Clara company raises €236,200 for Ataxia charity

A charity gala hosted by Errigal Group at its headquarters in Clara, outside Emyvale, Co Monaghan has raised an impressive €236,200 for Ataxia Foundation Ireland.

The black-tie event, held on September 5 as part of the company’s long-running fundraising efforts, welcomed almost 290 guests from across Ireland and the UK for an evening of networking, entertainment and fundraising in support of people and families affected by ataxia.

Hosted by GAA Social podcast presenter Thomas Niblock, the gala featured guest speakers including Mayo footballer Padraig O’Hora and Cork campaigner Craig Coady, whose family’s experience with Friedreich’s Ataxia has touched people across the country.

Mr Coady’s campaign for access to the drug Skyclarys, which can slow the progression of Friedreich’s Ataxia, recently helped secure HSE approval for reimbursement of the treatment for the estimated 200 patients nationwide. During the gala, guests heard his family’s story through a specially recorded video interview filmed by Mr Niblock at the Coady home shortly after the HSE’s announcement. Mr Coady’s eldest son Rory sadly died from the condition in September 2025. His younger son Paudie, who also suffers with the condition will now benefit from the HSE’s decision to reimburse the life enhancing Skyclarys drug.

Speaking to the Anglo-Celt, Errigal Group’s People and Culture Director Martina Corrigan said the company has supported Ataxia Foundation Ireland since 2018 and were committed to the cause long before the condition came into the national spotlight.

“Every two years we hold this gala and all the proceeds go to Ataxia Foundation Ireland,” she said.

Ms Corrigan said the charity was chosen because the condition has affected relatives of company co-owner Damian Treanor.

“Some of Damian’s cousins have the disease, so it has always been very close to the business. Two of his cousins attended the event, including one who travelled from America. Both were diagnosed as children.”

Guests gathered for a drinks and canapé reception before moving to a marquee for dinner, interviews and discussions. Mr O’Hora spoke about his career with Mayo and his successful climb of Mount Everest in aid of suicide prevention charities.

A charity auction conducted by TV personality Adrian Logan proved a major highlight of the evening, with nine items going under the hammer.

“Between the auction and table donations we raised almost €236,200. To raise that amount of money in just five hours is mind-blowing,” said Ms Corrigan.

She paid tribute to everyone who supported the event.

“We’re still in total shock at the amount of money raised. It was only possible because of the support of everybody who attended.”

Founded 30 years ago by business partners Damien Treanor and Cormac McCloskey, Errigal Group employs more than 400 people and has been based at its Clara headquarters for the past 12 years.

Ms Corrigan also praised the commitment of the company’s owners to charitable causes.

“Only for Damien and Cormac, it wouldn’t happen either. They’ve put a lot of work behind it and are hugely supportive of fundraising initiatives.”

In addition to supporting Ataxia Foundation Ireland, Errigal regularly assists other community projects, including fundraising efforts for Errigal Truagh Special Needs School.

The gala’s latest success will provide a significant boost to Ataxia Foundation Ireland as it continues its work supporting individuals and families living with the neurological condition.