Author name: highlandnews

Government must reconsider its reluctance to introduce universal energy supports – Kenny

A South Donegal TD says rather than introducing convoluted mathematical formulae to calculate fuel support levels for certain sectors, the government should be bringing down the cost of fuel and home heating oil across the board. Speaking in the Dail on a Labour motion calling for a mini-budget, Sinn Fein’s Martin Kenny told TDs the […]

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Palestine solidarity event scheduled for Inishowen

The Inishowen Palestine Solidarity Group are holding an event tomorrow, at Buncrana Cinema, to launch an Apartheid Free Zone in Buncrana and Inishowen. The event will include talks from figures such as Civil Rights Campaigner Bernadette McAliskey, founder of the Boycott, Divest and Sanction movement Omar Barghouti An Apartheid Free Zone is described as the

Palestine solidarity event scheduled for Inishowen Read More »

Detailed design work on Burtonport to Letterkenny Greenway could begin in early 2027

Members of Glenties Municipal District have been told that detailed design work could begin on the Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) to Letterkenny Greenway next year, but that will be dependent on funding. A preliminary indication of the preferred route corridor has been presented to members this week, with a more detailed options report to be

Detailed design work on Burtonport to Letterkenny Greenway could begin in early 2027 Read More »

New research into exercise support for pregnant women

A new cross-border research report has been published today, providing guidance for pregnant and postpartum women on engaging in physical activity. The report conducted by Ulster University and Atlantic Technological University found major gaps in physical activity support for women across Ireland. The research undertaken by Dr. Lizzy Deery and Dr. Maria Faulkner has revealed

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Minister Dooley invited to Magheraroarty concerning masterplan

Minister of State at the Department of the Marine, Timmy Dooley has been invited to visit Magheraroarty as efforts continue to progress plans for the area. The proposed masterplan, aimed at improving local amenities, was discussed at this week’s meeting of the Glenties Municipal District. Cllrs Denis McGee and Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig have

Minister Dooley invited to Magheraroarty concerning masterplan Read More »

Application for 60 social homes in Carndonagh raised in the Dáil

An application for 60 CALF-supported homes in Carndonagh has been raised in the Dáil. The Capital Advance Leasing Facility allows the Government to assist Approved Housing Bodies in buying or building new social housing units. Donegal TD Charles Ward says that 60 new units would be crucial to easing the housing crisis and for development

Application for 60 social homes in Carndonagh raised in the Dáil Read More »

Ballyshannon Community Hospital residents praised for their community spirit

Residents of Ballyshannon Community Hospital are being praised for their community spirit through a series of knitting initiatives. In the lead up to Easter, residents established a knitting club within the unit, producing over 300 handmade Easter chickens. These were used to raise funds for the Ballyshannon Community Hospital’s Patient Comfort Fund, directly benefiting residents

Ballyshannon Community Hospital residents praised for their community spirit Read More »

Role of ETBs highlighted as new five year Further Education and Training strategy is launched

A new five-year strategy has been launched for Further Education and Training in Ireland. The ‘Creating Futures’ strategy is designed to deliver skills in AI, digital, and green innovation. Over 230 thousand people received qualifications from SOLAS in 2025. Its Executive Director, Mary Liz Trant, says people are continuing to take up apprenticeships and further

Role of ETBs highlighted as new five year Further Education and Training strategy is launched Read More »

14 year old boy arrested in Derry bailed pending further enquiries

A 14-year-old boy arrested yesterday by police investigating disorder at the Nailors Row interface in Derry earlier this week has been bailed to allow for further enquiries to be conducted. The investigation to identify all those involved continues, and anyone with information, including dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, is being asked to contact police.

14 year old boy arrested in Derry bailed pending further enquiries Read More »

Durkan calls for better replacements for EU structural funds

The Northern Assembly has passed a motion this week lamenting the failure of the UK Government to put in place timely and adequate replacement funding arrangements after the loss of a number of EU funding streams. The motion also urges the Finance Minister to press Westminster to align the aims and funding objectives of the

Durkan calls for better replacements for EU structural funds Read More »

McClafferty seeks measures to restrict camper van parking on piers and beaches

A Glenties Cllr is asking for more measures to restrict camper vans from parking on piers and beaches. At a recent meeting of the Municipal District Cllr Michael McClafferty pointed out that camper vans are causing problems around parking. He says that neither locals nor tourists can use car parks raising one instance where a

McClafferty seeks measures to restrict camper van parking on piers and beaches Read More »

Funeral arrangements confirmed for young sportsman Lewis Kelly

Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for the much-loved young sportsman Lewis Kelly. Lewis is being remembered as someone loved by all who knew him. The schoolboy’s family include his parents Michelle and Hugh, his sister Zevagh, brothers Quinn and Regan and his girlfriend Darcey. Lewis’s remains will arrive at the Muff border this evening (Wednesday)

