SF figure indicates republican funeral was toned-down event

Sinn Fein’s Raymond McCartney has indicated that the farewell given to IRA man Eamonn McCourt in Londonderry on Monday was a toned-down affair – even though the PSNI is investigating “likely” breaches of Covid restrictions connected with it.
Eamonn McCourt laying a wreath at an IRA memorialEamonn McCourt laying a wreath at an IRA memorial
Eamonn McCourt laying a wreath at an IRA memorial

In a video message broadcast over Facebook by Sinn Fein, Mr McCartney – a former MLA, who had a seat in the Foyle constituency from 2004 up until last year – said that a proper gathering to mark the life and legacy of Mr McCourt would be arranged “another time”.

Images began circulating last night of a large cortege moving down snowy Londonderry streets, and an online notice via Mr McCourt’s own Facebook page told mourners they could come to the cemetery.

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The PSNI said “a significant number of people gathered as part of the cortège, in a manner likely to be in breach of the health protection regulations”.

In his video message Mr McCartney said: “On behalf of the republican family I want to extend out heartfelt condolences at the loss of our dear friend and comrade Eamonn McCourt – affectionately known to us all as Peggy.

“Peggy was taken from us on Saturday through the illness Covid-19. It not only robbed us of a most respected republican activist, it also robbed us of the opportunity to gather as one and lay him to rest in a fitting manner.

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“At another time we will come together to mourn and celebrate the life and loss of our comrade and friend.”

And in the same video clip, another man – Sean McMonagle – said: “In normal times Peggy would’ve been buried in the republican tradition. But the public health guidelines prevent us from doing so at this time.”

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