The city’s recent track record with art installations doesn’t bode well, as recently highlighted in this newspaper, with lights not working at Mute Meadow for the best part of 14 years.
That artwork already divided opinion, and without the lights it is rendered useless — invisible at night and resembling construction pilings during the day.
A post has been doing the rounds about the factory girls work, suggesting it resembles something left behind by “three Derry dogs on the prowl” (I’ll leave that to your imagination).
Derry is proud of its factory girls heritage and holds these women in the highest esteem, so it was always important to get this right.
An impressive-looking sewing machine sculpture had been in the works by artist Louise Walsh, but was scrapped after £85,000 of public money had already been spent.
Let’s hope that, when the wrapping comes off, people can be united in admiration.
Hospice pioneer’s story told in book
A new book celebrating the life of Gweedore man Dr Tom McGinley, the founder of the Foyle Hospice, is to be launched in Derry next week.
He was a GP, marathon runner, papal knight and friend of Brendan Duddy, who was key to back-channel negotiations for peace in Northern Ireland.
There isn’t a family in the city that hasn’t been touched by the work of Dr McGinley.
Trying desperately to control the severe pain of a young man dying at home from bone cancer, and feeling he had utterly failed, Dr McGinley determined never to allow this to happen to anyone else.
He decided the north west needed a hospice and turned that vision into reality.
Written by his colleague Dr Keith Munro, the launch will take place in St Columb’s Hall in the city on Wednesday, January 29, at 7.15pm.
Sets in the city for mayor
Derry’s mayor, who made history as the first black woman to hold the role, has been introduced to traditional Irish dancing.
Lilian Seenoi-Barr joined talented dancers at the Guildhall for this year’s annual céilí. “Seeing so many set dancers from across Ireland gathered in our iconic building was simply incredible,” she said. “I’m always inspired by those who dedicate themselves to keeping traditions like set dancing alive.
“This is more than just a dance, it’s a gift to this generation and the generations to come. By preserving this beautiful piece of Irish culture, you’re enriching our shared heritage, and for that, we are deeply grateful.”