Funeral arrangements confirmed for young sportsman Lewis Kelly Read More »

Ward questions Taoiseach on DCB homeowners’ access to data

The Taoiseach has told the Dail he has no issues with engineers’ reports and other data being shared with defective concrete homeowners before they agree to a remediation determination on their home. In the Dail this afternoon, 100% Redress Deputy Charles Ward questioned the Taoiseach on the issue, saying that homeowners are being denied access

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New EU measures adopted for severe weather events

New EU rules will now allow countries to activate emergency support before severe weather strikes. Midlands North West MEP Ciarán Mullooly says his amendment, adopted today, means the EU Civil Protection Mechanism can be triggered in advance, allowing generators and other support to be deployed early. He says the move follows criticism of delays during

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INMO says over 65,000 admitted patients have been without beds at LUH since 2006

The INMO says since it began counting the number of admitted patients without beds in Irish hospitals, there have 65,674 on trollies or other inappropriate settings been in Letterkenny University Hospital, and 70,407 in Sligo. That’s a North West total of 136,081. The national figure was over 1.7 million. The INMO is calling for legislation

INMO says over 65,000 admitted patients have been without beds at LUH since 2006 Read More »

Almost €6m in school book funding for Donegal

The latest uptake figures of the Department of Education’s Free Book Scheme have been published. In Donegal, €1,521,680 in funding was allocated to primary education, benefitting 19,021 children in 172 schools. In secondary education, €4,276,861 in funding was allocated, helping 15,099 students in 29 schools. Welcoming the figures, Donegal Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher said

Almost €6m in school book funding for Donegal Read More »

Kimmins initiates new A5 consultation to run in tandem with legal proceedings

The North’s Infrastructure Minister has announced a public engagement process on the emerging route options for the upgrade of Section 1 of the A5 Western Transport Corridor between Newbuildings and Sion Mills. A preferred route for Section 1 was previously identified, but Minister Liz Kimmins says considering the passage of time and the findings of

Kimmins initiates new A5 consultation to run in tandem with legal proceedings Read More »

DCC urged to enforce rules regarding traditional shop fronts

The preservation of traditional shop fronts has been raised as a point of concern at a meeting of Glenties Municipal District. According to Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig, some businesses are not adhering to heritage policy when it comes to shop fronts. He says it is important for the Gaeltacht to maintain traditional shop

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Donegal born former garda facing a custodial sentence following fatal hit and run in 2024

A former garda will face sentencing next month for a hit and run which resulted in the death of a man two years ago. 28-year-old Michael Ball is pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death, and failing to remain at the scene and offer assistance following the collision. 28 year old Michael Ball originally from

Donegal born former garda facing a custodial sentence following fatal hit and run in 2024 Read More »

Almost 4,000 speed detections on Irish roads over the Bank Holiday weekend

Almost four thousand drivers were detected speeding during a policing operation for the bank holiday weekend. One of the detections being highlighted over the weekend is a driver caught doing 138km/h in a 100km/h zone on the R238 outside Buncrana. Two people died on the roads over that time, bringing the total number this year

Almost 4,000 speed detections on Irish roads over the Bank Holiday weekend Read More »

Glenties MD told of sewage on the streets in Falcarragh

Glenties Municipal District was told today that over the weekend, an incident occurred in Falcarragh, which reportedly resulted in sewage running onto the streets.​ Members claimed there’s been a lack of action to resolve the issue.​ Days after the first reports of sewage, residents are still said to be dealing with a horrendous smell in

Glenties MD told of sewage on the streets in Falcarragh Read More »

New Changing Places facility in Letterkenny was built by people with disabilities – Contractor

The opening of the new Changing Places facility in Letterkenny has been hailed as a statement of what people with disabilities can contribute to society. The main contractor on the project was AccessoLoo, a specialist company set up by Belfast based entrepreneur Michael Holden. He says the building was completed by workers who are themselves

New Changing Places facility in Letterkenny was built by people with disabilities – Contractor Read More »

Planned college fee cuts threatened by Department overspend

There may be no significant cut to college fees this year, despite the government’s plans to reduce them annually. It’s reported that the cuts could be scrapped over the ‘decision to levy’ ministers for overspending at the Department of Education. In response to a parliamentary question on college fee reductions last week, the Higher Education

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Buncrana Children’s Charity to rebrand in November

Buncrana Children’s Charity is to rebrand as “Inishowen’s Children’s Charity” ahead of its 10th Anniversary in November. The name change, expected to take place in the same month, will reflect the support it offers to families right across the peninsula. The charity will also launch a comprehensive development plan in November, outlining its vision and

Buncrana Children’s Charity to rebrand in November Read More »

Donegal County Council launches 2026 Bealtaine Festival

Donegal County Council officially launched the 2026 Donegal Bealtaine Fesitval in Ballyshannon. This marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of arts and creativity taking place across the county this month. The Donegal Bealtaine 2026 programme highlights activity that is happening across Donegal’s libraries, cultural venues and community spaces. Creative writing features strongly, with workshops

