Paddy’s Day push: Shops in Longford town urged to stay open on day of parade

Cllr Peggy Nolan has appealed to the businesses of Longford Town centre to remain open on St Patrick's Day in order to fully avail of the high footfall coming into the town for the parade.  

The councillor made the plea during a council discussion following a motion submitted by Cllr Kevin Hussey in which he requested that a clear plan of action be implemented for the parade in order to avoid the near calamity that occurred last year when the Chamber of Commerce withdrew just five weeks prior, leaving plans in disarray and the event itself, in great doubt. 

During this discussion, Councillor Nolan highlighted a separate issue with regard to last year’s event, namely the number of businesses that were closed on the day. 

Cllr Nolan said she “could not understand” why businesses would remain shut when they should have been availing of the influx of people coming into the town.  

Read: ‘Clear plan’ needed to ensure Longford St Patrick’s Day parade proceeds

She told the chamber, “The parade is something that everybody in the entire community looks forward to. We here in the chamber helped support and fund last year’s event and yet so many businesses that could have gained so much were closed.” 

“I can’t understand the logic behind it. For goodness sake, open the business and provide whatever for people coming in. It’s an all day event!”

“The businesses have to realise we are doing this for them; to bring business to your business, so open your business on the day and be more proactive!”

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