No Moate parade this year

With Saint Patrick's Day preparations in full swing it has been confirmed that the annual parade will not be held in Moate this year. Bunting and flags will be put up in the town and the organising committee is preparing for a parade in 2023.

The Ballinasloe Saint Patrick's Day Parade will take place on Thursday, March 17 with assembly at the Fair Green at 1.30pm. The parade will begin at 2pm sharp and will make a circle of the town, making its way past Society Street, Main Street, Dunlo Street and Sli na Habhann before finishing up in St Michael Square.

There is a local theme this year and five categories with a winner and runner up in each category. The categories are cultural, educational, voluntary, sporting and commercial. There will also be a special cash prize for the most colourful and entertaining entry. The overall winner will receive the Tony Colohan Memorial Trophy. Carmel Grealy, secretary of the organising committee, says: “We are encouraging schools, sports clubs and businesses to come out and enjoy the day. It's a day of celebration for the businesses being back open.”

Damien Clarke, member of the parade's organising committee, said the committee is “delighted to be in a position to have a parade. The Ballinasloe town band are back after a long time. They only reformed in recent years and will be a highlight this year."

Other welcome additions to the parade will be local clubs in various sports such as GAA, camogie and rugby as well as local schools.

"We are enthusiastic about marking the occasion with different floats in the parade. We are hoping it will be a good day for all with the double bank holiday too,” Clarke says.

The organising committee is active, getting posters up and liaising with community groups. It is still seeking volunteers for stewarding and other activities on the day.