Noah Donohoe first anniversary : Derry & Strabane Council to light buildings up blue

Derry & Strabane Council is to light up its buildings to mark the first anniversary of the death of teenager Noah Donohoe.

The 14-year old St Malachy’s College pupil was found dead in a storm drain in North Belfast last June, six days after he went missing.

To mark the first anniversary of Noah’s passing on Monday, June 21, Councillors on the Business and Culture Committee voted unanimously to light up council buildings blue.

The proposal was brought forward by Independent Councillor Raymond Barr who said: “I would like to ask that all Council buildings in the District and The Tinneys in Strabane be lit up blue on the first anniversary of Noah’s death. Noah was born in Strabane and the vast majority of his family still live in Strabane and I feel this would be a fitting tribute.”

Sinn Féin Councillor Kieran McGuire offered his ‘full support’ adding; “It will highlight the campaign for the family, I think it is the least we could do.”

Hios party colleague Aileen Mellon thanked Councillor Barr for bringing the proposal forward.

“As a parent, it’s heartbreaking each time that this family and circle of people have to campaign so much for truth and justice and I wish them all my thoughts going forward and get the answers they are looking for.”

PBP Shaun Harkin felt that lighting up the buildings would help ‘keep the pressure on in terms of the hope that Fiona and the family get the answers they are looking for’. “I think it is important we sent a message of solidarity because of the loss that she and her family have suffered and it is something that touches everybody,” he said.

Independent Councillor Gary Donnelly spoke of the ‘incomprehensible loss’ any parent would feel at the loss of a child. “To lose a child in these circumstances and not have the answers must be an absolute nightmare for the family,” he added. “I would like to express my solidarity with the family and the campaign.”

Colr. Barr thanked all Members for their support of his proposal. “This Council has been steadfast in their support of the Donohoe family and I can assure you it is very much appreciated,” he said.