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Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning

Joana Ruffo
PO Box 1134 Ashland, Oregon 97520
Contractor's Bio

Mold Remediation in Eugene, OR

Mold Remediation in Eugene is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Mold can develop quickly in damp areas, posing serious health risks to you and your family. Whether it's due to a leaky roof, flooding, or high humidity, addressing mold issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your property and ensure the safety of your loved ones.

At Disaster Response, we understand the urgency of mold problems. Our team of experts is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to identify and eliminate mold effectively. We conduct thorough inspections to assess the extent of the mold growth and develop a tailored remediation plan that addresses your specific needs. Our goal is to restore your home to a safe and healthy condition as quickly as possible.

Mold can not only damage your property but also lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. That's why our mold remediation services in Eugene focus on not just removing the visible mold but also addressing the underlying moisture issues that allow mold to thrive. We take a comprehensive approach to ensure that your home is not only mold-free but also protected against future infestations.

Choosing Disaster Response means you're opting for professionalism and expertise in mold remediation. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that your home is safe and comfortable. Don't let mold compromise your health and property—contact us today for a thorough assessment and effective remediation solutions tailored to your needs.

Disaster Response, The Authority on Eugene Mold Remediation

Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Eugene, OR, can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice becomes clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively eliminating mold and restoring your home or business to a safe environment. Our dedicated team understands the health risks associated with mold exposure and is committed to providing thorough and efficient remediation services.

Disaster Response

At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to identify and remove mold from your property. Our experts conduct comprehensive inspections to assess the extent of the mold problem, ensuring that no hidden spores are left behind. We prioritize your safety and well-being, employing environmentally friendly products that are safe for both your family and the planet.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just mold removal. We also focus on preventing future mold growth by addressing the underlying causes, such as moisture issues and inadequate ventilation. Our team provides valuable advice on maintaining a mold-free environment, empowering you to take proactive steps in safeguarding your property.

Like the iconic landmarks in Eugene, OR, we stand as a beacon of hope for those facing mold challenges. Our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction set us apart in the mold remediation industry.

As true specialists in Eugene mold remediation, we focus exclusively on the following services

  • Comprehensive Mold Inspections
  • Mold Removal and Cleanup
  • Air Quality Testing
  • Moisture Control Solutions
  • Preventative Treatments
  • Structural Drying and Dehumidification
  • Post-Remediation Verification
  • Emergency Response Services
  • Residential and Commercial Services
  • Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention

At Disaster Response, we strive to be THE authority on mold remediation in Eugene. We understand the urgency of addressing mold issues and are here to provide swift, effective solutions. When you choose our services, you can trust that we will restore your space to a safe and healthy condition, allowing you to breathe easy once again.

Eugene mold

Disaster Response: The Leading Authority on Mold Remediation in Eugene

Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Eugene can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice is clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively identifying and eliminating mold issues, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for our clients. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of mold growth and is committed to providing top-notch service tailored to your specific needs.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

utilize advanced techniques

At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to assess and remediate mold infestations. Our experts are trained to handle various types of mold, from common household varieties to more hazardous species, ensuring that your property is thoroughly treated. We prioritize safety and efficiency, working diligently to restore your space to its original condition while minimizing disruption to your daily life.

Our comprehensive approach includes not only the removal of mold but also addressing the underlying causes of moisture that contribute to its growth. We believe in educating our clients about mold prevention and maintenance, empowering them to take proactive steps in safeguarding their homes or businesses. With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that your mold remediation project is in capable hands.

As a leading provider of mold remediation services in Eugene, we pride ourselves on our customer-centric approach. We understand that dealing with mold can be stressful, which is why we strive to make the process as seamless as possible. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the entire remediation process.

  • Comprehensive Mold Inspections
  • Mold Removal and Cleanup
  • Air Quality Testing
  • Moisture Control Solutions
  • Preventative Treatments
  • Structural Drying and Dehumidification
  • Post-Remediation Verification
  • Emergency Response Services
  • Residential and Commercial Services
  • Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention

At Disaster Response, we are dedicated to being the leading authority on mold remediation in Eugene. Our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction set us apart in the industry. When you choose us, you can rest assured that we will restore your property to a safe and healthy state, allowing you to breathe easy once again.

