Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal - community in touch Issue 12 JUNE 2011 / Eagrán 12 An Meitheamh 2011

News 2 Donegal Business 7 Education and Learning 10 Social and Cultural 12 Donegal Community Links 15 Message From Mayor A Chara

As Mayor, this will be my final message to you as I leave office on the 27th June 2011. I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed keeping in touch with us through the E-zine. From my own perspective this has been a very busy year, but enjoyable, interesting and varied. I have learned so much about my own County and have had a wonderful opportunity exploring all that is so great about our beautiful County of Donegal. Over the past number of weeks our Country has been preparing for two state visits, the first of which was Queen Elizabeth 11 and then the visit of the President of America, Mr Barrack Obama. There are many of our County folk who find themselves undocumented Donegal, the Inishowen Peninsula, Carndonagh – in America at present, and I hope that the President’s visit will have re-opened that conversation of immigration reform that is so the Donegal of my childhood. badly needed. As we approach the summer many of you will be may have been born and raised a very strong sense of cultural identity. The planning your summer holidays, some of you may contemplate a Bourke from Ballina in Co. Mayo but richness of the language, music, literature visit back home, - if you are I would say a Cead Mile Failte awaits you. I was always acutely aware that I was and indeed all cultural manifestations Donegal is preparing for the summer with its many festivals and I of course the Earagail Arts Festival in July, we have also been also an O’Donnell from Carndonagh. runs deep and benefits all on the island of promoting Donegal through the very successful ‘Donegal Live’ Ireland. It has been interesting to see the events in Dublin and in Glasgow. Again as always, keep in touch And I was, and am, a proud member of the contributions to our culture – for example with us back home; keep well and good luck and best wishes to all. O’Donnell clan. by the work of the painters of – Slan agus Beannacht where the influence of isolation is so clear I treasure the wonderful weeks we spent but in a very positive sense. Cllr Cora Harvey as a family in Donegal every summer – Mayor when my mother, four brothers and myself Over the years “my Donegal” has extended decamped en masse to my grandparents’ to include such different aspects as the Welcome Fáilte home and my father commuted on the Glenveagh National Park, the fishing weekends. And the sun always shone on This is the twelfth edition of Donegal Community in Touch. The community in Killybegs, the Iron previous editions have been very well received by the extended all those summer days! Age fortress Grianan an Aileach, the Donegal Community at home and abroad. We will continue to contemporary architectural gem of Liam develop and to produce this e-zine as a means of connecting Even in my younger days I was aware that McCormick’s Burt Church, the Rosses, with people who have an interest in, or connection to Donegal, there was a sense of isolation in Donegal Dunlewy overlooked by the Errigal wherever they may be living. We look forward to receiving your – an isolation that was very welcome for feedback with regard to the e-zine and with regard to issues that Mountains - I could go on and on. But I will you might wish us to highlight in the e-zine. holidaymakers but very difficult for the summarise by saying that Donegal, Dun people for whom Donegal is home, and na nGall or the Fort of the Foreigner is a Seo an dóú déag eagrán de Pobal i dTeagmháil Dhún na nGall. the isolation was particularly keen in terms place where I never feel like a foreigner and Bhí pobal Dhún na nGall sa bhaile agus i gcéin an-shásta leis of transport and economy. But I believe where everyone is made to feel at home. na heagráin eile. Leanfaidh muid orainn ag forbairt agus ag these difficulties have led to Donegal foilsiú an e-iris seo mar uirlís chun teagmháil a choinneáil le and its people, in whatever part of the daoine a bhfuil suim nó baint acu le Dún na nGall, pé áit a Mary Robinson bhfuil cónaí orthu. Beidh fáilte roimh aiseolas maidir leis an world they are living, benefitting from a Former President of Ireland e-iris agus le hábhar a mhian libh a bheith clúdaithe ann.

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Donegal County Council Donegal - community in touch Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil News / Nuacht 2 Earagail Arts Festival takes Donegal to the EU Parliament “The Development and promotion of tourism is a key strategic goal of and Donegal County Development Board. The Earagail Arts Festival showcases the very best contemporary arts, culture and heritage throughout the County and has helped promote the Donegal Brand throughout the world. The Earagail Arts Festival provides visitors with a compelling reason to come to Donegal, and to experience our excellent accommodation, award-winning restaurants and sample our high-quality local produce, while at the same time take in the Blue Flag Beaches and Iconic attractions like Malin Head, Sliabh Liag, Earrigal and Glenveagh National Park”.

Cllr Dessie Larkin, Ms Moya Brennan, Mayor Cora Harvey, Pat the Cope Gallagher, MEP, Paul Brown, Director, Earagail Arts Festival, Cllr Patrick McGowan, EU Committee of The Regions, Seamus Neely, County Manager, Kevin O’Connor, Tourism Officer

In a new approach to the launch of its annual programme and part of it’s cultural tourism remit Earagail Arts Festival with the Donegal County Development Board is hosted it’s first ever international advance programme launch at the offices of the EU Parliament at 6pm on Tuesday 24th May. The launch was facilitated by Donegal MEP Pat “The” Cope Gallagher and Cllr Patrick MacGowan, EU Committee of The Regions and Donegal County Council meeting with EU Commission Officials and Irish Regions Office Officials in Brussels featured a breathtaking performance by Moya Brennan. Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP Commented: Cllr. Patrick McGowan, Head of the Irish Delegation of the EU Committee of “I am delighted to have been able to arrange the launch of the 2011 Earagail the Regions, Commented: Arts Festival at the prestigious location of the European Parliament in Brussels. I am grateful to all who assisted and in particular the sponsors who “As an elected member and representative of the North West Region of responded so positively.” Ireland, I am delighted that the EU Committee of the Regions is supporting this important event. The event will allow to demonstrate “I am confident that the publicity here in Europe will not only raise the its tourism and cultural potential at a time when funding and investment international profile of this award-winning festival but also attract more in the region is so important. The European Union Structural Funds such as visitors to Donegal and Ireland. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase INTERREG are vital for this regions economic development.” our arts, culture, food and tourism. In this respect, I am particularly pleased that Moya Brennan from Clannad accepted the invitation to perform and to Mayor Cora Harvey who formally launched the event on behalf of Donegal launch the festival here in the European Parliament.” County Council, commented: For further information visit http://www.eaf.ie/ “This is a tremendous opportunity for County Donegal to take the initiative at the beginning of what we hope will be a very successful tourism season. The County has been leading the way in recent times with the highly successful Donegal Live events in Glasgow and Dublin. In addition to targeting these key European markets, this event is an opportunity to continue to build on the Donegal Homecoming Initiative that I hope will result in an increased awareness of what the County has to offer amongst the world-wide Donegal Diaspora.”

