Two St Patrick’s Day parades have been cancelled in Laois today.
Neither Mountmellick or Durrow will have their annual celebrations this year.
The Boglands Festival, the name of the parade in Mountmellick this year, announced the news on social media this afternoon.
Citing concerns about the Coronavirus, they confirmed their decision and hoped to reschedule in the summer.
They said: “We have just finished our 3rd emergency meeting regarding covid-19.
“We would like to inform you that we have decided to postpone Boglands 2020 until Further Notice and this years St Patrick’s day parade in Mountmellick is cancelled as of now.
“Due to the continued community spread, we cannot put our most vulnerable citizens at risk as we are a family centered event for all. We hope to postpone the festival until a further date possibly summer time.
“As a community group our first priority is our people and our work as a community care team will now be at the forefront to help assist all our services and provide as much assistance as possible as seen during the recent flooding.
“Our community will always be put first! We will assist in anyway possible and have activated our community response team to put in place measures to assist in anyway possible. We are available on 085 213 5119 at all times.
“If we can assist in any way please contact us!! We are also in the process of establishing a clean team to help combat the continued spread with the aim of disinfecting public areas eg local bus stops etc.
“We know that this may cause disappointment to all our performers groups etc but we will be back again bigger and better then ever before for now we advise that we all work together to help and guide each other through this. Stay safe and make sure to wash your hands.
“Thanks so much to all our team for all there hard work so far. Thanks to all our front-line health and emergency services. Stay safe!”
Meanwhile, due to the sad passing of Durrow St Patrick’s Day parade treasurer Mary Walsh, their parade is cancelled for this year.
Organisers say: “Due to the passing of our treasurer Mary Walsh and as a mark of respect to Mary and her family, a decision has been made not to run this year’s Durrow St. Patrick’s day parade.
“Mary was very much involved in volunteering in Durrow over her lifetime and her passing is a huge loss to her family and the community of Durrow.
“Your life was love and labour, Your love for your family true, You did your best for all of us, We will always remember you.
“Rest in Peace Mary and may you already be joined with Shane and those who have passed before you.”
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