The Borough is flying the flag for the Commonwealth

At 10am this morning, Her Majesty’s Vice Lord-Lieutenant for County Antrim, Mrs Miranda Gordon DL and the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim  Montgomery joined thousands of other people across the world in raising the Commonwealth Flag to mark Commonwealth Day 2021.
 
Now in its seventh year, the Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth initiative allows participants from all walks of life to express their commitment to the Commonwealth and show their appreciation for the values it upholds.
 
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the annual service at Westminster Abbey to mark Commonwealth Day did not take place, however, Her Majesty The Queen delivered her message in ‘A Celebration for Commonwealth Day’ which was broadcast on Sunday 7 March on BBC One. Her message echoed the theme for this year’s Commonwealth Day ‘Delivering a Common Future’, and encouraged us as citizens to gain and draw benefit from the vast interconnected networks of mutual support and collaboration to help achieve goals such as fighting climate change and boosting trade.
 
The Mayor said;

“This year is vitally important for the Commonwealth as member countries face many global crises including a devastating pandemic and its economic wake, and the continuing threat of climate change. During these times of challenge we must uphold more than ever our shared values, commitment to cooperation and sense of connection. It is by working together we can overcome these and deliver a brighter and more sustainable future for everyone.”

 
A Commonwealth Flag was raised at Antrim Civic Centre and Mossley Mill to mark Commonwealth Day 2021.