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European Union European Regional Development Fund Investing in your future WELCOME TO

Welcome to 4 :The Facts 6 Getting to know Donegal a little better... 8 Immigration to Ireland 12 The Irish Social Welfare System 17 Moving to Ireland 23 Emergency Services 25 Health Service 27 Education 31 Things you should know 34 Eating in Ireland 38 Directory Foreign Embassies / Consulates 40 Government Departments in Donegal 45 Local government offices in Donegal 47 Social Welfare Offices in Donegal 48 Hospitals in Donegal 49 Citizens Information Centres in Donegal 50 Garda Stations in Donegal 52 Health Centres in Donegal 56 Library Service 60 Addresses of Resource Groups / Useful Contacts 63 WELCOME TO

Acknowledgements

This booklet was originally produced by Donegal Local Development Company with equal funding provided by the Citizens Information Board. The purpose of the booklet was to equip newly arrived foreign nationals to with information on local public and voluntary services available and to give them a sense of the culture of the place in which they were coming to live and work.The booklet was published in a number of languages. The production of the original booklet was supported by a Steering Group who assisted the project managed by Karin White of Donegal Local Development Company with particular assistance from Sean Staunton of the Citizens information Board and Noirin Farren, of the Donegal Citizens information Service.

This second revised edition is funded by the PEACE III programme as managed for the Special EU Programmes body by . We would like to thank Francis Conaghan, Donegal County Council, Sean Staunton of the Citizens information Board and Karen white, Port na Failte, Donegal County Council. A special thank you goes to Bethel, volunteer at Port na Failte and Phil Tysall of Donegal county council for spending many hours on working on the revisions.

It is hoped that the booklet will benefit many foreign nationals coming to the County and indeed the agencies and organisations which work with them.

Caoimhin Mac Aoidh Chief Executive Donegal Local Development Company

DONEGAL LOCAL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Millennium Court, Pearse Road, , Co. Donegal Telephone: +353 74 91 27056 WELCOME TO

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Welcome to Donegal

Donegal (Irish: Dún na nGall) in the Province of , one of the four historic provinces in Ireland. The is and Letterkenny is the county’s largest town.The Irish name for Donegal translates into English as ‘Castle of the Strangers’.

Over the years Donegal has been well documented for its ability to improve a person’s quality of life and you have made the right choice in your selection of this region. This booklet is for people coming to live and work in Donegal. It details your rights and responsibilities as a new citizen whilst you live and work here.We have included some information on the services you may need and how you can access them. But first, a little information about your new home...

Donegal is part of the North West region which comprises of three counties- Donegal, and Leitrim which combined with counties , Tyrone, Fermanagh, Down, Antrim and Armagh make up the historic province of Ulster. After the in 1922 Ulster was separated with Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim becoming part of the new Irish Republic and the other six counties making up .

The Donegal coastline is the longest in the country. The climate is temperate with cool damp summers and mild wet winters. Donegal is viewed as being divided into a number of areas both on an economic and physical basis – the three main parts of the county are the Peninsula, Donegal Central & South and the area to the North West.

Donegal was occupied by people more than 9,000 years ago and is famous for its history and its archaeology. Christianity had a major influence in Donegal and many of the first Christian monuments can be seen today. The history of Donegal is dominated by two great families; the O’Donnells 4 and the O’Neills. For over 1,000 years the clans fought each other for control and finally the O’Donnells were victorious. The 17th century was perhaps the bloodiest in Ireland's history and as punishment for the failed rebellion of 1641, almost all lands owned by Irish Catholics were confiscated and given to British settlers.This was called the Plantation. History Potatoes were the main staple food of a poor yet rapidly growing population who were forced to live from the land, on often very poor ground. Potato blight led to crop failures. The Irish potato famine of 1846 led to the death and emigration of approximately two million Irish people.

The 1890s saw some improvement in the treatment of poor tenants, but the question of Home Rule continued to be raised and led to a rebellion in 1916, known as the ‘Easter Rising’. In 1918 Republicans set up their own parliament in and declared war on British troops in Ireland. In 1921 the ‘’ was declared; however, six predominantly Protestant and Unionist counties in Ulster were not included and a civil war ensued for a brief period. More recently, in Donegal’s neighbouring counties of Northern Ireland, civil demonstrations by Catholics in 1968 led to political unrest. In 1998 the Good Friday Agreement was endorsed in referenda in the North and South.This saw the introduction of a separate Northern Ireland Assembly, the peace process and increasing levels of co-operation by both governments. Activities Donegal provides an excellent backdrop for lots of sporting and leisure activities,that the county offers.Golfers need not go far to find a green, surfers a high wave and anglers can cast upon the many lakes and rivers, or simply trek along the vast landscape on horseback or on foot. Donegal has it all- sandy beaches, rugged mountains, blissful isolation and enough shops for some serious retail therapy. Some Places of Interest Doe Castle, Glenveagh National Park, Donegal Castle, Grianán of Aileach, Glengesh Pass Forest, Inishowen Peninsula, Aranmore Island and the Bluestack mountains. Donegal Castle in Donegal Town

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Ireland: The Facts

Area: 70,282 sq. km

Donegal: The Donegal mainland coastline is the longest in the country at 1,134km and constitutes over 17% of the total national coastline. Climate: The climate is temperate with cool damp summers and mild wet winters.

Population: 4.2 million (Census 2006) Capital City: Dublin (population: 1.2 million) County Donegal: population: 147,000

Languages: Irish (Gaelic) is the first official language, although English, the second official Language is almost universally used. Religions: Roman Catholic 88.4%, 2.9%, Presbyterian 0.5%, Methodist 0.25%; Muslim 0.48%, Jewish 0.1%; Other 5.5% (2006 Census)

Currency: Euro

Government: The 1937 Constitution makes provision for a President, elected by the population every 7 years; a Dáil (pronounced 'doyle') or lower house of Parliament, with 166 members (called TDs); and a Seanad (pronounced 'shannad') or upper house with 60 members. Parliamentary elections are held every five years. The present government was formed in June 2007. Local government is very important in Ireland. Apart from Dáil Éireann and the presidency, it is the only other institution whose members are directly elected by all of the people. Local government is responsible for a range of services. Due to the role local authorities play,the range of matters for which they are responsible and their closeness to local communities, local government has a more immediate effect on the day-to-day lives of the people than most other sectors of public administration.

6 Donegal County Council has responsibility for local administration and this operates alongside Town Councils in , , Letterkenny and . Both the Town Councils and the Donegal County Council have elections every five years usually along with elections to the National Parliament (Dáil Éireann) and sometimes alongside the European elections. For local elections, twenty-nine councillors are elected using the electoral system called ‘Proportional Representation’ and these councillors are elected in five main electoral areas in Inishowen, Stranolar. , Letterkenny and Donegal Town. The County Council main offices are at the County House in Lifford but they have outreach offices in , Milford, , Letterkenny and Donegal Town. For National Elections Donegal is divided into two constituencies called Donegal South West and Donegal North East with both having three representatives attending the National Parliament in Dublin and also for the European elections Donegal is part of the North West constituency with Leitrim and Sligo.

Donegal County Council, the Local Authority for County Donegal (exclusive of four Town Council areas), provides an extensive range of services in the county. These services range from planning control to the provision of social housing, the upkeep and improvement of roads, pollution control, fire services, sanitary services and cultural services such as museums and libraries.

For more information about Donegal County County Council see: www.donegalcoco.ie

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Getting to know Donegal a little better... The main towns in Donegal: Ballyshannon, , Buncrana, Bundoran, Donegal, Dungloe, , Letterkenny and Lifford.

Physical features: Rivers/Lakes/Bays: Inishowen Peninsula, Malin Head,,Lough Derg,Rossan Point,: Mountains: Bluestack Mts, Derryveigh Mts: Islands include the populated islands of and Tory.

Population: Donegal County 146,956 Persons (2006); Letterkenny is the main area of population with approximately 17,700 people in the town.

Transportation: Most are in both Irish (Gaelic) and English.In the the maximum is as follows, (the Northern Ireland speed limit is shown in miles). Road signs in the Gaeltacht areas (Irish speaking) are in Irish. • 50km/h/30mph in built up areas • 100km/h/60mph outside built up areas • 110km/h/70 mph on motorways Main Roads are N15 to Sligo town, N4 to Dublin and N13 to Derry. From Letterkenny, it takes approximately 30 minutes driving to Derry, 90 minutes to Sligo, two hours to Belfast, three hours to and four hours to Dublin.

Public holidays: There are nine public holidays in Ireland each year. Public holidays in Ireland (as in other countries) may commemorate a special day or other event, for example, St Patrick's Day (17 March) or Christmas Day (25 December). On a public holiday, sometimes called a bank holiday, most businesses and schools close. Other services, for example, public still operate but often with restricted schedules. The list of public holidays in Ireland each year is as follows: 8 New Year's Day (1 January), St. Patrick's Day (17 March), Easter Monday, First Monday in May, June, August Last Monday in October Christmas Day (25 December) St. Stephen's Day (26 December) Most employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays. One exception is part-time employees who have not worked for their employer at least 40 hours in total in the 5 weeks before the public holiday.

Airports: is based at Carrickfinn and there is the ‘City of Derry Airport’ in Derry, but you can also travel to Shannon, Knock, Belfast and Dublin airports by road within hours.

Industry: Donegal has a local economy based on a local business sector, which is strengthened by a range of leading-edge international investments.The county is home to two of the country’s largest fishing ports with over half the national landings being landed in Donegal. The strong indigenous sectors used to be engineering, joinery, services, craft and ICT. Donegal offers a good quality of life and a cost base more competitive to many of the established industrial and larger urban centres.

