Commemorative mural unveiled in Ardoyne

Ardoyne mural unveiling

A mural dedicated to 35 republican activists from Ardoyne, North Belfast, was unveiled in the area at a ceremony on Friday night, 26 September.

The new mural depicts the Tírghrá emblem from last year's commemoration and on its outer border is painted a portrait of each of the republicans remembered on the mural.

Up to 500 people attended the unveiling, which was carried out by Sinn Féin councillors Margaret McClenaghan and Martin Meehan, while local priest Fr Gary Donegan blessed it.

Kathy Staunton, selected as candidate for North Belfast in any forthcoming Assembly election, delivered the main oration.

"The people on this mural were IRA Volunteers, members of Na Fianna Éireann and of Sinn Féin," she said. "Their commitment was to a free and united Ireland. They were freedom fighters.

"I am proud to be here tonight. Those who died did so looking to the future. We stand here rededicated, strong and united. In our thoughts are those republicans who fought and died for us."