Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal Community in Touch Issue 20 December 2013 / Nollaig 2013

NEWs 2 Welcome DONEGAL BuSiNESS 7 EDUCATION AND LEARNiNG 10 Fáilte SOCIAL AND CULTURAL 12 DONEGAL COMMUNITY LINKS 13 Easkey Britton Message From The Mayor My Donegal & Christmas Céad Míle Fáilte I As Mayor of Donegal I have the wish and making space most welcome opportunity to refer for grace. to our ongoing work in promoting our County. We have one of the most attractive Counties in Ireland, from Donegal for me is where my roots are, where I feel Fanad Head to our Islands and all grounded and connected to the landscape, and even in between, and Tourists can benefit more so, the seascape. from with a wide variety of activities all over our County. The coast and bays and beaches Everything happening too fast and This year we again have offered many of Donegal were, and still are, my my chest tightening a little in panic. Festivals during the summer season, and have showcased our playground, where I feel most at So I remember to breathe in that very interesting Cultural and Heritage places of interest. Our home – in the wild Atlantic surf. fresh, salty air to clear my mind of County has received an award for one of the best Local Authorities It doesn’t matter whether you surf clutter. And I ask myself, “What in Ireland that expresses the true involvement of our Council with or not but the sea and our coast is beautiful space can I make for growth its people. Donegal’s greatest resource. A living, and grace? What can I let go of to breathing thing that literally shapes make space to create, for my deepest I had great pleasure in our involvement with The Gathering that our landscape and our weather shot desires to make manifest in my life?” organised many events attracting people from all over the World through with brilliant rainbows and to our County. We had a Social Inclusion week which also very bursts of sunshine in between the What is grace? For me, grace is being successful. It is now approaching the Christmas Best Wishes quickly moving weather fronts. It open to change, embracing, and Season to help brighten our Winter and our Visitors from abroad gives inspiration for art, a place to be letting go of what doesn’t serve us who usually make a Trip home for the Christmas Holiday Season. free in nature – where long walks on well. Grace is gratitude for being here If I may convey recognition to all our people throughout the the beach will blast away any doubts now, it is pausing in our daily rush World who have retained a Pride in their County and Country no or cobwebs, clearing the mind and to stop and marvel at the rainbow matter where they are. I appreciate the most welcome support opening the chest with lungfuls of falling into the sea across the bay, by all countries in our efforts to create a very successful Country salty sea air. It can and should be grace is turning our faces towards the willing to work in partnership with others to create a healthy and able to provide us sustainable, local sky and letting that gentle, low winter wellbeing place to live and bring up a Family offering a Quality in produce for our table. It can offer sun kiss our cheeks before dropping Education and Life. below the mountains. Be gentle to us nourishment for mind, body and I as Mayor of Donegal during my year, being aware of our diversity yourself, go outside and breathe in soul. A resource we should nurture, I realise we can’t continue to live in the past, we all have one deeply a great lungful of air, inhale respect and celebrate more. future, lets share in designing a future we can all be part and the goodness of what home means proud of, let us leave behind a legacy to our future generations After a long year of travel I find to you. And as you exhale, let go, that will bring about a willingness to promote our County and myself back home in Donegal. Always like weeding out the weeds that can Country where all people can coexist in harmony with each other. taken by surprise how quickly the tangle our thoughts. It is my intention to promote a shared future that all people can winter season moves in and all of Easkey Britton participate in and feel part of. a sudden Christmas is around the www.easkeybritton.com corner and a new year beckons. It I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the warmest Easkey Britton is an Irish surfer from welcome, if and, when you decide to visit Donegal. Happy is a good time for reflection. That Rossnowlagh, . She comes from Christmas break gives most of us an Ireland’s first surfing family and grew up surfing Christmas and best wishes for 2014 opportunity to be still, a moment to with her sister Becky-Finn & her Dad Barry Ba mhaith liom an deis seo a ghlacadh lena chur in iúl daoibh go finally stop. For me, it’s been such a Britton. Barry & his brothers were some of the mbeidh fearadh na fáilte romhaibh uilig nuair a thiocfaidh sibh ar first pioneers of Irish surfing and it all began busy year – a crazy one of transition when Easkey’s Grandmother returned from cuairt go Dún na nGall, má shocraíonn sibh air sin a dhéanamh. and transformation, big change and California in the 60’s with two malibu boards Nollaig shona agus bliain úr mhaith daoibh in 2014. big ideas taking shape but almost for her hotel. Easkey’s achievements include five Continued Inside feeling overwhelmed by possibility. times Irish National Surfing Champion and she Cllr Ian McGarvey was the first woman to pioneer surfing in Iran. Photo credit: Louis Bernard An Meara Contae Dhun na nGall News DONEGAL GATHERING slógadh dhún na ngall

www.donegalgathering.com

North West Garden Show Castlefinn- 150 exhibitors showcased their products at the Garden show which was attended by 20,000 Donegal Gathering has provided us all with a focal point around which we have successfully established links across the globe. As winter slowly creeps up on us and Christmas is just around the corner let’s take a moment to reflect on this, the year of The Gathering. What a year it has been! It truly has been remarkable to watch the germination of a proposal, gather pace from grassroots level, and burst forward into full bloom, driven primarily by people power. Donegal has not been found wanting in this endeavour as we proudly took our place among the trailblazers across all the counties of Ireland. By the end of the year almost 200 gathering events will have taken place across the county, making us one of the most active counties behind this fantastic tourist initiative. Rathmullan Regatta This has proved the sceptics wrong and shown the true resourcefulness and positivity that can be demonstrated by the ordinary people of Ireland, when the seeds of a good idea are placed in the care of the people. The Gathering has seen those of us who are at home reconnect with those of us who have moved away; be it first, second, or third generation, or beyond. It has been a cause for immense national pride in challenging times. We have acquitted ourselves admirably and we can all take comfort from the fact that the single driving force behind all the hard work was re-establishing our sense of connectedness and kinship that has stretched around the O’Donnell Clan Gathering brought O’Donnell’s and friends from globe and back again. nine different countries to Donegal to unite with their roots

