Latest news with #Dáithí
Belfast Telegraph
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Belfast Telegraph
In pictures: ‘Fantastic' fun day in west Belfast as families enjoy colour run
Adding a splash of colour to the Féile festival, the annual colour run – part of the Upper Springfield Fun Day – took place in the Falls Park on Friday. The run was set on its way by Dáithí Mac Gabhann, as participants dashed, danced, and strolled through the park while being splashed in a kaleidoscope of powders—mirroring the cheerful, community-spirited message at the heart of Féile an Phobail. Belfast boy Dáithí – who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndromes – is well known for successfully campaigning to change Northern Ireland's organ donation laws, having been on the heart transplant waiting list since 2018. The organisers of the run posted to say it was a day of 'brilliant craic,' adding: 'Fantastic event for all ages at Falls Park, well done to all participants.' Sinn Fein MP for west Belfast Paul Maskey, said: 'What an amazing event! 'The Upper Springfield events team always put on a fantastic fun day and colour run as part of their Féile an Phobail event. 'Great to be part of it today.' Beginning in 1988, Féile has grown into Ireland's largest community arts festival. The festival will celebrate the 5th consecutive year that no bonfires were built in predominantly nationalist areas of west Belfast. It comes as 12,000 mostly young people are due in the Falls Park on Friday night for the annual 'dance night', designed to deter young people away from creating bonfires on August 8th. The event will bring together a host of local and international DJs, including Matty Ralph, NIFRA, Paul Van Dyk and Will Atkinson – among others. The Falls Park has hosted several headline events last week, including Féile Country Fest featuring Nathan Carter and The Whistlin' Donkeys.
Irish Examiner
27-07-2025
- General
- Irish Examiner
Dear Dáithí: 'We have screen time limits for our daughter — should we do the same thing for her dad?'
Dear Dáithí, I'm worried about how much time my husband spends on his phone, it seems like it's glued to his hand 24/7. When our alarm goes off in the morning he's already scrolling through social media. He has his eye on it during every family meal or conversation and in the evening after we put our daughter to bed he's constantly looking at TikToks on the couch while we're supposed to be watching Netflix together. He works from home for his job so I know he's using it while working too, I can hear the videos playing from another room when he's between meetings. This probably seems like a trivial complaint because he's a great husband and a hands-on dad too. He always spends time with our little girl, playing with her or teaching her to tie her laces, how to read, and so on. He loves making memories with her and he's so devoted to us both. And I don't think he's texting other women or anything like that! I'm worried that he's actually addicted to his phone and that he's accidentally setting a bad example for our four-year-old. We have screen time limits for her with her tablet and the television — should we do the same thing for her dad? How can I talk to him about my concerns without sounding silly? It certainly seems that your husband is using his phone like a third arm, and it will be no surprise to anyone because this is happening in every house in Ireland. We all do it and it's never a problem until it is a problem. And not alone is this bothering you, but you think that it will influence your daughter... and you are 100% correct. Young children pick up so much of what they see especially from their parents and that is why we need to be careful and mindful of our own actions. I'm happy though that he's not texting other women and we don't have to go down that road. If he starts going to Coldplay concerts, I'd start getting worried! It does look like everything else in your relationship is going great. He is a great husband and dad. You really can't beat a dad who loves making memories and who gets stuck into all the small stuff and showing a good example. But that good example must continue into his phone usage too, especially these days and all we know about the effects of screen time on children. And really the earlier this is in place the better and easier it will be because if she gets in a different screen routine it will be harder to get the device off her. The screen time rule is in the house already but it only applies to her and not to you two and I would agree with this until it becomes an issue. Now it sounds like it mightn't be a problem yet, so therefore the rule should only apply to her, but this will have to change if your husband continues like he is. This could cause problems between you both, so be ready for that one. Dear Dáithí: "I'm worried that my husband is actually addicted to his phone and that he's accidentally setting a bad example for our four-year-old. We have screen time limits for her with her tablet and the television — should we do the same thing for her dad?" As much as I like the sound of your husband, when it comes to you both watching Netflix, he