Christmas Remembrance Tree officially launched in Carlow

Carlow’s Remembrance Tree was switched on last night on Barrack Street, marking the fifteenth year of the local tradition.

The tree provides a space to honour loved ones and supports charities including Éist, St Vincent de Paul, Delta Centre and Bethany House.

Over 110 volunteers, among them a record number of local students, will keep the tree running daily until Christmas Eve.

Bishop Denis Nulty says Christmas can be a tough time especially when we’ve lost loved ones….

“A remembrance tree remembers those who have died, those who have lost loved ones in the past 12 months in a special way.”

“Last evening I was in Edenderry. I had a very similar thing as well, and Edenderry is an area that has had huge loss in recent days, so remembering people we lose is critically important and I think people come in great numbers. Christmas is a time time when there always is an empty seat around the table.”

Mayor of Carlow Paul Doogue says when the tree goes up it signifies the start of Christmas in Carlow.

“It really means a lot to the people of Carlow, and rightly so and it’s in a perfect location, I feel, here as well. You’re seeing on the main road, you’re going into the main shopping centre, people are so, so generous because every penny that’s raised is staying in Carlow as well, which is lovely.

“All different groups are all worthy of all this as well, with Aist and the Delta, Bethany House, you know. So they’re all great, great groups.”