Mold Testing and Remediation Overview: Following IICRC S520 Standards

The IICRC S520 standard provides a clear guide for safely managing mold issues in homes and buildings. Its main goals are to protect people, ensure thorough cleanup, and prevent future mold problems.

1. Assessment and Inspection

Initial Assessment:

  • Trained professionals will conduct a detailed inspection of the affected area. This includes visual checks and using tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find hidden mold or moisture.
  • Understanding moisture sources is crucial, as mold often arises from water issues or high humidity.

Mold Sampling:

  • Although not always needed, testing (both air and surface samples) can help identify the type and amount of mold present.
  • Sampling is useful when mold is suspected but not visible, such as when there are odors or health concerns.
  • If sampling is done, it must follow proper protocols, with analysis performed by accredited labs.

2. Containment Protocols

Containment Procedures:

  • To stop mold spores from spreading during cleanup, barriers (like plastic sheeting and negative air pressure) are used.
  • The extent of containment varies; small areas might require basic barriers, while larger or heavily contaminated spaces need more extensive containment.
  • Workers must enter and exit through decontamination chambers to avoid spreading mold.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Workers should wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, N95 masks, full-body suits, and eye protection.
  • The type of PPE needed depends on how severe the contamination is; more protective gear may be required for heavily affected areas.

4. Remediation Process

Source Control:

  • Addressing the root cause of moisture is essential. This may involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or managing humidity.

Cleaning and Removal of Mold:

  • Mold cannot just be treated with chemicals; it must be physically removed.
  • Non-porous materials (like metals and glass) can often be cleaned with HEPA vacuums or damp cloths.
  • Severely affected porous materials (like drywall and carpets) should be removed and disposed of according to local regulations.
  • HEPA air filtration systems should be used to capture airborne mold spores during cleanup.

Cleaning Techniques:

  • Common methods include HEPA vacuuming and scrubbing surfaces where mold is present.
  • Antimicrobial agents may be used, but the focus is on physical removal.

5. Post-Remediation Evaluation

Final Inspection:

  • After cleanup, a visual inspection ensures no visible mold remains.
  • Air and surface tests may be conducted to confirm that mold levels are back to normal.
  • It's crucial to check that the environment is dry to prevent mold from returning.

Documentation and Reporting:

  • Detailed records of the remediation process, including testing results and cleanup procedures, should be maintained.
  • This documentation is important for compliance and may be needed for insurance or legal matters.

6. Ongoing Prevention

  • Educating building occupants about moisture control is vital. This includes maintaining HVAC systems, managing humidity, and promptly addressing leaks.

By adhering to the IICRC S520 standard, mold remediation professionals take a systematic and health-focused approach, ensuring that indoor spaces are restored to safe, mold-free conditions.

Do You Really Need, Need a Mold Remediation Expert in Eugene?

While it may be tempting to tackle mold issues on your own, hiring a professional mold remediation service can ensure a thorough and effective solution. Mold can pose serious health risks and structural damage to your home, making it crucial to address the problem with expertise. Disaster Response specializes in mold remediation, providing the knowledge and tools necessary to restore your environment safely and efficiently.

Mold Remediation Process

Understanding the Mold Remediation Process

Mold remediation involves a systematic approach to identify, contain, and eliminate mold growth. Professionals like those at Disaster Response utilize advanced techniques and equipment to assess the extent of the mold infestation. This process includes air quality testing, surface sampling, and moisture control measures to prevent future growth. By understanding the specific conditions that led to mold development, experts can implement effective solutions tailored to your situation.

Health Risks Associated

Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure

Mold can lead to a variety of health issues, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, skin irritation, and even more severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Engaging a mold remediation expert ensures that the mold is not only removed but that the air quality in your home is restored to a safe level, protecting the health of your family.

Preventing Future Mold Growth

Preventing Future Mold Growth

After remediation, it's essential to take proactive steps to prevent mold from returning. Disaster Response provides guidance on moisture control, ventilation improvements, and regular inspections to maintain a mold-free environment. By addressing the underlying causes of mold growth, such as leaks or high humidity, you can significantly reduce the risk of future infestations.

