At 2.00 p.m. thousands of people left SIPTU, Connolly Hall and marched on the streets of Cork to protest at the bank debt which is now burdening all citizens of Ireland. While media reports stated the attendance was 6,000, it was obvious from the numbers there that the attendance was double that.

Members from 13 affiliated unions, under the auspices of the Cork Council of Trade Unions (CCTU), showed opposition and with them came their families and friends, their children and grandchildren.

Circus clowns entertained the children as the marchers organised themselves under their respective union banners and flags.

The Union of Students in Ireland, People Before Profit and other community groups also joined the protest and assembled peacefully to join the other marchers.

While the chanting from individuals trying to highjack the march (Socialist Party and anti-Household Charge protesters) was unwelcome it did not succeed in dampening the spirit of those present.

The march was led by young people from the trade union family and they carried the ICTU banner with the enthusiasm of youth.

Their ages ranged from 6 years to 21 years old.  Street drummers added to the atmosphere as the march made its way through the centre of Cork city. On arrival at the Grand Parade the crowd was entertained by a very popular Cork group, The Calvinists, who were joined on stage by young local musician, Alan Murphy.

Ann Piggott, President of the CCTU, began the speeches, SIPTU General Secretary, Joe O’Flynn representing ICTU Executive also spoke and John O’Donnell, a young MANDATE activist delivered a heartfelt speech to those gathered on the Grand Parade.

When the speakers finished short films on the 1913 Lockout and the bank debt were shown on the big screen, the band performed another few numbers and the rally was concluded at approximately 4.00 p.m.

All in all the event was very successful, the feedback from union membership and the general public has been very positive and the message was delivered…..Lift the Burden, Jobs not Debt.