Donal is a native of Wexford, he left there at the age of 19 to join the army where he served for 22 years, In that time he settled in Newbridge with his wife Patricia and their two daughters. He studded theology in All Hallows and was awarded a BA (hons) In Pastoral Ministry, followed by further study in Catechises in Maryvale in Birmingham.

He was appointed to the parish team September 2011.