tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50047305086314682432024-03-18T14:46:57.643+00:00Léargasby Sinn Féin's Gerry AdamsMáirtín Ó Muilleoirhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15088662505129211196noreply@blogger.comBlogger1005125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-58558374725204557692024-03-18T14:46:00.000+00:002024-03-18T14:46:02.733+00:00 International Women’s Day: Two formidable Belfast Women: Macalla na mBan <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">International Women’s Day</span></b></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Last Friday was </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">International Women’s Day – a day when around the world humankind </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">celebrates the work of women who are active in their communities, in trade unions, voluntary organisations, business, politics, their families and across every facet of our society.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">It is also a time to reflect on the long history of struggle by women for equality and fairness. In many aspects of life today women remain second class citizens - in pay and employment rights, conditions of work, in access to education and health and in protection before the law. Hardly a week passes without evidence emerging of the extent to which women continue to face violence in the home, in the workplace and within communities. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">A fortnight ago the northern Assembly endorsed a motion calling on the Executive to urgently implement a strategy</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">and framework to end violence against women and girls. During the debate it was revealed that since 2021 the North has the joint highest rate of femicide in Europe along with Romania. According to statistics from the PSNI between 2017 and 2022, “34 women and girls were killed by men. Many others faced other forms of violence, abuse and intimidation both within their own homes and the wider community.”</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Calling for a whole of society approach to tackling this First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “These women are not statistics, these women are our mothers, our sisters, our aunts, our daughters, our friends, our work colleagues, and they are us who have been speaking in this debate today. We must take action now to stop this violence and we must never forget those that have been killed.”</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Last year almost 98% of women surveyed for a report into violence against women - ‘Every Voice Matters!’ Violence Against Women in Northern Ireland’, published by the Ulster University - revealed that that they had experienced at least one form of violence or abuse in their lifetime. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">A second report, published by Queens University - ‘It’s Just What Happens’: Girls’ and Young Women’s Views and Experiences of Violence in Northern Ireland’ found that 73% of girls aged 12-17 reported having experienced at least one form of violence in their lifetime.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Irish Republicans have long understood the connection between Irish freedom and equality, and women’s rights. From Ann Devlin to Anna Parnell, from Countess Markievicz to Máire Drumm, from Sheena Campbell to Mairead Farrell, whose anniversary was last week, there is an unbroken line of women who sacrificed all in the quest for freedom and equality and justice. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">I had the great privilege of knowing some of this generation of republican women activists. They were ordinary women, many little more than teenagers, who at a time of great crisis and challenge for our people came forward to stand against injustice and to give leadership.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">At the end of this month Irish republicans will mark the 1916 Easter Rising. The Proclamation of the Republic recognises the rights of women. It opens by addressing Irish men and Irish women and guarantees not just ‘religious and civil liberty”; but also “equal rights and equal opportunities to all its citizens”. A century later the words of the Proclamation are as relevant as ever in the lives of women in Ireland. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Much of women’s work today is undervalued and underpaid. Irish women are still disproportionately concentrated in low-skill, low paid and part-time employment. Older women are more likely to live in social isolation. Traveller women face higher poverty, mortality and unemployment levels, and lower levels of educational attainment than their settled counterparts. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Internationally girls and women continue to face additional issues like female genital mutilation and arranged marriages.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">In Gaza over 8,000 women and girls have been killed in Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people. Tens of thousands more have no access to health care or personal care because their health service has been destroyed. This is shameful.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Women on the island of Ireland and all over the world have won many battles for equality over the past century, but there are further battles ahead. The struggle for justice and equality and equal rights will continue.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_02kxL_fXlpO6LqJLDFubK5DsWzjXr9CIa-uJuD-TXdm6ZkL7Qa1kvBw76nr0Uqg-0fsRJnrIxOv3xOTWl85vsTc3qRSwUfpt1dQj7_468C6uZTYOJGs3UOPU1A-Yi4R-NCpRkcba7NAzj5ij1wdr-SEK8loWl8dnfCqOlrfApvb-uiB0MhGY1FIk59c/s4032/winifred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_02kxL_fXlpO6LqJLDFubK5DsWzjXr9CIa-uJuD-TXdm6ZkL7Qa1kvBw76nr0Uqg-0fsRJnrIxOv3xOTWl85vsTc3qRSwUfpt1dQj7_468C6uZTYOJGs3UOPU1A-Yi4R-NCpRkcba7NAzj5ij1wdr-SEK8loWl8dnfCqOlrfApvb-uiB0MhGY1FIk59c/s320/winifred.jpg" width="240" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Winifred Carney</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Two formidable Belfast Women</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">On International Women’s Day history was made when two statues were unveiled at the front of Belfast City Hall to two formidable Irish republican women - Mary Anne McCracken and Winifred Carney. Despite the cold hundreds of people gathered for the ceremony to applaud these two fearless women and this important initiative by Belfast City Council. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Winifred Carney was born in Bangor but was reared at 5 Falls Road. She qualified as one of the first lady secretaries and short hand typists in Belfast and <span style="letter-spacing: 0.2pt;">was a strong advocate for the rights of women and a committed socialist. She worked closely with James Connolly and in 1913 she published Connolly’s, <i>Manifesto of Irish Textile Workers’ Union – To the Linen Slaves of Belfast. </i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; letter-spacing: 0.2pt;">Carney was also a member of the Cumann na mBan and the Irish Citizen Army. In 1916 she was the first women to enter the GPO during the Rising. She worked closely with Connolly in preparing dispatches. When the GPO was evacuated Carney was with the wounded Connolly as he was carried to number 16 Moore Street. There five of the signatories to the Proclamation held their last meeting as the Provisional Government. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Julia Grenan, Winifred Carney and Elizabeth O’Farrell were present. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; letter-spacing: 0.2pt;">Following the surrender Winifred Carney was imprisoned in England. In 1922 she was imprisoned in Armagh jail. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; letter-spacing: 0.2pt;">In 1928 she married George McBride. He had fought in the First World War and was from the Shankill Road. They were both committed socialists although differed on the national issue and the Rising. Winifred Carney remained a committed trade unionist throughout her life. She died on 21 November 1943. Belfast Graves erected a headstone on her grave in Milltown Cemetery in 1985.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_XbyOGOXkB6U8XrPA6NSo7blLX5_WJXjqfV528-XiJ7a1_xGIZ_GMLf48IhkmFHY1uEXzayXpDNyZg8qByaUeUhNMB-eCjXRPtriP1bJ1cdNpwplqt_-YjGXfHCnTc3rW07BRYDxomUTh2CdYfWHTJ7TA_aofo4Iv8t5f0tKumY2HBMOt_mSKEYcmGE/s3012/Mary%20Ann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3012" data-original-width="1630" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_XbyOGOXkB6U8XrPA6NSo7blLX5_WJXjqfV528-XiJ7a1_xGIZ_GMLf48IhkmFHY1uEXzayXpDNyZg8qByaUeUhNMB-eCjXRPtriP1bJ1cdNpwplqt_-YjGXfHCnTc3rW07BRYDxomUTh2CdYfWHTJ7TA_aofo4Iv8t5f0tKumY2HBMOt_mSKEYcmGE/s320/Mary%20Ann.jpg" width="173" /></a>Mary Ann McCracken was born in Belfast in July 1870 to a wealthy Presbyterian family. She was a radical thinker, social reformer, who was implacably opposed to slavery and poverty, and an advocate for the rights of women. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Her opposition to slavery was total. When Waddell Cunningham, a merchant, proposed in 1786 that the Belfast Slave Ship Company be established the scheme was vehemently opposed by those who later established the United Irish Society. This and Thomas Paine’s Rights of Man and the French and American revolutions hugely influenced Mary Ann her brother Henry Joy and all of those who came to found the United Irish Society in Belfast in October 1791.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">In July 1798 her brother Henry Joy McCracken was sentenced to be hanged for his part in the United Irish Rising. She was with him as he died. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">After the failure of the rebellion Mary Ann dedicated her life to many causes. The breadth of her interests and activism is remarkable. She helped provide education and apprenticeships for children through the Poor House Ladies Committee. In 1847 at the age of 77 she was one of those who established the <i>“Ladies Industrial School for the Relief of Destitution” </i>with the aim of helping those suffering as a result of An Gorta Mór. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Her opposition was such that as a small frail woman she would hand out leaflets opposing slavery to those boarding vessels to sail to the USA. Frail in body she might have been but strong in heart and spirit she remained all of her days. Mary Ann McCracken died on the 26 July 1866 aged 96.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Two great women now immortalised in statues in front of Belfast City Hall. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Macalla na mBan </span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">On Saturday evening as part of the events to mark International Women’s Day the garden in the Roddy McCorley Club in west Belfast was rededicated after major renovations. The garden was first opened in 2007. Carál Ní Chuilín gave the main address reminding those present of the sacrifice of republican women in the struggle for Irish freedom. I was asked to read my poem which I wrote in 2006 as a tribute to my friend and comrade Siobhan O’Hanlon.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Macalla na mBan</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Streachailt na mbBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Caoineadh na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Fulaingt na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Neart na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Foighne na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Fearg na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Dóchas na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Craic na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Gáire na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Cairdeas na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Áthas na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Grá na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Todhchaí na mBan</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: small; margin: 0cm 0cm 6pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Saoirse na mBan</span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-26082332883375555612024-03-03T10:35:00.001+00:002024-03-03T10:35:26.163+00:00<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsj1kpGczsgRqMMjgyhJfRSHkGlEHTLDKk86EX6HteCUacBgYMHLGDDKIbJUfzVallgg_A4D2qFb38D3vFye0pQfx3kNW3tWDa5WFEGO1JLkiG8pGOlJKj-i-JD5_hoSoKD3-78oiYNWn5hFY6iJ5le3qZDKY4Nhkz6dtGlUFleQ86v9qxNQSTdDAcek/s300/swf+Roger+Casement1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="243" data-original-width="300" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsj1kpGczsgRqMMjgyhJfRSHkGlEHTLDKk86EX6HteCUacBgYMHLGDDKIbJUfzVallgg_A4D2qFb38D3vFye0pQfx3kNW3tWDa5WFEGO1JLkiG8pGOlJKj-i-JD5_hoSoKD3-78oiYNWn5hFY6iJ5le3qZDKY4Nhkz6dtGlUFleQ86v9qxNQSTdDAcek/s1600/swf+Roger+Casement1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Roger Casemen</span></b><b><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">t </span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I have spent many
enjoyable afternoons in Casement Park watching countless football and hurling
games</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> and playing in some of them. I have</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">lost</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">count of my man of the match</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">triumphs</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">. </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">Especially for S</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">t.</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> Marys or Belfast
Schools in hurling. Or on Sports Days. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In the past the
stand and </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">terraces or raised</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">mounds</span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">around
the pitch provided a wonderful view of the contests. Some games attracted a few
hundred spectators while others were watched by enthralled thousands. </span><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Casement Park was
opened in June 1953 and was named after Roger Casement. He was one of the
leaders of the Easter Rising of 1916 who was hanged in London by the British in
August that year. The people of Belfast, but especially the west of the City,
raised over one hundred thousand pounds to construct Casement Park. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">For much of its 71
years Casement has been at the heart of the west Belfast community. At one
point classes for primary school children were held under the stand. On the 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary
of the Easter Rising in 1966 a huge and colourful pageant was held in Casement
to mark that historic moment in Irish history. For a time after Operation
Motorman in 1972 it was occupied for more than a year by the British Army. </span><span lang="GA" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">Rallies</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> in support of the hunger strikers were held there also.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">For the last 8
years it has lain empty and silent as a legal battle was fought over planning
permission for a new 34,000 seat stadium. That process is now at an end and
last week the first steps were taken to allow construction work to begin. The
decision by the Irish government to allocate €50 million toward the
construction is a very welcome development. The hope is that the new Casement
Park will rise phoenix-like within the next three to four years in time to host
the Euros in 2028. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">These exciting new
developments got me thinking about Roger Casement. Who was this Dublin man who
found a home in North Antrim and wanted to be buried at Murlough Bay near
Ballycastle? </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Casement was a
member of an Ulster Protestant family, a Knight of the British Empire and a
British diplomat. He was also a gaeilgeoir who loved the Glens of Antrim. He
was proud to be Irish. He was a thinker who took many of the weightiest
decisions of his life whilst pacing on Cushendall beach. He was resolute in his
opposition to British rule in Ireland and his goal was a free, united and
independent Ireland. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Casement came to
North Antrim after his mother died when he was nine. His father decided to
bring the family back from England to live near relatives. His father died in
Ballymena when Roger was 13. Roger remained in Ballymena, going to what later
became Ballymena Academy. He moved to England at the age of 16 and eventually
joined the civil service.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In 1903 he was
asked by the British government to produce a report on the conditions in a
region of the Congo controlled by the King Leopold of Belgium. Rubber and ivory
were the main produces. Indigenous workers were being mercilessly exploited.
Millions died from exhaustion, hunger and disease. Casement’s expose of the
cruelty of Leopold’s activities created an international outcry which led to
Leopold being stripped of his control of the Congo.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Later Casement was
sent to South America where he investigated the use of slaves and the
ill-treatment of local native people by a British rubber company. In 1911, for
this work Casement was given a Knighthood by the British. However, his
experience had also opened his eyes to colonialism. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Two years later
Casement helped establish the Irish Volunteers. He travelled to the USA to
raise money for that organisation and was involved in the smuggling of German
weapons into Howth in July 1914. Casement negotiated with the German government
during the First World War for more guns and assistance for the planned
rebellion. He was arrested by the British at Banna Strand in County Kerry in
April 1916 three days before the Rising took place.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">He was taken to
London where he was initially held in the Tower of London. Casement was viewed
by the English establishment as a traitor. He was tried for treason and hanged on
August 3<sup>rd</sup> 1916. In his famous and powerful speech from the
Dock Casement lambasted the English establishment. For England, he said … <i>“there
is only England; there is no Ireland; there is only the law of England, no
right of Ireland; the liberty of Ireland and of an Irishman is to be judged by
the power of England.”</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Addressing the
divisions created by English governments Casement said that Irish
Republicans: … <i>“aimed at uniting all Irishmen in a natural and
national bond of cohesion based on mutual self-respect. Our hope was a natural
one, and if left to ourselves, not hard to accomplish. If external influences
of disintegration would but leave us alone, we were sure that nature itself
must bring us together.”</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">And on
the right of the people of Ireland to independence and sovereignty Roger
Casement told the court that condemned him to death that: <i>“Self-government
is our right, a thing born in us at birth, a thing no more to be doled out to
us, or withheld from us, by another people than the right to life itself — than
the right to feel the sun, or smell the flowers, or to love our kind. It is
only from the convict these things are withheld, for crime committed and
proven, and Ireland, that has wronged no man, has injured no land, that has
sought no dominion over others — Ireland is being treated today among the
nations of the world as if she were a convicted criminal.”</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In a letter to his
cousin Elizabeth ‘Eilis’ Bannister dated 25 July 1916 from Pentonville Prison
Roger Casement wrote: <i>“Don’t let my body lie here – get me back to the
green hill by Murlough – by the McGarry’s house looking down on the Moyle –
that’s where I’d like to be now and that’s where I’d like to lie.” </i>In
1965 British Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson agreed to the return of
Casement but only to Dublin. He was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery. The new
Casement Park will be a fine tribute to a great patriot. Let’s get it built. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Swe4T-FCXbVzivvhx64O0nB0C3cLY6TZTqOc6T_co15sJLb3Zhmnx3cj5TO6oARzgLUUVBOYxTDCJrLzwKhdyftwOsEmd2RvMfT1D3uD2YRIiELrTbxjIaBbEkYXxrJKf8N7IcT_7lY9pmui1SDYYPtJTiYuTSIumD0ea5etxV4PNBCZ6AqmTZu7cWg/s1154/IMG_1583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="1154" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Swe4T-FCXbVzivvhx64O0nB0C3cLY6TZTqOc6T_co15sJLb3Zhmnx3cj5TO6oARzgLUUVBOYxTDCJrLzwKhdyftwOsEmd2RvMfT1D3uD2YRIiELrTbxjIaBbEkYXxrJKf8N7IcT_7lY9pmui1SDYYPtJTiYuTSIumD0ea5etxV4PNBCZ6AqmTZu7cWg/s320/IMG_1583.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Starvation</span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">There is now overwhelming evidence that the Israeli
state has added a new weapon to its arsenal of genocide against the Palestinian
people – hunger. The video and photographic images of starving children and
desperate parents searching for food and water are heart rending. The UN
says some 2.3 million people in Gaza are now on the brink of starvation.</span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Palestinian people
have been filmed eating grass in northern Gaza as emaciated children carry
bowls hoping for some food in southern Gaza. There are reports of babies dying
from acute malnutrition.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">We Irish have our
memory of An Gorta Mór - The Great Hunger of 1845-52 - and of starving people
eating grass. Some call it the Irish Famine but in a famine there is no food
due to some natural catastrophe. In Ireland there was plenty of
food. During those years the quaysides of Limerick were lined each day with
abundant produce including pork, oats, eggs, sides of ham and beef––all bound
for export. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The reality and
irony of this is appalling and was aptly described by George Bernard Shaw in
his play “Man and Superman.” The character Malone says<i>: ‘My father died of starvation
in Ireland in the Black 47. Maybe you’ve heard of it?</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Violet
replies, <i>‘The Famine?’</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">‘No’</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">, says
Malone <i>‘the starvation. When a country is full of food and exporting
it, there can be no famine.’</i></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">And so it is in the
Gaza Strip. There is plenty of food waiting in food trucks. More will be sent
but the Israeli state is deliberately blocking these. Starvation and hunger are
now part of its strategy to kill Palestinians and drive them from their land.