is giving you his time but more importantly he's not giving you his presence. In other words, his mind is somewhere else. You may as well be watching it alone. I think this happened over time and he didn't sit down one day and make a conscious decision about this. So he just needs to be aware of it and remember we all do this all the time, but a little reminder is called for here. One thing about working from home is that you don't have anyone looking over your shoulder so really you can pick up the phone as often as you want which can lead to doing so automatically and without even noticing — and with that you form a habit and I think this is what has happened. It's a habit he has formed over time, but it needs to be knocked on the head, he needs to break the cycle. For himself as much as anything else. This stuff fries your brain without you even knowing it, so there are many good reasons to do this. So how do you approach this? Well, you know him better than anyone else — and remember this is not a big fight — it's a conversation about screen time and asking him if you both spend too much time on the phones. You should check on your own phone how much time you spend on it and ask him to do the same... he might get a shock to learn how much he does. You need to be honest too and say that you think your daughter might pick up this bad habit and to be mindful of that. This could well come down to introducing a few rules like 'no phones in the kitchen and living room for everyone', but you both must buy into this if that happens. I think you must lead by example here before he puts up some resistance. I just think the whole internet thing and kids is a really frightening place to be and we really need to do all we can on this front. So to answer your question, you are certainly not being silly by approaching this subject and you are acting like every parent should when it comes to this. It is so easy to hand them a tablet and let them off, but what are the long-term consequences? Then, when you have everyone off their devices how about getting everyone out of the house to create more memories. Again, I think you need to lead this, I wouldn't tell them that you've planned this, just like it came into your head that morning and out you go to the beach or park walk or up a hill for the day. Go one further than just getting away from screens. The energy you all will get will be tremendous and what an example you will be setting!
Irish Daily Mirror
16-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
Irish men three times more likely than women to skip suncream despite skin damage risk
New research carried out by Lidl Ireland has revealed that men are less likely than women to follow sun safety guidance, with suncream usage worryingly low across all age groups. The survey uncovered that 17% of Irish men aged 55+ admit to never using suncream, compared to just 6% of Irish women in the same age group. A significant difference is also seen when it comes to regular use during sunny months, with only 3 in 10 men (34%) over 55 using suncream regularly, compared to 1 in 2 women (52%) of the same age. Despite growing awareness of the dangers of UV exposure, only 8% of the population are following expert sun protection advice of applying suncream every two hours or more frequently - putting themselves at increased risk of premature ageing, sun damage and skin cancer. The research highlights that a significant number of men, particularly younger adults and frequent sunbathers, admit to skipping suncream in pursuit of a tan. Additional results showed that 36% of Irish people admit to sunbathing regularly. Of the 35% of the population that don't use sunscreen frequently, over half of this group believe they don't need suncream unless they're in direct sunlight or experiencing high temperatures. Lidl Ireland, along with campaign ambassador and TV presenter Dáithí Ó'Sé is calling on men of all ages to change the narrative around suncream, starting with simple, daily habits that could save their skin and their health in the long run. REPRO FREE: Lidl's campaign ambassador Dáithí Ó Sé is pictured launching new research revealing that nearly 1 in 4 Irish people rarely or never use suncream, and 1 in 3 only apply it on sunny days or abroad. As part of Lidl Ireland's mission to encourage better sun safety habits, the campaign highlights the importance of daily protection, rain or shine. With Cien sun protection available in all 186 Lidl stores nationwide, protecting your skin has never been easier or more affordable. Picture Andres Poveda Dáithí experienced first-hand the consequences of inadequate sun protection when, in 2023, he discovered a sun-damage related lump that required removal. Dáithí is lending his voice to the campaign to highlight the importance of daily use of suncream and to assist in encouraging men to take proactive steps in safeguarding their skin. Commenting on the importance of suncream use Dáithí said, 'When Lidl reached out about this campaign, I knew I had to help get involved and share my experience so I can hopefully get the message out there that everyone needs to protect their skin, even the men. It was a