Dún na nGall - pobail i d’teagmháil Donegal Community in Touch Issue 19 July 2013 / Iúil 2013
NEWs 2 DONEGAL BuSiNESS 10 Welcome EDUCATION AND LEARNiNG 12 SOCIAL AND CULTURAL 14 Fáilte DONEGAL COMMUNITY LINKS 15 Cathal Goan Message From The Mayor Céad Míle Fáilte Growing up in Belfast I hope this issue of Donegal community in touch finds you all in the 1960s, Donegal well. By the time this is published held a special place I will have just finished my year long term as Mayor. I have had for me imaginatively. an incredible year as Mayor of Donegal, it has been busy but very enjoyable. We lived for a large part of that decade with our I dedicated my year as Mayor grandparents who were from the neighbouring to promoting sport and positive townlands of Kildoney and Cloughbolie some three mental health and this all came together when I held the conference SAM at the end of May with some of the best miles north of Ballyshannon. speakers in the business including Donegal person of Their conversation with I think I have been lucky in the year Jim McGunniess. Being away from home can be hard especially for the younger generation that has been visitors about their homeplace never losing that sense of emigrating due to the present economic climate. Thankfully resonated with names of friends enchantment; if anything it there are many sporting clubs around the world that bring and family, heroes and villains, has increased as I have grown the Irish community together and this can be a valuable placenames and events that older and as I got to know other lifeline to many. were at once familiar through parts of the county, particularly Just recently we honoured some of our Olympians, Para repetition and yet remote in time Gaeltacht areas around the Olympians, Natalie McCarron and former Manchester United and distance. Snippets remain Rosses and Gaoth Dobhair. I and Celtic player Paddy Crerand with Civic receptions. We of barely understood exploits met my wife Maighread Ní also welcomed The Lord Provost Sadie Doherty to Donegal including my great uncle Red Dhomhnaill at the Irish College were she was also bestowed this honour. Willie Goan’s role in a court in Rann na Feirste where she The year of the gathering has also been a great success here case that went all the way to has very strong family ties. Over in Donegal as there are over 170 events planned with many the British House of Lords and the years we have returned people making the journey home to attend. These events will where Brehon Law and Magna there often and now consider help us promote Donegal and show visitors what the county Carta were invoked in a dispute ourselves blessed because we has to offer. We are continuing to strengthen our links with over salmon fishing rights in have a small home there, right the Donegal Diaspora around the world and in particular the Erne Estuary. Visits to on the site where Maighread’s Boston as Eugene O’Flaherty, Michael Patrick McDonald, Cloughbolie on summer holidays own great grandmother was John Cullinane and Senator Therese Murray visited us. only increased the sense of a born. It is a place apart for One of my last official duties as Mayor was giving Patsy special place apart. Kilbarron renewal and restoration and McGonagle The Freedom of the County. Patsy has dedicated Castle was a favoured haunt we go as often as possible to his life to Athletics here in the Finn Valley and has been for fishing and imagining the breathe in the salt air, relish the Team manager to the Irish athletics team at three Olympics horrors associated with “The special quality of silence and of now. I felt it was important to give this honour to somebody Murder Hole” , not to speak conversation and give thanks for that doesn’t usually get the recognition that they deserve. of learning about its historical the connection. I would just like to finish off by wishing good health and connections as the birth place happiness to all of the Donegal Diaspora and remember to of Mícheál Ó Cléirigh of the Four Cathal Goan visit us soon. Masters. Le Gach Dea Ghul Cathal Goan is a radio and television producer. Cathal played a main role in the Cllr Frank McBrearty Continued Inside launch of TG4. He was Director-General of RTÉ in 2003 – 2010. An Meara Contae Dhun na nGall News DONEGAL-IRISH DIASPORA CONFERENCE
On the 4th – 5th june 2013, the donegal-irish diaspora/hands of history conference took place at the letterkenny institute of technology in co. Donegal. The event addressed the history, legacy and experiences of the irish diaspora bringing together politicians, journalists, writers, and academics from ireland, scotland, new zealand and america. It also focused on present day migration from ireland, the diasporas’ shared history and a point to a shared future. It was attended by over 150 delegates.
Left to right: Donegal County Council Manager Seamus Neely, Prof. Frank Talty (UMass Lowell), Director of Service Donegal County Council Michael O’hEanaigh, Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’ Flaherty, Former Mayor Frank McBrearty, Writer and Broadcaster Frank Galligan, Sr Lena Deevy (Director, Irish International Immigration Centre Boston), Boston Globe Columnist Kevin Cullen and Writer Michael Patrick MacDonald. Welcome Opening the conference, Former Former Mayor Frank McBrearty and Donegal County Manager Seamus Neely discussed how the strong immigration patterns in Donegal over the past 400 years have left a worldwide Donegal community and Diaspora. They stressed the importance of this community to the county and how efforts are being made to make the connection with them. The links that have been developed in America, in particular Massachusetts, through the Tip O’ Neill Centenary celebrations and Golden Bridges Awards were discussed.
Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’Flaherty speaking to Left to Right: Sr Lena Deevy (Director Emeritus, IIIC Boston and Mayor McBrearty and Mr Paul Hannigan Former Mayor Frank McBrearty.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 2 News DONEGAL-IRISH DIASPORA CONFERENCE
Day 1 Chairing the first session of speakers, Prof. Paul Arthur stressed how the conference would build upon the recent 100th Anniversary celebrations of Tip O’ Neill and how this debate would be broadened to look at the experiences of the Diaspora globally in Scotland, New Zealand, and America. Dr. Nollaig Ó Muraíle discussed the links that Ireland had with the rest of the Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. Prof. Tom Devine then explored the experience of the Donegal Irish since the Great War. In particular he detailed the sectarian discrimination that the Catholic Irish suffered in Scotland. Exploring the Venniconian Kingdoms, Dr. Ian Adamson discussed Donegal’s migratory links to the rest of the North West of Ireland, also focusing on Ulster Scots migratory patterns from the 5th to the 17th centuries.
Prof. Paul Arthur (University of Ulster). Dr Nollaig O Muraile (NUI Galway) and Former Mayor Frank McBrearty
Prof. Tom Devine OBE (University of Edinburgh). Dr. Ian Adamson OBE (Ullans Academy).
Chairing the second panel of speakers, Dr. Patrick Fitzgerald noted how the papers would challenge the dominant perceptions of Irish migration to America and further afield. Prof. David Emmons discussed Butte, and the Donegal Connection focusing in particular on the political and economic influence of the Irish in Butte. In her paper exploring the history of Irish migration to New Zealand, Prof. McCarthy discussed the experiences of Irish migrants who were committed to asylums in New Zealand.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 3 News DONEGAL-IRISH DIASPORA CONFERENCE
Left to right: Dr. Patrick Fitzgerald (Mellon Centre for Migration Left to Right: Prof. Angela McCarthy (University of Otago) and Studies, Ulster American Folk Park), Prof. Angela McCarthy Former Mayor Frank McBrearty. (University of Otago) and Prof. David Emmons (Prof. Emeritus University of Montana). Panel Discussion Immigration Reform United States Case Study Chaired by Writer and Broadcaster Frank Galligan, the panel discussed the current debate of immigration reform. Sr Lena Deevy and Boston Globe columnist Kevin Cullen argued that in the current economic climate, the experience for Irish immigrants in America is changing. Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’ Flaherty noted that for the first time in Washington, the issue is being taken seriously with a Bi-partisan group working on the issue.
Left to Right: Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’Flaherty, Left to Right: Writer Michael Patrick MacDonald, Boston Prof. Frank Talty (UMass Lowell), Writer Michael Patrick MacDonald, Globe Columnist Kevin Cullen and Sister Lena Deevy (Director Boston Globe Columnist Kevin Cullen Sister Lena Deevy (Director Emeritus, IIIC Boston) Emeritus Boston) and writer and broadcaster Frank Galligan. Day 2 Opening Day 2 of the conference, Chairman of the Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership, Cllr. Dessie Larkin noted the links that the county has built up with its Diaspora world-wide thanks to the Peace III Partnership and Donegal Diaspora Project.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 4 News DONEGAL-IRISH DIASPORA CONFERENCE
Panel 1: Educational Links Chair Paul Hannigan, President of the LYIT, noted how the LYIT has worked closely with the County Council on a number of initiatives and the LYIT’s desire to see these initiatives brought forward for the future development of the LYIT and Donegal. Prof. Frank Talty detailed the educational partnerships that have developed between the University of Massachusetts in Lowell and Irish universities. He detailed how this had been done through a number of business, research and cultural collaborations. Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’ Flaherty then discussed a number of American policy initiatives which have encouraged American companies to invest in the North-West region. He noted how these policies were crucial in an effort to continue to underpin the Irish Peace Process and maintain community development. He also detailed how American companies have benefited from investment in the North-West region.
Left to Right: Prof. Frank Talty (UMass Lowell), Paul Hannigan Massachusetts State Representative Eugene O’Flaherty. (LYIT), and Chairman of the Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Cllr. Dessie Larkin. Panel 2: Present Day perspectives on the Diaspora Chair Michael O’hEanaigh, Director of Service for Donegal County Council, noted the links and relationships that have already been built up between Donegal and the Diaspora and stressed how the county is keen to see these sustained and developed for mutual benefit. Michael Patrick MacDonald discussed his experience of g rowing up in an Irish-American neighbourhood in South Boston. Exploring the Changing Face of the Irish Diaspora, Kevin Cullen explored how the experience of Irish immigrants in Boston has changed since the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York, detailing how this has impacted on the social and cultural landscape of Boston.
