BY CRONAN SCANLON
INVESTMENTS in property, land, shares and a toy tractor were held by a number of Donegal TD's according to the Register of Interests of Members of Dáil Eireann for 2006 which was published this week.
However, two Donegal North East TD's, Niall Blaney and Cecilia Keaveney declared that they had no interests or income other their Dáil wages.
Minister Mary Coughlan declared a gift of an "ornamental first edition tractor" which was donated by Tinney's Ltd, Letterkenny. However, it was noted that she in turn donated her tractor to the Department of Agriculture and Food.
Minister Pat the Cope Gallagher had the largest portfolio among the Donegal TD's with interests in land and shares and an income from forestry.
The Register revealed he owned shares in: Vodafone; Davy Bes Fund (manufacturing; shares): (1) 2003; (2) 2004; (3) 2005; (4) 2006: Mount Views Film: Film productions; (2) Aviva PLC, 1 Undershaft, London: life assurance and Mapel Film Productions: film productions.
It also showed that he owned almost 60 acres of forestry land in Dungloe.
Dr James McDaid declared his occupational Income as being a part-time medical doctor at Castle Street, Letterkenny and other part-time work as a GP.
Under the heading of 'property and service' was his constituency office at Noel McGinley's Garage, Pearse Road, Letterkenny.
Deputy Dinny McGinley registered an interest in 20 acres of "unused" land at, Magheralosk, Knockastoller.
Dr McDaid was the only Donegal TD to receive a mention in the annual list of donations for 2006 which was also released this week by the Standards in Public Office Commission.
Dr McDaid availed of the use of a constituency office to the value of ¤10,400 which was donated by Mr Noel McGinley of McGinley Motors, Pearse Road, Letterkenny.
Meanwhile, a Bundoran man, Mr Thomas Cassidy, made a donation of ¤2,000 last year to Sinn Fein TD Martin Ferris.
