A memorial garden commemorating the ten people who died in the Creeslough tragedy has been proposed at a meeting facilitated by the Irish Red Cross.
Leona Harper (14), Robert Garwe (50), Shauna Flanagan Garwe (5), Jessica Gallagher (240, James O’Flaherty (48), Martina Martin (49), Hugh Kelly (59), Catherine O’Donnell (39), James Monaghan (13) and Martin McGill (49), died in the fatal explosion at a petrol station in the Co Donegal village on October 7, 2022.
Following the tragedy, €1,906,349 was donated to the Irish Red Cross. Families and individuals impacted by the tragedy received €1,762,203 of the funds. The remaining €144,000 has been earmarked for community use.
The meeting identified three key areas of support: trauma support, youth development, and commemorative projects.
Liam O’Dwyer, Secretary General of the Irish Red Cross said the idea of a memorial garden had garnered support from some of the bereaved families.
Mr O’Dwyer added: “It was put out there by individuals and community representatives. We have heard too from some families of the bereaved that they also believe it to be a good idea.
“There are also possibilities around a commemorative trophy for sports in schools.
“It’s also important to note that, while the focus is obviously on Creeslough, people in Letterkenny were significantly impacted and lost people as well.”
The meeting also discussed how trauma support and youth development could be provided in association with community groups including, schools, GAA clubs, Donegal Youth Service, Foróige and the HSE.
Mr O’Dwyer added Irish Red Cross was committed to working with the entire community and the families of the bereaved.
The possibility of forming an advisory committee comprising local residents was also examined.
“We want to focus on the community and the community’s need,” said Liam O’Dwyer, who extended an invitation for families to meet with his organisation.
