Thursday 20 December 2018

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Thursday 20 December 2018

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ALSO INSIDE

Concerns raised over new 10 bed ward

SHORT STAY WARD CONFUSION

Rory Mooney

editor@letterkennypost.com

Ballymacool Respite Christmas party Page 19

Polar Plunge special Pages 20-21

Arena 7 Christmas Disco Pages 30-31

The group responsible for Letterkenny University Hospital has denied that a new ‘Discharge Lounge’ is to be used the longawited Short Stay Ward.

Hospital bosses announced recently that the new discharge lounge would facilitate 16 patients per day who are discharged from the wards and who will now go to a comfortable seated area while waiting to be collected to go home.

The new discharge lounge aims allow patients to be collected by their relatives or friends from the old ED exit, meaning they do not need to go into the paid parking area of the hospital grounds, which will also make it easier for the patients to leave the hospital.

However a member of staff at Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) contacted the Post to highlight their concerns that the new discharge lounge would act as the Short Stay Ward.

“This new lounge is laughable,” the staff member said. “Everybody throughout the hospital knows that this is the new Short Stay Ward that was promised.”

In a statement to the Post, the Saolta University Health Care Group said that the new discharge lounge is being ‘temporarily’ located in the Short Stay Ward.

The statement said: “As part of the Saolta Group’s winter plan-

ning process we have received some funding and will be opening 10 beds in the Short Stay Ward once the staffing is in place.

“We will continue to work towards opening the remaining beds, which will be dependent on the availability of funding and the ability to recruit the necessary

staff.

“A discharge lounge has been introduced to help free up beds on the wards earlier in the day and reduce congestion in the Emergency Department.

“This discharge lounge is temporarily located in the Short Stay ward until further accommoda-

tion becomes available.

“The discharge lounge is a separate initiative, not to be confused with opening of additional inpatient beds in the Short Stay Ward.

Patient feedback to date has been overwhelmingly positive and 21 patients availed of the new facility in the first three days.”

Danny's pre-Christmas polar plunge!

Olympian and former postman Danny McDaid takes the plunge at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last. PHOTO: Clive Wasson.

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2 NEWS NEWSBRIEFS Gardai appeal for information on Leck graveyard theft Gardai have confirmed that they are investigating a theft from Leck graveyard in Letterkenny.

They say a graveside memorial was discovered missing at around 9am on Tuesday morning last week.

While no arrests have been made Gardai say investigations are ongoing.

Contact us

(074) 911 2700 EDITORIAL

Chris Ashmore Group Sports Editor chris@letterkennypost.com

(074) 9112715

Rory Mooney

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Donegal pensioner (77) killed in freak accident An elderly man has been killed in a tragic accident at a garage in east Donegal.

The freak workplace incident occurred shortly after 8.30am this morning at a premises in Carrigans on the outskirts of the village of St Johnston.

The pensioner – named locally as 77-year-old Mervyn Orr – died when he became trapped by machinery while showing mechanics his car at a local garage, it is believed.

In a statement, a Garda

spokeswoman said: "A man in his late 70s was fatally injured when his car collided with a parked car and plant machinery on the premises.

"Gardaí and Emergency Services were called to the scene shortly after 8.30am on Monday 17 December 2018 and an examination of the scene is being carried out by Gardaí.

"No other injuries were reported and enquiries are ongoing."

The Health and Safety Au-

The late Mervyn Orr.

thority (HSA) dispatched investigators to the scene.

"Its devastating news for his family just before Christmas," local councillor Paul Canning said.

Cllr Canning added: "I know the thoughts and prayers of everybody in the community will be with the family at this tragic time."

Mr Orr is survived by wife, three children and grandchildren. He was well-known amongst motorcycling enthusiasts across the county.

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NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS 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.

Eamon and Carol-Anne Ponsonby raised €300 for the Hospice from the auction of a painting. Seen here presenting the cheque: Carol-Anne, Jaydan and Kendra Ponsonby, Jean Alcorn, Eamon Ponsonby, Patricia Gerraty.

Wastewater infrastructure plans progressing Irish Water has confirmed it is currently progressing the detailed design of wastewater infrastructure for the towns of Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton.

The utilities company is also working towards submitting a planning application in 2019. The environmental studies required to support the planning application are ongoing.

At present the towns of Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton have no (Ramelton and Rathmullan) or substandard (Milford) wastewater treatment and are discharging untreated or partially treated wastewater into the environment at these three separate loca-

tions.

The practice of discharging untreated wastewater is unacceptable and Irish Water intends to rectify this problem.

This will be achieved through the construction of pumping stations at the three locations, rising mains and a combined wastewater treatment plant which will discharge treated effluent to the Lennon Estuary.

This project will ensure that there is an adequate treatment of wastewater, for now and into the future, as well as protecting human health and safeguarding the environment.

It is envisaged that planning, design and construction will take approxi-

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Cllr. James Pat McDaid

T: 086 3974063

mately 3 to 4 years and will be undertaken between 2018 and 2021.

Irish Water held a public information evening in October to present plans for this project.

An Irish Water spokesperson said: "During the design of the scheme, the option of treating sludge onsite using Sludge Drying Reed Beds emerged as the preferred option.

"Sludge Drying Reed Beds are commonly used for the process of sludge treatment on both small and large scale wastewater treatment plants, throughout Europe.

"They have not been used extensively in Ireland to date but do exist at

a smaller scale and are being piloted

by Irish Water currently on a number of sites in County Carlow."

The spokesperson added: "Irish Water is confident that Sludge Drying Reed Beds will form part of the future landscape of wastewater infrastructure throughout Ireland, however, in the case of this project, our engineering experts have determined that Sludge Drying Reed Beds should be removed from the scope of the project.

"We met with the local community and their concerns were reflected as part of this decision.

"Irish Water will issue further updates on the project in due course."

www. .com

Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year You can contact me on 086 669 0423 email: JimmyKavanaghfg@gmail.com Facebook: Cllr. Jimmy Kavanagh Twitter: @jimmyk123

AS THE NEWS HAPPENS

NEWS 3

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Financial questions over proposed relief scheme sought

Mica scheme details delayed Rory Mooney

editor@letterkennpost.com

Homeowners in Donegal affected by mica will have to wait a few weeks more to find out the details of the proposed relief scheme.

At a Cabinet meeting in Dublin yesterday, the Government was due to discuss the scheme.

However following a request from the Department of Public Expenditure, the discussion of the scheme

was postponed.

Officials from the Department have further questions regarding the costing of the scheme.

Details of the much-needed relief scheme are now due to be discussed early in January, the Inish Times has learned.

Chairperson of the Mica Action Group, Ann Owens said: “We are of course disappointed that the scheme did not go before Cabinet today (Tuesday), as discussed at the meeting with Minister English and Minister

Joe McHugh last week.

“It would have been lovely to have had formal approval at government level for the proposal drafted by Senior Officials in the Dept. Of Housing over the last few months since redress was announced.

“However, we also acknowledge that with a scheme of this size and scale there is a need to ensure that all the necessary details are available to the relevant departments in order for them to make an informed decision.”

Ms Owens added: “However, we

have been assured that the scheme will be put on the agenda early in the new year and should cause minimal delay.

“2018 has been a significant year for the mica campaign, and whilst there will always be unforeseen issues like this today, we remain confident that the scheme will be rolled out early next year.”

Donegal Senator Padraig Mac Lochlainn signalled he is due to hold an emergency debate on the matter in the Seanad some time this week.

Donegal singer tops the pops with festive song Catherine McGinty Reporter

Inishowen country singer and Jive Time Show presenter, David James was “over the moon” when his Christmas single went straight to the top of the charts on its release.

The song, entitled: “There’s No Place Like Home At Christmas” topped the Irish and British iTunes Christmas Charts at the beginning of December.

A modest David said he had had a good feeling about the song while he was recording it in October.

David said: “’There Is No Place Like Home At Christmas’ was written by James McGarrity. As I

was recording it in Valley Music Studios in Ballybofey with Terry McGinty, I had a good feeling.

The song has a good message and, thankfully, it was well received.

“However, I was taken aback when the downloads went crazy after it came out. I was over the moon to get to the top of the Irish charts. I couldn’t believe it when it got to the top of the British charts too. I am absolutely delighted with its success.

“Hopefully the song has raised my profile in Britain. I am touring there from May 1 to 12. The show is called “The Pride of Ireland Tour” and will feature popular Irish songs, as well as two talented Irish Dancers from Glasgow.”

“Over the next wee while, I am looking forward to performing at the St Stephen’s Day Dance in An Grianan Hotel in Burt, with my special guest, Olivia Douglas from Tipperary. The dance is an annual fundraiser for the Special Needs Department of Scoil Íosagáin in Buncrana,” David added.

David will be extremely busy presenting and performing in 2019. As well as a Caribbean Cruise, organised by New York Tenor, Andy Cooney, David is heading off to Portugal in May to perform with Country stars Margo and Trudi Lawlor. He is also gigging with Nathan Carter in Portugal in October.

For more information visit the David James Facebook page.

Letterkennypost & THE NORTH WEST

Donegal singer David James.

NEWSBRIEFS 30 people waiting for a bed in LUH

Thirty people were left waiting to be admitted to Letterkenny University Hospital on Wednesday morning.

The INMO figures revealed that seven people were waiting on in Emergency Department while a further 23 patients were waiting in hospital wards for a bed.

Arson attack: CCTV footage could be key

CCTV footage and motorists’ webcam footage could be invaluable for Gardai in their investigations in an arson attack on an unoccupied house in Kilmacrennan in the early hours of Sunday morning.

There has been both shock and outrage in the local community regarding the incident that has shattered the lives of a local family.

The house was almost complete and the family had been hoping to move into it next year.

Supt. David Kelly of Milford Garda Station described the incident as a “cowardly act” and called for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area at 2.40am on Sunday morning to contact them on 074 91 53060 or on the confidential line on 1800 666111.

Meanwhile, it has also emerged that there was a similar incident in the same area in 2016 when an old farmstead was burned to the ground.

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The Letterkenny Post would like to wish all our readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

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4 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Emma McKinley from Falcarragh receiving her Gaisce Gold Award from President Michael D. Higgins.

Sorcha McElchar from Castlefin receiving her Gold Award off President Michael D. Higgins.

Young Donegal women honoured by President Higgins Two Donegal women were among 77 young people honoured for their achievements by President Michael D. Higgins in Dublin Castle as part of the Gaisce Gold Award Ceremony.

Sorcha McElchar from Castlefin and Emma McKinley from Falcarragh were both celebrated on the day for their dedication towards personal development.

During her Gaisce journey, Sorcha learned to play the guitar, improved her general fitness through gym work, dance and yoga and volunteered with children at her local youth club.

Speaking about undertaking Gaisce, Sorcha said: “For me the Physical element of my award was always going to be the most difficult. Not to mention that once you are over the age of 18, it is very hard to find dance classes in Donegal.

"While I was looking for dance classes I thought I’d work on increas-

ing my strength and flexibility, which was virtually non-existent to be honest!

"I went to the gym and started yoga.

It was really difficult at the beginning.

I was sore and tired all the time, but after a few weeks it started to get better.

"I wouldn't be as tired after a workout and my flexibility increased dramatically”.

Falcarragh native, Emma McKinley, who described her Gaisce Gold Journey as “challenging, inspiring and amazing”, dedicated an hour each week for 52 weeks to learning German and becoming more active through cycling and swimming in order to achieve her award.

As part of the award, Emma became more involved in her local community by coaching Gaelic football, volleyball and athletics teams.

Emma’s Gaisce Journey Gaisce

Award experience culminated with her setting up a charity, ‘The Thumbs Up Cycle’, where she organised and took part in a 720km cycle from Mizen Head to Malin Head to raise money for the RNLI after the death of a relative at sea.

Emma also volunteered with Barretstown Camp at Barretstown Castle in Co. Kildare where she helped run a summer camp for children living with haemophilia.

Delighted

Speaking about the Gaisce Award, Emma said: “I first started my Gaisce journey in 2005 with the bronze award, so the Gold award has been a long time coming but a challenge I am delighted to have finally achieved.

"Through this award, I have overcome many challenges. Through my physical skill, as well as competing in many cycling sportives across

the country, I finally learned how to swim, something which I had always been afraid of doing.”

Speaking about the Gaisce Award, Emma said, “I first started my Gaisce journey in 2005 with the bronze award, so the Gold award has been a long time coming but a challenge I am delighted to have finally achieved.

Through this award, I have overcome many challenges.

"Through my physical skill, as well as competing in many cycling sportives across the country, I finally learned how to swim, something which I had always been afraid of doing.”

2FM DJ and RTE presenter, Eoghan McDermott, acted as MC on the day where a variety of personal achievements were recognised. In total, Patron of Gaisce President Michael D. Higgins, presented 78 inspirational young people from across Ireland

with their prestigious Gaisce Gold Awards.

This is the largest number of young people to have been honoured in any one ceremony since Gaisce, The President’s Award was founded in 1985.

This year’s Awardees hail from 26 counties and 52 Gaisce Award Partners.

Speaking about the Awardees, John Cunningham, Chairman of Gaisce – The President’s Award said: “I would like to congratulate all of the Gold Award recipients on completing their Gaisce journey.

"Although the pillars of the Gaisce programme remain the same every year, each Gaisce experience is as unique and expansive as our participants determine.

"I would like to sincerely thank our Gold Awardees for enriching our Gaisce story."

Calls for urgent recruitment at Ramelton Community Hospital Donegal TD Charlie McConalogue has called on the HSE and the Government to urgently recruit staff so that a number of beds in Ramelton Community Hospital can re-open.

The hospital has capacity for 30 beds, however only

26 are currently occupied because of staff shortages.

Deputy McConalogue commented: “The only way to ease the intense pressure that health services in Co. Donegal are under is to open up the closed beds.

"Ramelton provides ex-

cellent step down care and should be operating at full capacity, however four beds are closed as a result of staff shortages.

"This means people who could be discharged from Letterkenny University Hospital are having to remain

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there until a bed in another facility becomes available.

"This in turn is impacting overcrowding at the hospital.

“With Letterkenny University Hospital already experiencing record trolley numbers this year, the re-

opening of these four beds would make a real difference and would ease the pressure on an already overstretched system.

"We cannot afford to wait to see the beds at Ramelton Community Hospital reopened."

“Staff must be identified and recruited immediately so that Ramelton can operate at maximum capacity.

"I will be pursuing this matter with the Minister for Health and the HSE at every opportunity,” concluded Deputy McConalogue.

NEWS 5

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

NoWDOC reveals Christmas and New Year's Out of Hours opening times The NoWDOC service, has revealed its festive operating times.

NoWDOC Service Manager, Deirdre Moy outlined how the service operates and what services will be in place over the Christmas holiday period.

She advised that the service is designed to provide urgent GP care to patients and is not a substitute for the Emergency Ambulance Service who are the appropriate service to deal with medical emergencies where they arise.

She said: "All calls received in the NoWDOC call centre (which is contacted via the 1850 400 911 number) are initially assessed by trained and qualified Nursing clinicians.

"On completion of the nursing triage process a clinical decision will be made regarding the appropriate level of care as patients can be seen by a GP in one of our main treatment centres which are located in Letterkenny, Carndonagh, Mountcharles, Derrybeg and Carrick-on-Shannon.

"All consultations in the NoWDOC service are by appointment only and the location of the centre which the patient will attend is agreed in advance with the patient during the process."

Over the Christmas and New

Year period the service will be providing urgent Out of Hours GP care to patients who require same and that the service will operate as per normal hours in each of the NoWDOC sites as per the following information.

NoWDOC opening hours in each of its centres will operate as normal outside of the holiday periods as shown in the panel opposite.

Letterkenny and Inishowen GPs operate their own surgeries on Saturday morning up to 12 midday and thereafter patients in the Letterkenny and Inishowen areas should contact NoWDOC. Ms Moy reminded all patients and service users that the service is normally very busy over the Christmas and New Year periods and waiting times may be longer than normal.

She also advised that patients and service users should ensure that prescriptions and medicines are arranged with their own GP and pharmacy before the holiday period commences on Friday, December 21.

In conclusion and on behalf of the NoWDOC service, Ms Moy stated: "The entire team of staff and GPs in NoWDOC would like to extend our good

wishes to all of our patients and service users for the festive period."

Ms Moy also acknowledged "the hard work and commitment of the staff and GPs who work throughout the year and particularly over the festive period to provide this service”.

Christmas & New Year Opening Hours Monday, December 24 - 6pm through to Thursday, December 27 8am.

Thursday, December 27 - 6pm to Friday, December 28 8am.

Friday, December 28 - 6pm through to Monday, December 30 8am.

Monday, December 30 - 6pm through to Wednesday, January 2 8am.

NEWSBRIEFS Residents urged to remain vigilant

Residents across Donegal have been urged to remain vigiliant for criminals following a recent spate of burgularies and attempt break-ins.

Mass goers were targeted in the Castlefinn area in one particularly nasty incidient.