Donegal County Council continues to support a wide range of festival and events initiatives across County Donegal. Commenting on the launch of the Earagail Arts Festival Programme, County Manager, Seamus Neely said: Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP pictured with Moya Brennan at the European Parliament launch of the Earagail Arts Festival 2011

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Jimmy Harte and Delving into ‘Donegal’s Brian O’Domhnaill Farming Heritage’ A free booklet entitled ‘Donegal’s Farming Heritage’ by Dr. Jonathan Bell & Mr. Mervyn Watson was launched recently as part of the implementation elected to the Seanad of the County Donegal Heritage Plan. The booklet is based on an audit of heritage objects associated with farming and fishing in County Donegal commissioned by the County Donegal Heritage Office, Donegal County Council and The Heritage Council.

The booklet highlights the hand-held implements (such as spades, loys, rakes, sickles and flails) and horse-operated implements (such as swing ploughs, drill ploughs, harrows, seed drills, reaping machines and threshing machines) used in farming in the county. Senator Harte Senator O’Domhnaill The mechanisation of Senator Harte, the son of former TD , secured 70 first agriculture and the preference votes and placed fourth in the voting out of 35 candidates conservation of Donegal’s with nine seats up for grabs. farming heritage are also addressed. The booklet is Senator Harte stated “I’m delighted and honoured to have been elected illustrated with historical to the Seanad. I look forward to giving the whole of Donegal a voice and modern photographs in Leinster House. I will also represent the views of all those I met from around the county throughout my extensive journey across the State in recent weeks. I want and includes a glossary of Cover of the ‘Donegal’s Farming Heritage’ selected farming heritage to pay tribute to all those who have supported me throughout both the booklet by Dr. Jonathan Bell & Mr. Mervyn Dail and Seanad election campaigns.” objects and practices. Watson.

He is the second Senator elected this time around from Donegal Free copies of the booklet are available from the County Donegal alongside Fianna Fail’s Brian O’Domhnaill elected yesterday, which means Heritage Office on +353 749172576 / [email protected] that both constituencies in Donegal will have a voice in the next Seanad.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Success for “One Donegal” Float “One Donegal” entered a float in the 2011 St. Patrick’s Day received the good news that the “One Donegal” float had received an award Parade in . The aim of the float was to share the from the Letterkenny Chamber for being the best carnival entry in the parade idea that in Donegal we are “Embracing and Celebrating Diversity”.

Many of the participants wore costumes of national significance from countries throughout the world, while others wore the One Donegal clothing.

With drummers and music from all over the world this contributed to a real carnival atmosphere.

We were delighted with the support received from members of the community to illustrate the diverse nature of Donegal today and the richness of different cultures living within the county. Following the parade we

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Sliabh League included on CO2FREE Project - Cooperating ‘International Appalachian Trail’ 2 foster renewable energy & efficiencies

Donegal County Council is a partner in the new EU Funded project

CO2FREE: Cooperating 2 foster renewable energy & efficiencies. CO2FREE is an INTERREG IVC capitalisation Project led by ERNACT EEIG – Ireland. Ten Ireland is being included in the so-called ‘International Appalachian Trail’, an project partners from regions and cities across Europe have come together extension of the world-renowned walking route on the Canada/US border. to promote and take action towards a world with reduced CO2 emissions, to mitigate the impact of climate change. It has been recognized that The original trail stretches for 2,000 miles along the Appalachian Mountains Smart and Green are now becoming synonymous. In CO2FREE we show from Georgia to Maine and attracts 2.5 million hikers every year. how this can be done in practice. The project methodology is based on exchange of good practices and implementation of the Action Plans The proposed link will see the Irish section of the international trail start developed within each region. at the spectacular coastal cliffs of Slieve League in County Donegal and extend to the stunning Antrim coast, finishing in Ballycastle. It is Donegal County Council is promoting a common effort to make proposed that the new section will utilise existing trails in south Donegal Donegal a leader in the “Green Economy”. Donegal County eastwards from Slieve League (Bealach Na Gaeltachta - Slí Colmcille, Council is also carrying out some ICT based initiatives to increase Bluestacks Way etc) and would then continue into Northern Ireland. energy efficiencies, decrease energy consumption, and heighten awareness amongst staff on how computers and ICT peripherals The Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency Loyola should be used in a sustainable manner. Hearn, welcomed the extension of Ireland to the IAT saying - Find out more about all the CO2FREE “Good Practices” here “The extension of the International Appalachian Trail to Europe and in particular scenic Ireland, offers a whole new dimension for hikers and other Link to the project’s Newsletter here lovers of the outdoors”. Freshwater Pearl Mussel Measures The Freshwater Pearl Musssel Project funded by the European Regional this partnership approach in tackling shared issues to our mutual benefit. Development Fund, under the INTERREG IVA Programme, was formally launched by the The Mayor of Donegal, Cllr Cora Harvey, in on the 10th Consultancy services are being procured to support project delivery and May. Speaking at the launch she stated that the initiative recognized Donegal’s Donegal County Council is currently in the process of appointing consultants. status as a sanctuary for this endangered species where a pristine environment Further information is available from the project Coordinator, Dr Tony McNally could ensure its survival. While the pearl mussel may not be one of natures pin- email: [email protected] ups, and many people, even those that pass it by on a daily basis, are unaware of its presence, it is a quality mark assuring us that the highest environmental conditions exist in our rivers.

