NI council to host Armed Forces Day to celebrate centenery - despite Sinn Fein opposition

A report to members stated that the “prestigious Armed Forces Day Northern Ireland regional event next June will form the basis of flagship events during 2021”.

The council is working with the armed forces to secure static, sea and aerial displays for the event which will be held in Carrickfergus.

The local authority, which previously hosted the programme in 2015, welcomed vessels from the Royal Navy to Carrickfergus Harbour in July.

A further nine proposals were  presented to councillors at a meeting of the borough council on Monday evening which include the creation of a time capsule, production of a Northern Ireland commemorative coin, a “prestigious” sporting or family event and a legacy book.

The council is to write to the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to ask how the local authority can “link into national and regional initiatives”.

Last January, DUP Councillors Cheryl Johnston and Gregg McKeen proposed and seconded a motion that the council supports the planning and implementation of events marking the “100th birthday of Northern Ireland”.

TUV Councillor Matthew Armstrong tabled a question asking for an update on progress and if the chamber would consider nominating a working group.

A working group of six councillors is now to be set up.

Cllr Johnston said that sporting, education, arts and legacy events have been proposed which can be enjoyed by “everyone in the borough”.

“We are very keen to ensure we have input from all members in the form of a working group for implementation. It will be a very important milestone.”

Cllr McKeen added: “Northern Ireland 100 is really an opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland not just within Northern Ireland but also across the world. A once in a lifetime opportunity to do something special to take us to the next level, from a council point of view, to show what we can do to mark it.

“I think we should move forward and make this a great occasion, something young people throughout Mid and East Antrim will remember and celebrate for years to come.”

Coast Road Alliance representative Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna commended Cllrs Johnston and McKeen for their hard work, adding: “It is an excellent idea there should be some sort of working group.”

Commenting on Armed Forces Day, Alliance Alderman Wing Commander Noel Williams said he is looking forward to a “spectacular event”.

However, Bannside Sinn Fein Councillor Ian Friary said: “It will come as no surprise, Sinn Fein will be opposing the Armed Forces Day.

“The British Army terrorised the nationalist community in Ireland with murder, collusion, the list goes on.

“I see no benefit to this being held. As a council, we should be promoting Mid and East Antrim as a place for everyone where we live in peace and harmony.”