Two special ceremonies took place in South Donegal today to plant trees and install tributes to those who passed away in recent months.
In the absence of traditional Irish funerals during Covid-19, the memorials remember all who have died and who have suffered a loss. They have also been placed as a symbol of the support that the communities have been unable to give to grieving relatives during recent months.
In Ballyshannon, a tree was planted and a bench was placed at Allingham Park. Members of the emergency services, a member of An Garda Síochána, a nurse and a paramedic shared the role of planting the tree.
Ballyshannon tree planting. Photos: Eamonn Duffy
The ceremony was organised by various local community groups, who were all represented at the event. Canon Brian Russell and Fr Cathal Ó Fearraí were in attendance.
Later in Bundoran, a tree was also planted and a plaque was placed behind the Tourist Office.
Members of the public are now invited to place ribbons, with a message, on the trees in memory of loved ones. Ribbons are available in American House and News and Views in Bundoran and Kernans Spar and Clerys Garage in Ballyshannon if people wish to do so at a quieter time in the future.
