Gaelic Flag-Raising at Northwood on the Harbour

The Gaelic flag rose to a prominent position on the balcony of Northwood on the Harbour on Monday, May 27. Commuters travelling to downtown Halifax will see our flag flanked by the Nova Scotia flag, Canada flag and Union Jack as they exit the Macdonald bridge and continue on North Street.

The ceremony and celebration marked the end of fifteen weeks of Gaelic language and culture sessions with reBoom, the community centre at Northwood. Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-bhaile applied to Comhairle na Gàidhlig for a seniors’ grant which they had received through New Horizons, a federal program. The purpose of the program is to promote volunteerism among seniors and other generations, to engage seniors in the community through the mentoring of others, and to support he social participation and inclusion of seniors.

As the large crowd gathered, Leanne Aucoin entertained with some lively strathespeys , jigs and reels. The dignitaries were piped to the podium by Barry Shears. Jennifer Wadden, Senior Advisor to the Minister of National Defence, Peter MacKay, brought remarks on his behalf. Lewis MacKinnon, Executive Director, Office of Gaelic Affairs, spoke on behalf of Minister Maurice Smith and HRM Councillor Jennifer Watts, brought greetings from HRM. Shay MacMullin, facilitator of the program at reBoom, spoke to the strengths and success of the program. Natasha Handspkier, Recreation Manager at reBoom was the MC.

Following the raising of the flag, the audience enjoyed a cake decorated with the Gaelic flag, traditional Cape Breton oatcakes, Bouladerie biscuits and tea and coffee. Many joined in for a few milling songs to complete the day.

Creation Date: 
Sunday, 26 May, 2013