Plans to posthumously honour a Strabane nurse who died after contracting Covid 19 have progressed as Pat McManus will be given the Freedom of the Derry City and Strabane District.
Pat died of Covid 19 in 2020 after working at the frontline of the health service for 40 years.
Originally from the Co Tyrone town, Pat had continued to work as a nurse in England during the pandemic despite suffering from multiple sclerosis.
Although Pat had been offered a managerial role to limit his contact with patients, he opted to continue in the caring role which had been his lifelong vocation.
The local council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee approved arrangements to advance the event, which will now take place on February 28.
Members of the committee paid tribute to Pat's dedication to the wellbeing of others, and his determination to continue that service despite the significant personal risks early in the pandemic.
Councillor Martin Reilly said he hopes the gesture will convey the pride of the local community in Pat’s efforts.
Cllr Reilly added: "I am delighted to have this opportunity to recognise the contribution that Pat McManus has made throughout his life to caring for others.
“For over 40 years Pat dedicated himself to the NHS, and his family must take comfort in the many lives that were positively impacted by his work and his compassion for others.
"I hope that this honour, while it won't alleviate their grief, will demonstrate the huge debt of gratitude we feel for Pat's sacrifice, and convey the pride of an entire community in his unwavering courage and commitment to his profession."
