to the promotion

of the county at local, national, or international level. Nominations should set out the reasons for the nomination and include supporting documentation and endorsements from individuals and groups. Nomination forms may be downloaded from the Association’s website www.donegalassociation.ie or you can send your nomination directly to us by letter at The Donegal Association, The Teachers Club, 36 Parnell Square West, Dublin 1.

n Committee members Elaine Caffrey, Martin Shovlin and Marie Ryan with Hailey Carroll.

letterkennypost 21

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

OW F DER N

OR G

EED CHR UA R A N T

ISTMAS DELIVERY...

SOFAS for

CHRISTMAS LOW LOW PRICES ON SOFAS AND SUITES

ALEXANDER 3+2 LUXURY REAL LEATHER

0 335 € RRP CE PRI R U O

5tg 7 6 €1 196 S OR

£1

AUDREY 3�1�1 RECLINER SUITE RRP €2498

OUR PRICE €1499 OR £1070 Stg

NINA 3�1�1 RECLINER SUITE RRP €1799

OUR PRICE €1299 OR £927 Stg

ELIZABTH SUITE 4 SEATER + 3 SEATER RRP €2999

OUR PRICE €1799 OR £1285 Stg

FREE DELIVERY THROUGHOUT THE NORTH WEST 40% ALLOWANCE ON STG 57-62 UPPER MAIN STREET, BUNCRANA, CO. DONEGAL, F93 DD40. T: +353 (0)74 9361075 E: INFO@HEGARTYS.IE Fb: HEGARTYSBUNCRANA W: WWW.HEGARTYS.IE

22 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS Gardaí throw their support behind chilly charity challenge

Public urged to sign up for icy plunge DONEGAL gardaI and some well-known sporting personalities have joined forces with Special Olympics Ireland to call on people to get freezin’ for a reason this December. Endurance swimmer Anne Marie Ward from Portnablagh, athletics legend Danny McDaid and members of the gardaI stationed at Milford Garda Station were on-hand to help launch the sport’s charity Polar Plunge fundraiser which is taking place at Rathmullan beach on December 12. This unique event sees

plungers plunge into the icy waters at the picturesque beach whilst raising money for Special Olympics athletes through sponsorship. Special Olympics Ireland is hoping for a strong turn-out of plungers on Saturday December 12 with all of the funds raised going towards supporting the organisation’s athletes. To encourage people to get in the mood for plunging, Garda Sergeant Paul McGee, Garda Austin Marron and Garda Zoﬁa Esaul, along with local Special Olympics

■ Sgt Paul McGee, Garda Zoﬁa Esaul, Garda Austin Marron with endurance swimmer Anne Marie Ward and Patrick Quinlivin, Special Olympics gymnast in Rathmullan beach, urging people to sign up to The Polar Plunge.

gymnastics athlete Patrick Quinlivan, who brought home four bronze medals from the recent World Summer Games in Los Angeles and endurance swimmer Anne Marie Ward, the ﬁrst Donegal woman to swim the English Channel, took an icy plunge at the picturesque strand last week. The Rathmullan Polar Plunge is being spearheaded by Garda Sergeant Paul McGee, as part of his role with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, an organisation that has been in partnership with Special Olympics for many years. He said: �Whilst the Polar Plunge has become an annual event across Ireland with An Garda Síochána and PSNI Law Enforcement Torch Run, it will make its debut in Donegal to raise vital funds for Special Olympics Ireland. “This will help the organisation to continue to develop its inclusive sports training and competition programme for children and adults with intellectual disabilities via volunteer-led local clubs. The money raised will support Special Olympics Ireland in its mission to transforming the lives of its athletes through sport.” Also speaking at the launch was Special Olympics fund-

OGC

■ Members of the Gardaí with Olympian Danny McDaid, endurance swimmer Anne Marie Ward, Special

Olympic Gymnast Patrick Quinlivin with locals on Rathmullan beach, urging people to sign up to The Polar Plunge, taking place on December 12 raising funds for Special Olympics Ireland.

raising co-ordinator, John Kivlahan, who commented: “The Rathmullan Polar Plunge will not only help to raise much needed funds, it will also raise awareness about the fantastic work of athletes, coaches and clubs all over Ireland. “We are hoping that over

100 plungers will take part in the event on December 12 and I would urge people to sign up today.” Those interested in signing up for the Polar Plunge can register at www.specialolympics.ie/polarplunge. Registration costs €15 and

plungers are asked to raise an additional €35 which goes directly to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities through sport and competition. Plungers who raise more than €50 will also receive a complimentary ‘Ice Cool’ Polar Plunge t-shirt.

Regency WINTER SHOPPING BREAK

O’Gorman, Cunningham & Co. - Solicitors -

16 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

All your legal requirements catered for including:-

• Accident Claims • Personal Injuries • Wills / Probate • Land Purchase / Sale • Family Law • Commercial Law • Criminal Law • Employment Law

“Solicitors you can trust”

Midweek €129 Weekend €159 Nov 15th - Jan 16th

The Regency Hotel are delighted to offer you an incredible winter shopping break.

he Regency Hotel is located just outside Dublin City centre, close to all major attractions. We’ve put together a fantastic shopping package this winter. With transfers to and from the wonderful Kildare Village, this is a trip you don’t want to miss. If a 10% discount doesn’t sweeten the deal then a coffee and pastry in the Village should seal it. Check out all that’s on offer in our package here and make sure to book today. We’ll look forward to seeing you soon, at The Regency Hotel Dublin.

CALL

01 837 1531 (quote Letterkenny Post)

Package Includes: • Overnight Stay for two with Full Irish Breakfast • Dinner for two with a glass of wine • 10% Discount at Kildare Village, earn Air-miles on purchases • Tea/Coffee & Pastry at Kildare Village • Transfers to & From Kildare Village • Full Access to Leisure Centre & Pool • €10 Spa Voucher (subject to minimum spend of €30 per person, Treatments must be prebooked)

These events are sold and supplied by the Regency Hotel with whom you contract when you accept this offer. Terms & conditions apply

letterkennypost 23

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

+ .D$SFBSZ $P ] &TU

U G R T 8 & / : * % 3 0 $ & % & )0. & 3 0 5 4 3 & 1 6 4 0QFOJOH 'SJEBZ /PWFNCFS UI

$SPTTSPBET ,JMMZHPSEPO -JÃ²PSE $P %POFHBM

24 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS/comment

McElhinney’s nominated for top award Another voice THE Lingerie Department at McElhinney’s Department Store were not only up for one but two awards in the Stars, Underlines Best Shop Awards 2015, recently. Despite not claiming an award, just to be nominated for the prestigious gongs shows an indication of how well the department store is regarded in the fashion world. The categories in which McElhinney’s are shortlisted as finalists include ‘The Excellence and Outstanding Achievement Award’ plus ‘Excellence/Special Recognition Award’. The Star Awards recognise excellence in Lingerie sector and with more than 460 shops nominated from across the UK and Ireland, it is an exceptional achievement to make the finalist list. Organisers of Stars Best Shop Awards, have confirmed that it was a very rigorous selection process which included looking at all aspects of the service, product and team within the business and McElhinney’s excelled on all aspects. For McElhinney’s Lingerie team it has always been their aim to be best in class offering customers a wide selection of lingerie products in sizes AA – K cup whilst specialising in D plus bra fittings and exceptional service. In the last few years, the ad-

He can be contacted on 074 9123961 or mark@newlifefellowship.ie

Justice for Paris n McElhinney’s Lingerie Department was nominated for two awards at the Underlines Best Shop Awards in London recently.

dition of a prosthesis/breast form and mastectomy fitting service in a confidential and private setting has added so much to the customer experience instore. Talking about the nomination, Lingerie buyer and department manager Lisa McKinney said: “I am honoured and delighted that we were nominated for two fantastic awards, with the team of eight specialist fitters and many years of fitting experience it is an amazing achievement. “We pride ourselves in offering excellent customer service and going above and beyond every day for our customers.” At McElhinney’s Lingerie de-

partment customers will find an extensive range of carefully selected brands from all over the world that are renowned for their excellent design, quality of manufacture and superb fit. To experience the award winning star service at McElhinney’s why not call instore, you’ll find the best in beautifully designed lingerie, swimwear & beachwear, maternity, mastectomy, shapewear and every day essentials. Lisa McKinney and Dana McMahon head of buying at McElhinney’s, represented the store at the finals in the UnderGlobe in Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London last Thursday.

Gift ideas...

Zorro Set Red Candle Holders RRP €39.95 NOW €24.95 /£17.82 Stg

by Johnny McCollum

Rainbow Party Pack Wine Glasses Set of 6 RRP €39.95

Scarlet Black Candle Bowl RRP €49.95

NOW €19.95 /£14.25 Stg

NOW €29.95 /£21.39 Stg

57-62 UPPER MAIN STREET, BUNCRANA, CO. DONEGAL, F93 DD40. T: +353 (0)74 9361075 E: INFO@HEGARTYS.IE Fb: HEGARTYSBUNCRANA WWW.HEGARTYS.IE

Last Thursday was a good day. It was a day when most of us had never heard of the Bataclan, a day when we associated Paris with its rich culture, a day before last Friday’s senseless bloodshed. In the days since, Paris has dominated the airwaves, with a seemingly endless array of questions. Where did they get their weapons? How was this not stopped? Is anywhere truly safe? Then there’s a more puzzling question still: How could someone do this to their fellow human beings? In our age of 24 hour news, these discussions have inevitably filled the airwaves, and yet answers are still remarkably scarce. Perhaps this is due to the rawness of what has just happened. Those images will be seared onto our minds for the rest of our lives, but at least the shock will gradually fade. Perhaps the answers will come in time, but for now those images are too fresh for us to get our heads around.

I certainly don’t have the answers. Just like everyone else, I’m still coming to terms with this latest atrocity. Having said that, my mind keeps coming back to one particular line from God’s word which I’ve found comforting over the last few days. “The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished.” (Nahum 1:3) It is so easy to despair in a week like this: not just over those who have been cruelly slaughtered, but also over those who are getting away with it. The suicide bombers will never face a court of law, while the alleged mastermind is thought to have slipped away to the safety of Syria. Every fibre of our bodies scream for justice to be served, and every fibre recoils when that doesn’t happen. This verse is one of God’s many guarantees—he will not leave the guilty unpunished. It reminds us that Friday’s suicide bombers aren’t cavorting with 72

virgins, they are facing the reality of God’s perfect justice. It reminds us that the mastermind may escape France’s justice, but he will not heaven’s justice. This verse shows that justice in its context. God doesn’t work according to our timetable, he works according to his. This just, merciful God is slow to anger. He gives people time to turn their backs on sin, trust Jesus, and be forgiven. Yet, that time is not without an end. We shouldn’t mistake God’s slowness for inaction. Justice may not be served just yet, but it will be served. This verse is not an excuse to be bloodthirsty; unlike many other religions, Christianity proclaims a message of peace and reconciliation, rather than jihad and hate. Nevertheless, we should be comforted by this truth from God’s word. One day these monsters will be called to account. Only a truth like this can save us from despair.

letterkennypost 25

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Christmas at the Courtyard AFTER the wonderful success of last year’s traditional Christmas Market in the Courtyard Shopping Centre, the Town Team and the Courtyard Shopping Centre are pleased to announce its Back! This year let us transport you into a new era of Christmas shopping, join us and relax in the magical festive atmosphere of Letterkenny Christmas Market in The Courtyard Shopping Centre. Where you will find unique, personalised and handmade gifts as well as mouth-watering seasonal treats made to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Located in the heart of our Town on Main Street, the Christmas market is the perfect destination for a shopping retreat. With one hour of free parking in the Courtyard (€1.50 all day in middle deck) you are free to roam the town centre’s Main Street’s and indulge the unique offering of local shops, services, restaurants, bars and cafes in the crisp winter air before returning to indulge in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Christmas Market. Main street businesses along with the

into the Christmas Spirit as you shop and an opportunity to visit the man himself in Santa’s Grotto! There are a variety of choirs, musicians, the town band and orchestras playing everything from Christmas Classics to modern music. The opening day of the Market coincides with the Letterkenny Chambers turning on of the Christmas lights and the first running of Cara Houses ‘Santa Dash’! For more information Like “HeartLK town centre” on Facebook or on our Website www.Letterkenny.town Market Times: Friday 27th Nov: 4pm8pm; Saturday 28th Nov: 12-5pm; Saturday 5th Dec: 12pm-5pm; Saturday 12th Dec: 12pm-5pm

Events in the Area

Courtyard have pulled out all the stops with over 30 crafters in attendance each day from Donegal and beyond. The market will consist of a mix of beautiful handmade crafts and amongst them you will find ceramics, knitwear, felt, woodcraft, tweed, vintage, crochet, photography, paper craft, paintings, wreaths, decorations, home baking, cupcakes, muffins, gifts galore and much more! Here you will be sure to find those perfect personal Christmas gifts and maybe a treat for yourself along the way. There will be an array of music and entertainment at the market to get you

Letterkenny’s Christmas Lights will be turned on the evening of the 27th November at the Market Square. Letterkenny traditional market opening 27th November @ 4pm in the Letterkenny Courtyard Shopping.

Letterkenny CHRISTMAS MARKET Handmade Crafts Personalised Gifts Sweets and Treats Craft Demos ......

Visit Santa’s grotto! Christmas Carols, Disney Frozen Characters

Santa Dash Charity event for Cara House 27th November prior to the switching on of the Christmas lights

Christmas Market Entertainment Friday 27th November (Opening of Market 4pm) Letterkenny Senior Accordion Band 6pm Disney Frozen Characters Santa’s Grotto Santa Dash Turning on Letterkenny’s Christmas Lights Saturday 28th November 1pm-5pm Liam Harkin Musician ‘Easy Listening’ Christmas melodies & Firm Favourites Comlcille Gospel Choir, Musical Director Maggie McAteer Saturday 5th December 1pm-5pm Errigal Groove Orchestra & Saxtet Liam Harkin ‘Easy Listening’

Children’s Entertainment Have your photo with Santa in his Grotto. (Charge applies) Disney Characters’ will visit 27th Nov & Saturday 12th Dec.

Friday 27th Nov till Saturday 12th Dec. Friday 27th 4pm- 8pm Saturdays 12pm - 5pm

Shop Local for Unique Gifts This Christmas

TOWN TEAM

LETTERKENNY

LK FREE WIFI

26 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

PETS

LK Pets

PEDIGREE BEEF & CHICKEN

SPECIAL OFFER

For all your pets needs!

Find us on facebook

2KG BAGS

ONLY €6.00

Unit 4, Glencar Retail Park, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

T: 074 91 27397

OPENING HOURS MON 11-7 | TUES - SAT 9-7 CLOSED SUNDAY

ON BETA DOG FOOD

Clothing your dog are born with a very thin coat (Dalmations etc) and these dogs really appreciate some heat from a coat during their walks in the cold weather. Dogs with thin coats should not be left out in the cold in wintertime. If your dog has a thick coat and you keep it indoors (which is ok) then it will lose the extra hair from being in the heated house and not have as thick a coat for being outside during walks. These dogs can beneﬁt from a coat, especially older dogs. Dogs with arthritis or joint problems in general can beneﬁt from a warm coat on their joints in the cold weather. Dogs who have long hair may also appreciate having their hair taken back out of their eyes so hair bows or bands are useful for this. B e careful not to leave them

2KG BAGS

ONLY €6.00

Bird Seed Feeders in stock!

1st STOP

FOR PET FOOD

Bow-wow’s Know How Brought to you by www.BwamPets.com

by Kathleen Murray. Tel: 0863192247

WHAT are the best dressed dogs wearing this year? There are all kinds of bits and bobs for dogs to wear nowadays. Local pet shops and other shops also have doggie fashion items. There are fleecy coats, jumpers, raincoats, high viz jackets, hair accessories, and all kinds of things for dogs to wear. Some people think that this is all one big ridiculous gimmick and others can’t get enough of it. What does a dog think about it all? Dogs were born with a coat already, but what kind of a coat were they born with? Some dogs have very thick coats and would hate to have another coat on top of that one because they would ﬁnd it all too conﬁning and too hot. Other dogs

on Wild Bird Seed

MANY OTHER SPECIAL OFFERS IN STORE!