Donegal Community in Touch Page 2 News DONEGAL GATHERING slógadh dhún na ngall

The smiles, laughter, and tears of joy that have been shared Michael Heaney, Director of Service for in every parish and community throughout this proud nation said “These figures confirm what we have been hearing from will never be measured in fiscal terms or visitor numbers. business owners on the ground in Donegal for some time. Nevertheless, while this initiative was not about figures but Overseas visitors, as well as are rediscovering rather about people, we must assure ourselves that it was all Donegal. The Gathering has given the tourism industry a much worthwhile. needed boost and have seen an increase of more than 15% in

Donegal Bay and Bluestacks Festival, Magh Éne Collage Bundoran Feile Grainán Ailigh, Sun Rise, Summer Solstice stiltwalkers before the Carnival Parade in Ballyshannon

Recent tourism figures from the Central Statistics Office report visitors from North America. I am confident that this positive visitors to Ireland so far this year to be up by 162,000. While this upward trend in tourism figures can continue and that jobs is great news for the nation, Donegal has been to the forefront will be created in local business across the county as a result”. in driving this increase in visitor numbers. Donegalgathering. It is the mission of Donegal Gathering to continue to raise com website has reached in excess of 150,000 hits from over the profile of Donegal as a ‘much see’ destination that will 115 different countries throughout the world. Also, a recent deservedly be one of the most desirable locations, for visitors, nationwide poll, conducted by online travel agent, ebookers. in Ireland. We have witnessed small communities and local com, ranked Donegal in first place with a massive increase of groups embrace a new dynamic of “Tourism of the People”. 800% in bookings. With thousands of registered and informal events, The Gathering has awoken in people a spirit not seen for decades.

Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards- Right Seamus Neely- County Gallagher Clan Gathering - MaryBeth Gallagher receives the Manager presenting John Hume with picture of John Hume at the Gallagher Global Award from Clan Chief, Adrian Gallagher Tip O’Neill monument on the Shoregreen in Buncrana

Donegal Community in Touch Page 3 News DONEGAL GATHERING slógadh dhún na ngall

Donegal Gathering Peace Proms -Children in rehearsals 1 Canavagh Clan Gathering-The descendants of John Cavanagh outside his home in Greencastle

2013 has helped to awaken the people of Donegal and has this country embraced our global Diaspora in such a heart- given them reasons to be proud and active within their own warming manner, and never before have our people returned communities. It has also forged many positive links with our in such numbers. Kettles were boiled, pints were poured, songs extended family across the world, and reinvigorated in them were sung, stories told, steps were danced, shoes were kicked not only a sense of belonging but also it has helped to replenish off, and feet were placed firmly under the table. Until we meet their cultural roots in a proactive and positive manner that has again… live, love and hold our embraces close to your heart. been as intimate as a handshake or a loving hug. Never before, For more information visit www.donegalgathering.com

Glebe School Reunion, Donegal Town-Sharing a desk again after many years Donegal Gathering Calender of Events

Donegal Community in Touch Page 4 THE 2013 TIP O’NEILL IRISH DIASPORA AWARD News CEREMONY IN BUNCRANA, CO DONEGAL www.donegaldiasporaaward.ie

A very special gathering Donegal County Manager, Seamus Neely read a message from President Michael took place on the D. Higgins to hundreds of guests, in which the president remarked that weekend of 20 and “The Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award 21st September on the is yet another reminder of how much our Diaspora has contributed to their Inishowen peninsula of new communities around the world and how the culture and heritage of County Donegal for the our forefathers continues to play an second Tip O’Neill Irish important role in the lives of those who are Irish.” Seamus Neely County Manager, Governor Brian Schweitzer and Diaspora Award in 2013. Mayor of Donegal Cllr Ian McGarvey’ Loyola Hearn, the Canadian Ambassador It was the Irish-American politician, to Ireland, presented bursaries and Tip O’Neill, who coined the phrase “All awards to Inishowen Primary Schools politics is local” but there was a distinct and pupils who participated in the Tip international feel to the event this year O’Neill Diaspora essay/art competition by the attendance of some of the O’Neill for 2013. The 2013 Tip O’Neill Diaspora family, other guests from the US, Canada, Lecture entitled ‘Poetry and Power Australia, and from various parts of and the Diaspora’ was delivered by Europe. A full catalogue of events Paul Arthur, Professor Emeritus and took place in the region, including the Honorary Professor in Peace Studies at award ceremony, which was hosted by the University of Ulster and who is an Buncrana Town Council in conjunction authority on Irish, British and American with Donegal County Council. The award politics . is given in recognition to the work of Governor Brian Schweitzer and Minister of State Dinny Mc Ginley, TD individuals who strive to promote the The weekend concluded with the interests of Ireland on the world stage. unveiling of the Tip O’Neill Interpretive Panels adjacent to the Tip O’Neill Upon receiving the 2013 Tip O’Neill Irish monument on the Shorefront in Diaspora Award award from Minister Buncrana by Tip’s son Tommy and his of State Dinny Mc Ginley TD, Governor wife Shelly in the presence of the County Schweitzer stated “This award means Mayor, Cllr Ian Mc Garvey and of the the world to me; it is a wonderful Buncrana Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Mc honour to come back to Donegal and be Laughlin. presented with this prestigious award.” He also spoke with tremendous pride Footage of the 2013 Tip O’Neill Irish of his grandmother, Hannah Friel, who Diaspora Award and of the Tip O’Neill left Rathmullan in 1899 at the age of 22 Diaspora Lecture may be viewed on to seek a better life and who became a www.tiponeillirishdiasporaaward.ie successful businesswoman and built up and www.donegalgathering.ie and www. Schools Essay Competition a property portfolio in Montana where donegaldiaspora.ie thousands of Irish people resided close to the copper and gold mines. Governor Schweitzer described the life of the Irish in Montana today compared to the late 1800s and about the wealth of the Irish culture and identity which is very strong and referred to various museums where ancestry can be traced back to the early 19th Century.

