McConalogue Condemns 'Sickening Vandalism' Of Memorial

Donegal North East Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue has condemned those responsible for the sickening destruction of a plaque dedicated to the memory of late Garda Gary McLoughlin.

The 24-year-old Leitrim man died after a high speed garda chase at Bridgend in Co Donegal in December 2009. The man convicted of his manslaughter, Martin McDermott from Raphoe, escaped from the low security prison Loughan House in Cavan in March last. He was later recaptured by the PSNI.

“This family has been through enough,” said Deputy McConalogue. “It is hard enough to lose a loved one in such terrible circumstances, but on top of all that they were faced with the ordeal of McDermott’s escape from prison. Now they have the added heartache of a plaque to their son’s memory being destroyed by thugs.

“It is a slap in the face to Garda McLoughlin’s family, his friends and colleagues and to the local community who are outraged at what’s happened. The thugs responsible for this callous display of disrespect must be brought to justice. It is impossible to understand the mind-set of some people to carry out such an act.

“My thoughts are with everyone who knew Garda McLoughlin at this difficult time. I have no doubt that every effort will be made to identify those responsible,” said Deputy McConalogue.

(CD/GK)