SPECIAL OFFER

Pet’s Corner

KITECAT BEEF

in for too long as anything restrictive can cause circulation problems and unnecessary pain or discomfort to your dog. It may be wiser to take your dog to a groomer and have the hair tidied up. In general these items are useful but some people go way over the top and buy all kinds of accessories that a dog would find deeply annoying or that the dog would be able to chew and cause problems for the dog. Think of your dog when you’re buying fashion items for it. It will not find them as exciting or comfortable as you might think. Make sure that everything fits well and that nothing is pulling on the dogs hair. Footwear is unnecessary and can be even dangerous for a dog to wear and dogs do not find footwear pleasing in any shape or form. Make sure that your dog is comfortable during walks because a walk is to be enjoyed. Happy shopping.

BOW-WOWS & MEOWS

Diabetes and your dog YOU may be surprised and disheartened if you learn that your dog has diabetes. But with proper care, your beloved dog can live a long and healthy life. Just like in humans, dogs develop type 1 diabetes. This form of the condition is marked by a lack of insulin, the hormone that keeps blood sugar in check. When an animal or human has diabetes, their muscles have trouble converting glucose into energy. An excess of glucose builds up in the blood, causing a state of hyperglycemia. If left untreated, this will develop into severe health problems. Diabetes can create many different symptoms in your dog. Often, diabetic dogs will show an excessive need for food and water, along with increased urination. Partly because of the increase in urination, diabetic dogs who have previously been housetrained may start to go to toilet inside again. If your dog is eating normally but still losing weight, this can also be a sign of diabetes. Another latestage symptom of diabetes in your dog may be lethargy or depressed. If you have witnessed these

symptoms in your dog, or have other reasons to believe your dog has developed diabetes, you should schedule an appointment with your vet immediately. Through medical tests, your vet will be able to determine whether diabetes is present. Diabetes is still the subject of investigation for veterinary science. Vets are not quite sure what causes the disease, although female dogs and obese dogs are at a higher risk. Diabetes is also more common in older dogs, beginning to develop at any time from 6 to 9 years of age. Treatment for diabetic dogs will vary widely depending on the size of your dog, other health conditions, and the severity of each individual case. In general, a combination of insulin together with a modiﬁed diet and exercise is enough to manage your dog’s blood sugar. Most cases of diabetes in dogs will require regular doses of insulin. Severe cases may require short hospital stays while glucose levels stabilise. Once your dog’s speciﬁc dose of insulin is determined, your vet will show you how to administer it at home. Current insulin deliv-

The Original & Still The Best Professional Pet Care Services

Does your dog FACT - Regular r walks help you need a walk dog remain ealthy! during the day?? h

We will collect and walk you yo your our d dog! og g! g! Daily routes in Letterkenny area

Other pet care services available including :Dog/Puppy Training, Pet Sitting/Boarding, Cat Care & Specialised Pet Taxi Vehicle For Transport

For more information contact Alan on 0861563347 www.BwamPets.com

Dog of the Week Browser This is Browser who is an 18 month old lab cross. Browser is still is a big puppy in many ways. He loves to play and will suit an active family. Browser found himself abandoned in the local dog pound as his ﬁrst family had no more time for him. Browser is learning very quickly while in our care and will need his new owners to continue his basic training. He now loves his long walks and is far better on a lead than when he came into us. With a little love and attention Browser will make a great pet and give loads of love to his new family. If you would like to meet him please call his foster mother Verionica on 0876145777 to arrange an appointment.

ery systems include pens, syringes and inhalers. Your vet will probably lay down strict dietary restrictions for your dog. They will regulate calorie intake based on your dog’s activity level and size. Though researchers are still working on the ideal diet for diabetics, high fi bre foods are usually recommended. Whatever your vet recommends, make sure you follow their plan closely. It’s important to keep your dog’s blood sugar at a healthy level. One of the best ways to do this is keeping your dog trim with daily exercise. If you cannot exercise your dog sufficiently, consider the use of our Dog Walking Service. We can walk and exercise your dog for you to help keep them physically fit and manage their blood sugar levels. This will help your dog become fitter and healthier and live a longer, happier life. Compiled by Bow-wows & Meows. For further information on Dog Walking or other Pet Care Services, please call us on 086 156 3347 or visit our website at www.BwamPets. com or find Bow-wows & Meows on Facebook.

letterkennypost 27

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Letterkenny One Act Drama Festival both sections. The Blue Riband award, the McCormack Perpetual Trophy, went to Athlone Little Theatre who also picked up Best Play Award with their production, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Land Much Like Oursâ&#x20AC;? by Rob Johnston; Best Actor Award, (Charles Doherty); Best Actress Award, (Anne Hoey); and Best Director Award, (Oliver Hegarty), in the Open section of the festival. Best Play Award in the Confined section went to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holy Maryâ&#x20AC;? by Eoin Colfer, performed by Glenamaddy Players, Co Galway. The Adjudicatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award went to Anna Flaherty, director of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holy Maryâ&#x20AC;? and Best Director Award in Confined section went to Ann C. Molloy, Glena maddy Players. Donal Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan received Best Actor in Consection for his portrayal of Bartley in J.M.

fined Syngeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Riders to the Sea by Gunpowder Pro ductions, Cork. Gunpowder Productions also won Best Ac " tress Award in this section, (Clodagh Whelan) as well as Best Technical Award in the festi$ $ # val. While the adjudicator was making his deliberations on the final night, the LMDG performed " # Antony Delapâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one act play, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Lone Rangerâ&#x20AC;? not competing in the competition. The Letterkenny One Act Drama Festival is ! one of the festivals in the Drama League of Ire &! $# % % land Circuit and the All Ireland Finals will take $# place this year in the Town Hall Theatre, Gal way, December 4-6. n Best Open Actor was Charles Doherty of The committee thank all their sponsors as ď&#x20AC;&#x2039;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;? Athlone Little receiving his awardď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201A; from $)# well as those who became â&#x20AC;&#x153;friends of the fes Theatre +,-. ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC; Trisha Jordin of Pramerica. (North West Newspix) tivalâ&#x20AC;?.

n Letterkenny One

Act Drama Festival Committee. Back row L_R, Antony Delap. Sean McCormack, Ann Flannery, Andy McGranaghan, (treasurer), Tom Byrne, (adjudicator). Front L-R Jean Curran, (Chairperson), Trisha Jordin, (Pramerica), Plunkett Ferry (secretary), Annette Cunningham.

NINE one act plays were performed by groups from all over the country at last weekendÂ&#x2019;s One Act Drama festival in An GrianĂĄn Theatre. Audiences were entertained to drama and comedy by these nine groups competing in both Confined and Open sections. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adjudicator was Tom Byrne who had a difficult task in choosing the winners in

ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x17E;ď&#x20AC;&#x;ď&#x20AC;&#x153;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2022;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x2018;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030;ď&#x20AC;&#x2014;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C;ď&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ď&#x20AC;Ąď&#x20AC;? ď&#x20AC;&#x;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2022;ď&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ď&#x20AC;&#x161;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;

$# $ $

ď&#x20AC;˘ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2013;ď&#x20AC;&#x203A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ď&#x20AC;&#x153;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x17E;

## # #

ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x160; ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;

# "

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

OPEN SAT 10-5 SUN 3-5

with The Postal Store + Send your Christmas parcels at Service worldwide + Great prices & Gre + We deliver to Ireland, UK &

GIFT WRAPPING SERVICE 4 SIM PLE STE PS

y Wr ap pin g Pa pe r ST EP 1 - Bu y a car d ST EP 2 - Bu nd it ST EP 3 - Pa ck ag e it ST EP 4 - Se

T: 074 911 4805 t E:INFO@THEPOSTALSTORE.IE t WWW.THEPOSTALSTORE.IE t UNIT 11A LETTERKENNY RETAIL PARK t MOB: 085 8078488 t

K STOVE SUPERSER

CHEAPEST AROUND!

$'*

' % (

DEALS OF THE $ WEEK $

(

$ & GORTLEE, LETTERKENNY, CO. DONEGAL

$ $ !"# "" $%# &"'

'(% !"# "" $%# )$" '(% &"'

TEL: 074 91 26276 | MOB: 087 252 6089

Only â&#x201A;Ź65

+,-.

W NE

## # # 20 WATT L.E.D. 18X12 ! FLOODLIGHT RECHARGEABLE &! $# AND MAINS OPERATED

TARPAULINS

Only â&#x201A;Ź25

ď&#x20AC;&#x2039;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;? ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;

ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201A; ď&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;

$)#

ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x160; ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;

' %

TRAILOR LOADS $ OF LOGS (

(

LARGE SACKS OF LOGS

â&#x201A;Ź145

!"# "" $%# &"' â&#x201A;Ź65

DELIVERED '(% !"# "" $%# )$" '(% &"'

LOCAL

TRIPLE FILTER SYSTEM

Only

â&#x201A;Ź79.00

â&#x201A;Ź75.00 SMART HOLDER FOR LOGS

LINED WOVEN BASKETS ON WHEELS

SAFETY FIRST!

Only â&#x201A;Ź105

5 PIECE 23â&#x20AC;? "

GALVANISED ASH # "SET COMPANION CARRIERS $'* ## $ # BACK IN STOCK! Only â&#x201A;Ź19.95

Only

VARIOUS SIZES

GAS HEATERS

THE NEW ASH VAC

WET SUITS

MAKITA 18V DRILL SETS

$ 8 #JU 4FU

1 PIECE & 2 PIECE IN STOCK t #SFBUIFBCMF t 5PQ 2VBMJUZ

Only â&#x201A;Ź225

LARGE FUEL DEAL

GENERATOR OFFER

1 Coal 2 Logs 2 Briquettes 1 Firelighter 1 Kindling

(DELIVERED LOCAL)

GREAT GIFT IDEA!

â&#x201A;Ź30

Limited Stock 3.5kva AV Built in 2 Year warranty

Only â&#x201A;Ź475

28 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

letterkennypost 29

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Hillsborough Farm Turkeys Ramelton

Donegalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ONLY Registered Free Range Turkey Farm

Rearing Happy Healthy Turkeys Since 1963

Now Taking Christmas Orders for Traditional Free Range Bronze & White Turkeys Free Range Registration No: BMC/E/1

r 1VSQPTF CVJMU 5VSLFZ 1SPDFTTJOH 'BDJMJUZ r 'PPE #VTJOFTT 3FH /P %- r #VZ -PDBM /P $BSCPO 'PPUQSJOU

To Order Call: Ronnie - 086 0571422 Gillian - 087 7931599 Family Farm - 07491 52464 gillianaiken@yahoo.co.uk

Oven Ready Make this Christmas Special Treat your Family to the best with a Hillsborough Farm Turkey

30 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

YOUR COUNCIL

Your Council ● Your Services Council Energy Team Working to Reduce Energy Use

onegal County Council is a large organisation and like all ‘householders’, conscious of the ever increasing energy costs on all its, operations, ofﬁces and properties and services. It, along with all public bodies, has to comply with the National Energy Efﬁciency Action Plan which stipulates that all public bodies need to reduce their energy use by 33% by 2020. The Council spends approximately €4.2 million on energy each year.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is supporting Donegal County Council’s recently established Energy Team, headed up by John Mc Laughlin, Director of Roads and Housing Capital, to develop an Energy Management System and this will be in place by June of next year and it is hoped that this will lead to an energy management ISO 50001 accreditation for Donegal County Council. An Energy Management System (EnMS) is a systematic process for continually improving energy performance. Establishing an EnMS requires the Council to: • Develop and implement an Energy Policy • Identify the Council’s Signiﬁcant Energy Users • Set energy objectives and meas-

Key facts t The ‘National Energy Efficiency Action Plan’ stipulates that Ireland has maintained its commitment to a 20% energy savings target in 2020 and to achieving a 33% reduction in public sector energy use from 20092020. t The international ISO 50001 standard insists that organisations use an energy management system (EnMS) to establish the policies and procedures to systematically track, analyse, and improve energy efficiency

urable targets, • Implement and operate programmes to meet these objectives and targets • Check and take corrective action as required • Review the system continually and improve where possible. The main beneﬁts of an EnMS for

Donegal County Council are that it: • Embeds best-practice energy management in its day-to-day operations • Improves the Council’s performance and productivity • Reduces energy costs • Ensures that the Council maintain a process of continual improvement

• Ensures that Senior Managers and elected Members commit to energy efﬁciency and that all staff play a role in the process • Helps the Council to comply with its energy-efﬁciency and emissionreduction obligations • Standardises Council processes so that improvements are sustained over time.

letterkennypost 31

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Hansel and Gretel performance this weekend THE North West Opera are now in the ﬁnal week of intensive rehearsals for their production of composer Humperdinck’s masterwork Hansel & Gretel, to be performed at the An Grianan Theatre, Letterkenny this Friday and Saturday. The core of the production is lead by professional opera singers, soprano Ann Jennings playing the Witch and Mother, soprano Diana Bryan (Gretel) and mezzo– soprano Anna-Louise Costello (Hansel). They are guided under the expert baton of Conductor Anton Zapf who also leads an orchestra of professional musicians who have come to

The Crimson Sky 2015

Donegal speciﬁ cally to perform the work. Community involvement comes by way of the excellently trained North West Opera Chorus and Children’s Chorus, and ‘en pointe’ ballet dancers from the Zona Dance Company. The production promises to be a colourful feast of music, drama, comedy and dance. Humperdinck’s score is beautiful and entertaining, enjoyed by adults and children alike. To follow the preparations up to the show follow North West Opera Ireland on Facebook and Twitter. Tickets are available from An Grianan Box Ofﬁce Tel: 074 912 0777.

Tipsy Nail Bar grand opening

by Margaret Rose Doherty The Hills lift up my eyes, I see the sunset, a most beautiful picture set in the sky. The warm rays don’t fade away. The crimson colour forever will not grow dim. A glimse of the sun, a vision, a reﬂection so far away, and in sight lingers. I lift my eyes, to a blazing crimson sky, the sunsets but reappear, to brighten our lives, from this very distant sky. The dust falling slowly, nurtering the earth to sleep, peeps into darkness and to peace. The Dawn awake, starring all from their sleep, the dawns ﬁrst light of day lights up the earth, but nothing can compare, with the sun going down, over the hills that lifts my eyes to another dimension, that is the crimson sky.

■ Sharon pictured with her former boss and good friend Aoibheann Walsh and her boyfriend Neil Barrett.

■ Sharon with Lisa and Paul Maguire.

■ Sharon and her godmother Mary McGinley.

■ Sharon with Denise, Lucie and Lauren Sheridan.

■ Sharon with parents Kathleen and Henry Callaghan

■ Sharon with her boyfriend Mark Maguire.

32 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

Harvey’s Point best rated hotel in Ireland – Trivago HARVEY’S Point Hotel has been named No1 Hotel in Ireland in the inaugural trivago Top Hotel Awards. Hotel search website trivago.ie employed aggregated online user ratings in order to recognise the best-rated hotels, both regionally and nationally. With a rating of 96.4%, Harvey’s Point in Lough Eske, achieved the highest score in Ulster and in Ireland. Celebrating with the team at Harvey’s Point, hotelier Deirdre Mc Glone said: ‘Our entire focus over the past 26 years has been on creating memorable guest experiences and in exceeding the expectations of all who stay with us. It is our goal to offer world-class hotel-keeping blended with genuine Irish hospitality. Being named as number one hotel in Ireland reﬂects the professionalism and dedication of all our team in making every guest feel at home and yet in the lap of luxury. We thank everyone who submitted a review and we look forward to extending a warm Donegal welcome to all our discerning guests, past and future. According to David Lintott, trivago’s UK and Ireland Public Relations manager:

■ Harvey’s Point

Join TV Presenter & Author

Lorraine Keane

for a night of Fashion, Beauty, Tapas and Wine

‘The trivago Top Hotel Awards aim to judge all accommodation fairly, whether they are a guest house in Dingle, a B&B in Ballybunion or a luxury hotel in Donegal’. The trivago award is the most recent in a long list of honours won by Harvey’s Point Hotel. They include the AA Hotel of the Year, Best Irish Carvery, Hotel Wedding Venue of the Year, Hotel and Catering Review Gold Medal, Best Destination Hotel and Trip Advisor No 1 Hotel in Ireland 2013, 2014 & 2015. With a rating of 96.44, Harvey’s Point in Donegal Town is the bestrated hotel in both Ulster and the whole of Ireland this year at the inaugural trivago.ie Top Hotel Awards for 2015. With two top-rated hotels in Ulster (Harvey’s Point and Solis Lough Eske Castle & Spa), Donegal Town has the most hotels from Ireland in the list. Radisson Blue Farnham Estate of Cavan also features, though the list is largely dominated by hotels from Northern Ireland. Therefore with two hotels in the list, Co. Donegal is the Irish county with the most entries in top 20 and Co. Cavan has one.

