Jonathan Kennedy Selected for Co-option to Donegal County Council
Jonathan’s mum Nancy, girlfriend Stephanie, brothers Pauric, Ciaran and Rory, sisters-in-law Linda and Jenni with Pat the Cope and Minister Mary Coughlan
Over 100 delegates from the local Fianna Fail organisation in the Donegal Electoral Area attended a convention in Pier One on Friday night for the purpose of ratifying nominations to fill the seat vacated by the late Peter Kennedy on Donegal County Council. A minute’s silence was observed as a mark of respect for the late Councillor. The convention unanimously selected Jonathan Kennedy, third son of Nancy and the late Peter, and he will now go forward for co-option at the July County Council meeting.
The convention was chaired by Sligo TD Dr Jimmy Devins and was attended by Minister for Agriculture, Mary Coughlan TD; Minister of State for Marine & Natural Resources, Pat the Cope Gallagher TD; as well as local area councillors Brendan Byrne and Sean McEniff - also chairpersons of Ballyshannon and Bundoran Town Councils, Billy Grimes and Tiernan Brady. Councillors David Alcorn and Enda Bonner also attended.
In his acknowledgement speech Jonathan thanked his local Cumann, St Patrick’s, Donegal Town, for nominating him and said it was indeed a great honour to be selected to represent the Donegal Electoral area and, most particularly, in replacing his late father. Jonathan said he had a lot to live up to as his father had given 20 years of his life to Fianna Fail and the electoral area.
In accepting the nomination Jonathan said he would do his utmost to represent the local people at Donegal Co Council and he looked forward to working closely with the local Fianna Fail Councillors Sean McEniff and Brendan Byrne, and with local Ministers Mary Coughlan and Pat The Cope Gallagher. He thanked the delegates for their help, support and kindness during his canvass and was reassured by their unanimous support at convention.
Jonathan paid a special tribute to his mother and brothers and other family members for their support in getting him into political life. All Jonathan’s immediate and extended family were present, as well as his fiancée, Stephanie Byrne.
Minister Mary Coughlan congratulated Jonathan on his nomination and said he had a hard act to follow. She had served on Donegal County Council for fifteen years with the late Peter and was well aware of the hard work he put into representing the local area. She said she had no doubt that Jonathan, who had youth, energy and enthusiasm on his side, as well as the wholehearted support of the local Fianna Fail organisation, would soon make a niche for himself in local politics. Minister Coughlan said she was delighted that there was unanimous support for Jonathan and she looked forward to working with him in representing the people of the Donegal Electoral Area. Equally, she was confident that the two sitting Fianna Fail Councillors, Brendan Byrne and Sean McEniff, would take Jonathan under their wing until he found his way, which she felt sure would not take long, given his lifetime of involvement in politics through his late father.
Minister of State, Pat the Cope Gallagher, also addressed the convention and congratulated Jonathan on his unanimous selection and also pledged his support to the new councillor elect.
Deputy Dr Jimmy Devins closed the convention by congratulating Jonathan on his selection and thanked everyone for their co-operation in the smooth running of the convention, which he said it had been a pleasure to chair.
Jonathan will now go forward for co-option to the County Council meeting on Monday, 25th July 2005.
Application for Housing at Doonan
Danny Thomas seems to be switching from farmer to developer. The former detective garda has applied for permission to construct 49 houses, including the demolition of existing derelict house and out-office, at Doonan, Donegal Town.
Happy Birthdays to Louise Jordan, Shaun Kelly, Aidan Kennedy, Darren Jordan, Marianne Craig and Philip McGrane. Congratulations to Adrian Ward who finished joint top scorer of the Noel Dillion Premier Division this season. Good luck to Aoife Maguire who is working in Germany for the summer. Well done to Patsy McHugh, Gary McHugh and Paul Coughlan who took part in the cycle from Sligo to Letterkenny last Sunday in aid of the Cancer Support Group. Eany Celtic are holding their annual seafood night on Saturday 16th July in the Rising Tide.
St Nauls Seniors started their championship against Naomh Bríd last Sunday, while the reserves had a bye to the next round. The minors play Bundoran in the first round first leg of their championship on Thursday evening at 7.30pm in Bundoran. The under 16s had a very impressive victory over Naomh Bríd last Monday night and are through to the Divisional Final where they will probably meet arch rivals Four Masters. The under 14s completed their league campaign with a good six point victory over Naomh Conaill last Wednesday. They start off their championship campaign against Ardara on Friday 22nd July. The under 12s are in action in their county final on Saturday evening in Convoy at 6pm when they take on a strong MacCumhaills team. The under 10s are hosting a blitz on Saturday in Mountcharles at 11am. The under 16s girls were unlucky to be beaten by Killybegs in a very close match last Tuesday evening in Mountcharles. They also played Ardara yesterday.
Congratulations to Gary Kennedy and Shona Murphy who welcome baby Ben home from hospital this week.
Congratulations to Laura Kennedy who won Miss Donegal representing Michelle’s Boutique. Thank You
Patsy McHugh, Gary McHugh and Paul Coughlan would like to thank Lynn Temple of Magee & Co for supplying the van and also to the back-up team of Martin Rose, Willie Joe McHugh and Jason Rose who helped out on the day of the Sligo/Letterkenny cycle.
Bill Cunningham - an appreciation
It was early October 1962 that I first met Billy Cunningham. Having just finished secondary school, the young Mountcharles man and myself were let loose on the vast metropolis of Dublin to study at University. Courtesy of John Barry moving to reside elsewhere, I took over his berth to share a room with Billy and his brother Des in a boarding house on Harrington Street, just off Kelly’s Corner.
For the next five years the two siblings and myself moved through a series of digs and flats in the south side of the city. Not all that interested in academic life, Billy departed Earlsfort Terrace after twelve months to join up with a firm whose line of business was to determine the direction of his life from then on. Nolans was one of the biggest fish merchants in the country at the time and Billy went in on the ground floor. To capture best quality when buying at the markets necessitated a 4.30am rise, an aberration (to us) that often caused him to meet his room mates coming home as he departed for work.
This apprenticeship at Smithfield instilled in Billy a knowledge and feel for the produce of earth and sea that was to stand him in good stead as his life evolved in other directions.
Around the early 1970s, a new housing policy was initiated in Dublin whereas massive towers were built at Ballymun and inner city people were moved out to live in them. Billy saw an opportunity. He negotiated with an accommodating bank manager and, having secured finance, headed out to open what was probably one of the first dedicated fish, fruit and veg shops in the city. Located in the midst of those towering edifices, Billy’s specialized formula proved a big success from the start. His business prospered and the man from the village in south Donegal became a big hit with the true-blue Dubs who inhabited the high-rise apartments near the airport. Fruit, fish and veg were the mainstay of the venture and Billy’s knowledge of the markets ensured quality was to the fore.
For two decades his business flourished - at one stage he even opened a second shop.
During the recession in the early 1990s, supermarkets came to the fore and Billy, now married to Mary and with four young children, decided to move to Donegal where he bought the Spar Inver.
The rest is well known. Billy gradually expanded into different lines, growing his business by offering quality and service. A hard worker, he laboured all days of the week, early till late, aided by wife Mary. The business prospered and was much appreciated by the community it served - as was the family who ran it.
But unfortunately it was not to last. Some years ago Billy was diagnosed with cancer and, although he made an initial recovery, the disease returned. Probably realising this before anyone else, Billy set about putting his affairs in order. The supermarket was put up for sale and luckily found a buyer experienced in the retail trade.
The doctors and staff of St. Vincent’s hospital did all they could but the disease had spread too far.
Those who were with him in the last weeks and days commented on his peace and serenity. He fully accepted what God had laid out for him and expressed happiness at being surrounded by family and friends.
Billy Cunnigham died in the early morning of Friday July 1st.
In his homily at the requiem mass, Fr. Seamus Gallagher spoke of Billy’s humility and natural generosity - and indeed those were inherent traits. But there was also a steely side. Billy suffered his share of misfortune - but be never complained - never gave in. He loved his family, his community and his church and they in turn cherished him - no more can a man draw from life.
Billy is survived by wife Mary, sons James, Derek, Alan and daughter Caroline, brothers Des and Conal, sisters Catherine and Sheila, numerous relatives and close friends. To them we offer sincere condolences. LH
Killymard School Extension
A Catholic priest gave his weekly pension to help build a much-needed extension to a school for children in a rural community.
Fr Eoghan O’Frighil and parents in his County Donegal parish of Killymard decided to pay for the extra classrooms themselves rather than wait for State funding.