“Coming here is like coming home,” said Tommy O’Neill, “our father’s grandparents were born just outside Buncrana so we still see this place as home. When you’re an Irish-American, you never forget your Irish roots because it means so much about what we are and who we are.” Governor Brian Schweitzer- the 2013 recipent of the L-R- County Mayor Ian Mc Garvey with Sean Nós Dancer at the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award shoregreen in Buncrana

Donegal Community in Touch Page 5 News

GoVisitDonegal.com Donegal Tourism launched a brand new destination tourism website for County Donegal in 2013. GoVisitDonegal.com is a one-stop shop for visitors to County Donegal. The website has an extensive listing of all accommodation options throughout the County from 5 Star Hotels, Bed & Breakfast’s and Self-catering holiday cottages. GoVisitDonegal.com features all of County Donegal’s world-class visitor attractions from Europe’s Highest Sea Cliffs, Sliabh Liag to Ireland’s Most Northerly Point, Malin Head. GoVisitDonegal.com is a great place to search for the vast array of wonderful festivals and events taking place on all four corners of County Donegal. From the world-famous Earagail Arts Festival to the Rory Gallagher International Festival. Further language (German, French, Spanish) options will be added in 2014 along with a dedicated section on the Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland’s new Coastal Touring Route. In addition to the destination website, GoVisitDonegal.com has dedicated Twitter and Facebook Pages. So just click on www.govisitdonegal.com and plan your next Donegal Holiday. Visit us on www.facebook.com/govisitdonegal or tweet us @govisitdonegal.

New Chair of LYIT’s Governing Body appointed Fintan Moloney has been appointed by Ruairí Earagail Arts Festival. Quinn, Minister for Education and Skills, as Paul Hannigan, President LYIT, welcomed him the new Chair of LYIT’s Governing Body. He as the new Chairman, “We look forward to served as District Inspector of Taxes for Donegal drawing on Fintan’s vast expertise both in the in the mid-1980s and established Fintan public and private sectors. He brings significant Moloney & Co Ltd, Taxation and Financial experience including his contribution to the Consultants, 25 years ago. He is involved in wider Donegal community to our Governing local business, sports and the arts and was Body which will help us in determining the next previously Chair of Junior Chamber, phase of development for Letterkenny IT.” Mr Treasurer of Letterkenny Rugby Club, President Hannigan also paid tribute to the outgoing Chair of Letterkenny Rotary Club, Chair of the Irish Henry McGarvey, “I would like to thank Henry Management Institute North Region, and Fintan Moloney, the newly appointed Chairman of the for his valuable input over the last 2 years.” is currently on the Board of Directors of the LYIT Governing Body, with President Paul Hannigan.

Creating a North West Regional Ecosystem for Innovation and Jobs CoLab, the Innovation Centre at Letterkenny programmes to Letterkenny and Derry. the benefits first hand of how offering relevant IT, has recently outlined substantial funding knowledge coupled with strong networks with This total funding endorses LYIT’s approach to for 3 innovative projects designed to support government agencies, businesses, research regional development, combining the successful the future success of the North West Regional centres and the NW community is working provision of specialised knowledge, research Economy. proactively to help new entrepreneurs achieve and enterprise support for technology and life success. Many of the businesses located at In association with IT Sligo, CoLab has secured science entrepreneurs at CoLab. The Innovation CoLab are presently expanding nationally and over €1.2 million to deliver the next 3 years of Centre opened in 2009 and is currently operating globally.” New Frontiers, the successful Enterprise Ireland at full capacity. funded entrepreneur development programme. CoLab has recently launched a new website with Twenty eight (28) high-growth, technology- The WiSAR Lab at LYIT has been awarded details of the centre, clients and what is on offer, based, internationally-trading enterprises €1m from Enterprise Ireland for a Technology visit CoLab www.co-lab.ie employing 110 graduate knowledge workers are Gateway Programme, building further on their currently based at the centre. existing Wireless Sensor Research Centre. Furthermore CoLab, in association with “Our focus at CoLab is to continue to offer a Science Park, are partners positive innovation ecosystem of supports for in the £12m North West Regional Science Park technology entrepreneurs in order for their project, funded by EU Interreg, this project ideas to be commercialised. We have a very high involves bringing the world renowned and standard of entrepreneurs with world class ideas highly successful Northern Ireland Science and talent right across this region ” explains Park brand, operating model and support CoLab Manager, Patsy Donaghy. “We are seeing

Donegal Community in Touch Page 6 News DONEGAL DELEGATION VISIT TO NEW ENGLAND

Donegal Delegation Visit to New England, November 2013

The Mayor of Donegal, Cllr Ian McGarvey, led a delegation from Donegal to New England following on from an invitation extended to him by State Representative Eugene O’Flaherty of Massachusetts. This week long itinerary was undertaken to consolidate and to build on the substantial contacts and networking which has been developed between Donegal and Massachusetts (and the broader New England region) over recent years.

