Announcing details of its commemoration to mark the 100 anniversary of the Ballyseedy Massacre, which took place on March 7th 1923, Sinn Féin Kerry has said that party president Mary Lou McDonald, TD will deliver the main address on Sunday, March 5th at 12 noon at the famous monument.
This year marks 100 years since one of the most infamous acts of the Civil War took place, when nine IRA prisoners were removed from Ballymullen Barracks in Tralee, tied to a mine and blown up by Free State forces at Ballyseedy Cross just outside Tralee.
Event in Ballyseedy
To mark the event Sinn Féin in Kerry will hold a commemoration ceremony at the Ballyseedy monument.
“We are delighted that party president Mary Lou McDonald will be delivering the main oration at our commemorative event next month,” said a party spokesperson.
“The Ballyseedy Massacre was one of the most significant events of the Civil War and was just one of a number of horrific events that took place in this county in March and April 1923.
“It is important that we remember what happened and to mark its significance properly and in a dignified way.
A Special Centenary Booklet
“Sinn Féin held major commemorations at the Ballyseedy monument on the 50th, 60th and 75th anniversaries and we are planning a special event to mark the centenary anniversary.
“Our event will begin at 12 noon on Sunday March 5th and we invite people to gather at the monument.
“We will have a renowned historian to give an account of what occurred on that fateful night and wreaths will be laid and there will be some historical pageantry as well. A special centenary commemorative booklet will also be published to mark the occasion,” the spokesperson concluded.
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