Northern Ireland

Republicans to attend commemoration in Derry for IRA man killed in 1981

Danny McBrearty
Danny McBrearty Danny McBrearty

A commemoration will be held tomorrow in memory of an IRA man killed almost four decades ago.

George McBrearty (23) died along with fellow republican Charles Maguire (21) during a gun battle with members of the 14th Intelligence Company in Derry on May 28 1981.

Each year his family organises an independent commemoration which is attended by republicans from all backgrounds.

In 2017 they unveiled a new mural on the gable of his niece's house in the Creggan estate.

Prominent Irish American Martin Galvin, who once headed up republican fundraising group Noraid, is expected to chair this year's event.

Mr McBrearty’s brother Danny last night said it had been organised by his 89-year-old mother Bridie along with her surviving children.

"Regardless of recent happenings, this commemoration and the mural stands alone and separate from any republican organisation in this city and beyond,” he said.

"We intend to hold our commemoration this year and every year for all of those who gave their lives. Everyone, no matter what political party they are involved with, are welcome to attend."

The commemoration will be held at the junction of Rathkeele Way and Rathlin Drive in the Creggan estate at 2.30pm.