Rain, hail or snow, Laois town promises St Patrick's Day to remember

Mountrath promises a parade to remember regardless of the weather promises the town's St Patrkick's Day parade committee who are putting the final touches on this year's Golden Carnaval.

The organisers say they have pulled out all the stops to ensure the 50th anniversary parade is the best yet which will see the Brasilian Ambassador come to town to celebrate with them.

"We have worked around the clock on the parade but every year it comes down to one thing- those who take part. So we want to see everyone out in their green, white and gold participating whatever way they can," Julie Bennett PRO said. 

The parade will kick off with live music and entertainment in the Square from the earlier time of 11.15 am.

Scoil Fionntáin Naofa will lead the parade in their eye-catching red hats and capes, with the whole national school taking part in the parade in some capacity or other.

Jimmy Conroy, the last living committee member for the first parade, is Grand Marshall and will be paraded through the town in an open car driven by David Clegg.

“We are thrilled to have Jimmy Conroy acting as Grand Marshall, what could be a better way to celebrate our 50th anniversary then by honouring one of the people who helped establish it.’ We want to see everyone out lining the streets ready to cheer Jimmy on.' Cllr James Kelly added.
 
The parade organisers anticipate a big parade this year, with many participants already confirmed to take part. Shanahoe Colt GAA, Tiny Tots, Camross GAA, Mountrath Bikers Shed and Mountrath Golf Club are among those confirmed to participate.

Cllr James Kelly is chairperson of the organising committee.

"We are delighted that so many have confirmed already, but we want to see everyone come out in their droves. We are celebrating our 50th so it's a big one. We are asking anyone with a float or truck to be in the GAA field by 11.30am so we can ensure that the parade starts on time." Cllr Kelly added. '
 
The Brazilian Ambassador, Mr Marcel Biato, is to attend this year’s St Patrick Parade in Mountrath much to the delight of local residents but none moreso then LABRAS the Laois Brazillian Support Association.

"LABRAS have been working really hard in preparation for the parade and they are so excited that the Ambassador is coming. 
When we started out planning we just wanted to honour the tradition Jimmy Conroy, Bob Stanley, Christy Loughnane and Tom Doheny started all those years ago by putting on the best parade we can.

"Now, we are motivated more then ever to show the Ambassador a day he will never forget," said Julie Bennett.

St Patrick's Day Mardi Gras carnival promised in Laois town

Apart from the parade there promises to be lots more entertainment. 

"We have free bouncing castles and free face painting for all the children in the Square. We have a wide and varied market, street food, live music from Deliverance and Brian & Figs.' The Lynam School of Dancing will be performing first; and Ciara & Jean from the Lord of the Dance will be delighting us all with a performance after the parade," said the PRO. 

Cllr Kelly thanked all the sponsors, helpers and volunteers as well as Laois County Council. He also thanked his fellow members of the organising committee.