News Archive
May 2001

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Terence Takes his Seat

Terence Slowey pictured with his wife, Patricia, at the Council Chamber in Lifford on Monday, where he replaced the late Clr. Charlie Bennett.

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Performance Artiste on the Diamond
On Saturday June the 2nd, Mellissa McDonnell will be presenting a piece of theatre concerned with the error of coincidences, on the Diamond. Local participation in this unique event between 2 and 6 p.m. is invited and is necessary to its success.

Launch of the Fashion Line, 'Selma'
From 6-8 p.m. on June the 2nd, there will be a launch of the fashion line 'Selma', a Japanese/Indian collection of clothes, as well as the sale of unique Moroccan and Indian products. This will take place in the Heiritage Centre, upstairs, and will also be available for viewing on Sunday the 3rd of June between 2 and 6 p.m.

Photography Exhibition
There will be an exhibition of contemporary photography by Dublin-based artist, Brendan Early, in the Heiritage Centre from the 2nd of June until August the 3rd. The exhibition is entitled 'Dolma Project' and documents the rapid changes which have occurred in Ireland in recent years.

Ard Bia Filmclub
There will be an Indian film season in June.

Kilclooney Church Bazaar
This bazaar will take place on Sunday, June the 17th in the Dolmen Centre, Kilclooney at 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Tea, coffee, and light refreshments will be available all day in the Dolmen Coffee Dock.

Senior Citizens
There are outings planned for Carrick on the 5th of June and for Doon Well on June the 12th. Telephone Breda at 075-41246 if you are interested.

Salmon Season
The fishermen are having a moderately good beginning to the season, which is usually a time of poor catches. At present a salmon of more than 8 pounds weight costs around £4-50. per pound and a salmon of less than 8 lbs costs around £3-20. per pound.

Congratulations! congratulations!
To say it twice is in order, since Tom and Imelda Boyd of Loughros Point became the proud parents of twins on Sunday morning the 27th of May. The twins, a son and a daughter, were a complete surprise to their parents and their older sister, and the rest of their extended family. We wish the whole family well.

Celebration Dance
A celebration dance to mark Terence Slowey's membership of Donegal County Council will take place in the Nesbit Arms Hotel Ardara this Sunday the 3rd of June. Everyone is welcome.

Congratulations to Terence on his new post as County Councillor, representing this area.

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Chiropodist
The Chiropodist will be in the Community Centre on Tuesday, 29th May, from 2:00pm - 5:00pm.

Senior Citizens
Day out for Senior Citizens to Carrick on 5th June.

Doon Well
Day out to Doon Well on Tuesday, 12th June. All enquiries to 41246.

Relics of St. Therese
The Relics of St. Therese will travel through Ardara on Sunday next, 3rd June, on their way to Bruckless, where they will remain until 12 noon the following day.

They will leave Falcarragh at 12 noon on Sunday and are expected in Ardara sometime after 1:00pm. The vehicle containing the relics will travel slowly through the town without stopping. If you wish to venerate the relics, the Church in Bruckless will be open all night on Sunday night as well as during the daylight hours.

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Ardara's day of the bands

At the invitation of the Ardara Town Traders, the Donegal Marching Bands Association held their annual competition for 2001 in Ardara for the first time on Sunday afternoon.

The weather was kind and a good crowd of people lined the streets and the Diamond to enjoy the craic.

But it was very serious business for the bands, for whom this was the culmination of months of music practice and rehearsal of complex drills.

On the Diamond, the bands were welcomed to the town on behalf of the Town Traders by Councillor elect Terence Slowey. Following the speeches, each band performed in turn, their well-rehearsed sequence of fast and slow marching tunes accompanied by marching steps from the majorettes, and marching drills in which the whole group participated.

By about 6:00pm all of the bands had been heard and then came the results.

In the Beginners' section, Letterkenny Band took first place with 129 points, being also best band on parade for their section.

In the Novice section, Gweedore was placed first with 174 points, and Fanad was second, having been rated as best band on parade in their section.

Loughanure took second place in the Junior section with 160 points, whilst Dungloe won first place with 177 points, having also earned the rating of best band on parade of their section.

Mullaghduff Band won the Intermediate section.

Convoy Band was second in the Senior section with 180 points, and Ramelton took first place with 182 points.

Mr Slowey made the Ardara Traders special presentation to a young band who had they felt, contributed most to the occasion - Loughanure Band.

It does seem a little sad when all is over, to see what litter a happy crowd can leave behind. Maybe this is an aspect that can be improved upon.

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The Late John Dunleavy
The death took place recently in Letterkenny General Hospital of John James Dunleavy. John was aged 81 and had been in failing health for a number of years. He was a conscientious farmer in the townland of Shanaghan, Loughros Pt, but had also worked as a hand weaver for Magee and Co. Ltd, and as a fisherman. He looked forward each year to the salmon fishing season.He was a faithful member of the Methodist congregation and served on the Leaders' Board and in the choir. Having strong Christian principles, John sought to put them into practice in his life. This was evident in his attention to detail in his work, and in his dealings with his neighbours.
A large attendance accompanied the funeral cortege from Letterkenny Hospital to his home at Shanaghan. The burial took place in Kilcashel graveyard on May 10 after a funeral service at the family home, conducted by the Rev Colin Weir, assisted by the Rev Henderson and the Rev Stewart Morris.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret, his daughters, Joan Morrow, Madeline Boyd, and Georgina Morrow, his son, Joseph, his sons-in-law John Morrow, Billy Boyd, and James Morrow, his daughter-in-law, Sandra Dunleavy, his sister, Mollie Lucas, his brother, Alex, his sisters-in-law, Anna Adair, Bessy Dunleavy, and Emily Adair, his brothers-in-law, Joseph and Andrew C. Adair, his fifteen grandchildren, his nieces, nephews, and cousins to whom sympathy is extended from the whole community.