Car windows were smashed and valuables including a handbag, purse, phone and driving licence were stolen during Mass.

Cllr Gary Doherty said: “This was an absolutely despicable act and I hope the perpetrators are caught and brought to justice.

“I would make an appeal for anyone who may have been in the area on Saturday evening and seen anyone acting suspicious to pass any information they have to the Gardaí.

"I would also urge people to take extra caution when out and about and do not keep valuables in your car as it is clear these criminals will do anything to get them."

Other incidents included criminals targeting a home in Manorcunningham, a house in Newtowncunningham and the Parochial House in St. Johnston.

Cllr Paul Canning praised the local community in their efforts in preventing such crimes from taking place.

“The work that the community is doing in trying to stop these crimes from happening is begining to work, through the text alerts and social media.

But I’d remind everyone to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for these boys.”

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6 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Traffic disruption in Finn Valley

Major retail plans for Lifford

Major water mains project to begin in January

Chris Ashmore chris@letterkennypost.com

Plans for a major new retail development in Lifford could get the green light from Donegal Co. Council before Christmas.

Local business Daly Brothers (Lifford) Limited is seeking planning permission to construct a new development with eight retail units on a 1.35 hectare site.

Planners have indicated that a decision on whether to grant planning permission or not is due within the next week.

The proposed development would be just off the busy Letterkenny Road on the outskirts of the town, and on a site behind the existing Daly’s petrol station and shop.

In the planning application it is stated that the proposed development could lead to 30 jobs.

A Traffic and Transport Assessment report has been submitted to the local authority in relation to the planning application.

In its dealing with the applicants, Donegal Co. Council made reference to the fact that the proposal is away from the town centre, and requested a Retail Impact Assessment.

A 21 page Retail Impact Assessment was subsequently lodged with the local authority. Compiled by McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Limited, Planning and Environmental Consultants, it concluded that “the proposal will not have any adverse impact on the vitality and viability of Lifford town centre.”

Indeed, it claimed that the development would “be complementary to existing retail and commercial activities in the town.

Santa at Arena 7 Oisin Baird meeting Santa while out for a family lunch at Arena 7 in Letterkenny.

One of the biggest water main replacement projects ever to take place in Donegal will get underway in the Finn Valley early in the new year.

Irish Water is set to install new pipes from the Meenglass crossroads in Ballybofey to the Cross, Killygordon, with work planned to commence on January 21.

The work will take place in two phases. Initially, it will concentrate on the section from the Cross to Dreenan.

Traffic lights will be in operation and there will be delays.

The second section, from Navenny to Meenglass crossroads will begin in midMarch.

Again there will be some traffic disruption.

During part of the works the creamery road to Ses-

siaghoneill crossroads will have to be closed for a period of time which will be advertised in advance.

Welcoming the news, Cllr Patrick McGowan, Cathaoirleach of Stranorlar Municipal District Council, said: “This is one of the longest water main replacement projects in the County and one I have been lobbying hard for.

“These works are urgently needed in the Finn Valley area, only last Sunday a large part of the Finn Valley was out of water all day.”

Cllr McGowan has requested that the public are kept up to date in relation to the traffic and work schedule.

Local business will be contacted individually to enable them to make the necessary arrangements due to the traffic disrupion.

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NEWS 7

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Noel Sweeney’s book favourite for Christmas No. 1?

NEWSBRIEFS

“Don’t say you weren’t taul!” flies off the shelves

Christmas Day dinner for people on their own

Noel Sweeney’s recently released autobiography - Don't say you weren't Taul!, Noel Sweeney – A Memoir has this week hit the Number 1 spot in the Eason's Bestseller charts.

The book is flying off the shelves since its launch only a few weeks ago, proving to be a very popular Christmas gift for parents and grandparents alike. Noel said “Finger’s crossed if the book keeps selling this week, I could have my first Christmas No. 1 at the age of 70!”.

In this entertaining book, Noel recalls his early days growing up on a small farm in Ballymaleel outside Letterkenny, his successful career in the wedding band Barney and the Circle as well as his many trials and tribulations in building his well-known driving school business Swilly Drive.

Noel reminisces about the 'the auld days' of being brought up in the 1950's and 1960's, dancing in the Fiesta Ballroom in the mid 1960's and playing music around Donegal in the 1970's and 1980's. He also talks openly about the challenges he faced in life and the many twists and turns in his varied and interesting life.

Noel said, “I’ve been blown away by the response and feedback I've been getting.

I’ve been very humbled by the many compliments and am delighted the book has been

The 13th annual Christmas Day Dinner for people on their own will take place in Conwal Parish Hall, behind the Church of Ireland, on Christmas Day from 1pm to 4pm.

This event is for anyone who may find themselves on their own on New Years Day so come along for a bit of company, good food and a bit of craic.

The event is being sponsored by the Chamber of Commence and the Radisson Blu Hotel.

Transport can be arranged if required. Please contact Kathy on 0868676565 for further information.

Rory Gallagher gig

Donegal singer Rory Gallagher - the former Revs man who later had success with the "Jimmy's Winning Matches" hit - will be performing in the Orchard inn on Saturday, December 29th.

Having spent several years in the Canary Islands, he has now moved back to his native Donegal and has recently been gigging around Ireland and in the UK. Noel Sweeney in Eason's shop in Letterkenny where his book "Don't say you weren't taul!" is proving to be a popular choice.

selling well. The more books we sell, the more money we raise for the various homeless charities and that’s what’s it all about really”.

Noel laughed and said “After spending more than 40 years

striving for success in the music business, it turns out my first Number 1 is in literature. It looking like I choose the wrong career all those years ago! If ever I get my hands on that career planning

teacher that sent me astray back in the 1960s!'

All profits from the book are going to raise much-needed funds for charities supporting the homeless.

Don’t Say You Weren’t Taul!,

Noel Sweeney – A Memoir can be purchased online at www. noelsweeney.ie. The book is also on sale in Eason's book shops, at the Swilly Group offices and all good local book shops.

Antiques and Collectables Fair

An Antiques and Collectables Fair will be held in Letterkenny Community Centre on Sunday, January 6th, from 11.00 am to 5.00 pm.

CALL 074 9127400 OR TEXT 086 2462355 24 Hours a Day

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

8 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

NEWSBRIEFS LYIT Governing Body reappointment Insomnia opens new store

Insomnia Coffee Company has opened its new store in Letterkenny.

Located in the Cathedral Quarter, this is Insomnia’s first store to be open in Donegal.

Speaking about the opening, Harry O’ Kelly, CEO of Insomnia said: “I am delighted to open our first store in Letterkenny, I’m sure this new shop in the shopping centre will be very popular and become a local hub.”

The store will provide employment for five new members of staff.

Egle Maciulyte, the store manager, has worked in the hospitality and coffee industry for nine years and speaking about the opening, she said: "I’m thrilled to be working in such a friendly environment!”

Donegal Oil reunion

A reunion of former Donegal Oil staff members will be held in the Silver Tassie Hotel, on Saturday, March 2. Tickets cost €25 (includes three-course dinner). For more information please contact Mary 086 417 1932, Martina 086 621 9255 or Louise 087 691 2040.

HAVE YOU A STORY? Letterkenny Post

074 911 2700

Maloney to push €20m expansion plans Chris Ashmore chris@letterkennypost.com

Letterkenny Institute of Technology has ambitious plans for capital development including the construction of a €20m extension on the Port Road campus and the development of significant sporting infrastructure at its second site at Knocknamona.

And these plans will be very much at the forefront of priorities for its new Governing Body Chairperson, Fintan Maloney.

This week Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) has announced the reappointment of Mr. Moloney as Governing Body Chairperson for a period of five years.

Speaking about his reappointment, Mr Moloney said: “I am delighted to be reappointed as Chairman of LYIT Governing Body; I have received significant support over the last five years from members of the Governing Body and am enthused by their support for my reappointment.”

Mr Moloney has served in the role since 2013 and has overseen significant developments in the Institute over that time.

His reappointment represents important continuity at a time of significant change for the Institute.

Over the next term LYIT will be deeply involved in the restructuring of the higher education landscape in the Republic of Ireland and on a cross-border basis.

The President of LYIT, Paul Hannigan, has welcomed the re-appointment, saying, “This is a really important appointment for the Institute. Mr Moloney has been an excellent Chair of the Governing

Donegal punter wins whopping €14,143 on €1 bet

Paul Hannigan, LYIT President and Henry McGarvey, VP for Finance & Corporate Services acknowledging the recent reappointment of Fintan Moloney as Governing Body Chairperson for a five-year term commencing November 2018.

Body, undertaking his role through a highly proactive engagement with the college community and its stakeholders. I look forward to working

with him to meet the challenges ahead of us.”

Mr Moloney takes up his post with immediate effect.

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The customer placed a €1 Lucky 15, which had a total stake of €15, on four selections on Tuesday’s racing at Southwell. The four selections were Dashing Poet at 11/1 in the 11.55, Amouri Gleam at 66/1 in the 12.25, Azari at 14/1 in the 1.00 and Red Cymbal at 12/1 in the 1.30.

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Aoife Heffron, Spokesperson for BoyleSports commented: “We have to tip our hats to their savvy selecting and want to wish them and theirs a very Happy Christmas.”

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10 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

NEWSBRIEFS Following the success of Muff Gin….

Stolen car found burnt out in Donegal

Police in Strabane are investigating the theft of a vehicle from Sion Mills which was later found burnt out in Donegal.

The PSNI say on Friday evening last, a silver Toyota Yaris was stolen from an address in the Church Square area of the village and was recovered several hours later having been burnt out in Donegal.

Anyone who may have seen any suspicious between 1am and 7am between on Friday morning last is asked to come forward.

Missing life rings

A former Mayor of Letterkenny has hit out at those responsible for removing life rings at the Old Town Bridge area of thr town.

The life rings were discovered missing last week with Donegal Co. Council now tasked to replace them.

Cllr Gerry McMonagle says the removal of the equipment could potentially put lives at risk.

Computer Training Programme

Students from Royal & Prior Comprehensive School, Raphoe will be conducting a five week computer training programme whereby they will work on a one-to-one basis with people over the age of 55. Courses will begin in January. All courses are free of charge. Places are limited. Contact Age Concern on 014756989 to book your place.

Muff vodka to hit the shelves - just in time for Christmas First there was Muff Gin, but now it has been joined by Muff Vodka.

And this new premium craft drink from Donegal is set to hit the shelves across Ireland and the UK this weekend.

Donegal based craft drinks company The Muff Liquor Company has announced the launch of its new premium craft potato vodka.

Muff Vodka is the latest product creation from the Muff Liquor Company and comes less than a year since their hugely successful launch of their craft potato gin that has taken the Irish and UK spirit drinks markets by storm.

The Muff Liquor Company is the brainchild of Inishowen born entrepreneur Laura Bonner and her business partner Tom Russell from Manchester and since its inception back in February 2017, the company’s specialist distilled spirit has caught the imagination and taste buds of novice and seasoned gin drinkers alike, thanks to their inventive take on a classic distilled gin.

The company is hugely excited to bring their unique tasting Muff Vodka into the market in the run up to Christmas and are overwhelmed with the level of interest in the new drink to

date, with the first shipment already selling out.

Described as being “creamy, earthy and smooth”, Muff Vodka gets its unique taste from being distilled six times using four types of Irish potato with a hint of vanilla.

Company co-owner Laura Bonner said it’s a hugely exciting time for the company and despite being in its infancy, she says the company has gone from strength to strength not only in getting their Muff Gin brand and product widely recognised across the industry but in developing the company’s reputation, client base and securing investment.

She said: “We are really proud to launch our Muff Vodka product into the market. 2018 has been a really busy but rewarding year for the company and we have enjoyed great success with Muff Gin and are really confident moving forward into 2019 with our additional new craft premium vodka.

He is keen to further develop in 2019 when the company looks to expand by entering new regions including South East Asia and Australia, China, Hong Kong and Japan.

Reaction

The response from the public has been phenomenal and we are really confident that the Muff Vodka product will allow us to expand further and reach out to a new audience. Securing the business award earlier

Charlie McConalogue TD Working for Inishowen

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year from Charlie McConalogue T.D. Constituency Office: Market Square, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal 074 91 77282 Chapel Street, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal 074 93 73131 E: charliemcconalogue@oireachtas.ie

this week has also been a huge boost as we draw to the end of what has been a fantastic year for the Muff Liquor Company.

The launch of this exciting new product comes less than a

www.facebook.com/charliemcconalogue

Cancer Care West say thank you for your support during 2018.

The Staff of Cancer Care West’s Support Centre Letterkenny wish those who use our services and their families well for Christmas.

We look forward to working for you and with you in 2019.

week after the company’s success in Dublin, when it secured a Business All-Star Accreditation from the All Ireland Business Foundation in recognition of their business success.

She added: “The Business All Star Accreditation is very significant for us. Not only does it acknowledge the work we have done to date and our business plan but also the hard work and commitment of our staff. It’s also a huge stamp of approval from the industry in our product and our company,” she added.

The accreditation is just one of a number of prestigious accolades secured by the company.

Earlier this year the Muff Liquor Company won Gold in the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America Exposition in Las Vegas and were Gold winners in the Asia Gin Masters held in Hong Kong in October.

Business co-owner Tom Russell says Muff Liquor Company is hugely excited about 2019 and expanding the business further.

He is confident Muff Vodka further enhances the company’s original brand and provide the company with an opportunity to tap into a new audience.

He says key to the success of the company is its unique identity and experiential, personalised and fun reputation which he is keen to further develop

in 2019 when the company looks to expand by entering new regions including South East Asia and Australia, China, Hong Kong and Japan. Muff Vodka will be in shops, bars and restaurants across Ireland and the UK from this week.

Donegal beauty wows Miss Universe judges Rory Mooney editor@letterkennypost.com

Donegal stunner Grainne Gallanagh wowed the judges of the Miss Universe competition.

The 24-year-old Buncrana women placed in Europe’s Top 5 competitors, as well as the entire competition’s Top 20 in the glitzy ceremony in Thailand.

Grainne shared an emotional statement on Instagram about her experience.

“I don’t even know where to start. This day last year I was on holidays watching @missuniverse online and I said to @ ryancoleman4734 “I am going to be there next year” – and here I am. What an experience,” Grainne wrote.

“Making the top 20 in the most prestigious pageant in the world is an accomplishment I can’t put into words.

Thank you to everyone for all of your support and kind words.

“I am absolutely speechless at the amount of support I have received from everyone at home in Buncrana, family around the world, people I have never even met. Thank you all, I promise I will get

Grianne Gallanagh.

back to everyone eventually.

Humble Grainne also thanked her family for travelling to Thailand to be with her.

“Thank you to my family for travelling all the way to Thailand and always believing in

me.

“Thank you to everyone in Ireland for believing in me to represent our beautiful wee Emerald Isle,” the nurse said.

Grainne signed off by joking she is now able to eat as much food as she wants.

11

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

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12 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

NEWSBRIEFS From a summer job to an industry leading position Payments to Anglo Junior Bondholders “a betrayal” Donegal TD claims

Donegal TD Pearse Doherty has said confirmation that the junior bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank will be paid is a betrayal of the Irish people who bailed out the bank at a cost of €35bn between Anglo and Irish Nationwide.

Deputy Doherty said: "We are talking about €285m being paid out to bondholders who toughed it out gambling that there would be scraps to be made out of the carnage of the banking crash.

"Now they are being rewarded by the Irish State with an early Christmas present."

Over €700 raised from Tesco Christmas appeal

Tesco in Letterkenny has raised €783 worth of donations for local charities as part of Tesco Ireland’s annual Christmas Appeal. Some of the organisations benefiting from the appeal in Donegal include: Doorway Project, Onet and St Johnson & Carrigans Family Resource Centre.

Shoppers were asked to donate a product in-store to their local charitable organisation.

Food, toiletries, nappies, small clothing items and toys were donated as part of the threeday appeal.

Major honour for Donegal hotel’s managing director A career which began with a 1989 three-month summer job at a small local hotel has seen a Donegal woman rise to the pinnacle of the Irish hospitality sector.

Deirdre McGlone, Managing Director at Harvey’s Point Hotel, has been honoured as a thought leader in tourism and hospitality by the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation after overseeing the growth of Harvey’s Point from 20 bedrooms and a small restaurant to a luxurious resort with 64 palatial suites.

And the Foundation has further recognised Harvey’s Point by naming it among the first businesses in the country to achieve their new quality mark, the Business All-Star, signifying they meet the highest standards of service and trust.

Companies and business leaders from across Ireland were honoured with recognition as All-Ireland Business All-Stars, Thought Leaders and Lifetime Achievers by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

The achievements of 36 companies and eight business leaders were celebrated at an All-Ireland Business Foundation ceremony in Croke Park.

The All-Ireland Business All-Star network facilitates indigenous Irish companies which have attained their independent quality mark meet to discuss ideas. Their independently verified standard mark for indigenous businesses is based on rigorous selection criteria and signifies that a business has met the highest standards.