Everyday Customs As a newcomer to Donegal, or Ireland, you may find that some of the social customs here are maybe a little different to those you are used to in your home country. Irish people may be informal when talking to each other and call each other by their first names,even in formal relationships.When speaking with someone it is common, and seen as polite, to look them in the eye. If you avert your eyes away when talking to someone this may be considered that you are disinterested or bored.When waiting for a service, e.g. at the post office,bank,shop,bus etc,it is custom for you to join the back of the line of people who are already waiting. If you offer someone a cup of tea or coffee, you can expect the person to decline it.You then must offer at least twice more, insisting that ‘the kettle is on’already, and mostly, the person will accept. Should you be invited to a party in a pub or hotel, then don’t assume that everything is free. You will be expected to pay for your own drink and to buy other people drinks, too. You will be getting free sandwiches, or other snacks. So, should money be tight, you may reconsider the invitation.The same goes for weddings.You will be expected to give a wedding present or money in a card and buy your own drink and also buy drinks for others. This can be quite costly.The food, however, is free. 9 Staying in Donegal Finding accommodation in Donegal can be difficult. If you are looking for accommodation you have a few options. • You could rent from a private landlord. These types of rented accommodation include houses, apartments or flats. • You could share accommodation with someone you know or you can rent a room. • You may decide to buy your own home.

Whichever you choose, some of the key points you need to know are outlined below. You can look at the accommodation section in the local papers and you will find somewhere to suit your needs. Another way to find accommodation is through letting and estate agents. There are many estate agents in Donegal, which can help you find the right place. Other sources are the notice boards in supermarkets and in colleges.There are related websites on the internet with information on lettings. Or alternatively you could place your own advertisement in the local newspaper. So, once you find where you would like to live, at the right price, you should make an appointment with the landlord or the agent and go along and see if it is suitable.

Advertisements in newspapers include many abbreviations – here are some of common ones as they appear in the press:

CH: Central Heating.

FF: Fully Furnished. NRA: No Rent Allowance.

Professional (or prof.): Someone currently employed in a professional position.

NS: Non-Smoker

When you have found the right accommodation you must ask about the terms and conditions of the rental contract. You should ask about the duration of the rent, amount of rent payable, when it should be paid and to whom. Does the rental cost include bills such as electricity, service charges and/or bin charges?

The landlord may ask that you sign a lease. A lease is a written agreement, on that you both agree. Normally, landlords ask for a deposit as well as one month’s rent in advance. The deposit is usually refundable at the end of the 10 lease, providing everything is in good working order.

Make sure you get a receipt.

There are a number of agencies that can assist you with regard to your rights as a tenant or if you have any difficulties with your landlord.

Threshold – www.threshold.ie, 01-6786096. Private Residential Tenancies Board Telephone: 01-6350600

Email: [email protected] Social housing

For tenants rights in Ireland please contact your local Citizens Information Department.

Buying a home in Ireland can be expensive.What happens if you cannot buy your home? Local authorities in Ireland are the main provider of housing for people who need housing but cannot afford to buy their own homes. There is also a voluntary housing sector, which provides housing for low- income families and for vulnerable people such as the elderly or people with special needs. The social housing stock comprises about 10% of the total housing stock in Ireland. The local authorities also administer a State funded rental accommodation scheme to assist rent payments by eligible tenants in housing contracted from private landlords.

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Immigration to Ireland Ireland’s experience of immigration is relatively new. Unlike many other EU countries,it has no colonial past or a tradition of integrating people from its colonies. However, Ireland has a history of two centuries of emigration experience to draw from. It can learn from the successes and failures of its emigrants on how best to assist the integration of foreign immigration into Irish society. This Welcome Booklet is designed to introduce the county of Donegal to you.

People come to Ireland from other countries for a variety of reasons, for example, as tourists, to study, to retire, to work, for love or as short-term visitors. In some cases some people may be looking for protection or a better quality of life.If you are moving to Ireland you should find out more information about living here including advice on housing, residency, health services and employment.

There is a range of support services for foreign nationals in Ireland and this section is merely a quick overview of some of the services available. The details contained in the following section are for information purposes only and should not be treated as legal advice. Remember always seek advice from reputable advisors.

If you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you will need a valid Irish transit visa when landing in the State:

Afghanistan, Albania, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Lebanon, Moldova, Montenegro, Nigeria, Serbia, Somalia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe.

If You Have Been Granted a Visa? If you have been granted a visa, a ‘visa sticker’ will be placed in your passport.This should be read and understood.

12 The dates shown on this visa indicate the timeframe in which you may stay in Ireland – for example, if the dates shown are: From: 01 Jan 2008 – Until: 31 Mar 2008, this means the first date on which you may seek to enter Ireland is January 1st 2008 and the last day on which you may seek entry is March 31st 2008.

These dates have no bearing on the duration of time you will be permitted to remain in the country. This will be determined by the Immigration Officer on your arrival at a port of entry.

If the ‘Type of Visa’ is ‘C’,this means the MAXIMUM duration that you will be permitted to remain in the State, is 90 DAYS.

ONCE THIS TIME HAS EXPIRED YOU MUST LEAVE THE STATE – YOUR PERMISSION TO REMAIN CANNOT BE EXTENDED

The ‘Number of Entries’ stated on your visa shows the number of times you may seek to enter the State within the dates shown.

Under ‘Duration of Stay’ the maximum number of days for which you will be permitted to remain in the State, may be specified.It will not be possible for you to remain in the State beyond this time.

If your visa states ‘Bearer Only’, this means that any dependents included on your passport will not be permitted to travel with you. If you wish such dependents to be included on your visa, this must be clearly outlined on your application form.

If the ‘Type of Visa’is ‘D’,and you wish to remain in Ireland for more than 3 months,you will need to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

For more information contact The Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service: www.inis.gov.ie

A list of advice agencies will be found in the Appendix.

Employment The rules governing who can work freely in Ireland and who needs permission (a permit, visa or authorisation) are complicated. However, in this Welcome Booklet we have tried to give a general overview of the current situation but cannot cover all cases and you should seek expert advice should you wish to find employment in Ireland.

Individuals who hold an EU or European Economic Area

13 (EEA) passport are entitled to work in Ireland and any other member state. Work permits are not required if you fall into this category. Ireland will continue to restrict access to the Irish labour market for nationals of Bulgaria and Romania.

A few things of note: Bulgarians and Romanians will be required to have a valid work permit to take up employment within Ireland, and will continue to be subject to a labor market needs test.

However, nationals of Bulgaria and Romania already working in Ireland on a valid work permit for an uninterrupted period of 12 months or longer prior to 31 December 2006 will not require a work permit.

Employers must satisfy a labour markets needs requirement first from within the European Economic Area (EEA), and if this is not possible, then give preference to nationals from Bulgaria and Romania ahead of non-EEA nationals.

Spouses and dependents of Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who have been working in Ireland for a continuous period of more than 12 months will not require a work permit if they have been legally resident within Ireland. However, if the spouse or dependent arrives in Ireland after 01 January 2007 then they will require a work permit. They must have a job offer to get the permit, but are not required to have a labor market needs test.

If your home country is outside the EU, you should register with your local immigration registration officer following your arrival in Ireland. Registering with immigration officials means appearing in person at the Garda District Headquarters. When you present yourself before the registration officer you must provide certain information and evidence about your status.

Following registration at the Garda office, you will be issued with an ‘Immigration Certificate of Registration’. The Registration certificate is the size of a ID or credit card and will include your name, address, photograph and your residence details. Registration Certificates are not identity cards. They are, however, evidence that a person is legally resident in Ireland and you must show evidence of this, if requested by the Gardaí.

Contact your local Garda Station for more information.

Taxation Taxation in Ireland is calculated on a system of tax credits. Income tax is deducted directly from your wages by your

14 employer. This tax is paid by your employer directly to the Irish Revenue Commissioners. In Ireland the higher your income, the higher the rate of tax you pay. The tax rates for an individual in 2011 are 20% and 41%.An individual is liable for tax on his income as an employee and on income as a self-employed person. Tax credits consist of various allowances that you may be able to claim, depending on your circumstances. Every individual has their own personal tax credit and allowances on certain items can be claimed. Details of all the main allowances are given on the explanatory leaflet issued to you each year from the Revenue Commissioners.

You can be taxed in both the country where you come from and also in the country in which you are resident.Ireland has agreed a number of double taxation agreements with other countries in order to avoid double taxation. Double taxation agreements have been concluded with:

Double Taxation Agreements Australia, , Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Israel, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Slovak Republic, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, USA, and Zambia.

You may want to talk to the Revenue Commission about this if you are not sure of double taxation.

Contact your local tax office or Lo-Call: 1890 777425, e.mail: donegalPAYE @revenue.ie

Protection for migrant workers Everyone at work in Ireland enjoys some basic rights such as the minimum wage and a right to paid holidays. Foreign Nationals who are legally working in Ireland have exactly the same rights under employment legislation as the Irish people working here. Everyone at work, including all agency workers, enjoy these rights from their first day of work:

• the National Minimum Wage • working time rights (including breaks, holidays and holiday pay and a limit on the working week); • health and safety protection; • the right to join a trade union; and protection from unfair discrimination.

Employers are not allowed to deduct expenses associated with recruitment from the employee's pay and are not allowed retain any of the worker’s personal documents.

15 Wages: wage slips must be given by the employer with your wages. This is a written statement of your gross wages and details of all deductions made. The statement also includes details of pay and any deductions, which it is proposed to make from that pay – for example, for accommodation. The national minimum wage legislation allows for certain deductions to be made from the statutory minimum pay of an employee if the employee is provided with board and/or lodgings.

