Centenary Memorial Honors Fallen Civic Guard in Belturbet Shooting
Fri 25 Aug 2023, 3:03 PM
A century after the death of an off-duty civic guard in a Belturbet shooting, a memorial event was held at his graveside in Galway. Organized by the An Garda Siochána Retired Members’ Association (GSRMA), the event at Killimor Old Cemetery was attended by dignitaries, including Fianna Fáil Minister of State at the Department of Health, Anne Rabbitte, and Fine Gael Councillor Jimmy McClearn.
During the ceremony, about 90 serving and retired gardaÃ, including some from Cavan and Monaghan, paid tribute to Garda Michael Lyons. Chief Superintendent Gerry Roche, divisional officer of Galway, represented the police force. The event was marked by performances from the North West Garda ceremonial unit, who carried the national flag and Garda flags. Grand nephew of Garda Lyons, Padraig Lyons, was presented with a centenary medal and his uncle’s certificate of service.
To commemorate Garda Lyons, a specially commissioned plaque was unveiled. The Last Post and the National Anthem were played by Garda James McCaffrey, bugler with the Garda Band, while Fr Joe Kennedy, chaplain to the Garda Siochana, offered spiritual support.
Joe Dirwin, President of the GSRMA and a native of Galway, highlighted the significance of the event, remarking that even though he and Garda Lyons were separated by 50 years in their careers, they could still consider him one of our own.
Born to Thomas and Mary (nee Raferty) from Ramore, Killimor, near Ballinasloe, Garda Lyons joined the newly-formed Civic Guards in March 1922. During his time in the force, he served in Glaslough and Clones, Co Monaghan.
On August 16, 1923, tragedy struck when Garda Lyons was fatally shot. The incident occurred on his way back to Clones from a dance in Belturbet. The car carrying Garda Lyons, his fiancée Mary McFadden, and others was ordered to halt by a military sentry. Although they informed the sentry of their innocent intentions, a single shot was fired, striking Garda Lyons and seriously wounding his fiancée. Despite receiving first aid and undergoing surgery, Garda Lyons tragically died later that morning.
An investigation into the incident concluded that it could have been avoided had a warning shot been fired, as per military orders. It was noted that Garda Lyons had left the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) because he refused to take up arms against his fellow countrymen.
The shooting resulted in the arrest of Private Laurence Mullaghton, who was later charged with manslaughter. However, the jury found him guilty of manslaughter instead of murder, believing he had acted under orders. Mr. Justice O’Shaughnessy released him on probation.
Grief and support were evident throughout the funeral procession, with businesses closing and blinds being drawn as the cortège passed through the streets. When the motor carrying Garda Lyons’ remains arrived in Ballinasloe, crowds lined the streets to pay their respects.
The commemorative event honoring Garda Michael Lyons a century after his tragic death serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women of An Garda Siochána. The attendance of serving and retired gardaÃ, as well as the presence of government officials, reflects the ongoing appreciation for their service and dedication to protecting the community.
