Organisers slam 'unfair' decision by Kilkenny Castle to move event

Organisers of a family friendly kite-flying event have voiced their concerns over a change in venue from the grounds of Kilkenny Castle to the Parade last Sunday.

The South East Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign organised the event to remember the children who have been killed, injured, displaced and orphaned in Gaza.

An email received by the IPSC SE signed by Kilkenny Castle management stated that 'no political rallies take place on OPW land'.

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The email signed by the management of Kilkenny Castle stated that 'it is our understanding that this a political rally'.

"As this is a publicly owned state property in the care of the OPW - a national Historic Property - and in keeping with established policy - even if the aforementioned requirements had been complied with it would not be possible to accommodate a proposed Palestine Rally at Kilkenny Castle Park.

"While all individuals are free to support or encourage campaign groups, including those with a political agenda, the first duty of the public service is to be totally independent.  As there is a political dimension to the proposed event, and as an OPW property, it means that while respecting the right to protest, this event cannot take place at this location."

The IPSC SE said the decision was 'unfair' and replied outlining that it was in no way a political rally and was just people flying their kites.

The IPSC SE highlighted that neither the Castle nor the OPW was 'independent' when it came to Ukraine when Kilkenny Castle along with other OPW sites were illuminated in blue and yellow in a sign of Ireland's unwavering support for Ukraine.