Sick Leave and Sick Pay: In general an employee has no right under employment law in Ireland to be paid while on sick leave. Consequently, it is at the discretion of the employer to decide their own policy on sick pay and sick leave, subject to the employee’s contract or terms of employment. If you are in any doubt about this talk to a trade union representative or go to the Citizens’Information at the Public Services Centre.

Services providing information include: www.citizensinformation.ie

The Free Legal Aid Centres (FLAC), email: [email protected]

The Immigrant Council of Ireland, www.immigrantcouncil.ie

Irish Refugee Council, www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie

The Integration Centre, www.integrationcentre.ie

Migrant Rights Centre (MRCI), www.mrci.ie

Port na Fáilte, Letterkenny, 0749126550; [email protected]

The Reception&IntegrationAgency, www.ria.gov.ie

Training for industry: FÁS (Employment Services Offices) is a Government Agency and they provide career advice and guidance including information on job and training opportunities as well as temporary employment options. There are offices located all over the county.

What happens if you find yourself unemployed, disabled or as a single parent? You may be entitled to state support.The rules governing social welfare payments are set out in legislation and/or administrative guidelines. Most of the detailed guidelines governing payments are available on the Department of Social and Family Affairs website. www.welfare.ie

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The Irish Social Welfare System In Ireland,you must satisfy a habitual residency condition for access to social assistance payments.

There are five factors: • Length and continuity of residence in Ireland or other parts of the Common Travel Area • Length and purpose of any absence from Ireland or the Common Travel Area • Nature and pattern of employment • Your main centre of interest • Your future intentions to live in Ireland as it appears from the evidence

The social welfare system in Ireland is divided into three main types of payments.These are: • Social insurance payments: (for example, the Jobseekers Benefit) • Means-tested payments: (for example, the Jobseekers Allowance) • Universal payments: (for example Child Benefit)

For complete advice and information assistance contact the Citizens Information Services at a local office near you or online at www.citizensinformation.ie. A short guide to the Irish Social Welfare service is available in various languages. This free publication, outlines the kinds of payments and entitlements available within the Irish Social Welfare system. It is available as a downloadable pdf document from www.welfare.ie

In Ireland the PPS Number (Personal Public Service Number) is a personal reference number that allows you to gain access to social welfare benefits and public services in Ireland. Without a PPS number you will not be able to get a job or any state benefits.It is used for taxation purposes, too.

17 You also need a PPS number to get an Irish driving license.

PPS Number You must be already living it in Ireland in order to get your PPS number and may not apply for in advance. The nearest Social Welfare office will assist you with the registration process. You will be asked to produce evidence of identity and residence in Ireland. You will need to produce the following documents when getting a PPS number: a) Your passport or national identity card Or Your Immigration Card b) Evidence of your Irish address, such as a household bill (ESB, telephone, gas, etc.) in your name.You must prove that you are in the process of looking for a job, or already in work in Ireland.

Do not pay anyone to apply for a PPS number for you - it is a simple process, which is free to everyone.

For more information you can phone the Department of Social and Family Affairs on (01) 691 3800 or call into the Social Welfare Services Office, High Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.Telephone 074-9160460.

Seeking employment in Ireland If you are an EU/EEA national, you can stay in Ireland if you are unemployed and looking for work.You can transfer your unemployment benefit from your country of origin and it will be paid to you in Ireland for up to 3 months (can be up to 6 months in some cases).

Public Service Centres The introduction of the Public Service Centre has provided a network of public services throughout Donegal. These centres allow public access to a range of services and agencies.

At the Donegal Citizens Information Service offices, supported by the Citizens Information Board, you will receive up to date and accurate information provided confidentially and independently.These centres offer a wide range of information on services such as social welfare, housing, education, employment rights, health, insurance/finance and taxation.

Donegal Citizens Information Service Information Centres are located throughout the county, one in each of the Public Service Centres and Buncrana and Ballyshannon. The service also provides outreach clinics in Buncrana, , and Killybegs.

18 Citizens Information Phone Service (Lo-Call Number) 1890-777 121 (This line is staffed 09.00hrs 21.00hrs Mon-Fri.) Citizens Information On-line:www.citizensinformation.ie. e.mail: [email protected]

Donegal: Drumlonagher,Tel: 074 9724400 Letterkenny: Blaney Road,Tel: 074 9194200 Carndonagh: Malin Road,Tel: 074 9373700 Milford: Main Street,Tel: 074 9153900 Ballyshannon: Library Building,Tel: 071 9858270 Buncrana: 12 Lower Main Street,Tel: 074 936 3496 Dungloe: Road,Tel: 074 956 1360

Letterkenny Centre for the Unemployed. This is one of 25 Centres throughout Ireland which are supported by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

The main activities of the Centre are to provide information and clerical support for unemployed people such as C.V preparation, typing, photocopying and general advice. Other Activities include providing information and campaigns on the issues, problems and social benefits affecting the unemployed

Celtic Apartments,8/9 Pearse Road,Letterkenny,Co.Donegal 074 9128010 or email [email protected]

Youth Information Centres Youth Information Centres provide free, confidential information for young people and for people who work with young people. They hold information on subjects like education, employment, careers, rights and entitlements, sport, leisure, travel and European opportunities for young people. Some centres can provide you with Internet access, a low cost CV preparation service,European Youth Cards and Hostelling cards. Also the Centre has a Eurodesk Information Point providing European Opportunities for Young People and those who work with them.

Donegal Youth Information Centre Upper Main Street, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal Tel. (074) 972 30 29 Email: [email protected]

Letterkenny Youth Information Centre 16-18 Port Road,Letterkenny Co.Donegal Tel.(074) 912 96 30 Email: [email protected] Website: www.donegalyouthservice.ie/yic

19 Finance, Banking and Money Transfers To open a bank account, you must be aged at least 18 and provide two forms of identification (including one with a photograph, such as a passport) plus proof of residence in Ireland (e.g. a recent utility bill). Credit rating is calculated differently in Ireland from other countries and you should supply as much information as possible about your financial status in your present country of residence. Many banks facilitate international payments by providing bank drafts and in some cases immediate electronic money transfer via Western Union and MoneyGram.

What about the Irish Credit Union Network? A credit union is a group of people who save together and lend to each other money at a fair and reasonable rate of interest. Credit unions offer members the chance to have control over their own money by making their savings work for them. Regular savings form a common pool of money, which in turn provides many benefits for members. There are over three million members of Credit Unions in Ireland. The Credit Union exists to support members not make profits.

There are many people in Ireland experiencing problems with money. Money difficulties can affect everyone from high-income earners to people on low income. Money difficulties can affect people’s health and overall well-being. Help is available.The Money Advice and Budgeting Service is a national, free and confidential support service to help people overcome money problems. You can also ring the MABS Helpline: 1890 283 438 (9am - 8pm, Monday – Friday) or email: [email protected]

MABS MABS, Money Advice and Budgeting Service, Letterkenny, Tel: 074 9129909

There are MABS offices in Buncrana, and Donegal Town.

Public Libraries There are eight public libraries in Donegal. Most offer internet facilities and book loans. (See page 60)

20 Faith Communities Given the fact that over 82% of the population in Donegal profess to the Roman Catholic faith there are many Catholic churches throughout the county.

Here are some of the churches in the main population areas.

The Roman Ballyshannon St Patrick’s Ballyshannon St Joseph’s Buncrana St. Mary’s Oratory Bundoran Immaculate Conception Carndonagh Church of the Sacred Heart Donegal Town St Patrick’s Dungloe St Crona’s Killybegs St Mary’s Letterkenny Cathedral of Sts Eunan & Mary Immaculate

Presbyterian Churches The Manse,Townparks, Convoy, Tel: (074) 9127021 / (074) 9147090 Knowhead Derryvane Muff: (074) 9384989 Greenbank: (074) 9382076 : (074) 9136226 Ballyshannon: (074) 9721113 Donegal Town: (074) 9721113 Donoughmore: (074) 9146187 : (074) 9136226 Stranorlar: (074) 9146187

Christian Fellowship 88 Lower Main St Letterkenny: (074) 9122563 20 Whitethorn Cl Letterkenny: (074) 9124027

Baptist Church 73 Port Road Letterkenny (074) 9122789

Bethel Christian Fellowship Letterkenny (074) 9129832

Jehovah’s Witness Letterkenny (074) 9145349

Methodist Church Moville (074) 9382061 & Ardara (Rev. Colin Weir): (074) 9737052 Donegal & (Rev. Ian Henderson): (074) 9723588

21 Reformed Presbyterian Church Stranorlar Main Street Stranorlar: (074) 9132436 Ballyboe Convoy: (074) 9132436

Congregational Churches Raphoe: (074)9145276

The Church of Ireland Conwal (Letterkenny) Tel (074) 9122573 Gweedore () Tel (074) 9736013 Donegal Town, Killymard Tel (074) 9721075 Kilbarron, Ballyshannon Lower, Buncrana.Tel (074) 9531043 Raphoe St Eunan’s Cathedral.Tel (074) 9145226 Stranorlar Meenglass

Theatres/Cinemas Letterkenny ..An Grianan, Ballybofey..Balor Theatre, Buncrana..St Mary’s Hall, Lifford...Cinema Complex, Ballyshannon...Abbey Arts Centre, Bundoran..Century Cinemas Complex

Museums and Galleries Dunree Military Museum Folk Village and Museum Greencastle Maritime Museum Lakeside Centre Cristeph Gallery, Letterkenny Glebe House and Gallery, Letterkenny Ardara Heritage Centre Donegal Castle Newmills Corn and Flax Mills Cavanacor Gallery, Ballindrait The Gallery, Dunfanaghy Letterkenny Central Library Letterkenny Cultural Centre

Foreign embassies/consulates Embassy and Consulate services include advice and practical help with travel documentation. If you lose your passport or travel documentation when you are in Ireland, you will need to contact your country’s embassy or consulate. They can issue you with temporary travel documents. Your embassy or consulate can also be of assistance to you in the case of a medical emergency. They can advise relatives or friends about accidents or illnesses, act as a liaison with hospitals and doctors and arrange for interpretative services, if necessary. If you are the victim of a crime while in Ireland, your embassy or consulate can liaise with local police and let your friends and family know of your situation. Likewise, if you have been arrested or imprisoned, your embassy or consulate can put you in contact with suitable legal representation, ensuring that your rights are respected and advise you of your entitlements.

