Bradley welcomes launch of Irish Famine Commemoration in Newry

Its the first time since the famine commemoration event was established eight years ago that it will be held in the North and Newry and Armagh MLA Dominic Bradley, member of the Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure welcomed the launch of An Gorta Mór, the Irish Famine Commemoration at Newry Museum on Saturday.

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Commenting Mr Bradley said “I welcome the plans which were launched by the Minister of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphries. The main ceremony will take place at the Albert Basin in Newry on 26th September. I want to congratulate the local group lead by Dr. Anthony Russell, who worked so hard to bring the event to the North and particularly to Newry.

“This will be an opportunity for all to reflect on the plight of our ancestors and acknowledge those from all faiths who suffered during the famine. The famine was a time of unspeakable horror for the island of Ireland. During the years of 1845-1849, Ireland suffered with death and emigration, which has impacted on our society. 

“I welcome the cross border co-operation which has taken place between the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, and locally with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.  Along with the community here, and indeed, the wider community I look forward to participating in the events associated with the event.”