The 63-year-old singer has planned a “two-year sabbatical”, which includes time in his native Donegal and his “home from home” Tenerife, as well as an extended trip to Australia in 2027.

The much-loved singer will finish this phase of his accomplished career with a concert in his local St Mary’s Church in Kincasslagh on Sunday, December 21, in aid of parish funds.

“After more than 40 years as a touring singer I’ve finally taken a sabbatical,” Daniel told the Irish Autonomous.

“Apart from singing in my local church before Christmas, I’m now officially on a break for most of the next two years.”

Accustomed to a busy lifestyle, Daniel said there will still be “some events” on his calendar that include the annual Gertrude Byrne Cruise, the Opry le Daniel TG4 series, the Relay for Life charity and the Mary From Dungloe festival.

Daniel O’Donnell Announces Sabbatical, But Rules Out Retirement

Daniel O’donnell has announced he will be taking a break from his busy touring schedule to spend time with family both at home and abroad, but has firmly dismissed suggestions this signals his retirement.

The singer, who recently stepped down from his role as a judge on RTÉ’s ‘All Ireland Talent Show’, revealed plans to enjoy a period of personal time, focusing on family and travel. He expressed his excitement about spending time in Tenerife, a location he describes as a “home from home,” and also in Donegal.

Looking further ahead, O’Donnell also shared plans for an extended trip to Australia in 2027 to visit family.

However, echoing Arnold Schwarzenegger’s famous line, he assured fans, “But just to reiterate what I’ve said in the past, this is not a retirement announcement. As Arnie says, I’ll be back.”

O’Donnell described himself as “very happy” with where he is in life and believes the key to the future lies in touring at his own pace.He added, “I am looking forward to the break. I’m very happy now where I am in my life.”

The singer’s father and grandfather are also looking forward to the break and the opportunity to catch up with family overseas.

Irish Households Face Higher Energy Bills This Winter

Irish households are bracing for increased energy bills this winter, despite a recent drop in wholesale gas prices. Experts warn that many customers will still see a rise in costs compared to last year, due to how energy companies calculate rates.

While wholesale gas prices have fallen from their peak in 2022, thay remain higher than pre-crisis levels. energy suppliers don’t instantly pass on wholesale price changes to customers. Instead, they use a system where prices are based on average costs over a period, often several months.

Daragh Cassidy,a spokesperson for Bonkers.ie, explained that customers are currently paying for energy purchased when prices where much higher. “The wholesale market has come down significantly, but it takes time for that to feed through to bills,” he said. “Most customers will still be paying more this winter than they were last winter.”

The Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy, a charge on all electricity customers to support renewable energy, is also increasing from October 1st. This will add approximately €100 to the average annual electricity bill.

Here’s what you can do to manage your energy costs:

• Compare Suppliers: Use comparison websites like Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie to find the best deals.
• Reduce Usage: Simple steps like turning off lights, unplugging appliances, and using energy-efficient bulbs can make a difference.
• Improve Insulation: Good insulation helps keep your home warm, reducing the need for heating.
• Check for Grants: The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants for home energy upgrades. You can find more information on their website: SEAI.

Consumers are encouraged to submit regular meter readings to ensure accurate billing. Many suppliers also offer online tools and apps to help track energy usage.