scary experience when I got the news about my lump and I wouldn't wish that on anyone, the fear eats away at you. "People often think that the sun can't really do too much damage, but it can and it does. You need to be using suncream every day even on cloudy days when you think the sun can't reach you. I really like Lidl's Cien sports range for when I'm out and about whether I'm at a shoot or pacing the sidelines at a match. The travel size range is also really handy for when I'm on the go for work as they're compact sizes that I can keep in the car or my suitcase without taking up too much space.' Lidl's own suncream range Cien is formulated to match the quality of more expensive sun products, as seen in the recent Which? UK survey that tested 15 popular suncreams, using industry recognised methods. It protects skin at a fraction of the cost with prices starting from just €1.99 making it easier, more affordable and more accessible than ever for consumers to acquire high-quality SPF and help look after their skin. REPRO FREE: Lidl's campaign ambassador Dáithí Ó Sé is pictured launching new research revealing that nearly 1 in 4 Irish people rarely or never use suncream, and 1 in 3 only apply it on sunny days or abroad. As part of Lidl Ireland's mission to encourage better sun safety habits, the campaign highlights the importance of daily protection, rain or shine. With Cien sun protection available in all 186 Lidl stores nationwide, protecting your skin has never been easier or more affordable. Picture Andres Poveda But how do we use suncream to get the best out of it and protect our skin properly? Skincare expert Simone Gannon shares her tips on best practice when it comes to protecting our skin. 'Nearly a quarter of Irish people say they rarely or never use suncream, and the most likely to skip it? Men over 55 and men aged 18-35. Not great, lads! We might not have Mediterranean summers, but Irish skin is incredibly prone to UV damage, even on cloudy days.' she said. According to Simone, the reality is that even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause long-term skin damage - that damage builds up over time and leads to premature ageing, uneven texture, sunspots and more seriously, skin cancer - so daily sun protection really is essential for long-term skin health. She advises that it is important to apply a sufficient amount, reapply regularly and select a suncream product that you find enjoyable to use and that suits your skin. Finding a product that you genuinely like will increase the likelihood of consistent usage. 'Lidl's Cien sun protection range has been quietly offering solid, broad-spectrum protection for years and now the formulas are better than ever, moisturising and fragrance free with everything from sensitive skin face creams to spray-on options and they're all under €6. Sun protection should be part of everyone's daily routine, not just on holidays. Men, next time you're doing your weekly Lidl shop, make sun protection a priority. The selection is vast, the price point is low, and your future skin will thank you.' REPRO FREE: Lidl's campaign ambassador Dáithí Ó Sé is pictured launching new research revealing that nearly 1 in 4 Irish people rarely or never use suncream, and 1 in 3 only apply it on sunny days or abroad. As part of Lidl Ireland's mission to encourage better sun safety habits, the campaign highlights the importance of daily protection, rain or shine. With Cien sun protection available in all 186 Lidl stores nationwide, protecting your skin has never been easier or more affordable. Picture Andres Poveda Simone recommends breaking down the basics: Suncream should be applied every morning - rain, shine, or anything in between. Reapply every two hours - especially if you're outdoors, sweating or swimming. Use a full teaspoon for your face and neck and around a shot glass for your body. Don't forget ears, scalp, backs of hands and feet if you're wearing sandals. Simone's Suncream Top Picks from Lidl's Cien range include: For daily face protection If you want something lightweight that's comfortable under makeup, try: Sensitive Face Suncream SPF50+ (50ml, €2.99) Fragrance-free, non-greasy, doesn't clog. A really great everyday option. Ultra-Sensitive Sun Milk SPF50+ (250ml, €5.49) For those who react to everything. This one's an excellent all-over option too. For sport and sweat and the 'I hate sticky suncream' crowd Sun Spray Sport SPF30 (200ml, €3.99) Non-greasy, doesn't sting your eyes if you're running or sweating (and it's ice-cold on application, too. Very refreshing) - one of the better sport formulas under €5. Sun Oil Spray SPF20 (250ml, €5.99) Lightweight, comfortable, not sticky. Not for high UV days but nice for evening wear or quick top-ups. For adults who hate suncream (but good for kids too) Roll-On Kids SPF50 (50ml, €3.49) A very handy format with no mess, no arguments. Just make sure to apply liberally to get the right amount of protection. Kids Suncream Spray SPF50+ (150ml, €3.99) Quick and easy (and fun! Who doesn't love using a spray?). No excuses with this one. Sensitive Kids Spray SPF50+ (200ml, €4.49) Great for eczema-prone little ones or post-pool skin. Sinks