There is widespread heartbreak across the Inishowen Peninsula this morning following the devastating fire that ripped through the Doagh Famine Village yesterday evening.
The full scale of the damage is still being assessed this morning, but it is understood that at least two sections of the Famine Village have been fully destroyed – a replica Orange Hall containing information about the peace process, and an area that documented the history of the travelling community.
However, the extent of the damage to the thatched cottages that consists of half of the village’s contents has not yet been confirmed.
Luckily no one was injured when the fire broke out, but the Famine Village will remain closed for an extended period as a result of the blaze.
Foul play is not being suspected as the cause of the fire at this time.
A notice was issued to customers yesterday evening, with refunds being offered to anyone who has already purchased tickets with plans of visiting the village.
“Due to circumstances outside of our control Doagh Famine Village will be closed until further notice,” they said.
“If you have booked tickets to visit us please contact us for a full refund.”
“We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you all for your kind understanding at this time.”
The village has been owned by the family of Pat and Majella Doherty for decades, and was first turned into a tourist attraction in the 1990s after Pat saw the potential in showcasing historical ways of living in Donegal.
People from across Inishowen and Donegal have expressed their deep sadness following the fire this morning.
The Clonmany Together community association shared its solidarity with the Doherty family in the wake of the stunning incident.
“Doagh Famine Village is something that everyone in our village is proud to be associated with,” the organisation said.
“As a result of Pat and Majella’s lifetime of hard work, Doagh Famine Village has boosted our community and helped to drive our local tourist economy.”
“The devastating news coming through this evening of a serious fire at the famine village shocks and saddens our entire community.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Pat, Majella and the entire family at this truly difficult time.”
“We stand together as a community ready to support them – as they have supported the entire community over the years- in any way we can.”
The operators of a neighbouring tourist attraction, the Wild Alpaca Way, have also expressed their solidarity to all involved with the Famine Village – offering the same support and encouragement to the Doherty family that was offered to them when they began their business.
“We at Wild Alpaca Way are deeply saddened by the recent fire at the Famine Village. It’s heartbreaking to see damage done to such an important part of our community and heritage,” they said.
“Pat and Majella Doherty have been a constant source of inspiration and support since the very beginning of our journey.”
Their kindness and encouragement meant the world to us when Wild Alpaca Way was just starting out.”
“They’ve played an instrumental role in shaping the tourism landscape of Inishowen, helping put this beautiful place on the map for visitors from across the world.”
“We know the Famine Village will continue to stand strong thanks to the resilience and dedication of Pat, Majella, and their incredible team. They have our full support as they move forward and rebuild, and we’re proud to stand with them as part of the Inishowen tourism community.”
Messages of support have also been offered by local politicians on the Inishowen peninsula.
Buncrana Councillor Jack Murray said that the news was “devastating.”
“Absolutely devastating news from the Isle of Doagh today. Inishowen has lost a wee bit of our soul if we lose the Famine Village.”
“Thinking of Pat and all his clan who have made that wonderful place such a popular tourist attraction. We’re all at a loss.”
