Author name: highlandnews

Old Garda Station in Malin Town to be turned into social housing

The old Garda Station in Malin Town is to be redeveloped into a social housing development. Donegal County Council yesterday, granted approval to carry out the works. The development will see the former 2 storey Garda barracks and adjoining Garda accommodation turned into two three-bedroom, two storey dwellings. The plans, approved by the Council include

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‘The country still feels poor’ – Deputy Doherty reacts to Budget 2025

Donegal Deputy Pearse Doherty says despite today’s budget, the country still feels poor. The Government has today unveiled Budget 2025. It’s the biggest budget in the history of the State including €8.3 billion in extra spending and tax cuts. Responding to the Government’s budget, the Sinn Fein Finance Spokesperson in the Dail says it fails

‘The country still feels poor’ – Deputy Doherty reacts to Budget 2025 Read More »

Gardai renew appeal for information regarding Mountcharles burglaries in August

Gardai have renewed their appeal for information in relation to two burglaries that occurred in the area of Drumconnor, Mountcharles in the early hours of Monday the 12th of August. The two businesses in question, a garage and a car breakers are located in close proximity to one another. A large amount of ‘Snap On’

Gardai renew appeal for information regarding Mountcharles burglaries in August Read More »

Gardai investigate criminal damage to business premises in Carndonagh

Gardaí are appealing for information in relation to an incident of criminal damage at The Diamond, Carndonagh between 6pm on Tuesday evening last the 24th of September,  and  9am on the Wednesday. A rear window of a business premises was smashed, but no entry was gained to the building. We appeal to anybody who may

Gardai investigate criminal damage to business premises in Carndonagh Read More »

Update – Doherty hopeful of progress ahead of Ard Scoil Mhuire site protest

A protest is taking place this afternoon at the site of the redevelopment of Ard Scoil Mhuire in Gaoth Dobhair. It had been indicated that the development would include a five bedroom assisted living facility for adults with intellectual disabilities, but local Cllr Michael Cholm MacGiolla Easbuig says his understanding is that element of the

Update – Doherty hopeful of progress ahead of Ard Scoil Mhuire site protest Read More »

Gardaí issue security advice to Donegal business oweners

Gardaí have issued advice to Donegal businesses to enable them to detect and prevent Organised Retail Crime. They visited a number of business premises across the county last week as part of Operation Táirge. Business premises require the following basic measures: Intruder alarm systems should only be installed by persons who operate from an established

Gardaí issue security advice to Donegal business oweners Read More »

Repair works to cause water disruptions to Manorcunningham

Mains repair works may cause supply disruptions in Manorcunningham tomorrow. Works are scheduled to take place from 9am until 5pm on tomorrow, October 2nd. Uisce Eireann says during this time, homes and businesses in Manorcunningham Village, Errity and surrounding areas may be impacted by reduced water pressure or supply interruptions. It is recommended that those

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100% Redress Party calls for dedicated Defective Concrete Block Strategic Policy Committee

The 100% Redress Party has called for a dedicated Defective Concrete Block Strategic Policy Committee. Donegal County Council’s Defective Concrete Block Grant Committee is already in existence and a number of Councillors have argued that that is the optimum way through which issues can be raised and addressed. However, the 100% Redress Party believes an

100% Redress Party calls for dedicated Defective Concrete Block Strategic Policy Committee Read More »

New laws proposed to clamp down on sale and distribution of smoky fuel

New laws are being proposed to help clamp down on the sale and distributing of smoky fuel. Local authorities responsible for policing the current regulations have called for greater enforcement powers. According to the Irish Independent, new legislation being proposed would allow council staff to top vehicles, confiscate unapproved fuels, and, in some cases, raid

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HSE Winter Vaccination Programme for at-risk groups begins today

The HSE’s annual free Winter Vaccination Programme for at-risk groups starts today. Those aged over 60, healthcare workers, pregnant women, anyone with a long-term health condition, and children aged between two and 17 are eligible for a free vaccine at their local pharmacy or GP. The HSE is also urging the public to avail of