Ardara Girls' Friendly Society
Well-done to the G.F.S. on gaining many prizes in the Church of Ireland Diocesan competitions. For handcrafts : 3-5 year age group, Chantal Hanlon was highly commended ; 5-7, Victoria Baskin was highly commended ; 7-9, Esther Young received second prize ; 9-11, Rea Spence received third prize ; 15-18, Amanda Morrow was highly commended.
For scripture exams, in the junior class (3-5 years), Chantal Hanlon and Kirsty Baskin tied for second place ; 11-13 years, Lyndsay Walsh was placed second ; 15-18, Amanda Morrow distinguished herself by being placed first, for the fifth time in the five years in which she has participated at Diocesan level, and more recently she gained first place in scripture exams at national level, for the fourth time in five years of participation. In the over 21 age group, Elizabeth Henry was placed first in the Diocesan exam results.

Ardara Women's Group
The A.G.M. is scheduled for Tuesday the 29th of May at 8:00 p.m. in the Community Centre.

Ards Friary Roofing Fund
The help of the Capuchin Fathers in the parish and in the Diocese is much appreciated. Authorised collecters for the roofing fund will continue to call over the next week or so.

Ordination in N.Z.
On Friday the 25th of May, Eamonn Gerard Kennedy, nephew of Patrick Kennedy, Tullymore, and son of Francis and Angela Kennedy, will be ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Hamilton, New Zealand. We wish him well.

Junior Badminton
This is finished for the season. Thanks to all who helped.

Senior Citizens
There is a trip to Carrick on the 5th of June. Call Breda at 075-41246 if you would like to join in. Another outing to the Doon Well, with stops for lunch and tea, is being planned for Tuesday the 12th of June. The bus needs to be filled, so why not take part? Call 075-41246 if you wish to go on this day-trip.
There is a Senior Citizen's fund-raising dance in the Central Bar on the 26th of May.

Honouring the Relics of St Therese
The following suggestions have been made to honour St Therese on Sunday the 3rd of June.
1. First communion children from the parish to provide a Guard of Honour at the church and sprinkle flower petals.
2. Leaving and Junior Certificate examination classes to continue the Guard of Honour with the children.
3. Parishioners line the streets.
4. Consideration might be given to arranging a special little shrine outside your home if you are on the route.
5. A welcoming banner.

Library
The Parish Council is working to establish a library in Ardara and is asking the people of the community to donate books. The books need to be of reasonable quality and they may be left at the Credit Union Office which is open on Monday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.and from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

A Week of Yoga
From June 11-16, 9:30 -10:30 each morning, Richard Sphain will teach Asthianga (power) yoga. In the afternoon from 4:30-6:00p.m. Rajiv Kumar Bhoi will teach Hatha yoga and Praniyama. Booking is necessary.
Registration for the whole week will cost £85. and individual classes will cost £4. For more information call Ard Bia at 087-2368648, or 075-41704 (evenings).

Association of Marching Bands Competition
Congratulations to the Town Traders for bringing this event to the town on May the 20th, and organising it so well. It was a very enjoyable afternoon and quite a large crowd turned out for the entertainment. Ten bands marched down the hill from the Community Centre looking and stepping very smartly, and then provided a spectacle of music and intricate marching drills on the Diamond until 6 p.m.

Revision of Community Games Dates
A fund-raising dance will take place in the Central Bar on Saturday the 2nd of June in aid of the Narin and Ardara Community games. There will also be a church gate collection on Sunday the 3rd of June for the same purpose.
The Ardara and Narin Community Games Sportsday is scheduled for Monday the 4th of June at 2:00 p.m. in Pearse Memorial Park. There will also be an afternoon of art and model-making in the Community Centre on Saturday the 9th of June at 2:00 p.m. Please note the revised dates.

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Ardara Foroige back in action

Ardara Foroige Clubs are back in action again. We attended the King and Queen of Foróige competation which was held in Inver on Saturday 12th May. Our clubs were reperesented by Carmel Boyle and Martin Sweeney, Brenda Mc Hugh and Aoife O Hart. Both pairs done very well, Carmel and Martin being beaten by the representatives from Rossnowalgh by just one point, the disco which followed the competition was enjoyed by all. We commenced a First Aid and C.P.R. course in the community centre last Thursday night. Our thanks to Beth Herron and Marie Mooney who put up with us all year and helped us with all our activities. THANKS!!!

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Donegal Marching Bands

This Sunday next the 20th sees Ardara hosting the Donegal Marching Bands Associations with some of the top bands in the County as well as from Northern Ireland parading through the town.

The competition commences at 2.30.pm with assembly at the Community Centre at 2.pm. The bands will parade down through the town , stopping to perform on the Diamond and carrying on to the completion point in the Church grounds. All stewards and anyone else involved should gather at the community centre for 2.pm. Motorists are advised that traffic will be diverted around the town from 2pm until the completion of the parade.The pick up points for McGeehin and Feda O Donnells buses will be at the Heritage Centre at 3.30.pm. sharp.

