Clonmany Festival at risk after volunteers targeted with letters to their homes

Serious concerns over private correspondence sent to volunteers’ homes and the impact of ongoing misinformation have emerged as central factors in a decision that now places the future of one of Donegal’s best-known festivals in doubt.

Clonmany Enterprise Development Limited (CEDL) has confirmed it will step away from organising the long-running Clonmany festival, describing the move as “deeply difficult” after extensive consideration.

In a strongly worded statement, the group highlighted the growing personal toll on its volunteers. Directors revealed that registered correspondence had been sent directly to their private homes, a development that contributed to an increasingly stressful and intimidating environment.

At the same time, members pointed to what they described as persistent misinformation and misrepresentation of the organisation’s work. They say this has intensified pressure on volunteers and contributed to serious stress-related health impacts for some involved.

“The wellbeing of our volunteers must always come first,” the group said. “Without them, none of what has been achieved would have been possible.”

While increasing regulatory demands around large-scale events also played a role, CEDL made clear that the personal strain linked to these issues was a decisive factor in stepping back.

“This is not a decision we ever wanted to make,” the statement continued. “We are incredibly proud of what has been built, and we firmly believe we still had so much more to give. However, the current circumstances have made it impossible for us to continue.”

The group’s withdrawal marks a significant turning point for the festival, which has long been a highlight of the local calendar and a key driver of community life in Clonmany and the wider Inishowen area. Without a new organising body stepping forward, the future of the festival is now in serious jeopardy.

Local concern is also mounting over the potential economic impact. The festival traditionally draws large crowds each year, providing a vital boost to pubs, restaurants, shops, and accommodation providers. Its absence would represent a huge blow to businesses in the town, many of which rely on the increased footfall during the event.

Despite the circumstances, CEDL expressed hope that a new organising group will emerge to take the festival forward into its 59th year under appropriate structures. It has committed to supporting any future body by sharing its experience and knowledge to help ensure continuity.

Beyond the festival itself, the organisation reflected on its wider contribution to the community, from supporting local clubs and schools, including Clonmany Shamrocks FC, Rashenny FC, Urris GAA, St. Colmcille Centre, RNLI lifeboats, and the Community Centre.

The festival committee has also delivered projects in partnership with Donegal County Council. These include public lighting between Clonmany and Ballyliffin, footpath developments, and other key infrastructure improvements.

Additional contributions include  Christmas lights initiatives, Tidy Towns work, and the development of the Market House, which is now becoming an important community hub for local people.

All of this, the group emphasised, was achieved entirely through voluntary effort, with no payments ever made to directors or committee members.

“It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside our volunteers and the wider community over the past number of years. A very special thanks to Donegal County Council, An Garda Siochana, local authorities, and councillors for all their help over the years.” 

“The dedication, generosity, and spirit of people in this area is something we will always be proud to have been part of,” the statement said.

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CEDL concluded its statement by wishing the festival every success in the future

“We step back with heavy hearts, but also with immense pride in what has been achieved together. We truly hope that our efforts have made a lasting, positive difference.”