30th anniversary of Derry republican Seán Keenan marked

Michael McGonagle looks on as the proclamation is read.

placeholder image — Michael McGonagle looks on as the proclamation is read.

A commemoration to mark the 30th anniversary of the death of Seán Keenan was held in Derry on Sunday.

Mr Keenan, who died on March 3, 1993 was interned without trial on three occasions, between 1940-45, 1957-1961 and 1971-1972. He served a total of 15 years in prison despite never having been convicted of any charge.

Nora Canning and Roisin Barton, the daughters of Seán Keenan, laid flowers at the beginning of the ceremony, while a wreath was laid of behalf of the leadership of Republican Sinn Féin (CIRA) by Anthony Lancaster.

Wreaths were also laid by Damian Harkin, on behalf of the Ulster Executive of Republican Sinn Féin, and by Mary Ward (RSF) at the memorial for the 14 civilians murdered on Bloody Sunday.

Hester McElhinney recited a decade of the rosary while Saoirse McElhinney read the 1916 proclamation.

The oration was delivered by Republican Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle member Martin Duffy (Lurgan).

Michael McGonagle (Dungiven), who chaired proceedings, ended by singing Amhrán na bhFiann.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, March 12, Republican Sinn Féin will be holding a commemoration to mark the 100th anniversary of the Drumboe Martyrs who were executed by a Free State firing squad in March 1923.

The event will be held in Stranorlar, County Donegal at 2.30pm.