Professional Equipment Techniques

The Importance of Professional Equipment and Techniques

Attempting to remove mold without the proper equipment can lead to incomplete removal and potential health hazards. Professionals use specialized tools such as HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and moisture meters to ensure thorough remediation. Disaster Response's trained technicians are equipped to handle even the most challenging mold situations, ensuring that your home is restored to a safe and healthy state.

Disaster Owner

Joana Ruffo

Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning

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PO Box 1134 Ashland, Oregon 97520

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Reach Out to a Mold Remediation Specialist in Eugene, OR, for These Mold-Related Issues

Mold growth can occur in various environments, particularly in areas with high humidity or water damage. This fungal growth can lead to significant health risks, property damage, and unpleasant odors. Recent studies have shown an increase in mold-related issues in Eugene, with many homeowners facing challenges in managing and eliminating mold effectively. If you find yourself dealing with any of the following mold situations, it's crucial to contact a mold remediation expert promptly:

Visible Mold Growth

If you notice mold on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, it's a clear sign that professional intervention is needed. Mold can spread quickly and may indicate underlying moisture problems.

Musty Odors

A persistent musty smell in your home can be a strong indicator of hidden mold. This odor often suggests that mold is present, even if it's not immediately visible.

Water Damage

Following a leak, flood, or any water intrusion, the risk of mold growth increases significantly. It's essential to address any water damage promptly to prevent mold from taking hold.

Health Symptoms

If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained respiratory issues, allergies, or skin irritations, mold exposure could be the culprit. Seeking professional help can ensure a safe living environment.

Condensation Issues

Excessive condensation on windows, walls, or pipes can create a breeding ground for mold. Addressing these issues with a mold remediation service can help prevent future growth.

Previous Mold Problems

If you've dealt with mold in the past, it's vital to monitor the area for any signs of recurrence. A professional can assess the situation and implement preventive measures.

Regardless of the mold issue you're facing, it's important to understand that Eugene residents should act quickly to mitigate the risks associated with mold exposure. Mold can not only damage your property but also pose serious health risks to you and your family. Engaging a qualified mold remediation specialist like Disaster Response can provide the expertise needed to effectively eliminate mold and restore your home to a safe condition.

Essential Steps to Take After Discovering Mold in Your Home in Eugene

Finding mold in your home can be alarming and overwhelming. Mold can grow quickly and pose health risks, so it's crucial to act promptly. Here are the steps you should follow if you discover mold in your Eugene residence:

  • Identify the source of moisture that is causing the mold growth.
  • Ensure the affected area is well-ventilated to minimize exposure.
  • Avoid touching or disturbing the mold, as this can release spores into the air.
  • Document the extent of the mold growth with photographs for your records.
  • Contact a professional mold remediation service to assess the situation.
  • Follow any safety recommendations provided by the remediation experts.
  • Keep children and pets away from the affected area until it has been treated.
  • Review your home's ventilation and humidity levels to prevent future mold growth.

If you find mold in your home, it's essential to address it quickly to protect your health and property. Mold can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergic reactions. At Disaster Response, we specialize in mold remediation and are dedicated to restoring your home to a safe and healthy environment.

Contact Your Local Mold Remediation Experts in Eugene, OR, for a Free Consultation

At Disaster Response, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with mold issues. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support during this challenging time. We approach every situation with professionalism, care, and urgency.

Our mold remediation specialists will work diligently to identify the source of the mold, safely remove it, and implement measures to prevent its return. When your home's safety and your family's well-being are at stake, don't settle for anything less than the best—choose Disaster Response today.

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Latest News in Eugene, OR

Father-son duo Eugene and Dan Levy's dazzling entrance at the Emmys

The father-son duo, known for their acclaimed work on the hit comedy series 'Schitt's Creek,' arrived at the red carpet in coordinating yet distinct suit looks. Dan wore a sharp black suit jacket and pants with a white blouse featuring a sculptural neckline that seemed to float away. He capped off the look with black dress shoes and his signature thick black glasses.The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards is a star studded affair that is taking place at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles. The ceremony will be hosted by a father-son du...