Donegal County Council launches 2026 Bealtaine Festival Read More »

Chair of Inishowen MD targeting further projects following €1.3 million investment in Portaleen Pier

Recent €1.3 million euro investment in Portaleen Pier has given a boost to the community in Glengad. That’s according to Cathaoirleach of the Inishowen Municipal District Martin McDermott. In recent years Glengad, has faced several issues including population decline and the effect of the defective concrete crisis. Cllr McDermott says, while the recent funding is

Chair of Inishowen MD targeting further projects following €1.3 million investment in Portaleen Pier Read More »

Calls for STOP sign at Glenmaquin crossroads to be lowered

Issues concerning the STOP sign at the bottom of the hill at Glenmaquin crossroads have been raised at a meeting of Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District. Cllr Donal Coyle highlights that the hill becomes very dangerous at sunrise as visibility of the sign becomes obscured. He says there have been a number of incidents due to this

Calls for STOP sign at Glenmaquin crossroads to be lowered Read More »

Over 2,400 speeding offences detected by Gardaí during May Bank Holiday road safety campaign

More than 240 drivers have been caught using their phones or not wearing a seatbelt this weekend. Gardaí have also detected over 2,400 people speeding during the May Bank Holiday road safety campaign – which continues until tomorrow morning. 123 motorists have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. There have

Over 2,400 speeding offences detected by Gardaí during May Bank Holiday road safety campaign Read More »

Donegal County Council urges dog owners to control pets during lambing season

Donegal County Council are urging dog owners to keep their pets under control during lambing season. They say sheep are particularly vulnerable during this time of year. Pet owners are being asked to not let their dogs loose in areas adjoining livestock fields as many attacks are caused by dogs that escape and attack sheep

Donegal County Council urges dog owners to control pets during lambing season Read More »

Funding Available. Men and Womens sheds, Donegal, Highland Radio, Letterkenny, Donegal

Almost €50,000 in funding allocated to Men’s Sheds across Donegal

Over €47,000 in funding has been allocated to Men’s Sheds across Donegal, announced by Minister Dara Calleary. Manorcunningham, Rosses and Gaoth Dobhair have been allocated €3,000 each. Meanwhile, Ardara (€2,955.26), Ballyshannon (€2,031.70), Carn (€2,958.08), Cloughaneely (€2,688.15), Donegal Town (€2,093.12), Downstrands Family Resource Centre Rosbeg & Portnoo (€2,602.43), Killygordon (€2,600), Kilmacrenan (€2,384.73) and Mevagh (€2,462.65) are

Almost €50,000 in funding allocated to Men’s Sheds across Donegal Read More »

‘More investment needed for Donegal piers and harbours’ – Deputy Mac Lochlainn

A Donegal Deputy says there is a need for more investment for piers and harbours in the county. Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn was speaking at the opening of Portaleen Pier in Glengad on Friday. He said it was a proud day for the community as the pier is central to the character of the town.

‘More investment needed for Donegal piers and harbours’ – Deputy Mac Lochlainn Read More »

Donegal clubs encouraged to attend final information evening for Community Sports Facilities Fund

Donegal sports clubs are being encouraged to attend the final information evening on the Community Sports Facilities Fund tomorrow. The event it taking place in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town at 7.30pm. Donegal Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue says the funding is an important source for clubs seeking to expand

Donegal clubs encouraged to attend final information evening for Community Sports Facilities Fund Read More »

Independent Ireland and Aontú gain popularity in new poll

Independent Ireland and Aontú have become more popular following the fuel protests. They’ve both broken their own party records, in the latest Sunday Independent/ Ireland Thinks poll. Voters have punished Fianna Fail and Taoiseach Micheál Martin with the party falling by two to 17% and its leader seeing a 6 point drop in popularity. But

Independent Ireland and Aontú gain popularity in new poll Read More »

Gardaí from Buncrana take part in cross-border checkpoints in Bridgend and Muff

Gardaí in Buncrana have participated in cross-border checkpoints, as the May Bank Holiday Roads Policing Operation continues. The Roads Policing Unit joined Police from Derry City and Strabane in the Bridgend and Muff areas yesterday. It comes as over 1,700 drivers have been caught speeding since Thursday morning. 200 drivers were also caught holding a

Gardaí from Buncrana take part in cross-border checkpoints in Bridgend and Muff Read More »

Controlled explosion carried out following discovery of suspicious device outside Letterkenny

Bomb disposal experts were called to Donegal after a suspicious device was found outside Letterkenny yesterday afternoon. Gardaí and emergency services responded to a report of a suspicious device near Edenacarnan South. The Defence Forces have confirmed their Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team responded to a request for assistance from An Garda Síochána in relation

Controlled explosion carried out following discovery of suspicious device outside Letterkenny Read More »