On a river of remembrance for all who have died in the Lee

Casting a ghostly glow along the north channel of the River Lee, a fleet of small boats set sail at precisely 7.30pm last night, slid slowly along the riverbank walls alongside the Mercy Hospital and set off on a brief yet poignant journey towards Custom House Quay.

Around 14 boats gathered on the western approach to the city as they prepared to begin a maritime journey of remembrance to all who have died in the River Lee. Those on board were mostly silent, reflecting on those who perished in the depths of Cork’s famous river.

Many of the boats carried soft white lights or candle-lit lanterns reflected in the water beneath them. Most were rowing boats, powered by nothing more than love, compassion and human endurance.