Anyone with any enquiries should contact any member of the Ardara Town Traders committee who are responsibile for the organisation on the day. It is hoped that the parish will come out and support this venture which is the first of its kind in the community for a number of years and should prove to be a great day out for all the family.

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Ardara settles down for summer film season

As another summer gets underway so does an exciting line up of movies at the Ard Bia Film Club and coffee shop in the Ardara Heritage Centre.

The season will get underway with a wonderful documentary series, including highlights from the recent "Doclands" film festival in Dublin. This is a great opportunity to see some of the most interesting and entertaining documentaries currently being produced throughout the world.

Tonight the curtains will roll back to reveal "Aidan Walsh-Master of the Universe" and "The Holy Brother of Steam and Agony.

In June the Film club will continue with a range of Indian films which will be followed in July with a month of movies from Denmark. August and September will also have certain themes from the weird and wacky to the best in current hot pre releases.

As innovative as ever Ard Bia will also be offering an intensive Yoga week from June 11th to 16th with teachers from France and India and a range of exhibits throughout the summer.

For further information on any of the events in Ard Bia in the Ardara Heritage Centre contact Aoibheann MacNamara on 075-41704 or 087-2368648.

Complete list of films in May

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Ardara Show Cancelled
For 2001
By Susan Boyd

The Ardara Show, one of the major livestock and craft attractions in Co. Donegal during August, has been cancelled for this year. This show first took place during the late 1890's in Glenties and continued, with minor breaks, including a break during the turbulent years of the early 20th century, until the present day. Since 1926 the venue of the show has been Ardara. Having taken place in three different centuries, it has to be one of the longest running shows in Ireland.

The decision to cancel this years show, taken at a recent meeting of the show committee, follows a recommendation from the Irish Shows Association, of which Ardara is a member, that all affiliated shows should cancel their events for this year. The I.S.A.'s recommendation followed an evaluation of all the information presently available from the Department of Agriculture and is a gesture of total support for the steps being taken to eradicate foot and mouth disease.

However, while the decision means that none of the 70 livestock classes, dog show or accompanying sports events will be staged on the traditional Ardara showfield, the show committee is considering whether the 100-plus crafts, produce and children's classes, which normally take place in a giant marquee on the showfield, can be staged in the local community centre. A special meeting to gauge local opinion and support is to be held in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel on Monday June the 18th.

"The Ardara Show is one of many to be cancelled and, while it is very regretable, it has to be recognised that the current situation concerning foot and mouth, especially in Northern Ireland and the U.K., makes the decision very necessary," said Ardara Show secretary, Niall Heena. "It is a major set-back, but Ardara has a strong show tradition stretching back many years, and we now have to look forward to and make plans for next year," he said.

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Ardara Man Achieves www. Award
By Susan Boyd

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Parish Council Meeting.
The chairman congratulated Terence Slowey as being a man with all necessary qualities to take up his new post as County Councillor. He was glad to see the local Fine Gael nominee appointed.

Mary Nicholls is continuing with her library training in Letterkenny. Apparently no shelving will be provided by the County Library Service for a library in Ardara, and only a limited number of books. This raises the question of whether local people would be happy to donate books, and also whether that would be a good avenue to take.

On the subject of the condition of the Ardaghey road, the chairman reported that a large sum of E.U. funding was to be allocated by the Co. Council for the restoration of this road. Locally, Magumna and Monargan roads are to be repaired and re-surfaced soon. It is planned that FAS would construct a footpath from Drumaghey Pk on the Killybegs road as far as the Magumna turn-off.

As part of the summer students scheme, 'welcome to Ardara' signs will be erected on approach roads to the town.

If every person in the parish would take up the challenge to spend one hour per week for two months, keeping the road-side outside their own house clean, it would make a great impact on the litter problem. It was noted that Owenea car-park is badly littered, and that the gardens on the Diamond will soon get some much-needed attention. Some publicity has been given to a County Council service of collecting large household items of rubbish, but exactly when the lorry would call in Ardara was not known. Francis Furey of Glenties, has a contract to collect old cars for the Council, but only if they are accessible from the road.

It was reported that the Co. Council toilet facilities at Narin Beach had been locked on Sunday of the recent Bank Holiday week-end, though they had been opened on the Monday.
Some project funding is available as part of the U.N. international 'Year of the Volunteers'. For further information, contact the Parish Council secretary, Donal Haughey.

There will be a meeting concerning Donegal cultural activities in the Abbey Hotel on June the 6th. Our cultural identity is important and links our past, present, and our future. It is hoped to establish a five-year cultural development programme.

The Millenium Committee stated that Stephen Given was prepared to make the necessary technical drawings of the proposed Diamond sculpture, for submission to the Co. Council planning section.

A small committee was set up to investigate the formation of an adult drama group in the community, given that there is no lack of ability in this field in Ardara and its environing area. The committee is made up of Beth Herron, Jack Maguire, and Tommy Porter. If you're interested in this development, contact one of them.

A discussion of health facilities available to the public resulted in a decision by the chairman, Stephen McCahill, to check up as to why there should be long delays and waiting lists in children's medical services. He will report back to the group about this.

Councillor Slowey undertook to investigate the provision of a 'yield' sign and yellow box markings by the County Council, on the Diamond at the intersection with the Donegal road.

