Keiron Tourish

Whitemountain Quarries Limited was fined €1.2m at Letterkenny Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to health and safety breaches linked to a fatal 2020 road collision in County Donegal. John Mullan, his six-year-old daughter Amelia and his 14-year-old stepson Tomás died when their car left a poorly managed roadworks area and entered Lough Foyle; Geraldine Mullan survived with serious injuries. The court found that inadequate traffic management, removed signage, poor road friction and an unaddressed difference between the road surface and hard shoulder contributed to the tragedy. Judge Roderick Maguire said the company had failed to protect the public, while Breedon Ireland CEO Declan Carr offered an unequivocal apology. The company cooperated with investigators, had no previous convictions and said it had strengthened its health and safety practices.

Thousands gathered in Rossnowlagh, County Donegal, for the annual Orange Order parade, an event held each year ahead of Twelfth of July commemorations. Participants and visitors from across Ireland attended in sunny weather, with Donegal Grand Master David Mahon highlighting the relaxed atmosphere and positive relations with local Catholic neighbours. Families and band members expressed enthusiasm for the celebration, which remains a significant cultural tradition in the region.

Large crowds gathered in Rossnowlagh, County Donegal, for the annual Orange Order parade held ahead of Twelfth of July commemorations. Participants from multiple counties joined the event, described by Donegal Grand Master David Mahon as relaxed and family‑oriented, reflecting positive relations with local Catholic communities. Visitors highlighted the favourable weather and family participation, while Gardaí managed traffic during the busy day.

Lyra McKee’s killing during rioting in Londonderry in 2019 reignited trauma in Northern Ireland, prompting public outrage and rare unity among political leaders. The article recounts her life, writings and advocacy, the events of the night she was shot, and the recent acquittal of three men charged with her murder. It details the emotional impact on friends, family and community members, the role of dissident republicans in the shooting, and the symbolic significance of her funeral. Her legacy endures through awards and bursaries established in her name to support courageous journalism and young reporters.

A four-year-old boy from Londonderry, who underwent a double amputation after developing sepsis from meningococcal disease, was honoured by his school with a superhero-themed celebration. Now using prosthetic limbs, he has returned to nursery and is preparing for primary school. His principal and teachers praised his resilience and positivity, noting his progress and determination despite extensive medical treatment and recovery challenges.