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Moving to Ireland According to the 2006 Census 11.24% of the population in Ireland are not Irish (457,000 out of a population of 4.06 million). This indicates a rise in the number of people from other countries who are making Ireland their new home. Immigrants are people who move from another country to another to live or work. The term is very broad and includes Irish nationals returning home, EU nationals, other nationals moving to live or work in Ireland, people seeking asylum, refugees, etc. The term ‘new citizen’ is often used when referring to immigrants.

For further information on supports for foreign nationals in Ireland contact the following:

Immigrant Council of Ireland 2 St Andrew Street Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 674 0200 Fax: +353 (0)1 645 8031 www.immigrantcouncil.ie Email: [email protected]

Migrants Rights Centre Ireland 55 Parnell Square West Dublin Tel: + 1 889 7570 Fax: +353 1 889 7579 www.mrci.ie Email:[email protected]

Refugee Information Service 27 Annamoe Terrace off North Circular Road Dublin 7 Tel: +353 (0)1 838 2740 Fax: +353 (0)1 838 2482 www.ris.ie Email: [email protected]

Racial and Intercultural Office Garda Siochana Community Relations Section Harcourt Square Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 6663150 www.garda.ie/racial.html

Reception and Integration Agency Ardilaun Centre 112-114 St. Stephen’s Green Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 4183200 Locall: 1890 777 727 Fax: +353 (0)1 4183271 www.ria.gov.ie Email [email protected] 23 So how can you make Ireland your new home? If you are a national of the (EU), of one of the other EEA member states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) or of Switzerland, you and your family members have the right to stay in Ireland. There are, however, some limits to this right. You can stay in Ireland for up to 3 months without restriction. If you plan to stay more than 3 months, you must either:

• Be engaged in economic activity (employed or self employed) or; • Have sufficient resources and sickness insurance to ensure that you do not become a burden on the social services of Ireland or; • Be enrolled as a student or vocational trainee or ; • Be a family member of a European Union citizen in one of the previous categories.

Residence rights for your family If you are a national of an EU member state, or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, your family, whatever their nationality, also have the right to live with you in Ireland. Your "family" is defined as your spouse, children under 21 and other children who are dependent on you and their spouses,your parents and your spouse's parents,if they are also dependent on you.

Scheme of voluntary assisted returns If you are an asylum seeker or a migrant from an non-EEA country who wishes to return voluntarily to your country of origin but do not have the means to do so, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) may be able to assist you to return home. The IOM is an independent international organisation working in the field of migration and has helped thousands of migrants return to their country of origin. For further information you can contact: International Organisation for Migration 7 Hill Street Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 878 7900 Fax: +353 (0)1 878 7901 www.iomdublin.org : Email: [email protected]

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Emergency Services

Police An Garda Síochána is Ireland’s national police service. As the national police service it exercises all police functions in the country. It provides the state security services and all criminal and traffic law enforcement functions. Go to page 52 for a list of Garda Stations. Main Emergency Services in Ireland

• Police (Gardai) Dial 112 or 999 and ask the operator to put you through to the Gardai (Republic of Ireland)

• EMS and Ambulance Dial 112 or 999 and ask the operator to put you through to the ambulance service.

• Fire and Rescue Dial 112 or 999 and ask the operator to put you through to the fire service.

• Marine and Coastal Emergencies Dial 112 or 999 and ask the operator to put you through to the Coast Guard. The Garda Costa will coordinate the response by cliff rescue teams, inshore rescue units, lifeboats and SAR helicopters if necessary.

• Mountain Rescue Dial 112 or 999 and ask the operator to put you through to the mountain rescue service.

Other Emergency and Helpline Phone

Rape Crisis Centre 13 St Eunan’s Close, Letterkenny. FREEPHONE: 1800 44 88 44 or Tel: 074 9128211 from 11am – 3pm every Wednesday. E.mail: [email protected]

25 Samaritans 3,The Mall, Sligo Tel: (071) 91 42011 or use the 24 hr helpline 1850 609 090. Email: [email protected]

Donegal Domestic Violence Service PO Box 55, Letterkenny, General office enquiries: Tel: 074 9129725: 24 hour Helpline: 1 800 262677. E.mail [email protected]

FLAC, Free Legal Advice Centres Head Office: 49 South William Street, Dublin 4, Tel: 01-6794239, E-mail: [email protected].

Donegal: c/o Letterkenny Citizens Information Centre 10 Celtic Apartments, Pearse Road, Letterkenny, Tel: (074) 9127177 (Appointments necessary at all times)

Legal Aid Legal Aid Centre, full-time, Monday – Friday, 10am – 12.30pm, and 2pm – 4pm.Houston House, Main Street, Letterkenny,Tel: 074 9126177 Fax: 26086. Part-time.

IOM, International Organisation for Migration Help and Advice for non-EEA Parents with children born in Ireland who wish to return to country of origin. Also offers assistance with re-integration. Address: 7 Hill St. Dublin 1, Tel: 01 8787900. www.iomdublin.org. e.mail [email protected]

St Vincent De Paul Meetinghouse Street, Raphoe. Tel: 074 9173933. e.mail: [email protected]

Alcohol/Substance Abuse • Al-Anon,AlAteen,018732699 • Al-anonFamilyGroup 01-8732699 • AlcoholicsAnonymous,01-8420700, e.mail: [email protected] • Alcohol and Substance Counselling & Advisory Service (HSE) Tel: 074 9128769 • Drug Advisory and Treatment Centre, Dublin Tel: 01 6488600. e.mail: [email protected]

AWARE 24hrs 1890 303 302 Health Service Executive (HSE) (North Western Area) Information Line: 1850 636 313

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Health Service If you are ill, or worried about your health or the health of anyone in your family, you should go to see your local doctor, called a General Practitioner (GP). The GP's clinic is called a Surgery or a Health Centre.You should register with a GP as soon as possible so that you can get medical care if you need it.To register you will need to give your name, date of birth, address and telephone number if you have one. Appointments with the doctor will be for five or ten minutes. You need to make a separate appointment for each member of the family who wishes to see the doctor.Please make sure that you arrive on time for your appointment and if you are unable to attend your appointment, please make sure you cancel it.

What if I do not speak English? If you need an interpreter you must tell the receptionist when you make the appointment. Tell the staff which language you speak and they will book an interpreter for you or get an interpreter on the phone. It is important that you and the doctor understand each other so that he/she can make an accurate diagnosis of your problem.

Who else can help me? Medicines If your doctor wants you to take medicines he/she will write you a prescription. Take the prescription to a pharmacy or chemist shop. The pharmacist can give advice on the treatment of minor health problems. Some medicines can be bought from the pharmacist without a prescription, including some pain killers and cough medicines.

Dental Care If you have a problem with your teeth you should see a dentist; to receive dental treatment you need to register with a dentist.

Eyesight If you need your eyes testing or need new glasses 27 (spectacles) make an appointment to see an optician. They have shops in most large centres.

What to do in a medical emergency In an emergency, if you or someone with you becomes seriously ill and cannot wait until the GP surgery is open,you can telephone 999 or 112 (free of charge) for an ambulance, or go to the Accident and Emergency Department of your local hospital. However, this service is only for emergencies. Do not use the Accident and Emergency Department for minor medical problems. The hospital Accident and Emergency department is for people with urgent conditions only – think before you go. For any other illnesses, which can’t wait until the doctor’s surgery opens again, phone NoWDOC on 1850 400 911.

Medical Cards In Ireland some people are entitled to a medical card. If you are a European Union (EU)/EEA/Swiss national or if you are normally resident in Ireland, you are entitled to receive the same level of health care as Irish citizens.Depending on your income, you may be eligible for a medical card, which entitles you to the full range of medical services at no cost. This entitles holders to free hospital care, GP visits, dental services, optical services, aural services, prescription drugs and medical appliances- is available to those receiving welfare payments, low earners, all persons aged 70 or over, those with certain long-term or severe illnesses and in certain other cases. You may also be entitled to a ‘doctors only card’.This entitles you to free doctor’s services, but not to free medicines etc.

Non-Medical Card holders If you do not have a medical card, you are entitled to free public hospital services but you may have to pay in-patient and out-patient hospital charges. You are also entitled to subsidised prescribed drugs and medicines and maternity and infant care services and you may be entitled to free or subsidised community care and personal social services. • You are not entitled to free GP services. • You may be entitled to some community care and personal social services.

Medicines Depending on the type of medication you need, you can try to do the following;

• Corner Stores, Newsagents and Petrol Stations Any shop that sells daily necessities will more than likely stock a few standard medications against headaches, sore throats, coughs and congestion. 28 • Supermarkets Apart from having a comprehensive selection of non- prescription medicines,supermarkets are the place to go for cheap generic aspirin and paracetamol.

• Pharmacies and Dispensing Chemists Quite often announcing their presence by a green cross, only these carry prescription medicines. However, the pharmacist may be able to give you advice and suggestions for treatments for minor conditions.

• Alternative medicines There are many outlets in the county offering homeopathy medicines alternatives and herbal remedies.

