A LARGE number of people from the Border counties of Cavan and Fermanagh are expected to gather again in Ballyconnell, Co Cavan, tomorrow afternoon for another rally in support of local businessman Seán Quinn and his family.
The rally, which is scheduled to begin at 4pm, is being organised by Concerned Irish Citizens, one of several local lobby groups involved in organising a rally last July.
A second rally scheduled for September 16th last was cancelled as a mark of respect for Fermanagh GAA footballer Brian Óg Maguire, who died in an industrial accident at the former Quinn Group premises.
Patricia Gilheany of Concerned Irish Citizens said there would be stronger representation from the Quinn family at tomorrow’s rally. Seán Quinn and his eldest daughter Colette spoke at the previous rally.
The last rally was attended by several prominent figures from the GAA including Tyrone football manager Mickey Harte; former Armagh manager Joe Kernan; and former Meath manager Seán Boylan.
Ms Gilheany said that several of the speakers from the previous rally would be attending but would not be making speeches.
“I don’t know who will be making speeches but there will be several high-profile guests in attendance on Sunday. People can expect a few surprises,” she said.
According to organisers the identity of the speakers is being kept secret to protect them from unwanted attention before the event.
Organisers say they are expecting larger crowds than in July and they expect more people from beyond the region to attend tomorrow’s event.
“This rally is not just about Quinn or the Border region; this is about broader issues that are affecting people in this country. It is for all the Irish citizens who have become victimised by banks.
“There are very serious issues that need to be addressed regarding Anglo and we are looking for answers,” said Ms Gilheany.
The rally is taking place while Seán Quinn jnr – the son of Seán Quinn, who founded the Quinn Group – remains in prison in Dublin after being found to be in contempt of court.
He received a prison sentence in July along with his cousin Peter Darragh Quinn, who lives in Co Fermanagh and who cannot be extradited to the Republic.