Councillor’s tribute to swimmer who raised funds for ‘cause close to my own heart’

An Inishowen County Councillor has expressed her deep sadness following the passing of Paddy Conaghan, the Arranmore charity campaigner and open water swimmer, who has died aged 85.

Buncrana Cllr Joy Beard described him as a “truly remarkable man whose spirit, generosity and determination touched so many lives.”

She said Mr Conaghan was “nothing short of inspirational,” highlighting his extraordinary achievements later in life, including swimming around the coastline in his 80s, often multiple times a day.

She noted that such challenges are beyond what most people could imagine, yet he undertook them not for recognition, but to help others.

The Redress Councillor praised Mr Conaghan’s fundraising efforts, highlighting how he raised more than €100,000 for Gemma’s Legacy of Hope, while also supporting numerous other causes, including the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Cllr Beard described this as a “cause very close to my own heart”, sharing how both her father and grandmother passed away from Motor Neurone Disease.

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She also recalled having the privilege of meeting Mr Conaghan during his travels, an experience she said she will always be grateful for.

Cllr Beard said Mr Conaghan demonstrated what it truly means to live life fully, give back, and refuse to let age define what is possible.

She added that he was a kind and genuine man who left a lasting impact, not only through fundraising but through the hope and encouragement he gave others.