Professor Frank Talty (UMass Lowell) enjoying the sunshine during Left to Right: Boston Globe Columnist Kevin Cullen and Writer the conference Michael Patrick MacDonald.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 5 News CIVIC RECEPTIONS
Civic Reception honours Pat (Paddy) Crerand Mr Pat (Paddy) Crerand was honoured at a civic reception on the 7th June in recognition of his sporting achievements over the years with teams like Celtic and Manchester United, as well as his long career in radio and television broadcasting.
Pat Crerand was born to Irish immigrants in Glasgow in 1939. His father was Michael Crerand from Newtownstewart and his mother was Sarah ‘Tim’ Boyle from Gweedore where he spent much of his childhood. He married Noreen Ferry and they have three children, Patrick, Lorraine and Danny.
After six years at Celtic (120 appearances, 5 goals), he signed for Manchester United on 6 February 1963, making his Paddy Crerand pictured with County Manager Seamus debut against Blackpool. He helped United to the league Neely at the civic reception held in his honour championship in 1965 and 1967 and won winners’ medals in the 1963 FA Cup Final and 1968 European Cup Final. Mr. Crerand was joined by his family and invited guests at this He retired from playing in 1971, having appeared in 401 games, special event. scoring 19 goals for United. Today, he appears regularly on MUTV, Manchester United’s television channel, as a co- reserved exclusively for those on whom the Freedom of the commentator as well as appearing as a pundit on the phone-in County is conferred. show ‘The Paddy Crerand Show”.
Donegal County Council host civic reception to honour Donegal woman Lord Provost of Glasgow. Cllr. Sadie Docherty a woman with strong “Cllr Sadie Docherty is a wonderful ambassador for Donegal family roots in West Donegal, who holds the and is always positive and proud of her connections to our prestigious role of Lord Provost of Glasgow, county”. was honoured with a Civic on the 7th May 2013. She is only the fourth woman in history to hold the position of Lord Provost of Glasgow since the year 1450. The Lord Provost is also Lord-Lieutenant of Glasgow, and therefore the Queen’s official representative in the City.
Cllr. Sadie Docherty, whose father came from Carrickataskin in Gweedore and immigrated to Scotland in the mid 1950’s, was first elected as a Labour Councillor in 2007. Speaking of her Donegal connections the Lord Provost has said ‘I am proud of my Donegal lineage. Both my parents and grandparents are from Gweedore which is a wonderful part of the world and my husband, Willie and I remain regular visitors.’ Cllr Sadie Docherty, Lord Provost, pictured with her family and The Mayor of Donegal Cllr. Frank McBrearty Jnr is delighted to elected member at the Civic Reception be in a position to honour the Lord Provost on this occasion.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 6 News CIVIC RECEPTIONS
FREEDOM OF COUNTY BESTOWED ON PATSY MCGONAGLE Patsy McGonagle was accorded the county’s highest honour at a Civic Reception hosted in his honour by the Mayor and members of Donegal County Council on the 14th June 2013. Patsy was joined by his family and invited guests at the special event to confer the Freedom of County Donegal in recognition of his achievements and his massive contribution to athletics at a local, national and international level.
Patsy has served as a Director and as Athletics Chair at Finn Valley Athletics Club for many years, inspiring and encouraging countless people within his work. He is also known for his well publicised work with the Irish Olympic team serving as the Athletics Irish Team Manager during the Patsy McGonagle pictured with family members and London 2012 games and the Irish Track and Field Manager at former Mayor Frank McBrearty the Sydney and Beijing Olympic Games.
Mayor of Donegal, Cllr. Frank McBrearty Jnr is delighted to be sport and athletics, but for his own local community is a real in a position to host this event saying “I am delighted that one inspiration to us all”. of my final acts in my term as Mayor of the County of Donegal Patsy will be the sixth recipient of a badge and pin specially will be to confer this tremendous honour on Patsy McGonagle commissioned by the Council. The badge (and lapel pin) is in recognition of his great achievements and contribution to reserved exclusively for those on whom the Freedom of the athletics. His dedication, energy and passion for, not only County is conferred.
Civic Reception honours Donegal Woman World Kickboxing Champion Natalie McCarron Carrigans native Natalie McCarron created history by becoming the first ever Irish Lady Professional Kickboxing Champion of the World by winning the ISKA Featherweight title. Natalie was honoured at a civic reception in the County House Lifford in late April in recognition of her sporting achievements.. Natalie was joined by her management, trainer Paddy Toland, and invited guests, at this special event that recognised the wonderful achievements of this Donegal woman in sport.
