Civic Headquarters to Light up Blue for 72nd Year of NHS

July 4, 2020

The council will be lighting Lagan Valley Island blue on the evening of Sunday 5th July to mark the 72nd birthday of the NHS.

This initiative is in support of Health Minister Robin Swann’s call for a nationwide applause at 5.00pm for the NHS and to give recognition to the sacrifices health and social care staff have made during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alderman Paul Porter, Corporate Services Committee Chairman, said: “On Sunday the National Health Service will celebrate its 72nd birthday.  Our health service is one that is envied around the world and over recent times we have seen first-hand why.  Throughout the coronavirus situation it has continued to operate with more pressures than normal and has done so with the pride and the support of Northern Ireland behind it. 

“During the Clap for Carers initiative Lisburn Castlereagh residents were very supportive, taking to their front doors each Thursday to clap, play bagpipes and other musical instruments.  I would ask that on 5th July once again but at 5.00pm this time you go to your front door and clap for our NHS to say Happy Birthday. By lighting our civic headquarters up blue on Sunday evening we are saying thank you on behalf of everyone who has been treated by the NHS over the years.”

Alderman Stephen Martin, Vice Chair of Corporate Services Committee added: “The NHS was founded to provide free care and support through its clinics and hospitals.  During coronavirus our medical and social care professionals have continued to support their patients and endured long shifts and the necessity to wear PPE at all times. I commend each and every one of them and hope we can all show our support once again on Sunday.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council would like to remind everyone that we all need to keep washing our hands regularly and practising social distancing.