MOVILLE, Ireland (CNB) - A monument honouring the thousands of Irish who emigrated to New Brunswick was unveiled today in Moville, Ireland. Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty, who represented the province at the event, unveiled the monument.
The monument is a large, oak-carved fid, a traditional tool used by Irish fishermen and sail makers. It symbolizes Moville's longstanding maritime heritage, as well as the beacons that were once lit on the hills of the Inishowen peninsula to mark the passage of emigration ships headed for New Brunswick and other North American destinations.
"This beautiful monument represents the persisting connection between Ireland and New Brunswickers, particularly those of us with Irish heritage," said Doherty. "This is a great way to honour our common ancestors."
From 1865 onward, Moville was a principal emigration point for Irish heading to New Brunswick and the rest of Canada as well as to the United States.
The unveiling of the fid was part of a four-day mission led by Doherty. The delegation has met with officials in Dublin and Donegal to seek out opportunities to strengthen ties between New Brunswick and Ireland. The delegation will also travel to Derry in Northern Ireland.
Representatives of Saint Thomas University, the New Brunswick Arts Board and the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick are part of the delegation.
02-09-09