They celebrated along with 227 pupils at the formal opening of the €270,000 extension to Scoil an Leinbh Iosa two miles from Donegal Town. When the rate of increase of the population of the parish at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains accelerated there was pressure for more space in the seven-classroom primary school. English translation of its name is School of The Infant Jesus.
An additional two classrooms as well as enlarged kitchen and toilet facilities were needed. Parish Priest Fr O’Frighil, 76, who is chairman of the school board, said the community applied for grants for the extension but were told they would have to go on a waiting list. The Department of Education offered €70,000 for a prefab building pending a decision on funding for a permanent structure.
That wasn’t good enough for the people of Killymard. Fr O’Frighil said: “We might have had to wait up to five years, and the parents didn’t want to place their children in a prefab structure.
“There was only one thing for it. The community decided to build the extension themselves. The education of our children is too important for any dilly-dallying.”
The decision to do their own thing was made by the families in November 2003. They set about a series of fund-raising events.
Fr O‘Frighil promised the Church would match from parish funds every Euro raised by the community.
Between them they raised €200,000 in 19 months. The community’s €100,000 included the priest’s own €90 a week pension from the State. (He contributed to a government scheme that permits him to continue to work full-time as a priest and still collect a pension. He’s on half-pension because the scheme was introduced too late for him to qualify for the full €180 a week entitlement).
The Department of Education was persuaded to provide the remaining €70,000 in lieu of a prefab. Fr O’Frighil said: “When I saw the great sacrifices the parents were prepared to make, and their enthusiasm for the venture, I was only too glad to make my own little contribution.”
He added: “I would suggest to every community in Ireland to follow the example of the wonderful people of Killymard if they can’t get whatever grants they think they may be entitled to. There’s no point in hanging about waiting for something to happen when our children’s education is at stake.”
An Bord Pleanala have written to the agents representing Christopher Bennett & Son (Construction) Limited requesting them to submit an Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed retail park at Drumlonagher. This is the second time that the Council has determined an application on the Drumlonagher site without requesting an Environmental Impact Statement. An identical incident occurred with Bennett’s proposal to erect a Dunnes Stores supermarket in 2001. That application was eventually refused by the Board.
An Environmental Impact Statement must be submitted to them before 30th September 2005. Whilst the request for the statement gives no clues as to the potential outcome of the appeal, it could delay the decision for at least another six months.
Barnes Community Centre Opened
 Sunday 26th June was a very memorable day in Keadue, Barnesmor, as the Community Centre was officially opened by Minister for Agriculture, Mary Coughlan. With over 500 guests present, even the sun shone brightly all day enhancing the enjoyment. This centre was formerly the old Barnesmor National School which closed in 1986. Although the centre continued to be used since then, the past five years have seen a hard-working committee extend and refurbish the building with state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities. Anyone wishing to make use of the centre can contact Veronica on 9722776.
The development committee would like to thank Minister Coughlan, Dinny McGinley TD, Councillor John Boyle, Father Wm Peoples, Fr Seamus Dagens, Rev Raymond Fox, Gary Martin (Task Force), Liam McGeever (ADM CPA), Mayor Ciaran Twomey, and Deirdre Kehoe (artist).
Local children must be congratulated on the talent they showed on stage, both in singing and dancing. Well done also to all the participants of the ‘Blind Date’ sketch - local dramatic clubs take note! Much fun was had with the bouncing castle and Mr Majestic. All attending were wined and dined in the marquee on-site. Music was provided by BeezNeez. The committee wish to thank Miss Cherry for her entertainment but wish to remind her of her responsibilities as a mature role model to wear a helmet whilst cycling!!!
Over the next few months the video of the opening will be shown in the Centre followed by a night’s entertainment. Watch out in Donegal Times or in our newsletter.
Appreciation is extended to Jim White, Yvonne and staff of the Abbey Hotel, Linda and Jon in the Krusty Kitchen, Millcourt Coffee shop, Eddy Mulligan and Donegal Creameries, Seamus McGinty, Pat Travers, Marcellus Gillespie, Tony Thomas, Declan Doherty for transport, Frank McGinty (Antifire), Drimarone, John Bosco Centre and Dom Brogan Blacksmiths.
A big thank you to all who volunteered their help on the day and again to all who attended to make the occasion the success it was.
Pollution on Donegal Bay?