The father-son duo, known for their acclaimed work on the hit comedy series 'Schitt's Creek,' arrived at the red carpet in coordinating yet distinct suit looks. Dan wore a sharp black suit jacket and pants with a white blouse featuring a sculptural neckline that seemed to float away. He capped off the look with black dress shoes and his signature thick black glasses.

The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards is a star studded affair that is taking place at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles. The ceremony will be hosted by a father-son duo, Eugene Levy and Dan Levy, who are making history as the first pair to co-host the prestigious event. The father-son duo, known for their acclaimed work on the hit comedy series 'Schitt's Creek,' arrived at the red carpet in coordinating yet distinct suit looks.Dan wore a sharp black suit jacket and pants with a white blouse featuring a sculptural neckline that seemed to float away. He capped off the look with black dress shoes and his signature thick black glasses. His father took a more classic approach in a dark navy double-breasted suit, white shirt, and poppy blue tie. He, too, wore his signature round glasses. This year's Emmys come four years after 'Schitt's Creek' swept the awards in 2020, with the show taking home nine trophies, including Outstanding Comedy Series. Eugene won the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series award, while Dan was recognized for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In his acceptance speech, Eugene praised had his son, saying, "I also want to thank, once again, this young man who took our fish-out-of-water story about the Rose family and transformed it into a celebration of inclusivity, a castigation of homophobia, and a declaration of the power of love." Tonight's 76th Emmy Awards will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters, including Jimmy Kimmel, Selena Gomez, Viola Davis, Colin Farrell, Lily Gladstone, Mindy Kaling, Steve Martin, and Kristen Wiig. The event, hosted by father-son duo Eugene and Dan Levy, promises a celebration of television excellence, with top-nominated shows like ShĹŤgun, The Bear, and Baby Reindeer vying for awards.

Vir Das: The First Indian to Host The Emmys, Receives Support From Bollywood Stars

Also See: Best Hollywood Movies Of 2024 | Top Rated English Movies Of 2024 | Latest Hollywood Movies

Live with the Levys! Everything to know about the Emmys 2024

The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards are upon us.TV’s biggest night will honor the best in television on Sunday, Sept. 15, live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.The show comes months after the delayed 2023 awards show took place in January due to the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes.&l...

The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards are upon us.

TV’s biggest night will honor the best in television on Sunday, Sept. 15, live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

The show comes months after the delayed 2023 awards show took place in January due to the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes.

“Schitt’s Creek” stars Eugene and Dan Levy will host the ceremony, making them the first-ever father-son duo to do so.

Viewers will see the most talked-about shows from June 1st, 2023 to May 31, 2024 honored, including “The Bear,” which has 23 nods, and the historical drama “ShĹŤgun,” adapted from author James Clavell’s 1975 novel, with 25 nominations.

Apple TV+’s comedy-drama “Palm Royale” also secured 11 nominations.

Keep scrolling for all the details on the coveted award show.

When is the show airing?

The awards ceremony will air live from LA’s Peacock Theater on ABC Sunday, Sept. 15, at 8 p.m. EST / 5 p.m. ET and run for three hours. The ceremony will be available to stream on Hulu the next day until September 22.

If you don’t have cable and want to watch live, Hulu + Live TV (with a three-day free trial included) is a great way to tune in, since ABC is included in the base package. You can also watch it live on Sling TV Blue, which does not offer a free trial.

HULU + LIVE TV

Is there a red carpet?

Hollywood’s favorite stars, of course, will be showing off their award season looks outside the venue before the show.

The Official Emmys Pre-Show begins at 7 p.m. EST with “Good Morning America’s” Robin Roberts and ABC correspondent Will Reeve kicking off the coverage.

The carpet will also stream live on NBC and E! News’ Twitter, eonline.com, Today All Day on today.com, and the E! News app.

Who is hosting the Emmys?

It was announced in August that “Schitt’s Creek” stars Eugene and Dan Levy would take the stage together to host the 76th Emmys.

“For two Canadians who won our Emmys in a literal quarantine tent, the idea of being asked to host this year in an actual theater was incentive enough,” the Levys said in a statement at the time. “We’re thrilled to be able to raise a glass to this extraordinary season of television and can’t wait to spend the evening with you all on Sept 15.”

