Mark Mcdougall

An overnight burglary at Drumhaw Day Centre in Lisnaskea smashed a window and damaged the interior, forcing the facility to close for a day and disrupting respite, meals, personal care and social activities for vulnerable older people. MLA Diana Armstrong condemned the attack and highlighted the burden placed on families and carers, noting that the centre had been targeted previously. The PSNI is appealing for witnesses and CCTV footage, while the centre is expected to reopen on Monday.

Ulster Unionist MLA Robbie Butler has been officially appointed Northern Ireland’s new Health Minister, replacing Mike Nesbitt. Butler pledges to pursue a faster, fairer and more sustainable health service guided by clinical evidence, frontline experience and patient needs. He acknowledges long waiting times, staff pressure and broader system difficulties, promising urgent action, frontline engagement and accountability while building on Nesbitt’s approach. UUP leader Jon Burrows said the party had acted quickly and backed Butler’s commitment to meaningful reform.

Neil McConnell won Lough Erne Golf Club’s Captain’s Day with 41 points, finishing two points ahead of Alan Fitzsimmins and Terry McCartney. The event featured multiple competitions, with prizes also going to Mark McConkey, Jackie McNaboe, John Colton, Paddy Flanagan, David Robinson and Mark Hamilton, among others. The club reported strong participation and competitive scoring as captain Peter Stuart hosted the event.

Gardaí are seeking information about the death of a man in his 60s whose body was found at a residential property in Ballyjamesduff, County Cavan, on Saturday, August 15. A post-mortem examination has been completed, but its results have not been released for operational reasons. Gardaí have completed a technical examination of the scene, appointed a senior investigating officer and established an incident room in Bailieborough. Road users and pedestrians in the Kilmore estate area between 6pm and midnight are being asked to provide any relevant information or camera footage.

Mike Nesbitt has resigned as Northern Ireland’s Health Minister after serving in the role since May 2024. His departure follows criticism in Fermanagh over the Western Trust’s removal of Emergency General Surgery at South West Acute Hospital. The Ulster Unionist Party praised his work on neighbourhood care, health inequalities and waiting lists, while party deputy leader Diana Armstrong has been suggested as a possible successor.

Emmet Flatley won the Fletcher Golf Sponsored Competition at Castle Hume with 42 points, edging Jason Keenan on countback. Andrew Mowat won the gross category with 34 points, while Fraser McLean, Ryan Dunlop and Bobby Beacom took the three handicap divisions. Strong scoring and favorable course conditions made the event a competitive and well-supported fixture.

More than 140 golfers from across Ireland took part in the fourth Lough Erne Ladies’ Open Day on the Faldo Course at Lough Erne Golf Resort. Local golfer George Elliott won with 45 points and received a four-day all-inclusive trip to Italy sponsored by LG Travel NI. Organizers credited the Lough Erne Ladies, Lough Erne Golf Team, sponsors, volunteers and competitors for the event’s success and growing popularity.

Ellie McCartney delivered an impressive showing at the European Games in Paris, recording a season-best time to reach the 200-metre breaststroke final and also competing strongly in the individual medley and relay. Although she did not win a medal, the Commonwealth bronze medallist said she was pleased to finish on a high and credited Mona McSharry and Ellen Walshe with pushing her to improve. McCartney also expressed pride in representing Enniskillen and County Fermanagh.

Former Enniskillen Royal Boat Club rower Zoe McCutcheon won two silver medals for Great Britain at the World University Championships in London, Ontario. She and her partner finished second in the coxless pair behind the Netherlands, while the GB eight also took silver after a late surge past Italy, finishing 0.90 seconds behind the Dutch crew. The results build on McCutcheon’s previous gold medal in the GB eight and mark another significant achievement in her international rowing career.

More than half of the priests in the Diocese of Clogher are aged over 70, while only 15% are under 60, intensifying pressure on parish staffing. Bishop Larry Duffy announced retirements, a sabbatical and expanded parish responsibilities from September 1, alongside new appointments for priests from Nigeria and Ghana. The diocese is increasingly relying on international clergy, permanent deacons and lay ministers, while recent ordinations and interest in priestly vocations offer some hope.

