Annual St Patrick’s Day parades in Newry and Downpatrick have been cancelled because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Following careful consideration of the government’s ongoing response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council made the decision to axe this year’s parades due to take place on Wednesday, March 17.
Council Chairperson, Councillor Laura Devlin said the decision to cancel for a second year in a row was made with “great regret”.
“The parades and events hosted on March 17 each year are normally an opportunity to celebrate the district’s connection with St Patrick and our important place in his story,” she said.
“I know how disappointed many of you will be. I share your disappointment. However, the Council’s priority at this time is to continue to support the ongoing response to the Covid-19 pandemic across wider society, and this decision has been made in the best interests of our local residents, visitors, festival participants and event partners.”
The Council will continue to review plans for this year’s Tourism Event’s Programme on an ongoing basis and in-line with Covid-19 guidance from the Northern Ireland Executive.
