President to perform bridge re-naming
President of Ireland Michael D Higgins will visit Ballisodare this Fridayto perform the official naming ceremony of the ‘Martin Savage Bridge’.
The ceremony is expected to get underway at 4.00pm.
The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Seamus Kilgannon said he looked forward to welcoming the President to Ballisodare. “This is a very special occasion for the Savage family, the local community and our Council, and we are very grateful to President Higgins for travelling to County Sligo to perform this ceremony. I also want to pay tribute to the many people who are working hard to prepare the area and make the various arrangements necessary for the visit.” The formalities will take place in a marquee erected in the Ball Alley on the Ballina Road.
The President will be welcomed by the Cathaoirleach Councillor Kilgannon, Chief Executive Ciarán Hayes, and Councillor Thomas Healy on behalf of the local organising committee.
The President will be introduced to local school chil- dren and community groups, followed by speeches by the President, Cathaoirleach and Rita Savage on behalf of the Savage family.
Music will be performed by Children from Scoil Mhuire and Iosaf and Ballisodare Foroige Club. The naming ceremony will take place on the bridge immediately afterwards.
The President will also visit Gaelscoil Chluainín, Manorhamilton on Friday. which is celebrating its 10 th anniversary this year. He will visit the classrooms, survey the children’s work and deliver a speech The school has been given a face-lift in advance of the much anticipated visit.