Publican Louis to lead Four Districts Parade

Preparations for the St Patrick’s Day parades are in full swing as Louis Fitzgerald has been announced as this year’s Grand Marshall for the Four District’s Parade.

The well-known publican and owner of the Louis Fitzgerald Group, which owns over 19 pubs including the Old Mill in Tallaght, the Laurels in Clondalkin and the Poitin Stil in Rathcoole, restaurants and hotels across Dublin, has been selected to be this year’s Grand Marshal for the popular parade, which is comprised of groups from the communities of Rathcoole, Saggart, Brittas and Newcastle.

“Preparations are going super, we have had great interest and everyone that is on board are happy to be back this year,” one of the event organisers of the Four Districts Parade, Sharon Redmond, told The Echo.

“Most of our groups have been in contact and are going ahead. We have three big clubs in our area – St Mary’s, Commercial’s Hurling and Camogie Club and Rathcoole Football Club, and they are all on board and getting their floats ready to go.

“Local businesses are also participating, and we will have a couple of surprises as well as some of our usual spectacles – it is all going really well so far.”

According to Sharon, the feeling in the area from residents is one of “excitement” as they gear up for the big day on March 17.

Over in Clondalkin, preparations are also underway for the parade this year, as it was recently announced that community activist Tommy Keogh has been chosen as the Grand Marshal for this year’s Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day parade. Tommy is well known for his tireless work in the community, Mr Keogh is a former South Dublin County volunteer of the year in 2018.

According to local councillor Francis Timmons, there has been great interest from local individuals and community groups in the area and the parade is still open to anyone looking to volunteer or take part this year. Those looking to volunteer can apply at www.clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie

Also going ahead this year is the Lucan parade, which will be celebrating it’s 30th anniversary and is sure to put on a fantastic display.