PORTLAND, MAINE SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS

Reception for Mayor at Maine Irish Heritage Centre: Maine Wind Energy Initiative: Meeting with Paul Federal Courthouse Springfield: Meeting with The Donegal delegation meeting with Maureen Coyne Williamson, Director and Industry Coordinator of Congressman Richie Neal of United States House Norris, Director and Committee of Maine Irish Heritage Maine Ocean & Wind Energy Initiative, to discuss areas of Representatives and Mayor Domenic Sarno of Centre with a view towards promoting partnership and of potential collaboration with special reference to Springfield. offshore wind generation. collaboration between centre and County Donegal with specific reference to Donegal Diaspora Project.

LOWELL, MASSACHUSETTS WALTHAM, MASSACHUSETTS

Federal Courthouse Springfield: Meeting with University of Massachusetts (UMass, Lowell): Mayor Massachusetts Life Sciences: Meeting with Katie Joyce, Congressman Richie Neal of United States House welcomed to UMass, Lowell by University Chancellor Vice President for Policy and Domestic & International of Representatives and Mayor Domenic Sarno of Marty Meehan. Partnership is being developed between Government Relations, Massachusetts Life Sciences. Mass Springfield. Donegal and Center for Irish Partnerships, UMass, Lowell Life Sciences visited Donegal in June of this year as a part of the delegation led by Senate President Therese Murray.

WORCESTER, MASSACHUSETTS

President’s Museum, Worcester, MA: The Donegal Worcester City Council: Reception for Mayor at Meeting with Worcester Chamber of Commerce and delegation were invited to and attended reception Worcester City Council. Presentation of Key to City by Economic Development – pictured with President at the President’s Museum, Worcester, and met with Mayor Joseph Petty. and Chief Executive Officer, Tim Murray and Mayor Massachusetts House of Representatives Speaker De Joseph Petty. Leo and other State Representatives, educational and business interests.

Donegal Community in Touch Page 7 News DONEGAL DELEGATION VISIT TO NEW ENGLAND

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Massachusetts State House: Meeting with President of Massachusetts State Senate, Massachusetts State House: Reception for Mayor hosted by State Representative Senator Therese Murray and with Samantha Dallaire, Economic Development Director, Gene O’Flaherty. Attended by representatives of the Donegal Association, Boston, Office of Senate President and President’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Kerry Harrison. representatives of Irish undocumented, Boston Irish Business Association, U.S. Political President Therese Murray has been a strong supporter and advocate for Donegal and representatives, members of Donegal/Irish community in Boston and a range of key the North West of Ireland region in the U.S. economic, cultural and education contacts for the greater Boston area.

Irish International Immigration Centre (IIIC): Donegal County Council, working closely with the Irish International Immigration Centre in its role in supporting Irish and Donegal immigrants to the Greater Boston Area. Meeting with Director Ronnie Millar Olin College of Engineering: Meeting with Olin College of Engineering, Vincent Marno, and with Programme Directors, Ciara Lavery, Danielle Owen, Erika Bareiss, Janey Kain College Provost and with other faculty members and student representatives. and Janey Tallarida.

Solas Awards 2013 The Irish International Immigrant Centre On December 6, nearly 500 people turned out for the Irish International Immigrant Center’s 2013 Solas Awards Celebration at Boston’s John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. It was a lively occasion as the IIIC launched its 25th year serving immigrant families and young people from Ireland and around the world, and presented awards to some inspiring leaders.

Massachusetts Technology Collaborative: Meeting with Massachusetts Technology IIIC staff member Ciara Lavery and volunteer Neil Hurley with Mary and J.P. Doherty of Collaborative. Massachusetts Technology Collaborative had visited Donegal in June of the Donegal Association of Greater Boston at the 2013 Solas Awards Celebration. this year as part of the delegation led by Senate President Therese Murray. Donegal Community in Touch Page 8 Donegal Business LYIT takes crucial step to make Killybegs Wind Energy Centre

Signed up for opportunity Paul Hannigan, President of LYIT, signs an agreement with Bob Dickens, MD Safety Technology Ltd, last week in Killybegs pictured with fellow colleagues and key stakeholders. Safety Technology will accredit selected elements of modules on the LYIT Wind Energy Technician course which will mean that graduates will now be qualified to work in the UK. It also opens up opportunities for industry short courses which could see Killybegs become a centre of excellence in Wind Energy training. Also in the photo are (front, l-r): Dr John Doran, LYIT Lecturer and Manager of the Wind Energy Centre; Ben Williams, Technical and Business Development Manager, Safety Technology Ltd.; John Nugent, Regional Manager (North West) IDA. (Back, l-r): John Andy Bonar, Head of Development; Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin, Head of Department of Hospitality & Tourism; Dr Seán Duffy, Head of School of Tourism; Justin Walsh, Secretary/Financial Controller; Donnchadh Ó Baoill, LYIT Governing Body; Billy Bennett, Registrar; and Patricia Murrin, Killybegs Chamber.