The adjudication panel is chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics.

The All-Ireland Business Foundation

Deirdre McGlone of Harvey’s Point receiving All-Ireland Business Foundation Accreditation at Croke Park from Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Minister of State for Trade, Employment and Business, Pat Breen. Deirdre was also recognised with an All-Ireland Business Foundation All-Star Award as a Thought Leader in Tourism and Hospitality. PHOTO: Conor McCabe.

will host the All-Ireland Business Summit on May 1 and 2 next year.

At the Croke Park event, Minister of State for Trade, Employment and Business, Pat Breen, said the commitment to quality of the small to medium en-

Fantastic Festive Fun

terprise sector was critical to the Irish economy.

“Ireland has the fastest growing economy in Europe and one of the fastest rates of business start-ups,” said Minister Breen

“I am very proud of all the businesses here today, their commitment to quality, as evidenced by gaining coveted All-Ireland Business All-Star accreditation, will ensure Irish SMEs continue to grow.”

FAITHmatters

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The gospel reading for next Sunday 23rd December is taken from St Luke.

“Mary set out and went to a town in the hill country of Judah. She went into Zachariah’s house and greeted Elizabeth. Now as soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. She gave a loud cry and said, ‘Of all women you are the most blessed, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord? For the moment your greeting reached my ears, the child in my womb leapt for joy.

Yes, blessed is she who believed that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

Faith matters publishes the reflection from Reality, the Redemptorist publication:“The visitation story is not just an account of a meeting of two women delighted that they are soon to become mothers. It is also a meeting of another sort, the meeting of Jesus and his still unborn herald, a meeting of the old faith of Israel, represented by Elizabeth, and the new faith of those who will follow Jesus in the person of Mary.

“Elizabeth can be rather overlooked in the Visitation story. Today’s liturgy, however, focus its attention on her. Elizabeth’s child moves at the sound of Mary’s greeting. At that moment, she is filled with the Holy Spirit. This phase is

normally only used of prophets, so it is Luke’s way of saying that Elizabeth takes her place among the women prophets of Israel.

“She returns Mary’s greeting with a word of congratulations (sometimes called a ‘beatitude’ because it begins with the words ‘blessed are you…..’) praising both Mary and her child. Elizabeth declares Mary ‘blessed among women’.

“Elizabeth also realises the importance of the child Mary is carrying: she is the first person to address him as ‘Lord’ (the title of the risen and glorified Christ). She then declares Mary blessed a second time because ‘she believed that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled’.

“This short reading is very rich. It contains in a nutshell all the future teachings of the church about Mary – she is to be reverenced because she is the Mother of the Lord, she is also a believer, the first member of the community of the church and she is the link between old faithful Israel and the new community of the church. Just as Mary and Elizabeth reverence what the Lord has done in each of them, the church must always recognise that his promise to the Jewish people was never withdrawn.”

That last beautiful sentence should help to remind us of the need to constantly guard against anti-Semitism.

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

13

14 NEWS/COMMENT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Another voice

by Jonny McCollum of Letterkenny New Life Fellowship.

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

How will you respond?

Pictured, from left: Brian O'Donnell, Donegal Co. Council Road Safety Officer, John Miller, Inspector Road Policing, Harry Rutherford, Vice Chairman Road Safety NI and Garda Inspector, Michael Harrison at the launch. PHOTO Clive Wasson.

Donegal Road Working Groups launches drink driving campaign The Donegal Road Safety Working Group (DRSWG) launched their annual Christmas drink driving campaign along the Inishowen/Derry border this week.

The DRSWG are urging drivers to be aware of the affects that alcohol can have the morning after a night of drinking.

The appeal is for motorists to drive responsibly over the Christmas and New Year period as alcohol continues to be a significant contributory factor in fatal collisions.

Gardaí will be increasing the number of checkpoints over the Christmas period, which will be run on a 24/7 basis and Gardaí can breath test any

driver that has committed any road traffic offence.

Garda Inspector Michael Harrison said: “During this Christmas period I ask all drivers not to put their and other people’s lives in danger by drinking and driving."

Brian O’Donnell, Donegal County Council Road Safety Officer said: "The advice and bottom line is, don’t drink and drive.

"I would also appeal to passengers, not to take a lift from a driver who has been drinking, if you do, you are putting your life in the hands of a drunk driver.

To date, 10 people have tragically been killed in Donegal to date.

No doubt many readers will be attending nativity plays in the next few days and no doubt they’ve been there many times before.

Perhaps one play blends into another - after all, the central story remains the same.

Yet, the story is well worth pondering.

The events in Bethlehem 2000 years ago were no accident and the baby in the manger was no ordinary child.

He was and is God himself, the Saviour of the world.

All of life boils down to one question and one question only: what do you think of Jesus?

Perhaps as you watch your little ones perform this week, you could ask yourself that question.

To help, let me mention three different responses you may well see in the nativity play itself.

The first response was Herod’s. This was a man with an enormous chip on his shoulder and a deep fear in his heart. You see, Herod was king…but only just.

He was deeply unpopular with his subjects and he only held his throne because he was willing to take orders from the Romans. They really ran the show and backed him with their ferocious troops.

At the end of the day, Herod owed everything to a foreign army who had shed Jewish blood.

You couldn’t get a more obvious target!

So, when Herod heard about this “newborn king”, is it any wonder he responded like he did? He didn’t see good news, he saw a threat to his throne. Tragically for

Herod, his pride stopped him from worshipping the saviour God had sent.

Could it be that your pride does the same? Are you so frightened of admitting your own inadequacy that you miss out on the wonderful gift of salvation?

The second response was the Jewish religious leaders.

They had heard God’s promises of a saviour and they knew about the strange goings on in Bethlehem.

Yet, they were nowhere to be seen. They didn’t come with gifts, they didn’t bow down to worship. They

missed out on meeting the Saviour because they were too apathetic to do anything about it.

Of course there are many like that today: they know the story, but it doesn’t impact their lives in any meaningful way. They’re too caught up with trinkets and toys. Is your apathy stopping you from receiving the greatest gift of all?

The third response was the wise men. These men were foreigners, probably from Iraq. They were the last people you would expect to arrive on the scene. Yet, they got it! They saw Jesus for who he really was - the saviour of all the nations.

And so, they came to worship. They didn’t let their backgrounds, their previous mistakes, or their lack of religious knowledge hold them back. When they saw the Saviour, they bowed before him. Even the most unusual of suspects can have the joy of meeting the Saviour!

So there you have it, three responses to Jesus Christ.

Hostility. Apathy. Worship.

How will you respond?

NEWS 15

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Nominations now being sought for 2019 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Nominations for the prestigious 2019 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards are now open.

Organisers are keen for the public to put forward individuals or groups from our international diaspora who have excelled in their chosen field be that business, commerce, industry, education, politics, finance or sport and deserve recognition for their achievements.

Each year Donegal Co. Council hosts the awards ceremony, which were first introduced in 2012, to mark the centenary of the birth of the late Tip O’Neill who was a liberal Democrat and an influential member of the

Former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Tip O'Neill.

US House of Representatives. His maternal grandparents came from County Donegal.

Cllr Nicholas Crossan, Chair of the Tip O’Neill Awards Committee, believes that receiving the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award has a special significance for the chosen recipients.

“Tip O’Neill was a man of greatness," he said. "Throughout his long and distinguished career, he spoke to and for both the Irish community and all those who were vulnerable in the United States.

"His vision and his determination to make Ireland a better place were crucial in the negotiations that led to the Anglo Irish Agreement in 1985 and the establishment of the International Fund for Ireland.

"To receive an award inspired by the outstanding achievements of this man has a special meaning for all the recipients.

"We are keen to invite the public to put forward their own nominations for individuals from our international diaspora who have excelled in their field and who they believe should be recognised and acknowledged in this way."

Cllr Crossan added: "Members of the committee are now anxious that the 2019 Tip O Neill award will recieve nominations from all over the world and help connect our Irish family near and far.

"We are also delighted to have Tommy O'Neill (son) his wife Shelly and other members of the O'Neill family coming to Buncrana to present this coveted award.

I would like to thank former winners and thank them for their particaption.

"We are looking forward to another successful event in September so now is your chance to nominate."

2018 saw not one but three members of the diaspora honoured including professional golfer Paul Mc Ginley, former Governor of Maryland Martin O’ Malley and Boston based Homes of Donegal Fundraising committee.

Past recipients

Previous recipients include journalist and publisher Niall O’Dowd, former Governor of Montana Brian Schweitzer, former president of the Massachusetts Senate Senator Therese Murray, US based philanthropist Loretta Brennan Glucksman and the US political commentator Chris Matthews, former Ireland goalkeeper Packie Bonner, Senior Vice President Prudential Financial Barbara Koster, Scottish entrepreneur Fraser Doherty, and former President of the University of Massachussetts Martin Meehan.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal Co. Council, Cllr Seamus O’Domhnaill believes that the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards are not only a fitting tribute in commemorating the life of one of Donegal’s most illustrious sons but are an important way of recognising and acknowledging the outstanding achievements and contributions made by the Irish diaspora across the globe.

“Each year this award is presented to members of the Irish diaspora who have achieved prominence or recognition in the area of business, commerce, industry, education, politics, finance or sport and they have become an important highlight in the Council’s calendar of events,” he said.

Nominations can be made on line at www. irishdiasporaaward.com and the closing date for receipt of nomination forms is March 29.

Horn Head.

1,219 property sales worth €143.5m recorded in Donegal The sale of Lurgabreack on Horn Head in Dunfanaghy is the largest one-off property transaction recorded in Donegal so far this year.

Data from the Property Price Register, analysed by property website MyHome. ie, shows that the coastal property, which offers uninterrupted views of Killahoey Beach and beyond to the village of Dunfanaghy, sold for €750,000 in July.

There were only three other transactions in the county larger but all were for developments, including 21 homes in Gleann na Greine, Mullindrait, Stranorlar, which sold for €2.4 million in November.

Other large one-off sales included Hillmount Manse on New Line Road in Letterkenny, which sold for €670,000 in May.

Drumardagh in Letterkenny, which sold for €390,000 in September, Delta View in Magherabeg, Manorcunningham which sold for €372,500 in July and Forest Hill in Corracramph, Tawnawilly which sold for €365,000 in May. As of the Property Price Register update of November 28th, just over €143.5 million had been spent on property so far this year in Donegal.

There were 1,219 sales recorded as of that date, which still has some way to go to surpass the total number of 1,325 transactions recorded in the county in 2017.

Brexit

The Managing Director of MyHome.ie, Angela Keegan said uncertainty over the outcome of Brexit negotiations was impacting the market, es-

pecially at the upper end.

“That uncertainty is hitting the upper end more I think while the impact of the tightening of the Central Bank lending rules and an increase in stock means house price inflation generally, is slowing around the country. In Q1 asking prices nationally were up 9.5%. By the end of Q3 the rate of inflation had slowed to 5.9% year on year.

“Double or high single digit inflation is not sustainable so the current trend is positive for the property market as a whole.

“I think 2018 will be remembered as the year when the stock of both new builds and second-hand homes turned the corner. Second-hand stock nationally is up 6% while the number of new home schemes continues to rise,” she said.

Declan Hutton and Oran McGonagle who accepted the 2018 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award on behalf of the Boston based Homes of Donegal Fundraising committee.

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Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

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Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

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18 NEWS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

NEWSBRIEFS Telephone counselling service

Telephone counselling and support service Connect is to extend its hours during Christmas to open every evening through until Sunday, January 6.

Connect is a free, confidential and professional telephone-based counselling and support service for adults who were abused in childhood and will open from 6-10pm throughout the festive period.

People can call Connect for free at 1800 477 477. Callers will get to speak with a trained counsellor who can listen and provide professional counselling and support.

Service Director Marie Percival said: “Christmas is a particularly sensitive period in terms of public need for the service. We want to ensure that we are there for people if they need our support.”

From Northern Ireland and the UK people can call 00 800 477 477 77. Connect’s normal opening hours are 6-10pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Connect was established in 2006 following demands from groups representing survivors of institutional abuse that an independent and professional out of hours telephone basedservice be established. It is funded by the HSE. More information at www. connectcounselling.ie

Sad passing of Jamesie Doherty

Tributes have been flowing in following the untimely passing of Jamesie Doherty of Keelogs, Churchill who lost his battle with illness earlier this week.

A popular family man, he was particularly well known due to his bus hire company, and literally thousands of people have made trips in his buses down through the years.

He died at the Donegal Hospice having borne his illness with great dignity.

Requiem Mass will take place in St Colmcille’s Church, Glendowan at 12 noon today (Thursday) followed by burial in Conwall Cemetery.

His strong links with schools and sporting clubs go back many years.

And St. Eunan’s GAA club PRO, Paul McGovern, aptly and compassionately, summed up the feelings of many with his heartfelt comments that he posted on the club’s website in relation to the sad news.

“Most of us have known Jamesie since we were kids, first hopping on one of his old orange buses at 9 or 10 or 11 years of age,” he wrote.

“He took us the length and breadth of Ireland in his buses

for the club, for the school, for Donegal matches... you name it, he took us there! We spent so much time on Jamesie’s buses, if you weren’t being taught good manners at home, Jamesie wouldn’t be long telling what was what!

He continued: “But he didn’t just take us to the games, he got to know us. He knew all our names, he followed our teams and he delighted in our victories, he consoled us in our defeats - he always reminded us we’d be on the bus another day soon with a chance to get a win, and that defeat would be forgotten.

“He cared and so, even though we knew the boundaries, and rarely dared to cross them for fear of a tongue lashing - we cared too.

“He loved to take a scud out of you if you gave him half a chance and his laugh was infectious, he loved the craic and the camaraderie on the bus and so did we.”

People connected with Glenwilly, Termon, St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny Blaze (basketball) and many other clubs will have learned of his passing with a sense of great loss.

Sincere sympathy is extended to his family and friends.

The late Jamesie Doherty. PHOTO: St. Eunan's GAA Club/Geraldine Diver.

The great outdoors – sharing from the start There was great excitement in Ray Outdoor School last week when children from Bomany Nursery and Montessori School and Park School came to visit the forest as part of a new initiative called ‘Sharing from the Start’.

The project is about building relationships with children and adults from different backgrounds and aims to improve educational outcomes for young children by engaging shared education.

The children loved the outdoor setting and got to make their own Christmas candle centrepieces using materials from their natural surroundings.

For more information on the Early Learning Schools, free ECCE places or the benefits of outdoor education contact Sally O’Donnell on 086 858 9339 or email sally@earlylearningschools.ie.

All wrapped up well and enjoying the outdoor education.

It was a great day for everyone at Ray Outdoor School.

Making the front cover!

Liam O'Donnell manager at the Letterkenny Community Centre takes a look though the lens of a vintage camera to focus on the 37th Letterkenny Christmas Annual edited by Jim Lynch which is now on sale. PHOTO: Brian McDaid.

Story time with Mrs. Claus Clodagh Boyle enjoyed ‘Story Time with Mrs Claus’ in the Donegal County Museum and she was delighted to be put on Santa’s Nice List!

PICTURE SPECIAL 19

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

& About

Ballymacool Respite House Christmas Party

Out

Photos: Darren Crossan

Ballymacool Respite house staff member Emier O'Donnell meeting Santa at the Christmas party.

Ciaran Morning giving Santa a hug at Arena7.

Galen McColgan meeting Santa at the Ballymacool Respite House Christmas Party.

Piotr Hadi and Santa Claus at the Ballymcool Respite House Christmas Party.

Killian Doggan getting a present from Santa.

Luke and Zach Cullen waiting on the arrival of Santa to their Christmas Party.

Santa pictured with the staff at Ballymacool Respite House at the Christmas Party in Arena7.

Santa giving a present to Christopher Cullen.

20 PICTURE SPECIAL

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS

EVENTS

Rathmullan Polar Plunge

Photos: Clive Wasson

Charlie McConalogue, TD and Seamus Campbell at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

Conor, Patrick and Caolan McGlynn at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

Millie, Joan and Davie Cowan at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

It may have been cold, but it was worth it!

Taking the Polar Plunge in Rathmullan in Special Olympics fundraiser Garda Plungers at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

Santa with Robert O'Neill and Fergal harte at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

Joshua Smyth with Santa at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

Over 90 brave fundraisers from Rathmullan and beyond embraced the December chill and took on the challenge to plunge into the sea last Saturday to raise vital funds for local Special Olympics athletes.

Taking place once again at Rathmullan Pier, the freezing fundraiser challenged the public to ‘get freezin’ for a reason’ in support of athletes with an intellectual disability.

Participants and supporters were joined at the event by members of An Garda Siochana and the Defence Forces who took the Plunge on the day.

The Polar Plunge in Rathmullan last Saturday was a real community affair with plungers bravely getting chilly in the Swilly and raising funds for Special Olympics Ulster. this was the biggest plunge ever in this area. Donations are still coming and the sup-

Garda take the plunge at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge.

