Nashville, Tennessee will have a strong Laois presence at the St Patrick’s day parade with musicians and dancers representing Comhaltas, Portlaoise branch already in the state capital.

The Portlaoise branch, which partners with the Buggy school of Irish Dancing at Fleadhanna Cheoil and other events, is visiting Tennessee in association the Laois and Williamson County Sister Cities committee.

The delegation departed from Dublin on Sunday March 8 and return on Monday 16.

"Laois can be proud of the musicians and dancers who will be visiting the USA," said Dr Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardsturathoir CCÉ. 

Dr Ó Murchú expressed his pride that Comhaltas groups from Ireland will also perform in Brussels, Kenya, Liberia and South Africa to celebrate the strength of the diaspora.

Jason Conroy, Chair Portlaoise CCÉ, thanked the National Executive for their support and acknowledged the assistance of many local councillors in facilitating the trip.

"This will help cement the cultural connection and make way for further exchanges," he said.

A very busy itinerary is in progress exploring educational, musical, historical and other aspects of life in the area of Franklin and Nashville.

According to group leaders PJ Phelan and Shirley Cahill, it is proving to be a memorable experience for the travelling party, especially for those who are visiting North America for the first time.

Mr Phelan expressed appreciation for the hospitality shown by the Franklin Sister Cities committee and particularly the host families. 

"The fact that we are staying with a number of families allows us to gain a more thorough understanding of their way of life and bond with them," he told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"Their goodwill towards Ireland and enthusiasm for our music and dance is overwhelming," he said.

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The group was greeted by local representatives including Mayors of Williamson County and Franklin City, and received a warm reception from locals attending the parade in the state capital Nashville, on Saturday 14.

Well done to Portlaoise Comhaltas and the Buggy school of Irish Dancing!