It cannot be allowed. Ceasefire now. We are all Palestinians. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-43872579707671567482024-02-26T18:30:00.000+00:002024-02-26T18:30:46.426+00:00Respect: A Window on the Past: Ceasefire Now<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxtM6KL2dwM77i5H4R6sciLzNzp5PaxgW3rZnOL7mz5RbEt5tlD3ZU3T9v5UPMnVMBiKrSILjyPdqeUQPPtTZI68K3SEDQB_r-lZEPqA9ZHtes3yIMBQnkMda5TBF0jsID3b3PAL6RkApb_XI8wiHy0d-Xy2ckrDYv3_1G8g2Ow4-m0LhJlXHkzZ0nWs/s1546/Dunloy%20crowd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1546" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxtM6KL2dwM77i5H4R6sciLzNzp5PaxgW3rZnOL7mz5RbEt5tlD3ZU3T9v5UPMnVMBiKrSILjyPdqeUQPPtTZI68K3SEDQB_r-lZEPqA9ZHtes3yIMBQnkMda5TBF0jsID3b3PAL6RkApb_XI8wiHy0d-Xy2ckrDYv3_1G8g2Ow4-m0LhJlXHkzZ0nWs/s320/Dunloy%20crowd.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Respect</span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On Sunday last I
spoke at the 40th Anniversary Commemoration of the killing by the SAS of IRA
Volunteers Henry Hogan and Declan Martin in Dunloy County Antrim. Declan was
18. Henry was 20.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I was also the
speaker at the</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> funerals in February
1984. </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">At that time
hundreds of RUC and scores of landrovers surrounded Henry
Hogans wake house and myself, Martin McGuinness, Danny Morisson and Owen Carron
linked arms with other mourners to create a human barrier around the house and
the funeral to shield them from the RUC. That is the way many republican
funerals were conducted in those days.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It was part of a
conspiracy between the NIO, the RUC, British Army and the Catholic Hierarchy to
stop patriot dead being buried with the national flag as part of their criminalisation
strategy. It eventually failed as a strategy not least
because of the resolve of the families involved, their neighbours
and friends and local republican communities. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Sunday</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s event which
drew a huge crowd, was part of a weekend of discussions, music and remembrance
in Dunloy. It got me to thinking of how this effort to criminalise our patriot
dead is still the focus nowadays of some anti</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">-</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">republican
elements and some lazy journalists. One of the questions most asked
of newly elected First Minister Michelle O Neill is whether she will attend IRA
commemorations. No questions to unionist representatives about their attendance
at commemorative events. And neither should there be. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I have no
objection to them or others commemorating their dead. This includes
British soldiers, RUC or UDR officers and unionist paramilitaries. I said this
in Dunloy on Sunday. Of course all acts of rememberance should be
conducted in a dignified and sensitive way. They should also be held only in
places which are generally receptive tosuch events. No one should engage in
provocative language or offensive behaviour. Respect should be the
watchword. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Incidently there
are no IRA commemorations. The IRA is gone. Republican commemorations are
organised by groups like The National Graves Association or The National
Commemoration Committee which is respnsible for 1916 events or by
local committees drawn from local communities, old comrades, families, Sinn
Féin and others. They are not about - and should not be about -
being provocative. We who have suffered in the conflict are not
about glamourising or glorifying the war. We should be mindful always of the
feeling of those who lost loved ones due to IRA actions. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And others who
often still describe republicans as terrororists need to ask themselves what is
achieved by such offensive language. The war is over. The healing has begun for
many people. This is for the good. Leaders can help this by
tempering their language. We will probably never agree on the past. But we can
agree to disagree. There is no single narrative. Only by including all the
narratives will a complete picture emerge of what happened and why it happened.
Understanding that is part of being enabled to prevent it ever happening
again. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Of course it is not
only elements of the British or unionist establishment who continue to insult
republican communities or the families of republican patriot dead. The Dublin
establishment also repeats the same old story. Again and again. They
don</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">t do irony. Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin
leads the chorus of ooh aah good old Ra of the 1920s while insulting the
families of the bad old Ra of more recent times. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Will he change
his tune? Probably not. But we live in hope. I</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">m not even
arguing for him to do so. Let</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s keep our views
of the past if that is all we can do but let</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s try
to articulate it differently. I</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">m arguing for us
to move into a new phase of our process of change. A phase of healing and
shaping the future. The past is gone. Let</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s not repeat
it. Even rhetorically. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Of course some
victims cannot move on. Fair enough. That</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s their
entitlement. But others have and continue to do so. They are an example to the
rest of us. Especially for those in political leadership. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The leader of
the DUP was once a member of the UDR, an organisation which the British
Government had to disband. The leader of the UUP is a former British soldier. I
have yet to hear a Sinn Féin representative cast up about any of that.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So let</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s reflect on how
we commemorate our dead. Republicans need to continue to do so in a
fitting manner, in tune with current political conditions and with a mind to
building an inclusive future. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Others should
join us in this endeavour. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">A Window on the Past</span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Ask almost everyone you know about
the date when internment was introduced and the 9 August 1971 will be the
popular answer. .</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That was the day 342 men and boys
were dragged from their homes in the early hours of the morning to be beaten,
interrogated and interned. Fourteen were the victims of planned torture – the
Hooded Men.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">What is less well known is that
August 1971 was not the first time internment was introduced in the most recent
phase of conflict. I was reminded of this by my good friend and comrade Tom
Hartley – noted historian and collector - who presented me with a photocopy of
a page from the Irish Press – a Dublin based paper at the time – in which the
names of 24 Republicans interned in Crumlin Road Prison was published on 22
August 1969.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Internment was a favoured weapon of
the British and of the unionist regime at Stormont. It was also widely employed
by Britain’s colonial administrations across its colonies. It was used by
the British after the Easter Rising and by the Free State government during the
Civil War. In the North the unionist government used it in 1922-23; 1925; 1935;
1938-45; 1950-51; and 1957-61. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In August 1969 unionist mobs led by B
Specials and the RUC attacked nationalist parts of Belfast. Hundreds of homes
were destroyed, thousands of families became refugees and … were killed. The
Unionist regime sought to blame Republicans for these events. Even claiming to
a disbelieving media that nationalist families had destroyed their own homes.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Unionist Prime Minister
Chichester-Clarke issued a public statement in which he claimed that: “<i>Well-disciplined
and ruthless men, working to an evident plan, attacked the police at a number
of points in the city.</i>” He described this as a “<i>…a deliberate conspiracy
to subvert a democratically-elected Government.</i>” The aim was to blame the
IRA not unionism and its street mobs for the instigation of violence. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">As British soldiers were being
deployed on our streets the RUC raided homes and arrested two dozen
Republicans. They were all interned under the notorious Special Powers Act.
They included Prionsias MacAirt; Jimmie Hargey; John McGuigan; J. McCann;
Frank Campbell; Denis Cassidy; Denis Casson; M. Darity; J.J. Davey; Frank
Donnelly; P. Duffy; R. Fitzpatrick; L. Johnston; D.J. Loy; H. Mallon;
P.J. McCusker; John McEldowney; F. McGlennon; Malachy McGurran; Liam McIlvenna;
Billy McMillan; L. Savage; M. Toal and F. White. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibZzt9kJKnSf72VpdWrnyIW2iPLdbB56TSUq3JOoaeqMRcfhpoAj5J2RhsuT-WtH4N1Ehj8YQxBCHh5f2EEHiPv90W1PJKGA5X9dqamSzaF6Lxu3AcvmQc9RrImyu6eJL_VogneLxaNdb0vrNTuf_KW8F5-KGMg7N-2rNsgHf1wfPNO7Y2kxhmhmlNBQ/s1170/Jimmie%20Hargey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="947" data-original-width="1170" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibZzt9kJKnSf72VpdWrnyIW2iPLdbB56TSUq3JOoaeqMRcfhpoAj5J2RhsuT-WtH4N1Ehj8YQxBCHh5f2EEHiPv90W1PJKGA5X9dqamSzaF6Lxu3AcvmQc9RrImyu6eJL_VogneLxaNdb0vrNTuf_KW8F5-KGMg7N-2rNsgHf1wfPNO7Y2kxhmhmlNBQ/s320/Jimmie%20Hargey.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I sent Deirdre Hargey MLA the
clipping Tom sent me for her mother. In turn Deirdre sent me an RUC photo
of her father taken at his arrest. So there you have. Another little example
of the state we were in. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Most of the 24 internees were
released within weeks. Billy McMillan, Prionsias MacAirt and Malachy McGurran
continued to be held. McMillan was eventually released in late September while
Prionsias MacAirt and Malachy McGurran were held until the end of the year.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ceasefire Now<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The European
Union’s Foreign Policy chief Joseph Borrell took issue with US President Joe
Biden and his remarks that the Israeli state’s offensive against the
Palestinian people had been excessive. “If you believe that too many people are
being killed maybe you should provide less arms,” Mr. Borrell said…”If the
international community believes<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that
this is a slaughter, that too many people are being killed, maybe they have to
think about the provision of arms.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mr. Borrell is
right. The US administration along with Britain and other European powers are
complicit in what Israeli state’s violations of international humanitarian law.
It’s long since time for a ceasefire. The huge attendance at demonstrations
across the world, including Ireland, shows there is popular support for an end
to the genocide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People want peace. The
Palestinian people deserve peace. Ceasefire now.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><br /></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-5525171221360448032024-02-26T18:25:00.002+00:002024-02-26T18:25:25.123+00:00An appeal for Information: Israel’s War Against Children: Moore St Raffle<p> </p><p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">An appeal
for Information<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the 1970s the IRA shot dead and secretly buried a number of people. This is a
terrible legacy of that period of our history. <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>The families of those
killed have suffered a grievous injustice. Republicans, including the IRA,
recognise and have acknowledged this fact. What happened was wrong and
unjustifiable. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the autumn of 1997 as part of the outworking of the peace process and following
representations from Fr. Alec Reid and me the IRA established a special
investigative unit to ascertain the whereabouts of these graves. Following that
investigation the IRA said it <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>believed
that the number of persons involved was nine. In April 1999 it issued a
statement acknowledging this and naming those killed and buried by it. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Independent Commission for the Location of Victims Remains was established in
the same month by the Irish and British governments. This followed
representations from myself and Fr. Alec Reid. The hope at that time that the
remains would be quickly recovered proved naïve. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">One reason for this is that the IRA –
as is widely acknowledged - had no institutional memory – no records to examine
that would provide accurate information. It was entirely reliant on the
memories of those who were involved. After so many years memories proved
elusive in some cases, small numbers of people were involved and some had died
in the interval. Geography and landscape too had changed making the pinpointing
of locations challenging. And of course the IRA no longer exists. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">After
the first bodies were recovered there was then a significant gap. I discussed
this with Fr. Alec Reid and we put a proposal to the governments in 2001 in
which he urged them to employ experts in the recovery of remains. We also
proposed the use of high-tech equipment and archaeological methods, including
archaeological specialists, forensic experts, specialist scanning equipment and
body dogs. We also suggested that ‘a recreation of the scene’ approach be
adopted.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">It
took some years for this to materialise. The service of a forensic science
investigative consultant was secured. Geoff Knupfer took up his position in
2005 and immediately carried out a review of the work up to that point. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Republicans
immediately engaged with Mr. Knupfer and up to his retirement last year met
with him on numerous occasions as the efforts to locate remains continued. In
2007 Mr. Knupfer acknowledged the co-operation he and his team received. He
said:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"In a spirit of co-operation and
reconciliation they [the IRA] are trying to help in every way they can. I am
absolutely convinced that they are doing everything they can to assist. The
support we have had from them has been absolutely 100 per cent from day
one."<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Geoff Knupfer’s deputy Jon Hill, who has since
taken over as lead investigator, reiterated this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
process to date has involved;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The use of aerial photographs,
from military or commercial sources of the sites at the time of the killings.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Ordinance survey maps of this
period.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Forestry records.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">X Ray equipment.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Archaeological experts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Records, maps, photos, reports
of work already carried out on each site.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The appointment of a project
manager with the power to make things happen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">It success can be seen in its results.
According to its most recent account the Commission reported that seventeen
people were killed and secretly buried. Seamus Ruddy was victim of the INLA and
his remains were recovered in May 2017 and Seamus Maguire is believed to have
been the victim of another republican group. The list does not include Lisa
Dorrian who is believed to have been killed by the UVF and whose death after
the Good Friday Agreement is outside the remit of the Commission. As a result
of the work of the Commission and information provided to it by republican
sources thirteen bodies have been recovered. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are still three outstanding cases that were the responsibility of the IRA.
These are Columba McVeigh; Robert Nairac and Joseph Lynskey. The failure thus
far to find the remaining bodies is not due to any lack of resolve or
cooperation by republicans. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">All
of these families have a fundamental right to bury their loved ones with
dignity. I continue to meet with the Commission and I want to appeal again for
anyone with information to bring that information forward. They can do so in
complete confidence to me, or to the families involved or to the Commission. If
they wish to speak to someone else that too is fine. What is important is that
anyone with information makes that information available.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<pre><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Finally, I want to commend all of the families who have campaigned with dignity for many years to locate the remains of their loved ones. I also want to acknowledge once again the grave injustice inflicted upon them and to express my deep regret about this. <o:p></o:p></span></pre><pre>I want to thank everyone who has worked to help the families, including the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims Remains, An Garda Síochána and the experts and staff who have been brought in to assist in this work. They deserve our full support.</pre>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The killing and secret burial of
people – has long been a brutal feature of war. In 2009 a report by a UN
Working Group recorded a total of 53,232 cases from 1980 affecting 82 states. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">According to historians <strong><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Pádraig Óg Ó
Ruairc and </span></strong><span style="background: white;">Dr Andy Bielenberg in
an article, ‘Shallow Graves—documenting and assessing IRA disappearances during
the Irish revolution 1919–1923’ </span>the IRA was responsible for killing and
secretly burying approximately 110 people during that period. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 3.75pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">No effort was made following the end of the
civil war to establish any process by which these bodies could be recovered and
returned to their families. We must continue our efforts to recover the remains
of Columba McVeigh; Robert Nairac and Joseph Lynskey. <o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<h3 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 3.75pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">I would appeal to anyone with information to
bring that forward. They can do so directly to the Commission on the basis of
confidentiality. The confidential number for the Commission is </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">00800 – 55585500. <o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Israel’s War Against Children<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">The accounts
of the Israeli genocide in the Gaza Strip against the Palestinian people have
produced many difficult and heart wrenching moments. The destruction of homes
and schools and hospitals; the deliberate killing of over 30,000 children,
women and men; the mass murder of health workers, journalists and civilians; the
destruction of cemeteries; the premeditated shepherding of civilians into
killing zones by Israeli forces, and so much more have shocked and appalled
millions around the world. The Israeli state’s war on Gaza will be remembered
for all this. It will also be forever remembered as Israel’s war against
children.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Hind Rajab was aged 6. Look at the photo of
this beautiful young child. No threat to anyone. She went missing on 29 January
in Gaza City along with her Aunt and Uncle and cousins as they tried to flee in
their car. She spoke by mobile to the Palestine Red Crescent. An audio
recording of her last words were released by it. Her family had been killed by an
Israeli Tank and she was alone in the car with the bodies around her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">She was
terrified. She pleaded for help. “Come take me. You will come and take me? … </span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m so scared, please come. Please call someone
to come and take me.” </span><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Desperately the Red Crescent sought clearance from
the Israeli Army to send an ambulance. But contact was lost with that also.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">At the
weekend her decomposing body and those of her family were found in their bullet
riddled car. The Ambulance was found parked nearby. It was destroyed and the
two medics killed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">This is
Israel’s war on children. Almost 12,000 children have been killed and many more
lie buried under the rubble.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: white; color: #121212; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 1; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #141414; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">And with
Israel marshalling its forces for an attack on Rafah - the largest displaced
refugee camp in the world – the scene is being set for a humanitarian
catastrophe not witnessed before.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Moore St Raffle<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Moore Street Preservation Trust are raffling a framed,
limited edition Moore Street Print by renowned Irish Artist Robert
Ballagh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Tickets are €10/£9 and the draw will take place on Easter
Sunday. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Get your tickets here: </span><a href="http://msptshop.myshopify.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">http://msptshop.myshopify.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Remember our history. Support our
campaign. Stop the demolition of Moore Street. Build a
1916 Cultural Quarter.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-10220949538454400702024-02-26T18:17:00.006+00:002024-02-26T18:17:59.231+00:00Something fundamental has happened: Alex Maskey: Ivor Browne<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPBCAtW-QZqREmfgNzlN4Q5IVa4vRlvoiyz0S4qjtYgrhATTjhLjjfqtCvJBAAfBBIJ1OU4Bz4gyC3Xz1oFCciKyOoZu3GEGcqOAZ0h2yuuCED59jFkyv_v3_YpSMNcoCH6suRMvewl7HbH0Svi_RH-OYiSxzKbRPYilMer0rJy0C-BhELOirJPx-2Uc/s2052/Michelle%20walking%20into%20the%20Assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2052" data-original-width="1018" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPBCAtW-QZqREmfgNzlN4Q5IVa4vRlvoiyz0S4qjtYgrhATTjhLjjfqtCvJBAAfBBIJ1OU4Bz4gyC3Xz1oFCciKyOoZu3GEGcqOAZ0h2yuuCED59jFkyv_v3_YpSMNcoCH6suRMvewl7HbH0Svi_RH-OYiSxzKbRPYilMer0rJy0C-BhELOirJPx-2Uc/s320/Michelle%20walking%20into%20the%20Assembly.jpg" width="159" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Something
fundamental has happened.</span></strong></div><p></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The restoration last
Saturday of the political institutions and the election of Michelle O'Neill as
First Minister marks an extraordinary turning point in the process of
constitutional change for the North and for the island of Ireland. It is a
