Mark Finlay, Officer in Charge Assistant Commander of the Order of Malta, has been chosen as the grand marshal for this year's St Patrick Day's parade in Athlone on Monday, March 17

Order of Malta chief to lead Athlone St Patrick's Day parade

Ronan Fagan

Published: Mon 3 Mar 2025, 11:26 AM

Officer in Charge Assistant Commander of the Order of Malta, Mark Finlay, has been confirmed as grand marshal of the Athlone St. Patrick's Day parade on Monday, March 17.

Confirming the announcement, Croi na hÉireann Festival chairperson, John Henson, said that the Order of Malta were the unsung heroes of every town, village, festival and event throughout the country.

"The Order of Malta work in the background and on the sidelines wherever the general public are gathered and it is fitting that Mark Finlay, who celebrates 40 years with the organisation this year, should lead our St Patrick's Day parade," Mr Henson said.

His thoughts were echoed by Cllr Frankie Keena, who said that he looked forward to seeing Mark and the Order of Malta crew "in the spotlight instead of supporting from the shadows" and duly receiving the recognition they deserve.

The St Patrick's Day parade marks the culmination of the five day Croi na hÉireann Festival which starts in the town on March 13.