GoFundMe raises over €70k for garda's bereaved family

Garda Dermot Bland remembered as devoted family man and respected colleague.

A GoFundMe campaign set up to support the family of the late Dermot Bland has raised €70,881 in just over 48 hours, with close to 1,000 donations made to the heartfelt appeal.

The fundraiser was established following the unexpected death of Garda Bland, who was described by those who knew him as a devoted husband, father, friend and highly regarded member of his community.

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

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

His sudden passing has left his wife, Caitríona, and their eight children devastated, while family, friends, neighbours and Garda colleagues have also been left deeply shocked by his death.

The scale of the response to the fundraiser reflects the profound impact Garda Bland had on those around him. The appeal, which has a target of €110,000, said described Gda Bland was a “wonderful, hardworking, kind” husband, father, neighbour and friend who was a “big part of the Killoe community”.

“All donations will go directly to his wife Caitriona & his family,” the appeal states.

“We would be grateful for your support to ease the burden on this devastated family.”

The remarkable response has seen tens of thousands of euro donated in a matter of days, with people encouraged to share the fundraiser among their workplaces, community groups and wider networks.

Following his sudden death Gda Bland was also remembered with great affection within the Garda community across Cavan, Monaghan and beyond.

A community Mass of remembrance was held at Ballyjamesduff Garda Station, while a book of condolences was opened at the station to allow colleagues and members of the public to pay tribute.

His family said goodbye to him at his Funeral Mass at St Mary's Church, Ennybegs, on Friday, August 14, followed by burial in the New Cemetery, Cullyfad.

Garda Bland was predeceased by his parents, John-Tom and Frances.

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

To donate to the fundraiser, click HERE.