Memorial marks 50 years since Garda killed in bomb attack

A solemn memorial service is to be held today to honor Garda Michael Clerkin, whose life was tragically cut short 50 years ago today in a bomb attack on the border between Laois and Offaly. On the fateful day of October 16, 1976, a call from an anonymous tipster informed five Gardaí that IRA members were present at an abandoned farmhouse at Garryhinch, intending to ambush then TD Oliver J Flanagan.

Upon entering the house, Garda Michael Clerkin, a 24-year-old, was instantly killed when a gas cylinder packed with explosives detonated. His colleagues, Sergeant Jim Cannon, Detective Ben Thornton, Detective Tom Peters, and Garda Gerry Bohan, were gravely injured, with Detective Tom Peters suffering permanent blindness and deafness.

Although the IRA is widely believed to have orchestrated the bombing, no one was ever held accountable.

Garda Michael Clerkin's first cousin, Jamie Mac Giolla Bháin, recalls the story his grandmother Mary would tell him. Jamie's grandmother, a devoted supporter, often spoke of the young Garda's bravery and the tragedy of his untimely death. Following the bombing, Garda Clerkin's funeral took place at St Macartan's Cathedral in Monaghan town on October 19, 1976. Thousands of Gardaí from across Ireland gathered to mourn their fallen brother.

After a protracted struggle for recognition, the Gardaí involved in the incident received the prestigious Garda Scott Medal for Bravery in 2017. The decision was made by then-Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan, whose father, Oliver J Flanagan, was the targeted TD. Jamie Mac Giolla Bháin notes that the Gardaí were awarded the medal posthumously, while the other four comrades received their medals in a ceremony in Templemore, attended by Charlie Flanagan, now serving as the country's Minister for Justice.

Jamie's recent publication, "Thundering Disgrace," delves into the murder of Garda Michael Clerkin, the assassination of British Ambassador Christopher Ewart-Biggs, and the resignation of President Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh during one of Ireland's most tumultuous periods, ultimately leading to the unprecedented resignation of the nation's President.