Tonight, the Irish Society of the National Capital Region is celebrating the arrival of two plaques commemorating Irish contributions to the Rideau Canal’s construction.
The plaques, which will be complete sometime in the early fall, will increase understanding of the canal’s complex history, including the contributions of workers, according to a Parks Canada press release.
“It’s honouring the workers and the heritage of the workers who built the canal which helped build the capital which then helped build the country,” said Kevin Dooley, the event spokesperson.
The plaques will be placed on the Corktown footbridge in Centretown, and at Jones Falls in Elgin, Ont.
To celebrate the arrival of the plaques an event will take place between 7 and 10 tonght in the Kildare Room at the St. Brigid’s Centre.
Co-sponsored by the Ottawa & District Labour Council it will feature speeches and presentations as well as an appearance by Mayor Jim Watson.