Donegal minister, Charlie McConalogue, has appealed to those following this weekend’s Wilton Donegal International Rally to keep themselves and others safe while out on the roads.
Speaking at the pre-briefing for competing crews in An Grianán Theatre in Letterkenny last night, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine said everyone had a part to play to making sure the 2024 Donegal International Rally is safe and enjoyable.
“We can all be really proud to be at the centre of rallying in the country this weekend. The Donegal International Rally is the best rally event of the year in Ireland and one that is renowned internationally as well,” he said.
“It is a huge logistical undertaking and I want to recognise all that is involved with the organising of the annual event by Donegal Motor Club Chairman, Brian Brogan, Clerk of the Course, Eamon McGee and the teams they have behind them.
“The Gardai play a huge role over the weekend under Chief Superintendent Goretti Sheridan and her teams, as do Donegal County Council who is represented by Garry Martin and Fáilte Ireland who is represented by Joan Crawford. The sponsors are also crucial to making this event happen every year,” Minister McConalogue added.
“Most of all, I’d like to welcome all the crews who will be competing over the next three days and those who are coming to the county to savour the wonderful event that is the Donegal International Rally. Enjoy it, be safe and it’s our great honour to have you here. I hope that the sun shines. I hope that luck shines on you as well and that everyone has a wonderful weekend.”
He added that Donegal is now Ireland’s only three-day rally and has massive benefits – it’s estimated that the Donegal International is worth €25 million to the local economy each year, while it also showcases the best that the county has offer.
“In the region of 70,000 spectators are expected to watch the event unfold over the next three days, while around 400,000 will watch it on television and online,” the Donegal minister commented.