HSE Winter Vaccination Programme for at-risk groups begins today Read More »

Ann Quinn to open ‘Northern Light’ exhibition this Saturday

Artist Ann Quinn will open her mid-career retrospective exhibition ‘Northern Light’ at the Regional Cultural Centre in Letterkenny this Saturday. This exhibition, curated by Daniel Nelis, showcases 15 years of Quinn’s artistic practice, offering an intimate exploration of her deep connection with the landscapes and communities she cherishes. Raised on a dairy farm in East

Ann Quinn to open ‘Northern Light’ exhibition this Saturday Read More »

New study shows inner leaf sulphate attack is happening, but at a slower rate

A comprehensive study into cement and concrete has show the extent the which the level of deterioration of inner leaf and foundations is slower than outer leaf. The study confirms that internal sulfate attack, brought on by oxidised pyrrhotite is the cause of failure in Donegal homes. As controversy continues with regards to the level

New study shows inner leaf sulphate attack is happening, but at a slower rate Read More »

Minister says government will support hospitality sector as calls for VAT reduction intensify

The Irish Tourism Industry Confederation is renewing its call for the 9 per cent VAT rate to be restored in Budget 2025. A survey by Fáilte Ireland found 64 per cent of hospitality businesses expect profitability to fall this year. Several politicians locally and nationally are supporting the call, including Donegal Fine Gael Candidate John McNulty. Eoghan

Minister says government will support hospitality sector as calls for VAT reduction intensify Read More »

Four recycling centres reverting to winter hours in Derry and Strabane

Derry City and Strabane District Council has confirmed that four of its 11 Recycling Centres will revert to winter opening hours from today. Eglinton, Park and Plumbridge Recycling Centres will open from 10am to 5pm on Mondays, 9.30am to 5pm from Tuesday to Friday and will remain closed on Saturday and Sundays. Newtownstewart Recycling Centre

Four recycling centres reverting to winter hours in Derry and Strabane Read More »

People need to be given the option to pay with cash – Pringle

A Donegal TD says moves towards cashless venues and businesses severely disadvantage some people more than others, and government must ensure that people are given a choice to pay in cash. Supporting an access to cash bill which is going through the Dáil, Deputy Thomas Pringle says easy access to your money, through whatever means,

People need to be given the option to pay with cash – Pringle Read More »

Simon Communities say tomorrow’s budget will be crucial if housing crisis is to be addressed

The Simon Community is calling for emergency funding to tackle rising homeless rates in the Budget. The charity is asking the Government to increase funding for social housing, increase the housing assistance scheme and double 2023’s funding for homeless prevention. 14,486 people were registered as homeless at the end of last month, according to the

Simon Communities say tomorrow’s budget will be crucial if housing crisis is to be addressed Read More »

Cost of Living package being finalised ahead of tomorrow’s budget

A 2 billion euro cost of living package is being finalised by the Government. Final preparations are being made ahead of the Budget announcement tomorrow. Two double payments of child benefit, possibly before the end of the year, are on the cards. Increases in welfare rates including the State Pension are also expected. Fees for

Cost of Living package being finalised ahead of tomorrow’s budget Read More »

Housing Adaption Grant limits and income thresholds to be increased

Proposed increases in the Housing Adaptation Grant limits and income thresholds have been described as lifelines for many families in Donegal by Agriculture and Marine Minister, Charlie McConalogue. Grant limits will rise by over 30% and income thresholds by 25%, with the new rates set to be in place in early 2025. At the weekend,

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Rathmullan to Ramelton road to close for three weeks due to essential maintenance

Due to essential road maintenance, the R-247 Rathmullan to Ramelton Road will close for three weeks from today until Friday 18th Oct from 8am to 6pm. Diversions will be in place via the L-1392-1/2 Moss Road to the R-245 Milford/Ramelton Road. Local access will still be available for access to residents and schools.