7-10pm Thursday, 3rd December, 2015 Harveys Point Hotel, Donegal Ph: 074 9722208 Meet the Designers!

The night will include;

Fashion Show featuring some of Lorraine’s favourite Fashion Designers and local Boutiques, Hair & Make Up demonstrations plus Beauty & Skincare Advice from Irelands top professionals.

Tickets €45 available from Harvey's Point Hotel, Lough Eske, Donegal. Ticket Price includes glass of wine and tapas, Goody Bag, Fashion Show, Demonstrations/Talks Spot Prizes and Free Draw as well as a Pop-up Shop with exclusive discounts available on the night!

Raffle for local charity!

letterkennypost 33

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

New premises – same great service ONE of Letterkenny’s leading travel agents has moved premises. Champions Travel is delighted to announce that they have moved to bigger business premises, located in Portland House on the Port Road. They will be holding an ofﬁcial opening and fun day this Saturday, November 21 from 12-3pm. Activities on the day include a penalty shoot

competition, Santa, Premier League and Champions League Trophy, guest appearances from Finn Harps Promotion heroes BJ Banda, Ciaran Gallagher and Tony McNamee. There will be a free prize draw and light refreshments also served. Champions Travel Christmas Club is now open. €50pp secures any package and the remaining balance can be paid in instalments. Gift Vouchers are also available to purchase. Champions Travel is Irelands leading sports travel company. They offer a wide range of top quality Soccer Breaks to Europe’s top football teams including Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus. They also offer a range of other sports packages including rugby, tennis, NFL and basketball. Champions Travel aim to provide the highest standard of customer service to all our clients. So whether you are booking a once in a lifetime event or indeed are going to be a repeat client, they are sure we will be able to meet your needs and look forward to being of service to you. Customer satisfaction and value for money is our top priority.

34 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS

FATHOM exhibition opening at the RCC

n Guests pictured at the opening.

PHOTOS: Clive Wasson

n Marie Barrett with Dive North Divers, Brian Harkin, Geff Miller, Sean Tyre, John Paul Fitzpatrick and Gerry Mooney.

n At the opening of FATHOM a collaborative project by artist Marie Barrett with diver/filmmaker Geoff Mill and Dive North divers based in Inishowen are from left John Gallagher, Hilda Lavelle, Michel O’Boyle, Ailish O’Boyle, Brian Lavelle, Charlie Moore and Terry Farrell.

n Pictured at the opening are Ailbhe Murphy, Director Create, Jacqueline Lynch and Marie Barrett, Artist.

n At the opening of FATHOM a collaborative project by artist Marie Barrett with diver/filmmaker Geoff Mill and Dive North divers based in Inishowen are from left Marie Barrett, Artist, Shaun Hannigan, Director RCC, Ailbhe Murphy, Director Create, Traolach O’Fionnan. Arts Officer, Donegal County Council and Eilish Lavelle,

Donegal success at food awards THE work of Donegal Food Coast to enhance the county’s reputation as a food destination, paid dividends again recently when five national prizes returned to the county from the prestigious Blas na hEireann – Irish Food Awards. The Whole Green Juice Company from Ramelton brought back a bronze, as did the Green Pastures in Convoy, who won a bronze national award for their Yeats Country Greek Style

Yogurt. In total thirteen Donegal products made it to the finals in Kerry, for a competition that saw over 2,500 products entered into what is regarded as biggest contest for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland. That was almost double the number of Donegal products in the final from last year and Eve Anne McCarron, Executive with The Food Coast – Donegal’s Good Food Initiative, said that was indicative

of the progress being made. “We had five national awards, two regional award winners and 13 products that made it to the finalist stage which is deemed a major achievement in its own right,” she said. Ms McCarron added: “The Donegal Food Strategy recognises the huge potential for food in Donegal and we want to work with people with a commitment to Donegal food to create opportunities for success.”

Fund Raising Event

A great opportunity to gather and come together.

n Finalists from Donegal that made it through to the national finals in Kerry pictured with their products.

letterkennypost 35

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Serving the Letterkenny Community for 30 years

Wednesday November 25th in our Oldtown branch

Serving the Letterkenny Community for 30 years

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 27TH Wednesday November 25th ourOLDTOWN Oldtown branch IN in OUR BRANCH

Thalgo Skincare Specialist in-store from 10am to 4pm BOOK NOW - Call 074 91 2136 to get a FREE consultation and a FREE Mini-facial or Hand & Nail Treatment

Thalgo Skincare Specialist in-store from 10am to 4pm

BOOK NOW - Call 074 91 2136 to get 074 9121369 a FREE consultation and a FREE Mini-facial or Hand & Nail Treatment

FREE GIFT

with every purchase

FREE GIFT

with every purchase

Selected Skincare products Selected www.mcfaddenspharmacy.com

facebook for daily offers

LOTS MORE OFFERS IN-STORE & ONLINE

Skincare products www.mcfaddenspharmacy.com

facebook for daily offers

LOTS MORE OFFERS IN-STOREOldtown & ONLINE Letterkenny Shopping Centre Road, Letterkenny Tel: 074 91 22304 Tel: 074 91 21369 Open 7 days Open 6 days

36 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

INTERIORS

Riverside Retail Park, Neil T Blaney Road, Letterkenny tel: 00353 74 9167858 fax: 00353 74 9320727 email: info@fccurtaincompany.com

Shop on-line at

Curtains • Blinds • Upholstery • Wallpaper

www.fccurtaincompany.com

Inside Story by Sheena Quigley of the Fabric Centre WE swore we would never go their again. Never ever, ever, ever would they cross the threshold of our homes again. We worked hard to remove them from our interior landscape and we swore blind they would never come back but yet again that ﬁckle fashion wheel has turned and the object of our dislike has once more become the object of our desire. What is this latest fashion out cast to make a come back I hear you ask? The Dado rail of course!! Yes I ﬁnd it hard to believe myself but just like wallpaper that we painstakingly removed from our walls and swore it would never return, the dado rail is sneaking its way back into our affections once more. With the rise of vintage decorating and the fashion harping back to a more classic style, so have our tastes for all things period and rich. With this new desire for a rich classic interior we are all looking for ways to add character, interest and architectural details to our homes. Gone are the days of large expanses of boring, plain cream walls, we now want features, details and sense of history. If you are not convinced that dado rails this time round are little bit different from last time. We are not talking about yards and yards of stained

dark wood or worse the dreaded pine. This year, dado rails are elegant cream affairs which are more understated and bright, just giving shape and form to your plain walls. Using a dado rail in this way gives a nod to the recent trend for wall panelling but with a much lower price tag. Dado rails,instead of restricting you actually give you an abundance of more options. You can choose to paint them to blend in with the rest of your wall, you can paint the wall different color on the top and on the bottom, you can combine them with wallpaper. You can wallpaper on the

top or bottom only, wallpaper on both the top and bottom or even use two different papers. The choices go on and on. As a rule when choosing where to put the darker color or more heavily patterned paper, above or below the dado rail, look at how much light the space has. If it is a dark space keep the deeper colour or pattern to the bottom, to create an illusion of more light and if it is a bright space you can afford a deeper color or pattern on the top. Dado rails are actually great for letting you be brave with color as you don’t have to paint the whole wall and it is a great new twist on painting a single accent wall. At The Fabric Centre we have the perfect wallpaper to put with your new dado rail, as well as beautiful curtains, blinds and shutters to ﬁnish your new scheme. Check us out on face book for your special treat. (The Fabric Centre, River Side Retail Park, Neil T Blaney Road, Letterkenny, Tel:074 9167858, www.fcinteriors. com)

Foyle International prospects /’pros-pĕkts/ (noun) Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is still booming, and there are countless opportunities for bright, energetic graduates. Foyle International paves the way for you to earn an attractive salary teaching English at home or in exotic locations around the globe. Bronagh’s office doesn’t have air conditioning, so she catches up on her paperwork at a beach café overlooking the ocean. So far today, she’s sung a Snow Patrol song with teenagers, played Guess Who with ten-year-olds, and debated with local businessmen whether taxpayers should have paid for Prince William’s wedding. “At last, I’m putting my degree to good use!” she thinks. Last year, like thousands of other recent graduates, Bronagh was getting more and more disheartened at the lack of graduate opportunities in Northern Ireland. After years of developing ‘transferable skills’ on her business degree, there weren’t any jobs to transfer them to! That’s why she took a TEFL course at Foyle International. In just four weeks, she had an internationally recognized teaching qualification, and quickly found work at a school in Morocco. “It did wonders for my selfesteem, to be in a job where I felt respected and I could use my brain,” she says. “And it was great to be in a sunnier climate and have some money in the bank!” But why take the TEFL

course in the first place? Surely if you can speak English, you can teach it? Bronagh laughs, “I thought that too! But you really have to know your subject, English, to describe grammar and the like. And then you need to know how to teach, to plan a lesson with all the different stages and techniques. There’s more to it than just speaking English.” An accredited qualiﬁcation can cost more, but Bronagh explains why she paid that bit extra. “It’s opened doors to the best schools, with better money and conditions, teaching government ministers and company executives as well as children and teenagers. I’ve been lucky and had my pick of jobs.” But doesn’t she miss the cold rainy days and her old life? “I’ll go home one day. I always keep an eye out for jobs back home. Employers deﬁnitely look favourably on experience abroad, and teaching skills, like presentations for instance, are very useful in other careers.” And there’s something else keeping Bronagh in Casablanca – a Moroccan husband. “That wasn’t the original plan,

but there you go! But I refuse to teach him English at home – that wouldn’t be conducive to a happy marriage!” According to Bronagh, TEFL romances are quite common, with all those balmy evenings spent lesson planning in exotic locations. Foyle International has offered a range of TEFL courses over the past decade, with successful participants now teaching in Derry and Dubai, Belfast and Brazil, Moville and of course Morocco. “The expertise of the teachers and the authenticity of training in a bustling language school alongside international students was ideal preparation,” says Bronagh. This year, Foyle offers its first one-month CELTA courses, the benchmark in TEFL qualiﬁcations, validated by the prestigious University of Cambridge. Any ﬁnal advice from Bronagh? “It’s a challenging job, but so rewarding. The most essential qualities are energy, enthusiasm and a friendly nature.” The Moroccan husband, she assures me, is optional. By Chris Mac Bruithin Contact Foyle International: T: 02871 371535 / W: www. foyle.eu / E: info@foyle.eu

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

letterkennypost 37

‘LIKE’ OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

38 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Old Town Road Letterkenny meAalltoisurfbulelly 074 912 6119

FOR A FRIENDLY WELCOME & GREAT VALUE

Now taking orders for Noone’s Turkeys and our own Beef, Lamb and Pork for Christmas

tracea

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING BASKET

Win Win Win €1,000 reasons to shop local this Christmas TEN businesses in Letterkenny have come together to offer one lucky Letterkenny Post reader a fantastic €1,000 shopping spree this Christmas. Helping to spread the cost of Christmas and to spread some festive cheer to Letterkenny this festive season each of the 10 businesses listed advertised here are giving one lucky reader a €100 voucher to spend in each store. All you have to do to win

ETTER

this fantastic €1,000 spending spree is to answer the two questions printed in the Letterkenny Post each week in the run up to Christmas. The competition will run for four weeks, so you need to save your copy of the Letterkenny Post each week and send the eight answers to the questions at the end of the four weeks. The answers are found in the advertisements contained

on the Christmas shopping basket feature. The last two questions will be printed on December 10 and the lucky winner will be announced in the Letterkenny Post on December 17, in time for Christmas. Send your four completed question slips marked: Christmas Basket Competition to The Editor, Letterkenny Post, River House Bonagee, Letterkenny.

ENNY

PETS

For all your pets needs! Unit 4, Glencar Retail Park, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

T: 074 91 27397

FG<E@E> ?FLIJ ● DFE (($. ● KL<J $ J8K 0$. ● :CFJ<; JLE;8P Specialist Advice on Dog Nutrition & Advice on Dog Training

Unit 4, Glencar Retail Park, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

letterkennypost 39

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

36 Lower Main Street, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

Tel: 074 91 24133 Email: ypepper@indigo.ie www.yellowpepperrestaurant.com

Afternoon Christmas Value Menu Two Courses €16.50 | Three Courses €20.00

Evening Christmas Menu - 4 Courses €29.50 Evening A la Carte Open Daily for Lunches, Snacks & Tapas

Click on our website to buy vouchers online www.yellowpepperrestaurant.com

Yellow Pepper Gift Vouchers.. The Ideal Christmas gift! John Crossan Business Pk., Bonagee, Letterkenny

t. 074 912 6728

Christmas questions - Week 1 • What is included in the Shandon Spas thermal suite session package for €59? Answer: .............................................................................. • What does National Fuels have on oﬀer for €15?

LETTERKENNY

e: lkbikes@gmail.com

Christmas Club Now Open Small deposit secures ANY item!

LARGE RANGE OF BIKES, GO-KARTS & ACCESSORIES

FREE ASSEMBLY &

FREE STORAGE UP UNTIL 23rd DEC

Answer: ..............................................................................

ALL DAY BREAKFAST

SPECIAL WINTER OFFER

TEL: 074 91 56110 | OPEN MONDAY TO SUNDAY

11.34KG GAS

7 €2

(GRADE A FUEL HIGH HEAT OUTPUT)

CALCO 40KG

HI-GLO SMOKLESS EGGS 40KG

€1 5

GREAT MENU OF TAKE AWAY FOOD & HOT LUNCHES

€1 3

NEWTOWNCUNNINGHAM, BALLYSHANNON, RAMELTON & DRUMKEEN

SMOKELESS MAXI HEAT 40KG

Unit 6 Larkin Retail Park, Pearse Road, Letterkenny

€1 6

(VALID UNTIL 19TH DEC)

40 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

ﬁx

FASHION

€39.95 €99

€59.95

€59.95 €59.95 €95

letterkennypost 41

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FASHION

ﬁx

eCOMMERCE WEBSITE WINNER 2015

€39.95

€90

€39.95

Party Party PERFECT PERFECT

Sparkle seasonparty party season thethe perfect party party Sparkle thisthis season seasonwith with perfect dress available instore & online dress available instore & online

Tel: 00353 74 9131217 | Email: info@mcelhinneys.com €59.95

WWW.MCELHINNEYS.COM Tel: 00353 74 9131217 | Email: info@mcelhinneys.com FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY FREE RETURNS*

WWW.MCELHINNEYS.COM

Insta

42 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FASHION

SOCIAL

SHOWBIZ

Christmas sparkles at Promise! ‘LET’S get the party Started’ was the theme in Promise Boutique last Friday evening from 6-8pm Promise Boutique at McElhinneys launched their sparkly dresses just in time for Christmas modelled by the lovely Lara Duffy, Leah Cleary and Leona Gallen staff of the store. If you’re looking for

that little sparkly number ‘Promise’ will deliver. . Beneﬁt ladies demonstrated different tips and tricks on how to achieve the perfect party makeup looks. There was free goodie bags given out on the night and a chance for one lucky customer to win their party outﬁt . . . and it wasn’t me!.

letterkennypost 43

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Entertainment •

faces and places • cinema • out and about •

Alban Berg’s ‘Lulu’ to be screened live at Century Cinemas LULU is opera’s femme fatale Set in Vienna, Paris and Lon- a sexually irresistible woman don, the opera’s high octane who destroys the lives of eve- plot features murder, blackryone around her. mail, suicide, and ultimately Visual artist William Ken- tragedy for Lulu. In this new tridge has devised a brand production, director William new production of Alban Kentridge incorporates his Berg’s opera for the Met which own illustrations as video has been described as ‘spell- projections and animations, binding’ by The Observer and forming a vivid monochrome ‘masterful’ by The New York backdrop to the drama unTimes. folding on stage. Lulu will be screened live in Composer Alban Berg’s Century Cinemas, Letterkenny score employs the innovative on Saturday, 21st November techniques pioneered by his at 5.30pm. German soprano teacher Arnold Schoenberg Marlis Petersen, who has sung but in a keenly dramatic way the title role to great acclaim that makes it accessible to all Friday Biddiekinds of audiences. around the 25th world Anne and retires the part after these Met perJoining Marlis Petersen in Saturday 26th Virgil the formances, leads the cast. cast will be Susan Graham, One of the 27th most Alex important Sunday Blacka singer well known to Met stage works of the 20th cen- Live in HD audiences as the tury, Lulu is the drama of a vivacious backstage host of young who sexually many Met opera broadcasts. Raidwoman The Train Jackpot €350 and emotionally dominates a Susan Graham has appeared wide range of willing victims, in 18 different operas at the both male and female. Met, and now adds a new role

Lower Main Street, Letterkenny Tel: 074 91 23100 Fax: 074 91 09862 Email: info@stationhouseletterkenny.com

Saturday 21st - Virgil Sunday 22nd - Anne Biddie

Raid the Train €550

KENNY LETTER BINGO ROVERS ursday every Th @ 8.30 pm

Mid Week Specials Available On Bouncy Castles HIRE FOR PARTIES Rodeo * DJ’s * Reinde er No * Karaoke * Availab w le! * Bouncy Castles * * Rodeo Bull Hire * * Surf Simulator * * 50 foot * Obstacle Course

Call Stephen today on 087 6171696 Check out our new Website

www.funkymonkeyireland.com or ﬁnd us on facebook!

to her company repertory as the Countess Geschwitz, one of Lulu’s most devoted admirers. The men around them include American tenor Daniel Brenna in his Met debut as Alwa; Johan Reuter as Dr. Schön and Jack the Ripper; Paul Groves as the Painter and African Prince; and Franz Grundheber as Schigolch. Welsh National Opera music director Lothar Koenigs leads the performance. Irish audiences from Tralee to Letterkenny will have the opportunity to see this new production live from New

York to their local venue on Saturday 21 November, and tickets are on sale nationwide and in Letterkenny through www.centurycinemas.ie.

