Derry,Ireland: An Indian community group who were due to take part in this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Derry have pulled out as a mark of respect following the murder of Irish woman Danielle McLaughlin in India.
The group were due to bring aspects of the ‘Holi’ festival to the parade which is the same festival Danielle had been celebrating.
It was to be the first time the group would participated in the parade and had been preparing for it for quite some time.
St Patrick’s Day parade in Derry is a big part of celebrations as thousands gather to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.
The theme of this year’s celebrations was Forever Young – a celebration of youthfulness of mind and spirit, where over 500 people from community based carnival programmes performed for thousands of spectators.
Mukesh Chugh spokesperson for the Indian community group said: “As a mark of respect to the lady from Buncrana who was murdered in India while celebrating Holi, we have decided not to be part of this celebration tomorrow at st Patrick Parade.
“She lived so close to Derry, I know many will be disappointed but this is a right decision, sadly our group will not be part of Holi celebration tomorrow during this difficult time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with family, we as Indian will be eager to help the family what ever way we can.”
(source: Highland Radio)