The former Mayor of Donegal Cllr. Frank McBrearty Jnr was delighted to be honouring Natalie for her outstanding achievements at the civic reception. “Natalie has reached the highest levels in her chosen sport and it is a great honour for Natalie McCarron pictured with County Manager Seamus Neely, me and the elected members of Donegal County Council to have former Mayor Frank McBrearty and trainer Paddy Toland. the opportunity to acknowledge her achievements with this Civic Reception”.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 7 RE-OPENING OF DONEGAL CRAFT VILLAGE AND News BROCHURE LAUNCH BY DONEGAL COUNTY COUNCIL
The Launch of the new brochure and an The Mayor Councillor Frank McBrearty stated: ‘This was another positive economic development supporting the small business official re-opening of the Donegal Craft sector in South Donegal where the Councillors are pleased to be Village took place in the Craft Village taken the lead role with supporting the craft industry’. courtyard, Lurganboy, Donegal Town on As initially intended, all tenants were back in their premises Thursday morning (May 9th). The event, and open again for business on Friday, 8th March 2013. In the recognition of these major improvements, Donegal County Council hosted by the Mayor Councillor Frank has also commissioned a new brochure that will be available McBrearty and Donegal County Manager, Mr. in both – printed and PDF format. The brochure features all six artists: Claire O’Presco – Handweaving, McGonigle Glass, Michael Seamus Neely, was attended by the Elected Griffin – Raw Studio, Niall Bruton – Jewellery & Sculpture, Johnny Members, public figures; staff involved in the McCabe – Painting Artist, a new addition to the Craft Village since refurbishment project, contractors as well as 2012 – Sandrine Salvador – ‘The Enchanted Earth’ Ceramics, as well as ‘Aroma’ Coffee Shop & Mini Bakery – Tom Dooley and the Craft Village tenants. Arturo de Alba.
The Craft Village was constructed in 1986 and has been since very Donegal County Manager, Mr. Seamus Neely: ‘This re-launch is popular amongst the locals, as well as the tourists. a great opportunity to refresh the profile of the Craft Village that will add to the tourism product our County has on offer. Donegal The refurbishment works commissioned by Donegal County County Council will be strongly involved in the marketing activities Council was put out to tender in November 2012. It has been agreed promoting the Craft Village as part of the Donegal Tourism Ltd that the tenants would temporarily cease trading and vacate their marketing campaign. The centre will also be cross-promoted on premises for the period of the reroofing works. The work started the new tourism website govisitdonegal.com, supported by the on site on Monday 7th January 2013 and the contractors were social media channels’. appointed to vacate the site by 8th March 2013. During this period the buildings remained closed for its usual business. Information on the Donegal Craft Village is also available on: www.donegalcraftvillage.com The renovation works involved the removal and disposal of the existing pitch roof coverings and the construction of a new For further information, please contact: insulated panel roof to all the units. Remedial and replacement Anne Marie Conlon, tel. 074-91 72207 works were also carried out to decayed timber, rain water drainage, Or email: [email protected] fascias, barges, flashings, chimneys and parapets.
Co. Manager Seamus Neely-taking weaving lessons under the l Kelly, Mayor Frank McBrearty, watchful eye of Clare O’Presco. Michael Kelly, Contractor for the Craft Village and Cllr Sean McEniff. Photo ‘Gabrielle’s Diary’ Donegal Post Photo ‘Gabrielle’s Diary’ Donegal Post
Donegal Community in Touch Page 8 News Donegal TV Launch To coincide with the Year of the Gathering, Donegal TV broadcast four 30 minute a number of stakeholders from the Tourism, pilot programmes on Thursday evenings Community, Education and Public Sectors in throughout April 2013 at 7pm on the Sky received and attracted audiences of over Donegal, supported the launch of Donegal TV Information Channel, which were available 100,000 viewers. (based at the CoLab in Letterkenny Institute online and also to viewers of Sky. The of Technology) in April 2013. The initiative programmes featured Donegal people at home Donegal TV plans to run another series of was led by Paul McLoone, former Manager of and abroad, tourism locations in Donegal, programmes in autumn 2013. Fáilte Ireland NW, and Shane Wallace, MD of and special programmes on Letterkenny and Visit http://www.donegaltv.ie/ Wallace Media. Ballyshannon. The programmes were well for further information. Busy summer for Donegal Gathering As the year of the Gathering approaches the and our Donegal Diaspora worldwide are up to date with what’s happening around halfway stage and summer has already given at the heart of the success of the Donegal the county and to shorten the distances us some teasers as to what we might hope Gathering. between those who avail of this service to expect, the Donegal Gathering is really The connectivity that is at the heart of whether you are in Bangkok or Bundoran. beginning to blossom and bloom. With over The Gathering, has been further embellished Perhaps you might reach out through your 170 exciting Gathering events on our Calendar in Donegal through the establishment own international network of friends, family, of Events, the majority of these events will be of our very own dedicated website. colleagues or people that you are connected taking place throughout the summer months. You can follow the Events Calendar on to via social media, to invite them to visit the The diversity and variety of these events www.donegalgathering.com to plan how you county of your forefathers and to experience must be seen to be believed, with nearly all can connect to the Donegal worldwide family some world renowned Donegal hospitality. of the gatherings being community-based, and plan your visit around some of the many grass roots initiatives that demonstrate the gatherings and events that provide something positivity and enthusiasm of the people from for every visitor. This user-friendly and this region. Our community groups at home highly interactive website allows you to keep The Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award 