New committee sought to organise Moate St Patrick's Day parade

A new committee will oversee the organisation of the 2026 St Patrick's Day parade in Moate following the decision taken this week by the previous committee to step away from their positions.

In a social media post, the outgoing committee said that "due to unforeseen circumstances" they would be "stepping down" for next year's parade.

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce that, due to unforeseen circumstances, the current Moate St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee will be stepping down for next year’s parade.

Over the past three years, we’ve had the immense pleasure of helping build something truly special. It’s been a joy and a privilege, and making this decision has not been easy."

The committee expressed their gratitude to all the volunteers, businesses and parade participants who supported the national feast day pageant during their three-year term.

"We want to extend our deepest thanks to the many volunteers who have supported us, on parade day and throughout the year. You know who you are, and we are so grateful.

To the businesses in town who backed us financially, your unwavering support year after year has been the backbone of our efforts. Your generosity embodies the spirit of community.

"To the float creators, sports teams, dance clubs, businesses, and every group and individual who took part, you made the parade what it was. Without you, there would have been no celebration. Thank you so much for your creativity, effort, and enthusiasm."

Expressing a desire to see a new committee formed to lead the organisation of future parades, the committee confirmed its "commitment to ensuring a smooth handover" process.

"While we step down, we truly hope our work over the past few years has laid a foundation that others can build on. We are now actively seeking a new committee including a chairperson, treasurer, and secretary, to take over and lead the organisation of future parades.

"We’re committed to ensuring a smooth handover. All that we’ve gathered, knowledge, contacts, funds, flags, and more will be passed on. We’ll also be available at any time to offer support and advice.

"A committee meeting will be held in the coming months, and we warmly invite anyone interested in stepping into these roles to attend. If you'd like to put yourself or someone else forward, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a chat, we’d love to hear from you.

"Though this chapter ends, we have every confidence that the Moate St Patrick’s Day Parade will continue to grow, year after year," the social media post stated.

Reacting to the news, local Fine Gael Cllr Tom Farrell described the outgoing committee as "unsung heroes" for the manner in which they had put the Moate St Patrick's Day parade "back on the map".

"The committee deserve all the credit they will receive. The Moate parade is now one of the best in Ireland and it is solely due to the great work of the outgoing committee. Their efforts have to be appreciated," Cllr Farrell said.

He called on those interested to form a new committee and "maintain the high standards" which he said have been set for future editions of the national feast day parade in the town.