Thousands of people to join Sinn Féin national hunger strike commemoration in Derry
The main commemoration which will leave Central Drive at 2pm
Thousands of people are expected to attend the Sinn Féin national Hunger Strike Commemoration, which takes place in Derry on Sunday.
Sinn Féin’s Mairéad Farrell, Galway TD and niece of Armagh POW and former hunger striker Mairéad Farrell, will be the main speaker at the main commemoration.
Speaking ahead of the events, Mairéad Farrell said: “It’s an honour to be asked to address the National Hunger Strike Commemoration in Derry City this weekend as we gather to remember Ireland’s 22 hunger strikers.
“We will also mark the 43rd anniversary of the 1981 hunger strike in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh, including the deaths of five men from County Derry.
“It is an extra special occasion as it will be the first time this event has been held in Derry City since 2008 after being moved online in 2021 due to the pandemic.
“We are expecting to be joined by thousands of people and many bands from right across the island and further afield.
“There is a packed programme of events taking place over the weekend, which includes political discussion, music, commemorative walks and runs, concluding with the main commemoration which will leave Central Drive at 2pm.”
Itinerary of Events
Tuesday 20th August, 6pm, Rathkeele Way, Creggan
Mickey Devine 3/5km Walk & 5/10km Run - Followed by memories shared by comrades & refreshments. Organised by Cú Chulainn Running Club
Saturday 24th August, 12pm, Gasyard Centre
Their Legacy Lives On – In conversation with former Hunger Strikers. A reflection and discussion on the impact of the Hunger Strikers in Ireland and across the world with Raymond McCartney, Séanna Walsh, Síle Darragh & Mairéad Farrell TD
Saturday 24th August, 3pm, City Cemetery
Tour of Republican Graves - Hosted by local historian and former prisoner Mickey Kinsella. Starting at the top entrance of City Cemetery
Sunday 25th August, 10am, Shantallow Monument
Óglach Bronco Bradley 3/5km Walk & 5/10km Run - Organised by Cú Chulainn Running Club
Sunday 25th August, Assemble 2pm, Central Drive, Creggan
Comóradh Bliantúil ar an Stailc Ocrais - National Hunger Strike Commemoration March. Main Speaker: Mairéad Farrell TD