• Health Food Stores Food for Thought Lower Main St, Buncrana, Tel (074) 9363550 The Natural Way Letterkenny, tel (074) 9125738 Good Earth Main Street Glenties, tel (074) 9551794 The Farm Shop, 2 Bath Terrace, Moville, Co Donegal, tel (074) 9381540 Natural Way, Unit 13 Letterkenny Shopping Centre, Letterkenny, Co Donegal, tel 074 91 27236

Doctors General Practitioners: General Practitioner (GP) is the official term for the doctor in Ireland who provides services to people in his/her surgery or in the patient's home. Most people simply refer to GPs as their doctor or family doctor. GPs provide services to medical card holders and ‘doctors only’ card holders free of charge. Please identify the nearest doctor (GP, general practitioner) where you live and apply for registration.This saves time and confusion if you become ill or need a doctor at any time during your stay in Ireland.You will more than likely be asked to pay for the consultation.

Hospital Services Everyone is entitled to free public hospital services subject to small daily in-patient charges. Many people take out private health insurance to enable them to choose private care in public hospitals or private hospitals.

Charges for Hospital Services Everyone living in the country and certain visitors to Ireland are entitled to care and treatment in public beds at public and voluntary hospitals. Some people may have to pay for

29 some hospital services. Holders of medical cards and certain other groups do not have to pay.

There are daily in-patient charges,an out-patient charge and some long-term stay charges. If you go to the out-patients, accident and emergency or casualty department of a public hospital without being referred there by your family doctor (GP), you will charged for this consultancy (unless you have a medical card) There is no charge if you are referred by a GP.

Alternative Medicines There are a large number of practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Ireland. Almost every large shopping mall has a TCM outlet these days, offering on-the- spot treatments (massage or acupuncture), long-term therapy and herbal medicines. Physiotherapists and chiropractors are also widely available. Other alternative medicines include the whole range from the homeopathic school to new age therapies.

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Education Education in Ireland is compulsory and all children aged between 5-16 years must attend.This includes children from Central and Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. There are many different types of schools in Ireland. Most of these are faith community schools where boys and girls are taught together, but there are also single gender schools. As parents/guardians you can approach school directly and ask for a place.You need to provide proof of date of birth such as a Birth Certificate or Passport. Catholic schools will also require a Baptismal Certificate. Each school will have its own policies on uniform, homework and behaviour. These are usually given to the child and the parent at the initial meeting in the form of a school prospectus.

The Irish school year for primary school children stretches from 1 September to 30 June approximately.The school day starts at about 9.20am and ends at 3pm.

Pre-school Education Most children go to Nursery at the age of three and then on to primary school at four or five years old. This enables the child to be ready for statutory schooling. The government also introduced a ‘free pre-school year’ for all, depending on your child’s age. You can find out more information about early years provision in Donegal by contacting your local Citizens Information Centre or www.education.ie.

The statutory age for primary school entry is six years, although most children start at four or five years. Each school operates an admissions policy, which they must make available on request.This first level education covers a period of eight years.

Primary Schools You will be assisted with registering your child at school and given information and advice on education and school issues, such as school uniform, transport, religious beliefs and the curriculum. 31 SECOND LEVEL SCHOOLS

1. Secondary Schools The term Secondary schools refers to the majority of second level schools in Ireland, most of which are privately owned and managed. Typically run by boards of governors, by religious bodies, or by individuals.In the majority of cases these establishments do not charge tuition fees to students. There are some private fee paying and boarding colleges available in Ireland. However, there may be grants available for those.

2. Community/Comprehensive Schools These schools are comprehensive in nature, combining academic and technical education as well as having a community dimension in terms of adult education and facilities.

3. Vocational Schools These schools are totally State owned and funded and they are administered by local Education Committees. Their tradition is based on technical and vocational education but they have expanded in recent years to incorporate a very wide subject mix.

Second level education in Ireland generally starts at age twelve and lasts for five or six years. There is a common programme followed by all students for three years leading to the Junior Certificate examinations which can be taken at three different ability levels. This is followed by a transition year during which students follow a more flexible programme.The student may choose to opt out of the Transition Year and go directly into year 5. the senior cycle starts with year 5 and is of two years duration ending with the Leaving Certificate examinations. These also can be taken at three different ability levels. Points will be awarded according to level taken and marks achieved. Various universities and training organizations ask for different numbers of points in order to gain entry.

Higher Level Education The Institute of Technology located in Letterkenny has a student population of over 2,000. This Institute provides a broad range of courses in schools of Business, Engineering, Science, Nursing, Social Care, Computing and Design. Courses are also available at the Institute of Technology in Sligo and the North West Regional College in Derry Degree Courses are also available at various higher level institutions in Dublin, such as University College Dublin, 32 Trinity College, at University College Cork, University College Galway as well as the University of Ulster in Derry, Belfast, and Jordanstown, and at the Queen’s University Belfast.

Difficulties at School For various reasons children from the black and minority ethnic population may experience difficulties at school. Most schools are aware of and sensitive to the difficulties and problems which children face when they arrive in a new country and will do their best to make sure your child feels welcome and included. If you are concerned about your child's behaviour or progress or you feel your child needs extra support, you should contact your child's head teacher.

Attendance Your child must go to school regularly in order to learn, achieve and make friends. It is your responsibility to make sure that your child goes to school regularly and on time. If your child regularly misses school without good reason, then you could be prosecuted and fined. It is important, therefore, that you contact the school if you are having difficulties with your child’s attendance.

Special Educational Needs Schools have a responsibility to identify and assess special educational needs and provide for them. Help could include a special programme of work or extra support from an adult. The school’s head teacher will give you information on the policy and arrangements for meeting your child’s needs.

School Meals and Clothing Many schools in Donegal try to provide school meals. Each school has its own procedure for collecting the money, for example, daily or weekly. Children may take a packed lunch, and this is normal for many children in Ireland. Schools encourage parents to provide children with a sufficient and healthy lunch. Children are required to wear school uniform which parents may purchase locally or sometimes at school. Your school will also advise you on transport arrangements. Parents on low income/social welfare may apply for assistance towards the cost of school uniforms from the Community Welfare Officer.School Principals may assist with the cost of school books. The Citizens Information Centre may be able to advise further on this.

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Things you should know Alcohol in Ireland Unless you are at least 18 years old it is illegal to buy,attempt to buy or consume alcohol in Ireland. It is also illegal to obtain alcohol for anybody below the minimum age. Generally alcohol can only be served to the public on licensed premises,“the pub” (short for “public house”) being the most common place to get a drink. In recent years more and more bars and clubs have emerged, concentrating on a younger, more sophisticated and/or seriously affluent clientele. Restaurants may be licensed to serve alcohol, though not all are. You will usually have to order a meal to get served drinks.Young people under 18 are not allowed to be in pubs after 21.00, even if accompanied by a parent.

Alcohol and Driving in Ireland The Irish police strictly enforce the law and will breath test suspect drunken drivers. Should the alcohol level be found to be over the legal limit you will under no circumstances be allowed to continue your journey and a court appearance is compulsory. So please respect traffic laws and drive in a responsible manner.

Misuse of Controlled Drugs Controlled drugs are classified for the purposes of investigation or prosecution as Class A, B or C drugs. Classification is important in determining the sentencing powers of the courts.

Class A: This class includes the most notorious and dangerous drugs such as heroin, morphine, cocaine, crack cocaine, ecstasy and LSD Class B: This class includes amphetamine

Class C: This class includes some commonly-abused prescription drugs, and, has recently been altered to include cannabis and cannabis resin.

Possession and trafficking of cannabis are still 34 criminal offences. There are laws that give the police powers to stop and search a person and enter and search premises and vehicles for controlled drugs.

Weapons It is an offence for a person (without lawful authority or good reason) to have with them in a public place any offensive weapon. An ‘offensive weapon’ means any article made or adapted for use to cause or attempt to cause injury; including knives or guns.

Guns Possession of guns and firearms is considered illegal in Ireland. Some weapons are deemed to be "restricted" but may be licensed by the Garda Commissioner. Any person wishing to obtain such a licence may apply for a firearms certificate. Firearms certificates are only granted for recreational or sporting purposes. You will not be granted a licence for a weapon for the purposes of personal protection, the protection of others or property.

Smoking Since May 2005 a blanket ban on smoking in workplaces and enclosed public spaces is in effect in Ireland. The Republic had the first smoking ban in Europe and in 2007 Northern Ireland followed suit. The law insists on a smoke free environment in public places including restaurants and even the traditional Irish pub.

Before you drive in Ireland, you must have a valid driving licence, which you must have with you when driving. Your vehicle must be adequately insured, taxed and roadworthy. (All cars over 4 years must undergo the National Car Test (NCT)

Driving in Ireland Motorists drive on the left side of the road in Ireland. Everyone in a car must use a seatbelt – both front and back. The speed limit is usually 50 km/hour (or 30 miles per hour mph) in cities, towns, villages and other built up areas unless otherwise stated. The general speed limit is 100 km/hr (60 mph). Drivers caught speeding must pay a fine and receive penalty points on their driving licence (12 penalty points means you lose your licence). It is also illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.You must be sure to wear your seat belt, and take care that children are positioned either in their child-seats or wear their seat belts, according to age.

35 Detailed information on driving rules, road signs, etc. can be found in the book “Rules of the Road”, available in libraries and bookshops.

