Tremendous turnout for Fermoy parade
Approximately 1,500 people took part in this year's St. Patrick's Day parade in Fermoy. Overcast from early morning, thankfully, the organisers' prayers were largely answered and it didn't rain on this particular parade.
Fittingly, an individual who has been a mainstay of the Fermoy parade for almost 4 decades, former councillor John Murphy from Quarry Lane, was chosen to lead last Friday's procession. John said it was a special occasion for himself and his family.
"As everyone knows, I'm a proud Fermoy man. The town has been very good to me and it's a tremendous honour to be at the head of such a fantastic parade. I might be a bit biased, but, I think it's the best ever," he said.
The 'best ever' description was shared by many, with over 50 groups signing up to be part of an event that celebrates the feast day of our patron saint. Voluntary groups, sports clubs, musicians, bands, dancers, former soldiers, scouts, a variety of societies, vintage enthusiasts and representatives from emergency services, all fell in behind Grand Marshal Murphy.
SUPPORTIVE GARDAI
Members of An Garda Siochana, who have a long association with the parade, put in place a very efficient traffic management plan, which kept disruption to a minimum. This support and expertise is much appreciated by parade organisers.
RUNNING COMMENTARY FROM RALPH
MC for the parade was once again, Ralph Riegel, a journalist with a national profile. Critically, he has the advantage of having plenty local knowledge, which, makes for an indepth and entertaining commentary from his perch on the reviewing stand.
YOUNG PEOPLE JUST LOVING IT
For young people and especially those taking part for the first time, the excitement associated with the 17th March is unbelievably special. Adorned in patriotic costumes and sporting their club colours, they beamed with pride, especially, when they recognised someone in the crowd.
INCLUSIVE EVENT
While there will always be room for Mass going, Fianna Fail voting and GAA loving marchers, the reality is that Ireland and Fermoy is now multi-cultural and this was reflected in the parade. For those who are new to our shores, the parade was an effortless way of blending in with locals, while at the same time, adding an exotic flavour to proceedings.
FINAL WORD TO JOHN
St. Patrick's Day parades require a lot of work and you can never have enough volunteers. Thankfully, Fermoy can rely on a core group of dedicated women and men, who give up their time to make the parade as safe as it can possibly be.
According to the 2023 Grand Marshal, the event reflected all that is positive about the famous Blackwater town.
"Today is a great day for Fermoy and I feel honoured to be part of it. It's fantastic to see so many families out enjoying themselves, I have been saying it for a long time, but it's no harm to repeat it again, Fermoy is a great town," he said.
- further coverage and parade results inside