Garda remembered as devoted family man and respected colleague

He was a serving member of An Garda Síochána in Ballyjamesduff.

The Cavan, Monaghan and wider Garda community has been plunged into sadness following the unexpected death of serving Garda Dermot Bland.

Garda Bland, of Bundoon, Killoe, Longford, and formerly of Fenagh, Co Leitrim, died at his home on Tuesday, August 11.

He was a serving member of An Garda Síochána in Ballyjamesduff.

Pedeceased by his parents, John-Tom and Frances, his sudden passing has left his family, friends, neighbours and Garda colleagues deeply shocked and saddened.

Gda Bland is survived by wife Caitríona and eight children- Eva, Killian, Conor, Kian, Jimmy, Sean, Daniel and Callum, brother James, father-in-law Walter Hughes, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbours and many friends.

Gda Bland's passing has also been felt profoundly by his garda colleagues, with a community Mass of remembrance held at Ballyjamesduff Garda Station.

A book of condolences was also opened at the station.

Gda Bland's removal will take place on Friday, August 14, arriving at St Mary's Church, Ennybegs, for Funeral Mass at 12 noon.

Following Mass, Dermot will be laid to rest in the New Cemetery, Cullyfad.