Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Armagh Council Ignoring Saint Patrick Link

Published: 23 February, 2009

Sinn Féin Council Group Leader Cathy Rafferty urges council to be more proactive in the promotion of Armagh's links to Saint Patrick, saying "We in Armagh have been remiss in not utilising the connections with Saint Patrick to full advantage.In these economic times it is incumbent upon the Council to lead the way in promoting this connection .Many in the City and District will remember the parades which attracted thousands to Armagh. Howeverdue to lack of funding,the individuals who did sterling work in organising these parades havebeen discouraged from this work." This places the onus on the Council to provide adequate funding in orderto re-engage these people or others who can invigorate the Saint Patrick's day celebrations in the City and District"

"This can be an exciting project which can encompass the history, myth and legend which permeates the fabric of our historic City, we have major tourist attractions in the Navan Centre and historical buildings and sites throughout the District but lack of foresight has meant they have not attained the prominence which they deserve. We have many cultural bodies, from award winning Irish dancers to the Armagh Rhymers who can be called upon to add their input to promoting Armagh and District, we can use Living History characters also in this endeavour but we can only do this if there is a will within the Council to actively do so"

"To paraphrase one consultant "if you are not on the field playing the game then you should at least be buying a ticket for the stands to assist in the funding of those who are" we in the council must at the very least provide that funding"