This article is from page 14 of the 2011-04-12 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
TEENAGE drinking marred an otherwise celebratory occasion to mark St Patrick’s Day in Shannon.
The organisers of the parade were delighted with the response, which saw more than 30 floats take to the streets. However, teenagers who gathered to drink alcohol dampened spirits somewhat, according to Independent Councillor Patricia McCarthy.
“This year the colour was fantastic. Everybody puts in a big effort to dress up,” she said. However, she said there was disappointment in relation to the behaviour of a small number of youths. “A little sad note was the amount of teenagers that were drinking. We had no control over that. We brought in the by-laws. . . A lot of people were disappointed by that,” said Cllr McCarthy.
“It was a fantabulous day,” remarked the chief organiser of the parade, Councillor Mike Fleming, speaking at a meeting of Shannon Town Council last week.
“There were 30 floats last year and 35 this year. I hope we can get it up by another five floats next year,” said Mr Fleming.
Independent Councillor Gerry Flynn said, “It’s a community family day. Everybody involved in the community comes out and participates.”
Labour Councillor Tony McMahon agreed, saying, “It has become established as a great community day and a great family day. It went very well. We were without a parade for so long. It is great to see it being so well supported.” Fine Gael’s Mary Brennan said, “I think it’s a day that adults can dress up like children. There is no inhibitions.” She said the parade injected “income and life” into the town centre for the day.