2013 The second conferral of the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora, was the worthy recipient of the Diaspora Award will take place on the 20thth inaugural Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award September in Buncrana. This award will be in 2012 which was presented to him by Mrs presented to a member of the worldwide Irish Pat Hume. There will be a range of events Diaspora, in recognition of the success and happening on September 20th and 21st for achievement attained in their particular field. the second Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award, Buncrana Town Council and Donegal Town including the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Council will announce the name of the 2013 conference and local Schools Arts and Essay recipient of the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora competition display. Award at a press reception before the end For further information visit: of July . Niall O’Dowd, editor of the Irish http://donegaldiasporaaward.ie/ Voice and a prominent member of the Irish
Hugo and Carmen O’Neill pictured at the Feile Grianan Ailigh-Solstice Festival at An Grianan of Aileach Fort on the 22nd June. The O’Neill’s were welcomed by former Mayor Cllr Frank McBrearty, Michael O’hEanaigh, Niall O’Dowd, 2012 Recipient of the Donegal County Council and Kevin O’Connor, Donegal County Council. Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award
Donegal Community in Touch Page 9 Donegal Business THE DONEGAL FOOD STRATEGY Putting Donegal on the Food Map
Following the launch of the Donegal Food Strategy last July, the Donegal County Enterprise Board (DCEB) has been actively working with a wide range of stakeholders from the food sector in Donegal to drive awareness of the economic potential of food to our county.
The core objective of the food strategy is to act as a central Chef Kelan McMichael shares his experience of working platform for establishing Donegal as a “food county” – a with local produce as he prepares Kerrykeel Dexter place with a vibrant food culture and food economy. The Beef which he prepared using Kinnegar Brewing Devils Backbone Beer. Donegal County Enterprise Board offers training and business development support to new start up’s, as well as established food businesses. A recent event which was organised as part of initiative - The Donegal Food Network, involved a lunch which was hosted by Chef Keelan of Rathmullan House and Rick LeVert of Kinnegar Brewing. Donegal Food Ambassador and award winning chef - Gary O’Hanlon, was on hand to support the event and offered his personal experience of how he works with local suppliers and how he feels it has great benefits both socially and commercially. As we continue to develop the food sector in Donegal and the wider appreciation of what Donegal food has to offer a number of other events are in the diary – :: Craft Beer & Food Masterclass – 16th July 2013 :: A Taste of Donegal Festival – 23rd to 25th August 2013. The Food Coast will be hosting new artisan producers at the festival. In the Greenhouse: Left to right, Gary O’Hanlon - Donegal Food Ambassador, Kemal Scarpellio – The SlowFoodCo., :: Donegal Chowder Cook Off – 24th August (Winner will Declan McConnelough-The Haven Smokehouse, Kelan represent Donegal at the National Chowder Cook off in McMichael – Head Chef Rathmullan House, Thomas Kinsale 2014) Hughes – Donegal Rapeseed Oil, Sam & Cathy Dill – The Dill Family Farm, Ursula Donnelly – Donegal County :: The Donegal Food Network – 24th September 2013. Hosted by Enterprise Board, Rick LeVert – Kinnegar Brewing, Charlie Gavin O’Rourke of Harvey’s Point Hotel. Doherty – Doherty Potatoes and Eve – Anne McCarron – For further information email [email protected] The Food Coast.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 10 Donegal Business
DONEGAL CONTINUES TO DEVELOP LINKS INTERNATIONALLY Executives from Donegal information, agriculture and livestock Recent meetings have agreed to explore, and equipment manufacturing. The area inter alia, twinning opportunities County Council recently through representatives based in Dublin between the two areas at a political level met with representatives over the past year been developing links and also to assess export opportunities of Jilin Province, North with Donegal, particularly through for businesses based in Donegal and Letterkenny Institute of Technology and which could conceivably take advantage Eastern China to explore their CoLab with representatives from of an Irish Food Showroom which is opportunities across Letterkenny Institute of Technology being established as part of a free trade cultural, education, political visiting China in this regard. zone area in Shanghai. The President of Zhida International, If any business in Donegal feels that and economic links. which is a Dublin based company with they may have an interest in exploring the objective of developing Chinese this area further please contact the Jilin Province has an area of some and Irish links, Ms. Wynne Liu has Community & Enterprise Division of 187,000sq. km, a population of 27million been working extensively with Donegal Donegal County Council at County and an industrial base ranging representatives over the past period of House, Lifford by emailing Aideen across automotive, petro-chemical, time, with a view to developing links Doherty at: agricultural, products, food processing, across areas of common interest. [email protected] pharmaceutical, electronics and
Donegal Restaurants flying the flag at the recent Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI) Awards. At the recent RAI awards there was a Wherever you are in the world you can keep up to date with The Food Coast on Twitter @Donegal-Food. It would be great to strong Donegal representation at the hear about the Donegal Food Treasures you come across as they finalists in Dublin on the June 10th. Two make their way around the globe. We can also share the latest national awards made their way back to news if you subscribe to our quarterly newsletter by emailing your details to [email protected] Donegal following the prestigious event. Castlemurray House of St. Johns Point was awarded the Best Sustainable Restaurant of the Year attributed to standing out as demonstrating best practice in sustainability.