Though it is illegal to supply alcoholic drinks to young people under the age of eighteen, the results of teenage drinking had been observed in Ardara recently.The gardi are aware of the problem, but parents need to be more vigilant. Sometimes the source of the alcohol proves to be the drinks cupboard at home, at other times older people, or even parents, purchase alcoholic drinks for younger teenagers.

A rural development office covering the area from Inver to Glencolmcille, has been opened in the Killybegs old carpet factory. Available funding allows the employment of a staff of two people.

There are still places available in the summer Students' Scheme. For further information, contact Stephen McCahill at 41347 in the evenings.

Congratulations
Though they are somewhat belated, hearty congratulations are conveyed to T.D.Thomas Gildea, and his wife Eilish on the birth of their baby son on May Day, a most propitious birth date to have. We wish the three of them well.

The Late Hugh James McHugh
Hugh passed away peacefully at his home in Surry, England, at the age of 56. He was born in Hillhead, Ardara, and was very fond of his home town. He was the youngest of nine children and also, according to his family, the most handsome. In his youth Hugh had played football but that was supplanted in later life by golf, a sport he became very good at. He and his wife had begun to build a second home on the outskirts of Glenties, which Breda, of Glenties origins, will continue. Hugh had loved Glenties but took delight in teasing his in-laws about their town. He was greatly loved and respected by his friends and business associates in Ireland and England. Hugh was a talented carpenter and tradesman who eventually came to own the construction firm of Kent and Roberts Ltd where he worked in Cheam. Hugh employed men from our area from time to time, who all regarded him as "a good boss to work for" and a generous man.
A requiem mass was held in St Christophers at Cheam, Surrey, on May 4, the celebrant being Father Nash, and a short service took place in the church of the Holy Family in Ardara on May 5th. A requiem mass was held in Ardara on May 6th at 11 a.m. at which the Very Rev Canon A. Laverty celebrated, assisted by Father Gallagher of Glenties. The choir was from St Connall's chuch, Glenties. A very large crowd attended both Ardara services. Hugh was laid to rest in St Conall's cemetery, Glenties. Father Prendegast, P.P., officiated at the graveside ceremony.
Hugh is mourned by his wife, Breda, his sons, Kevin and Gary, his daughter, Clare, and his grand-child, Ciara, and all the Keeney family of Glenties. He is survived by his sister, Mary Lynch (Portlaoise), his brother, Frank, (Pennsylvania), his sister, Roshe Mlynarski, (Pennsylvania), and his brother John, (Dublin). He is also mourned by a wide circle of relatives and friends in Ireland, England, and the U.S.

Art Exhibition
You are invited to attend the opening of In Tandem IV, an exhibition of paintings to mark the re-opening of the Ardara Artists Rsource Centre, Wood Rd, for the summer. The exhibition features solo exhibitions by Dublin based Alan Keane and Brian Byrne, currently living in Lettermacaward. The exhibitionis open Tuesdays - Sundays from 10:30 a.m. till 5:30 p.m., and will continue until June the 5th, 2001. Admission is free.

Senior Citizens
A fund-raising supper dance will be held in the Central Bar on May the 26th. Irish traditional and country music will be provided by 'Moonshine'.
On June the 5th any senior citizen interested is invited to be part of a day-trip, to participate with the senior citizens of Carrick in lunch, entertainment, and chat galore. Give your name to Breda at 075-41246 to register for this day out.
It's proposed to make a trip to Knock in the near future, so watch this space for more details.

Aerobic Classes
Because of the success of the 9 p.m. Tuesday night classes, an additional class in aerobics is being offered from 9-10 p.m. in the Community Centre on Thursdays. All are welcome. For further information contact Michelle at 075-41470.

Seafood Festival
Yes, it's that time of year again and free seafood, entertainment and craic will be on offer in Portnoo and Rosbeg from 22-24 June, that is for the whole week-end. Further information is available on the website : www.portnoo.rosbeg.com

Auction
Antiques, bric a brac, household goods,jewellry, farm produce, plants will be up for sale on Sunday the 3rd of June at 2 p.m. in the Dolmen Centre, Kilclooney. Proceeds are in aid of Inishkeel Hall and the Dolmen Centre. Items for the auction are welcomed and collected. Call Hazel at 075-45305, or Ml. John at 075-45216 if you have something to be transported.

Community Games
A fund-raising dance will take place in the Central Bar on Saturday the 2nd of June in aid of the community games in Ardara and Narin. There will also be a church gate collection on Sunday June the 3rd to help support this annual event.

Ardara Show
It is with regret that the Show Committee have decided to cancel this years show, as recommended by the Irish Shows Association. However, they are considering the possibility of exhibiting all non-livestock classes in the Community Centre. A special meeting to gauge local opinion is to be held in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel on Monday June the 18th. Niall Heena, the Show secretary, said that in view of the present situation regarding foot and mouth, the decision was very necessary but with Ardara's strong show tradition, we could look forward to and make plans for next year.

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'Ard Bia' Film Club
Documentary Film Season

May 16th
'Aidan Walsh - Master of the Universe'
Ireland 2000 (69 mins)
This is a touching portrait of one of Ireland's most eccentric underground characters. At times hilarious and at times tragically sad, the film charts Aidan's life from his harrowing childhood, through his career as a pop star and entrepreneur. It is testimony to a unique individual who has prevailed in spite of everything that society has thrown at him.


