A Derry IRA man who died while “on the run” after escaping from jail 30 years ago was remembered in the city tonight.
Over 100 people attended a commemoration held to mark the 30th anniversary of the death Patrick “Pudger” O’Hagan who died on 9 August 1986. He was aged 32.
From Rinmore Drive in Creggan, he escaped from Magilligan Prison in Co Derry in 1975 along with another prisoner, Malachy McCann.
Both hid in the rear of a prison laundry van and made good their escape when it reached the Good Shepherd Convent in the Waterside.
It is believed that prison authorities only became aware of the escape when informed by the IRA’s commanding officer in the jail.
Speaking at tonight’s commemoration held at the republican monument in Cromore Gardens, Philomena McLaughlin told those present O’Hagan became “politically active” at a young age in 1971 before “progressing” to join the IRA.
She added: “Operating in Free Derry, Patrick remained on active service until he was forced to head to Donegal following Operation Motorman.
“Setting up home in Buncrana, Patrick continued his duties as an IRA volunteer by organising training camps and assisting operations along the border.
“It was during this period he was captured and imprisoned in Magilligan and after escaping he returned to Buncrana where he set up home with his wife, Evelyn, and their young family.
“Pudger stood up for his community, whether it was protecting them from the British army or ensuring his neighbours’ problems were sorted, and he is an inspiration to all republicans in the true meaning in how we build a society based on equality generosity and fairness.
“Pudger tragically took ill and died while building a new home for his wife and four children and he is interred in Cockhill Cemetery in Buncrana, and we extend our sympathies to them tonight.
Among those present at tonight’s commemoration were Sinn Fein Foyle MLAs, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Raymond McCartney.
The lament, “Our Rivers Run Free,” was sung by Sarah Griffin.
A wreath-laying ceremony was also held in Cockhill Cemetery tonight.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 07825 711978. Or you can email john.gill@derrynews.net at any time.