Deborah Erskine criticizes Sinn Féin veteran Francie Molloy for linking objections to the proposed A5 road to land ownership dating back to the Plantation of Ulster. She argues that the historical explanation is an excuse for the project’s prolonged delays and says Sinn Féin, which runs Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Department, is shifting responsibility rather than delivering the road.

A community fun day in Derrylin raised money for Derrylin Parish Hall and Friends of the Cancer Centre. The event attracted a large crowd, with 40 people participating in a tractor-pulling challenge involving Derek’s Davy Brown tractor. Organizers thanked volunteers, local businesses, attendees, food providers, marshals and the PSNI for helping deliver the event safely.

Noreen McHugh, wife of Donegal GAA figure James McHugh, has died from injuries sustained in a collision between a car and a van on the N3 near Virginia, County Cavan. Her husband died shortly after the crash, meaning both victims have now died. Gardaí are investigating and are appealing for witnesses, dashcam footage and other information about the collision.

Gary Somerville recorded a hole-in-one on Dungannon Golf Club’s sixth hole during a busy period of competitions. Joe Cavlan won the Remembering Barry and Patsy event with 46 points, while other winners included Conor McCaughey for best gross score, Pauric Gallagher in the Wednesday Open, Tim McBride in the seniors’ event and Karen Hetherington in the Maeve McVeigh Trophy. The report also highlights strong performances by Dungannon’s women members, including winners at the weekly competition and a ladies’ away day at Kilkeel.

Lough Erne Golf Club won the Ulster South Jimmy Bruen title by defeating Ardglass at Letterkenny Golf Club. The team secured three of the four foursomes matches, with victories for Paul Ramsey and James Daly, Michael O’Kane and Richard Stuart, and Suresh Varma and Dermott Love. Captain Paul Ramsey praised the squad’s commitment and blend of youth and experience. Lough Erne will next face Forest Little, the Leinster North champions, in an All-Ireland quarter-final at Thurles Golf Club.

Jill Hamilton won Enniskillen Golf Club’s Lady Captain’s Day with a nett score of 65, ahead of Veronica Bogue and Barbara Thompson. The event, hosted by Lady Captain Tanya Cathcart, attracted about 130 members and guests and included numerous category, novelty and visitor prizes, followed by afternoon tea, a meal and entertainment. Raymond Brownlee won the men’s competition with 42 points.

A 13-metre Dutch barge carrying two people and two dogs ran aground in shallow water about two miles west of Kilmore Quay on Lough Erne. Carrybridge RNLI launched at the request of Belfast Coastguard, confirmed that everyone aboard was safe and that the vessel had suffered no water ingress, and remained with it until an independent recovery company refloated it. The barge then continued under its own power. RNLI volunteer press officer Chris Cathcart urged boat users to plan routes carefully, follow navigational charts, carry lifejackets and ensure they can call the Coastguard in an emergency.

Eighteen-year-old Milena Remedios from Enniskillen is continuing her fundraising for the Motor Neurone Disease Association by taking part in the Belfast half marathon with her friend Annabelle. She has already raised more than £10,000 through an Enniskillen 10K after her father, George, was diagnosed with MND in January. Milena says the support her family received from the charity inspired her to turn the distress caused by her father’s illness into efforts to help other families affected by the disease.

Emergency services responded to Portora Wharf in Enniskillen on Saturday, August 8, after a person died suddenly. Police, firefighters, ambulance crews and Coastguard personnel attended the waterfront. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said a post-mortem examination would be conducted and that the death was not being treated as suspicious; the circumstances remain undisclosed and inquiries are ongoing.

A woman in her 20s was airlifted to Sligo University Hospital after sustaining injuries in a three-vehicle collision on the N3 Ballyshannon–Belleek Road near Lissacholly. A man in his 40s and a woman in her 60s were treated at the scene as a precaution. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage.

Gardaí and emergency services attended a serious road traffic collision on the Belleek Road in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, reported on Saturday afternoon. The road was closed, and motorists were advised to approach cautiously and expect delays while the incident was dealt with. Further details were unavailable.

A man in his 40s remains in critical condition in hospital after a single-vehicle collision involving a black Suzuki motorcycle in the Lisnaskea Road area. Police and ambulance crews attended the scene, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland is appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or video footage to provide information.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has applied to install CCTV inside Cole’s Monument and on Plunkett’s Bandstand in Enniskillen after the heritage attraction was vandalised earlier this year. The council says the cameras are the best way to protect the monument and the public; the damage previously forced the postponement of guided tours and required repair work.