The County Manager Mr. Séamus Neely also emphasized the ‘flagship’ role of this species and our responsibility in ensuring its survival along with other species like salmon, trout and otter. This initiative will help to conserve pearl mussel populations in the study region, and will provide mechanisms, and guidance of relevance to conservation of the species throughout its range

On behalf of the Northern Ireland partner NIEA, Mr. Gabriel Nelson said that the Mr. Pat Colgan, Chief Executive of the Special EU Programmes Body project is yet another venture in a series of successful collaborations with DCC welcomed this challenging project as testament to the EU’s commitment in the area of environmental management. He looked forward to continuing to promoting environmental sustainability and bio-diversity.

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John Colgan Heritage Women Into Public Life Project Weekend - June 24th-26th 2011 In order to draw attention to the under-representation of women in local politics, a mock Council meeting entitled ‘Turning the Tables’ was held in The Colgan Hall, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal Donegal County Council where the gender balance was reversed with 26 women taking up seats along with 3 men.

Mayor Cora Harvey accepted motions to address the barriers inhibiting women’s participation and it is now hoped this is the start of a long term strategy to make the Council a more democratic structure.

The first women’s leadership programme, ‘Going Public’, was completed in February with 22 women from Inishowen and Derry receiving their awards. Two further programmes will be rolled out in September. A cross border ‘Strategic Leadership Programme’ will also start in September and is aimed at 24 women from Derry and Donegal who are already in a leadership positions.

The project is funded under the EU’s INTERREG IVA Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. The major theme this year is emigration which is as topical now as it was in the seventeenth century, when John Colgan set out to become For further information contact Eilish Gallagher– a Franciscan friar. The seminal event of his early life was the Flight of the [email protected] Earls from Rathmullan in 1607 and little did the aspiring friar know the impact it would have on his life. He came in contact with a distinguished group of his countrymen in the Irish College in Louvain where efforts were being made to record and preserve some of the great works of Irish history which were in danger of being lost forever. The Annals of the Four Masters is one of the fruits of their efforts. The weekend will feature local writers, musicians, lecturers and artists who will do everything in their power to make the event a memorable one. There will also be guided walks and field trips as well as drama and a dance. Local schoolchildren will participate by taking part in an art competition. The Donegal celebrates as North West Clonmany genealogical group will provide information and advice on family research. named European Golf Destination of the Year For more information visit: www.heritage.colganhall.com DONEGAL is celebrating after being voted European winners as part of a North West effort to promote the county as a golf destination. SPACE ial North West Project The International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) hosted The SPACEial North West project, which is funded under the Public Sector their annual Awards Ceremony recently in Valencia, Spain and flying the Collaboration Theme of the European Regional Development Fund, flag for Ireland was North & West Coast Links Golf who won the coveted INTERREG IVA Programme, held its second Project Steering Committee award for “European Golf Destination of the Year 2011”. meeting on the 18th April 2011. This project sets out to identify, capture and map key drivers of population change in the North West Region Cross Border In fact, IAGTO arrived in Donegal in April to learn first-hand from Irish golf Area (NWRCBA) over the 2000-2010 period. This project will also develop on industry members and Fáilte Ireland representatives what Ireland has to a cross border basis a web based ‘data hub’ and equip key decision makers, offer the overseas golfer. IAGTO is the global trade organisation for the agencies, local authority officials etc with the skills and expertise required golf tourism industry and is made up of 400 of the top specialist golf to interrogate this geographical information system in a manner that will tour operators in over 50 countries. It is estimated that these operators assist with more evidence based spatial planning, policy making and service control over 80% of golf holiday packages sold worldwide (outside of delivery in the NWRCBA for many years to come. This project will be formally Asia) and turnover of more than €1 billion per year. launched on the 20th June, 2011 in Lifford, County Donegal. County Donegal is the perfect location to come and enjoy your golfing For further information contact Marie at break. Its abundance of Links and Parkland courses put it on a ‘par’ with [email protected] the best in the world. Not to mention the breathtaking scenery, unrivaled coastline, culture and craic!

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Making Time Count RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta To mark the European Year of Volunteering Donegal County Council hosted a conference to highlight the potential of Time Banking to named Radio Station of Communities and Individuals in Donegal. The event was held in the Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny on Wednesday 9th March 2011. Time the Year banks are a new and exciting way for people to come together to help others and help themselves at the same time by sharing their skills. Participants “deposit” their time in the bank by giving practical help and/ or support to others and are able to “withdraw” their time when they need something done themselves. Everyone’s time is equally valued. Time banking has the potential to strengthen communities through reciprocity.

Rónán and Edel RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta has won Radio Station of the Year at the Celtic Media Festival. The winner was announced at the festival in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, and the award was accepted by Gort an Choirce native, Ceannaire of RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, Edel Ní Chuireáin. Accepting the award, Edel Ní Chuireáin said that it was a source of great pride for the service, and recognition of the dedication and hard work of the staff.

