Five family members who died in Buncrana pier tragedy named

Expressing her condolence at the tragic deaths last night of Sean McGrotty, his two sons Mark and Evan, his mother-in-law Ruth Daniels and her daughter Jodie-Lee, Mayor McCallion said she was devastated and deeply saddened by the news and her thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family circle at this difficult time.

She said: “This tragedy that has affected the entire community in Derry and Donegal and left all of us feeling distraught. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this tragedy, especially to Louise. I can’t imagine what she is going through right now, it is just unthinkable and every mother’s nightmare.

“As Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, I contacted the local clergy and we have agreed to open a Book of Condolence in the two local churches at St Joseph’s Parish Church, Galliagh and at the Holy Family Church, Ballymagroarty so that the local community can express their sympathies and show their support for the wider community and family circle. This tragedy really captures the heart of every person and it’s important that we provide a forum for which people can express their condolences.”

The Mayor said she hoped people will take the opportunity to come to the churches to sign the books and offer a prayer and thought for the families at their time of loss.

“The communities in Galliagh, Creggan and Ballymagroarty and indeed the entire area of Derry and Donegal are united in grief today and by working together we will help each other through this harrowing time.”

Concluding the Mayor paid tribute to the emergency services who attended the scene of the incident last night and to the people of the Buncrana and extended area for their help and support.