Among those that lost their lives were two young students of Mulroy College: Leona Harper and James Monaghan, as well the mothers of two other students: Catherine O’ Donnell and Martina Martin. A number of students that were at the scene also suffered injuries, while the whole school community has been forever changed by that fateful day.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Of some comfort, however, is the compassion and support that the staff and students of Mulroy College have not just shown one another in the days and weeks that have followed, but to the whole community of Creeslough. Their maturity and compassion have lifted people up during a distressing time, and the support that they continue to offer to the locality is a tribute to all ten people that lost their lives.”

Glenties student Adam Lough received an individual recognition award.

In March 2022 The St Columba’s Comprehensive School pupil started to consider establishing a rugby club in his rural Donegal home.

He had those that are neither passionate about GAA or football but who wanted to try something new. He trained as a junior coach and referee, and held fundraisers to be able buy much needed kits and equipment to get the club off the ground. He spread the word through every avenue and reached out to all those new to the community to make sure they knew they were welcome and urged them to connect with the club. Adam has since worked with the IRFU to set-up a training programme with developmental officers who came to Donegal especially and the club is going from strength to strength.

 Adam’s efforts are best surmised in the feedback of the person who nominated him for this award, “The day I saw our first Ukrainian teammate take to the field alongside our Spanish exchange students and a whole group of young players from neighbouring townlands; Glenties, Ardara, Finntown and Doochary – I realised the impact of all of Adam’s hard work. No rivalry between places, just a solid community.”