Retired Donegal detective honoured for brave rescue in 1983

A former Donegal detective has been awarded a bravery medal for his role in the rescue of a businessman from an IRA gang 40 years ago.

Detective Garda Sean Herraghty, formerly of the Donegal Garda Division, was among six honoured.

He was presented the Scott Medal Commendation First Class by Deputy Commissioner Shawna Coxon.

On November 24, 1983, Mr. Don Tidey, a prominent businessperson, was abducted in Rathfarnham, County Dublin by armed members of the IRA.

An Garda Síochána launched a major operation to locate Mr. Tidey and identify those involved in his abduction.

In the course of a nationwide search, Mr. Tidey was safely located and a number of suspects were arrested.

Six Gardaí who played crucial roles in this operation, were honoured at an awards ceremony at the Sligo Park Hotel, Co Sligo.

A Garda spokesperson said: “This commendation recognises courageous conduct involving risk to life in the execution of a Garda’s duty.

“During the course of the operation the location where Mr. Tidey was being held was located. As sustained bursts of gunfire rang out with Garda and Army personnel taken hostage, urgent assistance was sought to which Detective Garda Sean Herraghty responded.

“Fully aware of the dangers involved Detective Garda Herraghty encountered a known suspect on his response route and upon a measured and cautious approach, secured his arrest.”