Ellie and Lia Boyle from Kincasla with Santa at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

port was incredible.

The organisers would like to thank every single plunger, sponsor and volunteer from the Irish Navy through to the

An Garda Siochanna that made this event such a success!

Funds raised by this year’s Polar Plunge will go towards the continuation of the Spe-

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS

EVENTS

PICTURE SPECIAL 21 Rathmullan Polar Plunge

Photos: Clive Wasson

Plungers with Santa, bear Chills and Danny O'Carroll pictured at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan.

cial Olympics programme, which currently sees more than 1,900 athletes training on a weekly basis in Special Olympics clubs across Ulster.

This upcoming year is also a particularly exciting one in the Special Olympics calendar, with 20 Ulster athletes joining a 91-strong Team Ireland squad to travel to the Special Olympics World Games from 14th-21st March, the highest level of sporting competition for Special Olympics athletes.

The delegation is led by Special Olympics Ulster staff member Emma McMenamin and includes Letterkenny native Patrick Quinlivan of Salto Special Olympics Club who will represent the Team in gymnastics and basketball player Leon McDaid from Convoy.

Ulster Regional Fundraising Coordinator, Samantha Robinson said: “I would like to thank everyone who turned out for this year’s Polar Plunge and participated with such enthusiasm. The Polar Plunge is one of our favourite fundraising events and one that we look forward to every year, so it was fantastic to see that so many people willing to participate and take the plunge.

“2019 will be an especially exciting year for Special Olympics Ireland with preparations beginning for the upcoming World Games in March. Attendance at sporting events like the World Games simply would not be possible without the support of the public and for that we are truly grateful.”

Special Olympics Ulster is a sports organisation for people with an intellectual disability that gives athletes the chance to train in sport and improve their quality of life. The athletes’ families involved with the organisation build an invaluable network of friendship and support while athletes are given a platform to demonstrate courage, experience joy and share long lasting friendships.

Smiling faces after there dip at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

ABOVE: Army cadets at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

LEFT: Karen Crawford and Anne Marie Ward take the plunge!

Comander, Ken Minehane and Stewart Donaldson, Execuitve Office with the Campbell and O'Mahoney families at the L.E. Eithne after the Special Olympics Polar Plunge.

Ray Durack at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Rathmullan on Saturday last.

22 PICTURE SPECIAL

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

LOCAL

Champions Travel Customer Appreciation Day

EVENTS

Photos: Geraldine Diver

Champions Travel Joseph O Donnell Sales, Kevin Ward Managing Director and Ann Kelly accounts at the Customer appreciation day in aid of the North West Simon Community and St Vincent De Paul.

Cliodhna Connolly with Santa at Champions Travel.

Mark and John Gregg at Champions Travel.

Collette Ferguson North West Simon Community, with Olga Hossack, Letterkenny St Vincent De Paul Shop Manager.

Aoibhean, Kaylene and Aisling Connolly at Champions Travel.

Emer and Aisling Ferry at Champions Travel appreciation day.

Brett Smith and Lyda Sweeney Smith at Champions Travel.

Colin Eoghan and Michelle Sweeney.

The Brogan family enjoying the Champions Travel Customer Appreciation Day.

Terence and Anthony Diver at the Champions Travel Customer Appreciation Day.

PICTURE SPECIAL 23

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

LOCAL

EVENTS

Photos: Geraldine Diver

Champions Travel Customer Appreciation Day

Kathleen Ponsonby St Vincent de Paul with Kevin Ward Champions Travel Managing Director and staff at the companies customer appreciation day for St Vincent De Paul and North West Simon Community. Photo Geraldine Diver.

THe Champions Travel Group.

Champions Travel Staff.

Dannan Mc Glinchey at Champions Travel with the Premier League Replica Trophy.

The young Arsenal supporters enjoying the fun at Champions Travel appreciation day.

Evelyn and Andrew Cassidy at Champions Travel customer appreciation day.

Yes Chef cooking for charity at the Champions Travel Apprecialtion Day in aid of the Northwest Simon Community and St Vincent De Paul.

24

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

25

26 PICTURE SPECIAL LOCAL

EVENTS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Donegal Mascot meets families in Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure The team at Michael Murphy Sports & Leisure had a busy weekend with lots of children and families calling in-store to get their picture taken with the Donegal Mascot in his handmade Christmas jumper.

The Letterkenny sports shop has everything you need this Christmas with a great range of sports gear and accessories for adults and children.

Shop online at michaelmurphysports.ie.

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

LOCAL

EVENTS

PICTURE SPECIAL 27 Donegal Mascot meets families in Michael Murphy Sports and Leisure

28 PETS/COOKERY

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Website: www.animalsinneeddonegal.com

ANIMALS IN NEED Jacquie Knox Animals In Need

A very Merry Christmas to you from all at Animals In Need (AIN) and a huge thank you to everyone who supported the charity during the year.

AIN would also like to thank their dedicated small band of unpaid volunteers, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes; rescuing, fostering, fundraising, running the charity shops, driving the van etc.

Thank you for lavishing so much love on the rescued animals, for many of whom it was the first kindness they have known in their lives.

Merry Christmas to you all!

One of our rescued dogs will be having a wonderful life this Christmas, as older collie Jubbie was adopted on Friday last and will be spending Christmas in his own home.

10-year old Jubbie was rescued from the Letterkenny Pound a month or so ago. He was probably an ex-working dog who had outlived his usefulness and therefore found himself dumped in the Pound as a thanks for a lifetime of loyalty and hard work.

He was extremely dirty, smelly and matted when he was rescued. His coat was so clumped that he had to be shaved and after a good bath, a new, much happier, dog emerged.

Jubbie also had a slight hip problem and needed a dental at the vets but otherwise he wasn't in bad shape.

But despite his dishevelled appearance and a few age-related ailments, Jubbie's personality shone through right from the start and his fosterer found him to be an amazing dog.

Fourteen dogs headed off the Dogs Trust's rehoming centre.

AIN are delighted that he has found a home and wish Jubbie a very happy Christmas in his retirement home with his new family.

Fourteen more rescue dogs received their Pet Passports and set off in the Dog Trust's ambulance to their UK rehoming centre, where they will all be found families of their own.

Many thanks to the Dogs Trust for their help this year and for taking over the hub that AIN was renting, which has enabled the charity to continue to save all the Letterkenny Pound dogs.

There has been no rest for the cat rescuers in the run up to the festive

season either.

Six more kittens were rescued but there is also good news as four cats were adopted this week.

Stray cats seem to have been browsing at the Christmas displays this week as a number of felines were found wandering around in or near shops.

One young cat strolled into the chemist in Donegal Town. He is neutered and microchipped but unfortunately the microchip hasn't been registered. He is good condition and was obviously well cared for so it would be fantastic if he could be reuinited with his family for Christmas.

If you recognise this cat, please contact the cat helpline.

Another kitten walked into Supervalu Shopping Centre in Donegal Town at the weekend and made herself at home.

This kitten is friendly but must have been lost for some time as she was dehydrated, had a broken tooth and was very dirty, most likely due to having travelled in a car engine.

She is now safely at the cattery.

A third kitten was found hiding under the shopping trolleys at Aldi in Ballybofey and was caught and brought to an AIN foster home.

An injured kitten was found on the roadside on the outskirts of Dungloe during the week.

Unfortunately her back leg was beyond saving and had to be amputated. She is a lovely little kitten of around 7-weeks old and is making a good recovery.

This is the final week to purchase lines for our Christmas draw. There are some great prizes and all money raised goes towards the care of the rescued animals.

AIN's pet toy collection is still in full swing and toys and treats for the rescued animals can be donated up until Christmas Eve. Please note AIN's charity shops will be closed for 2 weeks over Christmas from Saturday, 22nd December.

NOLLAIG SHONA! To help AIN’s animals, please donate €2 to AIN’s ‘Help Us To Help Them’ fundraising appeal via your phone by texting the word ‘KITTEN’ to 50300.

Every last cent goes directly to the rescued animals for their food, bedding, vet bills, worming treatment and vaccinations.

Jubbie will be celebrating Christmas with his new family.

Cat found in the Chemists in Donegal Town.

For further information on adoption, fostering, volunteering etc, please contact the main helpline on 087 1356188. For cat/kitten enquiries please call 087 7644420.

Animals In Need Donegal is also on Facebook and has a website at http://www.animalsinneeddonegal.com.

HomeCOOKING INGREDIENTS 100g (4oz) unsalted butter (softened) 225g (8oz) icing sugar, sieved 3-5 tablespoons of brandy (I use Hennessy)

by Barbara Collins

BRANDY BUTTER I always make this for Christmas. It is sinfully rich and laden with calories but it is only once a year. I actually don’t like it with Christmas pudding. I prefer it spread onto cinnamon scones for a lovely start to Christmas Day. Use the best brandy you can and always use unsalted butter. Don’t bother taking out bulky food processers. Do this the old-fashioned way and you will at least burn off some of the calories. Thanks to Mary Berry for the recipe.

METHOD Put the butter into a large mixing bowl. Beat well with a wooden spoon until nice and soft. Then beat in the sieved icing sugar until the mixture is smooth and then add the brandy to serve.

This will keep in the fridge for a fortnight and you can freeze it for up to one month. Thaw it overnight before use.

Contact Barbara:- Twitter: @thegoodchinaset | Email: barbara@thegoodchinaset.com

CINEMA 29

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

MOVIE

MARY POPPINS RETURNS When personal tragedy strikes the now grown up Michael and Jane Banks, the enigmatic nanny Mary Poppins re-enters the Banks family’s lives and uses her unique magical skills to help them rediscover joy and wonder.

With optimistic street lamplighter Jack by her side, she introduces the family to a new assortment of colourful and whimsical characters, including her eccentric cousin Topsy.

OF THE

WEEK Director: Rob Marshall Starring: Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep, Dick Van Dyke Genre: Fantasy, Adventure Run Time: 130 minutes Release Date: December 21

• Dolby Digital SurrounD SounD • Wheelchair acceSS • Free Parking • looP SyStem For harD oF hearing • ViP Screen hire

24 hr inFormation: 074 91 25050 aDVance booking: 074 91 21976 Web: WWW.centurycinemaS.ie email: inFo@centurycinemaS.ie

KIDS Club Smallfoot

G 96 mins sat/sun 11:35am

Friday 21 december 2018 to SUNDAY 23 december 2018 mary POPPins ReTURns

Cinema TiCkeTs

spider-man: into The spider-verse

aquaman 12a 145mins fri/Sat/Sun 2pm, 5:15pm, 8:35pm

G 130mins fri/Sat 1:40, 3:10 4:30, 6pm, 8:30 & Sun 1:40pm, 4:30pm, 6pm, 8:30pm

the Nutcracker aNd the four realmS PG 99 mins sat/sun 11:40am

ADMISSION - €2.50

The grinch

PG 117mins fri/Sun 12:50pm, 3:30pm, 6:10pm & Sat 12:50pm, 3:30pm

G 90mins fri/Sat/Sun 1:45pm, 4pm, 6:10pm & 8:40pm

mUsT Be

WOn! To win a family pass simply answer the following question

Which family does Mary Poppins visit?

Send the answer along with your name, address, and contact number to: Century Cinema Competition, C/O The Editor, Letterkenny Post 26 Balliniska Road Springtown Industrial Estate Derry N. Ireland BT48 0NA

CONGRATULATIONS to the winner of last week’s competition

Aoife Murphy

Ballymacool, Letterkenny Last Week’s Answer: Rowan Atkinson

Ralph Breaks The internet: Wreck-it Ralph 2

mortal engines

PG 115mins fri/Sat/Sun 1:30pm, 4pm, 6:30pm & Sun 9pm

a star is Born 15a 135mins Sat/Sun 8:55pm

12a 130mins fri 3pm, 5:45pm, 8:30pm & Sat/Sun 8:30pm

12a 129mins fri/Sat 12:50pm, 6:15pm & Sun 3:30pm, 6:15pm.

elf PG 92mins Sat 6pm & Sun 2pm

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

creed 2

Love actually 15 135mins Sat 9pm & Sun 6pm

Bohemian Rhapsody 12a 134mins fri/Sat/Sun 9pm

12a 134mins fri/Sat/Sun 12:30, 3:30pm, 8:50

Odiyan - malayalam 12a 167mins Sat 12:30pm & Sun 12 noon

30 PICTURE SPECIAL LOCAL

EVENTS

Photos: Darren Crossan

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Arena 7 Christmas Disco

Princess Niamh Shiels and Santa at Arena7

Cora and Sophie pictured with Santa at Arena7

Demi Lee and Santa

Aoife,Cathal and Oran pictured with Santa at Arena7

Oran tells Santa what he wants for Christmas

Lubdhak Jyoti De and Tanbuika Roy and Santa at Arena7

PICTURE SPECIAL 31

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

LOCAL

EVENTS

Photos: Darren Crossan

Danni Doherty and Santa at Arean7

Arena 7 Christmas Disco

All smiles with Santa at the Arena7 Christmas Disco

Corey Kelly and Santa at Arena7

Ernn O'Donnell and Emila Redmond pictured with Santa at Arena7

Santa pictured with Harry at Arena7

Barry McMonagle, Maria Kelly, Kelly Anne McMonagle and Emily McMonagle at the Arena 7 Christmas Disco

32 BUSINESS/KIDS

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

LYIT successful in bid for EU Funding for SMARTrenew Project Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) has announced that it will lead out a €1.6 million EU project, SMARTrenew, funded by the Northern Periphery Area (NPA) Interreg programme.

This successful competitive bid, won under the stewardship of project leader Dr Nick Timmons of the WiSAR Lab at LYIT, will fund the adoption of smart innovative renewable technology in rural regions of Northern Europe, which are over reliant on fossil fuels for heating and energy.

It is also particularly rewarding that the project will address the real issues of energy poverty and security experienced in the North West cross border area, as well as many other areas of the country. SMARTrenew will bring innovation in the smart delivery and storage of renewable energy.

Sharing of ideas

The consortium consists of organisations such as universities, research institutes, local authorities, SMEs, and national energy authorities from six countries: Norway, Finland, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland.

They all have complementary skills and experience in delivering renewable energy solutions and a major component of the project will be the transnational sharing of ideas and innovative solutions between the partner regions.

The consortium leading out the multinational EU project SMARTrenew funded by the Northern Periphery Area (NPA) Interreg programme. Back row left to right: Bjarti Thomsen, Environmental Agency, Faroe Islands; Ragnar Asmundsson, HeatRD, Iceland, Sigurour Frioleifsson, Orkusetur, Iceland; Oystein Kleven, NORUT, Norway, John Gallagher, Donegal County Council; Paddy Mullen, Donegal County Council. Front row left to right: Heather Young, DCSDC; Leo Strawbridge, DCSDC; Elaine Whoriskey, Nick Timmons & Jim Morrison, LYIT.

This will allow countries with lower levels of renewables maturity to benefit directly from their further advanced partners.

This is a strategically important win for the region as Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Councils are all part of the consortium. Speaking about the announcement, Dr Nick Timmons, Project Leader for LYIT, outlined, “This is a timely success for not only for LYIT but also for the region. For over ten years the WiSAR Lab @LYIT

has been delivering innovative wireless technology solutions into many industries including in the area of renewable energy; now with this project there is an opportunity to make real difference not only to the lives of the citizens of these regions and their environments, but also to the local economies”.

The main aims of this threeyear project are to: • generate greater awareness amongst communities and local authorities of renewable systems;

• to illustrate that local energy poverty can be decreased, and energy security increased in dispersed communities by implementing smart renewable energy and heat storage management; • to ensure reduced energy waste in emerging renewable energy solutions for residences and public buildings.

This is a positive milestone in terms of research activity for LYIT. Speaking about this project, Dr Pádraig Ó Gallchóir, Head of Research and Innovation, commented, “This successful EU fund-

ing bid represents a major achievement. The development of Renewable Energy is a key theme in LYIT’s Research Strategy and SMARTrenew will complement existing activity and research in this field”.

The key to the sustainability and growth beyond the project duration will be promotion of stakeholder ownership (citizens, local businesses, regional authorities, education centres) in these innovations including enhancing local and national policy-makers capacity to ef-

fect change.

The intended outputs will be to showcase “Smarter Energy Rural Communities” who will develop the capacity to continue to improve their energy services by integrating new technologies and models as they mature after the project.

“The outputs from the projects will be 18 houses and public buildings retrofitted with smart renewable energy and storage solutions; a smart energy storage service; and one renewable energy management service.

FARMING 33

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Letterkennypost Your FREE LocaL WEEKLY NEWspapEr

& THE NORTH WEST

Farming NEWS MART RESULTS PHOTOS

McGinley Motors

Pearse Rd., Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

www.landrover.com

Tel: 074 91 25666

Donegal IFA County Executive Meeting

Farmers at the Donegal IFA County Executive.