While Sargasso of Letterkenny was awarded the national Bord Bia Just Ask Restaurant 2013 award. The Just Ask campaign aims to encourage the public to ask when eating out to look for information on where the food comes from and to encourage chefs to provide this information on their menus. The Donegal Food Ambassador – Gary O’Hanlon a native of Donegal is now head chef with Viewmont House in Longford, was also celebrating with his Donegal peers when he was awarded the Best Chef in Leinster 2013. Well done to all on helping to put Donegal on the Food Map! Castlemurray House of St.Johns Point was awarded the Best Donegal Food on Twitter: @Donegal_food Sustainable Restaurant of the Year
Donegal Community in Touch Page 11 education & learning
Visit by Boston Businessman Launch of Health to Letterkenny Institute of Innovation Corridor Technology (LYIT’s) CoLab On 9 May, John Andy Bonar, Head of Development, represented Letterkenny Institute of Technology at the Boston businessman John Cullinane and met with CoLab launch of the Health Innovation Corridor by MEP Martina staff and promoters of business located at CoLab. He and Anderson in Derry. his colleague, Frank Costello, are pictured here with LYIT The initiative is based on the Massachusetts model of personnel and representatives of CoLab client businesses. connected healthcare and involves linking together higher Mayor of Donegal, Cllr Frank McBrearty; senior Donegal education institutions, research institutes, hospitals and County Council officials; Steve Orr, Northern Ireland Science industrial partners across the North West Region from Park; and Willie McCarter, formerly Chairman of IFI, also Derry, Donegal and Sligo. attended the meeting which was organised in the context of the Donegal Diaspora Project. Newcastle Business School (NBS)/Doctor of Business Mr Cullinane is President of The Cullinane Group Inc, and was founder of Cullinet Software Inc, one of the first Administration (DBA) companies to specialise in computer software products, Michael Margey, Head of School of Business at Letterkenny have a public offering, and be listed on the New York Stock Institute of Technology (LYIT), has initiated a strategic Exchange. As a result, Mr Cullinane was named three partnership between Newcastle Business School in times as The Wall Street Transcript’s CEO of the Year in the Northumbria University and the School of Business at LYIT, involving bringing the first ever Level 10 Doctoral computer software products industry. Programme to the North West Region. The DBA programme is expected to commence in October and will be part-delivered at LYIT, with appropriately qualified staff of the School of Business also co-supervising the NBS Doctoral students. On 21 May Professors Sandra Corlett and Teresa Waring delivered NBS Research Supervisor Training to LYIT staff and met with 10 potential DBA candidates.
Back row, left to right: John Andy Bonar, LYIT; Frank Costello, Costello & Associates; Peter Campbell, Lone Star State; Ian Harkin, Arklu; Caitlín Uí Chochláin, Donegal County Council; Thomas Cullen, Pocket Heroes; Edwin Masterson, IPR Matrix; Charlie Boyle; Service Sells; David O’Neill, Uppidee; and Aaron Nepgen, final year Design student. Middle, left to right: Patsy Donaghy, LYIT; Grace Ann McGarvey, Grace Ann Consultancy; Aideen McCarter; Steve Orr, NISP; Michael Margey, LYIT; Willie McCarter; and Michael Heaney, Donegal County Council. Front, left to right: Donna Maskery, Donegal County Council; Seamus Neely, County Manager, Donegal County Council; Paul Hannigan, LYIT; John Visit by Notre Dame University, Maryland, USA to Letterkenny Cullinane; Cllr Frank McBrearty, Mayor of Donegal; Henry McGarvey, LYIT Institute of Technology Governing Body Chairman; and Anne Tuohy, Room Junkie. Notre Dame Maryland group at their welcome dinner at Castle [Photo Clive Wasson] Grove on Friday, 15 March.