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Fears over Israeli ground invasion into Lebanon

There’s growing concern over an Israeli ground invasion into Lebanon. Israel says it struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon overnight, just a day after confirming it killed the group’s leader Hassan Nasrallah. The Lebanese health ministry says 11 people have been killed in the attacks. Sky’s Middle Eastern Correspondent Alistair Bunkall is in Northern Israel and

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Traffic delays expected on main A5 road between Victoria Bridge and Newtownstewart

Police in Derry and Strabane are advising motorists that delays of up to two hours may be expected due to a truck and tractor event. The main A5 on the Mulvin Road and Strabane Road between Victoria Bridge and Newtownstewart is currently affected. They are advising motorists to use alternative routes if possible as delays

Traffic delays expected on main A5 road between Victoria Bridge and Newtownstewart Read More »

Calls for “regional inequity” of neurology care services to be addressed in Budget

There are calls for “regional inequity” of neurological care services to be addressed in this week’s Budget announcement. The Neurological Alliance of Ireland – the national umbrella for over 30 neurological organisations – says access to care depends heavily on your location. Director of the alliance, Magdalen Rogers explains the aim of their pre-budget submission.

Calls for “regional inequity” of neurology care services to be addressed in Budget Read More »

Ireland not experiencing “economic bubble” ahead of Budget 2025

A leading economist is adamant that Ireland is not experiencing an economic bubble. It comes ahead of next week’s budget, which is expected to be a giveaway, with a government surplus of 25 billion euro. This contrasts sharply with the UK and other EU countries where belt tightening measures are being implemented. Chief Economist of

Ireland not experiencing “economic bubble” ahead of Budget 2025 Read More »

Irish homes revealed to throw out 220,000 tonnes of food each year

Today marks International Day of Food Waste Awareness, which highlights the problem of households binning excess food. The Environmental Protection Agency says Irish homes throw out around 220,000 tonnes of food each year. CEO of Global Action Plan Ireland, Hans Zomer, says it contributes significantly to global warming.

Irish homes revealed to throw out 220,000 tonnes of food each year Read More »

Mary Lou McDonald criticises Government handling of scoliosis crisis

The Government is under fire over the scoliosis crisis for children. The Sinn Fein Leader says it’s “a scandal” children with scoliosis and spina bifida are waiting years for operations. Speaking at her party’s Ard Fheis in Athlone last night, Mary Lou McDonald demanded the Taoiseach deliver treatment options for affected children without delay.

Mary Lou McDonald criticises Government handling of scoliosis crisis Read More »

MEP Barry Cowen calls for sustainable power generation and new funding stream for farmers

MEP Barry Cowen has highlighted the success of his candidacy and, while addressing a EU Parliament debate on impending commission appointments. Representing the Midlands North West, he specifically mentioned the new CAP agreement that rewards farmers, that brings certainty, simplification and a succession plan that finally aligns food production systems to environmental ambition and consumers

MEP Barry Cowen calls for sustainable power generation and new funding stream for farmers Read More »

XL Bully dogs sent to Sweden ahead of new legislation

Several XL Bully dogs from shelters across Ireland have had to “flee” for their lives. New legislation due to come into effect on October 1st will prohibit the breeding, selling and re-homing of the breed. A separate deadline of February 1st, 2025, will see unregistered XL Bullies euthanised. Co-founder of ‘WAG Rescue’ Brenda Fitzpatrick has

XL Bully dogs sent to Sweden ahead of new legislation Read More »

Man charged with drug and driving offences in Enniskillen

PSNI Detectives investigating a number of incidents in the Enniskillen area yesterday, have charged a 36 year old man with multiple offences. The alleged offences include blackmail, two counts of criminal damage, possession of a class A drug and a number of motoring offences. He is due to appear at Enniskillen Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.

Man charged with drug and driving offences in Enniskillen Read More »