Raidió na Gaeltachta presenter Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí was named Radio Presenter of the Year at the festival. Rónán is from Cois Cláidí in Gaoth Dobhair in Donegal and presents the hugely-popular show Rónán Beo @ 3. Speakers at the event included Sam Hopley, Chief Executive of Timebanking UK, Jo-Anne Finlay from Omagh Transition Time Bank, Louise Oppermann from Séamus Mac Géidigh, Manager of the Donegal studio, said “I’d like to Community Time Bank Cork and Aoife Valley from LETS Falcarragh. This event congratulate Rónán and all the Rónán Beo team, especially producer was run through the CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership’s “One Donegal” Dónall Mac Ruairí”. initiative. See www.rte.ie/rnag

This comprises of a word map of the project area, populated with a mix of place names, landmarks, activities and cultural and historical references, providing potential visitors with a flavour of what they can expect to experience. (See Image) MalinWaters is the new consumer facing brand for the Sail West Project. The Sail West Project is a marine tourism initiative between partners in the North The MalinWaters brand will West Ireland including Donegal and Sligo, the maritime counties of Northern be launched during the Ireland and Western Scotland, and is led by Donegal County Council. The summer at a series of events project is funded under the EU’s INTERREG IVA Programme and managed across Ireland, Northern by the Special EU Programmes Body with co-funding provided by the Ireland and Scotland. A new Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland and the Department of consumer facing website Environment, Community and Local Government in the Republic of Ireland. www.malinwaters.com is to be launched this summer. The brand represents a shared maritime zone rich in history and culture, Details on the Sail West marine activities, wildlife, interesting sailing waters, islands, resorts and an project can be found at abundance of stunning natural resources including blue flag beaches and www.donegalcdb.ie breathtaking landscapes.

In order to communicate the cultural and physical linkages between the partner regions, a secondary mapping device was introduced to the brand.

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Killybegs - Ireland’s Premier Offshore Port said “In Killybegs we have here a port ready for the 21st century. Offshore energy exploration will not only benefit the port and its immediate environs but also the wider county with opportunities for new job creation and training.”

The brochure is now available in hard copy format and can be downloaded from www.donegalcdb.ie

The port of Killybegs renowned as a fishing port has in recent years evolved to include additional complementary services and become more multifunctional. The port has become a destination for cruise ships and it has also developed into a centre for servicing offshore energy exploration and renewable energy projects. IRELAND’S PREMIER OFFSHORE In recognition of its growing role as an offshore service centre, the County PORT Development Board has been the driving force in the publication of a K brochure highlighting Killybegs expertise in this area. ILLY CO. DONEGAL BEGS IRELAND The brochure was developed in partnership with Killybegs and District Chamber of Commerce, Killybegs Community Council and local business representatives. The purpose of the brochure is to showcase the port of Killybegs and to also provide details of local service providers. YOUR OFFSHORE CENTRE OF CHOICE FOR: LOGISTICS CARGO HANDLING The brochure was launched on Monday 4th April in the School of Tourism ENGINEERING VESSEL SUPPORT in Killybegs. Speaking at the launch, Donegal County Council Manager Seamus Neely said “The brochure will be a key marketing tool and will be used to target new business from offshore energy companies here in 54° 38’NORTH 08° 26’WEST Ireland and abroad”.

The Mayor of Donegal County Council Cllr. Cora Harvey, in her address Donegal Live in Glasgow The Donegal Live event which took place recently in Glasgow proved to be a runaway success with a large turnout of visitors from when the doors opened at 12 noon right through until 6pm. The owners of the Merchant City venue estimated attendance at the event to be in excess of 20,000 visitors. The entertainment aspect of the event in was also great success with back to back entertainment from start to finish provided by singers, dancers, comedians and entertainers. Representatives of trades in Donegal who had a stand at the event reported a very positive experience and advised that they had a lot of interest and enquires that they were hopeful would materialise into hard bookings and business over the coming years. The Deputy First Minister of Scotland, Ms. Nicola Sturgeon was extremely welcoming of Donegal County Mayor, Ms. Cora Harvey and this followed with another warm welcome from The Consul General of Ireland to Scotland, Ms. Susan Conlon. Both Ms. Sturgeon and Ms. Conlon stated that they believed the Donegal Live Event was an excellent initiative for Donegal and that they hoped it would grow to something even more significant in the future. Large Numbers in Attendance

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Not only is the taste important, the health benefits speak for themselves Donegal’s Liquid Gold as Donegal rapeseed oil has a much lower saturated fat content than any olive oil in the market. It only has 6% saturated fat content compared to Fast becoming a feature in kitchens around the country, most olive oils at 14% and sunflower oil at 10%. It contains Omega 3, 6 Donegal Rapeseed Oil is enjoying burgeoning success. and 9 as well as Vitamin E, in keeping with the 2:1 ratio recommended by nutritionists. According to Thomas Hughes Sales & Marketing Manager, oil seed rape is indigenous to northern Europe, Ireland included, and so our metabolism works best with rapeseed oil, just like the Italians consume vast amounts of olive oil which best suits their genetics.

The particular flavour of this rapeseed oil is attractive to many Irish chefs, one well known ambassador of the product is Country Living’s own Neven Maguire. “Neven was using our oil before we ever knew it! We struck up conversation with him at one of his cookery demonstrations, ready to pitch the product, and we couldn’t believe our ears when he revealed he used the oil all the time”. Now Thomas regularly travels to Nevens demonstrations throughout the country to promote and sell the rapeseed oil and secure new stockists.

“It’s really the taste that’s winning it. We’ve had people from as far as Texas and Chicago contacting us looking for our rapeseed oil”. Do they foresee the product stocked on shelves in stores across the Atlantic? “We certainly aren’t ruling out exports, we’re concentrating on consolidating our current extensive success in the Irish Market ”. All in good time.

“Would you believe the idea to set up the business actually came from Donegal Rapeseed Oil was recently featured on RTE’s Nationwide the Farmers Journal?” Austin Duignan, managing director of Donegal programme. Donegal Rapeseed Oil Co. Oakfield Demesne, Raphoe, Co. Rapeseed Oil tells me when asked what his initial inspiration was. “A Donegal. Tel: 074 9145386 Web: www.donegalrapeseedoilco.com couple of years ago Matt Dempsey wrote a piece of editorial on the need for a good food press for oil seed rape in Ireland. I looked into it and did my research, set up the company and as they say, the rest is history”.

