Priest appeals for feud to stop at Barney McGinley funeral

A priest has appealed for feuding members of the Travelling community to turn away from violence.

The call was made at the funeral of 63-year-old Barney McGinley, who was laid to rest in Athlone this afternoon.

McGinley was shot at a wedding in Co Fermanagh last week. It is believed Mr McGinley was killed as a result of a long-running feud.

There was a huge garda presence in Athlone for the funeral - which was attended by up to 500 people.

In his homily at St Mary’s church this afternoon, Fr Turlough Baxter urged those involved in the feud to end it.

“Violence can never be the answer, because all it does is foster more hurt and violence and delays the day of justice,” said Fr Baxter.

Mr McGinley is survived by his wife Bridget, nine children and 49 grandchildren.