Sinn Fein Launch Annual Easter Lily Campaign

Newry Sinn Féin has launched their annual Easter Lily campaign and are encouraging all republicans to wear their Easter Lily with pride. 

Speaking at the launch, Cllr. Aidan Mathers said; “For generations Irish republicans have worn Easter Lilies as an a act of solemn commemoration of the men and women who gave their lives in pursuit of Irish freedom, independence and unity. 

“Every year at Easter we remember the 1916 Easter Rising and the men and women from throughout history who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of a free and united Ireland. 

“Republican activists will be distributing Easter Lilies across Newry in the coming days. We’re also encouraging as many people as possible to participate in Easter commemoration events this year. We have organised a walking tour of St. Mary’s Cemetery on Saturday, April 12th at 11am. This tour will include presentations on our patriot dead who are interred in St. Mary’s.

“The main event, Easter Sunday’s parade, will be assembling on Monaghan Street, Newry, at 11:30am and proceed to St. Mary’s. The keynote speaker will be Carál Ní Chuilín, Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast. All are welcome to attend.”

Speaking after the launch, Sinn Féin MP for Newry and Armagh, Dáire Hughes said; “On Easter Monday, 1916, a band of brave patriots rose up in defiance of British rule and struck for their freedom. These men and women – workers, trade unionists, gaelgeoirí, feminists, educationalists – republicans all, inspired revolutionary ideals that defined an epoch and continue to inspire united Irelanders to this day. For over a century republicans have remembered their actions and sacrifices with pride.

“The prospect of building a new and united Ireland has never been so great. The debate on our constitutional future is live and growing by the day. It’s long past time that the Irish government gets serious about planning for our constitutional future. They must move to establish a Citizens’ Assembly on Irish unity to give citizens from all backgrounds the opportunity to have their say on our own future. 

“Sinn Féin’s strong all-Ireland team will continue to work hard to plan and prepare for a referendum on Irish unity, and to build a brighter future for workers and families across Ireland.”