Fast forward three years and with a Bridgestone Best in Ireland 2011 under their belt Austin, his partner Stephen Allen and their team have their foundations firmly set in the Irish rapeseed oil market. “The crop has been grown in Donegal since the 1980’s where until recent times it was exported, or used as a component in animal feeds” Austin explains. “Most of our yield comes from east Donegal and the natural nearby hinterland”. Once harvested it is brought to the now state of the art food plant where it is processed, bottled and packaged. We wanted to keep the processing as close as possible to the origin of the crop.

Part of the ethos of the company is to keep the product local and deal directly with farmers to give them the best possible price for their crop. No stranger to farming, Austin was brought up on a mixed farm in Boyle, Co Roscommon and now farms pedigree Angus cattle alongside running the business. He attributes the success of the rapeseed oil to its unique taste and flavour. Donegal has a long tradition of producing quality seed potatoes with a high health status due to its unique climate. “Our 400 miles of coastline provides high levels of clean sea air meaning disease has little chance to spread, so the crop has a fantastic environment in which to grow”. The seed is allowed to mature slowly in the pod. This is as a result of the longer day light hours due to the fact that we are more Northerly. Austin compares this to wine, “You might have the same variety of grape but because they are growing in two different regions the taste is noticeably different”. So, in effect the micro-climate here this far North gives it its distinctive taste.

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Donegal County Council Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal - community in touch Donegal Business / Gnó Dhún na nGall 9 Mangan Tours Launch Unique “Donegal Tours” Re-Awakening the Hidden Soul of Donegal

Glenveagh’s Golden Eagle with Donegal Tours Mr Gay Byrne at the launch of Donegal Tours

One of Donegal’s best known coach and tour operators, Mangan Tours, to come across spectacular views, friendly communities and distinctive has launched a new initiative to promote Donegal at home and abroad. heritage. It will be a real chance for people to re-discover our scenic ‘Donegal Tours’ is a new Day Tours programme, accessible to visitors who coastlines and the unspoiled beauty of mountains without having to drive would like to discover the county’s magic scenery and rich Donegal around themselves. Donegal’s natural beauty is second to none and it is a heritage, and to locals who would like to see more of their beautiful pleasure and an honour to be able to showcase this to visitors and locals county. alike.”

The proactive and much-needed initiative is set to provide a new platform The new organised tours will offer great exposure for county Donegal and to promote the Donegal brand locally and at international level. It also will create value for all participants at local level. It will provide the much comes at a time when tourist operators across Ireland are promoting the needed tourist link from Letterkenny to Glenveagh, Dunlewey, Ardara, new concept of ‘staycation’ whereby people are encouraged to holiday Slieve League, Inishowen, and Malin Head. at home. The official launch of Donegal Tours took place on the 22nd of May at Having decided to take the lead where nobody else has, Joseph Mangan the Donegal Live Event in Dublin. explained, “The tours will offer everyone (visitors & locals alike) the chance For more information check out www.donegaltours.ie or contact the booking office on 074 9128410. Thousands attend Donegal Live in Dublin The Donegal Live juggernaut moved on to the beautiful Iveagh Gardens, St. Stephens Green, Dublin on May 22nd. Following on from the hugely successful event in Temple Bar in 2010, Donegal Live featured the cream of Donegal’s music and arts performers. The event was well attend by trade and consumers, all eager to sample the best of Donegal. Whilst the music and dancing was a great draw on the day, the Glenveagh National Park Golden Eagle stole the show. Even broadcaster Gay Byrne was bowled over by the beauty of the Golden Eagle. With over 5,000 in attendance on the day, the event will surely boost visitor numbers to the County and ensure a successful tourism season!

Enjoy the dancing at the Donegal Live Event

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Norway Ambassador visits Wind Energy Centre, Killybegs On the 14th May, the Norwegian ambassador to Ireland HE Øyvind Nordsletten paid a visit to the newly opened Wind energy Centre at the Killybegs Campus LYIT. The ambassador in discussions with the County Manager, and LYIT stressed the importance of the marine sector for Norway and as an island nation the resources that Ireland has on its shores was equally important to its future prosperity and development. He further stated that Norway has some 50 years of oil deposits left and an abundant supply of natural gas.

Norway has some €400Bn of a pension reserve fund and will be investing in renewable sources of energy in the near future. He suggested that Norway could learn from Ireland on how it could develop its wind and ocean energies and as two maritime nations it would be open to working closely with us to develop this potential in From L-R Dr John Doran, Head of Department of Engineering & Wind Energy the near future. The County Manager went on to congratulate Mr Jim Centre, LYT, Mr Mícheál Ó’ hEannaigh, Director of Planning , Community and Parkinson, Sinbad Marine, Killybegs on his appointment as Honorary Enterprise, Donegal Co Co, HE Øyvind Nordsletten, Norwegian Ambassador to Consulate for Norway to Ireland. Ireland, Mr Seamus Nelley, Donegal Co Manager, Mr John Andy Bonar, Head of Development LYIT. Wind Energy Centre opens at LYIT’s Killybegs Campus The Minister in his opening address objectives. In December 2009, the Údarás na Gaeltachta and Donegal The 700m2 workshop space gives stressed the need to continue the Donegal CDB Board unanimously VEC – collectively known as the our students the opportunity to development of the Green Economy. supported the establishment Education and Training Consortium work on mid-sized turbines and He praised the work of all of the public of a Centre of Excellence for for Renewable Technology of blades; Learning skills to make the service bodies and congratulated Renewable Technology at the LYIT the CDB. Letterkenny Institute of future brighter for their families them on working in such a positive campus. The opening of the Wind Technology (LYIT) is the first college and our country. LYIT has recently and responsive manner to the Energy Centre at the Killybegs in Ireland to offer a Wind Energy been approved as a Vertical needs of industry, which was clearly Campus of LYIT is a first step in the Technician programme with BZEE Rescue College of Skylotec Gmbh evident from the attendance at realisation of this vision. This vision accreditation. and we will be announcing further the opening. The Green Economy is part of an integrated approach, accreditation and accolades from is one of the Donegal County comprising members from LYIT, The 27m training tower is the first industry in the near future. Development Board’s (CDB) priority Donegal County Council, FÁS, and only such facility in Ireland. Ag obair le chéile

LYIT, Donegal Co Co, Public Representatives, Fás, Udaras na Gealtachta, Private Industry delivering on the Green Economy for Donegal and Ireland.

