Speaker's St Patrick's Day Event Recognises Contribution of Sporting Volunteers

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly will hold his annual St Patrick’s Day reception at Parliament Buildings this evening.

This year’s reception is themed to recognise the contribution of those involved in promoting and supporting sporting activity across Northern Ireland. 

Speaking about the event, The Speaker, William Hay MLA said: “Each year I theme my annual St Patrick’s Day’s event to recognise the work done in communities on a whole range of issues. 

“In the year of the Olympics it seemed very fitting that we take the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and enthusiasm of volunteers and those involved in sporting organisations across Northern Ireland. While we take pride in, and cheer on, our high profile successes, this event is to say thank you and well done to all of those who are out there every week, come rain or shine, nurturing young talent and ensuring sport, with its values of team spirit and fair play, continues at a level which is much closer to us all.”

This year’s programme will begin at 6.30pm in the Great Hall. Musical entertainment will be provided by Andrew Hegan on the bagpipes and the Northern Ireland Youth Choir Ensemble.