Cork town cancels St Patrick's Day parade due to coronavirus fears

In a statement, the volunteer group Youghal 4 All group said:

"It is with deep regret that Youghal 4 All has found themselves in the position of having to cancel the St. Patrick’s Day Parade due to our concerns about COVID-19.

"The festivities in Youghal on St. Patrick’s Day have always been well supported and it is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the rich and varied culture of the town.

Young and old alike throng the streets to watch the parade. Their health and the health of our community is our primary concern.

"We would like to apologise to the public, clubs, groups, societies and businesses affected by this decision but feel that we must act in the best interests of public health and safety."

There are currently 13 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Ireland, all of whom are currently being treated in hospital.

Meanwhile, the Stepaside St Patrick's Day Parade has also been cancelled.

The decision has been taken by organisers in the South Dublin village because of coronavirus.

Locals had raised concerns over the event going ahead.

Glencullen/Sandyford Councillor Lettie McCarthy, who is on the committee, said it is a precautionary step.

"It's purely as a precautionary measure that we decided to cancel it. Our parade does affect over 17,000 people each year. It's a lot of people to have in close proximity."

Useful information
• The HSE have developed an information pack on how to protect yourself and others from coronavirus. Read it here
• Anyone with symptoms of coronavirus who has been in close contact with a confirmed case in the last 14 days should isolate themselves from other people - this means going into a different, well-ventilated room alone, with a phone; phone their GP, or emergency department - if this is not possible, phone 112 or 999 and in a medical emergency (if you have severe symptoms) phone 112 or 999