Mark Zeig, Bord Bia, Angus Woods, IFA, Frank McClean, Donegal IFA Livestock Chairman and Adrian Gallagher, Secretary at the Donegal IFA County Executive. PHOTOS: Clive Wasson

The packed Donegal IFA County Executive held to discuss CAP Reform, Beef Prices and Market Trends.

Enda McDermott and Hugh Boyle at the Donegal IFA County Executive.

Donegal Texel Breeders Mark Zeig, Bord Bia speaking at the Donegal IFA County Executive held to discuss CAP Reform, Beef Prices and Market Trends.

'WHITE DIAMONDS'

SHOW & SALE OF 80 PEDIGREE TEXEL IN-LAMB EWES on FRIDAY 21st DECEMBER at RAPHOE LIVESTOCK MART Show @ 5:30pm / Sale Starts @ 7:00pm

Mark Zeig, Bord Bia, Angus Woods, IFA, Frank McClean, Donegal IFA Livestock Chairman and Adrian Gallagher, Secretary at the Donegal IFA County Executive.

For further information Contact 0044 7769258976

34 FARMING

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

Donegal farmers win top Origin Green Farmer Award for Beef Inishowen farmers Derek and Gareth Peoples took home the top award in the Dairy Calf to Beef category at last week’s Bord Bia Origin Green Farmer Awards.

Derek and his son Gareth Peoples run a dairy calf to beef operation alongside tillage and some forestry on their 220 acre farm at Tullyannon just outside Newtowncunningham.

They rear male Friesian calves each spring, which are finished as steers at between 22 and 24 months of age, at an average 320kg carcase weight.

The judges were impressed by the People’s attention to detail in hygiene, animal health and their focus on achieving cheap liveweight gain from grass through early

turnout and good grassland management.

The Peoples were one of 11 category winners as Bord Bia honoured Ireland's most sustainable, efficient and environmentally friendly family farms.

Over 240 farmers and senior representatives from farming organisations and the agrifood industry gathered to celebrate the achievements of the finalists, drawn from the dairy, beef and horticulture sectors across the country.

In total, 39 finalists competed for the prestigious awards following a rigorous process that included onfarm judging by teams from Bord Bia, Teagasc, the Irish Farmers Journal, UCD and IT Blanchardstown.

Presenting the awards Bord

Bia CEO, Tara McCarthy paid tribute to the achievements of all the finalists: “The pursuit of excellence by Origin Green farmers is at the heart of the Irish food and drink industry’s export success in a challenging consumer-driven trading environment.

“Bord Bia highlights these family farms to food buyers who are looking for living examples of the highest values in Irish food production.

When they visit these farms they see the commitment to protecting the land and its environment for future generations of food producers and consumers.”

She added: “It is from this foundation that we can build durable relationships with food buyers for the food we export.”

Inishowen farmers Derek and Gareth Peoples who won the the top award in the Dairy Calf to Beef category at last week’s Bord Bia Origin Green Farmer Awards.

Macra na Feirme to carry out national Consultation

Alana McLaughlin with her Champion Heifer and Reserve Champion at the recent Raphoe Mart Fatstock Show and Sale. PHOTO: Clive Wasson.

The Macra na Feirme Rural Youth Committee has announced it has begun a nationwide consultation with Macra members to develop a comprehensive overview of issues young people are facing in rural Ireland and how those challenges can be overcome.

The announcement comes in the wake of a report by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland which found that rural towns in Ireland are suffering from a long drawn out decline.

Rural Youth Chair Ger Mahon said: "The findings of the SCSI report are no surprise and only strengthens the view, long held by many in rural Ireland that we are forgotten about in terms of economic growth.

"In a technological era, broadband plays a pivotal role in economic prosperity and is key to the future development of any business.

"However, the fact that broadband along with other strategic infrastructure continues to be a luxury of urban classes only serves to provide further reason for those in rural Ireland to feel

left behind."

Macra na Feirme National President James Healy said: "Macra na Feirme represents the young people of rural Ireland, and they must be given the opportunity and resources to allow them to bring a vibrancy and dynamism to the future of rural Ireland.

"With this in mind, the consultation will discuss the challenges, but also the opportunities that can be brought about by supporting our rural youth."

He added: "Macra's Rural Youth Committee have set out to gain a greater understanding of what our members see are the biggest issues and opportunities of life outside the urban zones.

"Rural Ireland can and will thrive again but only if we are given the opportunities and incentives to make it happen.

"Continuous investment will play a major role in that, but the investment must be strategic in order to be effective."

The committee hope to present their findings early in the new year.

Farmers hold sit-in at Department of Agriculture IFA Livestock farmers from around the country held a sit-in protest in the offices of the Minister for Agriculture in Dublin over the refusal of Minister Creed to name the meat factories found guilty of excessively trimming carcases.

In addition, the IFA also called on Minister Creed to reject new proposals that could put further restrictions on the important live export trade.

IFA President Joe Healy said: “By re-

fusing to name the offenders involved, Minister Creed is protecting the factories. This is a cover up and it must be exposed.”

Mr Healy said the statement by Minister Creed to the Dail last week on the factories caught over-trimming carcasses was pathetic and failed utterly to recognise the gravity of the issue.

The IFA President said moves by the EU Commission to restrict the vitally

important live export trade could have devastating consequences for the cattle trade and price competition.

He said: “Minister Creed must reject outright this attempt to tighten the noose on the live trade. This might suit the factories but live exports are critical in providing increased price competition to counteract the cartel like behaviour of meat factories.”

Under new EU rules it is proposed to cut the assembly period for export-

ers from the current 29 days to only 14 days.

Mr Healy said this could have devastating consequences for our important live export trade and must be rejected.

“The Minister must face down the EU bureaucrats and tell them that this change will not be accepted by Ireland. As an island nation we already have additional challenges to get cattle to the continent.”

IFA National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods said: “What the factories were found out doing were not ‘mistakes’ as the Minister called them, they are offences under the law.

“Farmers certainly should be repaid as the Minister ‘understands’ the factories have now apparently ‘accepted’.

"This pathetic response from the Minister and factories shows contempt for farmers.”

HEALTH/COMPUTERS 35

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

The

Other Side of the Coin Sharing the ancient wisdom that is Chinese medicine

Acupuncture Treatment for Insomnia Nothing is worse than not sleeping well.

That is what I hear every day from people who suffer from insomnia. When we can’t sleep well, nothing is right.

We are tired, moody, irritable, our muscles are stiff, our head hurts, we can hardly think or function.

Furthermore, lack of adequate sleep can cause serious health problems.

Most doctors now believe that chronic insomnia brings on the symptoms of fibromyalgia and contributes to cardiovascular stress, not to mention the countless car accidents caused by people falling asleep at the wheel.

Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have different approaches to insomnia.

To Western doctors, treating chronic insomnia, the usual response is sleeping pills or anti-depressants.

Sleeping disorders are more common than people think, this is one problem that is very successfully treated with acupuncture.

In TCM, (Traditional Chinese Medicine) a primary concept is the idea of “root

and branch.” Symptoms like insomnia are considered to be the branches of a disease.

The root of the disease is a dysfunction or imbalance of the fundamental substances of Chinese medicine which include Qi (energy) (pronounced chi), blood, yin, yang, jing, and Shen, or of the major organ systems like the lungs, heart, spleen, liver, and kidneys.

When a person suffers from insomnia, the two organs most often out of balance are

the Heart and the Liver.

Each of these two organs houses a specific aspect of the spirit. If these organs are out of balance, they will not be able to house the spirit properly, and the spirit will wander.

The Shen (spirit)

According to Traditionl Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, insomnia is associated with agitation of the Shen. Shen is a form of Qi (energy), It is the

“lightest”, least substantial and least stable form of Qi. Shen plays a role in the higher mental functions associated with the intellect and the spiritual aspects of consciousness.

Shen is light and subtle, therefore it must be anchored by the yin aspect of Qi and blood or else it is possible it could “float away” leading to dream disturbed sleep. The ancient Chinese medical text “The Spiritual Axis” states When the Heart is in excess,

one dreams of laughing...

When the Heart is deficient, one dreams of mountains, fire, and smoke.”

Please don’t be alarmed, this does not mean that there is something physically wrong with the heart, in TCM it is the energy of the organ that is being talked about not its function, the subtle heart energies get disturbed through stress, thats why people with insomnia can also have palpitations.

In Chinese medicine, sleep is seen as one’s yang (strong, positive energy) energy moving inward to be enfolded by yin. (deep negative earth energy) Insomnia therefore, is a dysfunction in the interchange of yang entering yin.

The Shen must be calm at night and is housed by the heart during sleep. If this is disturbed it will result in disturbed sleep and insomnia.

For Shen/heart disturbance I would along with regular acupuncture treatment I would sometimes prescribe the Chinese herbal formula An “Shen” Buxin Wan. Difficulty getting over to sleep is usually related to an excess condition of the Liver

or Liver and Gall Bladder.

People will lie awake, tossing and turning for hours. Acupuncture points that sooth the liver energy would always be used in these cases of insomnia.

The Chinese herbal formula Xiao Yao Wan combined with acupuncture would be very effective in clearing excess and stagnant Liver Qi.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has many positive benefits. It is safe (sterile disposable needles are always used), it is effective for a wide variety of health problems, and it is free of side effects.

It has been scientifically demonstrated that acupuncture has a profound effect on the body’s central nervous system, and can increase levels of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin.

Acupuncture promotes natural sleeping patterns, and doesn’t have the hangover effect that most sleeping pills do.

If you have been having problems with your sleep, it may be worthwhile to give acupuncture a try before taking heavy-duty medications.

Kim-Dip.Ac. Lic.Ac. C.Ac. China MQP is a registered licensed practitioner of Chinese Medicine. Treatments are VHi, LAYA healthcare (formerly Quinn), Hibernian Health (Vivas) and HSF Healthplan approved.

E mail kim@naturalhealthireland.com or write to the Natural Health Centre, Millfield, Buncrana, Tel. 074/9362606, From North 00353749362606 or to the The Traditional Chinese Medical Practice, 5 Academy Court, Oliver Plunkett Rd., Letterkenny, Tel. 0863981882, from North 00353863981882. Visit the Website www.naturalhealthireland.com

Computer Guide How to identify winter holidays travel scams Since the holidays are approaching, we really need to underline the fact that airline scams are just a tiny part of a booming industry: online travel scams.

The worst scams of this type simply take your money and don’t send you anywhere, maybe just to the police to file a report.

There are many to lose thousands of pounds on fake Airbnb listings.

The “happy” cases of Christmas scams based on holiday bookings hide the real costs of your trip. You will end up paying more than initially thought.

These hidden costs could be necessary to pay when you get there to access a local attraction, pay for transport costs or other hidden

fees.

To make sure you are not the victim of travel scams: • Always buy airline tickets or book a travel offer from official travel websites.

• If the price for the trip or for the flight may be too low to be true, it may actually be some sort of scam.

EXPERT ADVICE #7: IT’S REALLY SIMPLE; DON’T CLICK ANYTHING IN ANY UNSOLICITED EMAIL YOU RECEIVE, EVEN IF IT’S ADDRESSED TO YOU. If it’s a bona fide deal, open a new browser window and go to the agent’s or retailer’s website, and you’ll find it. Better still, use Gmail and Google’s excellent spam filter will put every-

thing suspicious in a junk folder, and prompt you not to reply or click, even if you get tempted.

However, even official airline websites don’t exactly help foster consumer trust. Just yesterday after I entered my credit card number to buy a flight I was told that the price had risen since I started the booking process. That’s dishonest and unhelpful, to say nothing of airline booking websites that pre-select travel insurance and confirmed seat fees.

How to avoid Christmas screensavers bundle malware

Sites hosting screensavers have long been plagued by malware and trojans, and the biggest vector for infection might just be the biggest problem in town.

Holiday search terms are loaded with additional downloads like potentially unwanted programs. In essence, they’re the gift that keeps on giving. Not joy or beautiful Christmasy landscapes, but pop-ups and dangerous types of malware and ransomware.

So, before decorating your PC with snow-laden houses, do make sure you’re visiting safe websites and not downloading anything malicious.

You can do this by using a traffic-filtering software that blocks malicious websites and, of course, by having an

antivirus installed.

EXPERT ADVICE #8: BE MINDFUL OF UNSOLICITED DOWNLOAD PROMPTS, UNUSUAL FRIEND REQUESTS AND FAKE BANK EMAILS. 9. How to identify shipping notification Christmas scams This time of the year marks a big increase in the number of items purchased online and, at the same time, in the number of confirmation emails and shipping notifications we receive.

But are all these notifications real?

As we previously highlighted, some of them may be fake and dangerous!

An email requesting an update on your shipment could be a disguised attempt to retrieve valuable information from your online banking account.

This email might or might not have an attachment that you are requested to download. You could be dealing with a phishing e-mail, an email designed to spread ransomware or any other combination, so take precautions!

EXPERT ADVICE #9: SHOULD YOU RECEIVE ANY OF THESE EMAILS, DO NOT FOLLOW ANY LINKS PROVIDED OR CLICK ON ANY ATTACHMENTS. INSTEAD, SIMPLY DELETE THE EMAIL. IF YOU’VE ACCIDENTALLY SELECTED A LINK, YOU SHOULD RUN A VIRUS SCAN IMMEDIATELY. 10. How to spot fake jobs, financial opportunities, and Christmas scams for loans

One of the busiest periods in recruitment is the holiday season. Job seekers around to world flock to job sites in order to boost their careers.

Malicious hackers get a present as well: the personal details of those jobs seekers.

A popular method of gathering sensitive information is phishing via fake job sites. Unsuspecting victims simply give out their name, address, phone number and even SSN, thinking they’re applying for a job through an established career portal.

Another one is good old-fashioned emails from “recruiters” or “staffing agencies” – click the link and at best you give out your personal information, at worst you find yourself with a malware infection.

EXPERT ADVICE #10: BE AWARE OF FORMS ASKING FOR YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION LIKE BANK ACCOUNT AND PASSPORT NUMBERS. Be rational. Unless you’ve been actively applying for jobs, it’s unlikely someone is going to find you in the “internet resources” and offer you an amazing job.

Via Spamfighter The holidays are a time for presents, not falling prey to Christmas scams, so use this guide to stay safe and spread the cheer (and valuable info!) to your loved ones.

Here’s a handy infographic to warn your friends about the Holiday scams and what threats they pose for individuals.

36 HOROSCOPES/CROSSWORD

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

TEABREAK TEASERS

Weekly Horoscopes

Aries

(March 21-April 19) Romantic partners must be patient with each other today; and parents must be patient with their kids. Actually, everyone has to be patient because when the Moon is opposite Mars, it’s easy to blow your cool. And blowing your cool is not cool.

Taurus

(April 20-May 20) Be patient with family members today, especially mom. You are aggressive and ambitious right now with discussions about shared property and inheritances.

Don’t be pushy because you might regret it. This will turn out to be a fun-loving, playful day.

Gemini

(May 21-June 20) The key to your happiness today is to be patient with female family members. As the day wears on, you will welcome a chance to cocoon at home and relax because your pace has been busy. (Even a busy Gemini needs to take a breather.)

Cancer

(June 21-July 22) This could be a busy day for you because lately, you want to accomplish so much.

You have To Do lists, objectives and a mind full of ideas. Disputes about shared property might occur at this time, perhaps because ex-partners are suddenly back on the scene. Could be anything.

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22) Financial disputes might take place for some of you. Others will argue just because disagreements arise. Just remember that relations are dicey because Mars is opposite your sign. This is over as

by December 19. Whaaat?? That’s today!

Relief in sight!

Virgo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Be patient with others today because the Moon will move into your sign today to stay until Tuesday evening; and this will make you more emotional than usual.

Furthermore, early in the day, the Moon is opposite Mars, which can trigger conflicts with others. Easy does it.

Libra

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

WIN

VOUCHER

Sponsored by

Competitive sports attract your attention now. Many of you are also putting out lots of energy for social occasions and playful activities with children. Today however, be patient with others, especially a female companion. You might be tempted to be too abrupt this morning. (Not really your style.)

Letterkenny

Scorpio

Name.......................................................

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Do what you can to keep the peace at home today because you might feel irritated with a female family member, especially mom or an authority figure. Well, it is that time of year when tensions run high in families because people have expectations that are basically unrealistic. Be cool.

Address...................................................

................................................................

................................................................

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Slow down and take it easy today because this is a mildly accident-prone day for your sign. Of course, nothing has to happen.

This is just a warning for you to be more mindful and aware of everything you say and everything you do. Forewarned is forearmed.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Squabbles about shared property, taxes, debt, inheritances or insurance issues might come to a head today. Remember the power of courtesy. And also, remember what your objective is. If you blow your cool - you might lose everything. Not good.

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You will need to practice patience with partners and close friends today because fiery Mars is in your sign; and in the morning, the Moon will oppose Mars.

This means it’s easy to be annoyed with others. And vice versa, someone might be annoyed with you, especially a female.

