Presentation of Shamrock in Hillsborough
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Corporate Services Committee have today (Wednesday 14th January) recommended council support to bring the Royal Irish Regiment’s famed St Patrick’s Day ceremony out in to the community in Northern Ireland for the first time in history.
The 2nd Battalion of the Royal Irish Regiment (2R IRISH) host a Presentation of Shamrock event annually at Thiepval Barracks in Lisburn. The event is a highlight in the Army calendar, with soldiers and officers honoured with the presentation of shamrocks, with cadets, veterans and soldiers’ families often in attendance.
This year, 2R IRISH have ambitious plans to bring this prestigious occasion to Royal Hillsborough, which would mark the first time it has ever taken place in a community setting within Northern Ireland.
Members at tonight’s Corporate Services Committee agreed to recommend making £10,000 available to support the celebrations. Plans include a parade of the Royal Irish Band, soldiers, cadets and veterans through Royal Hillsborough, followed by the official presentation of shamrocks in front of family and invited guests at the Court House and a reception within the grounds of Hillsborough Castle.
Councillor Brian Higginson, Corporate Services Committee Chair, said: “I’m delighted that the Committee has recommended providing council support to bring the 2R IRISH Presentation of the Shamrock to Royal Hillsborough in 2026.
“We have a strong relationship with the Army and have supported them to host successful community events, such as the Friendship Cup football match between the UK Armed Forces and the Irish Defence Force, held at Lisburn’s Bluebell Stadium in 2024.
“This event represents a wonderful opportunity to strengthen our relationship with the Armed Forces, promote positive community relations, and help bring a historic spectacle to the heart of Royal Hillsborough.”
“The Committee’s decision tonight recognises the council’s commitments through the Armed Forces Covenant. Coming just two days after Planning Committee approval of Royal Hillsborough’s public realm scheme plans, it could pave the way for a truly memorable year for the village.”
Ratification of the decision will be sought at the next Full Council Meeting on 27th January.
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