Eugene, 77, and Dan, 41, are no strangers to making Emmys history. In 2020, they became the first father and son to win awards in the same year. Eugene took home the statue for Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, while Dan won for Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, both for their respective roles in “Schitt’s Creek.”

Both men also won the Outstanding Comedy category as executive producers. Dan went on to pick up Emmys for writing and directing for his work on the series.

Who are this year’s nominees?

This year, Netflix received a whopping 107 nominations, including “The Crown” (18), “Ripley” (13), “Baby Reindeer” (11), “3 Body Problem” (6) and the David Beckham docuseries “Beckham” (5).

FX landed 93 nominations, cutting it close to HBO/Max’s 91 nods.

While FX was led by “ShĹŤgun” and “The Bear,” HBO/Max’s noms came from “True Detective: Night Country” (19) and “Hacks (17).”

Meanwhile, Apple TV+ had 72 nominations, a record for the streaming platform. “The Morning Show” led with 16, while “Palm Royale” followed behind with 11. The limited series “Lessons in Chemistry” had 10, while “Slow Horses” received 9.

Who is presenting?

A-listers who will be appear include Kristen Wiig, Viola Davis, Lily Gladstone and “Only Murders in the Building” stars Selena Gomez, Steve Martin and Martin Short.

Also on the list of presenters are Dick Van Dyke, Colin Farrell, Matt Bomer, Joshua Jackson, Mindy Kaling, Don Johnson, Jimmy Kimmel, Greta Lee, John Leguizamo, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, George Lopez, Martin Sheen and Jean Smart.

Eugene and Dan Levy Bring Charming Jokes and Canadian Manners to 2024 Emmys Monologue

Eugene and Dan Levy delivered a charmingly lighthearted monologue to open the 76th Emmy Awards — “Also known as, broadcast TV’s biggest night for honoring movie stars on streaming services,” Dan quipped.The father-son duo kept things short and sweet, lightly roasting this year’s nominated ...

Eugene and Dan Levy delivered a charmingly lighthearted monologue to open the 76th Emmy Awards — “Also known as, broadcast TV’s biggest night for honoring movie stars on streaming services,” Dan quipped.

The father-son duo kept things short and sweet, lightly roasting this year’s nominated programs, the television industry, the television-watching audience, and, of course, themselves. At one point, Eugene spoke about all the fathers he’d played over the course of his career, but told his son, “My most rewarding dad role ever has been being your dad… in Schitt’s Creek. Because it got me my first acting Emmy.”

Elsewhere, Eugene celebrated all the positive ways great TV reflects our lives — whether we’ve struggled to make friends in a new city like Carrie Coon in The Gilded Age, or had a teacher that’s changed our lives like Quinta Brunson in Abbot Elementary. Dan echoed the sentiment, joking about all of us who’ve had a “co-dependent, borderline homoerotic relationship with our boss, like Hannah Einbinder in Hacks.”

The pair later celebrated Shogun for already making Emmy history with its 14 Creative Arts Emmy victories, which already makes it the most decorated show in a single season. Dan praised the hit program’s attention to detail, noting the way scripts were written in English, translated to Japanese, re-written, and then translated back into English subtitles “that you missed because you were also on your phone watching Sabrina Carpenter eat a hot wing.”

And Eugene peeled off a superb quip about The Bear, noting it was nominated for 23 Emmys, making it the most-nominated comedy in Emmys history. “Now, I love the show, and I know some of you might be expecting us to make a joke about whether The Bear is really a comedy,” Eugene said. “But in the true spirit of The Bear, we will not be making any jokes.”

The Levys closed out their monologue with a not unfamiliar awards show request: To keep things moving along during acceptance speeches, please, for the sake of time. But their plea was borne out of a very particular anxiety: “In what can only be described as a cruel joke, two Canadians have been put in charge of playing you off tonight,” Dan deadpanned.

“Canadians don’t like interrupting anybody,” Eugene added. “It goes against our nature.”

While the Emmys have often featured multiple hosts over the years, this is the first time in the show’s history that a father and son have helmed TV’s big night together. The event also gives the pair a chance to take the Emmys stage together, in person, after Schitt’s Creek swept the comedy categories in 2020, but everyone had to accept their awards virtually because of Covid-19.

