Togher Historical Association was honoured by an invitation to the official opening of the Garden of Remembrance and Reflection at Clashduv Park on Saturday 8th April 2pm. Also in attendance were Togher Tidy Towns under the leadership of Fergal O'Connor and members of the combined Togher Ballyphehane Centenary Committee. M.C. for the day was Keiran O'Connell ably assisted by Ciara O'Mahoney. A huge turnout of members of the Hegarty , Forde and Fennell families and friends and locals made it such a memorable day.
Dean Nigel Dunne of the Church of Ireland gave the opening blessing followed by the Lady Mayoress Cllr. Deirdre Forde giving her speech acknowledging the women of Ireland. Ciara O'Mahoney secretary of the Ballyphehane Togher Centenary Committee also thanked the Togher Historical Association for their suggestion on dedicating the Garden to the Hegarty sisters including their brother John Joe. Fergal O'Connor of Togher Tidy Towns gave an oration followed by Jim Hegarty who delivered the key speech in honour of his Aunts Nan and Mamie. It was fitting that his father John Joe was also mentioned on the inscription of the placue.
Jim Hegarty keynote speech
Adam Duggan , a relative of the Hegartys played a lament while a choir sang " Grace ". Also involved were Ballyphehane pipe band who played magnificently. The highlight of the event was Mamies grandson playing his rendition of Paul Murphy's song , " The Hegartys of the Laurels ". A tree planting ceremony was conducted by the Lady Mayoress who honoured Nan and Mamie by naming the trees Liberty and Equality. A fantastic day which will live on in the memories of all who attended.
Mamie's grandson singing
" The Hegartys of the Laurels "
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