'The Holy Brother of Steam and Agony'
Finland 2000 (30 mins)
This fascinating and entertaining film shows just how much the Finish can take! Legendary hot sauna bather, Kake, prepares to participate in the sauna world championships. With temperatures rising well above 100 Celsius,



May 23rd
'May the Road Rise Up'
Ireland 2000 (73 mins)
This documentary follows Irish photographer Alen Mac Sweeney and his journey back to Ireland to meet the travelling families he photographed and recorded in the 1960's. This is a rich collection of stories and songs which interweave with the characters as we find them in the present day.


'Talking to the Dead'
Ireland 2000 (54 mins)
This documentary takes a fresh approach to looking at the tradition of the Irish funeral. Dealing with traditions from pagan times to the present, the film looks at, among other things, the politicisation of the funeral and the impact of death and dying have on Irish cultural life.



May 30th
'Images of a Dictator'
Canada 2000 (56 mins)
This facinating film chronicles the reign of terror of the Chilean Dictator, General Augusto Pinochet through news footage. In this hard-hitting visual collage, the imagery speaks for itself as the film presents a scathing tableau of military rule.


'Ice lemon for Hong Li'
Canada 2000 (80 mins)
This is a portrait of the lives of two generations in Vietnam today. War photographer Thomas Billhardt took photographs during the war and now returns to retrace the subjects. This film focuses on the tragedy of the war and the impact on the people.

For more information please Tel: 087-2368648 / 075-41704
Ard Bia, The Heritage Centre, Ardara, Co Donegal

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Bands Competition
Ardara is hosting the Donegal Marching Bands Competition on Sunday next, 20th May.

In Tanden IV
You are invited to attend 'In Tandem IV', and exhibition of paintings to mark the re-opening of Ardara Artists Resource Centre.
In Tandem IV exhibition features solo exhibitions by Dublin based Alan Keane and Brian Byrne, currently living in Lettermacaward.
The exhibition runs until 5th June 2001.

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ARDARA PARISH COUNCIL VOICES CONCERN AT LITTER ISSUE

Ardara, known world wide for its friendly atmosphere, traditional music and home of the Irish handknit. Ardara prides itself on its ability to attract large numbers of tourists from all over the world every summer. Surveys have shown that nearly all leave happy with the accommodation, food and warm welcome they receive in Ardara. The only concern is the large degree of litter that is increasing apparent in the Parish, on side roads, walkways and in most public areas.

The work done by Council worker Phil Diver is a credit to him. The streets of the village are kept spick and span and Ardara will forever be grateful to Phil's achievements. But, it is our beautiful walkway our scenic spots our side roads. It is in the drains and the bushes and around private houses that we have let ourselves down.

It is said that you are assessed on your appearance but our appearance presently has a lot to be desired. The problem this spring is exasperated by the low growth rate which is making the litter problem more apparent. The Parish Council recently initiated a poster competition through the National Schools. The scheme was a great success and it was amazing to see the childrens awareness of the problem but the problem is not with the children - it is adults who must address the issue.

To address this problem for the betterment of Ardara as a holiday destination and for self esteem the Parish Council is requesting the following:

1. That each family in the Parish would spend one hour per week lifting the litter
around their own vicinity i.e. along the roadway in bushes and drains.

2. That this pilot scheme to continue each week until the end of June.

3. Each household be aware that refuse collections take place each Friday and Monday. Labels for your refuse bags can be purchased in most shops.

4. The Parish Council will organise refuse skips for any group willing to do a major clean up

Ardara is a beautiful place with much to offer. Don't you be the one to let the side down. Keep Ardara clean. Please support our scheme - one hour per week

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Slowey wants to make contribution
By Peter Campbell

The Ardara man defeated Maureen Doohan and Michael Murray in the Fine Gael contest in Highlands Hotel, Glenties on Sunday night last.

Speaking this week Mr.Slowey said: "I certainly will be making a contribution. The selection on Sunday night last was a politicl event, but now you're a Councillor for all the community, and that's what is important to me," said Terence, who said that was the role of Charlie Bennett.

Terence was happy with the result of the vote, which saw him win on the second count after being just two votes short of the quota on the first count:

"We did think it was an Ardara seat but we didn't take anything for granted. It was a pretty stiff, competitive race and the calibre of opposition was high. I spent five days canvassing from here to Creeslough and visited as many of the delegates as I could.

"To almost reach the quota on the first count was very, very satisfying, especially for me as I was the new kid on the block," said Terence.

Terence's track record in Fine Gael in Meath probably filtered down to the delegates.

"I would have joined the Fine Gael branch in Ashbourne in 1978 and held various posts. I changed house and moved six miles and found myself in a different branch area. I then joined the Ratoath branch.

"After joining the district area and in the mid-80s John Bruton asked me to be his election agent. I would have organised three general elections for him".

Mr.Slowey returned to his native area of Ardara in Christmas 1996 and immediately joined the Fine Gael branch there.

While something of a veteran Fine Gael, he realises that he is a novice Co Councillor: "I have to go in and learn the ropes on Donegal Co Council. My background is in the environment as I worked as an environmental chemist. It is now called Enterprise Ireland but it went through a number of name changes from its original IIRS.

"For the last four years I have been a member of the National Building Agency involved in Local houses," he said."

Mr.Slowey says he wishes to get involved in the whole housing question. "An integrated approach to housing is very important, in terms of putting in a mix of housing - local authority, affordable housing and indeed, some private sites for young couples sold at a relatively low cost," he said.

He also has a great interest in water quality and the issue of fluoridation and sanitary services. "There has been lots of talks about fluoridation and health and I would welcome Minister Martin's inquiry into fluoridation.

