A free talk on Iníon Dubh – The ‘Dark Daughter’ of Tír Chonaill – will take place at Donegal Castle this Saturday for International Women’s Day.

Lady Finola MacDonnell (c. 1565 – c. 1611), better known as Iníon Dubh, was the mother of both Aodh Ruadh Ó Domhnaill II (Red Hugh O’Donnell II) and his brother Rory, 1st Earl of Tyrconnell.

A native of the Isle of Islay, she became the second wife of Sir Aodh mac Maghnusa Ó Domhnaill (Sir Hugh McManus O’Donnell; c. 1520 – 1600), the King of Tír Chonaill.

She was a significant player in her own right in Ulster affairs during the late sixteenth-century.

The public is invited to visit Donegal Castle on Saturday 8th March at 2pm to hear a short talk on this woman who had great influence in the final years of Gaelic Ulster.

The event is free. However, booking is essential. To book, simply email Donegal Castle (donegalcastle@opw.ie) or phone (074) 9722405 (from the North: (0035374) 9722405

The talk is part of a series of tours and talks recognising remarkable women and their achievements for International Women’s Day at various Office of Public Works (OPW) locations.

This initiative aims to promote and celebrate the stories of inspiring Irish women associated with our heritage sites.

Rosemary Collier, Head of Heritage Services and Capital Works Delivery at the OPW, said: “International Women’s Day provides a platform to reflect on progress and recognise the advancement of women worldwide. We are delighted to showcase the contributions of women in our society throughout history and celebrate their impact on our cultural heritage.”

For more information and a full list of events see links below or visit www.heritageireland.ie.