Hugh O’Neil.
The memorial garden honouring the late Hugh O’Neil will officially break ground on September 26.
Monday night, councillor Duncan Armstrong told Quinte West council that a public Hugh O’Neil Friendship Garden sod turning event will take place on the grounds of the Trent Port Marina at 6:30 p.m.
The main feature of the garden designed by Modern Earthscapes Land Design is a steeled barre monument with a picture of O’Neil on it with the inscription ‘Hugh O’Neil Garden, come my friends and rest awhile.’ The memorial also showcases the five pillars honouring O’Neil’s many roles as an educator, entrepreneur, statesman, culture supporter and volunteer. O’Neil died in September 2015. He served as Liberal member for the former Quinte riding for 20 years, from 1975 to 1995.
In an interview, Armstrong said the garden committee has raised $35,000 of its $60,000 goal. They will be holding another fundraising event at Seasons Dufferin Centre in Trenton after the sod turning.
For those wishing to donate, cheques can be sent to: Hugh O’Neil Friendship Garden P.O.Box 427 Trenton Ontario K8V 5R6