Production Conductor: James Levine Production: William Kentridge Co-Director: Luc De Wit Projection Designer: Catherine Meyburgh Set Designer: Sabine Theunissen Costume Designer: Greta Goiris Lighting Designer: Urs Schönebaum

44 letterkennypost

CINEMA

filmreview By Rory Mooney

Director: Francis Lawrence Starring: Jennifer Lawrence Josh Hutcherson Liam Hemsworth Genre: Adventure Sci-Fi Run Time: 137 minutes Rating: 12A Release Date: November 19

Living

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2 Realizing the stakes are no longer just for survival, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) teams up with her closest friends, including Peeta (Josh Hutcherson), Gale (Liam Hemsworth) and Finnick for the ultimate mission. Together, they leave District 13 to liberate the citizens of war-torn Panem and assassinate President Snow, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obsessed with destroying Katniss. What lies ahead are mortal traps, dangerous enemies and moral choices that will ultimately determine the future of millions. The blockbuster Hunger Games franchise has taken audiences by storm around the world, grossing more than $2.2 billion at the global box ofďŹ ce.

letterkennypost 45

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

TRAVEL

Home & Away with Robert Walshe

www.robertwalshe.com

Weekend Hotspot – Malone Lodge Belfast

Described by National Geographic Traveller Magazine as an “unspoilt treasure” Belfast is drawing crowds from everywhere these days. Wherever you look, new developments are changing the city’s landscape, from the foreshore area to the revived city centre. “Titanic” features numerous interactive galleries across 12,000 square metres of ﬂoor space all telling the story of the construction and doomed maiden voyage of the super ship. The interpretation also explores

the history of ship making at Harland & Wolff proving remarkably popular since its opening, attracting more than 500,000 visitors in just six months. www.titanicbelfast.com On the grounds of Queens University are the impressive gardens of Belfast Botanical. Their most notable feature being the Victorian-era Palm House conservatory; the curved iron and glass dome was an architectural achievement well ahead of its time - soon copied by every respectable garden in the old British Empire. The design of the Palm House allows the growth of exotic plants reminding you

■ Knife & Fork at The Malone Lodge. RIGHT: Malone Lodge GM Terri Cassidy from Co Fermanagh.

of warm tropical lands far away. The other great Victorian project to have made an imprint on the city is St. George’s Market. Underneath its roof, all manner of fresh farm foods and exotic delicacies are displayed. The Friday Variety Market is known for their ﬁsh selection while Saturday’s Food and Craft event brings locally produced foods to eager buyers including pork from Cookstown and Armagh beef. Located below Cavehill Mountains is Belfast Zoo - an asylum for some of the most endangered species in the world. Additionally, the zoo has a walkthrough tropical rainforest. In line with the recent drive towards redeveloping the city centre. Victoria Square has become the leading shopping destination with four ﬂoors of retail, entertainment and dining. For culture vultures the Lyric theatre founded by local artists in the 1950’s has been revived thanks to efforts of famous Northern Ireland citizens- Liam Neeson and Kenneth Branagh. Afterwards pop down to the Crown Bar a Victorian gin salon operated by the National Trust.

(074) 9131018 Belfast’s restaurant scene has come of age in recent years offering fine dining and exciting mid-level experiences. Niall McKenna’s James Street South , Restaurant Michael Deane & new arrival Ox all fly the flag at the higher end but remember to book your table well in advance. Northern Ireland has also made massive strides forward when it comes ■ Christmas Mar to small artisan prokets Belfast Ci ty Hall ducers including Abernethy butter, used by Heston Blumenthal ground car park and suite for Mar- civil marriage ceremonies. at the Fat Duck and by Mar cus Wareing at the Berkeley. With its accommodation The cities hotel scene is also split into hotel rooms and advancing and the recently apartments, the renovations refurbished Malone Lodge will result in 120 bedrooms, Hotel & Apartments in the including 78 hotel beds, and popular Queen’s Area of 52 apartment bedrooms. South Belfast, near the iconic “Knife and Fork” the restauUniversity is ideally situated. rant experience at Malone This four star property sur- Lodge is a hidden gem. The rounded by chic boutiques service is impeccable; the and cafes at nearby Lisburn food expertly presented and Road is targeting the cor- all enhanced by an impresporate, wedding and tour- sive value for money wine ist market with the addition list. Malone Lodge Hotel is of an executive wing, a new offering their “ultimate indul90-seater restaurant, under- gence “experience from £155

www.keeshotel.ie

per night including breakfast. Waiting in your room on arrival you will ﬁnd a Bottle of Bubbly chilling served with chocolate dipped strawberries followed later by a 4-course evening meal for 2 at “Knife and Fork “restaurant. www.malonelodgehotelbelfast.com Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Q Radio Network and Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland. www.robertwalshe.com

46 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Saturday Supper Club @ oasis bar 2 people, 2 courses

and a bottle of wine

for

â&#x201A;Ź50

(including steak)

Live music every Saturday night

See facebook for sample menu

Now taking bookings for

Christmas Parties Book contact (074) 912 4455

or via www.oasisbar.ie

letterkennypost 47

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

COOKERY

Home Cooking

By Barbara Collins

Chicken and Cashew Nuts

This is a classic from the Chinese takeaway. I got it from a book called Chinatowns by Jean-Francois Mallet. The important thing is to marinate it for two hours. This will feed four people. It’s served with plain boiled or fried rice. It tastes better than going to the takeaway, I promise! Mix the chicken, garlic, onion, cornflour and soy sauce in a bowl and leave to marinate at room temperature for two hours.

Ingredients eled and 2 garlic cloves, pe d pe op ch d 1 onion, peeled an chopped , diced 4 chicken breasts rch sta rn 2 tsp co 6 tbsp soy sauce e l (or us 2 tbsp peanut oi l) oi e bl ta ge ve 150g cashew nuts

About twenty minutes before serving, heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over a high heat. Add the cashews and stir fry for a few minutes. Then add the chicken and marinade and cook for another ten minutes. Once the chicken is cooked, stir and turn off the heat. I like to garnish this with shredded spring onion. Try adding some celery to boost your veg intake

Contact Barbara:- twitter @thegoodchinaset | E: collib40@googlemail.com | T: 087 9535339

C o n f e r e n c e HOTELS & Leisure Centre CLANREE

CHRISTMAS 2015

Enjoy a 4 Course feast, good wines, cool cocktails, high spirits and the best fun of the season!A complimentary glass of bubbly awaits you in the lobby with the party starting lo in McGettigan’s Bar from 7pm. Everyone dines together at 8pm in the Shellbridge Suite.

4 5 / $ /, Ryan & His Band 3Derek Friday 11th December

Party Night

€45pp

Thurs 17th Dec

Mike Denver & His Band

Party Night

€39pp

Saturday 12th December

Beatles for Sale Tribute Act Party Night

€39pp

FRI 18th Dec

SAT 19th Dec

The

Nathan Carter Cufflinks Band & Christmas DJ 4 5 Party Night / $ 3/, €45pp

Party Night

€35pp

Why worry about taxis, arranging lifts or picking the designated driver. Stay the night! Our special accommodation rate is €45 per person B&B. Derry Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal T. +353 (0) 749124369 E. info@clanreehotel.com | www.clanreehotel.com

48 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

LEARN TO DRAW

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

BEAUTY

Magee’s Beauty product of the week

Living

THIS week’s Beauty product of the Week is Lancome Absolue Yeux. Absolue Eye Premium Replenishing and Rejuvenating Cream, containing patented Pro-Xylane, helps restore essential moisture in the skin’s surface, replenishing the eye contour to improve ﬁrmness and luminosity. The look of the eye contour is visibly rejuvenated.

letterkenny letterkennypost 49

Blow Dry: Short Med Long Cut, Blow Dry

from €10 from €12 from €15 from €22

Colours: • Root Touch Up

(inc cut & blow dry) from €40.00

• T bar

(inc cut & blow dry) from €50.00

The Results The eye contour appears smoother and more luminous. The eye area feels intensely moisturized, eyes look brightened. Within four weeks, see ﬁne lines and wrinkles visibly reduced, feel ﬁrmer skin. The eye area looks visibly rejuvenated. Lancome Absolue Yex is available from Magee’s Pharmacy, Letterkenny at €96.00.

Opening hours :

Mon - Wed 9.30 am - 6.00pm Thurs & Friday 9.30 am - 8.00 pm Saturday 9.00 am - 5.00pm

Gift Vouchers and Gift Sets available. The ideal Christmas Gift

• 1/2 head highlights

(inc cut & blow dry) from €60.00

• Full head highlights

(inc cut & blow dry) from €80.00

Hair Design

SPECIAL OFFERS Tues / Wed & Thurs Only - Blow Dry €10 10% Off All Colours & Highlights 10% Students Discount when Student ID shown Market Square, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Proprietor Joan Frize

Tel: (074) 91 27777

Saffron

Gel Extensions, HD Brows &

Hair and Beauty

Individual lashes .......... €60

Threading & Make up Specialist

Hair, Makeup, lashed, Gel Paint & Spray Tan .. €70

Midweek Offers - Tuesday & Wednesday

1/2 Set Semi-permanent lashes ............................ €30

Gel Polish, Mink Lashes ..........................€40 Gel Polish - Hand & Toes .......................€30

lashes ............................ €60

Demalogica Mini Facial & Gel Polish ... €40 Demalogica Mini Facial & Blow Dry ..... €27

White 2 Brown Tanning

€75

Offers available until Jan.

Hair, Makeup & Lashes

€50

O’Boyce’s Corner, Station Roundabout, Letterkenny Free Customer parking to rear of building

bio surface peel

...ﬁnd us

Tel: 074 91 23006

Saffron Hair and Beauty Lounge at The Mount Errigal

Special Offers

Jg\ N K<< Z`X ?@K K? c @e kif <E@ [lZ E> kfi p f ]]\ ij

Full Set Semi-permanent

Waxing - 1/2 leg, Underarm, Bikini ....... €20

ONLY SALON IN TOWN OFFERING

KJ N E< D<E C< 8K @C89 < KI 8M8

NO OP W EN !

For Bookings

074 91 06718

*Offers run until 1st Jan

Hair, Make up & Lashes ...................................... €55 Blow Dry & Nail Paint ........................................... €20 Dermalogica Mini-facial & Blow Dry ................. €27 1/2 Leg, Underarm & Bikini Wax ......................... €20 Neck, Shoulder & Back Massage and Blow Dry €30 Mini-manicure, mini-pedicure & Blow Dry ........ €40 Hair, Make up, Lashes, Gel Paint & Spray Tan .. €70

E<N

I\Õ \ofcf^p MIK I\Õ \ofcf^p

I\Õ \ofcf^p XZZ\c\iXk\j k_\ Yf[pËj eXkliXc _\Xc`e^ gifZ\jj ]fi Xcc _\Xck_ `jjl\j

Beauty Pamper Packages

Girls Night Out Package =lcc Yf[p jgiXp kXe =`c\ " gfc`j_ fe _Xe[j " kf\j DXb\lg " cXj_\j

ONLY

€55

Eye Package <p\Yifn nXo <p\Yifn k`ek <p\cXj_ k`ek

ONLY

€15

Dfi\ gXdg\i Xe[ 9\Xlkp gXZbX^\j XmX`cXYc\ ZXcc '/, .(' -,'. ]fi [\kX`cj

I`m\ij`[\ I\kX`c GXib# C\kk\ib\eep (Between Patrick Gildea Hairdressing & Liberty Travel) FOLLOW US FOR MORE SPECIAL OFFERS

=FI 8GGF@EKD<EKJ 1 '/, .('-,'. nnn%`e[lc^\eZ\cXj\iXe[Y\Xlkp%`\

50 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

STYLE FILE

STYLICIOUS : Your weekly Fashion and Beauty News fix! For PR or general enquiries, contact us at content@kildarenow.com and put as the subject header : Stylicious

New Look waterfall jacket €79.95

River Island Oatmeal beige asymmetric knitted jumper €50 H&M woven scarf €19.99

Oasis ﬁligree stretch bracelet €15

Zara Oversized Dress €59.95

ALDO Barra Taupe Suede Flat Over The Knee Boots €176.47

River Island Black leather over the knee boots €120 River Island jeans €50

letterkennypost 51

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Puss in Boots

STYLICIOUS : Your weekly Fashion and Beauty News fix! For PR or general enquiries, contact us at content@kildarenow.com and put as the subject header : Stylicious

Pack away your Converse and ballet pumps because there's nothing nicer in cold weather than sliding on a trusty pair of boots for snug and dry feet in the winter. Ankle boots are a tried and trusted favourite, but the best way to nod to trends this year is by donning a pair of over the knee boots. Not only will your new boots dress up a pair of comfy jeans, they also look great paired with a skirt or dress and that other winter essential, a pair of black tights. Go for leather for a pair of boots for life, or add a waterproof spray to make sure seventies suede is pristine even the rain. These boots are so comfy and warm, you'll even want to wear them to bed.

Zara Wide Brim Hat €39.95

Boohoo Cassie mono print long sleeve woven shirt €24

River Island Black lightweight roll neck knitted top €25

Missguided elastic back over the knee boots €56

Dorothy Perkins Black Zip Aline Mini Skirt €22

52 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

STYLICIOUS…

Ally Garvey

Make-up Rut?

It's easy to get stuck and play it safe when it comes to make-up. Do you feel you would love to try out different trends but just don't know where to start? A smoky eye look is Step-by-step guide

I'm going to use a black shadow for this smoky eye, but this look can be created with browns, purples, navy or silver. STEP 1: Apply some of your cream concealer on your eyelid to create a smooth canvas make sure the shadow sticks. STEP 2: Pick a nude or cream colour and apply all over the lid. STEP 3: Gather some of your dark colour with your brush and create an arch shape. Start midway at the crease of your lid and sweep down towards your lash line. Then start blending to give a smoky effect. STEP 4: Using a charcoal black pencil, drag the pencil across the lower lash line to meet the outer

a fail-safe look that will see you through the Christmas party season. When trying out new looks it is always best to give yourself time. Don't try new corner. Use a blending brush, cotton tip or your ﬁnger to smudge the liner on the bottom lash line to create that sexy smoky eye look. STEP 5: Now to give the eye a little lift, you can either apply a nice vibrant colour or a nude shade only in the centre of your eye bringing it to meet the dark colour. STEP 6: Now it's time to blend. Always blend upwards and outwards this ensures there are no harsh lines. STEP 7: With this look, you can use gold, silver or white dust shimmer to highlight angles. Create contrast by brushing shimmer onto your brow bone and right in the corner of the eye. STEP 8: If you are not

looks an hour before you are due to head out for the night. You don't want to leave the house with panda eyes! Play around and see what suits you best before debuting your new look. conﬁdent using liquid liner you can always use a pencil, but make sure it is freshly sharpened before you start. Starting from the outer corner right into the inner eye, apply a thin layer of liner. Straight away, you will see how this helps bring the whole look together. STEP 9: Don't forget your brows. To create the perfect brow, use an angled brush, brown shadow or a pencil. Follow the natural brush strokes of your hair with your brush to deﬁne your brow shape. STEP 10: Using a jet black mascara from root to tip apply your mascara give two or three layers on both top and both lashes. And there you have it, the perfect smoky eye in 10 easy steps.

