Dromara Remembers and SEFF hold panel discussion on locals killed by IRA terrorism
A panel discussion is to take place in Dromara, Co Down, next week on the anniversary of the murder of a local 25-year-old RUC constable, Neville Gray.
The panel will be made up of Mr Gray's brother Alistair, and members of two other local families bereaved by terrorism. The event will take the form of a Question Time discussion and will provide an opportunity to hear personal testimonies, reflect on lived experiences, and engage in meaningful discussion.
The discussion, Dromara Remembers, is organised in conjuction with victims group SEFF and is being held on the 42nd anniversary of the murder of Mr Gray.
Chaired by SEFF director Kenny Donaldson, it take place at St John's Parish Hall, Dromara, on Monday, May 18 at 7.30pm.
Also on the panel is Michael Bingham QGM, whose grandparents and aunt, William, Elizabeth and Noeline Herron, were killed in the flat above their Dromore drapery store by an IRA incendiary bomb on 7th April 1976.
The final panel member is Sammy Heenan, whose father William Heenan was murdered at his farm at Legananny by the IRA on 3rd May 1985.
Mr Donaldson said the event was developed by local people and volunteers connected with SEFF's network, and coincides with the 42nd anniversary of Mr Gray’s murder.
"Neville was a 25-year-old Protestant, single, and a constable with the RUC GC, from Banbridge Road, Dromara," Mr Donaldson said. "He was murdered alongside his RUC GC colleague, George Elliott. The men were murdered by Provisional IRA terrorists.
"Neville, George and a third colleague were traveling in an RUC car driven by Neville along the Camlough to Crossmaglen Road in the townland of Aghmakane at 8.30am on 18th May 1984 when a 1000lb bomb exploded under their car, sending their car some distance into the field.
"Neville and George were both fatally injured, Neville’s funeral service was held in 1st Dromara Presbyterian Church with full police honours and he was interred in the adjacent graveyard.”
Mr Donaldson added: "This promises to be a powerful and thought provoking evening, giving a voice to those directly affected by terrorism and ensuring their stories are neither forgotten nor ignored.”