Donegal’s homecoming furore

A huge row has erupted among Donegal GAA fans about where the team’s All-Ireland homecoming will take place.

Jim McGuinness’ team are favourites to lift the Sam Maguire after terrific displays this season. The team has always followed tradition and celebrated homecomings with a parade at The Diamond in Donegal Town.

But now the people of Letterkenny feel that should change and the homecoming should take place in their town.

Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce has contacted the Donegal GAA County Board to request the county team return to their town after the All-Ireland SFC final against Mayo.

In a strongly-worded letter, the Letterkenny Chamber said they felt it was now time for a Donegal team to celebrate in Letterkenny.

President of Letterkenny Chamber John Watson admitted businesses had been lobbied on the issue.

He said: “We feel the time is right now that Letterkenny could be the place for the team to return to.

“We will welcome the team back with or without the Sam Maguire after the final and it won’t cost the County Board a cent.

“For years the team has returned to Donegal Town and we feel it’s time that Letterkenny got a turn.

“We are the biggest town in the county and a number of businesses from the area have sponsored the team in recent years. We feel it would be a nice touch if the homecoming could be shared around and we would like to do it after the All-Ireland final.”

However the move has divided fans who have accused the Letterkenny Chamber of trying to cash in on the Donegal’s team’s whirlwind success.

A spokesman for the County Board said it will discuss the matter shortly and give the Letterkenny Chamber an answer to their request.