Remembrance concert to celebrate young man's life

Almost exactly three years to the day since Eamonn Johnston passed away, a great line up of musical talent will take to the stage to remember all those, including Eamonn, who took their own lives.

The concert will be the second successive event at the Forum to remember and proved highly successful last year.

Eamonn's mum, Bebe, has been a forthright champion of openness in the discussion of suicide-a phenomenon that has blighted Londonderry in recent years, and is especially prevalent amongst young males.

Speaking to the Sentinel, Mrs Johnston said: "It was hugely successful last year and we had lots of contact from many people afterwards. I was always capable of many things, but found myself not being so capable after Eamonn's death. This is a celebration of what Eamonn left behind and is about remembering the good times instead of the bad times."

Foyle MP Mark Durkan has given his support to the event as well and said: "The marked incidence of suicide in Derry – in particular among young people – is devastating the families and friends of victims and shocking the whole community.

"We are all left struggling with perplexing questions. No one on their own can establish or express adequate answers. This is a profound issue where we literally have to come together – different agencies, churches, professionals, community groups and families.

"We have to admire and applaud so much good, hard, sensitive work which is being done and so much of it led by those who have been bereaved by suicide.

"Through this follow up concert, Bebe Johnson is determined to do just that. This is a warm way to bring people together to talk openly and honestly about suicide and mental health issues, so that we can encourage our young people to do the same.

Ironically, Eamonn Johnston had been working on the production of a film on suicide awareness when he passed away. But his passing has inspired more frank recognition of suicide and its prevention, where once it was a total taboo in Ireland for many social and religious reasons.

To that end, the line up at the Millennium Forum on July 10 will include Damien McGinty of Celtic Thunder, Michael Doherty, Niamh McGlinchey, Mickey Coleman and Plunkett McGartland. The event will be compered, as last year, by the inimitable May McFetridge.

Proceeds raised from the event will be donated to Foyle Search and Rescue.

The concert will begin at 8pm on Saturday, July 10 and tickets, which are available from the Millennium Forum Box Office, are priced at 12.50, 15.50 and 16.50 respectively.

To book tickets call the Forum on 02871264426.