Rescue dog to lead parade on St Patrick’s Day
By Maurice Garvey
A DOG rescued by backpackers in Colombia, will lead the Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day parade 2020.
“The public have spoken and voted for Uimhir to lead the parade with owner, former FM 104 host and Clondalkin local Keith Ward,” said Cllr Francis Timmons, festival organiser.
Uimhir the dog
Last autumn, Keith Ward and Fiona Barry , rescued Golden Retriever sisters Gracie and Uimhir from an inhumane pet shop in Bogota.
Sadly, Gracie died from illness but medication helped Uimhir fight Parvo, a puppy killer disease.
Keith and Fiona set up a GoFundMe to cover the cost of Uimhir’s medical bills and to bring her back to Ireland, raising their goal figure of €12,500.
Following campaign work by the backpackers, they were informed by authorities in Colombia that police and vets from the Department of Agriculture raided seven pet stores they campaigned against.
Cllr Timmons, says Uimhir follows in the footsteps of previous Grand Marshalls Mary Kennedy, Mary Dardis, Colm Gavin, Gemma and Philip Carr.
“This year’s parade has already 30 entries. I am delighted we will have two top bands, Clondalkin Youth Band and Clondalkin Pipe Band.
“We will also have the super up-and-coming Biscuits on Fire play live before the parade, along with DJ Howe, providing commentary on the day. It’s shaping up to be a fun-filled family day with something for everyone.”
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