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Donegal County Council Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal - community in touch Education & Learning / Oideachas agus Foghlaim 11

IT Sligo in emissions project in Medical Education partnership with CDAMC, Donegal A new research project at IT Sligo is developing a micromachining process Clinical Academy that could help car manufacturers to meet vehicle emission limits set out under European law. The €1.2 million project will focus on the development of an electro-chemical machining (ECM) process that can micro-machine electrically conductive materials to an accuracy of 1000th of a millimetre.

Its aim will be to improve the repeatability, accuracy and stability of ECM micro-machining, as well as increasing the lifespan of micro-machined parts. IT Sligo will be the lead partner in the project, which will also involve Irish companies CDAMC in Donegal and Vox Power in Dublin. Overseas partners include Brunel University in Britain, Vrije University Members of the North West Clinical Acadamy Trust Ltd in Brussels, German company Sonplas and Belgian-based SME Elsyca. The Medical School at the National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) has committed €2million towards the cost of building an undergraduate medical Dr Carl Diver of CDAMC, a research and development company education clinical academy on the grounds of Letterkenny General Hospital. based in Falcarragh, said the project would indirectly lead to reduced The academy will accommodate a growing number of full-time medical emissions. ‘‘An example of how this process will benefit the SMEs is in students from the University with 40 students planning to undertake their the manufacturing of fuel injection nozzles in diesel cars,” Diver said. medical studies at Letterkenny General Hospital in 2011. The €1.2 million project will be funded under the European Union’s FP7 The building will consist of a 450m2 state of the art building with small lecture programme, Research for the Benefit of SMEs. For further information contact: rooms, tutorial rooms, skills labs and academic office. In order to complete the [email protected] Clinical Education Centre, an auditorium and library will be required, which will help to ensure the future of the hospital and to develop a leading edge Clinical and Research Institute, which is critical for the retention of the best graduates in our hospital and to the development of healthcare for the people of Donegal. To this end, the North West Clinical Academy Trust Ltd., under the chairmanship of local businessman Henry McGarvey, has been formed as a registered charity, with the objective of raising the funds necessary to develop the auditorium and library. The trust is offering naming rights for the building to potential donors.

For further information contact [email protected] or visit www.nwicer.ie Visit from Lasell College, Boston Arising from the Institute’s participation in a trade mission to Boston/ Brian McDonald of Vox-power, Barbra Nolan head of the European Commission Chicago in September 2010, Letterkenny Institute of Technology Representation in Ireland, Dr. Carl Diver CDAMC, Dr. David Tormey and Mr Frank welcomed Dr Michael Alexander, President of Lasell College Boston, Carter, Sligo IT and his wife Mary Barbara on the 6th April. A number of meetings were arranged throughout the day with representatives from the college, and Useful Links also with management from Donegal County Council. There are definite County Donegal provides many opportunities for people to upskill through areas of collaboration that are being pursued by both institutions and it a range of educational institutions. For further information on some of the is hoped that further visits will be organised in the autumn to progress educational institutions available to the north west region, please visit the the relationship. Our visitors were invited to the launch of the Flight of following websites: the Earls publication on the Wednesday evening. » www.oideas-gael.com » www.lyit.ie Pictured at the Flight of » www.ulster.ac.uk the Earls book launch are » www.sligoit.ie Dr Michael Alexander (President of Lasell » www.nuigalway.ie College, Boston) and his » www.fas.ie wife Mary Barbara. » www.qub.ac.uk

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Donegal County Council Donegal - community in touch Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Social & Cultural / Sóisialta agus Cultúra 12 Amazing Grace and Arcanadh it’s connection to the Buncrana area

Arcanadh are six singers and musicians from the length and breadth of Ireland who have made their home in Donegal. Colm Breathnach, the current Donegal hurling captain from An Rinn Gaeltacht in Waterford is married to local woman, Sinead Gibson from Gortahork, Martin and Mags Gallen are brother and sister originally from Castleblayney, Co In the past six months representatives from Inishowen Tourism Monaghan and Fiona Walsh and Maria Corbet are from Bohola Co Mayo (community based non-profit organization), the local town council and Palmerstown, County Dublin, respectively. Arcanadh are well known and Failte Ireland in association with the John Newton Project UK have on the Irish music scene, regularly playing top Donegal venues such as formed a working group to develop and implement a spiritual tourism An Grianan Theatre, Ionad Cois Locha in Dunlewey, Glenveagh Castle product for Buncrana based around the “Amazing Grace” story. The and the Ballyshannon Folk festival. town’s link with the famous hymn is well-documented as John Newton, The band formed in Boston in 1997 and almost immediately shot to its composer, was inspired to pen the famous lyrics after his vessel found success, winning the best band at the Lorient International Folk Festival safety in the calm waters of Lough Swilly and he and the crew found in France that same year. They landed a record deal with Wren Records, refuge in the town of Buncrana following a near-death experience producing two highly acclaimed albums, the first of which won them the during a severe storm in 1748. title of Best Newcomers at the Irish Music Awards. Subsequently, Newton wrote “Amazing Grace” to chart his personal Arcanadh are currently putting the final touches to new songs in spiritual journey which began with his miraculous escape from death. preparation for recording their third studio album in Gaoth Dobhair this He went on to become a prolific hymn writer and, later in life, to mentor coming summer. The band is delighted to be undertaking this recording William Wilberforce in his fight against the Slave Trade. Wilberforce went with long-time collaborator and well-known sound engineer, Hughie on to abolish slavery. Boyle from Kincasslagh.

