Queen to engage with Rebels in heart of city
Another chapter in Cork’s history will be written today with the visit of Queen Elizabeth II — 108 years after the last tour of the city by a British monarch, her great-grandfather, King Edward VII, in 1903.
The Queen might be scheduled to spend less than two hours on Leeside but it promises to be a memorable couple of hours.
The main focus of her trip will be a visit to the city’s famous English Market, where Lord Mayor of Cork Michael O’Connell will escort her on a tour of the stalls, showcasing some of the best of Irish-produced foods.
The Queen will also unveil a plaque in the complex to commemorate the occasion.
She will then travel the short distance to the Tyndall National Institute near the Mardyke before carrying on to Cork Airport for her return flight to London.
Despite traffic restrictions for security reasons, the Queen’s visit to Cork is likely to attract a large crowd.
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney urged the city to rise to the occasion. “I am confident that Cork people will really welcome her and ensure that her trip finishes off on a positive note. I hope Cork people will hang out their brightest colours. It’s an opportunity for our city to send out really positive images.”
However, as the state visit entered its final day, a sour note sounded as four of the five Ulster county boards who did not attend Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Croke Park on Wednesday claimed they were not invited.
County board officials from Tyrone, Fermanagh, Derry and Antrim told the Irish Examiner they were not asked to go to GAA headquarters for the event.
While the claims sparked a diplomatic row within the GAA, the royal roadshow continued undisturbed. The Queen and Prince Philip enjoyed a relaxing day yesterday, taking a trip to the National Stud in Kildare before attending a concert and fashion show among 2,000 guests at the National Convention Centre.
The Queen’s final day in Ireland will begin with a visit to the Rock of Cashel, this morning, after which she will undertake a private visit to the famous Coolmore Stud at Ballydoyle, Co Tipperary, run by renowned trainer Aidan O’Brien.
