THE family of Paul Buchanan, the Ramelton man who has been missing since a kayaking incident off the Donegal coast last October, have offered their thanks to all who have helped them and continue to offer support.
Today (Thursday) marks six months since Paul failed to return to Magheragallon Pier in Gaoth Dobhair after he went kayaking on the evening of Thursday, October 3.
A massive sea search was immediately launched and on the Friday evening, less than 24 hours after the alarm was raised, Paul’s kayak was found nearly 5km north of Tory.
However, despite a major sea search involving a number of rescue services including Arranmore RNLI, Bunbeg Coast Guard and divers from Sheephaven Sub Aqua Club, Paul’s body has never been found.
On the six month anniversary, Paul’s wife Bernadette and the couple’s sons Mark (19) and Martin (15) say they want to let people know that their help and support has been appreciated, and that the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for their intentions.
In an email to the Donegal News, Bernadette (née McFadden, Kilmacrennan Road, Milford) said: “On Thursday, April 3 it will be six months (16 weeks) since our darling Paul Buchanan, Ramelton failed to make it back safely to Magheragallon Pier, Gaoth Dobhair after a kayaking incident. Our darling Paul’s precious body has not yet been recovered.
“I, Bernadette, together with our two sons Mark (19) and Martin (15), wish to thank everyone who has helped us in any way over the past number of months and who indeed continue to help us as we try to navigate our way through this.
“The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered up for your intentions.”
Mr Buchanan, pictured below, a popular chartered accountant, was very well known all across the county and was actively involved in a host of local groups and organisations.
He was Minor Board Secretary with CLG Baile Na nGalloglach (Milford GAA club) and the club organised a special fundraising walk in his memory at Christmas which raised funds for Arranmore RNLI and Sheephaven Sub Aqua Club.
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