significant new chapter in the transitional process of change that began with
the peace process. Last Saturday something fundamental happened.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In its century of
existence the northern statelet reflected the ethos and wishes of those who
ruled us. It was born out of colonialism, occupation, conflict, sectarian
division, fear and partition. Under successive unionist and British regimes it
relied for its survival on special powers, structured inequality and
discrimination. Up to this point the northern state has had 11 unionist Prime
Ministers and First Ministers and a succession of largely mediocre British
Secretaries of State who saw their role as shoring up unionism and defending
partition and the union. Last Saturday that changed. A Republican is now First
Minister. Structures foisted on us to block this from ever happening have
crumbled.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In 1998 the Good
Friday Agreement began the challenging process of unravelling all of this. It
provided for a level playing field on which all of the political parties can
present their analysis; promote their policies; and advocate for their
objectives – Irish Unity or Union with Britain – while requiring that they
accept the outcome of the democratic process. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">On the core issues of
Irish Unity or the Union the Agreement recognised that it is for the people “of
the island of Ireland alone, by agreement between the two parts respectively
and without external impediment, to exercise their right of self-determination
on the basis of consent, freely and concurrently given, North and South, to
bring about a united Ireland, if that is their wish, accepting that this right
must be achieved and exercised with and subject to the agreement and consent of
a majority of the people of Northern Ireland.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The Agreement also
provides for referendums North and South and if in the future, the people vote
for Irish Unity there is a “binding obligation on both Governments to introduce
and support in their respective Parliaments legislation to give effect to that
wish.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Of course, British
governments are not renowned for honouring commitments. Last week, following
his deal with the DUP, British Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris claimed
that any change on the North’s place in the union “would absolutely depend on
the consent of both communities.” Not true. Any change will depend on a
democratic majority in a referendum voting for unity. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">That places a
significant onus on republicans who want maximum constitutional change and a
new Ireland – united and independent - to engage positively with those who do
not share our vision of the future or with those who are unsure what that
future should look like. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Michelle O’Neill will
carry out her duties and responsibilities honestly and with diligence. As First
Minister she will advocate for every citizen, and for every family irrespective
of their attitude to the Union or Irish Unity. She will defend the right of
every citizen, of every family, to choose their preferred future. But as a
committed Irish Republican activist and leader she will also work to advance
the objective of Irish Unity. These are not contradictory positions. They are
complementary.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Michelle’s speech to
the Assembly is evidence of this. It was a confident, well delivered
wide-ranging manifesto for change for the future. It spoke of the need to
deliver “for all our people, for every community” and to make “life better for
workers, families, communities.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Michelle acknowledged
that the new Executive will “face great challenges” and it will. Not least
because of the stranglehold British governments – Tory and Labour - have over
the North. Among these she identified the rising cost of living, patients
waiting for treatment and support, workers on the picket lines, the need for
childcare supports, social and affordable housing, key infrastructure
development projects, the climate crisis and Lough Neagh, and using the Windsor
Framework to advance the all-Ireland economy. She identified the epidemic of
violence against women and girls and said she would prioritise a new strategy
to tackle this.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">She expressed her
sorrow for all the lives lost during the conflict. And she committed herself to
the work of reconciliation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Michelle spoke for all
of us who have watched in horror the Israeli government’s genocide against the Palestinian
people when she called for an immediate ceasefire. For dialogue and peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Last Saturday was a
good day. Everyone who made a stand over the decades or in more recent times
should be proud of the progress we have made. Inevitably there will be many
challenges. The Tories in London are not our friends. And the Executive is a
coalition of parties with widely different opinions. But with good will and
respect we can make it work. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOWNOr165v540puoVlyLWcI4fWwDRSPC8EU1Kx9VJp41EjMPyQAgSCC64XZdRkbNYs307UNAcFEvXiJdkUYv1gl49qAn0L4JPuvMM86cMlA6mJneCphAMtYFIXdvWBqkUjNJt6mZufPLpBA0vvHIOMy1nS1PnqFw2Nma3LZUneYTKF4rBlF3XcSBAj60/s3274/Gerry%20and%20Alex%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3274" data-original-width="2797" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOWNOr165v540puoVlyLWcI4fWwDRSPC8EU1Kx9VJp41EjMPyQAgSCC64XZdRkbNYs307UNAcFEvXiJdkUYv1gl49qAn0L4JPuvMM86cMlA6mJneCphAMtYFIXdvWBqkUjNJt6mZufPLpBA0vvHIOMy1nS1PnqFw2Nma3LZUneYTKF4rBlF3XcSBAj60/s320/Gerry%20and%20Alex%20.jpg" width="273" /></a><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Alex Maskey</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Before the business of
electing the Ministers my friend and comrade for many years Alex Maskey finally
got the opportunity to step back from the Ceann Chomhairle’s office.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Four years ago years
Alex was elected Speaker and he did that job intelligently, fairly and
patiently. His time was up in 2022 but because the Assembly was suspended Alex
continued to play that role for the last two years. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">He took a number of
very worthy initiatives even though the Assembly was suspended. They
included A Youth Assembly made up of ninety young people aged from
thirteen to eighteen. He also convened A Women's Parliament and an Assembly for
Citizens with Disabilities. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">He met foreign
delegations and hosted others interested in the Good Friday Agreement and the
peace process. Last year he was front and centre in Parliament Buildings for
the 25th celebration of the Good Friday Agreement.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The respect and esteem
in which he is held was evident at the weekend in the unanimous words of praise
and thanks he received from all sides of the Assembly.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">It was a far cry from
Alex’s first entry into elected politics in 1983. In June that year he was Sinn
Féin’s first Belfast City Councillor. He ran a gauntlet of abuse from
unionists. They refused to talk to him. They tried to shout him down, sounded
horns, blew rape whistles, threatened him. He was the target of constant
harassment by the British Army and RUC and the victim of several assassination
attempts by unionist death squads, including one in which his friend Alan Lundy
was shot and killed in Alex’s home and another in which Alex was gravely
wounded. Undaunted by all of this Alex went on to become the first ever Sinn
Féin Mayor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Alex has committed
himself to continuing his activism and to the goal of Irish Unity and to the
principles and objectives he has dedicated his life to. So, well done Alex and
well done also to Liz, an activist in her own right. She has been by his side
through all of these years. Ádh mor oraibh a chairde. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ivor Browne</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ivor Browne died last
week, aged ninety four. I admired him a lot. And I’m glad to say I met him a
few times. He was one of the world’s leading and pioneering psychiatrists. As
President Micheal D Higgins said he ‘…left a profound mark on the understanding
and attitudes to mental health in Ireland’. A visionary and a doer Ivor
dismantled mental institutions and developed community clinics. He was a
revolutionary. Professor Brendan Kelly said his legacy was ‘the additional
liberty enjoyed by thousands of people who avoided institutionalisation as a
result of the reforms which Ivor came to represent’.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">He spoke up on behalf
of the political prisoners, especially the Armagh Women Political Prisoners.
Speaking out in 1985 against strip searching he said: “Strip searching is a
rather violent procedure and tremendous intrusion on a human being . . . In
Ireland clothes are almost a part of a person’s body. To invade this is a
violation. It is a violent act, and I think, in this sense rapacious.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ivor was also a
musician and a co founder in 1959, with Garech Browne, of Claddagh Records, to
record Irish traditional music, song and poetry. Claddagh is still
thriving and wonderful elements of our rich heritage is preserved thanks to
their vision. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ivor was also SNQ -
sound on the national question. He did great work in Derry in the 1970s and
afterwards by assisting the development of community models for
human development. My condolences to Ivor’s family. His life was a life
well lived. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-25080439845563266942024-02-01T13:25:00.002+00:002024-02-01T13:25:40.835+00:00Comhghairdeas Kneecap; Irish government must join; Áras Uí Chonghaile – A world class visitor centre; <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o9xv1_xfpUmObYwpNqqnzHVpmavPqU6PL5KGLve-px6EgkanCHQNJZGWiyEG8qLuhrGkcni29q78BJtL9jlvh8KlvC7lcSrENTKs-sp7z1COS6bMrBE2ZWBznlJgZgI15M0sMVo30zgz4gsvBGVgTnUbh79V26zrpmrs1OmikkKWIJ1QXwQmZrZZgDo/s2478/GerryA%20with%20Kneecap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2300" data-original-width="2478" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o9xv1_xfpUmObYwpNqqnzHVpmavPqU6PL5KGLve-px6EgkanCHQNJZGWiyEG8qLuhrGkcni29q78BJtL9jlvh8KlvC7lcSrENTKs-sp7z1COS6bMrBE2ZWBznlJgZgI15M0sMVo30zgz4gsvBGVgTnUbh79V26zrpmrs1OmikkKWIJ1QXwQmZrZZgDo/s320/GerryA%20with%20Kneecap.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Comhghairdeas
Kneecap <o:p></o:p></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F8F9FA; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Comhghairdeas </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Kneecap</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> as an rath a bhí ar </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">bhur</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> scannán ag féile scannán
Sundance. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F8F9FA; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last August I
travelled over to a studio close to Queen’s University to meet with Kneecap.
The three west Belfast lads were busy putting the final touches to their movie
which recounts – mostly i nGaeilge - how they were formed. That night they were
to do some work with Michael Fassbender but I was there to film a short
segment. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F8F9FA; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Mo Chara, Móglaí
Bap and DJ Próvaí and director Rich Peppiatt all watched and laughed as I stammered
my way through several different versions of my lines. That evening Kneecap
played a sell out gig at the West Belfast Féile in the Falls Park.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F8F9FA; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I haven’t seen
the film yet. I am looking forward to it. Kneecap’s music is exuberant and fun.
They have a sharp sense of the outrageous, the political and the ironic. The
crowd that night in the Park was enthusiastic and we all enjoyed every minute
of the performance. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Despite criticism from the DUP and others who never
have anything positive to say about the Irish language, the reports from the
Sundance Film Festival have been amazing. The festival is the most
important international film event for independent film makers. Kneecap being
screened there was hugely significant. As is now well known the film received
widespread critical acclaim at its first night opening, with Variety, the
major entertainment trade paper, describing it as: “A triumph … to keep a language
alive it must be part of the culture now, and not only a remnant of
bygone eras. Their music has the power to inspire those their age to learn it,
to pass it on.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">To add to this success the following day the film
was picked up by Sony Picture Classics for distribution across the
USA, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Turkey and the Middle East. And then
at the end of last week came the news that it had picked up the Audience Award:
NEXT. The first time a non-US film had been selected to take part in that
section of the festival.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So well done again to Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and
DJ Próvaí, Rich, Trevor and all of those who helped make Kneecap. The movie
will be shown in Ireland later this year. Watch for the ads – Agus bígí linn.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span class="y2iqfc"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Irish
government must join <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Many
thanks and commendations to the government of South Africa for taking the case
to the ICJ on behalf of the people of Palestine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
was widespread welcome for the decision of the International Court of Justice
last week ordering Israel to:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Refrain from
acts under the genocide convention<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prevent and
punish the direct and public incitement to genocide<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Take measures
to ensure humanitarian assistance to civilians<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Preserve
evidence of genocide and submit a report to the Court <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">And submit a
report to the ICJ in one month.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span class="y2iqfc"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">While
the Court did not call for an immediate ceasefire the import of its judgement
is that a ceasefire is now imperative. The Court ordered that Israel </span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘take all
measures within its power to prevent’ the killing of Palestinians; causing them
‘serious bodily or mental harm’; prevent the deliberate inflicting ‘conditions
of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in
part.’ The Court said that ‘Israel must ensure with immediate effect that its
military forces do not commit any of the above-described acts. How do they do
that and wage war?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
onus is now on the international community to increase pressure on Israel and
its allies to call an immediate ceasefire and to demand that all hostages are
released. The ICJ specifically called on Israel to ‘take immediate and
effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services
and humanitarian assistance.’<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">However,
within hours the USA, British and German governments and seven other states had
withdrawn funding from the United Nations agency – UNWRA – that is responsible
for providing essential services, food and water to the Palestinians. The
decision by these states is in response to claims by Israel that 12 UN
officials in Gaza – out of 13,000 - were involved in the Hamas attack on 7
October. António Guterres, the UN Secretary General has appealed for the 10 countries
to reconsider their decision. Two million Palestinians, already suffering
hunger, are to be penalised because of the alleged acts of 12 UN staff.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
week Sinn Féin is to table a motion in the Oireachtas calling on the Irish
government to join the South African case at the International Court of
Justice. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.15pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Finally, Mary
Lou McDonald and Michelle O’Neill have committed to raising the Israeli
genocide against the Palestinian people when they visit Washington in March. Mary
Lou and I discussed this issue at a public event in Cabra, in her Dublin
constituency last Friday evening. I was asked about some calls on the party to
boycott the US St. Patrick’s visit. I pointed out that t</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">hose calling on us not to go to the USA are not calling on us to not
talk to the British. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sensible people
know that dialogue is the only means by which this or any issue of conflict can
be resolved. Our bridge into the USA is Irish America. St. Patrick’s Day is
Ireland’s national day. Boycotting this and denying ourselves the opportunity
to advance our struggle or indeed the struggle of the people of Palestine would
be a mistake.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sinn Féin disagrees with the USA administration on many issues,
particularly foreign policy issues. We have always made that clear. When I met President
Clinton in the 1990s I told him the US embargo on Cuba was wrong. I told George
W Bush that his policy on Iraq and Afghanistan was wrong. I remember Martin and
I urging Tony Blair not to invade Iraq. We told him it would be the biggest
mistake of his leadership. We have a responsibility to raise these issues and
Mary Lou and Michelle will be equally forthright with those they meet in March
about US support for Israel’s war on the Palestinian people.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">People in struggle, particularly people involved in national liberation
struggles, understand that your own struggle … has to be your primary focus. They
will expect you to raise their issues, and we should. They will expect you to
stand with them, and we should and will. But they would not expect us to do
anything– any more than we would expect them to do anything – which would set
back our own struggle or make space for those who are opposed to us. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhvhe7yq0p-Bh-VTlfRW-sjmHyAJg-XHok6-YOSAf-SFZs5oEYgwsG8_I3n2w4bB_-cl1ysbgWRo037YK2mxRdTa578_55j3HMPesm77WXM1Olf1XLZVTB5ghMOX4l7M_fEN32IgDAhnvT3sREwdaVjoIrhkpiirJg2hKwza8x6xpN8x5NM67iZFiTn8/s3816/Aras%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3816" data-original-width="2554" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhvhe7yq0p-Bh-VTlfRW-sjmHyAJg-XHok6-YOSAf-SFZs5oEYgwsG8_I3n2w4bB_-cl1ysbgWRo037YK2mxRdTa578_55j3HMPesm77WXM1Olf1XLZVTB5ghMOX4l7M_fEN32IgDAhnvT3sREwdaVjoIrhkpiirJg2hKwza8x6xpN8x5NM67iZFiTn8/s320/Aras%20.jpg" width="214" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Áras Uí Chonghaile – A world class visitor centre <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Áras Uí
Chonghaile – the James Connolly Visitor Centre on the Falls Road – was formally
opened by Uachtarán Michael D Higgins in April 2019. The Áras celebrates the
life and times of James Connolly, the key role he played in Irish history, the
struggle for freedom and the Labour Movement. It be a world class visitor
centre exploring the life of Connolly; with a unique interactive exhibition; a
library of writings by and about Connolly; historical objects relating to
Connolly, and an all year round programme of engagement with communities,
schools and visitors and a bialann. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Last week the Áras received the
Bronze award for sustainability and environmentally-friendly practice by Green
Tourism. It joins the prestigious award from the Royal Society of Ulster
Architects that it won two years ago as building of the year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Last week Áras Uí Chonghaile
also announced its Clár an Earraigh – its spring programme of debates and
discussions for the next three months. It is an excellent programme that
includes a lecture on Mike Quill, one of America’s best known and most respect
trade union leaders who as an IRA Volunteer fought in the Civil War before
travelling to the USA; Winifred Carney who was in the GPO during Easter Week
1916; and The Future of the Irish Language. Takura Donald Makoni who is Policy
Officer for the African and Caribbean Support Organisation will speak on
Inequity and Power in a post colonial world.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">It is an exciting programme.
Well worth a visit. The programme and information on membership is available at
https:arasuichonghaile.com. See you there.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-29588582847606046342024-01-21T22:40:00.002+00:002024-01-21T22:40:43.753+00:00 100 Days of Hell: 100 Days of Hell: The Fermanagh Blackbird<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">100
Days of Hell: </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpGM5zG1Z03Eqrgp8dlEE3tM74MlOoX515c0TkuO6Hh1g-bBNnI3eMATTu_jJqUgISgnWkOJmkheXjfIn-4vrLzPY26SKjZXOC5WjLUmUZuAHLRzRWsVgy1q1v93KwGdbTXOAwTriiyZZMbrhWiePwUPBy8gydrSa60oeQ8MRmR7szYv2Z-kx7U_JxyM/s3102/Mary%20Lou%20in%20London%20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2327" data-original-width="3102" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpGM5zG1Z03Eqrgp8dlEE3tM74MlOoX515c0TkuO6Hh1g-bBNnI3eMATTu_jJqUgISgnWkOJmkheXjfIn-4vrLzPY26SKjZXOC5WjLUmUZuAHLRzRWsVgy1q1v93KwGdbTXOAwTriiyZZMbrhWiePwUPBy8gydrSa60oeQ8MRmR7szYv2Z-kx7U_JxyM/s320/Mary%20Lou%20in%20London%20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Israel’s
genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the west Bank passed the
100 day mark last week. <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 17.3333px;">By the time this column is published the number of dead at the hands of Israel’s war machine is likely to have passed 25,000, mostly women and children. That’s almost equivalent to the entire population of Newry wiped out.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the same time almost two million Palestinians have been forcibly displaced.
That is comparable to the population of the North forced from their homes while
every hospital, school, university and most homes is destroyed. Oxfam has
concluded that the daily death toll of civilians in Gaza is greater than any
other major conflict in the last quarter of a century.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the weekend and across the world, in more than 120 cities – including Belfast,
Cork and Dublin - millions gathered in a global day of action to demand a
ceasefire and an end to the Israeli genocide. The protests also criticised the
military strikes by the British and US governments on Yemen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Last week
the South African government led the international demand for peace by taking
the Israeli state to the International Court of Justice at the Hague. More than
50 countries are supporting the South African initiative. To its shame the
Irish government, which supported a similar case being taken against Russia for
its invasion of Ukraine, has refused to join with South Africa.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> South
Africa lawyers presented an irresistible case against Israeli genocide. One of
its team of lawyers, Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC, gave the closing statement.
