Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 8, 2024 9:22 am GMT
Pro-Palestine Activists Plan Protest at Portrush Airshow
Pro-Palestine activists are set to rally at the Portrush Airshow this weekend in response to concerns over the event’s sponsorship. The demonstration, organized by the East Derry Branch of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC), is focused on the event’s association with the French aerospace firm Thales, which is accused of having links to an Israeli arms manufacturer allegedly involved in the production of drones used against Palestinian civilians.
The rally is scheduled to take place at Kerr Street Green at 12:30 PM on Saturday, coinciding with the airshow activities. Activist Riley McCahon from Causeway Pride expressed support for the protest, emphasizing the contrast between the festive atmosphere of the airshow and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “It’s upsetting to think that in Portrush on Saturday people will be looking up at the sky at these amazing planes while in Gaza people are looking up at the sky wondering if they are going to be killed by the next air raid,” he said.
Thales, which produces components used in drone technology, has publicly stated that it does not supply the Israeli military and only collaborates with the UK Ministry of Defence. The company has yet to officially respond to the protestors’ claims.
Local Response to the Airshow
The Portrush Airshow will mark the event’s return after a five-year hiatus, with planned performances by professional wing-walkers and aerial acrobatics. Attendees are expected to witness thrilling displays while also feeling the local economic impact. Councillor Richard Holmes from the Ulster Unionist Party highlighted the anticipated influx of visitors, estimating that 80,000 to 100,000 people will attend, generating approximately £2.4 million for the local economy.
The last airshow, held in 2019, faced criticism regarding its costs and was canceled in the subsequent year due to budget constraints within the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council. Recent increases in domestic rates and local financial pressures have led to discussions about the sustainability of such events. However, local business owners are optimistic that the show’s return will boost tourism and sales, adding to the positive buzz surrounding the area.
Featured Performers at the Airshow
This year’s lineup includes the participation of professional wing-walkers Emma Broadbent and Kirsten Pobjoy, who are part of the AeroSuperBatics team. Both performers are eager to showcase their skills, which involve acrobatic stunts performed on the wings of biplanes flying at over 100 mph.
Both Broadbent and Pobjoy, who have experience performing in various global locations, expressed their excitement about returning to Northern Ireland due to its stunning scenery. They acknowledged the challenges of performing in different weather conditions, noting that while they adapt to rain, it can feel particularly harsh at high speeds.
“On a nice sunny day, it is amazing,” Broadbent noted. “But when it’s raining it can be a bit of a nightmare when you see that big black cloud rolling in.”
Event Logistics and Visitor Information
This year, the airshow will take place along a new coastal route, beginning at Ballyreagh Golf Course and extending to West Bay in Portrush. This change aims to provide spectators with improved viewing options for the aerial displays, while also managing the expected crowds more effectively. Local authorities, including the Police Service of Northern Ireland, have advised visitors to utilize public transport and adhere to any event restrictions in place.
As Portrush gets ready for the airshow, there’s a lot happening. Exciting planes will be flying high, while some people are also showing their concerns through protests. This mix of celebration and protest shows how events can be both fun and serious in a place with a deep history and strong feelings.