Police appealed for information to locate Louise, a woman last seen in Enniskillen who may have travelled to Omagh and had links to Carrickmore. She was described as approximately 5ft 4in tall with shoulder-length brown hair and wearing a navy hoodie, blue jeans and pink trainers. The article was updated to report that she had been found.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has spent more than £24,000 replacing around 700 throw lines damaged, stolen or thrown into rivers since their installation in March 2023. The Omagh Riverside Walk and Cycle Path has been particularly affected, with 248 lines replaced at a cost of approximately £8,500 since March 2025. Council chair Debbie Coyle warned that vandalism places a financial burden on ratepayers and could remove vital rescue equipment during emergencies. The council is working with partner agencies on water-safety awareness and urging the public to report damage or theft immediately.

Enniskillen retailer Malcolm Sloan says ongoing roadworks and the closure of Cornagrade Road are severely damaging trade during the town’s busiest summer and tourism period. He claims traffic delays are deterring visitors and shoppers, pushing some customers online, and creating difficulties for workers, tourists and local businesses. Sloan argues that the work should have been scheduled at night and says businesses were not adequately consulted. Enniskillen BID supports the concerns, reporting substantial lost trade over a Republic of Ireland bank holiday weekend and working with local representatives to seek better signage and traffic management from the Department for Infrastructure.

Former SDLP MLA Richie McPhillips is returning to electoral politics as an independent candidate for the Erne East District Electoral Area in the upcoming Fermanagh and Omagh District Council elections. His campaign priorities include improved healthcare and shorter waiting lists, investment in roads and infrastructure, support for local businesses, tourism development, and protection for rural communities.

Ronan King, a man in his 20s from Lurgan, was killed when a car and a 4x4 collided on the R232 at Fincashel near Pettigo, County Donegal. A female passenger in her 20s suffered serious injuries, while the 4x4 driver was taken to hospital for assessment. Gardaí are investigating, with the road closed for forensic examination and witnesses asked to provide information or camera footage.

Emergency services and Gardaí are responding to a serious two-vehicle collision on the R232 near Pettigo, County Donegal, which occurred shortly before 3 p.m. No information has yet been released about the number of people involved or any injuries.

Police identified 45-year-old Damien Paul Bintley of Holywood as the man who died after a two-vehicle collision on Crossowen Road in Clogher, County Tyrone. The crash involved an MG HS car and a Volvo lorry, and occurred at approximately 12:40 p.m. on July 31. Police are investigating and have appealed for witnesses or dash-cam footage.

A man in his 40s died after a collision between a white MG HS and a Volvo lorry on the Crossowen Road between Clogher and Augher in County Tyrone. Three other people were taken to hospital. The PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit is seeking witnesses or dash-cam footage, while MLA Deborah Erskine expressed condolences to the victim’s family and those affected.

A newly opened play park in Cavanaleck was vandalised when sections of its perimeter fencing were damaged. Temporary repairs have been made to keep the facility safe while permanent repairs are arranged. Those responsible for the park condemned the incident because repair costs place an unnecessary burden on public resources, and the matter has been reported to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Eight Enniskillen RFC players have been selected for Ulster’s Interprovincial Series squad. India Daley will captain Ulster for a second consecutive year, while Claire Boles, Moya Hill, Rebecca Beacom, Sophie Barrett, Leah Irwin, Lucy Thompson and Sophie Meeke also earned selection. Kelly Beacom was recognized for her involvement in the summer training panel, with the club saying the selections demonstrate the continued progress of its women’s section.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council acknowledged entering two employment-related confidential settlement agreements since 2022, costing up to £60,000 in public funds. The disclosure followed an FOI request and internal review pursued by Ulster Unionist councillor Mark Ovens, which found that the council's initial response relied on the wrong legal exemption and contained contradictions. Ovens criticized the authority's transparency and accountability, while the council said such agreements are used only in exceptional circumstances, comply with employment law and governance procedures, and take employee wellbeing into account.