"Of far more importance is that all the people of Donegal have a standard of water which meets the drinking water directive which is enshrined in Irish law.

"The specific problems which exist are in relation to Group schemes which are not maintained by the Co Council. There can be a problem here for old people and children. Last year's EPA scheme would have pointed to schemes in Donegal which require work and to be fair to Donegal Co Council they have made a huge effort in the last number of years," said Mr.Slowey.

"The roads are the big issue. The N56 which runs from Letterkenny all the way round to Donegal town. It is under the control of the National Roads Authority but it is in a very poor condition.

"For years we just got the crumbs and if the Tanaiste is serious about decentralising industry to the peripheral areas, roads like that have to get top priority.

"They will say we don't have the population density to achieve that but I have looked at places like Brittany in France where the population density is less than that but the roads are of top quality," said Mr.Slowey, who agreed it was a chicken and egg situation. The Ardara man said he was looking forward to his new role, which will start on Monday, 28th May.

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The late Larry Gallagher

The death took place recently in Killybegs Hospital of Larry Gallagher of Brackey, Ardara.

Aged 73, the late Mr Gallagher was well known over a wide area. In his early years he joined the Abbey Theatre in Dublin in the 1950s along with Ray McAnally and Siobhan McKenna.

After spending some time in England, he returned to his native area to take up the family tradition of contracting. He was an avid reader and orator and was an active member of the Fine Gael party in South West Donegal, attending meetings and Ard Fheiseanna.

His popularity was reflected in the numbers attending the removal of his remains to St.Agatha's Church. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Cannon Padraig McShane, PP, Donegal.

The late Mr Gallagher is survived by his daughter, Anne, son-in-law and two granddaughters; by brothers Packie (Kilcar); Neil and Connell (Ardara); sisters, Anne Spencer (Liverpool) and Mary Erskine (Kilcar); sisters-in-law, brother-in law, nephews, nieces and friends.

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Fine Gael nominate Slowey

Fine Gael have formally nominated Terence Slowey as the replacement for the late councillor Charlie Bennett on Donegal County Council.

A former election agent with deposed party leader, John Bruton, Mr.Slowey will be co-opted onto the Local Authority on Monday May 28th.

The Fine Gael nominee won out by thirty votes over his nearest rival at the selection convention held in the Highlands Hotel in Glenties on Sunday night.

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Band Music Compensates for Lack of
St Patrick's Parade
By Susan Boyd

'Ardara Diamond : venue for the Donegal
Marching Band Competition, Sunday, May 20th'

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Our Lady of Fatima
The rosary will be recited in celebration of the Feast Day of our Lady of Fatima, at Drumaghey Park on Sunday, May the 13th at 8 p.m.

Multiple Sclerosis
The organisers would like to thank the people who helped, and contributed to the Multiple Sclerosis annual collection at Easter week-end. The sum given amounted to £424.

Band Competition
Put a circle round May 20 on your calender to mark the date of the Donegal Marching Band Association Competition in Ardara. The parade will begin from the Church of the Holy Family grounds at 2:30 p.m. that day, and the competition judging commences at 3 p.m. on the Diamond area. A maximum of 15 bands will participate, including 2 from across the border. The Town Traders are proud to announce this event, which is a first for Ardara and could become an annual event, with the co-operation of local people.Through traffic on the Killybegs road will be diverted via Drumbarron that afternoon.

Tai Chi Chuan
Expert instruction will be offered in this discipline by Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang, at Dorrians Imperial Hotel, Ballyshannon from 22-26 June. For further information, contact Gill Keogh at 072-52374.
Further Information

Ardara Community Games
This sports day is scheduled for Monday June the 4th, commencing in Pearse Memorial Park at 2 p.m.

Art and Model-Making
There will be a day for these activities in the Community Centre on Saturday the 9th of June, beginning at 2 p.m.

The Late Ethel McPhilemy
The death took place recently of Ethel McPhilemy, nee Crossey, in Ballybofey. She lived in Monargan for 20 years before her marriage, after which she moved to Ballybofey. She loved her home-town and visited it at every opportunity over the years. She was a deeply religious and hard-working person, and was held in very high esteem by her neighbours and friends. This was evidenced by the large numbers of people who came to her wake and funeral. She will be sadly missed by her husband, Steve, and family, to whom we offer our deepest sympathy.
Ar Dheis De go Raibh a h-anam Dilis.

Table Quiz
The final table quiz of the season will take place in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel on Friday the 11th of May at 10:30 p.m. The winning team will receive the Pat Slowey Memorial Shield and a set of plaques. All are welcome to be at this event.

Children's Choir
In preparation for the celebration of First Holy Communion on Pentecost Sunday, June the 3rd, the children's choir will practise in the Church of the Holy Family on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. All members are asked to attend.

Congratulations
Congratulations to Brian Fleury on a new award for the Ardara Town web site. The International Association of Web Masters and Designers (IAWMD), has awarded the Ardara Town web site a 2001-2002 Golden Web Award in recognition of creativity, integrity, and excellence on the web.

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The International Association of Web Masters & Designers IAWMD has awarded the Ardara Town web site a 2001 - 2002 Golden Web Award in recognition of creativity, integrity and excellence on the Web.

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Table Quiz
The final Table Quiz of the season, will take place in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel on Friday, 11th May at 10.30pm. The winning team will receive the Pat Slowey Memorial Shield and a set of plaques. All welcome.

