FILMMAKER and campaigner Stephen Gargan who has died suddenly has been described as a key figure in the Bloody Sunday Justice Campaign.
Mr Gargan, who was originally from Dublin, died following a heart attack on Sunday. He was one of the co-producers of the 2002 film, Sunday which featured Christopher Eccleston and Ciarán McMenamin. It was one of two films produced to mark the 30th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.
Mr Gargan, who was in his early sixties, moved to Derry in 1990 and was involved in a number of start-up projects, including the Gasyard Wall Féile. A supporter of the Bloody Sunday justice campaign, he played a major role in the annual January commemoration weekends. He also worked with the Bloody Sunday families who opted to continue the annual commemoration march following publication of the Saville report.
Kate Nash, whose brother William was killed and whose father, Alex was shot and wounded, said she was shocked at news of his death.
“I can’t express how sorry we are to his family and friends; will always miss Stephen,” she said.
Bloody Sunday Trust, chairman, Tony Doherty said Mr Gargan helped re-invigorate the annual Bloody Sunday march from the early 1990s.
Mr Doherty said: “Stephen also helped create public support for the Bloody Sunday Justice Campaign and the Pat Finucane Centre. Our sincere sympathy to his friends and family circle.”
John Kelly, a brother of victim, Michael, said Mr Gargan was always a huge supporter and help to the Bloody Sunday families.
“I’m so very sorry to hear news of his death; everyone liked Stephen. He walked with us and was instrumental in bringing our story to a global audience,” Mr Kelly said.