All new cars and cars that are imported into Ireland are subject to Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) and must be registered with the Revenue Commissioners. Every motor vehicle in Ireland (with the exception of vehicles brought in temporarily by a visitor) must be registered with the Revenue Commissioners. If you are buying a new car or are importing a car into Ireland from abroad, you will need to do three things before you can drive your car in Ireland: Importing a Car into Ireland • Pay Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) • Have motor insurance • Pay motor tax You can get information about importing your car into Ireland by contacting the Vehicle Registration Offices (VRO) which have offices throughout Ireland or contacting them at:VRO, St John’s House,Tallaght Dublin 24 Tel: (01) 414 9700 (01) 878 0100

More details available from The Government Offices, Donegal Town, Donegal and also from the VROs at Pearse Road, Letterkenny, Donegal and at Park House, St. Mary’s Road, Buncrana.

Television Licences Any person living at an address where a television set is held is legally responsible for the licensing of the television set regardless of ownership of either the premises or the set itself. In Ireland it is a prosecutable offence to be found in possession of an unlicensed television set. A TV licence currently costs €160.

Dog Licence It is an offence to keep a dog in Ireland unless you have a dog licence. In order to obtain a dog licence in Ireland, you must be over 16 years of age. Dog licences are issued by the post office or at the Donegal County Council Public Services Centre.

Voluntary work Voluntary work is working without payment, or working for minimum expenses, for a non-profit organisation, such as a charity, community organisation or locally based initiative. A lot of people volunteer because they want to "give back to society" or make a contribution to their community, often helping out with causes they believe in. Voluntary work can

36 give people the chance to travel, meet new people and accumulate life and career enhancing experiences and skills. You can volunteer for almost everything. From national charities, environmental projects, arts or sporting clubs to local community groups, there are thousands of organisations in Ireland that need volunteers. Some groups advertise for volunteers while others you will need to approach. Talk to the Volunteer Centre people at Donegal Local Development Company and they will help find a placement: [email protected] or phone the DLDC on 074 9127056

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Eating in Ireland “When in Rome ...” is an old saying but it has a universal truth. So, when in Ireland, do as the Irish do. And when it comes to food and drink the visitor to Ireland should endeavour to savour local specialities. Have you ever an ‘Ulster fry’or ‘oysters with Guinness’? This guide will help you understand the Irish palate a little more.

1.The Full Irish Also known as a “fried breakfast”or locally an “Ulster fry”, this will combine any or all of the following – eggs (fried or scrambled), sausages, bacon, black and white puddings (a type of sausage), mushrooms, baked beans, grilled tomato, potato farls and fried bread. All accompanied by slices of toast,jam,marmalade,sauces and copious amounts of tea or coffee. Basically a day’s intake of calories in one sitting. Also known as “heart attack on a plate” – but still extremely enjoyable.

2. Irish Stew This is a typical traditional dish. It is basically a thick meat casserole containing lamb or (rarely today) mutton or beef, onions, parsley and a generous helping of potatoes. The meat may be diced or minced, peas and carrots might liven up the dish a bit. Depending on the cook the stew can also be almost soup-like.

3. Fresh Salmon Regarded as a delicacy in other countries,salmon was one of the most common fish in Ireland and a staple ingredient of the Irish meal and menu. The usual way of preparation is poached in fish stock, this then being served with peas and potatoes. Fried salmon is popular as well. Exotic dishes such as pasta with salmon are slowly catching on.

4. Smoked Salmon The most popular way to enjoy salmon is simply smoked, either on bread, with scrambled egg or simply on its own with a salad side. 38 5. Oysters These shellfish were once food for the poor. Oysters were plentiful and free on the Irish coast before they became a delicacy and an aphrodisiac in “better circles”. Normally served on ice with a helping of seaweed, it is a no-frills food. The traditional side dish would be a pint of Guinness.

6. Baked Ham Definitely not a poor man’s dish, the traditional Irish ham was coated with sugar and dressed with some cloves, then baked until crisp on the outside, tender on the inside. Generally served with loads of boiled cabbage and cooked or fried potatoes.

7. Lamb While sheep are plentiful in Ireland their meat is actually quite expensive. The best parts are fine cutlets or a traditional rack of lamb. Both are accompanied by potatoes and sometimes served with mint sauce.

8. Sandwich Encompassing any filling that can be placed between two slices of bread. All sorts of weird and wonderful ingredients make up the filling, from the old favourite “ham and cheese” to the dull “stuffing and coleslaw”.

9. Soup of the Day Advertised nearly everywhere, usually served with bread and butter and is a very good value snack at lunchtime. In a typical Irish way the question “What is the soup of the day?” will, in nine out of ten cases, be answered with a shrug and “vegetable”.

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Directory Foreign Embassies / Consulates

CANADA Foreign Embassies / Consulates 3rd Floor, 7/8,Wilton Terrace Dublin 2 Tel: 01-2344000 e.mail:[email protected]

CHINA 40 Ailesbury Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2691707 e.mail: chinaemb [email protected]

ARGENTINA 15 Ailesbury Drive, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2691546 e.mail: [email protected]

CYPRUS 71 Lower Leeson Street Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6763060 e.mail: [email protected]

AUSTRALIA 2nd Floor Fitzwilton House Wilton Terrace Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6645300 e.mail: [email protected]

CZECH REPUBLIC 57 Northumberland Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6681135 e.mail: [email protected]

40 AUSTRIA 15 Ailesbury Court. 93 Ailesbury Road Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2694577 e.mail: [email protected]

DENMARK 7th Floor, Block E,Veagh Court, Harcourt Road Dublin 2 Tel: 01-4756404 e.mail: [email protected]

BELGIUM 2 Shrewsbury Road Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2057100 e.mail: [email protected]

EGYPT 12 Clyde Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6606718 e.mail: info@embegyptireland

BRAZIL Europa House Block 8, Harcourt Centre Charlotte Way, Dublin 2.Tel: 01-4756000 e.mail: brasembdublin@brazil-ie-org

ESTONIA Riversdale House, St Ann’s, Ailesbury Road, Dublin 4. Tel: 01-2196730 e.mail: [email protected]

BULGARIA 22 Burlington Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6603293 e.mail: [email protected]

FINLAND Russell House Stokes Place Street Stephen’s Green Dublin 2 Tel: 01-4781344 e.mail: [email protected]

FRANCE 36 Ailesbury Road Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2475000 e.mail: [email protected]

Japan Nutley Building Merrion Centre Nutley Lane Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2028300 e.mail:[email protected]

41 GERMANY 31 Trimleston Avenue Booterstown Blackrock Dublin. Tel: 01-2693011 e.mail: [email protected]

KOREA 15 Clyde Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6608800 e.mail: [email protected]

GREAT BRITAIN 29 Merrion Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2053700 e.mail: [email protected]

MEXICO 19, Raglan Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6673105 e.mail: [email protected]

GREECE 1 Upper Pembroke Street Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6767254 e.mail: [email protected]

MOROCCO 39 Raglan Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6609449 e.mail: [email protected]

INDIA 6 Leeson Park Dublin 6 Tel: 01-4970843 e.mail: [email protected]

NETHERLANDS 160 Merrion Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2693444 e.mail: [email protected]

IRAN 72 Mount Merrion Avenue Blackrock Dublin Tel: 01-2880252 e.mail: [email protected]

NIGERIA 56 Leeson Park Dublin 6 Tel: 01-6604366 e.mail: [email protected]

42 NORWAY 34 Molesworth St Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6621800 e.mail: [email protected]

ISRAEL Carrisbrook House 122 Pembroke Road Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2309400 e.mail: [email protected]

POLAND 5 Ailesbury Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2830855 e.mail: [email protected]

ITALY 63/65 Northumberland Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 660-1744 e.mail: [email protected]

PORTUGAL 15, Leeson Park, Dublin 6. Tel: 01-4127040 e.mail: [email protected]

ROMANIA 26,Waterloo Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6681085 e.mail: [email protected]

RUSSIA 184-186 Orwell Road Rathgar Dublin 14 Tel: 01-4922048 e.mail: [email protected]

SLOVAKIA Charge d’ Affaires a.i. 20 Clyde Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 660-0012 e.mail: emb.dublin@mzvsk

SOUTH AFRICA Charge d’Affaires a.i 2nd Floor Alexandra House Earlsfort Centre Earlsfort Terrace Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6615553 e.mail: [email protected]

43 SPAIN 17a Merlyn Park Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2839900 e.mail: [email protected]

SWITZERLAND 6 Ailesbury Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-2186382 e.mail: [email protected]

TURKEY 11 Clyde Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6685240 e.mail: [email protected]

SLOVENIA Morrison Chambers, 2nd Floor, 32 Nassau Street, Dublin 2. Tel: 01-6705240 e.mail: [email protected]

SAUDI ARABIA 6 & 7 Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin 2. Tel: 01-6760704 e.mail: [email protected]

UKRAINE 16, Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Tel: 01-6685189 e.mail: [email protected]

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Glandore Business Centre, Fitzwilliam Hall, Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2 Tel: 01-669-8588 e.mail [email protected]

USA 42 Elgin Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Tel: 01-6306200 e.mail: [email protected]

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Government Departments in Donegal

KILLYBEGS Revenue Commissioners Customs & Excise Killybegs Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 1070 Fax: +353 74 973 1937 www.revenue.ie

LETTERKENNY Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Land Commission Government Offices Oliver Plunkett Street Letterkenny,Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 912 1188 Fax: +353 74 912 2791 email: [email protected] www.Irlgov.ie/daff

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Farm Development Government Offices High Road Letterkenny Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 912 2199 Fax: +353 74 912 8271 email: [email protected] www.agriculture.ie

Revenue Commissioners Inspector of Taxes Government Offices High Road, Letterkenny Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 916 9400 Fax: +353 74 912 2357 www.revenue.ie Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30-5.00

DONEGAL TOWN Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Veterinary Livestock Donegal Town Co. Donegal 45 Tel: +353 74 972 1048 Fax: +353 74 972 3276 email: [email protected] www.agriculture.ie

RAPHOE Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Farm Development Irwinsyard Meeting House Street Raphoe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 5990 Fax: +353 74 914 5348 email: [email protected] www.Irlgov.ie/daff

46 WELCOME TO

Local government offices in Donegal LIFFORD Donegal County Council, Lifford Co. Donegal Tel: 074-9172222 email: [email protected]

DONEGAL TOWN Donegal Public Services Centre. Tel: 074-9724400. e.mail [email protected]

LETTERKENNY Letterkenny Public Services Centre. Tel:074-9194200. e.mail: [email protected]

CARNDONAGH Carndonagh Public Services Centre.Tel: 074-9373700 e.mail: [email protected]

DUNGLOE Dungloe Public Services Centre.Tel: 074-9561300 e.mail [email protected]

MILFORD Milford Public Services Centre, Main St Milford Tel: (074) 91 53900

Also Town Council Offices at: Letterkenny Town Council, Public Services Centre, Neil T Blaney Rd, Letterkenny.Tel: (074) 91 94222

Ballyshannon Town Council, Public Services Outreach and Library, Abbey View, Ballyshannon.Tel: (071)98 58270

Buncrana Town Council, Civic Offices, St. Oran’s Rd, Buncrana.Tel: (074) 93 20020

Bundoran Town Council, Main St. Bundoran. Tel: (071) 98 41230 47 WELCOME TO

Department of Social and Family Affairs BALLYBOFEY Unit 1, Garvan Court, Main Street, Ballybofey. Tel: 074-9130490 Opening hours: 9.30 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00.