Letterkenny IT’s Wind Energy mean that graduates will be qualified to not Commenting on the recent agreement only work in Ireland, but now in the UK and Bob Dickens, Managing Director, Safety Centre at Killybegs formally further afield. It also opens up the possibility Technology added, “We’re delighted to be completed an alliance, which of offering these and other short courses to working with the team at LYIT, they place the will enhance the employability the Wind Energy industry to up-skill and same emphasis as we do, on quality, safety re-certify personnel on a bi-annual basis, as and best practice. LYIT has been extremely of its wind technician graduates required by regulation here in Ireland and the proactive and helpful and we knew early and make Killybegs a centre UK. on we this was the partner in Ireland we wanted to work with. We’re looking forward of excellence for Wind Energy According to Dr John Doran, LYIT and to an exciting and long working relationship Manager of the Wind Energy Centre, “We’ve Training for the industry. in providing the RenewableUK and GWO worked very closely with our wind industry training to graduates, as well as surrounding Located at Killybegs, LYIT is the partners to deliver the wind energy centre wind farm owners and operators.” only college in Ireland with a and its current programme over the last three Wind Turbine Training Tower. years. The current Minor Award in Wind “It was a fortuitous meeting of minds,” Energy Technology is offered to unemployed continues Dr Doran. “LYIT was looking Safety Technology Ltd (STL) is regarded people through the government’s Springboard to enhance the qualification so that our as a leading supplier of Personal Safety initiative and gives graduates the opportunity graduate technicians would be approved to Equipment and Training for working at Height to re-enter the work force in this growing, work in the UK, and STL were looking for a and Rescue in the Utility/Wind Energy Sectors exciting sector of Irish industry.” partner in Ireland. This agreement could be a significant step in making Killybegs in UK and Europe. It has strong industry “The alliance with Safety Technology Ltd will a centre of excellence for the wind energy links in the UK, Spain, Brazil and US. The increase the employability of these graduates industry. We will be able to offer short Wind Energy sector is heavily regulated and since it will include Global Wind Organisation courses to the industry where technicians technicians working in the UK and Ireland and Renewable UK approved safety training from all over Europe can train and enhance need to be trained by a certified company and certification for their safety modules. Our their qualifications. This will add value to the recognised by RenewableUK and the Global graduates will leave us not only with a LYIT region and Killybegs in particular, with spins World Organisation (GWO) in: Working Minor Award in Wind Energy Technology, but offs for the local hotels, restaurants and other at Heights and Rescue, First Aid, Manual also a BZEE Award and RUK/GWO certification enterprises.” Handling and Fire Awareness. LYIT will be in Working at Heights and Rescue, First Aid, delivering these modules as an integral part Manual Handling and Fire Awareness. These For more information please visit: of their Wind Energy Technician course in certifications will no doubt increase their www.lyit.ie conjunction with Safety Technology. It will employability skills.”

Donegal Community in Touch Page 9 Donegal Business

Opportunity on our doorstep On The Job, Grads Talk About Staying In Donegal Local company SendMode is currently employing 3 LYIT computing graduates at their office in Letterkenny, Austin Quinn, Michael Tourish and Myles Connor. They talk about why they feel that they’re getting excellent experience and career development right here in Donegal.

SendMode are experts on mobile technology very lucky to have got the job here. Because Of course there’s help if you need it too.” and marketing and have grown hugely, both there are always new technologies and trends, He describes where the company began, in Ireland and Europe. They currently employ you’re refreshing your skills continually.” 10 people, 3 of whom are graduates of LYIT. “SendMode started off as a low cost text Most of their clients are overseas and the “I enjoyed studying at LYIT, I always had an message provider, now we’re in 10 countries, company is now set to expand into South interest in computing and I’ve used what I’ve servicing all our clients from Donegal. Our Africa. learned at SendMode.” The standard of the customers drive innovation in our business, course is as good if not better than others I’ve we have the technical skills, while our “It’s a mindset,” explains Myles, “I think spoken to. LYIT is well connected to industry customers know the messages they wish to you’re almost brainwashed into thinking well, which means the courses include many get out there. We provide the most efficient there isn’t going to be any jobs here. I was practical aspects.” ways of doing this.” really surprised when I heard about the job at SendMode. There’s a great atmosphere you Michael Tourish is the newest recruit. “I’ve “Our newest product will combine all mobile don’t mind coming into work in the morning. been doing a lot of work for android apps and social marketing into one package which We’re always busy.” which is brilliant. I didn’t expect to be doing is easy, measurable and accountable. It will this kind of work straight away. I’m learning take the time, effort and complexity out of Myles is a mature student who returned to that there’s a big difference learning coding staying on top of so many channels.” study Computer Security and Forensics, after and doing it every day,” he laughs. Michael Speaking about technology jobs in Donegal 14 years working. “With a family here,” he graduated in Computer Games Development he says, “My attitude is there’s an enormous says, “I didn’t really have a choice; I had to this year. find a position in the NW. However, I didn’t amount of talent in NW, the opportunities to expect to get such a great opportunity in a go- “I like learning new things and even though go with that talent may be limited. However ahead company. I look after most of the sales I’ve only been at SendMode 3 months I’m we’re delighted to able to assist graduates in South Africa.” constantly learning something new and I’ve understand our business. We like to see how found that what I’ve studied as stood to me. they are as engineers and people. So far “The course at LYIT was challenging but also It’s a great place to work.” we’ve employed quite a few.” rewarding. The lecturers are very supportive and encourage you all the way. That makes a John McNamara, CEO of SendMode, explains, What advice would the LYIT graduates give to huge difference.” “Our aim is to provide the most effective people looking to work in technology? “There marketing tools for our customers and we are opportunities in Donegal, sometimes you Austin studied Applied Computing and is are constantly innovating and adding new have to be a bit flexible. Keep your options the longest with SendMode. He says, “When technology. So we have to ensure our team open. It can be hard, but be patient. Send in you’re working for a smaller company that is are familiar with new trends.” a CV to SendMode!” growing, you get experience across the board. The experience I have gained here is far He continues, “We’re open to giving people a Visit: www.sendmode.com superior to others that I’ve spoken to. I feel chance and allowing them to grow on the job.