in quickly, too. Suncream Kids SPF50 (100ml, €2.99) A handbag/buggy/schoolbag staple. The key for many adults, and to help it form more of a habit for men, is to make it part of the morning routine. Put the suncream near the toothpaste in the bathroom or leave it at the front door and keep a spare bottle in the car. For the planet-conscious Love Your Planet SPF30 (150ml, €4.99) Reef-safe, better for oceans, and doesn't feel like a compromise. Solid protection in a greener package. Post-sun? Don't forget this Even if you're diligent, sun + wind + sea + suncream removal = skin that needs soothing. Après Sun Aloe Vera Gel (250ml, €2.49) Cooling, hydrating, great after the beach or sunburn slip-ups. Smells great, too. Keep it in the fridge.' Lidl's Cien suncare range is available in all Lidl Ireland stores nationwide now, with prices starting from just €1.99. For more information or to see the latest instore promotions please visit
Irish Post
01-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Post
Young organ donation campaigner honoured at President Higgins' garden party
YOUNG organ donation campaigner Dáithí Mac Gabhann was a guest of the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins at a garden party held at Áras an Uachtaráin over the weekend. The eight-year-old, who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, was among the special guests for the Family Day party on June 29. It is thought to be one of the last few garden parties that will be hosted by the President before he completes his term in November. Awaiting a heart transplant since January 2018, Dáithí and his Belfast-based family have successfully campaigned to change the law around organ donation in Northern Ireland to a soft opt-out system. Named in his honour, Dáithí's Law came into effect on June 1, 2023. Their successful Donate4Dáithí campaign was celebrated at the party, where President Higgins paid tribute to Dáithí in his speech. 'It's hard to put into words how proud we are to have been invited to Áras an Uachtaráin,' Dáithí's dad Máirtín Mac Gabhann, who is the spokesperson for the campaign, told The Irish Post. 'To stand there, as a family, representing our campaign, and to hear President Higgins acknowledge Dáithí, the campaign, and the law change in his speech, we were blown away,' he added. 'We've always said this campaign is about community, compassion and change,' he explained. '[This] was a reminder that if any campaign or cause keeps going; that even the smallest of voices can be heard all the way to the highest office in the country.' Each year, President Higgins and wife Sabina have hosted a series of garden parties to celebrate the work of people and organisations who have been active in projects and areas that are central to his presidency. The parties continue a tradition established by past presidents, which welcomes people from all over the island of Ireland to Áras an Uachtaráin, its house and gardens.
Belfast Telegraph
30-05-2025
- Sport
- Belfast Telegraph
Bill Clinton writes to ‘amazing' NI boy awaiting heart transplant: ‘Our world would be better if there were more people like you'
Dáithí Mac Gabhann has been on the heart transplant waiting list since 2018 and his family have tirelessly campaigned for the legislation on organ donation to be changed to help increase the number of donors. The Organ and Tissue Donation (Deemed Consent) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, is known as named in 'Dáithí's Law' in recognition of the young boy. He was granted the Freedom of the City of Belfast in 2023 and celebrated at Belfast City Hall – becoming the youngest ever recipient of this honour. Over the years he has received support from celebrities, including Newcastle United FC legend Alan Shearer, Man United star Marcus Rashford and TV presenter Vernon Kay who hosted the ceremony for the Sunday Life Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards where Dáithí was honoured. A post on Donate4Dáithí on X (formerly known as Twitter) said 'it's not every day a letter comes through door in Ballymurphy from a former US President'. A letter from the ex-President who is credited for his role in the NI peace process came on paper headed, 'William Jefferson Clinton'. It states: 'Your dad wrote to tell me about your recent visit to City Hall, to see your name listed among the freemen of Belfast. 'I'm so proud to share that honour with someone as amazing as you. As someone who's had heart surgery myself, I know how scary it can be, and I'm so impressed by the bravery you've shown throughout your life. 'I'm also deeply inspired by the way you and your family have worked hard to make positive change across Northern Ireland. 'Our world would be better if there were more people like you. I hope I'll have the chance to meet you and your family the next time I'm in Belfast. 'Until then, keep up your great work, and know that you have a big fan pulling for you in New York.' Lots of people commented on the post, with one person saying: 'Amazing Dáithí, such a lovely letter. I hope you get to meet Bill Clinton.' Others described Dáithí as a 'special' and 'amazing wee boy' saying it was 'lovely to see'.