Donegal Community in Touch Page 12 education & learning Busy July in Gleann Cholm Cille As well as hosting a busy schedule of Oideas Gael courses, Gleann Cholm Cille offers numerous other events this summer including the launch of Patrick McGinley’s latest novel and also the unveiling of an innovative heritage project led by Associate Howard Goldbaum of The Reynold’s School of Journalism, University of Nevada at Reno. ‘Cold Spring’ Glen born author Patrick McGinley has lived most of his life in southern England but has never lost contact with hi family and neighbours in Cill Áthnaid, Gleann Cholm Cille. His best known novel ‘Bogmail’ has just been reprinted and was made into a successful three-part BBC series called ‘Murder in Eden’, recently shown again on TG4. Last year his memoir, ‘That Unearthly Valley’ was a popular book choice nationally and internationally. His latest novel ‘Cold Spring’ is a tale of survival in a remote valley close to home. The book will be launched by writer and critic Tony Glavin in Foras Cultúir Uladh on Thursday 11th July. Beidh fáilte romhat! Voices from the Dawn is an innovative technological gem presenting the rich heritage of Ireland in a novel and exciting way. Associate Professor Howard Goldbaum has been persuaded to launch his major research undertaking in Glencolmcille on Tuesday 16th July. Those interested in learning about ad viewing our rich archaeological and pilgrimage sites (including a number from County Donegal can have a preview by visiting www.voicesfromthedawn.com Further information on these events and other activities call Oideas Gael at: 074 97 30248 or email: [email protected]
Massachusetts Senate President visits Donegal
On Friday, 10 May, a high level delegation from the State of Massachusetts visited the CoLab at Letterkenny Institute of Technology. The delegation was led by Therese Murray, President of the Senate of the State of Massachusetts, and consisted of her senior advisors and representatives from University of Massachusetts, Mass Life Sciences Institute and Mass Technology Collaborative. This visit organised in the context of the Donegal Diaspora Project is part of the ongoing development of enterprise for mutual benefit between Donegal and Massachusetts. Massachusetts Delegation Visit to LYIT
Donegal Community in Touch Page 13 Social & cultural
Unpacking Donegal’s Cultural Baggage The County Donegal Heritage Office, Donegal County Council and the County Donegal Heritage Forum in partnership with The Heritage Council will be commissioning the research and publication of a booklet on the cultural migration and material culture of Donegal communities abroad as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan. The booklet will focus on selected historical migration patterns to America, Canada, Scotland, England, Europe and/ or Australia but the emphasis will be on documenting and illustrating case studies involving the material culture of Donegal people abroad.
We would like your help in identifying Emigrants on board a tender ship (1930s) Image courtesy of NI Libraries, the material heritage of Donegal Bigger & MacDonald Collection communities abroad. This may include: • heritage objects (such as suitcases and their contents, small graveyard inscriptions which refer to Donegal); and/or household items or tools) that people took with them at the • material evidence of the retention of the Irish language by time of their migration; Donegal immigrant communities in their adopted land. • emigrant letters that people sent back home; If you have any information that you think might be useful or • the material imprint that immigrant Donegal communities if you would like to be considered as one of the contributing left on the landscapes of their adopted homeplaces (such writers to the booklet, please email [email protected] or as houses similar to those back in Donegal, placenames or by telephone at: 00353 749172576 as soon as possible.
