Memorial in Kildare paying tribute to Lackagh residents sold into slavery to be rededicated
The expulsion of the Catholic population from the region was ordered by Oliver Cromwell in 1655
A memorial in County Kildare which pays tribute to Irish citizens sold into slavery is set to be rededicated by the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, Bishop Nulty.
Back in 1655, English soldier and politician Oliver Cromwell ordered the expulsion of the Catholic residents in Lackagh.
These residents, five of which were priests, were made to leave their homes and take boats to Barbados. Once they landed, they were forced into slavery.
Given the harrowing and horrific nature of this historical event, it is remembered every year with a commemorative mass, and this year's iteration will take place in Lackagh Graveyard on Wednesday, June 11 at 7.30pm.
After this mass, at approximately 8.15pm, Bishop Denis Nulty will re-dedicate the remembrance plaque to the Catholic population of Lackagh that were forced into slavery in Barbados.
In addition, Barbados' Ambassador to Ireland, Cleviston Haynes, will attend the upcoming ceremony.