The 37th Anniversary Commemoration for Jim was led by the Strabane Memorial Republican Flute Band, Jim’s family, and many republicans from throughout Tyrone and Donegal including many Ógra Shinn Féin activists.
The presence of so many young republicans was particularly apt, as Jim was only 20 years of age, when he was killed on active service on the 15th December 1973, close to the bridge.
Following wreaths being laid on behalf of the family and Sinn Féin, former political prisoner and Brixton Escapee Pearse McCauley give the main oration, noting Jim’s early politicising in being involved with the young Socialists, the Civil Rights Movement and his commitment and dedication as a young IRA Volunteer. Pearse spoke of Jim’s ultimate sacrifice, inspiring many many young people from Strabane, and how it was great to see his family as steadfast and committed so many years on, paying particular tribute to Jim’s mother, who has attended the annual commemoration every year without fail.
Following Pearse’s oration, the short march back to Clougfhfinn was concluded with the Strabane Memorial RFB playing Amhran na bhFiann.
Strabane Ógra Shinn Féin spokesperson Sean Gillespie said,
“Jim McGinn was a very brave young volunteer who knew well the importance of developing republican politics, from an early age he immersed himself in the young Socialists and the Civil Rights Movement, before making the conscious decision to join the IRA, in which he played a leading role until his untimely death.”
“Jim is of constant inspiration to young republican activists today. We are honoured and feel privileged to be continuing on his legacy in achieving the ultimate freedom of our country and creating a society that lives up to the aspirations of our patriot dead. Nothing short will be suffice; a United Ireland as outlined in the Proclamation will be the only true monument to our gallant fallen comrades like Jim.”
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