MD to mark 50th anniversary of Castleblayney Bombing

Fifty years ago, on March 7, 1976, at 8:20pm, a car bomb exploded outside the Three Star Inn in Castleblayney with no warning. One man, Packie Mone (56) was killed instantly and 17 other people were injured.

This fateful day was mentioned at last week’s meeting of Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District by Cathaoirleach Paul Gibbons, who felt that the 50th anniversary should be commemorated. The Sinn Féin representative stated: “I think there should be something. Monaghan and Dublin were more significant national events, but we lost one person. I think if we were to let it pass it would be a very retrograde step.”

Noting that families had contacted him about a commemoration, he suggested an Ecumenical service. Fellow Castleblayney native Aidan Campbell (FG) seconded the proposal but said it would likely be a low-key event given the lead-in time for planning.

Sinn Féin’s Noel Keelan said that he was the chair of the local authority when the 40th anniversary took place. He said a few words at the monument erected in memory of the man who lost his life. He hoped that the current Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council P.J. O’Hanlon would be available to attend.

Cllr O’Hanlon (FF) commented: “It is very important that we never forget this tragedy, for which nobody was held accountable. Fifty years on, it is a very good idea to have a small event in recognition.”

MD Cathaoirleach Gibbons concluded by saying that it was important to remember Castleblayney’s darkest day because younger people might not be aware of it otherwise.

In an update following the meeting, Cathaoirleach Paul Gibbons told the Celt that a commemoration had been organised at the Patrick Mone monument on Main Street, Castleblayney (just outside the florists), for this coming Saturday, March 7, at 2pm.

Margaret Urwin from Justice for the Forgotten will address the crowd. Family members of the late Patrick Mone will be present and say a few words too.

Cllr Gibbons extended an open invitation to all members of the community to attend the event marking a milestone in the town’s history.