Buncrana's most famous resident returns home
Fr Hegarty statue returns to Lough Swilly after specialist restoration works .
After a seven-week absence, the statue of Fr Hegarty was reinstated at its prominent position above Father Hegarty's Rock on the shores of Lough Swilly on Friday, June 5, following the completion of maintenance works.
The landmark sculpture was removed in April after concerns were raised regarding discolouration that had developed on the artwork. The statue was transported to the artist's foundry, where specialist remedial work was carried out to restore its appearance and ensure its long-term preservation.
Its return has been welcomed by locals and visitors alike, many of whom had noticed the unusual sight of the shoreline without one of Buncrana's most recognisable landmarks.
Thankfully, there was no dramatic disappearance, no kidnapping, and no need to launch a search party. Fr Hegarty had simply checked himself in for a makeover.
The statue, unveiled in April of last year, commemorates Father Séamus (James) Hegarty OP, a Dominican Friar and Parish Priest associated with Fahan and Desertegney in Inishowen.
It stands near the historic site known locally as Father Hegarty’s Rock, where he is believed to have died during the Penal era.
Ordained in 1672 by Oliver Plunkett in Dundalk, Fr Hegarty later became Parish Priest of Fahan in 1704, the same year the Irish Parliament enacted the Penal Laws aimed at suppressing Catholic practice.
During this period, he ministered in secret, often hiding in a cave to avoid capture. He was ultimately betrayed by a family member, captured, and executed by British forces after an attempted escape across Lough Swilly. His death has led to his enduring legacy as a martyr for the Catholic faith in Inishowen.
Created by local sculptor Rory Harron and commissioned by Donegal County Council, the €80,000 artwork is part of the Shore Walk Public Artwork and Refurbishment Project, which aims to celebrate and enhance the area's cultural and historical heritage.
The project was delivered through the council's Community Development and Planning Directorate in partnership with Buncrana Tidy Towns.
After a brief holiday away from Buncrana, the town's most famous resident is once again keeping watch over Lough Swilly from his familiar vantage point.