The presentation of shamrock has previously taken place annually behind closed doors due to security risks
A Northern Ireland “first of its kind” public shamrock presentation to the Royal Irish Regiment (RIR) has raised “governance concerns”.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s recent corporate committee has agreed through majority vote (13-2) to provide £10k funding for the Royal Hillsborough event on March 14.
However, there was division in the chamber over connection to a perceived lack of scrutiny on the funding for the St Patrick’s Day linked occasion.
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Sinn Féin Killultagh councillor Gary McCleave said: “Just for the record we will not be supporting this recommendation.
“I have concerns around governance especially with this. There are groups within our council who have to go through the rigorous process of funding application and scrutiny a way back to the days of groups coming into council asking for money or putting in letters. So, this request should be refused.”
Lisburn’s Thiepval Barracks is home to the 2nd Battalion RIR with Royal Hillsborough considered the Northern Ireland residence of King Charles III.
The wearing of a sprig of shamrock by the RIR hails back to an order by Queen Victoria to recognise the involvement of Irish soldiers in the Boer War. The presentation of shamrock has previously taken place annually behind closed doors due to security risks.
A council officer said: “It is anticipated that the band of the RIR, cadets and veterans will parade through Royal Hillsborough for an official presentation of shamrocks to soldiers and officers in front of family and guests by a high ranking official.
“With this event being the first of its kind in public in Northern Ireland, it is likely to receive significant attention in the press and media. It is proposed that the council provides funding support from an in year underspend of £10k to meet infrastructure costs.”
The proposal was provided support from all other parties in the chamber.
Committee chairperson, Brian Higginson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity and I am proud that my parent regiment will be there, it is a proud day for us as veterans that this event is taking place in Royal Hillsborough.”
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