Mary from Dungloe International Festival Latest News

Dungloe Hospital celebrate their Golden Jubilee

Dungloe Hospital celebrate their Golden Jubilee on the opening weekend of the festival. The celebrations begin on Friday 25th with a special remembrance mass for past members of staff at 7.30pm in St Crona’s Church. This is followed directly by the launch of their Jubilee book in Ionad Teampall Chroine. On Sunday 27th July, the hospital will host a Garden Fete in the hospital grounds from 2 pm to 6 pm. A great day’s entertainment is guaranteed with music by the Flybys, Irish Dancers and Dominic Kirwan. Children will be entertained with Bouncing Castles, Bungee Run, Rodeo Bull and Goal Kicks while the traditional elements of the garden fete will still feature stalls for cakes, bric-a-brac, toys, plants, bottles and books with great prizes to be won. There will be an exhibition of photographs and refreshments will be served.

The hospital opened its doors on the 13th June 1958 which believe it or not was a Friday! The hospital has seen many well known locals as they first entered the world. These include Daniel O’Donnell, Packie & Denis Bonar, and Enya. The first of many Aranmore babies was Sean Boner, now solicitor in Dungloe.

Sister Peter was the matron in charge in the first year and the hospital has been lucky with their matrons through the years to the new and present ‘Director of Nursing’ Sue Islam.

When asked about a highlight for the hospital staff to date, they all agreed that having Sam Maguire brought to the hospital was a lovely memory. The fact that Tony Boyle, Manus Boyle and Declan Bonner were born in the hospital made it extra special and the patients were so proud of them.

The hospital was never officially opened, so after 50 years the staff have decided to have it officially opened in line with their jubilee celebrations. The official opening will be performed at the Garden Fete by Pat the Cope Gallagher.

All proceeds from the Garden Fete are in aid of a new outdoor recreational area for the patients at Dungloe Hospital. The staff feel it is important for patients “to be able to get a break from the indoors while still being in a safe environment. This area would be a pleasant place for them to sit and spend time with their families”.

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