In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, the Levys spoke about the gig, with Dan revealing they’d been asked before, but saying “it didn’t feel like the right time for whatever reason.” When they were asked to host this time, Dan quipped, “I think I ran out of reasons not to do it. It seemed like a fun little challenge — not little, quite huge actually.”

Eugene added: “We were both obviously kind of nervous, because it’s kind of a tough thing to do — you’re letting yourself out there and whatever, whatever, is it worth it? We could coast into the fall quite easily without doing this and have a fun time watching it on TV. But I guess something was drawing us into it — like, we could do it, it could be fun. We opened the SAG Awards a few years ago, and we had a ball doing it, and also it turned out really well; it seemed to work, and we got a taste of what that’s like. So we jumped in and said yes. And what can happen, really?”

Between them the Levys have eight Emmy awards, with four each. Eugene won his first two in the Eighties, both for Outstanding Writing in a Variety or Music Program for SCTV, while he picked up his other two in 2020: Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy for Schitt’s Creek. Dan also received the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series that year, along with Supporting Actor in a Comedy, Directing for a Comedy, and Writing for a Comedy. He was most recently nominated in 2021 for hosting Saturday Night Live.

The Priests: After 50 years on stage, it’s time for Fathers Eugene, Martin and David to say goodbye

IT is just a regular working day in the priesthood for Fr Martin O’Hagan, his brother, Fr Eugene, and their long-time friend and musical collaborator, Fr David Delargy – better known collectively as The Priests.Individually, they have dealt with everything from parishioner emergencies to future strategy planning on the morning I ring to chat about what is, in many ways, their biggest event yet – their retirement.The ...

IT is just a regular working day in the priesthood for Fr Martin O’Hagan, his brother, Fr Eugene, and their long-time friend and musical collaborator, Fr David Delargy – better known collectively as The Priests.

Individually, they have dealt with everything from parishioner emergencies to future strategy planning on the morning I ring to chat about what is, in many ways, their biggest event yet – their retirement.

The popular priestly trio are set to quit the big stage – but will, on occasions, grace some smaller ones - with a series of farewell concerts beginning this month and finishing with a last hurrah at the Ulster Hall, Belfast, in January next year.

It is fair to say the Time To Say Goodbye concert tour has taken fans and parishioners somewhat by surprise, but after 50 years singing together and travelling the globe, 2024 is a good a year to bow out, reflects Fr Eugene – chancellor and vicar general of the Diocese of Down and Connor - who admits he will miss “the buzz” of big audience events.

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“When we signed our recording contract with Sony in 2008, we had a line put in it that said our music career would never encroach on our diocesan work,” he explains, “but as times change and we get a little older, this is becoming more difficult to coordinate. Our 50th anniversary seems the right time to step back from performing live as a group.”

As Fr David, parish priest of the Loughshore Parishes of Greencastle, Whitehouse and St James (incorporating Whiteabbey and Greenisland) puts it: “Our circumstances have changed a lot since we started out – when I began, I had a small parish and there were two of us: myself and a retired priest. Now I am 17 years older and my energy levels are not quite the same.

“At the same time, my responsibilities have increased... I now have three parishes – four churches – to look after and there is only myself to do it. So, if I do have to be away at a concert somewhere, it’s not just as straightforward finding a replacement.”

Despite this, it hasn’t been an easy decision to say ‘goodbye’ to The Priests, with Fr Martin, parish priest of Newtownards and Comber, acknowledging it will be “a wrench”, particularly since all three voices remain “in good trim”.

“It will be quite a wrench, really,” he says, “but it will be nice to go out with a sense of celebration and great thanks to God and to all those who have contributed to our journey over the years.”

That very “unexpected journey” began quietly back in 1974 when all three were musically-minded schoolboys (nicknamed ‘Holy,’ ‘Holy’, ‘Holy’ by their peers) at St MacNissi’s College in Carnlough (now St Killian’s College, aka Garron Tower) enthusiastically took part in the annual Christmas shows – the first one The Pirates of Penzance when 11-year-old David played Kate – “I had a high soprano voice” – Martin played Edith and Eugene was Major General Stanley.

