DSD to fund sculpture's emigration

"The Emigrants" 1990 by sculptor Eamonn O'Doherty are a series of life-size bronze figures representing those who left these shores for the New World either fleeing poverty and famine or searching for new prospects in the Americas.

The work formerly adorned Waterloo Place and centred on the fountain that once stood there. But as a result of widespread renovation plans it was decided by the Derry City Council Development Committee that the statues be moved to a new home at the site of the former Londonderry port and shipyards. The Council agreed to support and oversee the relocation.

Councillors were advised that Council has now received a letter of offer from the North West Development Office for the sum of 30,000 to cover costs of the refurbishment, relocation of the work, creation of a seated area and environmental improvements in that area.As a result "The Emigrants" can emigrate at zero cost to the local authority as the cost will be picked up by the Department of Social Development (DSD) branch responsible for urban regeneration responsibilities for Londonderry.

"The Emigrants" consists of seven figures; the main family group, an old couple and a young girl playing.