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06 Sept 2025

Doagh Famine Village warn of potential online fundraising scams after fire

Social media comments from locals and visitors have suggested setting up a GoFundMe to help restore the Ballyliffin tourist attraction, although owner Pat Doherty said none have been confirmed as yet

Doagh Famine Village warn of potential  online fundraising scams after fire

Pat Doherty has been working at Doagh Famine Village since 1997

The owner of Doagh Famine Village has warned of potential scams online claiming to be fundraisers following extensive fire damage yesterday.

A fire broke out on Saturday afternoon and owner Pat Doherty confirmed that it was not possible to insure the site because of its thatched roofs. Social media comments from locals and visitors have suggested setting up a GoFundMe to help restore the Ballyliffin tourist attraction, although Mr Doherty said none have been confirmed as yet.

“Please beware, there is no GoFundMe page for Doagh famine village at this moment,” he posted. “Any that are there are not confirmed and may be scams. Thank you for all the support.”

READ NEXT: 'A total disaster' - owner says Doagh Famine Village was uninsured for fire

Doagh Famine Village posted the following statement on their social media channels: “We can confirm that a serious fire occurred at Doagh Famine Village on the afternoon of Saturday, 3rd May. The blaze broke out at approximately 3.30pm at the rear of the complex, spreading quickly throughout the site.

“Thanks to the rapid response and tireless efforts of four fire engines and their crews, the fire was brought under control before it reached the older part of the village, where the ancestral home is located. While the incident caused extensive damage to approximately half of the site, the area was quickly evacuated and thankfully no injuries were sustained.

“Forensic investigators are on site to begin examining the cause of the fire and we are fully cooperating with the investigation and awaiting further updates. As a result of the damage, Doagh Famine Village will remain closed until further notice. We deeply regret any disruption this may cause to visitors and ask for your understanding during this difficult time.

“Those with pre-booked tickets may contact us at info@doaghfaminevillage.com to arrange a refund. We would like to sincerely thank all those who have reached out with messages of support during this difficult time. We are incredibly grateful to the emergency services for their brave and dedicated efforts on Saturday afternoon. While this is a heartbreaking moment for all of us, we are committed to rebuilding and will share updates as soon as we are able.”

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