Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Terence Slowey penned a heartfelt letter to Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, following the terrorist attack that claimed 22 lives last Monday. The attack also injured upwards of 60 others.
22-year-old suicide bomber Salman Abedi detonated an improvised explosive device at an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena at approximately 10:30pm on Monday night.
In a letter, Cllr Slowey offered Mayor Burnham his deepest sympathy on behalf of the people of Donegal, and expressed how there are strong familial ties between Donegal and Manchester.
Cllr Slowey said; “I am writing to you on behalf of the people of County Donegal in Ireland, to convey my deepest sympathy with you and to the people of Manchester on the tragedy that unfolded in your city on Monday night last.
“As I am sure you are aware there are many strong family connections between Donegal and Manchester and I would like to assure you that the thoughts and prayers of the people of Donegal are with all of those affected by this tragic event.
“Manchester holds a special place in the hearts of many people in Donegal and has become home to many of our emigrants over the generations.
“Manchester has a proud history of diversity and the warmth and depth of feeling shown by all communities in Manchester over the last number of days is truly inspirational especially during these very difficult times.
“I wish you, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and indeed the people of Manchester every support in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead and I hope you can take comfort in knowing that you are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Investigations are ongoing, with Abedi’s brother Ismail being one of thirteen arrested following raids across Manchester.
Abedi’s other brother Hashem and his father Ramadan, have also been arrested in Tripoli, Libya.
ISIS have claimed responsibility for the attack.
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