Model & Beautician

TALKING

TAN

Top Beauty Picks by

From instant tan to sprays and tinted moisturisers, the volume of different self tanners available is endless. So how do you choose?

Start by looking at your skin type. Whether fair, medium or dark skinned you need to match the tan to your skin tone.

Tantastic Self Tanning Liquid

Cocoa Brown Spray Tan

Giving a sun kissed instant glow, Tantastic is an easy choice for me when I want an instant glow. Being a liquid tan, it can be tricky to apply so make sure you follow the steps below and you should be ﬁne!

A spray tan is often the best option if you are going to an event, wedding or away for the weekend. A spray tan will last longer without leaving any streaky marks. Best of all, it is applied by a professional and all you have to do is prep your skin beforehand.

€18.00 for 150ml available in Pharmacies nationwide. Beneﬁts • 5 full bodies application, lasting up to 7 days • Instant colour • Fades gradually with no patches • Dries quickly due to advance skin absorbing ingredients • Paraben and alcohol free. • Contains Ecocert approved natural DNA (6%) How to apply • Apply fragrance free moisture to hands, elbows, knees and ankles •Use an application mitt to apply small amounts of tan at a time • Apply in for it circular motions and allow to dry

Avg €20.00 for a full body, available in salons nation wide. Beneﬁts • Application done by a professional • Brown colour with no orange tint • Last for up to 6 days • No streaks • Quick drying • Very natural fade off and the remainder is easily removed with exfoliator. Preparation •Exfoliate and moisture a couple of days before hand but not on the day of tanning • Wear loose clothing • Do not apply deodorant or perfume on the day of a spray tan

Dove Summer Glow - Medium to Dark Skin Dove Summer Glow is a fantastic way to build your tan up over time while also moisturising your skin. If you are fair skinned, I would suggest going for the lighter shade. €6.69 250ml bottle in Boots or any supermarket nation wide. Beneﬁts • Gradually builds a natural, glowing tan • Moisturises the skin • Can also be applied on the face • Good value for money How to apply • Gently rub into the skin in circular motions with the moisturiser • Apply Vaseline or petroleum jelly to brows and hairline to apply discolouration • Wash hands immediately after use

letterkennypost 53

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FEATURE

Preparing for winter AS winter begins to grip, the Letterkenny Post is here to help, as we provide our readers with some tips to ride out the next few months in comfort and safety. When well prepared for winter, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re free to enjoy normal thrills that accompany the season.

Winter Checklist Extreme cold can cause water pipes in your home to freeze and sometimes break. Leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continu-

ously. Keep the indoor temperature warm. Allow more heated air near pipes and open kitchen cabinet doors under the kitchen sink. If your pipes do freeze, do not thaw them with a torch. Thaw the pipes slowly with warm air from an electric hair dryer. If you cannot thaw your pipes, or if the pipes have broken open, use bottled water or get water from a neighbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home. In an emergency, if no other

water is available, snow can be melted for water. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most germs but wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get rid of chemicals sometimes found in snow.

Heating Checklist Turning on the cooker for heat is not safe; have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out: Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats. Ensure you have plenty of dry ďŹ rewood or a gas log ďŹ replace Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water. Never leave children unattended near a space heater. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes. Make sure you have the following safety equipment: Chemical ďŹ re extinguisher, Smoke alarm in working order (Check prior to winter storm season and change batteries, if needed.) Carbon monoxide detector (Check prior to winter storm season and change batteries, if needed.)

Never use an electric generator indoors, inside the garage, or near the air intake of your home because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use the generator or appliances if they are wet. Do not store gasoline indoors where the fumes could ignite. Use individual heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords to plug in other appliances.

PR WIN % O OM TE OT R FF *O ffer ION End Gut t s3 1st er C De le

cem

ber

201

ing

Other services we can offer include:

R. Russell

t *OUFSJPS XJOEPX DMFBOJOH t $POTFSWBUPSZ XJOEPX SPPG DMFBOJOH t 'BTDJB 4PĂł U DMFBOJOH t (VUUFS DMFBSBODF t 'VMM CVJMEJOH 8BTI %PXOT t $BSQFU $MFBOJOH t $IFXJOH (VN 3FNPWBM t 1PXFS XBTIJOH t (SBĂł UJ 3FNPWBM

CLEANING SPECIALIST

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

LETTERKENNY

Roofing and Lining Systems for Flat & Sloping Roofs Supply & Fit of PVC Single Ply Roofing Systems Domestic & Commercial

ALSO RUBBER ROOFS SUPPLIED AND FITTED

R. Russell

CHIMNEY CLEANING

LETTERKENNY & SURROUNDING AREAS Cleaned from the top down or bottom up

northwestrubberroofs@hotmail.com Contact

074 9124079 / 086 3229574

086-1580172 086-3367498 CROWGUARDS/COWLS ETC SUPPLIED & FITTED CHIMNEY RELINING & PLASTERING

Andrew Pond Tel: 086-2403905 www.prokleen.ie

3&% '6/(64 3&.07"-

* Our aim is to consistently surpass your expectations

54 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FEATURE

Kee’s Hotel is going for Gold Congratulations and Best Wishes to Kees Hotel

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Kees Hotel

Christmas Club Now Open WWW.BALLYBOFEYFLORIST. BALLYBOFEYFLORIST IE

Tel: 074 91 30028

Unit 1A, Shopping Complex, Ballybofey

C Find us on Facebook

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Kees Hotel www.bsgc.com E: info@bsgc.ie T: 074 9131093

ulstertyres.com ulstertyres.com

Congratulations and ulstertyres.com continued success to Kees Hotel Port Rd, Letterkenny Tel: 074 9121784 Letterkenny Road, Ballybofey Tel: 074 9131385

AT the end of this month Kee’s Hotel will be hosting a big tenth Birthday Party to celebrate the massive success of their Sunday Carvery. Taking place on November 29, the highlight of the day will be a Golden Ticket Rafﬂe in aid of Donegal’s Good & New ‘Cancer Bus’ charity who provide transport services for patients making that tough journey for treatment to Ireland’s specialist hospitals. With more than 40 prizes being rafﬂed, the hotel has received phenomenal support from local suppliers and

industry colleagues. These include hotel breaks, posh and informal dining-out and vouchers galore. During the last ten years, more than 100,000 diners have enjoyed Sunday lunch at the hotel with regular diners travelling from as far as Derry to Sligo and everywhere inbetween. The Birthday party will run from 12.30 – 4pm and is action packed with a glass of bubbles on arrival, ﬁve course celebratory meal, finishing off with a massive birthday cake. Irene Coyle will be playing her harp throughout.

letterkennypost 55

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FEATURE

OPEN SUNDAYS 1:30 - 6PM

Congratualtions

KEES HOTEL

"ØÊÂ ¼¼ ã¨ Üã ĕ ã

Mc Guigan’s Bar Stranor lar

The dedicated children’s’ programme includes face-painting and entertainment from Mr Majestic and the Mighty Mascots, whose characters include Spiderman, a Minion and the Ladies from Frozen. For the little people, there’ll be fruit shoots on arrival, a special kids’ menu and a big dip into the chocolate fountain. “We’re really excited about our 10th

Birthday Party celebrations,” said Vicky Kee. “The Sunday Carvery has been more successful than we could ever have imagined, and the support we’ve received from our customers over the last ten years has been amazing. “We hope many of our friends will come along to join in the fun, and that we can make lots of money for the ‘Cancer Bus’ charity group who are so

deserving.” Cost €23.95 Adults, €12.50 for 10-14 Years, €7.50 for

074 917 5877

4-9 Years and Free for 3 & Under. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Kees Hotel

24 The Weavers, Ballybofey

CALL: 074 9175555

Congratulations & Best Wishes to Kees Hotel

56 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FEATURE

Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel is all about tradition ESTABLISHED in 1845 as a Coaching Inn, Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic hotel has been in the family since 1892, giving them plenty of time to hone their traditions of hospitality and professional service. As the years have gone by, Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel has flourished, developing the ever changing needs of both the local community and visitors from further aďŹ eld. Now Richard, Jayne and Vicky Kee, the fourth generation of this well known family, are continuing on the day to day running of the hotel, and look forward to welcoming new guests and old friends. When William James Kee purchased the premises in Stranorlar in 1892 for the princely sum of ÂŁ400, he could not have envisioned that his great grandchildren, four generations later, would still be running the hotel today. Few hotels in Ireland can boast such a rich heritage, more than 120 years of continuous ownership by the same family, but that is Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique history here in County Donegal. Located in the Finn Valley, close to the Bluestack Mountain range, in the twin towns of Stranorlar and Ballybofey, Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel offers an ideal base for visitors seeking a break within an area of natural beauty. Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remains a traditional Irish hotel in every respect, with old world charm reďŹ&#x201A;ected through original tapestries, chintz covered sofas, gleaming brasses and antique furniture. At Keeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, a sense of comfort and genuine welcome becomes imme-

diately apparent, and remains constant. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation for great food is deservedly renowned, dating

back two generations to the widely acclaimed culinary skills of Granny Sue Kee. Even today, her wheaten bread

recipe is used daily, with the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breakfast buffet an irresistible delight. Who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to start their

morning off with a delicious helping of ďŹ&#x201A;uffy pancakes and maple syrup? Just the thing to set you up for a day of sightseeing around Donegal.

The

Flower Shop STRANORLAR

Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ClifdenClifden Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Joe Lynch, Manager SuperValu, Clifden

FResh flowers for all occasions

Joe Lynch, Manager SuperValu, Clifden

Clifden

birthdays, weddingS, funeralS etc

Valid from Tuesday 11th February - Wednesday 19th February 2014. Valid from Tuesday 11th February - Wednesday 19th February 2014.

Valid from Tuesday 11th February - Wednesday 19th February 2014.

SAVE SAVE

Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 33% 33%Kavanagh SAVE HALF Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ballybo Ba PRICE 33% Kavanaghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ballybofey BUY ANY B 3.99 3.99 Clifd 6 6 Congratulations BUY ANY and6Best Wishes Charlie Ferry, Manager Charlie Ferry, Manager SuperValu, Ballybofey SuperValu, Ballybofey

SAVE UP TO

HALF PRICE

Main Street, Stranorlar, Co. Donegal

Tel: 074 91 31692 E: ďŹ&#x201A;owershop@eircom.net

SAVE UP TO

HALF PRICE

ON WINES

4 SHOP ONLINE www.theďŹ&#x201A;owershopstranorlar.com

ON STEAK

SAVE UP TO Charlie Ferry, Manager SuperValu, Ballybofey

ON WINES

Joe Lynch, Manager SuperValu, Clifden

""4&*4./+-"4#+-4)+-"4"2 &/&*$41&*".4 ON WINES ""4&*4./+-"4#+-4)+-"4"2 &/&*$41&*".4 /% /41&((4 +),(")"*/43+0-4./" ' 4 /% /41&((4 +),(")"*/43+0-4./" ' 4

ON STEAK

Joe Lynch, Manager SuperValu, Clifden

""4&*4./+-"4#+-4)+-"4"2 &/&*$41&*".4 /% /41&((4 +),(")"*/43+0-4./" ' 4

3.99

14.99

& SAVE AN

14.99

Valid from Tuesday 11th February

ADDITIONAL

& SAVE AN

Kees 10Hotel SAVE Valid from Tuesday 11th February - Wednesday 19th February 2014.

ADDITIONAL

Romance Gift Box with Free Handmade Irish Chocolates â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;All Yoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dozen Red Roses

to PERFECT VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NIGHT IN FORNIGHT TWO IN FOR TWO PERFECT VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Romance Gift Box with Free Handmade Irish Chocolates

ON ALL 75cl WINES IN STOR ON INCLUDING WINES ALREADY ON INCLUD

SAVE UP TO

SAVE

SAVE UP TO

33%33%

HALF HALF ON ALL 75cl WINES IN STORE, Choose 1 Signature Choose Tastes Main, 2 Sides, 1 Dessert ALL FOR INCLUDING PRICE 1 Signature Tastes Main, 2 Sides, 1 Dessert ALL ALREADY FOR PRICE WINES ON OFFER SuperValu ON WINES ON STEAK & 1 Bottle of Wine for only 15 ON WINES & 1 Bottle of Wine for only 15

DINE IN Congratulations and continued DINE IN PERFECT VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NIGHT IN FOR TWO success to Kees Hotel + + + DINE IN "./(54 &-34 +24 +* +*4 -/+*4 $4 +146 4 %+-*/+* .4 -")&0)4 +24 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 "./(54 ( '4 $& 4 ( ..& .4 $4 +146 4 "./(54 &-34 +24 "(02"4 +((" /&+*4 $4 +146

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;All Yoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dozen Red Roses

Romance Gift Box with Free Handmade Irish Chocolates

Offer valid until Saturday 15th of valid February Offer until2014 Saturday 15th of February 2014

IRISH

Choose 1 Signature Tastes Main, 2 Sides, 1 Dessert & 1 Bottle of Wine for only 15

IRISH

14.99

"./(54 &-34 +24 +* +*4 -/+*4 $4 +146 4 %+-*/+* .4 -")&0)4 +24 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 "./(54 &-34 +24 +* +*4 -/+*4 $4 +146 4 %+-*/+* .4 -")&0)4 +24 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 "./(54 ( '4 $& 4 ( ..& .4 $4 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;All Yoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dozen Red Roses &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 ! 0-34 &('4 - 34 $4 +146 4 "./(54 ( '4 $& 4 ( ..& .4 $4 +146 4 "./(54 &-34 +24 "(02"4 +((" /&+*4 $4 +146 +146 4 "./(54 &-34 +24 "(02"4 +((" /&+*4 $4 +146

IRISH

ON STEAK

Offer valid until Saturday 15th of February 2014 SuperValu Fresh Irish Sirloin Steak Fresh Irish Sirloin Steak SuperValu was 17.49/kg Now 11.72/kg

+ 15+ ALL FOR

SAVE UP TO 6.99

""4&*4./+-"4#+-4)+-"4"2 &/&*$41&* /% /41&((4 +),(")"*/43+0-4./" ' 4

Wine HALF IRISH SAVE UP TO 6.99 IRISH al Fe PRICE 4SuperValu TOiv3.99S 4 SAVE UPst SAVE UP TO

SAVE UP TO 6.99

ON WINES

ON STEAK

HALF Wine PRICE

""4&*4./+-"4#+-4)+-"4"2 &/&*$41&*".4 /% /41&((4 +),(")"*/43+0-4./" ' 4

SuperValu Fresh Irish Fillet Steak Fresh Irish Fillet Steak SuperValu was 34.99/kg Now 23.44/kg was 34.99/kg Now 23.44/kg

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

letterkennypost 57

FEATURE

58 letterkennypost

www.facebook.com/thewashingwell

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

T. 086 7779300

OPENING HOURS: Mon to Fri: 8.30-6.30 Sat: 9 - 5.30

"If something's worth washing, it's worth washing well"

If you don't want to ruin your favourite tee or dress

...then leave it to the experts CALL OR TEXT US ON 086 7779300 FREE CAR PARKING | FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY

letterkennypost 59

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

FARMING EXTRA

Donegal Texels In lamb sale Ó Cuív condemns Donegal Texel Sheep Breeders will hold a sale of In-Lamb Texel ewes, gimmers and 1 empty ewe lamb at Raphoe Livestock Mart on November 20 at 6.30pm. Roughan Wendy will be the star lot kindly donated by texel breeder John Stewart with all proceeds of the ewe lamb going towards The Good and New Cancer Charity. This charity provides a transport service for cancer patients from Donegal to Galway for all there required treatments. Established in 2005 the Murroe Flock run by Micheal Ward will be

holding a dispercial sale of there entire adult portion of the flock.This sale will include 21 aged ewes and nine gimmers with the majority of these sired by some of the top rams in the breed. Speengoue Pierre, Enniscrone Sensational and Glenside Tomboy bloodlines are dominant in the current ewe flock and will be scanned in-lamb to String Victor, Annakisha Titan and Ballybrooney Up and Running. There will also be 77 In-Lamb gimmers from the Hillcrest, Shannagh, Larahirl, Hillsborough, Moneyhill,

Silverhill, Clara, Figart, Labbadish, Whitehill and Goldrum Texel Flocks and will be scanned in-lamb to top quality sires which include Woodbrooke Ulster Pride, Smyllum Van Gal, Knock Trident, Sportsman Superstar, Innisrush Whistler, Durcryne Uber Cool and Chessy Spot On. Judging has been left in the capable hands of Ryan Doherty, Hill View Flock, Clonmany and show begins at 5pm. All ewes will be scanned on day of sale. This sale gives purchasers a chance to buy in the best bloodlines in the breed served to proven sires.

changes to GLAS scheme FIANNA Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture Éamon Ó Cuív has condemned recent changes to the GLAS 2 Scheme, which will see payments to farmers significantly reduced. New restrictions will have a major impact on average payments, with many farmers predicting that they will only qualify for grants of around €3,000. Deputy Ó Cuív commented: “The roll out of this scheme has been extremely disappointing, with the number of applications well below the targets set out by Minister Coveney. The changes, which are being introduced as part of the second tranche of this programme will impact negatively on family farms and payments are expected to be substantially below the €5,000 average per farmer which has been budgeted for. In fact it’s thought that payments will only average around €3,000 under round 2 of the programme.

“This is a major blow to farmers who rely on this payment to maintain their business. Not only will they see significant reductions in their payments, some farmers will no longer qualify for the payments as a result of the new restrictions being brought in. Farmers across the country are unhappy with the current GLAS scheme, which is evidenced in the low take up numbers. “The whole programme is in urgent need of a serious review to establish how it can be improved and made more attractive for farmers. Minister Coveney has a track record of underspending and I have serious concerns that the €1250m designated for the scheme will not be fully expended. It is essential that all funding earmarked for agriculture and rural schemes is utilised to improve the environment and provide financial assistance to hard pressed farmers.”

Proposals on inspection rates must go further n Knock Trident

High bank transaction charges must be cut IFA President Eddie Downey has called for the excessive bank charges being imposed on farmers and agribusinesses for debit card transactions to be reduced. Mr Downey stated: “While the recent Budget announced a reduction in the cost of electronic payment services through a reduction in the interchange fee cap, the move is totally insufficient. If banks and the government are serious about businesses moving to electronic payments, debit card transactions must be subject to a reasonable fixed fee instead of a percentage charge.” Mr Downey added: “Over recent months, this issue has been repeatedly highlighted by farmers and the

agri-trade and it is totally unacceptable that a percentage charge is being applied on debit card transactions. We need regulation that ensures a reasonable fixed fee on electronic payments. :Farmers and merchants writing cheques pay a fixed transaction fee and there is no reason why the same should not apply for debit card transactions.” Commenting on the use of cheques, IFA Farm Business Chairman Tom Doyle said: “For many farmers and small businesses, cheques remain a common and convenient form of payment, as many transactions are undertaken in an environment where electronic payment mechanisms are

Raphoe Mart Prices Cattle prices from Thursday, November 12 Top class Bulls over 600kgs - €600 to €795 over the weight; Beef Bullocks - €500 to €855 over the weight; Store Bullocks - €400 to €870 over the weight; Beef Heifers - €500 to €820 over the weight; Store Heifers - €400 to €790 over the weight; Dry Cows - €700 to €1125 each. Sheep prices from Monday, November 16 Store Lambs - €35 to €46 over the weight; Factory Lambs - €44 to €52 over the weight; Butcher Lambs - €46 to €57 over the weight; Fat ewes - €40 to €80 each.

not available or easily accessible. “Some older farmers are neither familiar nor comfortable with electronic payments. The increased charges attaching to cheques are adding to the cost of doing business and creating anxiety among farmers that cheques could be discontinued in the future. Farmers need reassurance from commercial banks that cheques will remain a valid payment mechanism and that they will be available at a reasonable cost.” Mr Downey concluded by adding that: “We will be meeting the CEOs of the main commercial banks in the coming weeks and will be addressing the use and cost of different payment methods for farmers.”

For the best deals in advertising in our farming section, contact Cassidy Peoples on

086 7714067

IFA Deputy President Tim O’Leary has said the proposed reduced inspection rate from 5% to 1% announced by the EU Commission is a welcome development but that more needs to be done to ensure that there is a greater flexibility in the interpretation of rules governing inspection. Mr O’Leary said the Commission must go further and ensure that payments are not held up for the most spurious of reasons, as we are seeing this year when many

farmers’ payments have been held up because of issues such as dual claims, over-claims, digitisation, etc. The Deputy President said the IFA will be raising the new simplification rules at the first meeting of the Charter Review Committee this Wednesday, and will be ensuring that they are taken on board and incorporated into the Charter, as was envisioned when the Charter was agreed this year.

Agricultural Development Officers (Temporary) (Ref: ADO/KT/2016) Teagasc is the agriculture and food development authority in Ireland. Our mission is to support science-based innovation in the agri-food sector and the broader bioeconomy that will underpin profitability, competitiveness and sustainability. We are now looking to establish a national panel from which temporary Agricultural Development Officer vacancies in the areas of advisory and education will be filled. Further information along with a detailed job description and application form can be found on www.teagasc.ie/careers The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 12 midnight on Friday 11th December 2015. Teagasc is an equal opportunities employer. Canvassing will disqualify.

www.teagasc.ie

60 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

Farming •

McGinley Motors Pearse Rd., Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

where they were in danger of drowning. Along with the crews, two Rib Inflatable Boats and a Radio Communications Unit were deployed to the area. This service continued until darkness fell and it was no longer safe to work. Donegal’s Civil Defence Officer, Edel Flynn said the incident presented numerous challenges for the volunteers. “We had to find the best places to access the flooded areas, the livestock, assess

the best way to approach them and develop different approaches to saving stock depending on their locations. “We managed to help save many animals and where others were unreachable from a practical point of view, we managed to move them to higher ground and safety. ‘We were out until darkness fell but at all times aware of our surroundings and safety. We also had to be aware of the tidal effects on the Finn and respond accordingly.”

Ms Flynn added she wished to thank everyone who helped out in any way and assisted their teams. Civil Defence is always available to respond and provide assistance to all sections of the community during flooding incidents for pumping of water, evacuation, water search and water rescue, should the need arise. For enquiries or call out, telephone Civil Defence on (074) 9175665 or by mobile on (087) 2386579.

Payment delays main issue at charter meeting IFA Deputy President Tim O Leary has said that the back-

Tel: 074 91 25666

NEWS • MART RESULTS • PHOTOS •

Civil Defence rescue animals stranded near flooding Finn SUNDAY'S flooding chaos along the River Finn created many challenges for members of the farming community but thankfully members of the Donegal County Council’s Civil Defence unit were on hand to rescue livestock at a number of locations. 14 members of its Swift Water First Responder and Flood First Responder Teams were activated to respond to flood incidents in the Castlefin - Liscooley areas where they assisted farmers in the rescuing of sheep and cattle

www.landrover.com

log on payments under the Basic Payment Scheme is un-

acceptable and the Minister for Agriculture Simon Cov-

eney must intervene with the Department to remove the barriers preventing an advance payment to all farmers at this stage. Tim O Leary said IFA will be making the delay in payments the major issue at next week’s first meeting of the new Charter of Rights Monitoring Committee, under the Chairmanship of Sean Brady.

Raphoe Mart Cattle Sale

12 November

n Dry Cows €700-€1125.

n Store Heifers - 500kgs €400-€790 over their weight.

Frustration Tim O Leary said IFA is demanding that the Department makes an advance to all farmers without delay and a clear schedule is put forward by the Department as to when the issues holding back payments will be resolved. The IFA Deputy President said there is growing anger and frustration among farmers who have not received their advance payment.

n Beef Heifers - 500kgs €500-€820 over their weight.

n Store Heifers - 500kgs €400-€790 over their weight.

Concern over changes to cap educational requirements IFA Deputy President Tim O’Leary has expressed concern that the Department of Agriculture has changed the rules governing the educational requirements for the Young Farmer Top Up payment and the National Reserve. In the CAP information meetings and documentation, it was clearly pointed out that young farmers who did not have the required agricultural education qualifications would qualify for additional

payments if they commenced a FETAC Level 6 agricultural course on or before September 30 2016. “Changing the date now is a problem for many young farmers and it is important that flexibility is shown that will accommodate young farmers who participate in some minimum level of educational course before the end of the year,” Mr O’Leary said. “It is now important that the Department of Agriculture writes to all applicants

for young farmer measures to advise them of this change so that alternative and flexible arrangements can be put in place and to ensure that no young farmer loses out.” Mr O’Leary said it is important that as many young farmers as possible can avail of the various CAP supports and that there are no impediments put in their way. “This is also relevant to young farmers who will be applying for the TAMS Young Farmer Scheme,” he said.

letterkennypost 61

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

MOTORING

Restrictions to disabled drivers and passengers schemes slammed SINN FĂŠin councillor for the Stranorlar Electoral Area Gary Doherty has criticised the government for refusing to expand the qualifying conditions currently laid down for applicants of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Schemes. Cllr Dohertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comments come following the tabling of a Parliamentary Question by party colleague Deputy Pearse Doherty which, called on the minister to provide for additionality to the scheme in order to allow those with certain serious medical conditions currently excluded from the scheme to be included. Cllr Doherty said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Schemes provide crucial tax reliefs and Motor Tax exemptions for people with disabilities when purchasing an adapted car or other vehicle in order to travel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, a lot of applicants cannot access these schemes due to the restrictive nature of the qualifying conditions currently employed, for example applicants with certain visual impairments, and certain neurological conditions donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t currently meet the requirements laid down for entry to the scheme. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Of course, this is grossly unfair as this scheme could reduce the

cost of transport for so many more people and greatly increase the mobility of people with disabilities.â&#x20AC;? Cllr Doherty added that at present, in order to avail of these schemes applicants only qualify if they are severely physically disabled. He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe that additional conditions should be included as part of these schemes so that a greater number of people may avail of these tax concessions. ďż˝In his response to the DĂĄil Question tabled by my colleague Deputy Pearse Doherty, the Minister conceded that he regularly receives pleas from those who do not meet the current criteria but who feel that they would greatly benefit from being granted access to the schemes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despite this admission, the Minister has heartlessly refused to neither expand nor grant additionally with respect to either of these schemes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is an appalling show of contempt by this Government for people with disabilities; here we have a Minister refusing outright to even consider improving the quality of life for citizens whose mobility is greatly reduced due to the seriousness of their conditions.â&#x20AC;?

Inishowen Motors have secured what will surely be a much sought after registration number to coincide with next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1916 commemorations. The registration 161-DL-1916 will be available for a Kia or Nissan from Inishowen Motors.

All-New

Renault 2 02 *'4',%

&# **R #5 #, 3*2 20#+# . !)

ÇŽuw| per month 5'2&B

0-+

x 7# 01a 5 00 ,27 x 7# 01a 0- "1'"# 11'12 ,!# v 7# 01a 1#04'!',% ',!*3"#" *31 tR7# 0 $0## 0- " 2 6 2 '%&* ," -2-01

xR12 0 30- 0 2',%

', ,!# #6 +.*#B #, 3*2 6.0#11'-,Â&#x2020;A uwAw|s ',!*3"#1 vR7# 0 1#04'!# .* ,@ #.-1'2 {Avx|@ #0+ vy +-,2&*7 . 7+#,21 -$ uw|@ y@|Â&#x201E;@ -2 * !-12 -$ !0#"'2 uAzz| ',! "-! 9 !-+.*#2'-, $## zx # !&@ .2'-, * n, * . 7+#,2 tsAu|y@ 6!#11 +'*# %# .*31 #6!#11 5# 0R ,"R2# 0 !& 0%#1 + 7 ..*7 3.-, 0#230, -$ 4#&'!*#@ p#0 #6!*31'4# 2- #, 3*2 ', ,!#@ p#0 '1 + "# 3,"#0 &'0# .30!& 1# %0##+#,2@ 3 (#!2 2- *#,"',% !0'2#0' @ #0+1 ," !-,"'2'-,1 ..*7A 1## 0#, 3*2@'#@ L 0,',%B -3 5'** ,-2 -5, 2&#1# %--"1 3,2'* 2&# n, * . 7+#,2 '1 + "#N@ xR7# 0HussAsss)+ + ,3$ !230#0a1 5 00 ,27 1 12 ," 0"@ -"#* 1&-5,B '%, 230# 4 t@x " ' u|Au|s@ 0'!# #6!*3"#1 +#2 **'! . ',2A "#*'4#07 ," "# *#0R0#* 2#" !& 0%#1@ 6'+3+ 0#!-++#,"#" "#*'4#07 !& 0%# zux@ tR7# 0 $0## 0- " 2 6 4 '* *# -, ** #, 3*2 . 11#,%#0 4#&'!*#1 5&#, -0"#0#" 7 vt12 -4#+ #0 ustx ," 0#%'12#0#" 7 vt12 ,3 07 usty@

HIGHLAND MOTORS -3,2 ', -.A #Éš#0)#,,7A -@ -,#% * #* szw |tu{ zzz 555@&'%&* ,"0#, 3*2@!-+

Open Week 23â&#x20AC;&#x201C;28 November

--) 2#12R"0'4#

62 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

MOTORING

Change the Way You Drive with FREE ŠKODA SmartLink Technology Searching for the nearest hotel or tourist stop, listening to music and making calls are just some of the things we rely on our smartphones for. The challenge has been for drivers to utilise this technology in a safe manner while they are driving. Now with ŠKODA’s new SmartLink, drivers can make the most of their smartphones by safely accessing approved app technologies – for free! The recently launched ŠKODA Superb already benefits from this technology as standard. Now, the majority of Fabia, Rapid, Octavia and Yeti models ordered before the 31st December will come with this innovative Smart-

0% Finance and SmartLink free on selected models in the ŠKODA Range before 31st December Link Technology completely free. In addition to free SmartLink, ŠKODA are also providing interest free finance on Fabia, Rapid, Octavia and Yeti models. The new SmartLink system from ŠKODA connects drivers to selected applications on their Apple or Android devices via a colour touch screen system in the vehicles radio, using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. One of the big-

gest benefits for motorists is that mapping and navigation applications from Apple and Google can therefore be safely displayed, accessed and controlled on the vehicles colour screen or in some cases for certain applications by voice commands. Entertainment applications that are compatible include Digital Radio, Apple Music and Spotify. Speaking about the offer, Raymond Leddy, Head of Mar-

keting & Product at ŠKODA Ireland said, “Bluetooth technology has been in existence since 1994 and still has excellent merits. SmartLink technology, however, takes things to a new level, allowing drivers to access messages on their screen and use voice recognition software built into their phone to send texts while driving. Satellite navigation has always been a luxury item to fit to a car. SmartLink employs the map software on your Smartphone to provide navigation on the colour touchscreen systems fitted to SKODA vehicles” For further information on ŠKODA and their fantastic offers visit www.skoda.ie

Drivers who have moved address are not receiving notification of renewal

Drivers urged to check their licences have not expired THE Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging drivers to check the expiry date on their licences and learner permits, as many drivers may be unknowingly driving with expired licences. The RSA normally sends out a notification to drivers to let them know that their licence is about to expire. However, if the driver has moved or changed address and hasn’t updated the RSA, they won’t get the letter advising them to renew their licence. As a result, many drivers may be unknowingly driving with expired licences.

Check Therefore, the RSA is urging drivers to check when their licence or learner permit is due to expire. If it has already expired, drivers should go to any of the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centres nationwide and renew their licence as soon as possible.

November and December are the quietest months of the year at the NDLS centres.

Responsibility Ms Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority said: “It is the individual’s responsibility to make sure that their driving licence is in date at all times. “However, due to changing address, many drivers may not have received a notification that their licence is due to expire. “November and December are the quietest months of the year at the NDLS centres, so we would urge drivers to check when their licence or learner permit is due to expire and to make an appointment to get it renewed as soon as possible.” “This will also help to avoid any last minute panic and to ensure you get your licence renewed in good time.

“This is particularly important for people who are planning to travel or move abroad and who may not realise their licence is expired or due to expire. “Don’t leave it until the night before your dream holiday to discover your licence is out of date.” To book an appointment with any of the NDLS centres, visit ndls.ie. The RSA is reminding drivers that you can renew a licence up to three months before its expiry date. However, if your licence has expired for ten years or more, you must start the application process again and take a driver theory test, mandatory driving lessons and a driving test.

