On Merchant Navy Day (3rd September) the Red Ensign flag was raised at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn as Mayor, Councillor Kurtis Dickson hosted a ceremony to honour the hardworking members of the Merchant Navy.

His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant for County Antrim, Mr James Perry MBE DL who raised the official flag at the council’s headquarters.  Elected representatives and members of seafaring organisations joined them to honour past, present and future seafarers.

Speaking about the importance of the Merchant Navy, Mayor Dickson said: “As a city we mark this day to remember the many brave men and women who kept our nation afloat during both World Wars.  It truly is a privilege to remember the sacrifices, salute the selfless courage and support the future of the often unsung personnel of our Merchant Navy as they travel across volatile waters.

“The Merchant Navy is crucial to our economy and security.  Without these individuals navigating the waters of the world to deliver food and goods to our shores and take our products to other countries our lives would be different.  It really is no understatement to say that without the thousands of brave men and women of the Merchant Navy, our country would quite simply grind to a halt.”

During both world wars, merchant and fishing fleets were a lifeline for our country, which led to them becoming a target of attacks.  Many vessels were lost to German U-boats and almost 15,000 merchant seafarers were killed during the First World War.  This sacrifice continued when 40,000 merchant seafarers lost their lives during Second World War attacks.  These seafarers ranged from 14 years old to 78 years old. 
 
Lisburn and Castlereagh as a community says ‘thank you’ to all those who were or are part of the Merchant Navy.