For further information contact [email protected] For further information on Arcanadh’s please visit www.arcanadh.com Poland, Semiotics and Buncrana Library Buncrana Library is to be included in a new book as ‘mother and child’. This design allows the extension to about the semiotics of libraries. Dr. Tomasz Kruszewski, coexist in harmony with the existing church. The building a scientist at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, has a partial first floor mezzanine. A traditional ‘Drontheim’ Poland, is writing about different symbols used and fishing boat hangs suspended from the ceiling. shown by libraries all over the world, describing the most interesting architecture from a semiotics point of view. He Dr Kruszewski became interested in the architecture will comment on the shape of the library building in of Buncrana Library having found information on the Buncrana and “show” it to his readers. librarybuildings.ie website. Buncrana Library was the winner of the Public Library Buildings Awards 2001 best Buncrana Library is located in a converted Presbyterian small library in the converted, extended or refurbished church. The architect Peter Cullinane designed the building category.

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Donegal County Council Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal - community in touch Social & Cultural / Sóisialta agus Cultúra 13 Donegal Astronomy Fort Dunree Website The website www.DonegalSkies.com was set up by Killygordon man Brendan Alexander. Brendan, a postgraduate student from Letterkenny IT with a passion for astronomy and astrophotography, hopes the website will serve as a resource for promoting astronomy in the region as well as giving those aboard a taste of what’s happening in Donegal’s night sky. With skies among the darkest anywhere in Europe, Donegal is a prime location for enjoying the wonders of the night sky. DonegalSkies. com has received almost 4,000 hits during its three months online. The website contains an “In The Skies” section in which readers are kept abreast of all the happenings in Donegal skies.

There is also a gallery section showcasing images, both astronomical and terrestrial, by the website’s founder, all from taken from Donegal soil. Fort Dunree is located about seven miles north of Buncrana in the . DonegalSkies.com also provides straightforward and easy-to-follow Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. The site is situated along the tutorials on how to get started in astronomy, as well as astrophotography. shores of Lough Swilly commanding a majestic view of the Lough and it’s shorelines.The Fort Dunree heritage museum complex was originally For further information visit www.donegalskies.com opened to the public in 1986, and has provided interest for the tourists of all ages ever since.

A visit to Fort Dunree will include a video film presentation in an audio - visual theatre, access to museum displays which fully demonstrate life at Fort Dunree, showing its vital role in coastal defense and neutrality protection; and a complete expose of coastal artillery.

The underground bunkers house a collection of artifacts giving meaning and insight into the operation of this excellent relic of military history.

Fort Dunree has undergone extensive refurbishment in recent years with the development of a network of walking paths, the restoration of former military buildings to create a wildlife exhibition, further military displays, a shop and a water front cafeteria. Fort Dunree now hosts art exhibitions, wildlife talks, yoga classes and even weddings. Glowing Moon: Full Moon breaking through the Donegal clouds during February 2009. For further information visit www.fortdunree.com 6th Guth Gafa Documentary Film Festival, 10th to 14th June 2011 will turn into a meeting point of film fans from all over the world once again. This year’s festival promises a rich and varied programme of international and Irish feature documentaries as well as a focus on North American environmental and climate-related films, presenting startling and surprising award-winning and Oscar-nominated documentaries from the last few years that deal with some of the most important issues of our time.

This years Irish programme promises to be as impressive as ever with The 6th Guth Gafa Film Festival will be as breathtaking and challenging highlights including Enda Hughes’s powerful feature ‘Men of Arlington’ as ever, with the very best award-winning international and Irish feature as well as Ristaird O Domhnall’s highly acclaimed and compelling documentaries. documentary ‘The Pipe’.

The little sea-side village Gortahork in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht For full details, please visit: www.guthgafa.com

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Donegal County Council Donegal - community in touch Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Social & Cultural / Sóisialta agus Cultúra 14 Murder, Arson How We Remember Celebrating the 28th Battalion of the Irish Defence Forces and their continuing contribution to peace both at and Plunder home and abroad.

History Ireland Hedge School experts

Donegal County Museum in conjunction with History Ireland Publications Donegal County Council Public Art Office was awarded a grant from hosted a History Ireland Hedge School on Saturday 16th April in the the EU PEACE III Programme for the project How We Remember. This Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny. The theme of the Hedge School Peace and Reconciliation project explored in a diverse but real and was the 1641 depositions and the panel of experts included Mícheál Ó meaningful way the very sensitive but critical question of ‘how we Siochcrú (TCD), Jane Ohlmeyer (TCD) and James Sharkey (Irish diplomat/ remember’ defence force personnel from Donegal who have served. former Ambassador). The project focuses specifically on the 28th Infantry Battalion of the Irish Defence Forces who served along the border during the recent The 1641 Depositions (Archives of Trinity College Dublin) are sworn troubles. The project consisted of a number of different elements witness statements mainly by Protestants, but also by some Catholics, including a wonderful exhibition at which from all social backgrounds, concerning their experiences of the 1641 looks at of the history of The Irish Defence Forces, especially the 28th Irish rebellion. Their testimonies document the loss of goods, military Infantry Battalion. There is also a wonderful Education Project in the activity, and the alleged crimes committed, including assault, stripping, museum and going out to schools to interpret all aspects of the project. imprisonment and murder. Propagandists, politicians and historians A special education pack was designed to mediate the exhibition and have all exploited the depositions at different times, and the controversy tours were designed especially for the primary school curriculum. There surrounding them has never been satisfactorily resolved. is also a new documentary about members of Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen Teoranta (ONET), and a significant new stained-glass / The History Ireland Hedge School series aims to make history come alive contemporary glass window at the Oratory at the Finner Camp base of for audiences by providing lively, unfretted debate on topics of interest 28th Infantry Battalion of the Irish Defence Forces which was presented to national and local communities. by Donegal County Council to the Irish Defence Forces in late April. Information on future Hedge Schools can be obtained at For further information see www.donegalpublicart.ie www.historyireland.ie Map Wall of Donegal The Map Wall of Donegal has been successfully relocated to an area on the N56 Road which has recently been planted with trees and is an attractive area for tourists to pause on their journey and reflect on the Wall. The Wall portrays a map detailing all the town-lands in Donegal on one side and a list of the town-lands on the other side and provides tourists with a good indication of the scale and size of the County. This was an ideal location for the Map Wall as the N56 is one of the main arteries connecting the North to the South of County.

