Posted online: Feb 3rd, 2010

Mairéad Ni Mhaonaigh has described being named Donegal Person of the Year 2009 as the “biggest honour I’ve ever received in my life.”

The Gaoth Dobhair songstress was announced as the winner at a Donegal Association function in Dublin last Thursday night.
“My mother was absolutely delighted when I told her about it. I love Donegal and I always boast about it,” was Mairéad’s initial reaction.
“This year is Áltan’s 25th anniversary and getting this award for me is just the crowning glory – it’s the icing on the cake. I am so looking forward to the presentation night in Dublin. We have a lot of musical friends coming along and we hope to have many stars from Donegal. It really is such an honour and I am very grateful to the Donegal Association.”
The award coincides with her band Altan’s 25th year anniversary, and saw Mairéad beat off some illustrious competition. In what has already been a fantastic year for her professionally; Mairéad has also been nominated for this year’s Meteor Awards in the Best Folk/Trad section.
Following the announcement the association paid tribute to the qualified primary school teacher with a glowing citation for the Gaoth Dobhair native.
“Mairéad has played a unique role in promoting traditional Irish music to the world stage and Áltan are celebrating 25 years in the music business this year. Mairéad has been nominated at this year’s Meteor Awards in the Best Folk/Traditional category which will be held on the 19th February.
“She formed the band Áltan together with the late Frankie Kennedy and the band’s success has brought them to the world stage with their unique Donegal music.
“Although Maireád lost Frankie to cancer in 2004, she continued with the band at his request and now The Frankie Kennedy winter school attracts musicians and tourism to the local area from around the world.”
Mairéad will be inaugurated as Donegal Person of the Year 2009 at the annual Gala dinner in the Burlington Hotel, Dublin on Saturday February 27 at 8.30pm.

Among those in the running were: Oideas Gael director and chairperson of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Liam Ó Cuinneagáin, Gleann Cholm Cille; Republic of Ireland and Manchester city goalkeeper, Shay Given, Lifford; renowned artist and hotelier, Johnny Boyle, Glenties and All-Ireland winning captain and businessman, Anthony Molloy, Ardara.