Artist, ecologist and archaeologist selected for works on Buncrana's Father Hegarty Shore Walk

It was announced in April that, as part of the Community Recognition Programme, Donegal County Council in partnership with Buncrana Tidy Towns are to undertake a programme of works over the coming months along the popular walk in the town.

The works will include repairs to some areas of the walkway, new signage and access improvements and commissioning of a Public Artwork responding to the folklore around the man after whom the shore walk is named.

Friar Seamus Hegarty O.P. (1649-1711) was a Dominican friar who ministered in the parish of Fahan and Buncrana during Penal times and was killed for his actions at a spot on the walk known locally as Hegarty’s Rock.

In an update given to councillors at this week’s Inishowen Municipal District meeting, Fiona Doherty, Development Officer, Community Development confirmed that an artist has been selected and will be officially appointed soon.

Ms Doherty added that an ecologist and archaeologist have also been appointed, while tender documents are being prepared for the project together with all appropriate studies and reports.

The works include the enhancement of the walk; capital/drainage improvements; accessible seating; trail head/Interpretation panels/maps and improved access to the two archaeological sites, Friar Hegarty’s Grave and the Porthaw Holy Well and Celtic cross.

Seamus Hegarty was ordained a Dominican by Oliver Plunkett in Dundalk in 1672 and became parish priest of Fahan in 1704.