She told how Israel’s actions had coined a new and horrifying label WCNSFs
– Wounded Child No Surviving Family.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Ní
Ghrálaigh’s concluding remarks summarised the savagery of Israeli actions. She
said: “On average 247 Palestinians are being killed and are at risk of
being killed each day … They include 48 mothers each day, two every hour and
over 117 children each day, leaving UNICEF to call Israel’s actions a war on
children… The risk of famine will increase each day… Each day over 10
Palestinian children will have one or both legs amputated, many without
anaesthetic… Each day ambulances, hospitals and medics will continue to be
attacked and killed… Entire multigenerational families will be obliterated.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
International Court of Justice could take years to reach a final judgement
however it can make an emergency order against Israel’s continuing killing and
destruction in the Gaza Strip. That could take just weeks.
Consequently, Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh concluded by calling on
the Court to “indicate the provisional measures that are so urgently
required to prevent further irreparable harm to the Palestinian people in Gaza,
whose hopes — including for their very survival — are now vested in the Court.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoYXtP2AB_ov47rOJ6fwLHVabs1UlDeTowciqnB9vTvLxdlxT1WhjTevfS6YN83QQTo9M8BRoyCQbfOjsMdam2qNCKdXYATPZ4AbVUYvOLDkBViHuaOtavGtt2yH7zYpMRqHvlg9ypfGh2ZOfL2gp6w5TFuNAwP12-jqHWuS2n7ktERhMVunu5uujXg0/s960/Mary%20lou%20addresses%20London%20rally%20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 17.3333px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoYXtP2AB_ov47rOJ6fwLHVabs1UlDeTowciqnB9vTvLxdlxT1WhjTevfS6YN83QQTo9M8BRoyCQbfOjsMdam2qNCKdXYATPZ4AbVUYvOLDkBViHuaOtavGtt2yH7zYpMRqHvlg9ypfGh2ZOfL2gp6w5TFuNAwP12-jqHWuS2n7ktERhMVunu5uujXg0/s320/Mary%20lou%20addresses%20London%20rally%20.jpeg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Uachtarán
Mary Lou McDonald was in London last Saturday where she addressed several
hundred thousand protestors. She praised the South African initiative and
called for an end to the slaughter. She said: “We won’t stay quiet about
Israel’s apartheid. We won’t be silenced in the face of genocide – a genocide
that is broadcast every day for nearly one hundred days now…” For 100
days she said the mothers and fathers of Gaza have “wept an ocean of tears over
the still bodies of their dead children.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Mary Lou
said: “The world stands at a crossroads and there is a choice to be made. We
now demand human rights, justice, and the rule of law for Palestine, for Gaza,
for the West Bank.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Irish
Unity Summit for New York</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This
week the tickets became available for a major public event on Irish Unity to be
held in New York on 1<sup>st</sup> March. Billed as an ‘Irish Unity
Summit’ the event is jointly sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the
Brehon Law Society, Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, Friends of Sinn Féin USA,
Irish American Unity Conference, James Connolly Labor Coalition, Ladies Ancient
Order of Hibernians.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
‘Summit’ will be held in The Great Hall at Cooper Union. It will start at
1:00 pm on Friday 1<sup>st</sup> March and conclude at 6:00 pm. There will
be keynote speakers, panel discussions, and cultural performances.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyJosbQjtFh819Jl_kSuHc6AQ88SnNTrfNSDU4JLH7McBlzyGMkKKgwaBo92yXA9NS2P6z0Q8IhR5tmR1RJj_HNzNBml2IhHo31yc4T0V4fTBQE0dvKd16icQ5me_1vuDt68pcBX8oo5cb3h6y2zheR4A1-0cJeYNgZkq2NlhyXVDpkxblpRAvtbna-Y/s940/Save%20the%20Date%20Brendan%20O'Leary.png" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 17.3333px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyJosbQjtFh819Jl_kSuHc6AQ88SnNTrfNSDU4JLH7McBlzyGMkKKgwaBo92yXA9NS2P6z0Q8IhR5tmR1RJj_HNzNBml2IhHo31yc4T0V4fTBQE0dvKd16icQ5me_1vuDt68pcBX8oo5cb3h6y2zheR4A1-0cJeYNgZkq2NlhyXVDpkxblpRAvtbna-Y/s320/Save%20the%20Date%20Brendan%20O'Leary.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">So
far the programme will include Professor Brendan O’Leary (University of
Pennsylvania) in conversation with Meghan Stack (New York Times). Also speaking
will be Uachtarán Mary Lou McDonald TD; Niall Murphy (Human Rights Lawyer and
Ireland’s Future Board Member); Glenn Bradley (Former British Soldier, former
Ulster Unionist Party Officer, and member of Veterans for Peace); Ola
Majekodunmi (born in Lagos, Nigeria, Radio Presenter, Irish Language Activist
and member of Foras na Gaeilge); Sophie Colgan (Director of Navigating
New York, dedicated to connecting individuals and businesses in the Irish
diaspora in NYC) and Professor Christine Kinealy (Irish historian, author, and
founding director of Ireland's Great Hunger Institute at Quinnipiac
University).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
program will also include contributions from the Presidents of the sponsoring
bodies and bipartisan US political leaders. There will be live music and
spoken word contributions and performancesbetween speakers and panel
discussions. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you are interested in Irish Unity and live in the New York area I would urge
you to save the date and join the discussion on Irish Unity. I have no doubt it
will be a great event.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"><b>The
Fermanagh Blackbird</b></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Dónal O Connor and his family have made a long standing
and continuing contribution to Irish traditional music and song. Dónal is a
well known and respected musican, broadcaster and producer. We are all indebted
to and enriched by the work of the O Connor and Ní Uallacháin clanns. Because
of them and others like them the traditional music scene is alive and well.
Many songs and tunes which might have been lost have been retained or
recovered.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This is especially the case in Ulster. The song tradition
is particularly strong here. Renowned singers and collectors like Len Graham,
Paddy Tunney, Sarah Makem, Eddie Keenan, Pádraigín Ní Uallachaín, </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Grainne Holland, </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Davy Hammond, Albert Fry,
Prionsais MacAirt</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">, Seán Mc
Corry </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">and musicans like Davy Maguire, Neal Martin, Sean
Maguire, John Sherry, Cathal Hayden, the Diamonds, the
Vallelys, the Sands </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">and
McPeake families </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">and many many more have ensured that our indigenous
music is a part of every day life for many people. A living
tradition.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Every part of Ulster has lively circles of singers,
musicians, dancers and story tellers. These
are the custodians of our music. But they are
also teachers, whether formally through Comhaltas or Singing and Music
Clubs or informally in sessions across all parts of the North. Many of them
learned their songs from parents or grandparents and from the generations
before them. And they are passing it on to the next generation. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1eRsj5YtmHYzFj9ueYS5U4H6F4ySFCyo12htQaBaAPqTbYaTrPpGMnQVA_cZ6uVfbG4C4fT84xsOf9-p3I5eA7GvPgPT4tAt2F9ru5xzBLWtl3lpkADrmSCbsclW1r6TYPWF1Yj5SSdLPkOaDXaFM2K-Lv3Ssgvg2UFx_bkH1d_h8uBuFtn5invsnyg/s400/Gabriel-McArdle_cover_400x400_crop_center%202.webp" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 17.3333px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1eRsj5YtmHYzFj9ueYS5U4H6F4ySFCyo12htQaBaAPqTbYaTrPpGMnQVA_cZ6uVfbG4C4fT84xsOf9-p3I5eA7GvPgPT4tAt2F9ru5xzBLWtl3lpkADrmSCbsclW1r6TYPWF1Yj5SSdLPkOaDXaFM2K-Lv3Ssgvg2UFx_bkH1d_h8uBuFtn5invsnyg/s320/Gabriel-McArdle_cover_400x400_crop_center%202.webp" width="320" /></a>Number Gabriel McArdle among them. Gabriel, from
Kinawley in Fermanagh, is a singer and a concertina and
accordion player. Dónal O Connor has produced an album - <b>Gabriel
McArdle The Fermanagh Blackbird </b>- which showcases Gabriels
talents. It is a fine uplifting record of traditional songs and tunes which
capture Gabriels great traditional singing style and music playing. It is also
his first solo album, though hopefully not his last. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Gabriel</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">s singing is exquisite.
Clear, melodic and true to his dialect. Sweet and easy on the ear.
Érin Grá Mo Chroi is a gem of a song. So is Johnny and Molly. In fact there is
not a bad song in this collection. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The instrumentals are equally good. Many perhaps suited
to, and drawn from, the dance music of Ulster. I was particularly
taken by I Buried My Wife And Danced On Her Grave and The March Of The Clann
Maguire. So well done to all involved with this fine album. Particularly
Gabriel McArdle. It has been on the go for a year now so thank you An
tAthair Seos for my copy. It has given me hours of pleasure. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="http://www.redbox/" target="_blank"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">http://www.redbox</span></a><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> recording</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/gabriel.mcardle.1" target="_blank"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">http://www.facebook.com/gabriel.mcardle.1</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-45843476360033237232024-01-14T12:45:00.003+00:002024-01-14T12:45:30.029+00:00Death of a Hero: Kitson was amply rewarded for his foul deeds – in Ireland and elsewhere: Nollaig na mBan<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3Rt8sIKYHQSiHkeUc-XgHOk9jM0g9RMdOYCY4huYFSXVkuHgIkojQEDGzys2GuKrHBG6Frzj2Bi6p1YjTLBJEpmEaV4DnGTug6__XBPLM1ZYVZfkLNLC_KRxk2cEfybnUuFrfj4v9uwzF8Xgl8WdgvjVhtzjensiCKLmbqcCSKryqRLqPi90yZqRodo/s1170/Woolworths%20Country%202018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1170" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3Rt8sIKYHQSiHkeUc-XgHOk9jM0g9RMdOYCY4huYFSXVkuHgIkojQEDGzys2GuKrHBG6Frzj2Bi6p1YjTLBJEpmEaV4DnGTug6__XBPLM1ZYVZfkLNLC_KRxk2cEfybnUuFrfj4v9uwzF8Xgl8WdgvjVhtzjensiCKLmbqcCSKryqRLqPi90yZqRodo/s320/Woolworths%20Country%202018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Death of a Hero</span></b></div><p></p>
<h1 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; font-weight: normal;">Just
before Christmas my colleague<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm;"> </span>Greg O'Loughlin,
the Executive Director of Friends of Sinn Féin in the USA , gave me
the sad news that </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">veteran American Civil Rights leader </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; font-weight: normal;">King Hollands had died. I had the honour of meeting King
and his fellow activists Rip Patton and Richard Dinkins during a visit to
Nashville in November 2018.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; font-weight: normal;">I was
there to speak in the Civil Rights Room in the Nashville Public Library
along with King on the connections between the Civil Rights Movement in the USA
and the Civil Rights Association in Ireland in the 1960s.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">King and Rip had participated in
the famous Woolworths Lunchtime sit-ins in 1960s. They were also Freedom
Riders. At that time black citizens were banned by the draconian segregation
laws from sitting at Whites Only lunch counters. They were also segregated on
public transport - confined to the Back of The Bus. When this legislation ended
there was violent opposition by white racists to the integration of the
interstate transport system. So some courageous women and men, black and white
– Freedom Riders – took to the buses and trains to challenge segregation.
Many were beaten and hundreds were imprisoned.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjODfQZOoqbqeax-U941XI6RCt8SJrfYj9Nt6zGRFSWGAxZmpUv5olc1EFWXIXfL6kmCz5N2GU1W3R8OyRGiwjC5rH1scepWC9jErIcQ1s6bi5fmYD2XTHQLXS92i6KnsyNx1zXsHqDxTspsYf0nP9wRfh3mehhmQmhe2U4sJmozv7AxFXlAM1_rQd2zmo/s691/King%20and%20Gerry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="649" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjODfQZOoqbqeax-U941XI6RCt8SJrfYj9Nt6zGRFSWGAxZmpUv5olc1EFWXIXfL6kmCz5N2GU1W3R8OyRGiwjC5rH1scepWC9jErIcQ1s6bi5fmYD2XTHQLXS92i6KnsyNx1zXsHqDxTspsYf0nP9wRfh3mehhmQmhe2U4sJmozv7AxFXlAM1_rQd2zmo/s320/King%20and%20Gerry.jpg" width="301" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><i><b> Mise agus King Hollands</b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">While in Nashville I visited the
Woolworths building where they did sit-ins, with Rip and King, and with
Judge Richard Dinkins, another veteran of those days. We sat at the lunch
counter where almost 60 years ago African American citizens were attacked. They
recounted their experiences of those days, including arrests and assaults,
before we sang ‘We shall overcome’ to our surprised guests.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The death of King
Hollands is a huge loss to his family and friends. And to the struggle for
rights. I enjoyed his company. And his singing. And celebrate his courage. Go
ndeanfaidh Dia trocaire air. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2Job6tYQpc374C3HrKykQzldLCdiP2c7Yqa6lQWSlZatWaemlD2AWiEi0ze8nttuztmpttNkJfFHXltoj2NGV-vLuqgZsesIBj8Z6YlhzPQx8S7h_ZQ6X0vqS2Giv1coZ8zqIap_pzkRdf7PTcX5f-rzimF_MNqZNG32KlYVf9Bd08yJ6ZBeOm6_VbA/s1170/Woolworths%20counter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1170" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2Job6tYQpc374C3HrKykQzldLCdiP2c7Yqa6lQWSlZatWaemlD2AWiEi0ze8nttuztmpttNkJfFHXltoj2NGV-vLuqgZsesIBj8Z6YlhzPQx8S7h_ZQ6X0vqS2Giv1coZ8zqIap_pzkRdf7PTcX5f-rzimF_MNqZNG32KlYVf9Bd08yJ6ZBeOm6_VbA/s320/Woolworths%20counter.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></p><h1 class="article-header-title" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">Kitson was amply rewarded for his foul deeds – in Ireland and elsewhere</span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Richard has insisted that I write a
little bit about the death of Frank Kitson. Kitson, British Army general and
leading advocate of counter-insurgency operations and collusion between state
forces and death squads died last week. I have written about him many times. I
am sure his death will be mourned by those within the British system whom he
served over many decades in defence of the Empire. He was rewarded with medals,
a knighthood, and military promotions. He was for a time Commander in Chief of
the UK Land Forces and from 1982 to 1985 he </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">was </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aide-de-Camp_General" target="_blank" title="Aide-de-Camp General"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Aide-de-Camp General</span></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> to the British Queen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Few if any of his many
victims who were tortured, imprisoned, killed by his counter-gangs and
collusion strategies, whether in the North or in Malaya, Kenya, Aden or Cyprus,
will shed tears at his passing. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">After the Second World
War Britain fought over 50 colonial wars in defence of its Empire. Kitson
fought in some of these and his damaging influence was felt in others. He
fought in Malaya but it was in Kenya in the 1950s that he came to prominence.
The dehumanisation of the native Kenyan people reached new levels of racism and
barbarity at that time. They were labeled animals, barbarians and vermin. Tens
of thousands ended up in over 100 detention camps. Many of the men were
castrated using pliers. Men and women were raped, sometimes using blunt
instruments like bottles and rifle barrels. Others were mutilated by prison guards
and British Army officers. Some had fingers and ears sliced off. Others were
burned to death.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Kitson established counter-gangs.
The groups were made up of British soldiers, including Kitson on occasion, and
former members of those fighting against British rule. They travelled the
countryside killing, maiming, interrogating and torturing. One particular
technique Kitson introduced involved using ‘hooded’ agents/informers to
identify those who were then sent to the camps for torture.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The result of all this was
that 30,000 Kenyans were killed; one and a half million were interned;
torture was commonplace and 1090 were hanged using a portable gallows.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Kitson honed his skills in other
colonial conflicts including Aden and Cyprus and Oman. Consequently, when the
British Army were deployed in Derry and Belfast in August 1969 many within its
ranks had served in these conflict zones and brought with them the brutal
techniques they had learned.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Kitson joined them in 1970 as
Commander in Belfast of the 39<sup>th</sup> Brigade area. He immediately
began implementing his strategies. In the autumn of 1971 the British Army
created a new unionist paramilitary organisation – the Ulster Defence
Association – out of many small neighbourhood vigilante loyalist groups.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Kitson believed that to win
against a guerrilla enemy which had the support of its community or at the very
least a significant proportion of its community, the government, the law, the
judiciary and the media all had to be reshaped and moulded by government to
suit the aim of defeating the enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">It was about controlling
the population; using counter-gangs (death squads) to coerce it; establishing
special units and employing psyops (psychological operations) and media
manipulation. Kitson rationalised the use of death squads and the corruption of
justice: <i>‘Everything done by a government and its agents in combating
insurgency must be legitimate. But this does not mean that the government must
work within exactly the same set of laws during an emergency as existed
beforehand. The law should be used as just another weapon in the government’s
arsenal, in which case it becomes little more than a propaganda cover for the
disposal of unwanted members of the public.’</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">While Kitson was based
in Belfast he was responsible for establishing the Military Reaction Force
(MRF). It sought to stoke sectarian conflict by killing Catholics. In addition
1 Para was also based in Palace Barracks in Holywood where Kitson also
resided. He encouraged the Paras to be violent and brutal in their actions. The
Paras were known as ‘Kitson’s private army.’<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">The Parachute Regiment
was responsible for the Ballymurphy Massacre and Bloody Sunday in
Derry. When the Paras killed 14 people in Derry the adjutant of 1 Para was
Michael Jackson. He subsequently produced in his own handwriting the ‘shot
list’ which claimed that all of the victims had guns or bombs. Like Kitson he
rose to the top of the British Army.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Later Jackson described
his admiration for Kitson: “he was the sun around which the planets revolved … and
very much set the tone for the operation style in Belfast.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I know that those
who opposed British militarism by force in our own place, like the
freedom fighters in other parts of the globe, were also responsible for
inflicting hurt. I have never tried to disguise that and I regret the harm
done. Kitson was a failure. He never to my knowledge showed any concern for the
brutal policies he devised and implemented. His policies failed. They reflected
the will of the British establishment at that time. Kitson was their man.
