Martin McGill (49) lost his life along with nine others in the blast earlier this month
Strathkelvin and Bearsden MSP Rona Mackay has led tributes in the Scottish Parliament to Kirkintilloch-born Martin McGill who tragically died in the Creeslough petrol station explosion earlier this month.
Mr McGill (49) lost his life along with nine others in the blast in County Donegal in the north west of Ireland on October 7.
The local SNP MSP put forward a motion expressing parliament’s sympathies to Mr McGill’s family and paid tribute to the former local man’s devotion to his elderly parents, which was supported by fellow MSPs across the political spectrum.
In her motion, Ms Mackay said: “Parliament expresses its deep sadness at the death of Martin McGill, aged 49, originally of Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire, who tragically lost his life in the petrol station explosion at Creeslough, County Donegal, on 7 October 2022.”
She added: “I understand Mr McGill moved to Creeslough from Scotland in 2001 to look after his parents. He was devoted to his family and continued to care for his elderly mum after his father passed away. Parliament celebrates the life of Mr McGill, who, it understands, was described at his funeral as a beautiful, gentle soul.
“We should also extend our heartfelt sympathies to Mr McGill’s family, the families of the other nine people who died in the blast and to those who sustained injuries.
“The efforts of local emergency services, rescuers and volunteers who assisted An Garda Siochana – the Irish Police Service must be commended. We hold the community of Creeslough in our thoughts.”