Republican News · Thursday 31 January 2002

Large attendance at commemoration for Tobias Molloy

On the 30th anniversary of the British Army killing of Fian Tobias Molloy by a rubber bullet at the 'Camel's Hump' checkpoint between Strabane and Lifford, upwards on 300 republicans from Tyrone and Donegal gathered in glorious sunshine in Clady last Sunday to pay tribute to his memory.

Led by a republican colour party, and accompanied by Strabane Memorial Flute Band, the large crowd fell in behind five local Sinn Féin cumainn banners as the parade made its way to the final resting place of Tobias at Doneyloop Cemetery just across the border in Donegal.

John Kelly, of Strabane National Graves, chaired proceedings. He asked everyone to give a special welcome to Mary, Tobias' mother, and wished her a speedy recovery following her recent illness.

In a fiery speech, local Assembly member Barry Mc Elduff said that the manner of Tobias' death was typical of Britain's contribution to Ireland. He called on everyone present to rededicate themselves to achieving the aims and objectives to which Tobias was committed.

A commemorative portrait of IRA recruit Fian Tobias Molloy was distributed to family, friends and comrades of the deceased Volunteer, as well as to each home in his native Head of the Town, prior to Sunday's event.