North Longford commemoration event attracts high profile visitors

The defeat of a combined army of Irish and French troops at The Battle of Ballinamuck by the British forces under the guidance of Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Charles Cornwallis, effectively ended the 1798 rebellion.

The battle and its outcome set in train a sequence of events that would shape not only Ireland, but the future of Europe.

Among the visitors to Ballinamuck to commemorate the 225 anniversary of the historic moment was H.E. Vincent Guérend, the French Ambassador to Ireland.

Monsieur Guérend has a familiarity with military matters. He spent one year in the French Army as second lieutenant during his military service.

Tweeting about the visit he said in advance of the day: “On my way to Ballinamuck, Longford to commemorate the last battle of the Franco-Irish troops led by General Humbert. 1798 -2023: 225th anniversary of The Year Of The French.”

The French Ambassador was impressed with the programme the organisers put together: “Congratulations to the people of Ballinamuck for this fantastic commemoration of the battle of 8th Sept. 1798 which saw once again France and Ireland fight side by side. Thanks for your warm welcome! Vive l'amitié franco-irlandaise!”

Another social media post commented: “Fier et honoré d'assister à la commémoration du 225e anniversaire de la bataille de Ballinamuck qui a opposé une armée franco-irlandaise aux troupes britanniques. "Vive la France" proclame le monument aux morts.”

That translates as: “Proud and honoured to attend the commemoration of the 225th anniversary of the Battle of Ballinamuck which pitted a Franco-Irish army against British troops. “Long live France” proclaims the war memorial.”

After the Ballinamuck visit Monsieur Guérend made his way to the Maria Edgeworth Centre in Edgeworthstown. On his social media feed he said: “Thanks to the Maria Edgeworth Centre for their warm welcome. Congratulations for the promotion of the extraordinary and rich legacy of Maria Edgeworth and this family who had so many links with France! A must see for all tourists interested in French history.”

Speaking at the official opening of the Commemoration Weekend, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys described it as a “great honour” to mark the 225th anniversary of a battle that decided the fate of Ireland in the short term, but inspired a greater destiny in the years ahead.

Minister Humphreys said: “Over the course of this weekend, this community – in the heart of Rural Ireland - will play host to a unique set of events and activities to commemorate one of the defining moments in our history. It’s a great honour to be joined here by the French Ambassador, Mr Vincent Guérand, who has been a true friend to Ireland for many years.”

The Minister commended the voluntary work of the local community: “I want to pay tribute to the organisers of these commemorations for your fantastic work and efforts. For a small community like Ballinamuck, you sum up all that is good and vibrant about rural life.”

Minister Humphreys concluded: “This week, too, you will showcase the very best of both Irish and French culture and heritage – all under the encompassing theme of the Battle of Ballinamuck. These commemorations are a reminder for us all of the strength of the bond that exists between our two nations.”

During her visit to the county the Minister opened the Aughnacliffe Heritage Trail and also turned on the Monaduff to Ballinamuck Trail, which will be part of the North Longford Rebel Trail.