Introduction

A man has been sentenced to prison for a series of sexual assaults that took place at a sacred Christian pilgrimage site in County Donegal, Ireland . Tomas Gallagher, aged 42, was convicted at Letterkenny Circuit Court for offenses that occurred at St Patrick’s Purgatory on Lough Derg in 2022.

Premeditated Assaults at a Sacred Site

Gallagher, a resident of Rathanlacky, Dunkineely, was found guilty of seven charges involving five women, including teenagers. He pleaded guilty to six charges of sexual assault and one charge of attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual touching.

The assaults occurred while Gallagher worked as a maintenance man and boat operator at the pilgrimage retreat. He deceived his victims by asking them to help fix appliances in the laundry room before committing the assaults.

In his ruling, Judge John Aylmer described Gallagher’s actions as “deceitful and premeditated” and “egregious acts of violence in a sacred place.” The offenses included a clear breach of trust, particularly due to the religious and spiritual setting of Lough Derg.

Victims Share Impact

Several of Gallagher’s victims gave powerful victim impact statements. One woman spoke of her deep sense of shame and emotional trauma. Another described how she struggled academically as a result of the abuse but ultimately triumphed by retaking her exams and reclaiming her future.

A teenage girl said she required therapy after the assault, and another woman said the incident left her unable to trust men. The emotional weight of the statements highlighted the long-lasting effects of Gallagher’s actions.

Sentencing and Probation Conditions

Gallagher received a five-year prison sentence, with the final 12 months suspended under strict conditions, including good behavior and probation supervision. He was also sentenced to concurrent terms for the other charges.

The court noted Gallagher’s early guilty plea, cooperation with authorities, and apparent remorse as mitigating factors. He had undergone counseling and was assessed by the probation service.

Church Response and Safeguarding Measures

The Diocese of Clogher issued an unreserved apology to the victims. Monsignor La Flynn, Prior of Lough Derg, confirmed that once allegations surfaced in 2022, they were immediately reported to An Garda Síochána (Irish police). Gallagher was suspended and later resigned.

In the diocese’s statement, they emphasized their commitment to strict safeguarding policies and encouraged anyone with past or present concerns to come forward.

Conclusion

The conviction of Tomas Gallagher serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals—even in places considered sacred. The bravery of the survivors and the swift response by both civil and religious authorities are crucial steps toward justice and prevention.

For more on Ireland’s Safeguarding Laws, visit our legal resources section.