Parish Council
Meeting of the Parish Council in the Community Centre on Wednesday, 9th May, at 9:00pm. All welcome.

Music / Drama
Music / Drama classes with Ms.Bonner, cancelled tomorrow night.

Show Meeting
Show Meeting in the Hotel on Monday night at 9:00pm.

Children's Choir
Preparation for the Celebration of First Holy Communion on Pentecost Sunday, 3rd June. Practice on Tuesday evenings at 7:00pm. All members are asked to attend.

Children's Cancer Unit
Fundraising Dance in aid of Children's Cancer Unit, Crumlin, on Wednesday, 9th May 2001, in the Highlands Hotel, Glenties, from 10:00pm - 2:00am. Music by Country Traditions. Admission: £3.00. All donations welcome. Tickets on sale in Diver's Newsagents.
Bus leaving the Diamond at 10:00pm. Interested? Contact Greta at 41744 before Tuesday.

Rosary
The Rosary will be recited in Drumaghy Park, on Sunday, 13th May, Feast Day of Our Lady of Fatima, at 8:00pm

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Former Co Clr. Maureen Doohan from Falcarragh and Michael Murry, Burtonport will be in opposition against the Ardara choice of Terence Slowey.

Mr.Slowey was selected by the Ardara branch at the meeting on Monday night in Doherty's and his name was something of a surprise, as it was expected that John Michael O'Donnell would be the candidate.

Mr. Slowey, who returned to his native Ardara some years ago, lived in Meath for some years where he was active in the Fine Gael organisation as director of elections for former Fine Gael leader, John Bruton.

Tomorrow's meeting will be chaired by Don Conlon from the Fine Gael National Executive, Registration for delegates is from 7.30 to 8pm and the meeting will commence at 8.30pm.

After the official proposal, the nominees will be allowed to talk for ten minutes and the vote will be a straight PR system, with all three names on the ballot paper.

The last time a Councillor had to be contested, ironically, resulted in the late Clr. Charlie Bennett being selected. That contest was after the death of the late Clr. Connell Boyle and Clr. Bennett was co-opted without a contest.

However, that is not a likely option this time. The Ardara area will feel that they have a right to the franchise, but it looks as if Terence Slowey will have to fight for the position.

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I'm not going for Council - Marian Bennett

The contest for a replacement for the late Charlie Bennett on Donegal County Council has been thrown open following the announcement by his wife Marian that she is not going forward.

"I have given it a lot of thought and I felt it would be too stressful," she said on Monday. "I spent the whole of last week thinking about it and I made the decision last night."

There was mounting speculation over the weekend that Marian Bennett would allow her name to go forward, and one Fine Gaeler in the area said he was 99.9% certain she was going ahead.

Keep the seat
Mrs. Bennett said "I don't know who will be going - it probably will be John Michael (O'Donnell) but at this stage that is only a guess by me. The main thing is to try and keep the seat in Ardara."

Among the likely nominees, Maureen Doohan, who was defeated in the last election, was the last Fine Gael chairperson of the Council prior to the late Mr.Bennett.

The other nominee will come from the Dungloe-Burtonport area where brothers John and Michael Murray have both indicated they are interested

The Fine Gael party are due to meet in Glenties at the weekend to make a decision on who will be the new member of the Council.

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It is the wish of Hugh's immediate family that his body be brought back to Donegal. He will be burried in Glenties; his requiem Mass will be said in Ardara.

His body will arrive in Belfast on Saturday May, 5, 2001 at around 10 AM. and will proceed to Ardara. Mass will be said on Sunday,

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Swimming Pool in Kilclooney
More Than a Possibility
By Susan Boyd

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Swimming Pool Feasibility Study
This study, being conducted by Holohan Leisure, Dublin, is at the beginning of it's 6-8 weeks duration. If the feasibility study is positive, funding will be forthcoming, and we can look forward to having an indoor pool at the Dolmen Centre, Kilclooney. At present , the Dolmen Pool Committee are most interested in receiving letters from individuals and groups, stating any special requirements they would like to see included in the new pool structure, and also stating that they would be prepared to use the pool facilities. This is an important aspect of the feasibility study, and one to which every interested person in the proposed pool catchment area can contribute. Correspondence should be addressed to Mr Michael Ward, Secretary, The Dolmen Pool Committee, Straboy, Glenties.

The Late Sarah Boyle
Sarah, who lived with her brother, John, on the family farm, Kennaughty, passed away peacefully in the early hours of the morning of Saturday the 7th of April. Aged 85 years and in failing health for the past few years, she had been able to attend to her household duties until the day before her death. Sarah had spent a number of years working in Belfast before she returned home to live. She had a deep religious faith, and was a very hard-working, industrious person. She was held in high esteem by all her neighbours and friends and she will be sadly missed.
Requiem mass was celebrated in the Church of the Holy Family, Ardara, by the Very Rev. Canon A. Laverty, P.P., who also officiated at the burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Sarah was pre-deceased by her sisters Mary and Teresa, and is survived by her brother, John, sisters, Nellie McLoon and Peg Kennedy, brothers-in-law, Francie Kennedy and Charlie O'Rourke (London), nieces, nephews and their families.

