This week’s Donegal GAA convention was notable for the election of women to the key positions of chairperson, secretary, treasurer and PRO.

Elected as the county’s first female chairperson this time last year, former Tánaiste Mary Coughlan was returned unopposed. Ardara’s Mary Kelly was also elected unopposed as secretary in succession to the departing Declan Martin after Darren Collins and Sinead Breen both withdrew, while Grace Boyle faced no competition either for the treasurer’s role.

The aforementioned Sinead Breen held on to her position as PRO after defeating Packie McDyer in a vote. In another contest for assistant secretary, Darren Collins had just five votes – 82-77 – to spare over Ed Byrne. David McLoone continues as vice-chairperson.  

In her chairperson’s address, Mary Coughlan reflected on a very successful year for the Tir Chonaill County.

“What we have achieved this year has been unprecedented, fabulous and it would not have happened without the support of each and every one of you and your clubs,” she said.

“At senior level, we had tremendous success in both hurling and football. It was a proud moment to stand in Clones and a proud moment to stand in Croke Park with our senior hurlers and footballers and see what they have achieved on our behalf. 

“I thank them for what they have brought to us. There is a lovely word in Irish called ‘gliondar’ and they have brought a lot of happiness to us.”

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