Tel: ..........................................................

Send your entries to: The Editor, Letterkenny Post, 26 Balliniska Road, Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry, N. Ireland BT48 0NA

Across

Down

7. and 8. Type of print found in Washington Post ? (7,7) 8. see 7 () 10. Significance of poor reaction with politician getting in (10) 11. Take a step in this direction (4) 12. Seemingly will hit one?s target playing golf, perhaps (2,6) 14. Really fashionable adventure (6) 15. Creates extraordinary chap, like James Bond ! (6,5) 19. Dad gets the others round for a meal (6) 20. Schedule includes promotion for sports car (8) 22. Considerate type (4) 23. Upset, having moved around too much ? (10) 25. Judge employed but not approved (7) 26. At home with girl, I would be patient (7)

1. Doing agricultural work a long way from China (7) 2. Temporary bed sounds like good advice for the fugitive (4) 3. One to bring drink round ! (6) 4. Pole takes girl jewellery and carving (8) 5. They are present - at first a number stand out (10) 6. One putting clothes on furniture (7) 9. Is never into fabricating accounts (11) 13. Bowling spell followed by wicket signifying end of radio broadcast (4,3,3) 16. Right idea - not unevenly shared out (8) 17. Wanted something done about the boss (7) 18. Advantage of good Italian suit (7) 21. A hundred not out for England opener at start of play (3,3) 24. It’s capital, we hear, to travel (4)

Last weeks solution

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20) Tread carefully at work today. As the day wears on, you will want to be efficient, effective and productive. However, in the morning, tempers might fray. Remember that anger serves no purpose other than to make everyone miserable - including you.

€10

Congratulations to: James J. Gorman Corner House Kilmacrennan

Letterkennypost SPORT Thursday 20 December 2018

www.letterkennypost.com

ATHLETICS

Gaeltacht village selected for major endurance event

Skyline Challenge comes to Donegal The tiny village of Dunlewey in the heart of the Donegal gaeltacht will host one of the five races in the hugely demanding Skyrunner UK and Ireland Series in 2019.

The Seven Sisters challenge, which is held in July, has been included in the Skyrunner UK and Ireland calendar for next year.

The Seven Sisters are the seven highest peaks of the Derryveagh mountains.

Eunan Quinn of Exel Sports is the organiser of the Seven Sisters Skyline challenge and he’s delighted the event has been selected as part of the five-race series for 2019.

Race organiser Eunan Quinn

overwhelmed by the positive effect it’s had, both on themselves and on their economy.

We have the natural terrain and we were voted the Coolest Place on The Planet in 2017, so that all bodes well for Donegal as a county, These are all positives that we can build on.”

“

Next year’s Seven Sisters Skyline will get worldwide attention through the Skyrunning platforms and it’s my goal to make the event a world series race.

“

“For the Seven Sisters to be included in the Skyrunner UK and Ireland series is a big deal. Next year will see the first Skyline event ever held in the Republic of Ireland. The Mourne Mountains in County Down have hosted a round of the series for the last three years in October,” he added.

“This year, the Seven Sisters was a marathon and half marathon. Next year, this distances

The Seven Sisters endurance race will see entrants scaling the seven highest peaks in the Derryveagh Mountains.

will increase to 26k and 50k because the finish area will have to be moved,” he said.

The shorter race will take place on Saturday, July 27th, with the longer challenge fixed for Sunday, July 28th.

The participation in extreme outdoor sports is on an upward curve.

Sports tourism and adventure tourism are big things in Donegal and this year was without question the biggest year in that regard.

“Close to 700 competitors took part in the Magee 1866 Donegal Wild Atlantic Marathon and Half Marathon back

in July. Only a third of them were from Donegal,” he explained.

Those numbers show that there is a demand from people from outside the county to come to Donegal and take part in an event in a scenic area. Some people also holi-

dayed while they were here and there will be others who will come back to visit again when they are not here to compete.”` He continued: “Sometimes you have to run the event first for the locals to see the impact it has. They’ve been

Attention

“Next year’s Seven Sisters Skyline will get worldwide attention through the Skyrunning platforms and it’s my goal to make the event a world series race. If that could be achieved, it would see the best mountain runners in the world coming to compete in Donegal. There is an opportunity for that,” he added.

Demand

And according to the Twin Towns man, the demand for events such as the Seven Sisters Skyline is increasing, too.

“This is where the market is going and it’s events like the Seven Sisters that people are looking for. These events also attract people to Donegal.

THE SEVEN SISTERS COURSE The Seven Sisters are the seven highest peaks of the Derryveagh mountains. From southwest to northeast they are as follows, Errigal (751 m), Mackoght a.ka. Little Errigal (555 m), Aghla More (584 m), Ardloughnabrackbaddy (603 m), Aghla Beg (564 m), Crocknalaragagh (471 m) and Muckish (666 m).

The course is an out and back route which traverses 13 summits in total (including Errigal once).

The course is unique in that there are little or no tracks or paths, just wild open isolated mountains and hillsides. The stunning skyrunning race route incorporates technical sections on either side of the route at Muckish and Errigal mountains. Scrambling, ridge running, steep technical descents and ascents and a multitude of mixed terrain makes the 50km Seven Sisters Skyline with 4,000m of vertical gain a must-do event for all skyrunners.

The 2019 Skyrunner UK and Ireland Series gets underway with the Scafell Key Race in England on June 8th. This is followed by the Lakes Sky Ultra on July 13th. The Seven Sisters is next in July, followed by the Snowdon Skyline in September and the Mourne Skyline in October.

Flashback to the inaugural Wild Atlantic Way Marathon and Half Marathon on south-west Donegal last July. Chief organiser Eunan Quinn has now secured the rights for a Sky Runner Uk and Ireland Series race in Donegal next summer.

38 SPORT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

GYMNASTICS

Letterkenny Community Centre Gymnastics Christmas Open Competition

Podium time for some of the gold, silver and bronze medal winners

All eyes on the camera.

ABOVE: Participants in the Christmas Open Competition at Letterkenny Community Centre LEFT: Medal time after some great performances

All smiles after the competition

Jesse Purtill makes sure all the medals are in order.

More medal winners on the day

Some of the winners at the Christmas Open Competition

SPORT 39

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

GAA

Donegal GAA star in training for 2019 Aussie Rules season

Yvonne Bonner’s side to feature on TV Chris Ashmore reporter

Yvonne Bonner is looking forward to her Aussie Rules adventure

Donegal football star Yvonne Bonner could be gracing the screens of Australian television viewers over the coming months.

The talented Glenfin woman is currently preparing for her debut season with the Australian Rules Women’s team Greater Western Sydney Giants.

And the club recently an-

nounced that all of its league games will be broadcast live on free to air television in Australia as part of an historic broadcast deal announced in Melbourne.

Under the new agreement, the Giant’s seven games in 2019 will be shown live on the Seven Network in New South Wales and the ACT. Bonner will wear the number 27, and joins a side that also includes another star from the GAA scene, Mayo’s Cora Staunton.

In total, there will be five

Irish female players playing professional Aussie Rules in 2019.

The 31-year-old was identified through a CrossCoders trial in Melbourne and stood out with her ability to play as a forward and kick with both feet.

Bonner is now preparing for the league season that begins in January.

Speaking on the club website, she expressed satisfaction with her initial training sessions. A lot of the training drills were similar to those

back in Donegal and she felt her skills were “transferable.”

Bonner, who had lived in Sydney, previously, is eagerly looking forward to this new adventure.

The Giants begin their league programme with a trip to take on the Brisbane Lions on Sunday, February 3rd, and then host their first home game against North Melbourne, on Friday, February 8th.

The 2018 AFL Women’s season was the second season of

the elite women’s Australian rules football competition.

Eight teams competed in the league, the same as the previous season, all of which are associated with existing Australian Football League clubs.

The biggest attendance for a game was 41,975 for a match between Fermantle and Collingwood.

The average attendance was 6,118. Greater Western Sydney Giants finished fourth in the table, and had an average home crowd of 3,440.

Local clubs get Circle K cash boost

Circle K Cash for Clubs 2018 €500 Prize Winners, Letterkenny Athletic Club. Pictured is Aidan McKenna of Letterkenny Athletic Club with club members , Enda O’Reilly, Area Manager of Circle K Ireland and Jonathan Diver, Senior Director of Retail and Operations at Circle K Ireland and Eddie Tobin, Circle K Letterkenny. Letterkenny Athletic Club is delighted to have won €500 in cash and will be using the prize to purchase new equipment for the club. For more information on Circle K Cash for Clubs, visit https:// www.circlek.ie/cash-for-clubs-2018/ LEFT: ircle K Cash for Clubs 2018 €5,000 Prize Winners’ St. Eunan’s GAA Club. Pictured is Cathal Greene of St. Eunan’s GAA Club, with Enda O’Reilly, Area Manager of Circle K Ireland, Jonathan Diver, Senior Director of Retail and Operations at Circle K Ireland St Eunan’s GAA Club is delighted to have won €5,000 in cash and will be using the prize to purchase new equipment for the club. Photos: Clive Wasson

Circle K Cash for Clubs 2018 €500 Prize Winners, Letterkenny Rugby Club. Pictured is Michael McGinty and Letterkenny Rugby Club members with Enda O’Reilly, Area Manager of Circle K Ireland, Jonathan Diver, Senior Director of Retail and Operations at Circle K Ireland and Eddie Tobin, Tobin's Circle K Letterkenny. Letterkenny Rugby Club is delighted to have won €500 in cash and will be using the prize to purchase new equipment for the club.

Letterkenny Gaels GAA Club

Managerial changes Last Friday saw the appointment of Barry Ward and Philip O'Reilly as joint senior team managers. Both men have served the club with distinction down the years and come into the post with a wealth of experience.

Meanwhile, Ryan McKinley has stepped down as the manager of Naomh Colmcille after two seasons in charge of the Newtowncunningham-based team.

McKinley is the most successful manager in the history of the club, and forged his name in the annals as the first man to lead a Donegal side to victory in the Ulster Junior A Championship in 2017. They lost their All-Ireland semi-final to Cork's Knocknagree.

Letterkenny Post

074 911 2700

Ladies GAA away kit sponsors fit for champions travel Donal Sharkey, Donegal LGFA, Kevin Ward Managing Director of Champions Travel, Clodagh O Connor, Andrea Cutliff, Abbie Mc Granaghan Bronagh Duffy with Aine Riley and Maura Mc Crudden at the launch of the new Donegal LGFA underage away kit kindly sponsored by Champions Travel at the company's recent customer appreciation day.

Letterkenny Gaels GAA Club conveys sincere thanks to its Club Members, the people of Letterkenny and the wider community for their continued support during the past year. The continued progress of the Club is down to our hardworking officers, members, generous sponsors, team managers, coaches and parents who help in so many ways.

Under the leadership of our Underage Football, Hurling, Camogie and Ladies Football Sub-Committees and the guidance of our Club Executive, the Club has continued to grow and develop the talents of our playing members from Under 6 Nursery right through to our senior footballers. The U-14 hurlers qualified for the All Ireland Féile competition during the summer where they progressed to the semifinal stages. Bliain gnóthach a bhí ann chomh maith maidir le Scór agus Cultúir. This year the Scór na nÓg participants represented the club in Ceiílí

Dancing, Tráth na gCeist, Solo Ballad, Grúpa Ceoil, Recitation and Drama. Our young Members performed exceptionally well with County medals winners in Ceílí Dancing and Recitation.

We again welcomed the wider community for the staging of the Play ‘Second Honeymoon’ and we thank you all for the very favourable comments on the hospitality and friendly service experienced each night. The weekly Bingo continues every Monday night in Arena 7 and we thank all for their continued support.

Club updates are available on our Website, Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ LetterkennyGael.

We convey our condolences to all Club Members and supporters who have suffered bereavement.

We wish everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas and good health and prosperity in the New Year ahead. Nollaig shona agus bliain úr faoi mhaise dó gach duine go léir.

40 SPORT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

AROUND THE

GROUNDS

Around the Grounds It may only have been a challenge game but everything to do with the Donegal

The GAA feel-good factor Chris Ashmore reporter

It was in the not too distant past that many a challenge game was played on a poor surface, and with little real interest.

But the polished machine that is now Donegal GAA was very much in evidence on Sunday as Declan Bonner’s charges had a useful run-out against near neighbours Sligo.

Donegal are one of the GAA big guns, and that means there is now quite an entourage.

Bonner’s backroom team – including Stephen Rochford – were there in force. There was a long warm-up, and a reasonably long cool-down.

It may only have been a challenge game but the modern, professionallike approach to the game was there for all to see. The game was videoed, and stats were compiled. It’s all part of the learning process, a small piece in the jigsaw that will be built in 2019.

Gone, it seems, are the days of clambering across muddy car parks and fields and shivering in the cold to watch friendly pre-season encoun-

ters. Times are changing.

The venue for this encounter was Coláiste Ailigh in Letterkenny, one of the newest secondary schools in the north-west.

Its facilities are right up there, and for anyone over 30 it was probably with a sense of awe that they glanced at the gym – and the other facilities - as they queued up for the half-time cuppa. In many respects, this wonderful Irish-language second level Irish school has a university campus feel about it.

Príomhoide Micheál Ó Giobúin – and his volunteers along with the

Wooly hats, the order of the day, at the game played at Coláiste Ailigh

A man who doesn't miss many games, is Seamus Mc Elwee, from Fintown, chatting to another fan, at the game on Sunday.

Glad to be getting a breather, as Ryan Mc Hugh, Neil Mc Gee, and Michael Murphy, warm the bench, and Hugh Mc Fadden, has to stand.

Well wrapped up for the cold, at the game in Coláiste Ailigh

Declan Bonner, having a word with Karl Lacey, at the game against Sligo played at Coláiste Ailigh in Letterkenny.

All eyes on the playing field, at the game at Coláiste Ailigh

SPORT 41

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

at Coláiste Ailigh . . . Donegal v Sligo senior team now has a professional approach about it

warms the souls on a crisp afternoon GAA enthusiasts on match-day duty – played their part in ensuring that this was a slick operation all round.

There were plenty of stewards, the car parking arrangements were as smooth as a Swiss watch, and there was even a team-sheet. The press facilities were on the side of an open top lorry – and had power supplies.

The half-time interval was somewhat longer than usual. But it gave the school authorities plenty of time

to conduct its big draw. The €10 tickets gave you the chance to win prizes ranging from leisure centre membership to a golf weekend for two and scholarships for the Ceol na Coille Summer School of Irish Traditional Music. Fittingly, the winners were announced in Irish, as were all the announcements on the day.

When the second half finally started, there was one slightly amusing aspect to matters. Referee

Donie, and Bernadine Mc Cole, and Brian Mc Cabe, St. Naul's, with Edmund Brennan, and Edward Molloy, adjusting his wolly hat, at the game in Colaiste Ailigh

Seamus McGonagle had actually produced the first shrill of the whistle but Donegal had only 12 players on the pitch. For some reason, three of them had to sprint on to take up their positions!

Twenty-four hours previous to the Sunday lunch-time start, Letterkenny had been ensnarled in the remnants of Storm Deidre. It had been bucketing down, and was depressingly dark just after 4.00 pm.

What a contrast it was then for this game, with blinding sunshine on a crisp wintry day. And the pitch bore hardly any signs of the deluge from the day before.

On the field of play, the youthful Donegal side eventually cantered to a 2-19 to 1-7 success. It was primarily an occasion to cast an eye over some of the younger players who have been spotted on Bonner’s radar, while there was a welcome return to

Wherever there is a ball in the air, you will get the Na Rossa men, with Felix, and Trevor Melly, and Michael Dan Bonner, at the game between Donegal and Sligo.

action for the likes of Eoin McHugh and Jason McGee. The new experimental rules were a talking point, but only a minor one.

There appears to be little enthusiasm for them during the trial period.

Overall, there was a real feel-good factor about things – and that certainly warmed one up as the temperatures dipped on the slopes of the Mountain Top looking down towards the Swilly.

Kevin Cookie Gallagher, from Downings,with his son, Davin, at the game at Coláiste Ailigh

Benny Trearty, and the Termon men, out in force, at the game at Coláiste Ailigh

John Mc Daid, from Glenswilly, who doesn't stay in the house much if there is football on was among those at the game with Sligo, played at Coláiste Ailigh.

Termon fans, supporting Donegal, at the game at Coláiste Ailigh, with Sligo.

42 SPORT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

GAA

Youthful Donegal too strong for Sligo as countdown to Dr. McKenna Cup begins in earnest

Bonner is no fan of the new rules Donegal

2-19

Sligo

1-07

Diver got a point shortly after his goal before McGee and Caolan Ward got further points for Donegal before the break.

The home side were much more impressive in a second half that saw both teams emptying the substitutes’ bench.

Eoin McHugh, back from injury, got a welcome run-out and youngster Niall O’Donnell was among those who impressed.