</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">You
cannot begin to understand the conflict in Ireland or Kitson’s role in it
without setting it in the context of the English colonization of Ireland. Nor
can you understand the brutality and depravity that accompanied it without recognising
that the British Empire was built on a deep rooted racism, arrogance, and
intolerance that saw other peoples as less than human. Today’s genocide in Gaza
has its roots in this history. Millions died across the world as British
colonialism exploited them in the interests of profit.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Kitson was the epitome
of this imperialist and colonial aggression and he was amply rewarded for his
ruthless and cruel defence of that imperialism by successive British
governments.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nollaig na mBan</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nollaig na mBan - Women’s Christmas
or Little Christmas – was celebrated last Saturday. Traditionally, it’s
the last day of the Christmas period when the role of women who did all the
work preparing for and making Christmas a success for everyone else, was
celebrated. January the 6th was the day when they had the opportunity to
rest and celebrate. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">It’s also the day when the
Christmas tree and decorations are supposed to come down. Until recently the
celebration of Nollaig na mBan had declined. Thankfully that is now changing
and this old custom is being revived. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> Nowadays for many women
Nollaig na mBan has a much broader meaning. It is a celebration of the strength
of women. Of their right to equality and parity of esteem. Long may this
continue.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-43465637363667605512024-01-08T11:43:00.000+00:002024-01-08T11:43:01.536+00:00This Land is Your Land: Gaza: 2024 <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHMUfzt7as3HHLZoy9cA4FQuds24h3H7okwfYRTa2FDljTmCarlkLFdr5OtvwOzyWPGUM7yuolQW9M3t0Vsb0vPO5Nnun71Zaejt7GTK7v4C35eNVtezkzeESS_QJ0H-5ZEeow1RrIM2UpsuYJhPsPqfccIYNg0DYJqB6dRizyn7P0cVLfKdIQZG4vCE/s720/Woody%20Guthrie%20Songs%20and%20Art.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHMUfzt7as3HHLZoy9cA4FQuds24h3H7okwfYRTa2FDljTmCarlkLFdr5OtvwOzyWPGUM7yuolQW9M3t0Vsb0vPO5Nnun71Zaejt7GTK7v4C35eNVtezkzeESS_QJ0H-5ZEeow1RrIM2UpsuYJhPsPqfccIYNg0DYJqB6dRizyn7P0cVLfKdIQZG4vCE/s320/Woody%20Guthrie%20Songs%20and%20Art.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This Land Is Your Land. </span></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">I am a long time fan of Woody Guthrie. He is one of the worlds great song
writers in the English language and many of his words are as relevent
today as they were when he wrote them. He was also an American activist
who agitated and educated and sang for social equality, immigration
reform, peace and fairness. He stood against fascism, racism, war,
corruption and for a clean environment. He sang about love, for workers
rights and a better life for all. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">He also wrote a lot. I read his Bound For Glory book years ago as well as
his novel House of Earth. And now I am delighted to have a Christmas box
of a magnificent publication of Woody’s </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">‘</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Songs and Art </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">* </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Words and Wisdom</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> curated by his daughter Nora Guthrie and historian
Robert Santelli. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This is a large handsome reproduction of some of Woodys drawings, doodles,
scribbled thoughts, songs, poems and political observations on the back of
envelopes, scraps of paper, jotters and dairies. He obviously knew the
importance of these notes because he dates them and in many cases notes
where he is at the time. Woody travelled a lot. These tiny little details add
greatly to the readers enjoyment and knowledge. So do the many fine
photos. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> He also has lots of wisdom. Here he is on fascism. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">‘ …..all human beings (need) to come always closer and closer
together – to know and understand all races, creeds, and colours better; and
fascism says for us to split ourselves up into the thousand cliques and klans
and beat our own chains of slavery onto our ankles by wasting our strength
fighting our friend and neighbour – and allowing the fascists to nip us off one
by one, little by little, group by group……’ </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">He was equally opposed to racism. He had deep friendships with blues
musicians Lead Belly and Sonny Terry and Brownie Magee who he toured with in
the 1950s. He challenged racism head on. They were often attacked by
the Klu Kluk Klan. They stood up to their attackers. And they played
their music. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">And Woodys song</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">s are still sung today. He
wrote thousands of songs. We are very lucky that recording by him of
some of these are still available. Many of his better known songs have been
covered by Irish singers. They include Deportees, Pretty Boy Floyd, The Ludlow
Massacre, Jesus Christ and many more. Bob Dylan also recorded Woody songs. So
did Pete Seeger, Joan Baez and Bruce Springsteen, The Byrds, Grateful Dead,
Billy Bragg, Fergus O Hare, Willie Nelson and Ry Cooder. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This Land Is Your Land </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">is </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">an anthem and rallying call to working people. It </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">is perhaps his best known work. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Woody was also a poet, a painter,
illustrator, novelist, journal keeper, and prolific letter writer.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Incidentally</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">,</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> Woody Guthrie</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">’s ‘</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Songs and Art</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> * </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Words and </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Wisdom’ </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">includes notes by Woody on how to write songs.
It also contains contributions by other singers, artists and
writers. What more could you want? </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Woody Guthrie </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">‘</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Songs and Art</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> *</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> Words and </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Wisdom’ is p</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ublished by Chronicle
Books. </span><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/" target="_blank"><span lang="GA" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">www.chroniclebooks.com</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Gaza</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This column has published this wee poem before. I
wrote it in Gaza City fourteen years ago. Before it was as terrible as it is
now. It’s time to reprint this short verse aris.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Gaza</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Rubble on rubble</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Twisted metal</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">And Ghosts</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Everywhere</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Ghosts of little children</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Playing in the ruins</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Little ghosts</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Páistí bochta</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Laughing</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Shouting</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Crying</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">And dying in Gaza.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">2024</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Best wishes and blessings to you all in 2024.
2024 is shaping up to be a decisive year that will determine the political
direction of travel for this island for the next ten years, and possibly even
longer.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The many challenges facing all of us are enormous
but so too are the substantial opportunities for change and progress.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">First up will be whether the DUP is prepared to
end its damaging refusal to participate in the power sharing institutions. The
excuse that its negotiations with the British government on the Windsor
Framework and the Brexit mess are still ongoing is now patently absurd. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The
decision for Jeffrey Donaldson will be brought to a conclusion in the next wee
while. The outworking of that decision - whatever it is - will close down
another option for unreconstructed unionism. Meantime the rest of us will
continue the process of change. That includes constitutional change. The
social and economic interests of the people of the North have never been best
served by London. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The
speculation is rife that the British PM Rishi Sunak will go for a May general
election. A crystal ball is not needed to know that the Tories face a
significant loss of seats in the local government elections in England and
Wales on 2 May. A general election with its higher turnout might salvage some
of these but whether the British general election is in May or October the
Conservatives are headed for defeat. The next government in London will be a
Labour government. Let’s not hold our breath waiting for that. With a few
notable exceptions British Labour has not served Ireland well. It never will
until it implements the Good Friday Agreement provision for a referendum on the
Union.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In
the South there will be local government elections in June and elections to the
European Parliament on the same day. These will be a crucial test for all of
the parties as they prepare for the general election in that jurisdiction which
could be held before the end of the year.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In
recent days Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has been setting out his vision for the next
five years – more of the same. A Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, Green Party government
with the leaders carving up the ministerial posts as Varadkar and Micheál
Martin play tweedle dee and tweedle dum over the role of Taoiseach.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">For
the first time there is the real possibility of a government without either of
them. Successive elections over the last decade have witnessed the consistent
growth in the Sinn Féin vote. In 2020 it emerged with the greater share of
first preference votes. The party is now the largest in the Oireachtas. As Mary
Lou wisely put it her aim is to deliver real change with a fresh government
that will have neither of these parties in it. It’s a doable project. But, of
course it will depend on the voters.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Clearly
there is huge disenchantment with the policies of the current government. Many
people want change. But they want more than just the language of change. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So
the challenge for Sinn Féin is to present and deliver a new vision of the new
Ireland that a Sinn Féin government will seek to construct. That means clear
policies on the economy, on housing, on health and mental health, on the
environment, on investment in and the transformation of education and childcare
and supports for carers. A programme for change that has fairness and equality
at its core. Much of this work is well underway.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But
it especially means for the oldest Republican party on this island that there
is an onus on us to map out the kind of United Ireland we are for – inclusive,
with equality at the heart of policy making and delivery, anti-sectarian,
pro-working family, standing up to the fascists and right wing who seek to whip
up violence and division, and defending the rights and entitlements of all
citizens.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Much progress has been made. But we need to do
more.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">An
Irish government has the political and diplomatic resources to advance all of
these propositions – if it has the political will. Irish governments have paid
lip service to a united Ireland. That has to change. 2024 can see that change.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-69095830520457505972024-01-02T00:20:00.001+00:002024-01-02T00:20:13.806+00:00 A Boy named Jay: 2024 – Momentum toward Unity Polls set to increase: A New Year Wish<p> <b><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">A
B</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">oy named Jay</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I
did a book signing for Christmas at An Fhuiseog’s stand in the Kennedy Centre.
It was a pleasant hour of banter and craic, meeting old friends and making new
ones. Gerry Kelly was there just before me but he escaped when I arrived. So it
was just me and the punters. And RG and Maggie who was selling all matter of
gifts for An Fhuiseog. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The
book buyers were a mixed bunch. Grannies and Grandas as well as young couples
or lone shoppers. Mostly locals with a few stragglers from out of town.
From Tyrone and Tandragee, Kilrea and Dublin, two sisters from Australia,
relatives of the late Albert Fry, Gael and renowned singer í nGaeilge. Some
Newry neuks and a family from Dundalk. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There
were even folks from North Belfast. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Everyone
was in good form, including the wheel chair warriors and walking stick users.
There was an epidemic of young people. Selfie aficionados. The
Tic Toc generation. Full of craic.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And
there was a boy named Jay. I noticed him hovering shyly around the table where
I was seated. A dark haired neatly dressed young fellah on his own. Eventually
he approached our table.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">‘How
much is The Black Mountain book? He asked.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Twelve
quid’ I replied. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> He
was obviously disappointed. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘I
was going to get it for my Daddy for Christmas’.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘How
much have you got’? I asked.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> He
scooped a handful of coins out of his pocket. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘
Six pounds and fifty pence’ he replied. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Give
me a fiver’ I said.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> He
hesitated.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘I
have to get my lunch’ he said. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> But
he wasnt being calculating. Or cynical. Merely thinking aloud innocently the
way young people do when they have options to consider. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Whats
your name?’ I asked.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Jay’
he said. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Wud
you be availible for negotiations at Hillsborough?’ I mused. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> ‘Give
the wee lad a book’ RG ordered me with a smile, the way he does when
he gets all bossy and assertive.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">S</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">o I did. Jay smiled
angelically at us as I signed his book. I hope his Daddy liked his present. Jay
is what Christmas is all about. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> A
happy new year to you and your Da and Mammy and all your family. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">2024 – Momentum toward Unity Polls set to increase</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">After weeks, months, of public and private
negotiations it is still not clear as 2023 draws to a close what the future of
the Executive and Assembly will be. The British government says it has delivered
its final word on the issue. The various party positions remain as they were.
We shall see what the New Year brings on this.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In the meantime, with or without the Northern
Assembly, what we can be certain of is that 2024 will see the momentum grow for
the unity referendum promised in the Good Friday Agreement. In addition, with a
general election in the South on the horizon, the issue of a Citizens’ Assembly
to discuss the future of Ireland will take on an increasing importance.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">2023 saw the conversation on constitutional change
gathering strength. The Sinn Féin Commission on the Future of Ireland concluded
the year with its 11th public initiative. This time in the Galway
Gaeltacht. There were also stalls at farming events, North and South, stalls at
Freshers day in the universities, and leaflets distributed everywhere.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Meetings are already planned for Fermanagh and West
Tyrone in February and initial conversations have begun about similar meetings
being held in the USA and Canada. Submissions to the Commission on the kind of
future you the reader would like can be sent to </span><a href="http://www.sinnfein.ie/futureofireland" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">www.sinnfein.ie/futureofireland</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br />
2023 also saw the emergence of a voices from the
Protestant/Unionist/Loyalist section of our people openly considering and in
some cases advocating, the merits of Irish unity. The year saw space being
created for people who think this way to participate in events held by the Sinn
Féin Commission. Events were also held by the New Ireland Group which
facilitated people from Protestant, Unionist and British backgrounds who
support maintaining the union with Britain having their say.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In the last year the Derry City & Strabane
District Council working group on Irish Unity initiated a consultation among
ratepayers on Irish unity. The first phase of this consultation resulted
in hundreds of submissions on the topic of Irish unity. There have been
Irish unity working groups set up in Belfast City Council, Newry, Mourne and
Down District Council, Mid Ulster Council and Donegal County Council.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The SDLP’s New Ireland Commission also held a
series of public events and the Irish News came out in support of a Citizens’
Assembly. Ireland’s Future worked hard during the year with public events
attracting people from the business community and academia, as well as a series
of meetings with political parties across the island. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On 15 June 2024 Ireland’s Future will be holding a
major conference – Pathway to Change – in the SSE Arena in Belfast. Among those
already committed to speak are Professor Brendan O’Leary, Jarlath Burns,
President of the GAA, Mary Lou McDonald TD, Ivana Bacik TD, John Alderdice,
David Adams, trade union leader Mick Lynch, Claire Hanna MP and Claire Mitchell
and many more. Tickets are already available and given that Ireland’s Future
past events have sold out now is the time to book. </span><a href="https://www.ticketmaster.ie/ireland-s-future-presents-pathway-to-change-belfast-15-06-2024/event/38005F42B36C13BC" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">https://www.ticketmaster.ie/ireland-s-future-presents-pathway-to-change-belfast-15-06-2024/event/38005F42B36C13BC</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In August An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar acknowledged
that we are now ‘on the path to unification’. He said that he believes “there
will be a United Ireland in my lifetime.” Responding Mary Lou McDonald urged
the Irish government to begin planning for that future. Leo Varadkar she said
has “correctly said that we’re on the path to Irish unity. The question and the
challenge now for him and for the government is what are they going to do about
that?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Throughout 2023 United Ireland activists have
been involved in walking for unity, swimming for unity and running for unity as
well as planting Crann na Saoirse – a freedom tree- in support of Irish Unity.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Gaels le Chéile too continues to attract growing
support from GAA grass root members. A packed hall during Féile an Phobail in
August heard a senior panel of Gaels articulate the importance being active on
the need for a Citizens’ Assembly. The panel included Antrim Gaels Jane Adams
and Paddy Cunningham, former Tipperary hurler Timmy Hammersley, Kerry native
and former Offaly senior football manager Stephen Wallace, Margaret Flynn of
O’Donovan Rossa and Niamh McElduff Carrickmore footballer. Jarlath Burns
President Elect of the GAA was in the audience.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Mary Lou McDonald speaking at Sinn Féin’s Ard Fheis
in November said that this is the time for our generation to write the next
chapter on unity – to build a new Ireland. She said: “Government must plan for
democratic constitutional change. That means a Citizens Assembly on unity. The
day is coming when everyone on this island will have their say in referendums.
Each vote counting equally, no vetoes, no shifting of the goal posts. Momentum
is building, the conversation is live, history is happening now. Irish Unity is
the very best opportunity for the future. In the words of Rita O’Hare, “We must
keep going. A United Ireland <br />
lies ahead”.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So, 2023 was a very busy year. Lots of
activism. 2024 is already shaping up to be even busier. So, join the campaigns
for a Citizens’ Assembly and for the unity referendums. Have your say on the
future and help shape the new Ireland.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">A New Year
Wish</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Bliain Úr Faoi Mhaise Daoibhse Go Leir.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I received </span><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">this verse in a Christmas card. Very appropriate.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Our New Year Wish</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Peace and justice where life is hell;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Gaza, the West Bank and Israel,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Russia, Ukraine and Afghanistan,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In South Sudan and Pakistan,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Myanmar, Mali and Somalia,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Yemen, Chad and Ethiopia,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Cameron, Darfur and Syria<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Mozambique, Congo and Libya<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In Lebanon, Kosovo and Iraq,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And especially, Nagorno Karabakh<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">(The last is personal, as you may know,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">For family there, a desperate blow)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This list goes on; in this cruel time<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Hope and history do not rhyme.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">But wars must end and fighting cease.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Witness today, Ireland at peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So friends and family, far and near,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Do not despair of the coming year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-80347659427196486212024-01-02T00:18:00.000+00:002024-01-02T00:18:02.199+00:00A Christmas Gift: Journalists under attack by Israel: Defend Irish neutrality<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJCkw8a5Exx8W0jDcACOQGKZ6Mti9BrkpnpFpIbrNG6SahddA5sbqXIn_U47PYG5l2C8A-81YOpyY-c2FBPoZ1CMlMcSgU_nsTN9xFqsXBmOqpsGoMfEMBZcjqZ4cZtouvxReLPdhx72cLHtnizCJSKrdBdSO4GXFU6mZFcMeQpJILRh81VPuqooo4nM/s1532/IMG_1117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJCkw8a5Exx8W0jDcACOQGKZ6Mti9BrkpnpFpIbrNG6SahddA5sbqXIn_U47PYG5l2C8A-81YOpyY-c2FBPoZ1CMlMcSgU_nsTN9xFqsXBmOqpsGoMfEMBZcjqZ4cZtouvxReLPdhx72cLHtnizCJSKrdBdSO4GXFU6mZFcMeQpJILRh81VPuqooo4nM/s320/IMG_1117.jpg" width="244" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">A Christmas
Gift</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br />
<br />
I am recommending this new </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">book </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> - Togáil Croí. Seán Mac Goill - </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">as a great </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Christmas</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> present </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">for</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> you dear reader and
for </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">someone you love. It is bilingual and very
accessible. Irish and English columns side by side, page by page. It is beautifully
designed, colourful and with many graphics and photos as befits a book
which celebrates the work of the people it is about. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán Mac Goill is one of that band of visionaries
and activists which gave us the new Bombay Street after the original Bombay
Street was destroyed in the 1969 pogroms, the urban Gaeltacht on Bóthar
Seoighe, Ballymurphy Enterprises, the Whiterock Industrial Estate, Garáiste an
Phobail and many other projects going back to the mid 1960s. It is also about
the Irish language </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">in </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">West Belfast and the wider cultural revolution
across the city. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">While Seán is singled out for special mention this
book is about all those who were involved and their pioneering families. It is
a tribute to the critical role played by</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> these </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Irish speaking visionaries and do- ers. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This book is about the structures for education,
employment, progress, and self help which they created despite fierce
opposition from an actively hostile unionist and British regime. It also draws
heavily on archival material from An Spás Dín in </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">the wonderful </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Coláiste Féirste in the Gaeltacht Quarter.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Have no doubts about their
achievements. This is </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">a hugely
successful group of progressive Irish men and women in </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">one of the </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> most ‘economically impoverished yet intellectually and culturally
rich areas in Ireland’. </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">They persisted. And they prevailed. And we all benefitted. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It also gently reminds us of the type of language
activism</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> which is </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> needed for the future</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">. The activism of Na h’abhair é. Dean é. Don’t talk about it. Do it. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> am a huge admirer of all the people celebrated in this very
important book. I am constantly inspired and encouraged by their example. Read
Togáil Croí and you will be inspired also. So will whoever is lucky to
get </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">it from you in their
stocking </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">this Christmas. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Availible from An Ceath</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">rú</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> P</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">ó</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">ílí, An Culturlann. Bothar na
bhFál, Belfast.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Journalists under attack by
Israel<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">For as far back as I can remember
the phrase ‘truth is the first casualty of war’ has been used when wars are analysed.
