Ministers attend Somme memorial events
Date published:
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Communities Minister Gordon Lyons have attended a number of commemorative services in France to mark the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.
The Ministers said the ceremonies, at Thiepval Memorial Tower and the Ulster Tower, provided an important opportunity to remember the bravery and sacrifice of all who lost their lives.
The Ministers also attended a service at Ginchy Cross in the nearby village of Guillemont, the site of great loss for the 16th Irish Division.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said:
“As we mark 110 years since the Battle of the Somme, we remember with deep respect those who served and those who never came home.
“Their stories of courage and sacrifice are etched into our history and collective memory.
“It was a privilege to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Northern Ireland in honour of all those who gave their lives for our freedom.
“Today’s commemorations are not only about the past, they are also about our shared future, and our responsibility to carry forward the values for which so many gave their lives.
“Standing here in France, we are reminded of the importance of working together to build a more peaceful world.”
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:
“Visiting these sites and being present as wreaths are laid is a solemn and humbling experience. We may be 110 years on from the events of the Somme, but the significance and bravery of the sacrifice made by so many endures to this day.
“It is important that we continue to tell the story of what happened, in the hope that such a tragedy will be avoided in future. That is why I am pleased my Department has supported, through the Somme Association, the Somme Museum in North Down for over a decade.
“I commend the Somme Association on its efforts to ensure that the sacrifices of all those who served in the Great War, and those of their families, will continue to be honoured and remembered.”
Notes to editors:
- Caption – Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, Carol Walker MBE, Somme Association, and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly at the Ulster Tower in France.
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