The late and great Paddy Harte has taken his seat once more, this time at his beloved Oakfield Park in Raphoe.
For decades the Fine Gael politician represented the people of Donegal in Dail Eireann.
In later life, he loved nothing more than walking through the gardens of the splendid estate developed by Gerry Robinson, his wife Heather and their family.
He would often meet and chat with Gerry and Heather about their plans for the estate and everyday life.
Ironically the couple never knew Mr Harte in his days as a politician but that didn’t stop the conversation!
Last year Gerry got to thinking about his time spent with Paddy, their chats, how he missed them and an apt way of remembering his friend.
Encouraged by his son Richard, Gerry thought a perfect way to leave a small legacy of Paddy’s time at the park would be something which could be used by walkers and what better than a bench.
Made of deal wood and marked with a brass plaque, the seat was the focal point for the unveiling along with members of the Harte family yesterday.
Among them was Paddy’s wife Rosaleen, brother Don, sister Margaret, as well as sons, daughters and grandchildren and friends.
Gerry recalled his chats with Paddy and touched on what he thought was his proudest achievement in getting recognition.
That was Paddy’s trojan efforts to have the forgotten soldiers who died in the First World War remembered and officially recognised.
Paddy’s daughter Mary also spoke a few words about her late father who would have celebrated his 88th birthday Thursday.
The extended Harte family pictured at Oakfield Park at the unveiling of a seat in memory of the Late Paddy Harte who would have celebrated his 88th birthday this Thursday.The seat was assembled by Gerry Robinson and was unveiled by Paddy Harte’s wife, Rosaleen. Photo By Brian McDaid
Mary said “It was a lovely day and a lovely gesture by Gerry, Heather and their family.
“Daddy would have loved it as he loved to have the family together and probably would have an early birthday party.
“It’s nice to think that the seat will be in Oakfield Park for people to remember Daddy by.”