Donegal surged into a 12 point lead before Bundoran’s Jamie Brennan got their second goal at the end of a flowing move to put them 2-16 to 0-7 ahead.

There was plenty of freeflowing football and Sligo just could not match the inventiveness of the Donegal side.

Chris Ashmore reporter

“

There was plenty of free-flowing football and Sligo just could not match the inventiveness of the Donegal side.

“

The new experimental rules are slowing the game down, that was the verdict from Donegal boss Declan Bonner after watching his side cruise to a 2-19 to 1-7 success over Sligo in a challenge game at Coláiste Ailigh in Letterkenny on Sunday.

Bonner was not shy when asked about his views on the rules which will are being trialled in challenge games and early season competitions in 2019 like the Dr. McKenna Cup. “All the (new) rules are doing is slowing the game down,” he declared. “You are going three passes and all of a sudden you turn and you have to go back again.”

“I didn’t agree with them from the start and the more you look at them you wonder how someone can let those rules go through,” he stated.

He expressed the view that he does not see the new rules being brought in for the Allianz National League campaign, and one suspects that he is not overly bothered by what could well be just a temporary readjustment for players.

He also contended that all the top teams are trying to play more expansive football.

“Football was starting to lift, in my mind, over the past couple of years, and the top teams were definitely trying to push it on. But the rules are there and we have to go

Donegal defend in numbers, with Eamonn Doherty, Ciaran Diver, Paddy Dolan, and Tony Mc Clenaghan, as they crowd out Sligo's James Clarke.

with it, but watching the first half all it was doing was slowing us down,” he said.

For the game against Sligo, Donegal fielded a very young side – Bonner estimated the

Michael Langan gets away from his Sligo marker, as he sets Donegal on the attack.

average age was under 23 – but they were on top from early on and led by 1-6 to 0-5 at the break, with Ciaran Diver getting the goal – palming the ball in - and Jason McGee, who

scored three first half points, particularly prominent in his return to the team.

Donegal moved swiftly into a three point lead with Michael Langan getting a point from

Peadar Mogan, about to get his pass away to a Donegal team mate, as he gets away from Sligo's, Luke Gilmartin, in the game at Coláiste Ailigh.

play between a brace from McGee. Alan McLaughlin and Adrian Marren replied with two scores for the visitors but that was the closest that they came to parity again.

Hugh McFadden came on in the closing stages to add a couple of points and while Sligo pulled back a late goal through Adrian Cummins it was a mere consolation.

Donegal start the defence of their Dr. McKenna Cup title on Sunday, December 30th at home to Queen’s University, and Bonner can be more than pleased with this worthwhile

Jason McGee was one of the outstanding figures for Donegal in the first half against Sligo.

SPORT 43

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

GAA

Owen McConnell

Fundraiser for Ardara native battling cancer in New York Martin Mc Elhinney, Donegal, taking on Paul Mc Namara, Sligo, in the game at Coláiste Ailigh.

run-out.

Sligo, who will play in Division Three of the Allianz National Football League in 2019, are not in competitive action until January 13th when they meet Roscommon in the FBD League.

The format for the latter has been altered again and effectively it’s a knock out competition and the game against the Rossies is a semi-final with the winners facing the victors of the other semi-final between Galway and whoever emerges from the quarterfinal clash between Leitrim and Mayo.

Donegal: Shaun Patton; Caolan Ward (0-1), Brendan McCole, Conor Morrison; Tony McClenaghan, Eamonn Doherty, Peadar Mogan;

Jason McGee (0-3), Caolan McGonigle; Michael Langan (0-3, 1f); Martin McElhinney, Paddy Dolan; Ciaran Diver (1-1), Lorcan Connor (0-1), Marty Reilly. Subs used: Ciaran Thompson (0-3,1f) for P Dolan, Jamie Brennan (1-0) for M McElhinney, Eoin McHugh for P Mogan, Paul Brennan for E Doherty, Michael Lynch for S Patton, Hugh McFadden (0-2) for J McGee, Niall O’Donnell (0-3) for M O’Reilly, Darragh Mulgrew (0-1) for T McCleneghan, John Campbell (0-1) for L Connor, Oisin Gallen for C Diver, Sligo: Alan Davy; Nathan Mullen, Peter Laffey, Kevin Henry; Keelan Cawley, Paul McNamara, Gerard O’Kelly Lynch (0-1); Paul Kilcoyne, Dara Cummins (0-1); Luke

Gilmartin, Luke Towey, Oisin Kennedy (0-1); Alan McLaughlin (0-2), Kieran O’Dowd, Adrian Marren (0-2, 1f). Subs used: Adrian Cummins (1-0),

Michael Gordon, James Clarke. George Wall, Barry Walsh, Niall Canning.

Referee: Seamus McGonigle (Ballyshannon).

Donegal to face Gaoth Dobhair in “A Game for Owen” A special charity benefit match and dance is being organised to help raise funds for Owen McConnell, the NewYork based Ardara native who is battling against cancer.

Declan Bonner’s Donegal, the Ulster SFC champions, will take on Gaoth Dobhair, the Ulster club champions and Donegal double winners, in “A Game for Owen” at Pearse Memorial Park, Ardara, on Saturday, January 12th, at 6.00 pm.

A dance will be held afterwards in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel in Ardara from 10.30 pm with music by various local artists.

Owen McConnell lives in Mahopac, New York with his wife Joanne (who is also from Ardara) and children Finian (12), Mia (11,) Roma (8) and Kyia (6).

In October last, their world was turned upside down when Owen was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung, Lymph Node and Bone Cancer.

Owen is currently undergoing long term treatment and a fund raising campaign has been initiated to help the family fund his ongoing medical expenses.

Owen is well known in

the Donegal Community in New York and through his construction business has provided employment for numerous young Donegal lads who have travelled there for the summer to play with Donegal New York GAA Club.

He is a brother of former Donegal Co. Chairman, John McConnell.

A group of friends and CLG Ard an Ratha have organised this game and dance with all proceeds to go towards the fundraising campaign and it is hoped that a big crowd will turn out to view what is a very attractive match as Donegal gear up for the upcoming National League campaign and Gaoth Dobhair get ready to face Corofin in the All Ireland Club semi-final on February 15th in Carrick On Shannon.

A bank account has been set up for the Owen McConnell fund at AIB Killybegs , details as follows.

Account Number 31584184.

BIC - AIBKIE2D. IBAN IE81AIBK93730431584184 * In the Dr. McKenna Cup last weekend, Fermanagh drew 1-9 to 0-12 with Ulster University while Armagh beat St. Mary's College 6-17 to 1-7.

McHugh’s management thoughts

The tigerish, Conor Morrison, coming out of defence with possession for Donegal, in the game against Sligo.

Caolan Ward, taking the ball out of defence for Donegal, in the challenge game on Sunday.

Donegal legend Martin McHugh has revealed that he will go back into management at some stage.

“Yes I will go back to management and I am not too old yet to back to management and will go back in a few years,” he told the Donegal Post this week.

Martin McHugh is one of the most respected figures in the game.

44 SPORT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

ATHLETICS

Burke and Mooney lead the way in Gransha

Athletes battled severe wind and rain at Gransha in Derry on Saturday as 183 competitors took part in the North West Cross Country Championships.

Rachel Gibson of North Down AC was crowned the ladies champion, finishing 27th overall, while Nakita Burke (Letterkenny AC) and Ciara Toner (Springwell RC) completed the podium.

Declan Reed was the highest of the north-west finishers in the men's race, with the City of Derry Spartan coming in behind men’s winner Mark McKinstry (North Belfast Harriers) and runner-up Craig McMeechan (North Down AC).

Inishowen AC's Pauric McKinney was tenth while Letterkenny AC's Danny Mooney was 14th overall.

Rachel Gibson, centre, North Down AC, took first place in the Female Race at the North West Cross Country Championships. Included are Nakita Burke, left Letterkenny AC, 2nd, and Ciara Toner, Springwell AC, 3rd. Photos: Tom Heaney, nwpresspics

Top 20 finishers Place Name 1.

Mark McKinstry 2.

Craig Mc Meechan 3.

Declan Reed 4.

Noel Logan 5.

Neill Weir 6.

Roy Mc Gilloway 7.

Niall McKnight 8.

Pius McIntyre 9.

Christopher Fielding 10. Pauric McKinney 11. Jonathan McKee 12. Oisin Cassidy 13. Luke Dinsmore 14. Danny Mooney 15. Matt McLaughlin 16. Joe Kennedy 17. Michael Melarkey 18. Simon Stewart 19. Johnny Canning 20. Peter Melarkey

Club North Belfast Harriers North Down AC City of Derry Spartans City of Derry Spartans Willowfield Harriers Foyle Valley AC Annadale Striders Foyle Valley AC City of Derry Spartans Inishowen AC Springwell RC St Michaels Enniskillen Springwell RC Letterkenny AC Foyle Valley Foyle Valley City of Derry Spartans Springwell RC Foyle Valley City of Derry Spartans

Time 19:59 20:21 20:38 20:57 21:10 21:13 21:16 21:18 21:24 21:25 21:25 21:26 21:33 21:37 21:37 21:38 21:39 21:49 21:57 22:01 Danny Mooney (72) on his way to finishing 14th overall in the North West Cross Country Championships in Gransha, Derry.

Letterkenny AC round-up

Derry, Navan and Lanzarote among the ports of call The last National cross country action of 2018 was held in Navan, Co Meath on Saturday.

A strong Letterkenny AC team travelled to the Irish Midlands’ town for the Irish Life Health National Novice Cross Country Championship and put on a tremendous display in conditions that were tough, both underfoot and overhead.

They performed well at individual, inter-club and intercounty level.

The first LAC runner to cross the line of the energy sapping course was teenage Eoin Hughes, who was a highly creditable 32nd in a field that was full of quality.

Next was Donal Farren, who

finished 59th. In-form runners, Ciaran McGonagle and Raymond Birch were 69th and 76th respectively. These 4 men garnered 236 points, which gave LAC an excellent 7th place in the team event.

The 4 counters were given excellent back up from Conor Brennan, 83rd and Eoin Kelly, 123rd. The winning team was Togher AC (Co Cork) with 129 points.

Eoin, Donal, Ciaran and Raymond also comprised two thirds of the Donegal team, which narrowly missed out on medals, when they were 4th in the Inter-County race.

The other counters for the 6 man Donegal team were

James McFadden and Seamus O’Donnell, both of Finn Valley AC. The winning County was Cork and Zak Hanna, Newcastle & District AC, was the individual race winner.

Gransha

Rain, wind and mud were also the order of the day at the North West Cross Country in Gransha, Derry on Saturday. Danny Mooney had a fine run and the top track runner showed his versatility by completing the tough course in 21.37. Nakita Burke is in the form of her life just now. She has notched up a plethora of road PBs in 2018 and transferred that excellent form to cross country. Nakita

was the 2nd woman in a time of 22.55. The race winner was Mark McKinstry, North Belfast Harriers and North Down AC’s Rachel Gibson was the leading woman.

Canary Islands

Last weekend, Philip Connolly swapped the inhospitable Irish winter conditions for the more pleasant climes of Lanzarote. Along with a large number of other Irish runners, Philip ran in the Lanzarote 10K, where he was the 8th M65 finisher out of the 15 runners in the category.

Parkrun

Saturday morning saw the popular Letterkenny parkrun

reach a milestone, as it was the 150th time the run has taken place. Cathal Roarty is approaching his own personal milestone of half a century and he ran the event for the 49th time. Cathal’s time of 24.08 gave him first place in the M50 category. Martin Donnelly was 3rd overall, and the leading M45 runner, in 20.51. Richard Raymond was 1st in the M60 category in a time of 23.35. James McBride was the leading M65 runner.

Shane Mullaney, Moycarkey Coolcroo AC (Thurles, Co Tipperary), was first across the line in 19.47.

Cash boost

Last Friday, Letterkenny

AC was the grateful recipient of €500 from the ‘Circle K Cash for Clubs’ scheme. The cheque was handed over to LAC representatives by Enda O’Reilly and Jonathan Diver, national representatives of Circle K and Eddie Tobin, Circle K Letterkenny.

Back home

Letterkenny AC runners were delighted to see the return of club stalwarts, Irene and Sean McFadden at the weekend.

They have been working in Dubai since the end of summer and have returned to Letterkenny, with their sons, Ruairi and David, for Christmas.

SPORT 45

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

ATHLETICS

Hundreds expected for post-Christmas event

Finn Valley St. Stephen’s Day 5k Chris Ashmore chris@letterkennypost.com

Up to 700 people are expected to take part in this year’s Finn Valley AC St. Stephen’s Day 5k.

The event, which began in the early seventies in Drumboe Forest, Stranorlar, has survived a few tough weather challenges over the years.

But it has gone from strength to strength, and has also attracted som ebig names in the past, including Olympic champions Vivian Cheryuiot of Kenya and Great Britain’s Mo Farah.

But it is primarily a family event, and an excuse to get outdoors after the Christmas Day festivities.

This year the organisers are pleased to announce that

local parish priest and former athlete Fr Kieran Mc Ateer has agreed to act as starter setting them on their way at 12 noon from the Finn Valley Centre.

“The Valley 5k has established itself as a go to event in a major way in East Donegal each year a family event for the entire family,” explained chief organiser Patsy McGonagle.

“It’s an opportunity to get

The Finn Valley under-19 girls team that won silver at the All-Ireland Cross Country Championships in Navan, pictured with their coaches.

out in the fresh air joining wth neighbours and family friends whether jogging walking or running.

Last year, there was a total of 652 participants. The race was won by Letterkenny AC’s Danny Mooney in 14 minutes and 59 seconds, just four seconds ahead of Thomas Hayes of Kilkenny City Harriers while Oisin Gallen of Finn Valley AC was third in 15.31.

The first female over the line was Tereasa Doherty of Finn Valley AC, who was eighth overall, in 17.01.

Registration shuts at 11.30 am and entrants are chip timed. Refreshments are served afterwards.

The Finn Valley Under-19 boys team, and coach Peadar McGrananghan, after they won bronze at the AllIreland Cross Country Championships in Navan.

Olympian YAC round-up

Great performances at All-Ireland cross-county c’ships Olympian YAC’s recently contested the All Ireland Cross Country Championships (Uneven age groups) at Navan, Co. Meath with fantastic success.

With the best 12 individual athletes, top three teams and best three county teams from each province qualifying for these illustrious Championships there was talent a plenty on display with only the best cross country runners in the country pitted against each other, on a wild and windy day doubled with a tough and hilly course

which meant the competition could not have been fiercer.

First in on the action was the U11 girls team who gave a great account of themselves in a large field of just under 200 athletes. They showed brilliant resilience to finish a very credible 12th best club out of 20 club teams, with Anna Russell 39th, Erin Friel 73rd, Orlagh Faul 94th, Caitlin Mc Cabe 139th, Chloe Deeney 158th and Aoife Mc Geehin 170th.

Nuala Bose took on the 3500m dis-

tance in the U15 girls and placed a very creditable 84th in a field of 140 athletes.

Finishing off the day and his season in fine form was Sean Mc Ginley in the U17 Boys 5000m distance. Having claimed an individual Bronze All Ireland medal a few weeks ago in the U16 age group he was in confident and determined mood to put it up to the older opposition. He pushed the pace throughout most of the race and in the end finished a very impressive 7th position. As he was the fourth Ulster

All Olympian athletes and coaches braving the elements at the All Ireland Uneven Cross Country Championships in Navan.

counter he was rewarded with a Gold provincial medal to add to his tally of All Ireland Cross Country medals this season, making it an incredible 2 Golds, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze in total.

Training

Training will have a short break over the Christmas period and will return Tuesday 8th January 2019 at 7:00 – 8:15pm and continue every Tuesday at this time as well as Saturday mornings from 11am until 12.15pm at the Glenswilly pitch.

Sean Mc Ginley with his medal at the All Ireland Cross Country Championships.

The under-11 team braving the elements and waiting patiently for the start of their All Ireland championships run.

GOLF LETTERKENNY GC The Get into Golf Programme commences again in 2019. It has been very successful since its commencement in 2016. It appeals to people who would like to take up golf but for whatever reason it just does not happen. The Get into Golf Progamme provides Golf Clubs, Golf

Bag and balls. New members are given a chance to learn the basics of the game as well as the rules and etiquette of golf. There is also a follow up with a buddy system where new members can go out with a club member to play the course.

A 13 Hole Turkey was played was played off last Wednesday. Martin Gallagher (6.7) was the winner with a good score of 31 pts. Martin got 2 birdies and 9 pars playing great golf.

George Onofrei (10.3) was the runner up with 30 pts. getting one birdie and 9 pars. Joe McManus (23.8) took third place with 29 pts.

Last Sunday a members competition was played.

While the weather on Saturday was very wet the course recovered exceptionally well for the competition on Sunday.

Jalisco Shortt (17.9) was the winner posting an excellent score of 41 pts.

Jalisco took 7 pars out of the course.

