Jimmy Harte needs no introduction. A former Letterkenny Town Councillor, county councillor, he is now a Labour Party Senator. He splits his time between Donegal and Dublin when he is not following the Irish soccer team around the world!
What is your favourite place in Donegal and why?
Carrick/ Teelin area where my wife is from. Beautiful scenery and a relaxing place to spend some time in.
If you could change one thing about Donegal what would it be?
To have a Donegal Diaspora invest in the county so that they can help employment and get a return on their money. I know the sentiment is out there to be tapped.
Who is the one person in Donegal that you look up to and why?
My Dad , after one year in the Senate I now appreciate how hard it was to be in Dail Eireann for 36 years and maintain his passion for politics and with my Mother rear a family of nine.
Daniel O’Donnell or Packie Bonner?
Both ! ( I’m firmly on the fence here )!!
What has been Donegal’s proudest moment in recent years?
Sept 2012 !! Croke Park
What was Donegal’s saddest moment?
The Inishowen road tragedy in 2010.
What is your favourite Donegal-made product?
Magees of Donegal. They are an international name and hand woven tweeds are the rage with the beautiful people !
Who is Donegal’s greatest ambassador around the world and why?
It has to be Daniel but Shay is a close second.
Who is Donegal’s most successful businessperson in your opinion?
I’d say Henry Mc Garvey who is MD of Prumerica and they employ around 900 in Letterkenny. He is also involved with other voluntary groups outside of work which is invaluable to the area.
Who is your favourite Donegal sportsperson of all time?
Shay Given has played at the highest level in the world and has never forgotten his roots. He has been outstanding. 125 caps for Ireland.
What is your favourite Donegal restaurant?
I enjoy the Yellow Pepper and it’s atmosphere, but there are a load of good spots to eat in the county. Experiment !
Donegal’s golden eagles or basking sharks?
Sharks !! I like sharks …
Your nomination for Donegal’s most stylish person?
When I look in the mirror I know there is a stylish person bursting to get out ! But it has to be Noel Cunningham !! ( he might mention me on TV 3 now )
What is your favourite Donegal saying or expression?
As they would say in the Lagan, ” houl your tongue”
Will Donegal win the All Ireland this year?
I think so. They are the team to beat and I can’t see anyone as fit and organised as Jim’s men.
What is your favourite Donegal food?
Any fish dish, especially salmon with a glass of white wine
Is there anything that really annoys you about Donegal or its people?
Motorists who don’t give runners and cyclists consideration
If you had a million euro to spend on improving something in Donegal, what would it be?
Put a million euro into Finn Harps and help get them into European football. The county would be well marketed in Europe and the potential to host Barca or a Liverpool would be a great return on the investment
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