Council fly the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day

September 3, 2018

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council hosted a Flag Raising Ceremony at Lagan Valley Island to commemorate Merchant Navy Day on 3rd September.

The Mayor, Councillor Uel Mackin, was joined by Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP, along with Elected Members and Officers of the Council in raising the Red Ensign, the United Kingdom’s Merchant Navy’s Official Flag.

Since 2000, Merchant Navy Day has been celebrated on 3rd September to recognise the invaluable contribution of the Merchant Navy during both World Wars.

Merchant Navy Day also pays homage to the vital modern role of these seafarers transporting supplies from across the world to our home shores.  Approximately 95% of the United Kingdom imports, including fuel and half the food consumed arrives in the United Kingdom courtesy of the efforts of the Merchant Navy.

During the Ceremony the Mayor paid tribute to the brave men and women of the Merchant Navy and Sir Jeffrey read the Official Message, on behalf of His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex.

The Flag raising was followed by a 1 minute silence.

“I am proud that Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is one of 600 councils across the United Kingdom helping to raise awareness of our ongoing dependence on, and gratitude to the Merchant Navy seafarers.  It is a privilege to host this ceremony each year and to say thank you for your continued service,” said Councillor Mackin.