The coastal town of Cobh, Co Cork, is set to play a major role in the 100th anniversary commemorations of the sinking of the Titanic, with ecumenical and wreath-laying services among the activities planned.
Yesterday Michael Martin, a former member of the Naval Service who runs the Titanic Trail in Cobh, confirmed that the local council had signed a memorandum of understanding with a series of other Titanic-related cities regarding the centenary commemorations.
Cities such as Southampton, Liverpool, Halifax (Nova Scotia), New York and Cherbourg are to work together to host a series of events in 2012. Cobh Town Council has formally approved plans to be involved in the commemoration ceremonies.
Mr Martin said the events hosted in Cobh would remember all of the people affected by the tragedy, including the 79 who boarded the liner when it anchored in the Co Cork town.
"It will all be commemorative, not celebratory. For the 95th anniversary we lit 79 candles in St Colman's Cathedral here and also had an ecumenical service. We will do something on a larger scale for the 100th."
In 2000 Mr Martin was involved in the placing of a brass memorial plaque on the wreck of the Titanic. The wording on the plaque read, "Commemorating all those lost on RMS Titanic. From the people of Cobh (Queenstown) and Ireland. Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí da nanamacha."
Anyone who has a connection to the Titanic who would like to play a role in the commemorations is asked to e-mail Mr Martin at info@titanic-trail.com or write to c/o The Titanic Trail, Carrignafoy, Cobh, Co Cork.