BALLYSHANNON East Port, Ballyshannon.Tel: 071-9822030 Opening Hours: 9.30 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00

BUNCRANA McCarter’s Road, Ardaravan, Buncrana.Tel: 074-9364600 Opening hours: 9.15 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00

DONEGAL TOWN Unit 7, Donegal Shopping Centre, The Glebe Donegal Town Tel: 074-9740050 Opening hours: 9.30 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00

DUNFANAGHY Main Street, Dunfanaghy.Tel: 074-9136750. Opening hours: 09.15 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00

DUNGLOE Public Services Centre, Gweedore Road, Dungloe. Tel: 074-9561031 Opening hours: 9.15 – 16.00

KILLYBEGS Bridge Street, Killybegs.Tel: 074-9741010 Opening hours: 9.30 – 12.00, 14.00 – 16.00

LETTERKENNY High Road, Letterkenny.Tel: 074-9160460 Opening hours: 9.30 – 16.00

48 WELCOME TO

Hospitals in Donegal Carndonagh Community Hospital, Carndonagh. Tel: 074-9374164

Donegal Town Community Hospital. Tel: 074-9721019

Dungloe Community Hospital. Tel: 074-9521044

Letterkenny General Hospital. Tel: 074-9125888

Lifford Community Hospital. Tel: 074-9141033

Ballyshannon Sheil Hospital. Tel: 071-9851200

49 WELCOME TO

Citizens Information Centres in Donegal

BALLYBOFEY Ballybofey Outreach Service Ballybofey Outreach B/S Credit Union Building Main Street, Ballybofey Co. Donegal. Tel: 074-9131702. Opening Hours: Fridays 10.00am - 3.00pm Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

BALLYSHANNON Ballyshannon CIC Public Services Outreach Centre Library Building Abbeyview Ballyshannon Co. Donegal Tel: 071- 9851666 e.mail: [email protected]. Opening hours:Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 10.00 – 15.00

BUNCRANA 12, Lower Main Street, Buncrana. Tel: 074-9363496. e.mail: [email protected]. Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 09.30 – 16.30

LETTERKENNY Public Services Centre, Neil T. Blaney Rd, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.Tel: (074) 91 94 200

CARNDONAGH Public Services Centre, Malin Road, Carndonagh. Tel: 074-9373741. e.mail: [email protected]. Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 09.00 – 16.30.

DONEGAL TOWN Public Services Centre, Drumlonagher, Donegal. Tel: 074-9724460. e.mail [email protected]. Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 09.00 – 16.30.

50 MILFORD Milford Citizens Information Centre Public Services Centre Millford. Tel: (074) 9153901 Opening Hours:Mon-Fri 9.00-4.30 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Dungloe CIC Public Services Centre Gweedore Road Dungloe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 956 1360 fax: +353 74 956 1395 email: [email protected] Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9.00 am - 4.30 pm Wheelchair-accessible:Yes Dungloe Citizens Information Centre is an Independent Information Unit located within the Public Services Centre

51 WELCOME TO

Garda Stations in Donegal

LETTERKENNY Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 8102 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Ardara Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 1102 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Ballintra Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 4002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Bundoran Co.Donegal Tel:+353 71 984 1203 fax: +353 71 984 2714 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Ballybofey Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 1002 fax: +353 74 913 2624 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Burnfoot Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 936 8194 fax: +353 74 936 8462 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Ballyshannon Co. Donegal Tel: +353 71 985 1102 fax: +353 71 985 2224 email: N/A www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 2007 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Brocach Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 3002 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Carndonagh Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 937 4109 fax: +353 74 937 4183 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Bunbeg Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 953 1333

52 fax: +353 74 953 2966 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: Mon - 1.00, Sun 12.00-2.00

Garda Station Carrick Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 9002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Carrigans Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 0113 fax: +353 74 914 0233 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Buncrana Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 936 1555 fax: +353 74 936 1602 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Carrigart Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 5104 fax: +353 74 915 5112 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 8002 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 937 9102 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Castlefinn Co.Donegal Tel:+353 74 914 6113 fax: +353 74 914 6154 www: http://www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Donegal Town Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 972 1021 fax:+353 74 972 1730 www.garda.ie Opening Hours:24 hrs Wheelchair-accessible: No

Garda Station Church Hill Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 7002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Doocharry Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 6152 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Clogher Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 5102 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Dunfanaghy Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 6114 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Co.Donegal Tel:+353 74 937 6102 fax: +353 74 937 8049 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Dungloe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 952 1000 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

53 Garda Station Convoy Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 7114 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Dunkineely Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 7002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 5113 fax: +353 74 916 5451 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Lifford Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 1000 fax: +353 74 914 1202 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Glencolumbkille Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 0002 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Malin Head Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 937 0602 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Glenties Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 955 1108 fax: +353 74 955 1603 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Milford Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 3114 fax: +353 74 915 3417 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 0002 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 5002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Killybegs Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 1002 fax: +353 74 973 1197 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-12.00 & 8.00-9.00

Garda Station Moville Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 938 2002 fax: +353 74 938 2836 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 10.00- 1.00 & Sun 2.00-4.00

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 9002 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Muff Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 938 4002 fax: +353 74 938 4304 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

54 Garda Station Letterkenny Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 912 2222 fax: +353 74 912 8452 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 24 hrs

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 6113 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: N/A

Garda Station Pettigoe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 71 986 1512 www.garda.ie Opening Hours: 10.00-1.00

Garda Station Raphoe Co. Donegal. www.garda.ie Tel: (074) 9145114

Garda Station Rathmelton Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 1002 www.garda.ie

Garda Station Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 8113 www.garda.ie

55 WELCOME TO

Health Centres in Donegal

Bayview Family Practice Belleek Road Ballyshannon Co. Donegal Tel: +353 71 985 1600 fax: +353 71 985 2811 Opening Hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 9.00-11.30 & 3.00-5.00, Thur 9.00-1.00 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Buncrana Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 936 1044 fax: +353 74 936 2697 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.00- 1.00 & 2.00-5.00 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Annagry Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 8310 Opening Hours: Mon 3.00-5.00 & Tue, Fri 10.00-12.45 Wheelchair-accessible: No

Health Centre Ardara Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 1134 fax: +353 74 954 1331 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10.00-1.00

Health Centre Burtonport Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 2072 Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 9.30 - 12.30 Wheelchair- accessible:Yes

Health Centre Creeslough Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 8058 Opening Hours: Mon - 1.00 & 2.30-5.00 Wheelchair- accessible:Yes

Health Centre Carndonagh Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 937 4251 Opening Hours: N/A Wheelchair-accessible: N/A

Health Centre Derrybeg Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 953 2334 fax:+353 74 953 2334 Opening Hours:Mon - 1.00 & 3.00-5.30 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Carrick Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 9380 Opening Hours: Mon & Wed 2.00- 4.00

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 6162 Opening Hours: N/A Wheelchair-accessible:Yes 56 Health Centre Clonmany Co.Donegal Tel:+353 74 937 6173 fax: +353 74 937 6920 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.00- 12.00, 3.30-5.30,Weds half day Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Dunfanaghy Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 6527 fax: +353 74 916 5593 Opening Hours: Mon - 11.30 & 3.00-5.00 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Castlefinn Co.Donegal Tel:+353 74 914 6163 fax: +353 74 914 6818 Opening Hours: Mon - 10.30 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Dungloe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 952 1933 fax: +353 74 952 2228 Opening Hours: Mon - 12.45 & 3.00- 4.45 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Cloghan Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 3031 fax: +353 74 913 3334 Opening Hours: Mon - 12.00 & 4.00- 5.00 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Dunkineely Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 7283 Opening Hours: Mon - 5.00 Wheelchair-accessible:

Health Centre Fahan Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 936 0277 Opening Hours: Mon 10.00-1.00 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Killybegs Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 1148 fax: +353 74 973 2167 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 1.00 & 2.00-6.00 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 6126 Opening Hours:Wed 10.00-10.30 Wheelchair-accessible: No

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 9312 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 10.30

Health Centre Glencolumbkille Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 0067 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 10.30

Health Centre Kilmacrenan Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 9050 Opening Hours: Mon & Thur 10.30-1.00 Wheelchair- accessible:Yes

Health Centre Glenties Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 955 1330 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10.00- 12.30, 3.00-5.00. Half day Weds Wheelchair-accessible: No

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 954 4147 fax: +353 74 954 4172 57 email: [email protected] Opening Hours: Mon, Weds, Thurs 10.00-12.00 & Mon 3.00- 5.00 Wheelchair-accessible: No

