Launch of the Gallagher Clan Organisation
Among those welcomed by the Chairperson of the Gallagher Clan, Fr. Seán Gallagher P.P., Gortahork, were representatives from church, civic, and clan organisations, reflecting the breadth of support for the Clan initiative.
Those present included:
- Dr. Goode, Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe
- Dr. Boyce D.D., Roman Catholic Bishop of Raphoe
- Mr. Cahir Tierney, Chairman of Clans of Ireland
- Mr. Dessie Larkin, Chairman of Donegal County Council
Official Launch
The Gallagher Clan was officially launched by Minister of State for Transport, Pat “the Cope” Gallagher.
Also present was Mr. Matt Gallagher, full-back on the 1992 All-Ireland winning Donegal Gaelic football team, along with members of the O’Donnell and Sweeney Clans.
Minister of State for Transport, Pat the Cope Gallagher,
Fr. Sean Gallagher, Adrian Gallaghe
Addresses and Contributions
Mr. Dessie Larkin congratulated the Gallaghers on establishing the Clan organisation and acknowledged the premier place the Gallagher name holds in County Donegal. He highlighted the economic and cultural benefits that clan organisations bring to Donegal and the wider northwest, particularly in raising heritage awareness and supporting tourism.
(Adrian, Fr. Seán, Matt, Paddy and Fionn are pictured holding a copy of the 1992 All-Ireland Gaelic Football Final programme booklet.)
Anthony Gallagher delivered an insightful talk on the Gallagher coat of arms, explaining the symbolism behind the Clan crest and his role in producing the final design adopted by the Clan. His artistry was widely admired.
Joseph Gallagher, Ballaghderg, Letterkenny, outlined the aims, objectives, and future development envisaged for the Gallagher Clan organisation.
Mr. Cahir Tierney, after congratulating the Clan on a successful launch, introduced Clans of Ireland as the official umbrella body for clan organisations and spoke about the broader community benefits that arise from the formation of clan groups.
Clan History and Future Plans
Peter Gallagher provided a brief overview of the Clan’s early history.
Adrian Gallagher concluded by referring to the long history of the Gallaghers, stretching back to Niall of the Nine Hostages in the fifth century A.D., emphasising the importance of heritage and the human need to understand one’s ancestry.
The evening was intended as a forerunner to a series of events across County Donegal, leading to a multinational Gallagher gathering the following year, coinciding with the Flight of the Earls commemorations.
As part of these commemorations, the Clan encouraged everyone with a Gallagher connection to compile their family trees before the end of October 2006, so they could be amalgamated to build a clearer picture of shared ancestry.
Closing
The evening concluded with musical entertainment provided by Frank Gallagher (Derry) and friends.
The Gallagher Clan expressed sincere thanks to all individuals and organisations whose support helped make the event such a success.