Fermanagh swimmer Ellie McCartney won bronze in the women’s 200-metre breaststroke final at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The result added to her international medal collection, following two gold medals and a bronze at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games, and reinforced her status as one of Northern Ireland’s leading swimming prospects.

Enniskillen Rowing Club athletes won a series of silver medals at three international regattas. Acorn Cassidy helped Great Britain's women's coxed four take silver at the World Rowing Under-23 Championships, while Isabella Wright and Claire Walsh won silver for Ireland on both days of the Coupe de la Jeunesse in Switzerland. Abbey Wilson also coxed Ireland's girls' eight to silver behind England at the Home International Regatta in London, highlighting the club's strength in developing internationally competitive young rowers.

Fermanagh athletes Naoise McManus and Ryan Leonard won gold medals in major combat-sports competitions. Seventeen-year-old McManus claimed the senior title at the inaugural British Beach Wrestling Championships in Cleethorpes after recently winning bronze for Team GB in Sardinia, and she was re-selected for Great Britain's Under-20 Performance Pathway Squad. Leonard overcame an early injury at the NAGA tournament in Dublin to win the no-gi absolute division by submission, while also earning silver in the gi competition.

Enniskillen swimmers Jamie Lannon, Ellie Dunlop and Luke Lannon delivered strong performances at the Irish Summer National Youth and Senior Championships in Dublin, recording personal bests, national-final appearances and top finishes. Jamie was Ireland's second-fastest 18-year-old in the 100m breaststroke and ninth in the Senior A 200m breaststroke final, while Ellie finished fifth nationally in the 50m breaststroke. Luke reached an under-16 A final and two B finals. Enniskillen Lakelanders swimmers Darragh Collins, Ryan Mongan, Anton Neal and Conal Walker also achieved personal bests and contributed to a strong relay showing. The athletes train with Lurgan Swim Club in Craigavon because Enniskillen's new leisure centre remains under construction.

A motorist already disqualified from driving was arrested in the Omagh area after police allegedly recorded a breath-test reading more than three times the legal alcohol limit. PSNI officers from the Omagh and Enniskillen Road Policing Interceptor team stopped the van during Operation Lifesaver patrols and issued a warning about the potentially devastating consequences of drink-driving.

A 26-year-old van driver has been charged following a collision involving a Peugeot Partner and a quad bike on the Edergole Road in Omagh. A man in his 40s and an eight-year-old girl suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. The driver faces charges including driving with excess alcohol in his breath and two counts of causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving, and is due before Enniskillen Magistrates’ Court.

A 26-year-old van driver was arrested after a collision between a Peugeot Partner van and a quad bike on Edergole Road near Omagh. A man in his 40s and an eight-year-old girl suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. The driver was detained on suspicion of driving with excess alcohol and causing grievous bodily injury through careless driving while over the limit. The road was closed for several hours but has since reopened as police enquiries continue.

The Edergole Road in Omagh is closed at its junction with Edergole Avenue after a serious two-vehicle collision. The Police Service of Northern Ireland is advising motorists to avoid the area and use an alternative route while emergency services respond. Details about the cause of the collision and any injuries have not been released.

A man in his 40s was charged after Gardaí stopped a vehicle south of Carrickmacross during an operation targeting suspected dissident republican activity in County Monaghan. He is due to appear before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin, following the charging of a woman in her 20s in the same investigation. Gardaí said inquiries remain ongoing.

A woman in her 50s died after a car and truck collided on the R162 at Corclare near Shercock, County Cavan. A female child travelling in the car was taken to Temple Street Hospital in Dublin in critical condition, while other occupants received treatment at the scene. Gardaí closed the road for a forensic examination and appealed for witnesses and dash-cam footage.

Around 150 Unite members at Balcas in Enniskillen begin a week-long strike after rejecting a below‑inflation pay offer of 50 pence per hour over two years. The union argues that workers are underpaid and rely on overtime while the company, owned by Glennon Brothers, reports strong profits. Union leaders Sharon Graham and Albert Hewitt state that management has failed to improve its offer despite previous strikes, warning that the stoppage will disrupt timber supplies and insisting the company can afford better pay.