The death of hundreds of fish in Donegal Bay has raised fears that its waters could be affected by pollution. However Department of Marine officials tend to think that the sea life has been suffocated by a natural bloom, known as red tide. This algae bloom hit the northwest coast at the beginning of July. But fishermen, who have reported large fish kills in the inner section of the bay, fear that a pollutant could be responsible, possibly caused by sewage or dumped dredged material.
Mountcharles Water Scheme
Sinn Fein Cllr., Thomas Pringle, has welcomed the news of the start of the Mountcharles water small capital scheme project. “This long awaited work is due to start in mid-August and when finished will see the treatment works at Drumbeigh upgraded and the closure of the antique works in Mountcharles” stated Pringle.
“For many years the people of Mountcharles have suffered poor quality and lack of storage of water” continued Pringle “this scheme when completed will see the upgrade of the treatment works, the provision of new raw water mains and storage for Mountcharles, which will give an improvement in quality and less interuptions to supply in the future”.
He concluded “the people of the Mountcharles area have lobbied hard for this improvement down through the years and at last their patience has been rewarded”.
Alan Hughes and Noel Cunningham present Ireland AM
live from the grounds of Donegal Castle Photo: Jason McGarrigle
New opening and some moves around town
‘Changing Rooms’ - a furniture and tile company has taken up position at Drumlonagher in two of Donal Monaghan’s units, behind his tyre business. The Town Development office has moved from Bridge Street to Michael Kelly’s building on Quay Brae - and Glenda Kane’s Upper Cuts has relocated to Bridge Street in the premises that previously housed Kevin Sharkey’s Art Gallery.
Young town girl dies in car crash
Nineteen year-old Caroline McGlanaghy of O’Duignan Avenue, Donegal Town lost her young life in a traffic accident at Maas near Glenties on Sunday 26th June. She was travelling as a passenger in a car with three other people when the crash occured. All the occupants were taken by ambulance to Letterkenny General Hospital but, despite the best efforts of paramedics, it is believed that Caroline lost her battle for life on the journey there.
On Wednesday requiem mass was celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Killymard. The huge crowd attending bore testimony to the popularity of Caroline and the respect in which her family is held. Fr. Eoighan O’Frighil P.P. was joined by Fr. John McLoone P.P., Inver; Fr. Willie Peoples P.P. Townawilly; and Fr. Gavigan CC, Donegal Town. In his homily, Fr. O’Frighil paid a moving tribute to Caroline and spoke of her many qualities.
‘The very stones cry out’ declared the priest ‘and when I look down at you, the congregation, I see you also weep. But there is nothing wrong with shedding tears - they are not just of sorrow - but of love, admiration and appreciation. Though taken from us when just enjoying her youth, Caroline was all we associate with young life - borne out especially by her interest in sport. She brought her vision of life into every sport she participated in - those who knew her could only admire her vigour and energy. But Caroline was not just a sporting person - she was a girl of great integrity, generosity and gentleness - her life was as a shining light amongst us. Gathered here today we lament her passing, but God will reward her for a life well spent. May she rest in peace’.
Guards of honour from the Four Masters Club, for which Caroline played, and from her places of work lined up outside the Church after the mass to bid a last farewell to the young town girl. The huge crowd then accompanied the cortege as it bore Caroline to her final resting place. Caroline is survived by her parents John and Mary, brothers Mark and Peter, sister Lisa - also extended family and many friends.
Scoil Aodh Rua agus Nuala
Green flag competition
The sun shone brightly over Scoil Aodh Rua agus Nuala on Friday June 24th as their newly acquired Green Flag was hoisted into the air. As it fluttered in the gentle breeze there was a look of pride and excitement of the faces of these young children who had worked so hard during the year to claim this ultimate prize. Work on the Green Schools Project had started back in September when the school adopted a policy of REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE.
Great strides have been made: •wheelie bins usage has been halved; •all waste in the school is separated into plastic, card/paper, organic, glass and waste; •as far as possible waste materials are reused in Art, Science, Maths classes; •a vegetable garden has been created and potatoes, cabbage and carrots will soon be ready for the table; •an exhibition was held whereby all the exhibits were made from recycled materials.
On Friday June 24th the school held their end-of-year Mass on the theme of Environmental Awareness.
The Mayor, Board of Management, Parents Association, parents and friends attended the ceremony where children thanked God for the Earth and prayed that we would continue to protect our planet and all who live therein.
