Date: 04 Jul 2025
Blaney Family Honoured with Civic Reception for 100 Years of Continuous Political Representation on Donegal County Council

Donegal County Council honoured the Blaney Family on Friday evening (4th July 2025) at a Civic Reception at the County House, Lifford.
The Blaney Family was recognised for their achievement in honour of 100 years of continuous political representation on Donegal County Council, following the election of Neal Blaney to Donegal County Council in 1925 and subsequent elections to the council of family members Neil T. Blaney, Harry Blaney, Niall Blaney and Liam Blaney over the century that followed.
The ceremony was presided over by Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning and Chief Executive John G. McLaughlin.
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning was delighted to host this Civic Reception and said, “let us celebrate the achievements of the Blaney family who have had representation on Donegal County Council for 100 years from 1925 until the present day. This is not just a statistic it is a legacy of service to Fanad, the County of Donegal and the Donegal Dáil Constituency which is rooted in community, resilience and continuity.”
The Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John G. McLaughlin echoed this sentiment, “In celebrating this Civic Reception, proposed by Cllr. Coyle, today we celebrate the very essence of community and a tremendous legacy of representation of their people at both County and National level. I wish you all well in all your future endeavours in the political arena.”
Cllr Liam Blaney and Senator Niall Blaney were presented, on behalf of the Blaney Family, with an official scroll marking the occasion of the Civic Reception.
The Blaney Family thanked the Council for honouring them in this way and attendees were treated to refreshments after the event in the Lifford Old Courthouse.