The man behind the concept of International Cork Day has said that he hopes the day will be one of the city and county’s proudest celebrations in recent memory. Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Emmet O’Halloran (FG) who first suggested the concept last August said that he was delighted that the event was taking place as part of “The Gathering” celebrations. Speaking after Councillors were briefed on Cork Day last night O’Halloran said that “the programme of events sounds very promising and will incorporate all that is great about our region. We have seen in recent years how Cork has developed its brand around the world with the visit of Queen Elizabeth, the success of our cultural icons and investment in our overall tourist product. Last Christmas saw the launch of the Cork Monopoly Board Game so who knows maybe we could even have a Beamish Book of Cork Records to coincide with the celebration” Whilst acknowledging that Cork Day is a fun and novel event Cllr. O’Halloran also said that there is a serious economic argument to the idea. “I would hope that many of the big brand names and businesses in Cork come on board and support the day. For example I would love to see a situation whereby large retail brands run “Buy Cork” promotions in their stores. I have spoken with some retailers and it would appear that there may be an appetite to run such an initiative. I also made initial contact with members of the Murphy’s marketing team with a view to possible running a Murphy’s Little Big Nights out event as part of the celebrations. ” International Cork Day will be celebrated on October 16th.
3rd February, 2013