Erne Gaels beat Tourlestrane 2-20 to 2-13 in the Sligo Hurling Shield final, driven by Cormac Daly’s nine first‑half points and further scores from Eamon Óg Magee and Joe Ferguson. Tourlestrane’s Ruari Brennan scored 2-9 but his team could not close the gap as Erne Gaels maintained control and secured the season’s first trophy for Belleek.

Enniskillen split a Twenty20 double header against Lurgan, losing the first match after batting difficulties on a challenging pitch but responding strongly in the second with a dominant total of 201 and disciplined bowling. Key performances from Manji Gurung, Devin Carrihill, Satheesh Puthenveetil and Jaice Cherian secured a 67‑run victory to level the series. The team now prepares for a Development Cup quarter-final against NIMA Cricket Club.

Carrybridge RNLI crews responded to three incidents on Lough Erne over the weekend, assisting a grounded narrowboat, towing a disabled vessel with three people and a dog aboard, and locating an overdue boater during a nighttime search. All individuals involved were found safe, with one treated for cold exposure. Officials urged boaters to conduct proper safety checks and carry appropriate equipment.

Christopher Waldie received a Royal Humane Society Testimonial on Vellum for rescuing a drowning man near Crom in Newtownbutler. After calling emergency services, he entered cold, obstructed water to locate and recover the man, who was suffering from hypothermia. Emergency responders took over care once he returned the man to the jetty. Society secretary Andrew Chapman commended Waldie’s decisive actions, noting the likelihood that the man would not have survived otherwise. The article also outlines the long history and purpose of the Royal Humane Society as a leading national body recognising acts of life‑saving bravery.

Gardaí are seeking public assistance to locate 15‑year‑old Sean Flood from the Drummuck area of Cavan, missing since July 17. He is described as 5ft 3in, slim, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities express concern for his wellbeing and ask anyone with information to contact Cavan Garda Station, the Garda Confidential Line, or any Garda station.

A £175,000 resurfacing project will begin on the B80 Tattymoyle Road between Fintona and Tempo, covering a 545‑metre stretch and running from July 27 to August 1, weather permitting. Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the work reflects the department’s commitment to improving rural infrastructure. The road will be closed during the project, with a diversion in place, and motorists are advised to expect delays. Authorities will provide updates if conditions affect the schedule.

Police arrested a man in Coalisland following reports of a disturbance, detaining him on suspicion of assault causing actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon. A woman was cautioned on suspicion of dangerous driving and aiding and abetting the related offences. The PSNI thanked community members for their assistance, and enquiries remain ongoing.

Police are seeking information on the whereabouts of 13‑year‑old Alicia Galbraith, last seen on Castlehill Road in Brookeborough on Saturday afternoon. Officers expressed concern for her welfare and provided a description of her clothing and appearance. Anyone with information is urged to contact police quoting reference CW1063 of July 18, 2026.

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has filed appeal papers after being convicted at Newry Crown Court of 18 child sex offences, including rape, involving two victims abused during childhood. His solicitor John McBurney confirmed the appeal submission as Donaldson remains on remand at Maghaberry Prison in Lagan Valley.

Brian Telford has been appointed vice chair of the Western Health and Social Care Trust following the death of chair Tom Frawley, whose contribution was widely praised by board members. Chief executive Karen Hargan highlighted Telford’s experience and commitment, stressing the need for continuity as the Trust faces ongoing challenges. The organisation reiterated its respect for Frawley’s legacy while expressing support for Telford in his new leadership role.

Castlederg Road in Drumquin was closed after a single‑vehicle collision, with police advising motorists to avoid the area and expect delays while emergency services respond. No further details on the circumstances or injuries have been provided.

A body was discovered at Muckross Bay in Kesh, prompting an emergency response and a public appeal from DUP MLA Deborah Erskine for privacy for the bereaved family and for people to avoid speculation as enquiries continue. She expressed condolences and commended emergency services for their efforts.

A new multi‑disciplinary team service has been launched across GP practices in the South West, supported by a £61 million investment in primary care. The initiative introduces senior mental health practitioners and first contact physiotherapists, with social workers to join in 2026. Health leaders highlight improved access to specialist support, reduced pressure on GP appointments and enhanced care for rural communities. The Western Trust and South West GP Federation emphasise the milestone as part of broader efforts to modernise primary care and bring treatment closer to patients’ homes.