The impressive statue commemorating Fr Hegarty was created by local artist Rory Harron and funded under the Community Recognition Programme, an initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Under this programme, Donegal County Council in partnership with Buncrana Tidy Towns have undertaken a programme of works at the popular Fr Hegarty’s Walk, which have also included repairs to some areas of the walkway, new signage and access improvements.
The statue, located just above Fr Hegarty’s Rock itself along the shores was Lough Swilly, was officially unveiled by His Excellency, Archbishop Luis Mariano Montemayor, Papal Nuncio and Minister of State for Sport and Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD.
They were joined by Bishop of Derry, The Most Reverend Donal McKeown, Parish Priest Father Francis Bradley, Father Damian Polly OP Dominican Friar and Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District Councillor, Jack Murray, as well as local representatives and hundreds of members of the local community.
You can read more about the unveiling by clicking here.
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His Excellency Archbishop Luis. Mariano Montemayor, Apostolic Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps along with Bishop Donal McKeown and Fr. Francis Bradley, PP, after the blessing of the cornerstone of the new school. Included from right are Charlie McConalogue, TD, Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy, Fr. Damian Polly, Dominican Friar and Prior of the Black Abbey, Kilkenny , and from left, Colr. Jack Murray, Cathaoirleach, Fr. Paddy Baker, Rev. Craig Wilson, Monsignor Kevin Gillespie, Shay Kinsella, vice-principal, and Sinead McLaughlin, school principal. Photo: Tom Heaney Photo: Tom heaney