West Belfast Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Easter Parade and Commemoration detail launched

Published: 31 March, 2009

From left: 'Bik' McFarlane, Bobby Storey, Belfast Mayor Tom Hartley, Niall O'Donnghaile, National Graves Association Chair Liam Shannon, Annie Cahill, Ann Murray, Patrick Adams, Vincent Parker, Dessie Kennedy and councillor Margaret McClenaghan at the lau

From left: 'Bik' McFarlane, Bobby Storey, Belfast Mayor Tom Hartley, Niall O'Donnghaile, National Graves Association Chair Liam Shannon, Annie Cahill, Ann Murray, Patrick Adams, Vincent Parker, Dessie Kennedy and councillor Margaret McClenaghan at the lau

Republicans gathered at the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery today, Tuesday 31 March, for the launch of the Belfast Easter lily campaign and the launch of the Belfast Easter parade and commemoration.

Among those present at the launch was Belfast Sinn Fein Mayor Tom Hartley, National Graves Association Chairperson Liam Shannon, Belfast Sinn Fein Chairperson Bobby Storey and leading north Belfast republican Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane.

Speaking at the launch, National Graves Association chairperson Liam Shannon said:

''Easter Sunday is the most sacred date in the Republican calendar when Ireland's patriot dead are remembered with pride across Ireland and throughout the world.

''Irish republicans have come a long way and have achieved so much since 1942 and that is because of the sacrifices of our patriot dead. Every one of them is a hero and we are proud of them.

''Participating in the parade will be republicans dressed in the uniforms of those who fought in the 1916 rising and those of other generations.

''We look forward to the return of the Pikemen from Wexford, who will represent those who fought in the United Irish rebellion of 1798.

''We will have a number of bands from throughout Ireland and from Scotland which will add to the fantastic atmosphere at the parade on Easter Sunday.

''Every year we are enthused at the enormous numbers of young people who take part in the parade and wear the Easter lily to remember the sacrifices of previous generations.

''In preparation for this years event, the Easter 1916 mural at the parade assembly point at the corner of Beechmount Avenue and the Falls Road has been redone by renowned mural artist Danny Devenney and a mural marking the 100th anniversary this year of Na Fianna Eireann has been painted in Beechmount Avenue also.''

Sinn Fein Belfast Mayor Tom Hartley said:

''We want to encourage as many members of the community to come out and take part in the Easter parade and show that they are proud to be an Irish republican and proud of our republican history.''

This year's National Graves Association Easter parade takes place on Sunday, 12 April, assembling at Beechmount Avenue at 1pm before leaving at 1.30pm sharp to march to the Republican plot in Milltown Cemetery for the annual Easter commemoration where Sinn Fein President and West Belfast MP Gerry Adams will be the speaker.