Further information For more information on the process and what documents are required, visit https://www.ndls.ie/how-toapply.html#where-you-are-renewingyour-full-licence-you-must-submit

Finn Valley Post

TYRES | BATTERIES | ALLOY | WHEELS Second Hand Tyres & Rims Available

FREE TYRE CHECK

Great Value on Euro 80 Bridge Street Strabane Tel: (048) 7188 0101 Mob: 078 80705574 email: damiencaldwell@aol.com

To advertise in our Motoring Section, contact James on

074 9112 713

letterkennypost 63

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

€161 goes a long way these days.

Order your new 161 Golf and get a host of extra features for only €161. Three years Free Servicing on all 161 models Finance from 1.9% When you order your new Golf we’ll give you up to €2,050 worth of extra features for €161. What’s more, if you place your order before Christmas we’ll give you 3 years free servicing. Call into us today or visit www.volkswagen.ie for more details. Trimline

Technology Pack

APR

Monthly Rental

Trendline

Leather multi-function steering wheel, Multi-function display plus, cruise control, Media-IN, Composition Media 6.5“ touchscreen infotainment system, rear electric windows (5 door models only) (RRP €2,050)

5.9%

�269

Park Distance Control, adaptive cruise control, Media-IN, light assist automatic headlamp dimming system, lights & vision pack, rear view camera (RRP €1,469)

3.9%

�269

1.9%

From �269

Comfortline

Highline, GTI, Discover Media 6.5” touchscreen navigation system, Media-IN, GTD, GTE, R light assist automatic headlamp dimming system, keyless entry (5 door models only), rear view camera (RRP €2,033)

J.J.Reid Motors

J.J.Reid Motors, Canal Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal T: 074 91 22333 www.jjreidvolkswagen.ie Golf BMT 2.0 TDI DSG 5dr 150hp CO2 emissions (g/km) 119. Combined fuel consumption 4.3l/100km. Increased weight of a vehicle, including higher trim levels and the addition of options may have an affect on the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions produced. The CO2 and fuel consumption figures are obtained from tests on a representative vehicle of the type, conducted and approved in accordance with Council Directive 80/1268/EEC as amended by Directive 1999/100/EC (or later) on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to the carbon dioxide emissions and the fuel consumption of motor vehicles. Typical Finance Examples: Golf Trendline OTRP €21,000. Deposit/Part Exchange €5,545.69. 36 monthly payments of €269. Optional final payment €7,685.50. Total cost of credit €2,065.19*. Golf Comfortline OTRP €23,740. Deposit/Part Exchange €6,709.36. 36 monthly payments of €269. Optional final payment €8,726.70. Total cost of credit €1,530.06*. Golf Highline OTRP €26.100. Deposit/Part Exchange €7,464.72. 36 monthly payments of €269. Optional final payment €9,623.50. Total cost of credit €822.22*. Subject to lending criteria.*Total cost of credit includes acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Volkswagen Bank GmbH is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Offer applies to 161 registrations that are ordered before 31st December 2015. This offer does not apply to fleet sales. Model shown is for illustrative purposes only. See www.volkswagen.ie for details.

64 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

MOTORING

Donegal Motor Club

Closed Mini Stages Rally THE Donegal Motor Club has just announced the return of a special ‘Closed Mini Stages Rally’ planned to take place on Saturday, January 30. Recently elected Clerk of the Course for the event Karl Reid, is busy planning a route and preparing regulations.

PHOTO: Mark McCullagh

Once again the Donegal Club has been tasked by the National Sporting body, MotorSport Ireland, following an application to run such an event in for the North-West region of the Ireland. Karl said: “We have been given the go-ahead for the event recently, and it is a priority to get

the route, regulations, and essential requirements in place shortly to give the Club Members a great Mini-Event. “Although termed ‘Mini’ it requires the same stages of planning, although with fewer miles than the Joule International Rally or Harvest Rally.

“The full team are hard at work to make this happen. Essentially this is an event for the Donegal Motor Club members, as it is a ‘closed’ permit.” Outline details available so far include, the date for the event, Saturday, January 30, which will be based out of Letterkenny.

The route will consist of six special stages, in a format of two stages run three times, over a distance of approximately 90kms. Regulations and further details will be made available shortly, on the Donegal Motor Club website at address, www.donegalmotorclub.com.

Adrian Sweeney from Drunkeen and Shane Bu ckley in action at the Doneg al International Rally.

letterkennypost 65

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

MOTORING

Citroën Ireland launches 161 offers and extended warranty IT’S a very good time to get to know the Citroën family, as Citroën Ireland has announced a range of attractive offers on selected 161 orders, for a limited time*. 0% APR PCP FINANCE OR €4,000 SCRAPPAGE The C4, C4 Cactus, C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso are available to order with either 0% APR PCP ﬁnance or €4,000 scrappage. These fantastic 161 offers are available on selected new Citroën cars ordered and delivered before 31st March 2016. 5 YEAR WARRANTY Citroën Ireland has also extended its warranty by 2 years, with the launch of its new 5 year (or 100,000 kilometres) warranty – giving you even more peace of mind. 2015 was filled with excitement for the Citroën range – with the C4 PureTech engine voted Engine of the Year 2015, the innovative C4 Cactus picking up even more awards, bringing its award count to 36* and Ireland’s best-selling 7 seater the Grand C4 Picasso being named WhatCar? Best MPV for the second year in a row. For further information on these offers, or to arrange a test drive, simply log onto www.citroen.ie *Terms & Conditions Apply

Some C4 Cactus Accolades

Most Beautiful Interior Award 2015 – International Automobile Festival “L’automobile - Best Cars” Best Compact SUV 2015 – France OAMTC Automobile Club – Prix Marcus 2015 – Austria UK Car of the Year Awards - Small Hatchback of the Year 2015 – UK Carbuyer.co.uk Awards 2015 – Car of the Year 2015 – UK Car Design News – Production Car of the Year 2015 – UK

66 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

EMPLOYMENT

SOME SHOES NEED FILLING

A real taste of America

P/T Experienced

Hotel Receptionist Required

Full-time position Minimum one year experience in a busy Hotel Front Ofﬁce Environment. Apply with CV & Cover Letter to: patriciakelly@mulroywoodshotel.com or post to Patricia Kelly, General Manager, Loughnakey, Milford. Closing date for receipt of applications: Thursday 26th November

Experienced

BARrequired STAFF for busy pub located 10 mins from Letterkenny Candidates must be very customer focused, friendly, professional and have the ability to work under pressure with a smile. Send C.V.’s to:

barwork123@gmail.com

Coaching Equals Results MY name is Kathy O Connor and I work as a Life

coach and Counsellor in Donegal. I trained in Germany in Gestalt Therapy and I studied in Dublin where I received a Diploma in Life coaching in 2001. I hold Diplomas in Business and Life Coaching, Gestalt Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP and Counselling.

Hiring a Life or Business Coach is one of the most powerful things that a person can do to move their life in the direction they want. I say this because, for the many years that I have been Coaching I have seen people come to me in a place of frustration, confusion, anxiety or uncertainty about where

they are at and about the future. In a short period I have seen them change their lives around, they become happier, and more fulﬁlled individuals.

So what is it that I do?

I work with people who want to make changes or achieve some big results. I care about their success and work with them to be the best that they can possibly be. The variety of issues that present is Career change, Relationship, Confidence, Self Esteem and Stress. I help people to face their issue head on and create an action plan and to stay focused so that they make the changes or achieve the results that they want. I assist clients in ﬁnding what their true

desires are, what they feel passionate about and what it is that they want most in their lives. I help them set out a set of action steps to get the results that they want. So, when you hire a Coach what you are looking for is results.

DON’T LET FEAR STOP YOU

Most people do not get what they want because they let their fears get in the way. Fear does not exist in the present moment; fear lives in the future and is created by imagining catastrophic consequences that have yet to happen. We create fear ourselves so it is self-created. It is all in the mind. In fact, you can actually scare yourself by imagining negative

and harmful images. By simply stopping these catastrophic thoughts and images, the fear goes away. If you are afraid of something then you will back off or run away from it and if you are excited about something then you will go towards it. The feeling of fear in the body is similar to the feeling of excitement, what determines the difference is our thoughts in relation to the situation. Fear, like everything else has a place in our lives. There are times when it is appropriate to feel fear and there are times when we let fear get in the way of success. Call me on 0868676565 for an appointment to create your success. Your Coach, Kathy

Positive Outcomes For Life offers a Professional, Conﬁdential Service to those who are seeking change in their life.

Hiring a Lifecoach can help you

• to take stock of your life, • to take charge • to challenge old belief and behaviour patterns • and to implement change. Life coaching is all about creating the life you really want by taking massive action.

Let me help you NOW. Contact: 0868676565 for an appointment e: lifecoachdonegal@gmail.com www.positiveoutcomesforlife.com

Chef de Partie REQUIRED

To apply or for further info Call head chef Ricky on 083 355 5611

Public Notice BOOKMAKERS’S LICENCE APPLICATION I, Conal Vambeck, hereby make application to the Superintendent, An Garda Siochana, Letterkenny, per the Betting Act, 1931 for the application of Bookmaker’s Licence and Certiﬁcate of Suitable Premises situate at Main Street, Lifford, and County of Donegal.

To book this advertising space contact

Cassidy Telephone:

086 7714067

letterkennypost 67

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

TRADES & SERVICES WE SPECIALISE IN REPAIR & SERVICE OF ALL DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL BOILERS & ALL CENTRAL HEATING & PLUMBING SOLUTIONS

We Buy Scrap Cars

✔ REGULARLY SERVICING YOUR BOILER CAN REDUCE FUEL COSTS BY UP TO 25%

✔ REGISTERED & APPROVED ENGINEER.

✔ CLEAN, RELIABLE & PROMPT

Waste permit no. ENV 143 04 - 0415 Authorized treatment facility - End of life cert

SERVICE

Contact:

086 1512286

ABS BOILER SERVICES

email: absboilerrepairs@gmail.com www.absboilerrepairs.com

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm | Sat 10am to 1pm

Tel: 086 8842355

BONAGEE LETTERKENNY CO DONEGAL

BUILDING SERVICES 1st & 2nd FIXING ROOFING & FLOORING CARRIED OUT “One Call Does It All”

Tel: 086 888 7266

˾ ALL TYPES OF BUILDING, PLASTERING & CARPENTRY ˾ GARDEN SHEDS � BLOCK BUILT OR TIMBER FRAME ˾ CONCRETE PATHS & DRIVEWAYS ˾ GARDEN WALLS & FENCING ˾ ROOFING & ROOF REPAIRS ˾ ALL INTERNAL JOINERY

tel: 086 8722 087

COLL CLEANING Carpets, Upholstery, Hard Floors ECO SAFE CLEANING SOLUTIONS:

No harmful chemicals or detergents used. Safe for Children & Pets.

EXPERT CLEANING OF LEATHER SUITES & ORIENTAL RUGS! EXCELLENT RESULTS GUARANTEED!

074 91 36119 / 087 2203389

Your Local Handyman s Full maintenance on all commercial, private property & rentals s All types of roof repairs and new installations s Extensions, Attic Conversions, Dormers, Veluxes s Installation of Wooden Floors, Interior doors, locks etc. s Kitchen Cabinets & Bedroom Units s Garden Decking & Fencing s Comm. Shop Fits, Insurance Damage s Installation of all Tiles in Kitchens & Bathrooms s All types of concrete work s All PVC Installation & Cleaning. s Removal of Roof Moss & Red Dia Algae

ALL WORK PROFESSIONALLY CARRIED OUT t 7"5 3&(*45&3&% t

FREE ESTIMATES

www.collcleaning.com

National Enterprise Week River Media operates six award winning and market leading local newspaper titles. This includes the Derry News and the County Derry Post in County Derry; the Letterkenny Post, Finn Valley Post, Inish Times and Donegal Post in County Donegal; and the Kildare Post in County Kildare.

■ ABOVE: Pictured at the Bank of Ireland ‘At Ours/ At Yours’ networking event in the Letterkenny branch as part of the Bank’s 13th National Enterprise Week are Karen Jordan, Martina McGinty, Aoibheann Walsh and Donna Jacob. PHOTOS: Clive Wasson

SPORTS EDITOR CO. DERRY POST Competitive salary We are looking for an outstanding journalist to join our team and continue to deliver top quality sports coverage. The successful candidate will have a recognised journalism qualification or 3 years full time newspaper or broadcasting experience in addition to sports reporting experience in weekly newspapers / broadcasting. Essentially you will be highly motivated with a track record in story generation. For further details log on to www.rivermediajobs.com

■ RIGHT: Toni Forester, Letterkenny Chamber CEO, Paul Reynolds, Property Partners and Tara Rodgers, Branch Manager.

Closing date: Monday, 30 November 2015 at 4pm River Media is an equal opportunities employer

68 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

SPORT

Gallagher inducted into Hall of Fame AT 91 years young, Milford AC’s Hugh Gallagher, who recently won three gold medals and a silver medal in athletics at the World Championships held in Lyon, France, was presented with the Ulster Sports Star Hall Of Fame Award in the Four Seasons hotel in Monaghan on Friday night. Hugh received a standing ovation from a packed attendance from all over Ulster.

n Hugh receiving his award on Friday night.

n Hugh pictured with his daughters, from left to right: (in black) Caroline Bernadette, Angela and Rosemarie.

All Star Kelly CONGRATULATIONS to Oisin Kelly who picked up an Ulster All Star Award on Friday at a ceremony in Monaghan in recognition of his great achievements where he became U11 National cross country champion in December 2014 and U12 National 600m indoor champion in March 2015. Oisin is pictured with Milford AC’s Hugh Gallagher.

n Finn Valley AC’s Arlene Crossan who received a special achivement award at the Ulster Athletics presentations in Monaghan last weekend. Arlene is pictured with her parents Sean and Bernie.

letterkennypost 69

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

SPORT

Quigley back in action By Rory Mooney

editor@letterkennypost.com

n Ballybofey middleweight Jason Quigley pictured ahead of his fight against American Machristopher Adkins in Las Vegas.

DONEGAL professional boxer Jason Quigley’s next oppnent has been announced. Quigley will face 31year-old, Marchristopher Adkins in Las Vegas in the early hours of Saturday morning (Irish time). The Ballybofey middleweight will fight in front of packed audience in the Hard Rock Café and Casino. The highly rated fighter, who recently celebrated his second anniversary being signed to Golden Boy Promotions, has won

his previous eight professional fights by knockout. Quigley will be aiming to make short work of Adkins, as the Finn Valley man seeks to stretch his unbeaten record to nine straight victories. Commenting on social media when the fight was announced, Quigley said he was, “buzzing to be back fighting in the Capital of professional boxing.” Adkins, however will prove a tough test for as Quigley, as the Texan goes into the fight full of confidence following three wins already this year’s under belt.

n Quigley will be hoping to make it nine wins in a row.

Sports Star nominations deadline looming DONEGAL Sports Star Chairperson Neil Martin is now asking all sporting organizations in the county to submit their nominations for the 40th Awards celebrations. “I would just like to remind all sporting organizations in the county that the deadline for nominations is Friday week the 27th of November. So it’s important that the sporting achievers of 2015 get the recognition they deserve by having their names nominated on this historic year for the Donegal Sports Star Awards” Mr Martin said. Please note that only successes in 2015 are eligible for consideration when deciding on winners in the various cat-

egories. The only exception to this rule is the primary and second schools sections. Here it is sporting achievements during the academic year 2014/2015 which will be judged and it only successes while representing the school that will be eligible in the primary and secondary categories. Nominations are not being taken for the Hall of Fame as the committee will be selecting the winner here for the Donegal County Council sponsored function. A brief summary only of the relevant sporting achievements will suffice. Pictorial and DVD footage is also required.

Nominations can be done online from the nominations page and emailed to info@ donegalsportsstarawards. ie or by completing a simple nomination form, which can be downloaded and posted to Paul McDaid, Post Office, Ramelton. Those not using on-line can simply post their nominations to Paul McDaid, Post Office, Ramelton. The deadline for nominations for the Donegal County Council sponsored awards is Friday, November 27. For further information on the Donegal Sports Star Awards go to donegalsportsstarawards.ie, Twitter at DonegalSportsStars or on Facebook at Donegalsports Starawards.

n Triathlon Ireland Super Series Gold medal winner Aidan Callaghan with Chris Kitchen (Triathlon Ireland CEO). PHOTO: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

Callaghan scoops Irish triathlon gong LETTERKENNY 24/7’s athlete Aidan Callaghan received his Super Series Award last weekend at Triathlon Ireland’s annual award dinner.