The phrase is very old. The first time we know it was used was by Greek
soldier, poet, and playwright Aeschylus in the fifth century BC who said: ‘In war,
truth is the first casualty.’ <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We Irish have long experience of
this. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: .1pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">During the decades of conflict in
our own place political censorship by the British and Irish governments and the
establishment media was widespread. But media manipulation goes back further. In
her exceptional book ‘Ireland – the Propaganda War’ Liz Curtis reminds us that
the arrival in the North of the BBC in 1926 saw that organisation institutionalise
a unionist ethos within its news coverage. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: .1pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Quoting from a BBC document in
1930 Liz Curtis wrote: The BBC Regional Service ‘reflects the sentiments of the
people who have always maintained unswerving loyalty to British ideals and to
British culture. Northern Ireland relies on broadcasting to strengthen its
common loyalties with Britain.’ There were of course exceptions within the BBC
and outside of it. There were journalists prepared to lift their heads above
the parapet to tell the truth. Fair play to them but they didn’t face what
today’s journalists in Palestine face on a daily basis.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: .1pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Israeli forces are systematically
trying to shut down the truth in a ruthless and methodical campaign of
assassination of journalists.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; letter-spacing: .1pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">At the weekend </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Al Jazeera journalist Samer
Abudaqa was killed. His colleague Wael Dahdouh was wounded. Only weeks ago four
members of Wael Dahdouh’s family, including his wife Amna, son aged 15, daughter
aged 7 and grandson aged 1 were killed. They were murdered when Israeli forces
blew up the house they were sheltering in. The house was in a neighbourhood
that the Israeli government said was a safe zone.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">The </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Committee to Protect Journalists reported at the
weekend that at least 64 journalists, most Palestinian, and media workers are
among the almost 20,000 killed by Israel forces so far. At least 13 others have
been injured and three journalists are reported missing. In addition, journalists
in the west Bank are routinely and savagely assaulted by Israeli soldiers and
settlers. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The Israeli
government’s objective is to try and control the narrative – to excuse their
genocidal campaign against the people of Gaza but in particular children. They
also seek to keep on board those few governments who shamefully support turning
Gaza it into a graveyard for the innocent.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I
welcome the Irish government’s recent effort at last week’s EU summit, along
with </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Spain, Malta and Belgium, to persuade the EU
to adopt the demand for a humanitarian ceasefire. According to An Taoiseach Leo
Varadkar, ‘</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; letter-spacing: -.15pt;">The position of the overwhelming majority of the EU
countries now is that there should be a ceasefire.’ However the summit </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">failed to reach agreement. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">This Monday will be
Christmas Day. There is little prospect of the slaughter stopping. But if it is
it will be for a pause. That is not acceptable. The deliberate and callous
shooting dead of two Christian women –</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Nahida Khalil Anton and her daughter Samar as they
walked to a convent of nuns in the compound of the Holy Family Parish - the
shooting dead of three Israeli hostages by Israeli soldiers, and the use of a
bulldozer to crush Palestinians seeking refuge at Kamal Adwan Hospital, adds to
the abundant evidence that Gaza is a killing field for the Israeli government.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">This weekend
as we celebrate and reflect on the Christmas story let us applaud those
journalists under threat every second of every day in Gaza and the west Bank
and recommit ourselves to the enormous solidarity campaign for the Palestinian
people that has seen many millions across the world declare – We are all
Palestinians Now.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Defend Irish neutrality<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">At a time when
significant wars are raging – Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Israel’s assault
and genocide against the Palestinian people, and in the Sudan and Sahel region
of Africa –and elsewhere, Irish neutrality has never been more important.
International tension and disputes between nations and within nations are not
new. The establishment of the United Nations after the Second World War created
a new paradigm – a new international structure to resolve conflicts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It has not
been easy. The system is not perfect. The recent use of the veto by the United
States government to block a ceasefire resolution for Gaza at the UN is
evidence of the fragility of the system. But the UN remains the best means for
resolving disputes. And Irish forces in peacekeeping missions make an enormous
and positive contribution to peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The announcement by Fianna Fáil leader and Tánaiste
Micheál Martin last month that the Irish government is to scrap the triple lock
system is a retrograde step. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The triple lock is a
mechanism which sets out the criteria for the involvement by 12 or more Irish
soldiers in peace missions overseas. For troops to be deployed requires that
the action is mandated by the United Nations; must be approved by the government
and then by the Dáil through a resolution.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This is not the first time that the future of the
triple lock or of neutrality has been raised. Fine Gael supported dumping the
triple lock two years ago but Fianna Fáil in its 2020 manifesto for the general
election said it would ‘fully maintain’ neutrality and the triple lock. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And therein lies the rub. Irish neutrality and the
triple lock are seen as political Siamese twins – inextricably linked. The
scrapping of the triple lock would dangerously undermine neutrality and open
the door for a future Irish government joining NATO – a decision Micheál Martin
has already said does not require a referendum but simply a decision of
government. Following the invasion of Ukraine Martin said: <span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">“We need to reflect on
military non-alignment in Ireland and our military neutrality.”</span><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Irish government is treading a dangerous path. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Neutrality
is and should remain the cornerstone of Irish Foreign Policy. It allows an
Irish government to play a positive role in the wider world, especially in
defence of human rights. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It shouldn’t be left to government politicians to
decide whether Irish soldiers are sent to fight wars for the big powers. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-58450814156266547002023-12-19T10:55:00.004+00:002023-12-19T10:55:48.257+00:00Words for Shane: The de-humanising of the Palestinians: Christmas Ceol<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Words for </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Shane</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Last Friday I travelled to Nenagh for the funeral
of Shane MacGowan. It was a sad and yet joyous event with family and friends
lifting their voices and their hearts as a succession of musicians played some
of Shane’s best known songs, including the exuberant Fairytale of New York, Cór
Cúil Aodha, including Seán O’Sé and Seán O’Riada’s son Peadar also did what
they do best.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I did a Reading at the mass and made a few remarks.
This is what I said:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">“Victoria asked me to say a few words. That’s what
Shane wanted.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Mo comhbrón leatsa agus leis bhur gclann go
h’airithe deirifiur Shane and a Athair, Siobhán agus Maurice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Go raibh maith agat an Athair Pat.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">My words are words of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Gratitude for Shane’s genius – for his songs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">His creativity and his attitude.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Gratitude for his humour and his intelligence and
his compassion.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Grateful for his vulnerability, his knowledge and
his modesty.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Gratitude for his celebration of the marginalised,
the poor, our exiles and underdogs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Grateful for the Pogues and all our music makers,
all our dreamers of dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Thankful to Shane’s carers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Proud of how Shane deepened our sense of Irishness
and our humanity.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Grateful for his rejections of the revisionism of
time serving fumblers in greasy tills.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Glad that he stood by the people of the North.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In war and in peace and that he was proud of
Tipperary’s fight for Irish freedom and his family’s role in this.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Thankful for his poet’s eye for words of love
and betrayal, justice and injustice, rejection and redemption.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Grateful that Shane lifted us out of ourselves and that
he never gave up.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Delighted that he empowered us to dance and sing,
to make fun and to shout and yell and laugh and cry and to love and to be free.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Ar laoch thú Shane.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Ar ghile mear.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Fíle, Ceoltóir, fear uásal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Your music will live forever.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">You are the measurer of our dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Go raibh maith agat Shane MacGowan.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The de-humanising of the Palestinians</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last Sunday was the 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It was a response to the horror
of the Second World War, and in particular the holocaust of European Jews and
murder of countless millions of trade unionists, gay people, socialists and
others the Nazi regime regarded as inferior. Its first sentence encapsulation
what many hoped would be the dawn of a new era – ‘All human beings are born
free and equal in dignity and rights.’<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That same year the Israeli state was born and
Palestinian hopes for their future died in the Nakba – the great catastrophe
when hundreds of thousands were evicted from their homes, forced into refugee campaigns
and thousands more killed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In the 75 tears since then the Israeli state has
breached successive United Nations resolutions. Its treatment of the
Palestinians, especially at this time, mimics what many suffered under fascism.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Today the propaganda battle being waged by the
Israel government in defence of its genocide in Gaza and its ethnic cleansing
of the west Bank, follows a predictable pattern used by colonial powers for
centuries, including the Nazis.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The French writer Jean-Paul Sarte wrote: “How can
an elite of usurpers, aware of their mediocrity, establish their privileges? By
one means only: debasing the colonised to exalt themselves, denying the title
of humanity to the natives, and defining them simply as absences of qualities –
animals, not humans. This does not prove hard to do, for the system deprives
them of everything.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">For centuries the Irish were depicted by the
British state as stupid, ape like, idle, work-shy, savage, not human. The 19<sup>th</sup> century
Irish leader Daniel O’Connell was described as “scum condensed of Irish bog.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The British state, its writers and publications
promoted a racist view of the Irish that excused the widespread imposition of
poverty and hunger. In 1846 The Times wrote: “For our own part we regard the
potato blight as a blessing. When the Celts once cease to be potatophagi, they
must become carnivorous. With the taste of meats will grow an appetite for them
… “<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">One English writer wrote in 1860 as he travelled in
Ireland: “I am haunted by the human chimpanzees I saw along that hundred miles
of horrible country … to see white chimpanzees is dreadful; they were black,
one would not see it so much, but their skins, except where tanned by exposure,
are as white as ours.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Treating other human beings as animals, and deserving
of no respect, makes it easy to slaughter them, to colonise and exploit them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In our own time British propaganda machine was
built on a strategy of merging all governmental structures; the judiciary,
the law, the police and the media, into one structure with the aim of defeating
republicans.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This meant policies of censorship and media
manipulation that perpetuated the decades of conflict. It reinforced the
conditions for division and violence. It deliberately covered up British state
violence, its torture of prisoners and its collusion with unionist death
squads. And it was a major obstacle to the necessary dialogue needed to chart a
course toward peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And so it is in the Israeli state’s prosecution of
a war they claim is against Hamas but is in fact against the Palestinian
people. The propaganda strategy used by British colonialism is at work in Gaza
and the west Bank. Israeli politicians label Palestinians as ‘human animals.’
According to the Israeli Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Aryeh Yitzhak King they “aren’t
human beings and not human animals. They’re subhuman and that’s how they should
be treated.” His solution? Use Bulldozers to “cover all these hundreds of
ants, while they're still alive.” He and others in the Israeli
state defend the denial of the basic necessities of life – food, water,
energy, medical care, shelter. Children are dying in their thousands from bombs
and snipers and are now starving from hunger.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Netanyahu’s government believes they don’t deserve
compassion. Palestinian journalists in Gaza are killed in their dozens.
Broadcasters from other states are refused entry by Israel and disseminate
their news from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem making it easier to control the
narrative. Occasionally some are allowed in as embedded journalists travelling
with Israeli forces. And we know how that worked in Iraq and Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">At a time when the media claims that the Israel government
is killing a greater proportion of civilians than in any other war in the last
100 years and prisoners are being killed in Israeli prisons, the failure
of many other governments to take a stand against Israel’s genocidal policy is
shameful. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights seems now just a distant
memory.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Christmas Ceol</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">If you are looking for musical stocking fillers
this column recommends two bits of ceol. First off is Fergus O Hare’s new CD –
Deep in my Heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Fergus is Belfast’s singing botanist, guitarist,
Gael, teacher, broadcaster, long time activist and full time wonderful human
being. He is in fine voice in this exceptional collection of his favourite
songs, including Victor Jara, Aird Uí Chuain and We Shall Overcome. Deep in my
Heart is available at An Ceathrú Póilí, An Cultúrlann, Bóthar na bhFál.
Belfast.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Next up is Piaras Ó Lorcáin. Piaras is representative
of today’s generation of young Irish singers. From South Armagh he is steeped
in the Gaelic traditions of the Oriel. An active member of Gaelphobal Ard Mhaca
Theas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Piaras has made his mark at Irish singing
competitions including this year’s under 35 Sean Nós Competition ar Oireachtas
na Samhna. Bláithín Mhic Cana who accompanies Piaras on this CD took third
place in the Women’s Sean Nós Competition.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Piaras has an exception singing voice wonderfully
suited to the five Irish language songs in this collection which includes Tá
‘na Lá and Gráinne. You will not be disappointed with this fine CD.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Available also at An Ceathrú Póilí, An
Cultúrlann. So make someone happy this Christmas. Give them ceol.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-13641930740115692752023-12-04T15:18:00.000+00:002023-12-04T15:18:47.594+00:00Where to for Loyalism?: Peace requires respect for Palestinian rights: The Far Right must be challenged<p><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Where to for Loyalism?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I have met many loyalists over a very long time. In prison. Out of
prison. In secret or in private talks going back to the 1970s. And many times
since then. I like to think that some of us became friends. Or at least we became
friendly. Some loyalist leaders played a crucial role in the negotiations which
led to the Good Friday Agreement. They deserve great credit for that. That was
then. Unfortunately some of those involved have died or are no longer
active. In other instances more progressive elements have been replaced by
a younger cohort, with little interest in politics or experience of prison or
conflict. Twenty five years after the Good Friday Agreement the main loyalist
organisations remain in existence. Why?</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Maybe for some it is a way of life. For others it is a
lucrative way of life especially for those who are involved in the illegal
drugs trade. In many cases it is impossible to distinguish between the
two. There is not even a pretense that they are interested in anything other
than racketeering, extortion, drug pushing and money making. But not all
loyalists are like that.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Incidentally, the scourge of illegal drugs is not confined to any
one section here. It is a huge problem also in other communities across this
island with some of the gangs involved flying ‘republican’ flags of
convenience and also cooperating with their ‘loyalist’ counterparts in criminal
activities. In my view this is a policing issue which requires a more urgent
and strategic focus by the PSNI and An Garda Síochána.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So what is loyalist paramilitarism about today? In the
past the main loyalist organisations were run as ‘counter gangs’ by British and
RUC Special Branch. In fact some were established or resurrected by British
Intelligence agencies. This is now a matter of public record. So is
collusion. There was also a crossover between membership of the old B Specials
and the Ulster Defence Regiment (UDR) and loyalist paramilitaries. The
main unionist political parties also maintained a close relationship with the
main loyalist paramilitaries. In fact the DUP set up its own paramilitary
groups including Ulster Resistance which went on to import arms from the
Apartheid regime in South Africa in 1988. To my knowledge Ulster Resistance has
never been properly investigated by our media nor did it engage with the
Commission responsible for putting weapons beyond use.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So why are loyalist paramilitaries still in existence? They
obviously still recruit. So too, it seems, do so called republican dissident
groups. Those who genuinely disagree with Sinn Féin should do the decent
thing and pursue their aims peacefully and politically. There is no reason for
armed groups to exist.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">For its part when the IRA formally ended its armed struggle in 2005 it
stopped recruiting and left the stage. Sinn Féin has effectively filled that
space and is the only republican movement nowadays. Sinn Féin is committed to
purely political modes if struggle. It also has widespread popular support.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Loyalist working class people have no such organization, even in
skeletal form to represent them. Since the death of David Ervine, the
loss of Billy Hutchinson’s seat in last year’s Council elections and the
resignation of Dawn Purvis some years ago there seems little chance of loyalism
organizing itself politically and separately from the main unionist parties.
This is despite their intense hostility towards in particular the DUP.
They freely vent against the way they have been used and abused in the
past. They give off about the failure – or refusal- of the main unionist
parties to secure services for deprived areas. And then they go off and
electioneer for the very same parties which exploit them in this way.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">At the same time there are individuals including former loyalist prisoners,
and some of the above, doing their best to improve conditions for
their communities, which like their working class republican
counterparts suffer greatly from disadvantage and poverty. In my
opinion these are decent people as much opposed to the drugs trade and wanting
better opportunities for young people as the rest of us.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There are numerous other activists in the civic and community sector,
across Belfast loyalist neighbourhoods, particularly the women’s sector,
with no paramilitary connections whatsoever, doing great work to tackle
sectarianism and inequality. There are also former loyalist prisoners,
alongside republicans, doing important work in Belfast’s so-called
interface areas to ease tensions especially at times of heightened difficulties.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Getting them to go beyond this is extremely difficult. Maybe they don’t
have the influence or the inclination at this time to do more. Maybe others
would make life too difficult for them.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">For our part those of us who are committed to the aim of uniting Protestants,
Catholics and Dissenters should not give up on our loyalist
neighbours. We can agree to disagree on the constitutional future of this
place while coo-operating on social and economic needs. That means
being avowedly anti-sectarian. At a personal level. At a community level. And
eventually at governmental level.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Peace requires respect for
Palestinian rights</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The four day ceasefire in Gaza and
the release of hostages, including Emily Hand the nine year old Irish/Israeli
child, was a welcome development. Every effort must now be made to ensure the
release of all hostages. But this must include those Palestinian hostages – now
numbering in their thousands and including many children – some of whom have
been interned by Israel for years.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The attacks by the Israeli army on
the families of Palestinian hostages is reprehensible. The occupation of
northern Gaza, the indiscriminate attacks on civilians, and the ongoing attacks
against Palestinian families on the west Bank is evidence of the Israeli government’s
determination to maintain its apartheid system. A Palestinian population almost
equivalent to the entire population of the North has been forcibly displaced as
refugees. Over 15,000 people are now believed to have been killed in Gaza and
almost half of these have been children. The dreadful images of broken bodies,
of shocked and wounded and orphaned children have moved millions around the
world to cry STOP to Israel’s genocidal slaughter of innocents.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The public claim by Israel that its
military objective in Gaza and the west Bank is to destroy Hamas and to provide
security for its future is false. Neither of these will be achieved.
