No fears over the future of the Dragon of Shandon Parade, say organisers

THE future of the Dragon of Shandon parade is safe, according to the board of directors.

Recent reports had indicated that the popular parade was under threat due to a lack of funding and space to store the eye-catching creations used to bring it to life each year.

However, a spokesperson for the parade confirmed that it will 'continue to be a prominent calendar highlight for Cork' due to the support of funders, including Cork City Council.

"We would like to acknowledge this support and thank those in Cork City Council's Arts Office and other departments who aid in bringing the Dragon of Shandon and Cork Community Artlink's further programme to fruition each year," the spokesperson said.

A representative of Cork Community Art Link (CCAL) had previously told the Evening Echo that a shortage of space was causing issues for preparing and storing the parade floats, including the famous dragon that winds its way through the city streets each Hallowe'en.

A number of the floats are currently on display in Blackpool Shopping Centre and Cork Airport ahead of this year's parade.

However, a spokesperson for CCAL said that the community outreach work that brings the parade to life each year is not under threat and will continue.

"The evening parade is the result of an extensive outreach and participatory programme that spans several months of workshops with youth groups, the community and voluntary sector, schools and voluntary participants," they said.

"A commitment to high standards of practice both in artistic and participatory engagement are at the core of each annual parade with groups collaborating on an annual basis with artists to create original work that is reflective of their experiences.

"Cork Community Artlink would like to, once again, thank all key stakeholders including Cork City Council and the people of Cork. We look forward to welcoming you all on the night for more spooky fun on Halloween through the streets of Cork."