Mayor Hosts Civic Reception to Mark Jean Hegarty’s Retirement from the Museum of Free Derry
30 March 2026
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, has hosted a special civic reception to mark the retirement of Jean Hegarty from the Museum of Free Derry.
Held at the Guildhall on Friday, 27 March, the event brought together Ms Hegarty’s family, friends, and colleagues from the Bloody Sunday Trust to celebrate her remarkable contribution and years of dedicated service.
Mayor McHugh paid tribute to Ms Hegarty’s unwavering commitment to preserving the history and legacy of the Museum of Free Derry, as well as her tireless advocacy work.
“I would like to extend my sincere thanks and warmest congratulations to Jean for her exceptional dedication and commitment to her role at the Museum of Free Derry,” Mayor McHugh said. “Her contribution has been invaluable in ensuring that the story and significance of this important period in our history continue to be shared with future generations.”
Ms Hegarty has been a longstanding campaigner for truth and justice following the death of her younger brother, Kevin McElhinney, who was killed on Bloody Sunday.