North West 10k AGM

n Past winners Dessie Kelly, Paddy Delap and Paddy Gallagher promoting nominations for the 2015 Donegal Sports Star Awards.

The North West 10k’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Thursday, December 10 at 6pm in Mount Errigal Hotel. 2016 will be a special year for the organization as it will be the 20th staging of the charity run and walk which has given over €700,000 to charity.

The Donegal man had an impressive year, which resulted in him taking the trophy for finishing in first place.

If you have a story or a sales query telephone

074 911 2700

70 letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

SPORT DONEGAL JUNIOR LEAGUE FIXTURES Saturday 21st November K.O. 2 p.m. ( Unless Stated ) Old Orchard Saturday Division Orchard F.C. v Arranmore United (K.O. 1 p.m.); Glencar Celtic v Drumkeen United Glencar Inn Saturday Reserve Division - St. Catherines Reserves v Erne Wanderers Reserves; Milford United Reserves v Drumoghill F.C. Reserves; Keadue Rovers Reserves v Glenea United Reserves; Donegal Town Reserves v Cappry Rovers Reserves; Glenree United Reserves v Castlefin Celtic Reserves Sunday 22nd November K.O. 2 p.m. ( Unless Stated ) Brian Mc Cormick Sports Premier Division - Milford United v Kilmacrennan Celtic; Gweedore Celtic v Kildrum Tigers; Cappry Rovers v Glenea United; Castlefin Celtic v Rathmullan Celtic; St. Catherines v Drumoghill F.C. Temple Domestic Appliances Division One - Cranford United v Gweedore United; Kerrykeel ’71 F.C. v Lifford Celtic; Keadue Rovers v Donegal Town; Bonagee United v Lagan Harps; Convoy Arsenal v Raphoe Town CT Ball Division Two - Dunkineely Celtic v Eany Celtic; Ballybofey United v Letterbarrow Celtic; Copany Rovers v Whitestrand United; Erne Wanderers v Deele Harps; Glenree United v Curragh Athletic

ULSTER SENIOR LEAGUE FIXTURES

Sunday, November 22 Kick-Off: 2pm - Fanad Utd vs Bonagee Utd, Traigh-a-Loch; Letterkenny Rovers vs Derry City Res, Leckview Park; Swilly Rovers vs Cockhill Celtic, Swilly Park

n Donegal’s Eoin Sheridan turns away from the Inishowen pair of Gerry Gill and Nigel Mc Monagle during Sunday’s Oscar Traynor Trophy match at “The Moss”, Drumoghill.

n Donegal substitute Kyle Black gets some last minute instructions from Donegal League team manager Brian Dorrian before enterig the action on Sunday. Black scored the Donegal league’s equalising goal. PHOTOS: Gary Foy, League PRO

Dorrian’s side still on course for next stage By Chris Ashmore

chris@letterkennypost.com

THE Donegal League Oscar Traynor team boss Brian Dorrian was bitterly disappointed to see his side lose out to a late winner against their great rivals from the Inishowen League at The Moss. The only consolation is the fact that his side are still odds-on to progress as the second qualifying team from this four team group. Last Saturday, Dorrian went to watch the Sligo-Leitrim League beat the Cavan-Monaghan League 4-1, and he holds no fears about them

The weekend results mean that the Inishowen League are through and have six points. The Donegal League and Sligo-Leitrim League are both on three points, having both beaten Cavan-Monaghan but lost to the holders, the Inishowen League. However, the Donegal League have a far superior goal difference. Indeed, in order not to advance they would need to be beaten by five goals by Sligo-Leitrim when the sides meet in a fortnight. Conceding a late winner was hard for the Donegal League team to take, but Dorrian can be well

n Having a ball at the Showtime Soccer Skills event.

pleased with his side’s showing overall. “Their second goal was our own doing. We lost possession. But they are a good side and that is what they do to you,” he said. “I would have taken a draw. We should have tightened up at the back.” He felt they had done well in the first-half. “I thought we were the better side and had the better chances.” His side have been training since August and he is pleased with their progress overall. His counterpart, Diarmuid O’Brien, was delighted to have got

the victory, but also paid tribute to the Donegal League and he still feels that they can also “be at the top table.” He said his side had been too lethargic in the first half but they raised the tempo of the game in the second half. “It’s all about taking your chances and for us to come back shows the character of the side,” he said. He also commented on how good a game it was “with not one back tackle” and re-iterated his view that the standard of junior soccer in Donegal is as good as anywhere else.

n Donegal boss Rory Gallagher and Finn Harps manager Ollie Horgan pictured with some of the kids that took part in the Showtime Skills event.

Showtime Soccer Skills Fun event

Sporting celebrities join Donegal school kids OVER 200 children and their families travelled from all across Donegal from as far as Killybegs and Malin Head to Letterkenny for an evening of fun soccer skills and challenges. The event which was organised by the Finn Harps

FC Schools Programme in association with their main sponsor Kelly’s Toyota, Letterkenny & Mountcharles was a great success with every single child having a chance to participate in the many soccer skills and challenges

placed before them, they also had a chance to meet some of Donegal’s sporting heroes who came along to support for the fun event. The evening showed that events like this can be a great development tool for children to allow them

to meet new friends, develop their ball skills and to also have fun taking part in sport, the programme would hope to run more similar events in the future. On the night also each child participant were presented with a certificate

signed by current Finn Harps FC first team players, a few of the lucky ones also left with some sporting goodies which were drawn during the course of the evening. However it wasn’t only the children who got an opportunity to chal-

lenge as some of the sporting adults also having a go with current Finn Harps FC manager Ollie Horgan, Donegal GAA senior Team Manager Rory Gallagher and senior GAA captain Michael Murphy also having a go!

letterkennypost 71

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

SPORT 12 new faces added to the mix…

Gallagher gets back down to business By Frank Craig sports

Rory Gallagher’s plans for the new season are now in motion with the unveiling of 12 new faces for his Donegal squad. The Donegal boss, speaking at the weekend, said the dozen newcomers will all get their opportunity to impress in the McKenna Cup. And who ever stakes a claim there will be thrown in at the deep end come the NFL. The new players on the squad are: Danny Rodgers (Dungloe), Stephen McMenamin (Red Hughs), Kieran Gillespie (Gaoth Dobhair), Michael Carroll (Gaoth Dobhair), Eoghan Ban Gallagher (Killybegs), Ciaran Thompson (Naomh Conaill), Stephen McBrearty (Kilcar), Caolan McGonigle (Buncrana), Jack O’Brien (Naomh Muire), Tony McClenaghan (Moville), Rory Carr (St Eunan’s) and Caolan Ward (St Eunan’s). The fixtures for the NFL were also released this week with Donegal opening away to Down on January 30. They are also on the road against Kerry, Dublin and Monaghan. But Gallagher and his charges can also look forward to home ties against Cork, Mayo and Roscommon. Gallagher said on the youthful additions to his panel: “Even this time last year we were aware of a lot of those lads. They were fresh from playing in an All-Ireland minor final. We gave them a full year with the U21s and some were even involved with the minor side in the year gone by. “We feel they’ve developed a good bit themselves. We have them involved now and we’re looking forward to getting going in the new year. “People probably feel this year’s (minor) side was unfortunate and could maybe have went further. There is a lot of talent there. We even had a few of them in training at different stages over last summer. “That would have allowed them to get a bit of a feel for it as well. A lot of them are already physically developed and they have that strength and conditioning already done at minor. That’s a big help. We’ll all feed of that fresh energy and enthusiasm they’ll bring. ” Gallagher will use January to blood the dozen or so fresh faces in the more forgiving surroundings of the McKenna Cup and the challenge for them there, he says, is to lay a marker for when the real business gets under way in the NFL at the end of that same month. “That would be the plan,” he added. “We

will give them all a go at different stages in the McKenna Cup. We also have a few challenge games lined up for December. There are 12 new lads there and who ever puts their hand up with also get a run in the league as well. “We’ve good belief that the quality is there. We just have to give them the experience now.”

No retirements The other huge plus for the manager is that none of his more experienced players have called it a day. Gallagher adds that their enthusiasm to get going once again and help the push to retain the Ulster SFC title is already obvious from the couple of meetings he’s had with them. “There has been a lot of talk in the last couple of years about those lads. But to be honest, at no stage did I expect any of them to go. And if some did it wasn’t going to be that many. I met with the older lads on a number of occasions and we talked about things – where we’re at and where we’d like to get to. “I always got a very positive attitude back from them. I never actually put the question to them... they all came to me at various stages and stated it was their intention to get back at it. That’s really positive. We’re delighted to have them on board. “They still possess so much quality and they are still the standout players in club football here in Donegal. They’ve already achieved so much with Donegal and we’re looking forward to more of the same.” Donegal are looking forward to tangling with the winners of Antrim and Fermanagh in the championship. If they come through that then old foes Monaghan could well present the opposition in the last four. Donegal have also been spared the arduous gauntlet that is the preliminary round and that has it’s obvious benefits as the manager explains. “Honestly, we only look at the first game and that’s how we approach every year,” said the manager on the championship draw. “We’re delighted not to be out until what looks like June 12. It gives us nine full weeks after the NFL finishes. That’s a great lead in time and it will allow us to get some real quality work done. “Given the age profile of our squad too it’s an extra wee break that we’re very much appreciative of.”

Hurt Having surrendered their provincial crown to Monaghan last summer Gallagher admits

n Donegal manager Rory Gallagher is all set for the new season.

that the result still grates at him. That’s not a bad thing. If Donegal and their boss have dwelled on it over the off season, that hurt can finally be put to good use from here on in when the group finally meet up collectively once again in the next few weeks. He said: “You still be sore about it – there is no doubt about that. We invested so much in the Ulster campaign and it’s a championship that we cherish. We’re also very aware that the best way to go into Croke Park is through Ulster as champions. “It’s not forgotten. But we hope to learn from last season and bring it into 2016. We want to improve as players, as management and as a group so we’re better for next year.” As for Donegal’s NFL intentions, Gallagher explained that they won’t come at the expense of their championship aspirations. “That’s (championship) the date you work back from and that’s been the case very much so for the last number of years. Everything is geared towards being at our best for that period. Obviously, we want to survive in Division 1. But this year we also want to blood some new players in that kind of competitive environment to help build our squad. “We’ll be targeting that six-point tally and see where that leaves us. We’ve worked hard to get to Division 1 and we’ll be aiming to stay up. It’s the best breeding ground for youngsters looking to step up and prove themselves ahead of the provincial and AllIreland stages.” The NFL fixtures for 2016 have also been released and are as follows for Donegal: Jan 30: Down (A); Feb 2: Cork (Ballyshannon); Feb 28: Mayo (Ballybofey); March 6: Kerry (A); March 13: Roscommon (Letterkenny); March 26: Dublin (A): April 3: Monaghan

CASH BACK

CASH BACK INTO CHECK OUT OUR NEW SCREENS AT OUR WHITEHOUSE SHOP. YOUR HAND ON WE HAVE ALL NEW SPECIALS IN EVERY RACE. 5-FOLDS DAILY SPECIALS INCLUDE HORSE MATCHES AND DISTANCE BETTING IN ALL RACES. & UPWARDS WE ALSO HAVE A NEW VIRTUAL CHANNEL WHERE YOU CAN BET FOOTBALL ETC.

IF ONE TEAM LETS YOU DOWN ON YOUR 5-FOLD ACCUMULATOR, WE WILL REFUND YOUR STAKE UP TO €/£25 IN CASH MATCH BETTING ONLY. ALL TEAMS MUST BE 1/3 OR GREATER. T&C’S APPLY

sport Letterkennypost

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2015

ATHLETICS

BOXING

GAA

Donegal athletes Jason Quigley recognised at Ulster back in action All Star Awards

P68

P69

Gallagher plotting 2016 campaign

P70

www.letterkennypost.com

McBrearty expecting ferocious Aussie battle By Frank Craig

the ground running in terms of the rule changes. “We’ve been practicing away in training and trial games,” he added. “But once you get to the real thing it’s completely different so that previous experience from my last involvement is vital. “You don’t want to be getting used to the rules in the game as it could be over by half-time if you’re not up to scratch from the off. That previous experience definitely stood to me a lot over the last number of weeks.” McBrearty was part of the Ireland side that hammered an exclusively Indigenous Aussie selection back in 2013 by 172 to 72.

sports

PATRICK McBrearty says Australia will bring a serious level of aggression and skill to Croke Park on Saturday night when they collide with Ireland in the International Rules. The Kilcar man, a onetime target for Aussie Rules clubs in his teens, is the only Donegal man in Joe Kernan’s squad after previous captain Michael Murphy and fellow Tir Chonaill teammate Neil McGee opted out this time around. Australia got the better of Ireland in last year’s one-test encounter in Perth and look like they mean business once again. They’ve selected the cream of the AFL and Ireland face a real battle in their attempts to regain the Cormac McAnallen Cup. “It’s great to be involved,” said McBrearty on his call up. “I was there in 2013 and I enjoyed it immensely. I didn’t get the chance to do it last year because of the All-Ireland run and club football. “Joe (Kernan) rang me a while back and I was delighted to say yes. I had picked up a few injuries but he was very supportive. He gave me a little time off and allowed me to get on with my rehab. Thankfully everything went alright in the trials and all the focus is now on Saturday.” With the original two-test format scrapped last year after Ireland had dished out a number of heavy drubbings to what were poor Aussie teams; McBrearty says there is so ■ Donegal and Ireland’s much more on the line now Patrick McBrearty. in a one off contest. There is no scope for settling into the hybrid game and you really have to hit

But having taken in last year’s loss Down Under from afar, he is well aware that the weekend’s encounter represents a serious step up in class. He said: “This is a step up, there is no getting away from that. Going by last year it looked a big change in quality from the last time I was involved. Looking at some of the

DVDs in the lead up of that again, they were very impressive. “The tempo, the tackling and that high press they used; it was very impressive. We’ll definitely have our hands full on Saturday night. “But I think that’s what the crowd wants to see – a good, hard and competitive game of football. People were critical when some games did overstep the mark a few years ago. And then it went the other way completely when the physical edge was tapered back maybe a little too much. “It’s about finding that balance. Their natural game is physical and I think Gaelic football has become a lot more physical in recent times too. I think that aspect of Gaelic football is at an all time peak. Our strength and conditioning is up there with theirs. “That shouldn’t be an issue at the weekend. There is that ‘professional vs. amateur’ thing as well. But when you’re representing your country you’re prepared to give it everything.” At one stage there was serious trepidation from many high profile faces within Gaelic football that the link up with Australia was a detrimental one and it was gifting them direct access to our best young talent. But McBrearty feels those fears haven’t materialised and there has been no major exodus from these shores. He says that it’s Ireland that has actually taken more from the Aus-

sie Rules code than the other way around. “Yeah, deﬁnitely,” McBrearty said on that score. “Rugby also and the way they train has had an impact. A lot of the Irish players that have gone over and come back like Tadhg Kennelly and Marty Clarke have taken things back with them. New ideas and new methods are coming in all the time.“

Donegal McBrearty admits that the absence of Michael Murphy and Neil McGee to this year’s panel is a blow. But he says that Ireland’s loss will be very much Donegal’s gain when the new season throws-in in 2016. He said: “The two boys have been there before but they probably need that wee break. “They’ve been on the go nonstop now for the best part of ﬁve or six years. A clean break for a month or two from it all will be a huge beneﬁt to them and of course to Donegal in the new year.” When Donegal do get back down to business McBrearty can also look forward to linking up with younger brother Stephen who was promoted to the senior intercounty ranks at the weekend by Rory Gallagher. That sees the Kilcar contingent in Gallagher’s squad swell to six alongside Patrick, Ryan, Mark and Eoin McHugh and Ciaran McGinley. “Stephen got the call up too and I’m delighted,” he added. “He’s been going well with the club for the last few years now and he’s developing all the time. It’s another face in the car for the journey up to training. “He’ll not get near the front seat though – there is a rule that you need to be there for at least three seasons to even look to get in there!”

CHRISTMAS CLUB RESERVE YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS WITH A DEPOSIT

SHOP ONLINE 24/7 (074) 912 8268

NOW OPEN

michaelmurphysports.ie

Station Roundabout, Letterkenny

michaelmurphysports.ie