Afterwards the congregation adjourned to the school where Mayor Ciaran Twomey raised the flag to excited applause. He complimented the school on their achievement and said they were an outstanding example to the community. He thanked the teachers who had encouraged the children to accept the Green School’s challenge of litter reduction and recycling. Mary Quigg, on behalf of the Parents Association, praised the school and congratulated the pupils and teachers for achieving the Green flag. A presentation was made to popular teacher Anne McGlynn who retires this year. Fr. Chambers also commended Scoil Aodh Rua agus Nuala on the award and commented that even the priests are composting their waste. Deirdre Dillon on behalf of the Green Schools Committee thanked all who attended.
Special thanks was extended to •Robbie Ellis who sponsored hanging baskets, window boxes and bedding plants for both buildings •Harper Homes who donated clay for the vegetable garden •Danny Gallagher KT Nets who helped with flag fittings •Parents Association/Board of Management who supported the venture •Teachers, children and staff who embraced the project with enthusiasm •Green Schools Committee who steered the ship and kept it on course •All those who attended the flag raising ceremony.
Later, as the adults sipped tea and munched on delicious sandwiches the children celebrated with the customary bag of goodies...(carrots and celery sticks!!) D.Dillon
Bluestack Challenge
Michael Devaney and Geraldine Carty lead their group through the Bluestacks on the way to Ardara
A personal reflection by Gerry Bennett
The longest distance I had ever walked in one journey was 12 miles - and that was a long time ago - and only because every single driver decided not to heed to our wagging thumbs as we signalled in vain for a lift home from the dance. Not exactly a thought that would instill confidence for the upcoming 40 kilometre sponsored walk for people with special needs, the Magee Bluestack Challenge.
So, it was with more than a little anxiety that I packed my bag on the Friday night: the final night before the CHALLENGE. Water, sandwiches, dried fruit, sun protection cream and a bottle of insect repellent , guaranteed to ward off creatures that only Livingstone (or Stanley) might have encountered, were squeezed in. A check of the late weather forecast predicted a pleasant and sunny day - but you never know - so in went more wet gear, an extra change of clothes, more socks than I normally wear in a week (didn’t Bernard McGlinchey tell us that a change of socks was crucial to lessen the chance of blisters) - oh, and that’s right - the blister pack as well! Two clocks set for 5.50am and off to bed.
I don’t know why, but I assumed that the day ahead would require a great deal of body fuel. I ate a breakfast, the quantity and variety of which Enda Kenny (the chef) would have been proud, bade farewell to the fans at home and drove to Killymard. What a sight to behold: trucks, jeeps, registration areas, buses: and a blur of movement whirring around among the throngs of people - Patrick McBrearty doing his final checks!
A lorry with amplification provided a platform for a few words - Gerry Duke, the chairman of the organising committee, advised that among my cupla focail from the lorry I should mention that everybody helping on the day were volunteers. Many times during the day I remembered those words as I was amazed at the sheer generosity of people and goodwill shown to all. An upbeat and very funny Noel Cunningham hit the right note with his infectious good humour, rapport with the walkers - and his impeccable dress sense. Elizabeth Temple may well name her latest rose Bluestack Pink. Seriously though, Noel was great and is a true friend of the Challenge. Joe Coyle ably went through the housekeeping notes - and Lynn Temple spoke with the assuredness to which we have become accustomed .
So onto the buses - I was in group C, led by the inimitable Bernard McGlinchey. The walk began - stage 1, Lough Eske to Eglish - spirits high, nervous laughter, a steady pace, not too fast.
At the first stop, after an hour and a quarter, we were met by our van and jeeps - Gerry Ward was driving the vehicle carrying our gear, and no better sports psychologist will grace the fairways of the British Open golf tournament in the coming weeks. The support he offered our walkers was superb—and to think Gerry had to very reluctantly withdraw from the walk himself the previous week, with a sports injury.
Eglish to Dysart was indeed a pleasant stage as we made our way along forestry paths and tracks, all part of the marked and signed beautiful Bluestack Way. Regaled by Bernard with tales and stories of a historical and geographical nature, we made our way to the next stop to be met by the soldiers of the 4th Western Brigade, who had assembled a mobile kitchen and cheerfully distributed gourmet bacon cooked al fresco - boy did it taste good! We had caught up with the group in front, so there was time for a quick comparison of experiences with Jimmy and Maeve (members of the Stranorlar treckers).