Donegal Community in Touch Page 10 Donegal Business

LYIT course offering unique link with China

A group of 14 students at LYIT are off to China “My own background would for three months’ work experience as part be in hospitality & like a few of a unique Springboard course being run, of my classmates, we would for the first time, at Letterkenny Institute of hope to possibly move to Technology (LYIT). Shanghai if we can secure full- time positions. The CEO of a The students are taking part in a course US company out there is going studying Professional Selling & International to meet us on arrival & give us Marketing with Chinese. The course involves the benefit of his experience in five months studying at LYIT & a three-month China. It really is an exciting placement with a company which trades opportunity for all of us,” The Springboard group who are going to China internationally in China. Michael McKinney Michael explained. from Bundoran is one such student. This it to be as good a match as it can be & this is week he spoke to the about The class of 12 men & two women are done through our Dublin based partners who his expectations from the course & the finalising their visas as part of their have many contacts in China. opportunity to work side by side with native orientation for their 90 day stay. The students Chinese employees in Shanghai. “We are will not be paid while on placement in China The LYIT course is the only one of its kind working through a Chinese, Dublin-based but their flights & accommodation will be in the country offeringthe placement in company called Zhida Ice who are organising covered. China with local companies. UCC is offering our placements. Their aim is to create a similar course but placements are in links between Irel& & Chinese companies. EXPERIENCE VALUED Irel&. The other two Lecturers delivering Our placements will depend on our own Jill Murphy who teaches the students M&arin the course are Paul McGuckin (Professional experience. We are learning M&arin Chinese also helps to match the student’s skills to the Selling) & Kathleen McGettigan (International with international business & marketing. companies they will work with. “We want Marketing).

LETTERKENNY AND KILLYGEGS CONFERRING 2013’

www.lyit.ie Donegal Community in Touch Page 11 the Ireland Homecoming Study Programme

What is the Ireland Homecoming Study Programme? The Ireland Homecoming Study Programme (IHSP) is open to the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Irish emigrants who are interested in completing a semester of study, two semesters or an entire undergraduate degree at one of Irelands Institutes of Technology. The IHSP will be of particular interest to the Irish Diaspora located outside of the European Union who would normally be subject to full Non-EU tuition fees.

Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) is proud to be in a position to offer this opportunity to members of the Irish Diaspora, especially those with family connections in the North West Region of Ireland.

IHSP Tuition Fee: €7,500 In addition students should budget a minimum of €7,500 to cover their cost of living for two semesters in Ireland. Bachelor Degree Programmes available at LYIT include: Business, Accounting, Law, Languages, Sports, Design and Creative Media, Computing, Science, Health Studies, Civil, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality and Culinary Arts. Please see www.lyit.ie/courses/ for details of programmes of study.

How do students qualify for the programme? IHSP Requirements: Applicants must be a minimum age of 17 years on January 1st on the year of application i.e the intake year. 1. Students must demonstrate that they have completed a High School Diploma equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. 2. Applicants who hold Irish passports will automatically qualify. 3. Applicants who do not hold an Irish passport need to demonstrate one of the following: a. Their parent(s) or grandparent(s) had a registered Irish birth, b. Their parents(s) or grandparent(s) were Irish citizens and/or held an Irish passport or dual citizenship. c. If neither of your parents was born in Ireland but you can claim Irish Citizenship by descent, you can use a Certificate of Entry in the Foreign Births Register issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the long form of your civil birth certificate in support of your application. d. Holders of the Certificate of Irish Heritage are now eligible to apply. See www.heritagecertificate.ie

Please note: Applicants may also qualify for the IHSP through marriage and adoption. Relevant supporting documentation will be required.

How do students apply for this programme? Expressions of interest should be made directly to the International section of the relevant Institute of Technology, email [email protected], quoting IHSP and indicating how you satisfy the requirements listed above. The deadline for applications is July 4th each year to begin your programme of studies the following September.

Donegal Community in Touch Page 12 the Ireland Homecoming Study Programme

Live in, Learn in & Experience Ireland’s North West Region

The Irish Homecoming Study Programme was launched as a pilot programme on March 17th 2010, St. Patricks Day, in Washington DC by the former Taoiseach Mr. Brian Cowen.

Programme Introduction

This new pilot programme aims to encourage the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the Irish Diaspora, residing outside of the European Union, to return to Ireland for their Higher Education studies. The participating Institutes of Technology recognize the important role that the Irish Diaspora plays in promoting Irish Culture and Trade.

Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) is proud to be in a position to offer this opportunity to members of the Irish Diaspora, especially those with family connections in the North West Region of Ireland.

