Enniskillen bomb memorial to be unveiled on 30th anniversary

by Gráinne Connolly

Planning permission has been granted by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council for a memorial to be built on site of the 1987 Enniskillen Poppy Day bomb. 

On November 8, 1987 the Provisional IRA blew up the Remembrance Day service in Enniskillen. 

11 people were killed and 60 others were injured. 

The Ely Centre in Enniskillen received confirmation of plans for the Remembrance Memorial last Tuesday (26th July).

The project will be the culmination of many years of dedication and hard work by the Ely Centre who work with and support families of the bereaved. 

They try to ensure that their loss and suffering is recognised in an appropriate manner, and that any hurt caused is never forgotten or repeated. 

In a recent statement the Ely Centre paid tribute to all families for their support in the run up to the project. 

"The families have been a source of inspiration, guidance and encouragement to all the team involved in the planning and fundraising elements of the project. 

"It is our hope that on the 30th Anniversary of the Poppy Day Bomb when it is planned to unveil the memorial that it will be a source of remembrance and comfort to them and all affected at such a difficult time."

The Ely Centre also paid tribute to all individuals, businesses and organisations across Northern Ireland and the Mainland who donated to the project. 

"The Centre have been humbled by the kindness of many organisations who have financially supported the project and as we approach the completion of our fundraising phase, we are all indebted to each and every one who has given of their time and resources to support this cause."

To conclude the statement, they also thanked the staff of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council "for their professional and respectful support throughout this process."

They said the process "has been conducted in a sensitive and respectful manner and from an organisational perspective this has been appreciated."

The memorial will be built by specialist stonemasons McConnell and Sons; who have also completed works including The National Arboretum in Lichfield and the Princess Diana Memorial. 

Work is due to commence in the coming weeks and is scheduled to finish by October 2017. 

A 30th Anniversary Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving is currently in development.

Further details of the event which will take place on 8th November 2017 will be announced in due course.