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Donegal County Council Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal Donegal Community Links / - community in touch Nascanna Pobail Dhun na nGall 15 Flight of the Earls Book Launch volume, full colour throughout and lavishly illustrated with maps and images The dramatist, theatre director, author and will be a much sought after history book until the next commemoration and Donegal Person of the Year 2010, of the Flight of the Earls in 2107. Brian Friel, launched The Flight of the Earls/Imeacht na nIarlaí publication on The publication retails at £40 and is available from Guildhall Press: the 6th April 2011 in Letterkenny. Tel: +44 28 71364413; [email protected]; www.ghpress.com

Donegal County Council initiated and coordinated commemorative events to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Flight of the Earls during 2007 and Brian Friel speaking at the launch 2008 and along with the Letterkenny Institute of Technology and the University of Ulster, commissioned Dr Éamonn Ó Ciardha, David Finnegan and Marie-Claire Peters to edit the collective volume of works from the three major conferences that took place during these commemorations.

Guests consisted of representatives from historical associations from Donegal, Derry, Tyrone, Monaghan and Galway, along with visitors from the Lasell College in Boston, John Hume and his wife Pat, artists and contributors to the book and a large group of interested people.

The Flight of the Earls/Imeacht na nIarlaí is a beautifully presented, case-bound

John Hume pictured with his wife Pat at the launch Donegal County Council, Donegal Historical Society, Letterkenny Institute of Technology and University of Ulster Representatives pictured with Brian Friel at the launch A NEW WEBSITE FREE TO ALL IRISH PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD TO CONNECT BACK TO THEIR ROOTS Irish Gathering is a FREE and unique website initiative created by Gathering registered members to access their roots geographically as far Joe Whelan an Irish business man interested in promoting closer back as the 1850s. The site is free to both Irish at home and abroad. contact between Irish people globally. The Irish Gathering’s website at www.irishgathering.ie was launched quietly in March 2010 to enable So if you wish to build your own online Family Tree just log on to Irish families to connect across the internet by sourcing their Irish roots www.irishgathering.ie and building their Family tree. It is a full online Family history archive for people to record all of their family history through photos, documents, dates of birth / death etc and then share it securely across the internet with other family members.

The site interfaces with the 1901 and 1911 Irish census and contains a database of Irish townlands, baronies and parishes which have been mapped to the Ordinance Survey Maps (OSI) thereby allowing Irish

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Donegal County Council Donegal - community in touch Dún na nGall Donegal Community Links / - pobail i d’teagmháil Nascanna Pobail Dhun na nGall 16

The Inspirational Irish Women Awards, Donegal Association in Kerry Philadelphia, honours mother and daughter Carmel Crossan Boyce, and Karen Boyce McCollum Founded in Philadelphia in 2010, The Inspirational Irish Women Awards honours women from a variety of backgrounds who embody the intelligence, courage, grace strength and pride synonymous with the Irish spirit.

This year, we are proud to Donegal author John Cassidy (centre front) with members of the committee at recognize a mother and the website launch daughter whose roots are Last summer Sean Gallagher from Inver, with a few other Tir Conail natives firmly planted in County had a meeting with a view to setting up a Donegal association in Kerry. Donegal: Carmel Crossan Carmel and Karen pictured accepting their On Saturday 12th March they saw the fruit of their efforts when their Boyce, and Karen Boyce Inspirational Irish Women Awards website www.donegalassociationkerry.com was launched in Killarney by McCollum. Donegal author, John Cassidy.

Carmel Boyce: Irish Center Board Member, Nurse-Caregiver Sean Gallagher says, “We aim to bring people native to Donegal together Carmel Boyce, born in Trentagh outside Letterkenny, has spent most of her for social occasions and to help them to get to know each other. A life quietly and happily behind the scenes, unassumingly raising a family committee has been set up and they are continuing to amass names of six, running a home healthcare business, serving on the board of the and contact details for Donegal natives now resident in Kerry. The two Irish Center and the Donegal Association, and being a ceaseless presence counties have a lot in common and we plan to have many events and wherever she is needed in the Irish community. meetings in the coming year.”

There’s hardly an Irish event in the Philadelphia area where you don’t see Carmel and Barney Boyce, Milford, sometimes there to enjoy, but usually there to work. “I was always part of the Irish community here in Philadelphia,” says Carmel

Karen Boyce McCollum: Irish traditional performer, Associate Communications Director for Cephalon Karen Boyce McCollum, like her mother, has blazed her own trail in Philadelphia’s Irish community.

It started with music. Irish dancing, then singing. By the time she was 17, she was singing with the band Crossroads, by 19, Piper Down, and by 23 The Three Hughie McGees: Pictured at the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in with the band Causeway. She also sings with her brothers sometimes in the Philadelphia this year. Hughie McGee, Letterkenny (centre) is pictured with his groups Tradpole and Blackthorn. After winning the ladies over 18 singing cousins from Virginia. The family tree was established through DNA. competition in the Mid-Atlantic Fleadh Ceoil in 2005, she competed in the For further information on this e-zine or on the Donegal Diaspora All-Ireland Fleadh in Letterkenny that summer. Project, please contact:

Often on her days at home, McCollum can be found in the Irish community, Maria Ferguson bringing her kids with her to places like the Irish Immigration Center. Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Tel: +353 (0)74 97 24466 “I have such a passion for continuing things from my own childhood. I want to do my best to make the traditions continue. I want my kids to Roisin McBride grow up and know their heritage.” Email: [email protected] Tel: +353 (0) 74 9172562

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Donegal County Council