Group pictured at the wreath laying ceremony at the Lock Out Gate in the Faythe. Pic: Jim Campbell

FOUR MEMBERS of the family of 1916 Proclamation signatory James Connolly visited Wexford recently to attend the annual May Day Ceremony and the Centenary Commemoration of the Rising leader’s death.

The annual commemoration, which takes place at the Lock Out Gate in The Faythe every year since 2012, took on added significance this year, to correspond not only with the centenary of 1916 but to pay tribute to Wexford’s connections with James Connolly during the 1911 Lock Out.

The event was attended by four members of James Connolly’s family: John Connolly, his grandson; Maggi Connolly, his granddaughter; John Connolly, his great grandson; and Roisin Flood, great granddaughter, with her husband Anthony Flood.

Present also were: Bishop Denis Brennan; Patricia King, Gen. Secretary of Irish Congress of Trade Unions; Joe O’ Flynn, Gen. Secretary of SIPTU; Minister Paul Kehoe; President of Wexford Lions Club, Mr. Willie Roche; members of Wexford Co. Council; representatives of  O.N.E. and United Nation Veterans; Wexford Order of Malta; and Scouting Ireland.

Under the watchful eye of Master of Ceremonies Angie Laffan (Wexford District Manager) the event was very well attended and featured tributes through speech, song and drama.