East Donegal group honoured with reception for €440,000 fundraising efforts

A group based at Maggies Tavern in St Johnston have been honoured for their trojan fundraising efforts over the years.

The Maggies Fundraising Committees were honoured by Councillors of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District with a reception on Wednesday in the Council Chamber.

Around €440,000 has been raised by the group over the years for countless charities and very worthy causes.

Colin McNulty, Area Manager, Housing & Corporate Services, was MC at the event.

Councillor Liam Doherty, Cathaoirleach of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District, said that it is a remarkable achievement from such a large group of fundraisers, and it was a pleasure to host this Municipal District Reception, noting it is the highest honour the Municipal District can bestow upon a group.

Councillor Gerry Crawford said he was delighted to host the reception and thanked those who had supported his request.

Councillor Crawford referenced the presentation prepared by the group and running on the screen in the chamber, which he said clearly highlighted the wide range of charitable activities, commitment, hard work and determination of everyone involved, both past and present, and the community effort which was for no personal gain.

He said that it is quite remarkable that in the region of €440,000 has been raised.

He concluded by saying that every Committee needs a venue, and this was created in Maggies and said the large crowd was indicative of the commitment and effort of all involved with this special group of people.

Councillor Patrick McGowan said it was great to see the Chamber 'full of ordinary people doing extraordinary work' for a lot of worthy charities.

The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Councillor Martin Harley, referred to the often unseen work that underpins the success of voluntary fundraising groups and why he was delighted for the Maggies Fundraising Committees to get the recognition they deserve.

Joe McKane spoke on behalf of Maggies Fundraising Committees and thanked the Council for honouring them.

He thanked Councillor Crawford for nominating the group and listed over 20 charities who have benefited from the fundraising over the years.

He thanked Alice Lynch Sweeney and staff at Maggies for facilitating the work of the Fundraising Committees over the years and all those who have supported their endeavours.

The Maggies Fundraising Committees were presented with the official document of the Municipal District Honour and a specially engraved piece of glass, and Alice Lynch Sweeney was presented with a bouquet of flowers.