It was a happy occasion in the offices of the Irish News, the newspaper in which he had been Chief Reporter in the 1880s and 1890s, when a blue plaque was unveiled to John McKay - honouring his role in the formation of the GAA in Hayes Hotel, Thurles on 1 November 1884.

The hunt for the only Ulsterman to be at that seminal event was an epic story in its own right and Noel Doran, the Editor, paid tribute to the investigative skills and persistance of those involved in bring it to a successful conclusion. Tom Daly, GAA Ulster President, said how honoured they were to have found the evidence of his birthplace in Downpatrick and resting place in London and to have been able to place a suitable memorial on his grave. This plaque was a fitting tribute in his province. He also thanked the Irish News for the dedicated coverage they gave to GAA events; Ulster was the envy of the other provinces in such coverage.

Philomena McConvey, McKay's grand-neice, unveiled the plaque.

Some photos of the event are shown below.