The next stage took in a climb upwards from Dysert to Dibbin—a steep incline that seemed to test my immediate companion. I stayed with him, encouraging him as he reached the summit of the hill. Viewing the majestic countryside, and looking forward to the downhill walk ahead, I smelled the fumes of cigarette smoke. Who was it but my new found friend puffing away to his heart’s content!!
Then off again, down the hill this time. As tiredness set in my mind began to wander and to wonder - about the walk: the reasons for it and the importance of it: and I thought of the Special Needs man I had met 3 months earlier who had such a profound effect on me: I thought of the very fine article written by Daniel Browne about the veritable challenge that many special needs people face and overcome every day: I thought of the wider functions of the Bluestack Foundation - to educate about special needs: I pondered the welcome replacement of the principle of integration with that of inclusion in our schools…….yes, the hills can bring on thoughts.
Down the hill we went - Liam McCrea balancing and supporting himself on two walking sticks to accommodate a recent leg injury. Pure determination got him this far. A rest at the bottom of the hill to take on more food - sandwiches donated by Galfees this time - more liquids - and off we set for Glenties and, from there, the start of the final stage along the Owenea river. We seemed to get a surge of energy from the hope, stronger now, that we were going to make it.
Behind me Paul Doherty and Joe Britton chatted away about matters fundamental to the very existence of man - I listened closer - yep, I was right - they were discussing the recent U2 concerts.
The belief set in - yes, we were going to get there - a group of hardy souls were already begining to mentally prepare themselves for a much anticipated pint of Guinness. And I wondered and thanked the man, whom I have never met, who cut a path along the entire Owenea riverbank, a stretch of 5 miles, with a hand-held scythe.
Finally, we were there - Bernard McGlinchey, member of the organising committee, lead guide of Group C, straightened himself, ushered his guides Mick, Jo, and Stephen to the front, congratulated the walkers on their achievement and Augustus-like led us into Ardara. I walked in beside Liam McCrea - a valiant effort by him, as good as any on the day. Crowds lined the streets: families, friends, well-wishers. It was brill!
I had had made it - exhausted but elated.
Great celebrations ensued as the walkers filed in for a welcome meal in the Nesbitt Arms.
Post Script: It has been a great privilege to be a member of such a dynamic and hard working committee as that of the Magee Bluestack Challenge. I thank them all, those who walked and those who did incredible work behind the scenes, both on the day and in the months prior to the Challenge. The walk was a truly memorable occasion, embellished by a generosity of spirit that raised it to being more than a walk, more than a social occasion. On my behalf, I thank every person who, in any way, helped to make the Magee Bluestack Challenge the success it was - there are too many people to thank - so, I thank you all. Gerry Bennett
Joey Travers - an appreciation
Joey Travers - an appreciation
The 21st of June is the longest day of the year but it was the shortest one for Joey Travers who slipped away from Phonsie and the boys and went back to Ballintra.
Her illness was borne with dignity and unusual strength of character from someone who always had hope.
She never gave up hoping that Donegal would maybe give us another 1992 or that two of her ‘adopted sons’ Niall McCready and Brian Roper would get the medals they deserve. And she never gave up hoping that she would come home to Cluain Barron from the loving care she received in her last days at Our Lady’s Hospital, Manorhamilton. Sadly it was not to be.
Joey Travers lived in Cluain Barron for over 30 years after coming from her native Dowra, County Cavan, in the early 1950s, from where her father Liam, who was a garda, moved with his wife Molly. She also lived in Ballintra and worked for the ESB in Dublin, Ballyshannon, Donegal Town and Killybegs, up until two years ago. After marriage, she became involved in the Aodh Ruadh GAA club where her husband Phonsie and sons Liam, Al, Barry and Brendan are members.
Joey shared many of her husband’s interests and became part of the Folk Festival, but her passion for fashion was very much her own. Politics was also an abiding interest and it helped that they co-incided with those of her nearest and dearest.
As Father Alan Ward said at her moving funeral; ‘If there were postal votes in Heaven I have no doubt who would win the next General Election’. Her wake and funeral was a rare and real cross-section of Irish society. Many eminent names from the Church, GAA, political and folk worlds were there, along with all her loyal former workmates, neighbours, and the friends she made effortlessly.
Irrespective of occupation or status, she treated them all the same and that’s why there were so many. Two of her favourite things were placed near the coffin in the chapel in Ballyshannon - these were a photograph of her grandchild Mollie and a Donegal jersey.
There are very few people in Donegal or indeed in Ulster GAA fields who did not know Joey. She was there, in sunshine and shadow, with her husband Phonsie who was commentating on games from Clones to Croke Park, and her great friend Mary Roper.
In fact you would think there was something wrong when Joey wasn’t there, saying hello to the gatemen or just putting people at their ease.
These were gifts given freely from a generous soul. And she often had a discreet ‘wee story’ for a hungry journalist.
The past few months there was something wrong because Joey was going gently into another great field in the sky. There was no fuss because that was the way she was, a strong, but thankfully not always silent woman who leaves behind five grieving men to be with her daughter Mary, with whom she is now at peace in Ballintra.
She is survived by her husband Phonsie, (Sons) Liam, Al, Barry, Brendan, their partners Celine, Lynette, Fiona and granddaughter - and love of her life, Mollie. And also by her brothers Pat, Michael and her sister Carmel.
A dheis De go raibh a hanam dilis.
Month’s Mind will be held in St Brigid’s, Ballintra, on Friday 29th at 7.30pm.
Donegal Town Summer Festival
Chloe Kearney, Railway Park, who came 1st in the age 1-3 category in the Bonny Baby competition, pictured with mum Angela Gillespie
Donegal Town was definitely the place to be over last weekend as the historical town came to life with lively music, carnivals, fun and games.
It all started on Friday evening last when the local Glenties Band got the show underway as the sun shone down over a big crowd on the Diamond. The festival was officially opened by Minister Mary Coughlan and Town Mayor Ciaran Twomey with Cllr Brendan Byrne, Cllr, John Boyle, Cllr Séan Mc Eniff, Tiernan Brady, Chairperson of Bundoran Town Council; Ernan and Mary McGettigan Donegal Community Chamber and newly elected Councillor, Jonathan Kennedy, also present on the stage.
Then it was time for the Cosameata Carnival Group from Falcarragh to arrive in town displaying colourful entertainment for the onlookers. Killybegs were also very much present when their accordian band took to the street to play for an hour. Aine O’ Doherty and the Henry Girls dropped in to sing a few songs and the evening finished with the very popular country band La Bamba.
Day Two
Another glorious day saw Watershade, a local Kilcar band take to the stage followed by country sensation, Evan O’Donnell. Facepainters, clowns and sunburn confronted the crowd on the diamond. It was the moment that fourteen girls representing various different businesses had waited for as the Miss Donegal Town competition took place at 7pm. The entrants to the competition faced a list of questions from the panel of judges including Amanda McGrory from Ocean Fm, Lisa McKelvey the current Mary from Dungloe and Roisin Woods from McElhinneys.
The girls returned at around 8.30pm to the stage and Roisin Woods announced the winner - representing Michelle’s Boutique, it was Laura Kennedy of Inver. Roisin Woods said it was a very hard job for the judges to pick one girl as they all looked very well and all had great personalities. Laura received a basket worth over €500 of cosmetics, courtesy of McElhinneys of Ballybofey.
Day Three.
It was the final day of the festival, warm and humid, as the music continued by Phoneix, a well known local band. Then it was time for the bonny baby competition and glamouous granny show which proved to be very popular with over 36 contestants taking part.
Bob the Builder, Barney, Bear in the Big Blue House and many other characters turned up to meet all the boys and girls in Donegal Town and danced with them as a disco entertained the crowds on the Diamond. It was coming to the end of the festival and how better to finish on a high note but with none other than Micky Joe Harte. Micky sang many songs which the crowds knew and sang his latest release entitled ‘Summer Sunshine’.
The crowd seemed to enjoy the entertainment and the weekend was a great success with the different shows on the platform, great weather - and the warm friendliness of the people of Donegal Town.
The organizer Jim White was delighted with the success of the festival and with him putting all the money into the weekend, without any grant funding, he said he would like to thank everyone for any part they played in helping out. All businesses in Donegal Town will now be asked to make a donation into the three chosen charities which the festival was in aid of, those being the Donegal Hospice, Donegal Alzheimers and the Downs Syndrome Centre. They are asked to give generously.
Brian Cunningham
O'Donnell Clan Festival launched in Castle
Maria Anna and Maria Angeles O’Donnell with Quentin Olson-O’Donnell and Carlos Olson-O’Donnell who came from Spain and San Francisco. Pictured with town mayor Ciaran Twomey and wife, Anne-Marie. Photo by Jason McGarrigle
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