The Late Maureen Breslin
The death took place at Letterkenny General Hospital of Mrs Maureen Breslin, Portnoo Rd, Ardara, on Easter Monday April 16. She was the last surviving member of the Breslin family, Summy, Portnoo. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Danny in 1977, her baby daughter, Annie Teresa in 1945, and her daughter, Maura (Meehan) in 1998.
A hard worker all her life and the second eldest of seven children, she returned from working in England at the age of 20, when her mother died, so that she could look after her brothers and sisters, her father having died nine years previously. Maureen and Danny and their family lived on a farm in Tullymore before building 'Aisling House' on the Portnoo Rd, which was the first house in the area to provide bed and breakfast, and full board accomodation.
A large crowd attended the wake and funeral. The remains were removed from the family home on the 18th of April to the Church of the Holy Family, Ardara, where requiem mass was celebrated by Rev. Father Seamus Meehan, P.P. Dungloe, who was assisted by Rev. Father Philip Daly C.C. Kilclooney.
Maureen is survived by her daughters Dolores Gildea, Glenconwell, Carmel Donohoe, Cork, Louise O'Brien, Portnoo Rd, her son, Don Breslin, Portnoo Rd, and son-in-law, Raymond Donohue, Cork, her grandchildren, Carmel and Ciaran Meehan, Conal, Gareth, and Aisling Gildea, Enda, Gemma, and Clodagh Donohoe, Barry, Daniel, Desmond, Finola and Linda O'Brien and two great-grand-children, sisters-in law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

The Late Vincent Herron
Vincent Herron died at his home on Monday April the 23rd, just a little more than two months before his retirement. He was a son of Molly and Joseph Herron, who had a grocer shop in the West End, Ardara, for many years. The shop had been founded in the 1900's by Vincent's grandparents and was called 'Sweeney and Co.' Though his early schooling didn't come easily to him, Vincent triumphed as a graduate in mechanical and electrical engineering from U.C.D. He was a member of the G.A.A. 1952 Minor team which became winners of the County Championship. (It was fitting that his old number 13 jersey graced his coffin at the funeral).
Vincent worked in England for a period after his graduation, then emigrated to the U.S. where he took up a post as a member of the Dupont research team, Philadelphia. He remained there for ten years but could not stay away from the country, county, and village that he loved. He returned to Ardara and taught at the Letterkenny Institute of Technology. His students and fellow staff members appreciated Vincent's sincerity and down-to-earth ways. He was a loyal and helpful friend, and a faithful member of his church.
He was also part and parcel of community life in Ardara for more than 25 years. He was instrumental in bringing cable T.V. into the town.It was a local endeaver of voluntary labour financed by the moderate fees of those who partook of the service, which is still in existence. A keen fisherman and an eclectic reader, Vincent also enjoyed a game of golf and became president of the Narin/Portnoo Golf Club this year. He was also honoured a few years ago for his participation, by the Ardara branch of the G.A.A.
The Church of the Holy Family was packed for Vincent's funeral mass which was conducted by the Rev Canon A. Laverty.Members of his family travelled from abroad in order to attend this sad occasion. A bus-load of Vincent's former colleagues and students from Letterkenny Institute of Technology, travelled to the funeral and formed a guard of honour outside the church.
Vincent is mourned by his brothers, John (Cherry Hill, New Jersey), Noel (Vancouver, British Columbia), Malachy, (Birmingham), Dermot, (Letterkenny), and his sister, Dr Nancy Herron (St Louis, Missouri).


Music in May
There will be a concert on Friday, May the 4th in St Conall's Church, Glenties, at 8:30 p.m. The programme will include works by Mozart, H. Goodall, G.Faure, with folk-song settings by John Rutter. The conducter will be Shaun Ryan, and the accompanists Denise Carwill (piano), Thomas Wilson (organ),Palriada Singers (chorus). Admission costs will be £5 and £4 (concession), £2.50.p. (students).All proceeds will be given to the Donegal Hospice organisation.

Healing Service
There will be a mass and healing service in Rossnowlagh on Sunday May the 6th. A bus will leave from Divers Newsagents in Ardara at 1:30 p.m. that day. Please book your ticket with Greta at Divers.

Show Meeting
In view of present restrictions to prevent occurrences of foot and mouth disease, decisions are to be made regarding the Ardara Show 2001 . There will be a meeting of all those interested on Monday May the 7th at 9 p.m. in the Nesbitt Arms Hotel, Ardara.

St Conalls Church, Ardara
On Sunday the 29th, the Ardara Church of Ireland parishioners travelled to Lettermacward to attend a combined service of morning prayer with members of Glenties, Portnoo, Glencolmcille, and Leitir churches, the latter being the hosts for the occasion. The church flowers were very pretty, featuring spring blossoms and greenery. The guest speaker was the Rev Matt Moran of St Peter's Church in the parish of Culmore, Derry. He is also Head Warden for the church's Ministry of Healing in the Derry/Raphoe Diocese and chaplain at Altnagarvin Hospital. Everybody enjoyed the opportunity to chat over a cup of tea or coffee afterwards, kindly provided by the Lettermacaward parishioners .

Congratulations
Congratulations to Pat McGill of Maghera who was honoured as ' Clubman of the Year' at the Donegal G.A.A. dinner dance in New York on Saturday, April the 28th. Pat is manager of the Donegal junior team in New York.

Ardara Parish Council
The next meeting will take place in the Community Centre at 9 p.m. on Wednesday May the 9th.

Association of Donegal Marching Bands
In combination with the Town Traders Committee, this association will be holding a band competition in Ardara on May the 20th. There will be other associated activities.

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