Health Centre Brinaleck Gweedore Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 953 1395 Opening Hours: Thur 11.00-1.00 Wheelchair-accessible: No

Health Centre Malin Head Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 937 0637 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 10.30

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 8069 Opening Hours: N/A

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 7230 fax: +353 74 914 5847 Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 9.30-12.00 Wheelchair- accessible:Yes

Health Centre Quigleys Point Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 938 3036 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 10.30

Health Centre Mountcharles Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 973 5100 fax: +353 74 973 5100 Opening Hours: Mon,Wed, Fri 9.30-12.30 & Mon,Tue,Thur, Fri 3.30-6.00

Health Centre Raphoe Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 5835 fax: +353 74 914 5847 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 1.00 & 2.00-5.00 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Rathmullan Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 8322 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 12.30 & 3.30-5.30 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Dispensary Building Moville Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 938 2048 fax: +353 74 938 2538 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30- 5.30 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre St. Johnston Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 914 8479 fax: +353 74 914 5847 Opening Hours: Mon 2.30-5.00 & Tue, Thur, Fri 9.30-12.00 Wheelchair- accessible:Yes

Health Centre Muff Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 938 4067 Opening Hours: N/A Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Newtowncunningham Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 6328 Opening Hours: Mon - 10.30 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

58 Health Centre Ballybofey & Stranorlar Stranorlar Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 1391 fax: +353 74 913 1982 www: http://www.nwhb.ie Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.00- 5.30 Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 71 986 1521 Opening Hours: N/A Wheelchair-accessible:Yes

Health Centre Tamney Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 915 9449 Opening Hours: Mon,Tue,Thur, Fri 9.00-5.00,Wed 9.00-1.00

Health Centre Co. Donegal Tel: +353 74 913 5504 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10.00 - 1.00 centre Mon - Fri 2.00 - 5.00 home runs

Also at: Bree Malin Head Tel: (074) 91 37516 Churchill Tel: (074) 91 37516 Stranorlar Tel: (074) 91 31344 Convoy Tel: (074) 9147317 Tel: (074) 9151732 Creeslough Tel: (074) 91 38058 Milford Tel: (074) 91 53820

Falcarragh Tel: (074) 91 65014 Carrigart Tel: (074) 91 55163 Lifford Tel: (074) 9141691 Derrybeg Tel: (074) 95 31499 Burt Tel: (074) 9156386 Tel: (074) 97 36567 Laghey Tel: (074) 97 23630 Aranmore Tel: (074) 95 20105 Ballintra Tel: (074) 97 34303 Bundoran Tel: (071) 98 42499 Culdaff Tel: (074) 93 74164

59 WELCOME TO

Library Service

County Librarian & Divisional Manager, Cultural Services: Eileen Burgess Tel 074 91 21968 Fax 074 91 21740

County Library, Administrative Centre Senior Executive Librarian: Maureen Kerr Tel 074 91 21968 Fax 074 91 21740 email : [email protected]

Staff Officer, Library Service : Frances Crampsie Tel 074 91 61818

Letterkenny & Inishowen Electoral Areas A/Senior Executive Librarian: Helen McNutt Letterkenny Electoral Area Executive Librarian: Marianne Lynch

Central Library, Letterkenny Staff Officer, Library Service: Ursula Cuttliffe Staff Officer, Library Service: Una Mathewson Tel 074 91 24950 Fax 074 91 24950 e-mail: [email protected] Milford Community Library A/Staff Officer, Library Service: Bridget Sterritt Tel 074 91 53927 Fax 074 91 53951 e-mail: [email protected] Ramelton Community Library Branch Librarian: Phyllis Loughrey Tel 074 91 51414 e-mail: [email protected]

Inishowen Electoral Area Executive Librarian: Carmel Barron 60 Carndonagh Community Library Tel 074 93 73701 Fax 074 93 73756 e-mail: [email protected] Buncrana Community Library Staff Officer, Library Service: Sinead McLaughlin Tel 074 93 61941 Fax 074 93 61980 e-mail: [email protected] Moville Branch Library Senior Library Assistant: Gerard Duddy Tel 074 93 85110 e-mail: [email protected] Clonmany Branch Library Branch Librarian: Nell Lavelle Tel 074 93 78951 e-mail: [email protected]

Stranorlar, Donegal & Glenties Electoral Areas Senior Executive Librarian: Donna Quinn Stranorlar & Glenties Electoral Area Executive Librarian: Geraldine McHugh Ballybofey Branch Library Senior Library Assistant: Eva Browne Tel 074 91 75384 Lifford Branch Library Branch Librarian: Peadar Molloy Tel 074 91 72726 e-mail: [email protected] Raphoe Branch Library (Contact: Peadar Molloy) Tel 074 91 44115 e-mail: [email protected] Leabharlann Phobail na Rosann Staff Officer, Library Service: Margaret Sweeney Tel 074 95 22500 Fax 074 95 22501 e-mail: [email protected] Leabharlann Gaoth Dobhair Branch Librarian: Maíre Bean Uí Bhaoill Tel 074 95 60862 e-mail: [email protected]

Donegal Electoral Area Bundoran Community Library Staff Officer, Library Service: Rory Tel 071 98 29665 Fax 071 98 29652 e-mail: [email protected]

61 Ballyshannon Branch Library Branch Librarian: May Walsh Tel 071 98 58824 e-mail: [email protected] Donegal Town Branch Library Branch Librarian: Rory Gallagher Tel 074 97 25329 e-mail: [email protected] Killybegs Branch Library Branch Librarian: Sylvia Murrin Tel 074 97 32860 e-mail: [email protected]

*Please see the Taobh Tire link under Library Guide for details of library services in other areas run in partnership with local communities. Contact the Admin Centre for details of the Cross Border Mobile Library service for those near the border area of East Donegal and South Inishowen, or see the Cross Border Mobile Library service link under Library Guide.

62 WELCOME TO

Addresses of Resource Groups / Useful Contacts Immigrant Council of Ireland 2 St. Andrew Street Dublin 2 Tel: 01 674 0202 Fax: 01 645 8031 Email: [email protected] www.immigrantcouncil.ie COMHLAMH 10 Upper Camden Street, Dublin 2. Tel: 01 478 3490 Fax: 01 478 3738 Email: [email protected] www.comhlamh.org Irish Association of Non-Governmental Development Organisations 12 Harcourt Street Free Legal Advice Centre Irish Human Rights Commission Immigrant Council of Ireland Integrating Ireland Migrant Rights Centre 10 Upper Camden Street Dublin 2 Tel: 01 478 3490 Fax: 01 478 3738 Email: [email protected] www.integratingireland.ie 55 Parnell Square West Dublin 1 Tel: 01 889 7570 Fax: 01 889 7579 Email: [email protected] www.mrci.ie Integrate Ireland Language and Training, 126 Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 NASC Tel: 01 667 7232 Fax: 01 664 3726 Email: [email protected] www.iilt.ie Irish Immigrant Support Centre Enterprise House, 35 Mary Street Cork Irish Chinese Information Centre 57-58 Smithfield, Dublin 7 Tel: 021- 431 7411 Email: [email protected] www.nascireland.org Tel: 01 872 7312 National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism 3rd Floor Irish Council for Civil Liberties Jervis House, Jervis Street Dublin 1 Tel: 01 47858 8000 Email: [email protected] www.nccri.com Email: [email protected] www.iccl.ie 63 Psychology Service for Refugees and Asylum Seekers Dept. Psychology, St. Brendan’s Hospital

Irish Refugee Council 88 Capel Street, Dublin 1. Tel: 01 873 0042 Fax: 01 873 0088 Email: [email protected] www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie Rathdown Road Dublin 7 Tel: 01 869 3081 Email: [email protected]

Ennis Office: 1 Bank Place, , Co. Clare Tel: 065 682 2026 Fax: 065 682 2017 Email: [email protected]

Refugee Information Service (RIS) 27 Annamoe Terrace North Circular Road, Dublin 7

Islamic Cultural Centre Dublin 7 Tel: 01 838 2740 Fax: 01 838 2482 Email: [email protected] www.ris.ie 19 Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 208 0000 Fax: 01 260 3708 www.iccislam.org

Islamic Foundation of Ireland Timberlay House, 79/83 Lower Mount Street Dublin 2 Freephone: 1800 229222 Phone (01) 6310800 Fax: (01) 6615011 email: [email protected]

163 South Circular Road, Dublin 8 Tel: 01 453 3242

Refugee Legal Service Freephone: 1800 229 222 48/49 North Brunswick Street, Georges Lane, Dublin 7 Freephone: 1800 23 83 43 Phone: (01) 6469600 Fax: (01) 6710200 email: [email protected] Jones Engineering Building, Euro Buiness Park, Little Island Cork Freephone: 1800 202420 Phone: (021) 4510000 Fax: (021) 4510048 email: [email protected] Seviller House, New Dock St, Galway Freephone: 1800 502400 Phone: (091) 562480 Fax: (091) 562599 email: [email protected] www.legalaidboard.ie

Roma Support Group C/o Pavee Point, 46 North Charles Street, Dublin 1 Tel: 01 878 0255 Email: [email protected] www.romasupport.ie

Ruhama Senior House, All Hallows College, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 Tel: 01 836 0292 Email: [email protected] www.ruhama.ie

SPIRASI Spiritan Asylum Services Ireland 213 North Circular Road, Dublin 7 Tel: 01 838 9664 Fax: 01 868 6500 Email: [email protected] www.spirasi.ie 64

European Union European Regional Development Fund Investing in your future oea rnigCmayt. Printing Company Donegal

Project supported by PEACE III Programme managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by Donegal County Council (074) 9121710