Askeaton 1797
Plans are at an advanced stage for Askeaton/Ballysteen’s comm-emoration day, pencilled-in for Sunday October 9th.
An apolitical group met six months ago with the purpose of staging a suitable commemoration event in the Autumn. The group, chaired by Fr. Sean O’Longaigh PP, had an aim of honouring those from the parish who lost their lives in the establishment of an Irish Republic.
Now, the committee can confirm that it has commissioned a fitting Memorial Stone to salute the community’s sometimes forgotten freedom heroes. This will stand an impressive seven feet in height and four feet in width – it will be unveiled at Mac’s Quay, adjacent to the River Deel across from Askeaton Community Hall.
The backdrop to the scul-pture will be the historic Desmond Castle to the south and the Franciscan Abbey to the north.
“We are beginning with the Rebellion of 1798 through to the War of Independence in our commemoration,” said Paul Anglim, Secretary of Coiste na Saoirse, the organising group.
United Irishman Paddy O’Neill was executed by the Crown Forces in 1798 and Rockites’ Terence Moran was killed by the Crown Forces during a shoot-out in 1821. Dan Neville lost his life for freedom during the War of Independence in 1920. The three were all from Askeaton/Ballysteen.
A number of locals were interned at Ballykinlar, County Down for their involvement in the War of Independence, all of which will be revealed in a limited edition souvenir book that will be launched the weekend before the commemoration event.
Editor Paul Anglim has also unearthed a widely unknown parish connection with the Easter Rising of 1916, a nugget of inform-ation that is currently under wraps.
On Commemoration Day, a parade – led by an army colour party, followed by a marching band – will travel through Limerick’s oldest town to the memorial site.
After the formalities, an open invitation has been extended for everyone to enjoy complimentary refreshments in Askeaton Community Hall.
There will be musical entertainment on the day.
And, it’s hoped that local publicans will provide musicians in keeping with the historic occasion later in the evening.
A number of other linked events will also take place, to be announced closer to the date.
With publication deadline now fast looming, the committee is making a final appeal for financial patrons (who will be listed in the book) – those interested in contributing can contact any member of the local committee, comprised of Fr. Seán O’Longaigh, Paul Anglim, Cllr Kevin Sheahan, Dave Duggan, Mal Keaveney, Ger Blackwell, JJ Sweeney and Noel Hennessy.