Israel’s current strategy has strengthened Hamas support among
Palestinians. No one with any sense can believe that the last six weeks of
industrial level destruction in Gaza will have improved Israel’s security.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On the contrary Israel is becoming
increasingly isolated internationally. Around the world millions are on the
streets week after week demanding a permanent ceasefire and justice for the
Palestinian people. The EU political consensus is breaking down with some
government’s criticising Israel and others now openly advocating for
Palestinian statehood. Moreover, Israeli efforts to find allies among Arab
states, has taken a significant battering.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Thirty years ago – after the Oslo
Accords the Middle East peace process held out the real potential for a two
state settlement. As Seamus Heaney so wisely explained it in our own place in
1994 after the IRA cessation – it was a space in which hope can grow. That’s
what happened here. Against all the odds. Because there was leadership to
nurture the hope. But in the Middle East it was not to be. Successive Israeli
governments, and especially those led by Netanyahu, have deliberately
undermined that latent possibility choosing instead to expand its theft of
Palestinian land. They have institutionalised an apartheid system of control
and domination as inhumane and pervasive as that of South Africa. The desire
for an exclusively Zionist state from the Mediterranean to the Jordan has
become for many – but not all Israelis – the dominant aim of Zionism.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Whatever process of negotiations and
peace efforts emerge out of the current crisis it will only succeed if the
Zionist dispossession, occupation and apartheid regime is ended. National
self-determination and equality of opportunity and respect for the rights of
Palestinians - alongside the rights of their Israeli neighbours, has to
be the bedrock of any peace process.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Far Right must be challenged</span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The horrifying stabbing in Dublin
last week of three children and a woman from Gaelscoil Choláiste
Mhuire and the subsequent street violence was shocking. And the
bravery of those who tackled the attacker is to be commended. The
burning of Garda cars and buses and the looting of shops must
be condemned. But that is not enough. There are real questions about how
these events were handled and about the lack of resources, policing capacity
and intelligence. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The people of Dublin’s inner city are
decent people. The far right represents only a tiny fraction of the population.
But as in Europe and elsewhere they are a violent fraction eager to foment
division, promote disinformation, and encourage racism and hate. They must
be opposed, challenged at every opportunity. So, well done to all of those who
participated in the trade union sponsored rally at the GPO on Monday.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: bottom;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Those involved in the violence will
undoubtedly, as the Government has promised, face the full rigours of the law.
But a thorough investigation is also required of Garda handling of the events.
And a multi agency led strategy of social inclusion is also urgently needed so
that all of our young people have equality of opportunity. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-66832637477673166682023-12-03T23:02:00.000+00:002023-12-03T23:02:29.880+00:00Eileen Howell/St. Comgalls: Seán Harte - a fior Gael, republican and decent man: First Prize: Palestine<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJK4xDROEENNhXvcWGiIG2k_ipMgZlZhjmren2Z21AlQWO6R6Qh-xOgyDPtuDLf-JQx8KCi-w6tfrBzKOmkPjEYyR6jyeKOyk91wlAblcdGQSB4Ec2Hchw6sGX5ykOxCq44AsGxtfwZJaX9Eco20vhIdxvuYi_sbSlvXzi0I3I5W6nJPXD2b4ww8p8YM/s6957/Stephen%20Farnan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6957" data-original-width="3668" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJK4xDROEENNhXvcWGiIG2k_ipMgZlZhjmren2Z21AlQWO6R6Qh-xOgyDPtuDLf-JQx8KCi-w6tfrBzKOmkPjEYyR6jyeKOyk91wlAblcdGQSB4Ec2Hchw6sGX5ykOxCq44AsGxtfwZJaX9Eco20vhIdxvuYi_sbSlvXzi0I3I5W6nJPXD2b4ww8p8YM/s320/Stephen%20Farnan.jpg" width="169" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Going from strength to strength </span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Regular readers will know that Ionad Eileen
Howell/St. Comgall’s was formally opened in June by the US Economic Envoy Joe
Kennedy. It came after many years of fundraising, planning and hard work by all
involved – not least Eileen Howell who the centre is named after. The project
is designed to promote economic, educational, social and cultural benefits for
the people who live and work in the local area and to promote good relations
between communities. Ionad Eileen Howell joins Conway Mill and other
local projects in this important work. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last Friday the last unit in Saint Comgall’s was
formally opened by the Pat Finucane Centre, the human rights NGO named after
assassinated Human Rights Lawyer Pat Finucane. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The same week it was joint winner of the Community Award at the Aisling Awards.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It has been a busy five months for Ionad Eileen
Howell. The Director of the Project Gerry McConville told me of the many recent
events that have been held there and of the plans up to Christmas. Last week
the Falls Women’s Centre held their conference in the centre. In early
October a range of international experts from Ireland; the United States;
France; Switzerland and Canada attended the inaugural Acute Paediatrics
International Conference (APIC). In the same months <span style="letter-spacing: -.75pt;">Trade Unionists for a New Ireland (TUNUI) held a
two day conference there.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Among the many organisations
now using Ionad Eileen Howell is the Dept of Commerce; the Education Authority;
local mental health charities; the Department of Finance and a wide range of
community groups. The Fleming Fulton School use it each week for teenagers with
special needs </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">and the Shankill
Women’s Centre held a conference there last week. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Local businesses too are based in St. Comgall’s.
Among them is Stephen Farnan’s ‘We have it wrapped up’ a unique and innovative
blend of fresh designs in ceramics, wood, glass, aluminium and red earthenware
clay. So successful is the business, which showcases his work and that of other
great Irish makers/artists that Stephen recently opened a new shop on the
Lisburn Road in South Belfast. These join his other two outlets in Castle Court
and in Portstewart. His pottery is as busy as can be and his <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">studio in Ionad Eileen Howell is open each
day from 10am to 2.30pm. It’s well worth a visit. It you are interested in
seeing what they produce they can be found on Facebook at #wehaveitwrappedup.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Another business doing very
well is Elite Dance Design which currently sells uniquely designed Irish dance
costumes around the world. There is also a Global Shipping Company; an IT
software developing company and Féile an Phobail. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On the 1<sup>st</sup> December Artists
for Palestine will be holding an event organised by Féile. On 3
December there will be a Christmas Fair and two days later at 7pm on
5 December there will be a Christmas Concert with the Ulster Orchestra players,
St. Joseph’s PS Choir and the Black Mountain Choir.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">These are just a few of the
events taking place in Ionad Eileen Howell /St. Comgall’s. The success of the
centre is a tribute to Eileen - an outstanding leader - and to all
of those who have turned a derelict old school into a first class </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">community and business centre. Amazing.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán Harte - a fior Gael, republican and
decent man</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán Harte was a proud County Tyrone man – a native
of Loughmacrory - a GAA stalwart and long standing republican activist in
Canada where he was a board member of Friends of Sinn Féin. His death is a huge
loss to the Irish Republican and GAA communities in Canada but especially to
his family. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HE_yCQW6Wb3LPM3SOEm5cbl09erI63pyfWPNS_vsHE54Yv4VNG_PODIn2H0mPqJPtVyWgA_eOM8-U36vtjgB9yF92-_5YFPra0MNgf6iD2APA4J3ZisfigFVKPcn5_fXmYskDDpG9hOoBookxvXuWd-tTIW7kszS3sc447aY8vHo1E2baiDKHMkbxGE/s945/Sean%20Harte%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="534" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HE_yCQW6Wb3LPM3SOEm5cbl09erI63pyfWPNS_vsHE54Yv4VNG_PODIn2H0mPqJPtVyWgA_eOM8-U36vtjgB9yF92-_5YFPra0MNgf6iD2APA4J3ZisfigFVKPcn5_fXmYskDDpG9hOoBookxvXuWd-tTIW7kszS3sc447aY8vHo1E2baiDKHMkbxGE/s320/Sean%20Harte%20.jpg" width="181" /></a>Like many others I was deeply shocked at the start
of the month at the news of Sean’s death. I was unable to travel to his funeral
in Toronto but I did send a message of solidarity and sympathy to Noelle,
and Justin and Catherine. <i>“Seán fought hard to stay with you and
although it may not seem possible now I am sure your memories of him will
sustain you in these difficult times. That’s what Sean would like. Tá ar
croíthe briste libhse. No one knew Seán better than Noelle. No one had a better
Daddy than Catherine and Justin.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán was a Tyrone Minor Champion with Carrickmore
in 1972 and a founder member the Loughmacrory St Teresa’s Club. He lined out
with them in their first ever competitive match in 1973. Like many Irish people
over the centuries he decided to emigrate in search of a better life. He
travelled to Toronto but never forgot Tyrone and never stopped playing for and
being part of the growing GAA family in that huge country. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was a founder member of Club Tyrone which
invests in the GAA in his home country. Seán was the current secretary of the
Canadian County Committee and a former chairperson of the organisation. Over
many years he played a pivotal role in organising GAA tours of Canada.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDHvP-mlmMyEPsOPCzC-I9k2zXpltXPqCRMOLVQXDsnpOth3Wuie1kOAv0ivAsR0ZkUQHV1cV-3oh_B2__FiZtHlZ5fT_F-5mJB7vCWpSjK9C6KiseVrQ169VuWrkfv8QHW1DtKljfzf_memJoBw0a5YC_tpJQ5Tm_e_k3PRKJv_hXaqSAPnOZc99RZs/s1024/Se%C3%A1n%20Noelle%20and%20Martin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDHvP-mlmMyEPsOPCzC-I9k2zXpltXPqCRMOLVQXDsnpOth3Wuie1kOAv0ivAsR0ZkUQHV1cV-3oh_B2__FiZtHlZ5fT_F-5mJB7vCWpSjK9C6KiseVrQ169VuWrkfv8QHW1DtKljfzf_memJoBw0a5YC_tpJQ5Tm_e_k3PRKJv_hXaqSAPnOZc99RZs/s320/Se%C3%A1n%20Noelle%20and%20Martin.jpg" width="320" /></a>Sean was a decent man. He was always positive,
generous, good natured and deeply proud of his family. Their loss is all the
greater because of this. Ní beidh a leitheid aris ann. Sean never forgot where
he came from. He was Irish, Tyrone and Loughmacrory through and through.
Fittingly he was named Irishman of the Year in Canada for 2023. Tyrone GAA in
their statement on his death put it well: <i>“Although Seán spent
virtually all of a half-century in Canada, his was a stellar case of ‘the
man maybe leaving Tyrone, but Tyrone never leaving the man’."</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán was also a fior Gael. Steeped in Gaelic
games from boyhood and instrumental in expanding the Gaeldom in
Canada. He fell ill at the Toronto GAA Convention in October. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seán was a sound Irish Republican. He never
forgot his IRA brothers Gerard and Martin, executed along with Volunteer Brian
Mullin in 1988 by the SAS and the British Army near Drumnakilly in their
homeland. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Sean was a stalwart supporter of Irish freedom and
like his late brother Nishey and the Harte family he was a staunch
supporter of the peace process.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I want to extend my deepest sympathies and
condolences to Noelle, and Justin and Catherine and to all of his family
circle, as well as to the GAA in Ireland and Canada and finally to Friends of
Sinn Féin in Canada. We will all miss him. Thank you Sean for your
dedication and commitment. Mo comh bhrón le Noelle agus teaglach Sheáin.
Ba laoch Seán Harte.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%;">
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<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm; mso-table-anchor-horizontal: column; mso-table-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-table-left: left; mso-table-lspace: 2.25pt; mso-table-rspace: 2.25pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%;">
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSqgVGMNg8gca5Uk6QTdshoVLYXNOE3JzgO4IUXpU_QydJT4cbwoTS9UF2lrdBFclYOCUAdt4_jWJycOVjc9_TKxBIB2FyZDIG5xnGHdIzo2GcVr311qDeu7SYS05vp6xuezteMyeUx2nofesi7CCwN1-xVnPM0H1xXY4IGegqRzDC8FWjPL1Wnh40Jc/s1387/Leeper%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSqgVGMNg8gca5Uk6QTdshoVLYXNOE3JzgO4IUXpU_QydJT4cbwoTS9UF2lrdBFclYOCUAdt4_jWJycOVjc9_TKxBIB2FyZDIG5xnGHdIzo2GcVr311qDeu7SYS05vp6xuezteMyeUx2nofesi7CCwN1-xVnPM0H1xXY4IGegqRzDC8FWjPL1Wnh40Jc/s320/Leeper%20.jpg" width="270" /></a></b></div><b><br />First Prize</b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I rediscovered this certificate last week. I
was awarded it fifty years ago. It celebrates me winning the Leeper
category in the annual Long Kesh Cage Feis organised by the local Sinn Féin
Cumann. In our cage the Cumann was called after big Mundo or Eddie O’Rawe.
Eddie was an IRA Volunteer executed by the British Army after they captured
him down the Falls in Belfast, in April 1973. Eddie was a patriot and
a gentleman.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Mundo O’Rawe Sinn Féin Cumann organised
lots of activity behind the wire. Debates and discussions. And all kinds of
competitions. I was a very unlikely winner of the Leeper one. Incidentally,
it should be Leaper not Leeper but who cares. It’s one of a kind. Some
younger readers may wonder what a leeper is. In the Kesh the term was
generally used to describe someone with dubious hygiene habits. It was also
used to describe a place. For example his cell is leeping. It is probably
derived from jumping. That toilet is jumping. Meaning it is smelly and
unclean.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Bogging is another good word. It gave us the
term bogger. I won that title one year also. Just saying. My comrades
thought they were funny. I was neither leeping or bogging. I just didn’t
conform to their Doc Martens, shin high Wrangler and denim clad attire. Or
skin head hair styles. My hair was long. So was my beard. How
that amounts to me being a leeper is debateable. But I’m used to getting
blamed in the wrong. And I’m glad I rediscovered my certificate.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Palestine</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The awfulness of the Israeli State’s onslaught
on Gaza continues to shock people in Ireland and throughout the world. The
mobilisation of people everywhere is admirable. It is crucially important
that we do not stop our demand for a Ceasefire. That means Hamas as well as
Israeli forces. It means international law being applied. As this column
goes to print it appears there may be some positive news on the release of
hostages. If that happens it will be good. But much more is required. A
negotiated peace process is urgently needed allied to emergency aid for the
region. Ceasefire Now.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-91763795966982458302023-11-20T12:56:00.003+00:002023-11-20T12:56:43.550+00:00Fr. Alec Reid: Making Magic at the Ard Fheis<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyn-e2CO6ffsCZURDUZLqCeVRsDHu8NTGYxc7YXTWTRpU9S6PgunVQbgLHAaYDVxuK45OXj7E9lZ5dTHdD4aT9DhNcC0New6CJ7BvZJ77D9aQthsfQIsoHvpoYh1ZCagtY44YGxm2FjWmgIGDQ6JuQsGtHKUqq3Zb7zXO0zfnatzNCf-fEkT-ePyZOZY/s1473/Gerry%20with%20Sagart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1473" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyn-e2CO6ffsCZURDUZLqCeVRsDHu8NTGYxc7YXTWTRpU9S6PgunVQbgLHAaYDVxuK45OXj7E9lZ5dTHdD4aT9DhNcC0New6CJ7BvZJ77D9aQthsfQIsoHvpoYh1ZCagtY44YGxm2FjWmgIGDQ6JuQsGtHKUqq3Zb7zXO0zfnatzNCf-fEkT-ePyZOZY/s320/Gerry%20with%20Sagart.jpg" width="261" /></a><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Fr. Alec Reid</span></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Next Wednesday – 22 November –
will mark the tenth anniversary of the death of Father Alec Reid. It is a
matter of wonderment that a decade has passed since he left us. Students
of the Irish peace process will know that Alec was a central figure in our
search for peace. He and Fr. Des Wilson were key to the beginning of that
process. I won’t deal in this column with all the twists and turns of
those times or the stubborn refusal for decades of the establishments,
British and Irish, to embrace dialogue. Fr Alec and Des helped to change
that. And much more. This column reflects on some of Fr Alec’s qualities.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">First of all Alec was an innovator
and in many ways a free spirit. He was a priest so he believed in God but his
God was not a distant supreme force. His God was in everyone
and Alec believed that everyone deserved to be treated properly. In his
view the work of God – and therefore the work of the priest - was to be
among people upholding their rights. Fr Alec’s work with the Traveller Community
in Belfast was a great example of this. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was a friend to the people like
the Traveller families who were victimised. He also believed that
‘ordinary’ people had a great wealth of goodness, wisdom and experience.
Especially women. He developed this thinking and formed a view that the
Church’s attitude to women was wrong.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He believed the Holy Spirit works in
us all. “Do your best and don’t blame yourself. It will work out if you give it
100 percent. It’s over then to the Holy Spirit.” Having said that he was like a
terrier, never giving up. He found ways to engage with people in powerful
positions from Taoisigh, Ambassadors, senior Government and political leaders.
His work with John Hume was central to all that followed. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was also personally brave. His
presence on the streets in very dangerous times especially during the Battle of
the Funerals in the mid and late 80s is proof of that. Photos of tough
interactions between family, neighbours and comrades of Republican dead and the
RUC and the British Army, when the Church Hierarchy sided with the
oppressors, often feature Fr. Alec in the midst of the throng trying to calm
things down.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">His main peace-making principles are
based on the dignity of the human being and the right of everyone to be treated
properly and with respect – do onto others as you would do on to yourself.