Kevin Kiely (7.6) was not far behind with 38 pts. and Enda Mannion (12.4) took third place with 37 pts.

Membership Options & Costs for Letterkenny Golf Club maybe of interest to visitors over the christmas and holiday period. Country Member living between 10 & 49 miles costs €300.

Country Member living between 50+ miles costs €175 and Overseas

Members costs €150 You can treat yourself or the golfer in your life to one of the great value Christmas Golf Vouchers from our PGA Professional Seamus McMonagle. Pick up three Adult lessons for just €100 or one Junior Golf Lesson for €20.

These special offer packages are available until 24th December. Contact Seamus on 087 7800660 or buy in the Pro Shop today.

46 SPORT

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

SOCCER

Ulster Senior League

Classy Coyle calls it a day Mary-Anne McNulty sports reporter

One of the finest footballers to ever come out of Inishowen is hanging his boots up after an illustrious career spanning more than 20 years.

Striker Ronan Coyle, who is currently with his native club Aileach, has decided to call time at the age of 38.

The Fahan native amassed a string of accolades over two hugely successful decades in football, winning a total of five Ulster Senior League titles with Quigley’s Point Swifts (2), Kildrum Tigers (2) and Finn Harps

Retiring...Ronan Coyle seen here in his Kildrum Tigers days.

DONEGAL JUNIOR LEAGUE TABLES

Brian McCormick Sports & Premier

P W D L + - +/- Milford United 8 5 1 2 22 13 9 Castlefin Celtic 6 5 0 1 14 6 8 Killdrum Tigers 8 4 3 1 21 14 7 Kilmacrennan Cel 7 4 1 2 16 9 7 Keadue Rovers 8 3 3 2 16 13 3 Glenea United 7 3 0 4 10 15 -5 Donegal Town 6 2 2 2 20 14 6 Rathmullan Celtic 8 1 2 5 10 19 -9 Cappry Rovers 4 1 1 2 8 11 -3 St Catherine’s 8 0 1 7 9 32 -23

Pts 16 15 15 13 12 9 8 5 4 1

Temple Domestic Appliance

P W Bonagee United 8 6 Lifford Celtic 7 4 Cranford 7 4 Convoy Arsenal 6 4 Ballybofey United 7 4 Drumkeen United 7 4 Drumoghill 8 3 Lagan Harps 7 0 Gweedore Celtic 7 0

+/- 16 8 7 10 7 5 -10 -28 -15

Pts 19 14 14 12 12 12 9 1 0

Donegal Physiotherapy Division Two

P Kerrykeel 71 7 Raphoe Town 9 Letterbarrow Cel 8 Whitestrand Utd 9 Deele Harps 8 Glenree United 9 Curragh Athletic 9 Gweedore United 8 Dunkineely Celtic 9 Copany Rovers 8

- 14 19 5 5 11 12 22 34 21

my dad about things, that’s what stands out.

“Another thing that will stay with me is when I scored seven goals, against Quigley’s Point.

That’s the record for the most scored in one game, and it’s a special memory for me.

“The only regret is that I wasn’t able to get an intermediate cup medal. The Kildrum side I played in was one of the best there ever was, and we were flying in the semi-final against Avondale, from Cork.

Bryan Bell, who managed Coyle at Quigley’s Point when they won successive USL titles in the early 2000s, said players of Coyle’s calibre come along

once in a blue moon.

He said: “There’s not many better than Ronan, either in Inishowen or Donegal, or at junior and intermediate level.

“He had great vision, and was brilliant at opening up teams with the superb variety of passing ability he had.”

Meanwhile, Cockhill Celtic closed the gap on Four Lanterns USL leaders Letterkenny to three points last weekend with a 2-0 win at Derry City, while Fanad United moved into fourth with a dramatic, highscoring 7-3 win over Finn Harps Reserves.

Last night Bonagee were due to play Derry City Reserves.

Group ‘D’ - Oscar Traynor Cup

SOCCER SCOREBOARD

Division One D L + 1 1 30 2 1 27 2 1 12 0 2 15 0 3 18 0 3 17 0 5 12 1 6 6 0 7 6

Reserves (1).

While at Kildrum, Coyle was the league’s top goalscorer for five years in a row and last year was awarded the coveted number 10 jersey in the USL Allstar team of the last 30 years.

Coyle said: “I think it’s finally my time to bow out. The hunger’s just not there in the way it was, and I wanted to end on what we did last season (at Aileach), where we won three cups and ran Glengad very close for the league title.

“I’ve loved every minute of my playing career. The highlight for me would be getting top goalscorer five years in a row.

When I’m sitting chatting with

KING KEVIN IS THE MAN

& Performance Centre W 6 5 4 4 4 3 3 3 2 0

D 0 2 3 3 1 3 2 1 0 1

L 1 2 1 2 3 3 4 4 7 7

+ 27 24 23 17 17 11 19 18 13 5

- 14 9 7 13 23 13 16 18 30 31

+/- 13 15 16 4 -6 -2 3 0 -17 -26

Pts 18 17 15 15 13 12 11 10 6 1

Glencar Inn Division One

P W Strand Rovers 8 5 Donegal Town 8 5 Glencar Celtic 8 5 St Catherine’s Res 9 5 Oldtown Celtic 8 4 Arranmore United 7 4 Keadue Rovers 8 2 Castlefin Celtic 8 1 Glenea United 9 1 Dunlewey Celtic 9 1

D 2 1 1 1 1 1 4 3 2 0

L 1 2 2 3 3 2 2 4 6 8

+ 25 21 20 20 18 16 17 16 9 15

- 11 10 9 19 13 12 17 21 26 39

+/- 14 11 11 1 5 4 0 -5 -17 -24

Pts 17 16 16 16 13 13 10 6 5 3

Old Orchard Division Two

P W Killdrum Tigers 9 7 Milford United 8 5 Drumoghill Res 9 4 Fintown Harps 9 5 Drumbar 9 2 Cappry Rovers 9 2 Drumkeen United 8 2 Gweedore Celtic 9 1

D 1 2 4 0 3 2 1 1

L 1 1 1 4 4 5 5 7

+ 30 22 19 21 17 19 14 13

- 9 11 19 20 23 27 19 27

+/- 21 11 0 1 -6 -8 -5 -14

Pts 22 17 16 15 9 8 7 4

Kevin Mc Hugh fires past Sergio Gomez to give the Donegal Junior League the lead against the Sligo / Leitrim League. Photos: Gary Foy.

Sligo-Leitrim League 2 Donegal League

2

Former Finn Harps hot-shot Kevin McHugh showed he still has that eye for goal as he got both goals for the Donegal Junior League as they booked their place in the quarter-finals of the FAI Oscar Traynor Cup following an entertaining draw against their Sligo-Leitrim counterparts at a stormy Sligo Showgrounds on Saturday night.

There may have been a tinge of disappointment that they did not win this game – Sligo got a late equaliser – but the bottom line is that Donegal have topped Group D.

The Inishowen League, who finish as runners-up, will also qualify for the last eight.

The hosts went into this game knowing that a victory by two goals or more would have seen them qualify.

But twice they fell behind, with the first set-back coming after less than five minutes.

The home team failed to clear a corner and McHugh seized possession and having outwitted a couple of defenders calmly picked his spot with a well struck shot past goalkeeper Sergio Gomez.

Sligo-Leitrim equalised midway through the first half thanks to a fine diving header from Keith Nibbs.

That score lifted the Connacht side and Donegal had

to endure a few anxious moments before restoring their advantage seven minutes prior to the interval.

But Gary Whoriskey’s probing ball deep into Sligo-Leitrim’s territory was latched onto by McHugh, who was subsequently fouled. From the resulting penalty, he made no mistake and Donegal were back in front.

Donegal’s second half chances fell to McHugh, Whoriskey, Seami Friel, and Cory Gallagher but it was Sligo-Leitrim who got the only goal of the second half with Tyler Stallard netting in the 90th minute but it was too little too late.

Sligo-Leitrim Junior League: Sergio Gomez, Mat-

thew Conlon-Oates (Dylan Martin, 85 mins), Aaron Murren, Ryan McManus, Conor Griffin, Steven Armstrong, Tyler Stallard, Mark McGoldrick, Keith Nibbs (Shay Doherty, 79 mins), Paddy Woulfe (Anthony Johnston, 60 mins), Gary Armstrong Donegal Junior League: Michael Mullin, Mark Friel, Matthew Crossan, Ryan Shields, Kieran Gorman, Gary Whoriskey, Cory Gallagher (Corrie Lee Bogan, 88 mins), Shaun McGowan, William Lynch (Damien Crossan, 84 mins), Kevin McHugh, Seami Friel (Gareth Colhoun, 58 mins).

Referee: Richie Barry (Sligo).

SPORT 47

Letterkennypost Thursday 20 December 2018

SOCCER

Niall Logue seen here against Drogheda United in one of the play-off games in October.

Mikey Place at full stretch to get his toe to the ball ahead of his UCD opponent during the SSE Airtricity Division One match between the sides at Finn Park in June. Photo: Gary Foy.

Three more signings but Harps hoping Santa can still deliver more!

Horgan brings number of signings to 14 Chris Ashmore reporter

The signing of three more players this week means that Finn Harps boss Ollie Horgan has now 14 players contracted for the new Airtricity League Premier Division season that begins on Friday, February 16th.

And Horgan is still hoping that Santa will deliver a few more before Christmas as he continues to try and build a squad ahead of the new campaign.

On Tuesday evening, Horgan confirmed this that goalkeeper Peter Burke, defender Niall Logue and striker Mikey Place have re-signed ahead of the new League of Ireland Premier Division season which starts in mid-February.

All three made important contributions in the second half of the season, and Horgan is well pleased to have them back on board.

This brings to 14 the number of players that are now contracted.

Significantly, however, captain Keith Cowan has not yet signed terms. Horgan will also be hoping that Australian native Jacob Borg – who really enjoyed his spell with the club – could yet be back as well.

Logue

Logue came to Harps on loan from Derry City in July, and quickly slotted into the team.

Horgan says that the big defender is an important addition as Harps will need a pool of players at the back ahead of what is going to be a very

physically challenging season against teams with much bigger playing resources.

“Niall came in during the transfer window in July. He gave us more scope at the back and it worked well in the second half of the season.

“We want to have adequate cover if possible in all positions. Niall has the opportunity now to push for a regular place in the team so it’s good to have him on board again.”

Logue was once on the books at Irish League club Institute before moving to play college soccer with Yavapai College in Arizona. The 23-year-old was also with Ohio State University for two seasons playing in 19 games before coming back home to sign for Derry City.

Peter Burke played in the play-offs against Limerick, and is back again for 2019.

Place

Place got nine goals in 15 games, and Horgan will be hoping that the young striker can flourish in the Premier Division.

The former Sligo Rovers and Derry City attacker made his debut for Horgan’s side as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Wexford Youths at Ferrycarrig Park in May. One week later the 20-yearold scored on his first start in the 4-0 home win over bottom of the table Athlone Town.

The Galway native came through the underage ranks at Sligo Rovers and signed his first professional contract with the Bit o’ Red in 2016.

However, Place experienced difficulty in getting regular first team football at the Showgrounds during the early part of the 2017 season.

He opted to transfer to Derry City where he remained until

mians but didn’t sign a permanent deal at that time. So when fellow Galway man Horgan met Mikey last May he was persuaded to give it a go at Finn Park for the remainder of the 2018 season. And that proved a very good move for Place and Harps who lost only once in 15 league games on their way to promotion from the First Division.

Place certainly has plenty of pace. “Mikey did well for us when he came to us in May. He got a couple of goals and settled in quickly and played a big role for us in the second half of the season,” Horgan said.

“But, that’s in the past now.

All our focus has to be on the Premier Division and we just hope now that Mikey can kick-on and make a big impression against quality defences.

Mikey has experience of the set-ups at Premier clubs like Sligo Rovers and Derry City so that should be a help to him.

So he has another decent opportunity now to show what he can do at a higher level.”

Burke

the end of that campaign.

The young striker played

in a pre-season friendly for Galway United against Bohe-

Moville man Peter Burke was brought to Finn Park in July 2107 by Horgan from Irish League Premier Division side Cliftonville.

The 22-year-old had spent two seasons at Solitude, after returning from the Sunderland Youth Academy. Burke also represented the Republic of Ireland at U17 and U19 level.

He played in the final league game of the season against Cabinteely which Harps won 7-1.

Burke then played his part in the two final play-off games

against Limerick F.C. after injury ruled out Ciaran Gallagher.

"Peter came in and did a very good job in those two final play-off games against Limerick which got us promoted," the Harps boss stated.

He will be competing again with Ciaran for the keeper position so we’re looking forward to working with the two of them in pre-season,” Horgan added.

As of Wednesday morning, Horgan had 14 players contracted for the 2019 season. Sam Verdon and Daniel O’Reilly were both with Longford Town last season while Caolan McAleer returned to Finn Park for another spell having begun last season with Sligo Rovers.

Persuasive

Veteran Raffaele Cretaro (37), who had announced his retirement from Sligo Rovers, has also joined Harps.

Just as he did with Barry Molloy and Paddy McCourt, Horgan used his persuasive powers to entice the Bit o’ Red legend (he a record 531 appearances and scored 86 goals) to give it another season, but this time at Finn Park.

Colm Deasy has come to Harps, having been previously with Drogheda United.

The rest of the players were all out of contract at the end of last season, but have now signed again for the Donegal players.

They are: Ciaran Gallagher, Peter Burke, Sam Todd, Niall Logue, Mark Coyle, Mark Timlin, Gareth Harkin, Nathan Boyle, and Mikey Place.

Letterkennypost New GAA rules slowing game P42

Major endurance event in 2019 P37

Thursday 20 December 2018

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Two holes-in-one in one round!

Mary-Anne McNulty sports reporter

A Donegal golfer pulled off a staggering sporting long shot this week after getting two holes-in one in a single round of golf.

Buncrana Golf Club’s Garbhan Fullerton defied 67 million to one odds when he eagled two par threes at the course on Sunday morning.

The 20 handicapper, a stonemason, told the Post: “I got a hole-in-one at the sixth, and I was buzzing because I’ve been playing golf a right few years and it was the ďŹ rst time I ever did it. “Then, at the 18th, I drove

Garbhan Fullerton

B QMBDF UP ESJOL BOE FBU

off and the ball hit the ag and went into the hole. I couldn’t believe it, and to be honest I don’t think it’s sunk in yet.�

Traditionally, the golfer who claims the hole-in-one stands everyone a round of drinks at the clubhouse, but the 30-year-old’s boss at Crana Stone, Emmett Friel, has generously stepped up to do the honours.

Garbhan explained: “There’s about ďŹ ve or six of us and Emmet has said we’re going to have a good few drinks on him this weekend, so it should be a good Christmas alright. “I suppose getting three holes-in-one would be the next target - so I’ll have to up my game,â€? he joked.

Buncrana golf club manager Francie McGrory said he was in shock when he heard of Garbhan’s spectacular feat.

He added: “I looked it up on the US hole-in-one society’s website and saw that the odds of doing it are 67 million to one. “I think it will be a long time before something like that is ever equalled or bettered. “For golfers, to get one hole-in-one in a lifetime is something special - but to get two in one round is just phenomenal.�

2019 SSE Airtricity League Premier Divison ďŹ xtures released Ollie Horgan will he hoping to defy the odds again next season.

(Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)

Chris Ashmore chris@letterkennypost.com

Finn Harps will begin life back in the Premier Division of the SSE Airtricity League with an away trip to face Bohemians at Dalymount Park on Friday, February 15th, 2019.

Their ďŹ nal league game in the 33 match season is on Friday, October 25th when they make the short-trip to the Brandywell to face arch-rivals Derry City.

And that is a match that could have a massive amount at stake.

Harps are favourites to be relegated from the top ight, but Harps manager

Derry away in last game!

Ollie Horgan has a habit of upsetting the odds and will be striving to cause a few more upsets as they bid to try and survive in the top ight of Irish soccer.

Harps’ ďŹ rst home game will be against double-winners Dundalk in Ballybofey on Friday, February 22nd.

Ollie Horgan’s side then travel to the capital to tackle St. Patrick’s Athletic before their second home game, a northwest derby against Sligo Rovers on Friday, March 1st. “We’ve made a few changes to the ďŹ xture list based on feedback from the clubs and other stakeholders. We’ve switched one midweek round of ďŹ xtures from before the mid-season break to after,â€? said

FAI Competitions Director Fran Gavin. “Also, all Premier Division clubs will now come into the EA SPORTS Cup at the second round stage and there has also been an adjustment to the play-off dates.

He added: “We’re also delighted to be hosting the UEFA U17 European Championships in May at a number of SSE Airtricity League grounds and to facilitate the competition, the schedule has been adjusted accordingly.�

The First Division season will begin on Friday, February 22. The FAI Cup Final will be on Sunday, November 3rd.

See DonegalNow.com for the full fixture list