Scholarship in Memory of Boston Academic – Margo Nason The family and friends of Margo Nason and culture of this beautiful corner of Applicants for the scholarship are offering a scholarship in her memory Donegal. She loved being part of the should submit a 100 word request for to a participant in the Oideas Gael sean-nós singing class with Gearóidín consideration to Edith Wyndham at Summer School (July 20-27) for Irish Bhreathnach, a class which is unique in [email protected] Language Study and Sean-Nós Singing. Ireland and the world. This scholarship, The scholarship covers fees for the in Margo’s memory, aims to give someone week of classes as well as self-catering the opportunity to discover and enjoy the accommodation in a house nearby. classes and experiences which meant so Application for the scholarship is open to much to her. Margo was born Margaret anyone who is studying Irish, is familiar Deil Wilson on July 17, 1941, in New with sean-nós singing and is interested in Jersey, USA. Her academic credentials learning some of these traditional songs were always top-notch; she was in Irish from one of the best sean-nós Salutorian of her class at Millburn High singers in the world. School, double-majored in Psychology and Philosophy at Antioch College in Margo Nason spent many summers at Ohio, and earned her PhD in Psychology Oideas Gael, immersed in the language The late Margo Nason at Harvard University
Donegal Community in Touch Page 14 Community Links The Gathering Cultural Services Family History Roadshow, Lifford As part of the celebrations for The Gathering The other roadshows will take place later 2013, Cultural Services Division of Donegal this year, in venues around the County. The County Council is organising a series of family next roadshow is planned for Central Library, history roadshows, on the theme of ‘How to Letterkenny during Heritage Week in late Research Your Family History’. The County August. All events will be well publicised in Museum, Library and Archives Services are the media in advance. providing guidance to the public on the wide The Library Service is currently developing variety of sources available to those interested a guide to the genealogy resources available in researching their own family history. from Library Services, Archives and Museum. Admission to all roadshows is free. This guide will be available in August and The first roadshow was held on Tuesday 11th is part of the Hands of History project June in the Training Room, County House, supported by the European Union’s European Lifford. Niamh Brennan, Una Mathewson Regional Development Fund, through the and Caroline Carr provided demonstrations EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation on the use of the online sources such as 1901 managed for the Special EU Programmes and 1911 Census and Griffith’s Valuation, and Body by Donegal County Council. advice was given on tracing family history For further information contact Niamh Family History Roadshow using the internet’s many resources. Brennan by email: [email protected] NYPD footballers win Breezy Point Cup
NYPD Football Team, Breezy Point Cup Champions 2013
The New York Police Department Among the many stars of the tournament The NYPD football club was set up to help Gaelic Football Club had a for the side were club President, Peter with various charities. Their next major tremendous weekend, taking home McCormack, from Ballybofey, County fundraiser is the annual challenge game Donegal, and his daughter Hanna, Vinny against the FDNY on Friday June 28th, 6 pm, honors in the Breezy Point Corn Mannion, from Fairymount, County at Gaelic Park in the Bronx. The money raised Cois Farraige Cup competition; a Roscommon and his 1 son Gavin and Captain that evening will go towards TJ Cunningham, charity event set up to help rebuild of the victorious side, Phil Birmingham. a young child in Ireland who travelled to Breezy Point after the devastation The “Boys in Blue” made it to the final America for treatment for medical ailments. of Superstorm Sandy in 2012. undefeated, under the leadership of The NYPD is making a trip to Dublin and Donegal in October 2013, as part of the 2013 The NYPD GFC were victors in Bainisteoir Paul Hurley, from Fingal, County Dublin, and his assistant, Ira Goldman (a Gathering when several matches and charity the Junior Football competition, events are planned. Donegal man from his mother’s family). They defeating Manhattan Gaels in the did a wonderful job keeping the team focused To follow the NYPD, check out their website, final, on a scoreline of 1-7 to 1-03. for several hours during this tournament. www.nypdgaelicfootball.org
Donegal Community in Touch Page 15 Community Links
Global Diaspora Forum held in Dublin
The Global Diaspora Forum was held in Dublin on the 14th and 15th of May 2013, providing a Kingsley Aikins, former Chief Executive of the Worldwide Ireland platform to discuss and debate how migration Funds was co-chairperson of the Forum sharing his experience and and connectivity affect us all. knowledge in working with the global Irish community. The Business Editor of the Economist Robert Guest noted the ‘Diaspora Now in its third year the European strand of the two day forum networks are much more tightly connected to each other which in Dublin which was co-hosted with Washington, is an initiative has profound consequences for the world…’. Importantly national begun by former US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton to celebrate governments continue to recognise the value and potential of our diaspora communities working in association with the United diaspora, making active efforts to identify and connect with these States Department of State, United States Agency for International highly skilled individuals and to link them to national economic Development. development projects. Monreagh Ulster Scots Centre host visit from East Tennessee University The Monreagh Ulster Scots Centre at Carrigans in Appalachian Studies, the only university degree of its kind in the played host, recently, to a team of students and world. lecturers from East Tennessee University on an The group were greeted by the Centre Manager and staff of Monreagh educational field trip to the North West. Ulster Scots Centre, and by the Director of Community, Culture and Planning at Donegal County Council, Michael O’Eanaigh. Local man The students were interested in finding out more about the rich, and chairperson of the Centre, Stewart Buchanan, was also on hand cultural heritage of the Lagan area of East Donegal, particularly to provide some much appreciated musical accompaniment, as the the musical, linguistic and industrial influences of a region that is students performed on fiddles, whilst others demonstrated their renowned for its outstanding beauty of lush, green, fertile land, traditional dancing talents. You can see the visit for yourself at our known in former times as the Lowlands of Donegal. The students are youtube channel: youtube.com/monreaghcentre studying traditional American music as part of an honours degree
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For further information on this e-zine Maria Ferguson Roisin McBride or on the Donegal Diaspora Project, Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] please contact: /maria. [email protected] Tel: +353 (0) 74 9172461 Tel: +353 (0)74 97 24466 Donegal Community in Touch Page 16