Students who participate in this programme will have the opportunity to study at any one of Irelands Institutes of Technology. Students who qualify will benefit from the new “Irish Diaspora tuition fee”. For the first time the Irish Diaspora has been recognised and rewarded by the Irish State through the creation of a reduced tuition fee for the (non-EU resident) Irish Diaspora. Students will also have the opportunity to live with Irish families during their stay in Ireland, further adding to the student’s cultural experience and strengthening the student’s cultural links with Ireland.

Irish Diaspora

The Irish Diaspora consists of Irish emigrants and their descendants in countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa and continental Europe. The Diaspora maximally interpreted, consists of over 70 million people, which is over fifteen times the population of the island of Ireland itself. According to the Emigrant Advice Network (EAN), 3.1 million Irish Citizens (Passport Holders) live overseas.

A real Irish Experience

A big part of participating in the IHSP is the opportunity to live, absorb and engage with Irish culture.

Institutes of Technology

Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) is a University level Higher Education Institution, located in County Donegal, offering a range of undergraduate Bachelor and Post Graduate Masters Degree Programmes in Business, Accounting, Law, Languages, Sports, Design and Creative Media, Computing, Science, Health Studies, Civil, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality and Culinary.

Donegal Community in Touch Page 13 Social & cultural

Donegal part of the Wild Atlantic Way The 2,500 km Wild Atlantic Way is set to along the Donegal coastline to entice be Ireland’s first long-distance touring visitors to spend more time in the County. route, stretching along the Atlantic coast Working closely with key agencies from Donegal to West Cork. include Donegal Local Authority, NRA, The overall aim of the project is to Udaras na Gaeltachta and others Failte develop a long-distance driving route Ireland’s immediate pieces of work that will achieve greater visibility for the include route signage, development and west coast of Ireland in overseas tourist selling of Wild Atlantic Way experiences markets which will lead to increased as well as marketing with Tourism Ireland visitor numbers. overseas. There will be 3 signature Discovery points It is expected that all route signage will in County Donegal, Malin Head, Fanad be in place for March 2014. Head and Sliabh Liag. In addition to this Keep up to date with the project on: Fanad Lighthouse in Summer we will have 34 smaller discovery points www.failteireland.ie/wildatlanticway Gaeltacht Cheanada Comes To The Donegal Gaeltacht weeklong and weekend Irish visiting the Gaeltachtaí of Ireland including those language courses, in their Kingston of County Donegal. Arailt Mac Giolla Chainnigh as setting’ as well as a Canadian well as others in the group had already attended Oireachtas na Gaeilge over the past Oideas Gael Irish courses in past years and Arailt three years. Gaeltacht Cheanada himself was initially a beginner in adult Irish has received support from Glór weekends with Liam Ó Cuinneagáin, in Brampton, na nGael, the Irish language Ontario. The group spent two days participating in community promotions group as the Oideas Gael Hallowe’en Irish course along with well as from Oireachtas na Gaeilge groups from West and East Belfast and other adult Gaeltacht Cheanada Group here in Ireland. This July, Oireachtas participants. The Gaeltacht group then continued Cheanada had as its special guest onwards to Gaoth Dobhair, Derry, Belfast and with A refreshing and unique Irish language initiative Ray Basset, the Ambassador of Ireland to Canada as their final session at Oireachtas na Gaeilge 2013 in is happening in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Arailt well as Ray Mac Mánais, President Mary McAleese’s Cill Áirne, County Kerry. Mac Giolla Chainnigh, a recently retired Army biographer and Oideas Gael teacher. has established a ‘Gaeltacht Thar Sáile Those of the Donegal Diaspora in Canada may ‘ – A ‘Gaeltacht Abroad’. Arailt and his growing The Gaeltacht Cheanada group, as part of its contacht Arailt Mac Giolla Chainnigh by visiting band of Irish language enthusiasts have organised extensive activities, has spent the last two weeks www.oireachtas.ca/about-eng.shtml Across the Water – A Soundscape on the Past

Finbarr Doherty, composer & songwriter, and filmmaker Paul McCarroll are leading a group of artists from around Inishowen to bring Charlie McGlinchey into the 21st Century, through a multimedia performance. The first two performances featured local musicians, artists and photographers, and played to full houses and acclaim, in Derry and Culdaff, during September and October of this year. L to R Seamus Devenny, Paul McCarroll, Paul Kelly, Lorna McLaughlin, Finbarr Doherty Charles McGlinchey, in the twilight of his years, remembered the stories and traditions of life in In 2007, on his return from 7 years in Boston, emigration, loss of the old ways, and everyday life. Clonmany, Co Donegal during the 18th and 19th Finbarr released Across the Water - an album Both events were filmed for a documentary on the Centuries. These reminiscences were written down inspired by The Last of the Name. As a returning by local school-teacher, Patrick Kavanagh in the book by the Culdaff-based Digital Story-tellers. emigrant to a rural community he found this book Paul McCarroll lived in Dublin and Clare for many 1940s. The manuscripts were subsequently edited a fascinating piece of local history to explore by Brian Friel, who described it as ‘a chronicle of a years, but has recently returned to Inishowen and and give a contemporary exposition. He is now established iSeanachai.com period of profound transition in this island’. The re-interpreting those songs in this atmospheric It is hoped to tour the show internationally resulting book The Last of the Name was described show with drama, music, photography and during 2014 – for information or bookings, email by the late Seamus Heaney as “full of emotional paintings. The soundscape is complimented [email protected] truth and the beauty of immediate, trusting by the story-telling that features diverse topics: or visit www.finbarrmusic.com and see them at speech.” teaching Latin in the fields, drinking songs, www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSs3NCEFZ4k

Donegal Community in Touch Page 14 Community Links NYPD Visit to Donegal On Monday October 7th, 2013, the NYPD Club joined forces with the 2012 Donegal All- Stars in a charity match against an inter-county legends selection. The game was a special “Gathering” event and was played under the floodlights in front of a large crowd at Sean Mac Cumhaill Park, Ballybofey with all proceeds benefiting the Friends of Letterkenny General Hospital charity.

