Destroyed tourist attraction in Donegal was uninsured for fire as fundraiser launched for rebuild

Irish Independent

06-05-2025

A fire destroyed two-thirds of the iconic Doagh Famine Village at Lagacurry, Ballyliffin on the Inishowen Peninsula.
The blaze broke out around 3.30pm on Saturday afternoon and spread through the site.
The site was busy with customers but it was safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.
The fire service rushed to scene to try and bring the fire under control.
It is believed the blaze may have been caused by an air compressor for one of the displays.
The fire claimed irreplaceable parts of the village — including the buildings dedicated to the famine, the peace process, and the Traveller community.
Another devastating loss for the owners is the memorabilia and historical objects that local groups and organisations had donated to the Famine Village for use in their displays.
As the thatched buildings could not be insured affordably, there is no coverage for the buildings damaged in the fire.
Due to the cost of rebuilding the site, a GoFundMe page has been launched by local businessman John Mc Gonagle of Wild Alpaca Way.
The page has been set up with a target of €100,000 and so far, over €35,000 has been raised.
The money raised will be used to restore the damage buildings, replace the lost and fire damaged exhibits and in time, reopen the doors of the tourist attraction.
The fundraiser reads, 'We're asking for your help to rebuild this one-of-a-kind cultural landmark.
'Your donation will go directly toward restoring the damaged buildings, replacing lost exhibits, and hopefully reopening the doors to a place that has meant so much to so many.
"Local farmers, the fire service, and the community have already rallied to help — but we need wider support to bring Doagh Famine Village back to life.
'Whether you've visited the village yourself, learned from its stories, or simply believe in preserving our shared history, please consider supporting this cause.
"Every euro will make a difference.
'Let's help ensure that future generations can once again walk through the doors of Doagh Famine Village and connect with Ireland's story — told by the people who've lived it.
'Thank you for your kindness, support, and belief in the power of history to bring us together.'
Founded by Pat Doherty in 1997, Doagh Famine Village is widely regarded as 'one of the North West's most beloved and unique tourist attractions.'
It has been a place where generations have come to understand Ireland's past through powerful storytelling, life-size exhibits, and a deeply personal connection to the local community.
It's guided tours took participants on a journey showing how families learned to survive and adapt as society evolved from the Great Famine in the 1840s to the present day.
Many of the thatched buildings were replicas of historical sites like a Republican safe house, an Orange Hall, a Presbyterian Meeting House, and others preserving the stories of Travellers, Irish traditions, and rural life.
This village was self-sustaining, relying solely on visitor income, with no government funding or large sponsorships.
Local Councillor Martin McDermott said the community has been left 'devastated' by the news that Doagh Famine Village has been badly damaged by a large fire.
'Our thoughts are with Pat, Majella, Family and all the team during this incredibly difficult time.
'Doagh Famine Village plays a vital role in Inishowen tourism and is a cherished part of our local heritage.
"The entire tourism community across Inishowen stands ready to support Pat and his team in any way we can in the days and weeks ahead,' said Cllr McDermott.
Businesses throughout Inishowen have offered support to the Doherty family following the fire.
On Thursday, May 8, all ticket sales at Wild Ireland will go directly to Pat and Majella.
Binion Bay Caravan and Camping Facility said people are still in shock about the devastating fire at Doagh Famine Village.
"35 years of work, investment, commitment, care and attention to business.
"While everyone else is on a break you are the ones providing the great experiences, it's very hard work.
"We understand the sacrifices all along the way for a family run business.
'35 years of people supporting the famine village by donating their memorabilia knowing it was being showcased to the world.
"We know our whole community, Inishowen, Donegal and all our international visitors are in shock too.
"There is nothing but support here from all of the community and so many people have been calling each other with the words rolling of their lips 'we will have to give a hand, we will help get this sorted '.
'Pat, Majella and extended families will have tremendous support from the locals , the visitors, and the tourism agencies, because this has been an iconic tourism provision built from the ground up with hard work, belief and dedication all along the way.
"It's time for you to experience the support that's there for you.'
A Garda spokesperson said, 'Gardaí assisted the local fire service at the scene of a fire at a premises in Ballyliffin, Co. Donegal on Saturday, 3rd May 2025. 'Emergency services were alerted to the fire at approximately at 4pm.
"The fire was subsequently extinguished.
'There were no reports of injuries.
'A technical examination of the scene has been completed.'