Easter commemorations to take place across County Derry this weekend

This weekend will see a series of commemorative events organised by the County Derry and Antrim Republican Graves Association to mark the 110th anniversary of the 1916 Rising.

Speaking ahead of the events, Sinn Féin Cllr Ian Milne said: “The main commemorative parade will take place in The Loup at 2.30pm on Easter Sunday. Participants will assemble at Ballyronan Road before making their way to the graveside of Brigadier Séan Larkin, where Cathal Mallaghan MP will deliver the oration.

“This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the Easter Lily. First introduced by Cumann na mBan in 1926, it has since been worn by generations of Irish Republicans to honour the 1916 Easter Rising and all those who gave everything for Irish freedom.

“I would encourage everyone to attend the commemorative events and to wear your Easter Lily.”

Commemorations will take place in the following locations on Easter Saturday, April 4 - Glenravel at 2pm, Rasharkin at 5pm, Cargin at 6pm, Moneyglass at 6.30pm and Park village at 6pm.

On Easter Sunday, April 5, the following places will host commemorations - Maghera (Glen) at 10.30am, Coolcalm at 10.45am, Newbridge at 11.15am, Lavey at 11.40am, Dunloy at 12 noon, Dungiven at 12.30pm, Loughgiel at 12.30pm, Kilrea at 12.30pm and The Loup 2.30pm (parade) main speaker: Johnny Guirke TD.

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Meanwhile, the County Derry Annual Easter Commemoration will take place this year in Bellaghy on Easter Sunday, April 5. The procession will begin at Bellaghy Bawn at 3.30 pm and make its way to the Chapel along its usual route. The event is organised by the Sean Larkin 1916 Society South Derry.

Over the Easter weekend, wreaths will also be laid in memory of County Derry’s Republican dead. The Sean Larkin 1916 Society South Derry are urging those attending to please wear your Easter Lily with pride.

“South Derry remembers its patriot dead with pride. Fuair said bás ar son saoirse na hÉireann,” said a spokesperson.