The NYPD & Donegal All-Stars team

The Donegal Legends team who lined out in Mac Cumhaill Park

The game was the brainchild of retired NYPD Inspector, Paul Former Donegal great, Martin McHugh took charge of an exceptional Mc Cormack and the Donegal Senior Team Manager Jim Mc legends team that included Bernard Flynn from Meath, Nudie Hughes Guinness, after the 2012 All-Star team visited New York in from Monaghan, from Derry, Stephen Kennedy from November 2012. Paul and Jim guided their squad to a thrilling Kilkenny and 1992 Donegal heroes , Tony Boyle, Martin 7.15 to 6.14 victory on the evening. On hand for their squad were Shovelin, and Noel Hegarty. Ireland and Donegal captain, Michael Murphy, 2012 Player of After the game, a great night of music and old battle stories was had the Year , Neil Gallagher, Frank Mc Glynn, Mark Mc by all at Jacksons Hotel. Special thanks to the Donegal G.A.A. County Hugh, Anthony Thompson and Neil Mc Gee. Their man of the Board, Sean Mac Cumhaills Club, Donegal Town Community Band and all of the volunteers that worked so hard to make the event such match was Derry legend Joe Brolly, who tantalised and thrilled a success and providing a great financial windfall for Letterkenny the crowd every time he touched the ball. General Hospital.

Former NYPD Inspector, Paul Mc Cormack and Donegal Senior Football Team Manager Star of the Show, Joe Brolly Donegal and Ireland Captain, Michael Murphy Jim Mc Guinness

Donegal Community in Touch Page 15 Community Links

DONEGAL ASSOCIATION OF PHILADELPHIA CELEBRATES 125 YEARS There are many networks and organizations that have supported the members. If you have an affinity to Co. Donegal and are interested lives of the Donegal diaspora in Philadelphia. For over 125 years the in giving to others as well as learning about your Irish heritage in Philadelphia Donegal Association has been integral to the support and Donegal, we welcome you to attend our monthly meetings. Please visit connection of people abroad. our website at www.philadonegal.com for more information contact The history of the Donegal Society dates back to September 18, Bernadette Browne (President) at [email protected] 1888 when a group of men gathered at Lewars Hall, Ninth and Spring Gardens Streets in Philadelphia. The trust and legacy of this organization has been handed down year after year and thus we Past President Mary Crossan are celebrating our 125th Anniversary. Our annual fundraiser is the and past Vice President Donegal Ball which is rich with history and tradition. This year’s Nora Campbell with 2013 ball was held on Saturday November 30th at the Irish Center of International Mary from Philadelphia 6815 Emlen Street, Philadelphia PA. Dungloe, Meghan Davis, 2013 Philadelphia Mary, We have been active for years in the support of the Mary from Dungloe Moira Cahill and current in Ireland. Over the last few years we have had two international Second Vice President winners from the Philadelphia area. We hope to continue the growth Mellissa Bowers. and survival of our Association through the introduction of new Donegal Association Dublin The Donegal Association Dublin held their Annual General Meeting T.D. for Dublin North West. She was first elected to the Dáil in 1992 on Wednesday 23rd October in the Regency Hotel, Drumcondra. and was re-elected at every election since. She was an excellent Sorcha Ní Dhomhnaill, Chairperson, welcomed everyone to the choice to give this year’s lecture as her mother Sally Shorthall is a meeting and reviewed the Association highlights. It was a special Lifford woman who was both secretary and President of Cumann year for the Association when Jim McGuinness was inaugurated as Thír Chonaill. Donegal Person of the Year. Jim has said that this award of Donegal The closing date for receipt of nominations for the next Donegal Person of the Year was particularly special and he was honoured Person of the Year was the 30th November 2013 which recognises and delighted to receive it on behalf of the Donegal team along with person who have made a significant contribution to the promotion the management and backroom support teams. He is a truly great of the county at local, national, or international level. For more ambassador for the Donegal Association! information, please visit the Association’s website The Donegal Association held their Annual Mass of Remembrance in www.donegalassociation.ie or contact Public Relations Officer, the Regency Hotel, Drumcondra, on Sunday 17th November 2013, The Ms Maria Ryan on 0035387 2439317 Father McDyer lecture was given by Róisín Shortall TD, Independent

Hugh McGroddy Secretary, Martin McGettigan President, Marie Ryan PRO Long standing members Tony Dunleavy & Kathleen Sheerin looking & Sorcha Ní Dhomhnaill Chairperson, Donegal Association Committee happy at the Donegal Association Dublin AGM! Members pictured at the AGM

Maria Ferguson Roisin McBride For further information on this e-zine Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] or on the Donegal Diaspora Project, [email protected] Tel: +353 (0) 74 9172461 please contact: Tel: +353 (0)74 97 24466 DonegalDonegal Community Community in Touch in Page Touch 16 Page 16 Design by: onthedot.ie