DERRYLIN has been selected to host the 2014 Hungerstrike Commemoration next month.

The annual commemoration honours Irish Hungerstrikers through a series of events including lectures, displays and youth events.

Announcing the Fermanagh location for this year's event, Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP, Michelle Gildernew said the Hungerstrike was a “pivotal moment in Irish history”.

“I am proud that Fermanagh has been selected to stage the National Hungerstrike Commemoration given the fact that Bobby Sands was elected to represent this constituency in 1981,” she said.

“The commemoration attracts up to 10,000 people so there is also an economic benefit to the local businesses as many people will travel to the area over the weekend.

“The organizing committee is already working with the local community to minimize any disruption during the parade and ensure that the event is successful.

“The Hungerstrike was a pivotal moment in Irish history and the people of this county are very proud of the link that we have with the hungerstrikes and the historic election of Bobby Sands as an MP. It is right and fitting that this event is now coming to Fermanagh and I would appeal to local people to come out and support the event.”