Simon Harris described being there at the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club in Co Mayo's ribbon-cutting event for the new pitch and communal pathways as an honour.

In June 2020, Det Garda Horkan, 49, a prominent member of the Sarsfields club and native of Charlestown, was killed while doing his duties in Castlerea, County Roscommon.

Mr. Harris characterised the day as both a day of mourning for Det Garda Horkan's passing and a day of pride and celebration for the town. Following the event, the Taoiseach shared on X, writing, “A fitting tribute to him and his incredible service and impact.”

Marty, the father of Det Garda Horkan, stated that his son would be overjoyed to see the pitch.

“I'm sure he would be incredibly happy and privileged to see if he was up there looking down on us.”

He remarked that seeing young kids utilise the pitch would particularly delight his son, who assists in coaching young players.

“That's all I have to say—he was a man you wouldn't meet every day; he was truly extraordinary,” he continued.

Sunday's ceremonial launching event was graced by visitors including as Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee.