The team behind the Birmingham St. Patrick’s Parade has issued a statement following the postponement of this years event.

The spectacle was originally scheduled to take place on Sunday 16th March in Digbeth.

Maurice Malone, Chief Executive at Birmingham Irish Association and head of the Parade organising team, said: “This decision has not been made lightly, and we deeply regret any disappointment this may cause to our incredible community, participants, and supporters.

“Our primary goal has always been to deliver a safe, enjoyable, and memorable parade that celebrates the vibrant Irish community in Birmingham.

“Year after year, thousands of you have joined us, rain or shine, to show your support and share in the joy of this cherished tradition. For that, we are immensely grateful.

However, safety is paramount, and as organisers, we are not prepared to compromise on this fundamental principle.

“Despite countless hours of planning and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters, the gap between what we can deliver with the resources and finances available and the requirements to host a safe and successful parade has proven too wide to bridge at this time.

”We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event possible.

”While this decision is undoubtedly disappointing, please know that we are already working on plans to ensure the St. Patrick's Festival remains a vibrant and cherished celebration in our community.

“We are committed to keeping the celebration of the parade alive in our city and look forward to celebrating with you all in the near future.

“Thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued support. Together, we will keep the spirit of the Irish community alive in Birmingham.”

Lyle Bignon, NTE Ambassador for Birmingham, working on behalf of the NTIA, said: “It is very disappointing to learn that the Birmingham St Patrick’s Parade organising team cannot meet increased safety/security costs this year, leading to the cancellation of the 2025 event as a result.

“The safety of audiences and revellers must, of course, always be central to any event.

“This challenge is sadly indicative of the current operating climate for the live event industry, in particular community and music, not just in Birmingham but one that major events and festivals across the UK face.

“As a former St Patrick's Festival board member, I know how much voluntary work and operational spend goes into this event.

”This decision will be particularly hard for the individuals who gave up their time and expertise for free to try and deliver the parade this year.

“The wider Birmingham Irish community, as well other communities in Birmingham, must step up if this important unifying celebration of identity and community is to continue in future.

“The cancellation is also a further example of how rising production costs and now limited support from local and regional authorities directly damages community culture and heritage in our city.

”Our Irish Quarter pubs, bars, retailers, cafés, restaurants, hotels and other visitor and NTE businesses rely on the success of the parade weekend to help meet the cost of operating in the challenging economic climate, and many will have already committed to booking additional staff and entertainment.

”I would urge all families and revellers who were previously planning to attend the parade, to commit to visiting Digbeth for food, drink and entertainment the same weekend; the Digbeth area - our city's Irish Quarter - will still be celebrating St Patrick's Day in true Irish fashion.”