Inaugural Michael O' Hanrahan weekend will have something for all the family - O' Connell

One of the organisers of the inaugural Michael O' Hanrahan weekend has  said that the event will offer something for every member of the family.  Oisin O' Connell said that the weekend will include a memorial lecture which will bring diverse speakers including Professor Anthony Coughlan and writer Geraldine O' Connell Cusack to New Ross.

"The Michael O' Hanrahan Memorial Lecture will bring an eclectic mix of speakers to a non political audience," Mr O' Connell said.  "As well as an historical lecture on the life and times of 1916 rebel leader Michael O' Hanrahan, there will also be contributions from Professor Anthony Coughlan, secretary of the National Platform for EU Research and Information Centre, and Irish American writer Geraldine O' Connell Cusack."

"There will be many other events held for those not interested in lectures and debates.  A family fun day complete with free music and face painting will be held in Pearse Park on the Saturday from noon until two, followed by a wreath laying ceremony at O' Hanrahan Bridge.  We'll also be holding a fun table quiz on the Friday night and a hike up Carrigbyrne hill on the Sunday morning, giving everyone something to take from this event."

"As we move towards the centenary of the 1916 rising, it's important that we reflect and acknowledge what an incredibly important turning point this event was in Irish history.  It's important that everyone has a chance to remember what happened and from where our modern state came.  No one group has a monopoly on the memory of great patriots like Michael O' Hanrahan and that's why the organisers of this event would invite everyone, young and old, regardless of political beliefs, to take part in the first annual Michael O' Hanrahan Weekend."

Full details of the Michael O' Hanrahan Weekend can be found online at Ohanharan.org.