Even the distribution of rations leaves much to be desired; the fatigue party, well-intentioned and sympathetic though it be, often finds itself short of provisions.

In early 2008 a docu-drama starring Stephen Rea was made about the life of Patrick MacGill. An annual literary summer school is held in Glenties in mid July each year in his honour. A statue in his honour is on the bridge where the main street crosses the river in Glenties.

During the First World War MacGill served with the London Irish Rifles (1/18th Battalion The London Regiment) and was wounded at the Battle of Loos on 28 October 1915. An annual literary summer school is held in Glenties in mid July each year in his honour. MacGill wrote a memoir-type novel called "Children of the Dead End".