Donegal County Council’s regularly scheduled July plenary meeting was adjourned this morning as a mark of respect for four individuals who recently passed away within the county.
The meeting was briefly suspended for five minutes, allowing councillors a moment to remember Natalie McLaughlin, a 27-year-old mother from Carndonagh, and her 6-year-old daughter, Ella. Their passing followed a tragic accident in Glentogher on July 2nd.
“It was a deeply sorrowful time for the community,” stated Cllr McDermott, “and an especially difficult period for all of the family and their extended relations in Carndonagh, Moville, and Glengad.”
Cllr McDermott also commended the work of the emergency services who responded to the accident.
Councillor Albert Doherty echoed these sentiments, extending heartfelt sympathies to all friends and family affected by the tragic loss.
“Our condolences and unwavering support will remain with the family during this incredibly challenging time,” Cllr Doherty affirmed.
Cllr Doherty further acknowledged the dedication of the emergency services, specifically mentioning the staff at Altnagelvin Area Hospital and the Royal Victoria Hospital who provided care to those involved.
“We have lost valued members of our community, and our deepest sympathies are with their loved ones,” stated Cllr Doherty.
Councillor Ciaran Brogan requested that the adjournment also serve to honor the memory of Gavin Burke from Newtowncunningham, a valued member of the Donegal County Council’s Culture Division. Mr. Burke passed away on Sunday at the age of 49.
Cllr Brogan noted: “I am aware that Mr. Burke has family members currently employed by the council. This is a difficult time for his family, and indeed for our own staff members who had the privilege of working alongside him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Burke family during this time of mourning.”
Mr. Burke’s funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, July 22nd, at 12 noon in All Saints Church, Newtowncunningham.
Councillor Michael McClafferty, representing the Glenties Municipal District, also expressed his condolences to the family of Edgar Scott, of Horn Head, Dunfanaghy and Magheralin, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, who passed away unexpectedly in Falcarragh last week.
Mr. Scott’s Funeral Service was held in Dunfanaghy Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 19th.
County Council meeting adjourns to mourn four deaths in the county was last modified: July 21st, 2025 by
