Members of Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh’s family and friends who spent the weekend in Tralee with her; Tanya Bulakh (Artur’s mother), Aoife Ní Choiligh, Milo O’Coiligh, Artur Kowlaski (Caoilfhinn’s partner), Sorcha Ní Choiligh, Shea O’Coiligh and Jade McFadden Cambridge (Shea’s partner).

Proud father and family spent festival in Tralee

Brian O'Loughlin

Published: Fri 28 Aug 2026, 8:30 AM

Milo Coiligh is a proud father as his daughter Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh is the 2026 Rose of Tralee. Milo and various members of the family spent the festival weekend in Kerry, and while they had a great time and praised the organisation of the festival, they didn’t see much of Caoilfhinn, as she was so busy.

He said he was a bit apprehensive before heading south as he didn’t know what to expect, but the family were allocated an apartment as their base, and “it was great, because we were here with all the other contestants, we were able to talk to them and bond with the other daddies, and they were all working-class men, just like myself.

“There was a lot going on, the whole town was in festival mode – I didn’t realise it was such a big thing, this whole town organised around us [everyone connected with the festival], it was a major event. It reminded me of the fleadh, though I’m not saying it was as big, but I’m saying that’s the way the town was organised, it just takes over the town.

“Even now, thinking back, it was very exciting. The pitch kept rising all the time, and then, Caoilfhinn coming out, I was apprehensive – how was she going to be on stage, I was worried about how she was doing with all that.”

Milo didn’t need to worry and he is proud of his daughter, and of all his children, he was quick to point out when talking to the Examiner. Present with Milo were Aoife, Shea and Sorcha. Caoilfhinn’s mother Michelle was there on Tuesday to enjoy the celebration.