Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day Parade is postponed. Organizers cite safety concerns and funding issues.
Thousands of folks were expected to attend. Organizers posted about the parade on social media and regret any letdown this causes. They want a safe, fun parade for everyone, and safety is a major priority for the organizers.
They won’t risk anyone’s health or well-being. They worked hard with volunteers and partners, but still couldn’t afford enough safety measures. The event lacked necessary funds for security, and Lyle Bignon spoke about the parade’s cancellation.
He’s with the NTIA, representing Birmingham, and he finds this postponement very upsetting news. He said audience safety comes first, of course. This impacts community events and music venues, and he says this problem faces events all over the UK.
He knows the festival requires much volunteer work and demands serious operational spending. This is hard on those who volunteered, as they gave their time to plan the parade. The Irish community must help to keep it going.
The parade helps unify the city’s community. Rising production costs create barriers, too. Reduced support from local authorities hurts culture. Irish Quarter businesses depend on the parade, and they need its success to operate well.
The parade weekend really helps them out, and they can meet operating costs better then. Many booked extra staff and entertainment. Bignon encourages visits to Digbeth anyway. Support food, drink and entertainment venues; The Irish Quarter will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.