Our circumstances have changed a lot since we started out... I now have three parishes – four churches – to look after and there is only myself to do it. So, if I do have to be away at a concert somewhere, it’s not just as straightforward finding a replacement

— Fr David Delargy

All three studied at Queen’s in Belfast and had vocation training at the seminary, also in Belfast - during which they studied music under singing teacher Frank Capper. Then, some years into their priestly ministries, in 2008 everything changed.

“We had been singing together at local venues at that stage, but it is a funny story how we ended up being signed to Sony,” Fr Eugene recounts. “As priests, we were invited to audition for a part chanting Latin Mass, linking songs on a proposed album of religious music, when people at the Epic label – part of the Sony family - became interested in our back story and decided to set aside the original project and sign us up for an album instead. What happened afterwards came as a complete surprise, completely out of the blue...”

After signing their record deal on the steps of London’s Westminster Abbey, the three became Guinness World Record holders after The Priests, became the fastest selling debut for a classical act in the UK, also earning them gold and platinum discs for sales throughout Europe and Australia and topping the classical Billboard chart in the USA.

They were heady days and, in the years since, three more albums followed, as well as a documentary, a book (Soul Song) various overseas tours, royal receptions and performances for high-profile audience members including Pope Francis in 2013 in Rome.

But, as working priests, they didn’t let it all go to their heads. “If it did,” observes Father David wryly, “it didn’t stick there for very long. The thing is, when you move into that world, people praise you, they tell you that you are wonderful, they lay it on thick... you find yourself being transported from the airport in a limousine – but I remember Eugene once saying: ‘Boys, we are having all these wonderful experiences, but be very careful that you don’t jump out of the bowl you were baked in.’”

Certainly, a sobering visit to a project helping impoverished families in Thailand - being supported by their charitable foundation - was a stark reminder about how the world is unfairly divided into the haves and have-nots. During a visit to one family, Fr David was presented with a dish of pan-fried mosquitos - the very best the family could offer. He gamely took a forkful, but they stuck in his throat.

Behind the glamour and smiles back home, there was a time when all three felt something sticking in their throats. “When our success took off, it was great,” recalls Fr David. “It opened up another side of the clergy to people, but it was all happening at a very, very difficult time for the Catholic Church in Ireland.

“There were all sorts of negative stories in the press about abuses and how these had been mishandled and covered up. Bishops were being held to account and people were angry… I mean, priests were angry. I was angry.

“People were angry with the church and a lot of people were walking away, feeling let down and disillusioned. And there we were, sticking our necks out as singing priests and appearing on shows like The Jonathan Ross Show... it was frightening for us.

“But I think, in the end, it gave people something else to talk about and the music lifted spirits. I also think it gave a bit of encouragement to young men contemplating a vocation in the priesthood - it sent out a message that when you put yourself forward as a candidate, you don’t have to set aside your humanity, your personality or your talents - you bring all of that into priestly ministry with you. That’s who you are and that’s what you offer.”

One evening he suddenly said: ‘Martin, your toupee is looking very well this evening’. I just had to react on my feet, responding with a quick, ‘Excuse me, this is the real thing’, and tugging at my head

— Fr Martin O'Hagan

For all three, the legacy will be the sense of fun, as well as the music – and the many non-scripted moments that had Fr Martin literally pulling his hair out.

“The humour is very spontaneous on stage – and I never know what Eugene is going to come out with next,” he says, laughing.

“One evening he suddenly said: ‘Martin, your toupee is looking very well this evening’. I just had to react on my feet, responding with a quick, ‘Excuse me, this is the real thing’, and tugging at my head.

“Music is an amazing means of interpreting our journey through this world and I think when combined with faith, it comes alive, but I hope people also remember we were able to laugh and, even through secular music, bring a spiritual quality that touched lives.”

The Priests’ Time to Say Goodbye concerts take place across Ireland, beginning this month (September 27) in The Lark, Ballbriggan, Co Dublin, before moving to The Market Place, Armagh (November 8), The Braid, Ballymena (November 16), The Guildhall, Derry (December 21) and The Ulster Hall, Belfast (January 5). Tickets available from all venues or Ticketmaster

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