And the primacy of dialogue. He was a good listener. And always
willing to reach out for advice from whoever he thought might be of help.
He also understood his role, especially the role of a go between. Many others
have made a mess of this by exaggerating their own role or the positions of
those they engage with. Their intentions were usually good intentions but there
are lots of do gooders who made matters worse and wasted peoples’ time. Fr Alec
kept everything tight and straight in his role as go between even though his
work was not confined to this.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwm7cB-fpp38uTwaE02byl1o4jkl5nhRtlQ7AAuFvYGVHS98wFvFtV-hYzhKBFpmAtGnC7AFsnJVHzZx0dbiknxkHJx9IFx1K39S9AYD50oLDsy-UPPaP-WWqkz-IuIn3uSS9Cp29mNG7_uIQ4L_EZpniV9bOMLtOKoDKHbZ9vMhEFKN7RoRTG8J072rE/s3576/Sagart%20Jim%20Tom%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2530" data-original-width="3576" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwm7cB-fpp38uTwaE02byl1o4jkl5nhRtlQ7AAuFvYGVHS98wFvFtV-hYzhKBFpmAtGnC7AFsnJVHzZx0dbiknxkHJx9IFx1K39S9AYD50oLDsy-UPPaP-WWqkz-IuIn3uSS9Cp29mNG7_uIQ4L_EZpniV9bOMLtOKoDKHbZ9vMhEFKN7RoRTG8J072rE/s320/Sagart%20Jim%20Tom%20.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He had a good sense of humour. He
liked people. He enjoyed company, particularly the relationships he built with
working people including working class loyalists and republicans. He loved
Gaelic games, especially hurling. He liked being out and about. He and I used
to walk together when his health allowed him. His roots were in Tipperary
– he played minor hurling there but he supported Dublin as well in the
football. The Rice brothers of Éire Óg were often called upon to get him Croke
Park tickets. He used to come to our house on Christmas Eve to enjoy the
craic and banter with our other festive visitors. He and Colette were good friends. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was very respectful about his
fellow priests although he skirted around them if they were slow or reluctant
or disapproving of his work. “Fr ….. is too holy.” He remarked to me one day by
way of explanation for the perceived shortcomings of a brother
priest </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He could also be very impatient at
the ‘great and the good’ and angry at their double standards. He was very
influenced by Fr. Des Wilson. Alec probably would not have survived as a
diocesan priest. The Redemptorists gave him space and ‘protection’ to do
his work. He tried to institutionalise this within the Order, particularly in
Clonard. So he was aware of the need to structure his work and for the church
leadership to face up to its responsibilities to fulfil its mission by dealing
with issues of justice, equality and rights. He became very aware of the
shortcomings of the Church and of its controlling nature and its leadership’s
subservient relationship with and as part of the establishment.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was proud to be a priest. The
scandals of child abuse wounded him greatly. He told me he missed not being
able to be in the company of children or to give a child a hug because of how
that might be misconstrued. But he always wore his clerical collar
publicly in defiance during those difficult times for good priests.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In our troubled world today his peace
making principles remain totally relevant. For sure we would not have
developed our peace process when we did without Father Alec. Go ndeanfaidh Dia
trocaire air.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgiBatm1A6P9jfXo8xJ4aY04c80m93Q5wfa_KF8uNPs7uHjHWKGs0POqKnug_wj8D7tgZX0fEqEdYEWlR9I1yTch37GAdH4IrAIwtbvS-dtpyU8j_5hpc1lo5Ud-eCeF5LBLt-uqtIp08VAMawpa7UczMBqkWIBj1nt794ACXMe526aodBDwD-12iNA0/s482/Palestinian%20Ambassador%20and%20GerryA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="482" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgiBatm1A6P9jfXo8xJ4aY04c80m93Q5wfa_KF8uNPs7uHjHWKGs0POqKnug_wj8D7tgZX0fEqEdYEWlR9I1yTch37GAdH4IrAIwtbvS-dtpyU8j_5hpc1lo5Ud-eCeF5LBLt-uqtIp08VAMawpa7UczMBqkWIBj1nt794ACXMe526aodBDwD-12iNA0/s320/Palestinian%20Ambassador%20and%20GerryA.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">The Palestinian Ambassador - <span style="color: #222222; letter-spacing: -0.2px;">Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Making
magic at the Ard Fheis</span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There have been Sinn Féin Ard
Fheiseanna that have had their special, magical moment that remains in the
memory years – even decades - later. Last weekend’s Ard Fheis in Athlone
produced two such moments. The first came just before 1pm on Saturday. Matt
Carthy TD - the party’s spokesperson on Foreign Affairs -
introduced the Palestinian Ambassador<span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> Dr
Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid.</span></span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">At the end of his remarks in which he
excoriated Israel for its <span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">countless
breaches of international law, brutal acts of oppression, annexation, apartheid
and ethnic cleansing Matt loudly chanted; “In our thousands and in our
millions, we are all Palestinians”. As he repeated this a second time it was
taken up by the hall. By the third time everyone was applauding and shouting;
“In our thousands and in our millions, we are all Palestinians.” For an
amazing moment the Ard Fheis was the heart and soul of Ireland reaching into
Gaza and the West Bank as we all welcomed the Ambassador. </span></span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; letter-spacing: -.15pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Later Mary Lou
gave one of the best ever Presidential speeches. With four major elections
likely this year she proclaimed, “</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We want
to build a new Ireland. A nation home for all. A unified nation of
confidence and compassion, talent and ingenuity, claiming our future, our
rightful place among the nations of the world. The Orange and Green
reconciled. No place for racism, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, sexism,
homophobia, transphobia, or sectarianism. Where there is no them - only
us. All of us who call Ireland home.”</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Mary Lou also spoke about the Israeli
state’s genocide of Palestinians.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">“The Palestinian people have a right
to their homeland,” she said… the Irish government should take the lead and
refer Israel to the International Criminal Court. And send the Israeli
Ambassador home… Israel must stop its slaughter in Gaza. Hamas must release all
hostages. Ceasefires must be called”.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In a speech that was riveting,
confident and empowering Mary Lou spoke of the need for change and of
transforming Ireland to resolve the housing crisis, resourcing health, tackling
the climate crisis, and much more. She called on the Irish government to
establish a Citizens’ Assembly on Unity.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And at a time when some British and
Unionist politicians are trying to rewrite the terms of the unity referendum in
the Good Friday Agreement Mary Lou said: “The day is coming when everyone on
this island will have their say in referendums. Each vote counting equally, no
vetoes, no shifting of the goal posts. Irish Unity is the very best opportunity
for the future. In the words of Rita O’Hare, “We must keep going. A United
Ireland lies ahead”. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Another magical moment. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-38692916801606155512023-11-17T15:01:00.001+00:002023-11-17T15:01:17.662+00:00The Unity Debate is growing: Ethnic Cleansing: Crann na Saoirse<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQ0gfnSMgVGw66BKwsgm1Eqo_aogqHH8UqIhI8BVWbGBp4MsbLzKx5WTM6lJtbRQQgBN4TX22lomC4rhLQyrUzDE9kUqtWt7ek7skSDkCDD2fxDPjjuFwGeXfR_K_bp9iRrjbfKlogStAOmTK6bqMgeDIaPJiwIlOgO1-U-a_orv_SJzoMGsl60nXglw/s1640/PHOTO-2023-11-02-15-13-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQ0gfnSMgVGw66BKwsgm1Eqo_aogqHH8UqIhI8BVWbGBp4MsbLzKx5WTM6lJtbRQQgBN4TX22lomC4rhLQyrUzDE9kUqtWt7ek7skSDkCDD2fxDPjjuFwGeXfR_K_bp9iRrjbfKlogStAOmTK6bqMgeDIaPJiwIlOgO1-U-a_orv_SJzoMGsl60nXglw/s320/PHOTO-2023-11-02-15-13-13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Unity
Debate is growing</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seven key
Irish-American organisations have announced an ‘Irish Unity Summit – For a New
and United Ireland’ to be held in New York on 1<sup>st</sup> March next
year. This major initiative – coming as it will just before St. Patrick’s Day
and the visit to the USA of political leaders from Ireland – is being organised
by the Ancient Order of Hibernians; the Brehon Law Societies of NYC and Nassau;
the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Long Island; Friends of Sinn Féin; Irish
American Unity Conference; the James Connolly Irish American Labor Coalition,
and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. More details on the format and
speakers will be announced by the organisers later. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On June 15 next
year Ireland’s Future will be holding a major conference – Pathway to Change -
in the SSE Arena in Belfast. Professor Brendan O’Leary, Claire Mitchel, Jarlath
Burns, Mary Lou McDonald and Claire Hanna are among speakers already confirmed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last week
Queen’s Human Rights academic and Ireland’s Future member Professor Colin
Harvey was the guest speaker at an event organised by the National Committee on
American Foreign Policy at Fordham University in New York. Speaking on the
theme, ‘A Pathway to a new Ireland’ Colin Harvey said: “In Ireland the evidence
of an increased focus on preparations for change is everywhere. The
constitutional conversation is moving into a much more detailed planning phase
and it is therefore essential that local and global voices for a new and united
Ireland are heard and listened to.” Professor Harvey told his audience that
there is a particular onus on the Irish government to facilitate the
preparations for unity. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhlntXKaDAEbANNlZe1Cm9Cu2sVTwrb86cbeVb8AzC38a02TdzQN2BhaGEbX7iCCe3UGEoKUm-CUfp-0VBbzRlXHsfOOXad_vntL90JVtIwlD7faPJx-VBg0z55gCLWZWtQoXgM4eIoXFNY_lPqXNYB4eS0Kk5-cCBClVh0A0w46sw3pdJxv2P0lrbLc/s1170/Colin%20Harvey%20with%20the%20Brehons%20in%20NYC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="1170" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhlntXKaDAEbANNlZe1Cm9Cu2sVTwrb86cbeVb8AzC38a02TdzQN2BhaGEbX7iCCe3UGEoKUm-CUfp-0VBbzRlXHsfOOXad_vntL90JVtIwlD7faPJx-VBg0z55gCLWZWtQoXgM4eIoXFNY_lPqXNYB4eS0Kk5-cCBClVh0A0w46sw3pdJxv2P0lrbLc/s320/Colin%20Harvey%20with%20the%20Brehons%20in%20NYC.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Later during
his visit Professor Harvey met with the Brehon Law Society. He told them that
he believes that </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">by the end of this decade there will
be a unity referendum. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last week also Ireland’s Future held
a packed business lunch in the Europa Hotel in Belfast. Over 300 people heard
former BBC journalist Gavin Esler speak of the potential for change. The former
editor of the Irish News Noel Doran also addressed the gathering.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And finally, t<span style="letter-spacing: -.75pt;">wo weeks ago Trade Unionists for a New Ireland (TUNUI) held a two day
conference in Belfast. It heard a range of speakers from Ireland and
internationally talk about the importance of constitutional change and of
social justice to any new Ireland.</span></span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The two-day event brought together
people from across the island and beyond with the aim of advancing
constitutional change. Among the speakers was SIPTU deputy general secretary
Gerry McCormack and Frank Connolly, author of<i> United Nation - The Case
for Integrating Ireland</i>.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Chair of TUNUI Seán McElhinney
said: " We believe that some of the worst aspects of social inequality and
socio-economic disadvantage facing working people can only be addressed
properly by changing how Ireland is governed - north and south … Constitutional
change gives us a unique opportunity to start building something better than
this, and we want to promote the importance of social justice in every
conversation about our future."</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Ethnic
Cleansing</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> By the time you read this
column the numbers of people killed in Gaza will have exceeded 10,000. Almost
half of these are children. Every minute, of every hour, of every day new
and dreadful images emerge from Palestine that horrify and shock.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This is not the first time that the
Palestinian people have faced ethnic cleansing. In 1948 the Nakba or
Catastrophe witnessed the ethnic cleansing of almost 80% of historic Palestine
by the newly established Israeli state. In the decades since then an Israeli
apartheid system has dehumanised and demonised the Palestinian people.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Palestinian people of Gaza and
the west Bank are facing a second Nakba. The settler and Israeli Army violence
in the west Bank, the deliberate attacks in Gaza on hospitals, schools, the
University, refugee camps, bakeries, ambulances and families and the cutting
off of fuel and food and water, is about forcing Palestinians into abandoning
Gaza. A recent Israeli report and public commentary by Israeli leaders have
acknowledged that Israel seeks the expulsion of all Palestinians from Gaza. An
Israeli Government minister Amichai Eliyahu has said nuking Gaza ‘is one
of the possibilities’ and in a remark reminiscent of ‘To Hell or Connacht’
that the Palestinians ‘can go to Ireland or deserts’. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Last week 200
academics on the island of Ireland united in demanding that Irish universities
cut ties with Israeli institutions “<span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">until
the occupation of Palestinian territory is ended, the Palestinian rights to
equality and self-determination are vindicated, and the right of Palestinian
refugees to return is facilitated.” They are right.</span></span><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 24.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.15pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Several days ago Mary Lou McDonald called on the Irish government and
international community to take action to enforce international law. She also
called for the Israeli Ambassador to lose her diplomatic status. Other states
have already broken diplomatic ties with Israel.</span><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 24.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-outline-level: 1;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.15pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">An immediate ceasefire and the infusion of substantial international aid
is now essential but we should be under no illusions. There can be no victors
through war in the Middle East. If the international community fails to stand
up for international standards and international law then what we have
witnessed in the last month will only be repeated in the future.</span><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> </span></b><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 24.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkjZ3oMFlODsbE7y6v_jfGK2BMQFo4MxkHlts-aFZGDLpsF7glOiF7MrP_NJrptPg8tV7GiutO20c05bBObNTJ84r21iIfTBJknNeVuE70qfMMYpOWf2G6ImqBrFSwRmU3WSJQ1HKdz-HKJKY64o5nkl5eGuyNhfnWEHJSDH5Y_wEUqZFTzJmTxOSyOg/s1312/International%20Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1312" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkjZ3oMFlODsbE7y6v_jfGK2BMQFo4MxkHlts-aFZGDLpsF7glOiF7MrP_NJrptPg8tV7GiutO20c05bBObNTJ84r21iIfTBJknNeVuE70qfMMYpOWf2G6ImqBrFSwRmU3WSJQ1HKdz-HKJKY64o5nkl5eGuyNhfnWEHJSDH5Y_wEUqZFTzJmTxOSyOg/s320/International%20Wall.jpg" width="285" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Crann Na Saoirse.</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This is tree planting time. Again.
Any month with an ‘R’ will do but it’s usually best between October and
March. But plant your wee baby trees well before or well after
the frost kicks in. I always try to do my planting in the Autumn so the tree
will have time to settle in before Spring. Container grown trees can be planted
at any time, though they too need protected from frost but I mostly
use bare root or wee slips grown from seed.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I collect the seeds, mainly chestnuts
and acorns from the Falls Park along with Rowan, Hazel, Hawthorn and
Birch. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Back in the day when our lives were
consumed with endless talks I gathered up seed from the great houses
of England, like Chequers, the back garden of 10 Downing
Street, Leeds Castle or back home at Hillsborough, Arbour Hill or the
Áras. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There are all kinds of little
processes and different soil, gravel or sand mixes which you can use for
bringing on your seeds but I’m a lazy gardener. I just put the seeds into
a pot of whatever loam I have to hand and let nature do its work. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">When the seeds have sprouted the
saplings can be kept in pots for years before planting out. Apart from chestnuts
I plant only native species. They are good for keeping the air clean. Good for
native insects. For native birds and other creatures. Good for the
climate and nature. Trees are also great presents. They can mark the
birth of a new baby or immortalise the memory of a fallen friend. Trees are
good for remembering the living and the dead. They are about the
future. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That is why Freedom Trees are
important. Crann Na Saoirse can be planted now in the knowledge that they
will grow tall in a free Ireland. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So why not plant your own Crann Na
Saoirse. Or if you have the space or access to public land or commonage, a
hill or mountain side - with permission- why not plant A Freedom
Forest? Even ten or twenty trees planted two metres apart will
look well once they get going. Is there space in your housing estate? Or your
farm? Your garden? Your sports ground. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Native trees are are also
good for biodiversity. No one could object to that. So get growing.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkcf4gl9njPGpyzVXLU0ZSApq02HD4J1sR6Ofp-_qnNkvRdFa0jxZ01203FzPtEmsGHjrm3fpr-oyv_u6yUql-Oau05mDUdXSMMo0Z0G5VSUpvfcRI-816uZjAgO8Frd5G_efCF6XrZw9CKv-shXAZsfTG9354wwRRRLdmSLGJasc5jUeTW9EYytBbfw/s1176/Crann%20na%20Saoirse.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1176" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkcf4gl9njPGpyzVXLU0ZSApq02HD4J1sR6Ofp-_qnNkvRdFa0jxZ01203FzPtEmsGHjrm3fpr-oyv_u6yUql-Oau05mDUdXSMMo0Z0G5VSUpvfcRI-816uZjAgO8Frd5G_efCF6XrZw9CKv-shXAZsfTG9354wwRRRLdmSLGJasc5jUeTW9EYytBbfw/s320/Crann%20na%20Saoirse.png" width="318" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-18906787011653166322023-11-06T10:32:00.000+00:002023-11-06T10:32:26.065+00:00Ceasefire Now; Wolfe Tone's Cordial Union:Pulse and Mickey Coleman<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Ceasefire Now</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">News from the Middle East continues to numb and
outrage and anger most people. But we cannot give up. We have a duty to the
people of Palestine to stay focussed on the demands to Stop the War - Support
Humanitarian Initiatives - Start Peace Talks. The people of Israel and
Palestine need the support of the international community. We are part of
that community. Let us find ways to get our leaders to uphold
international law. End the siege of Gaza. Free Palestine. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Wolfe
Tone’s Cordial Union </span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Last
week I attended an event in Parliament Buildings at Stormont, hosted by US
Special Economic Envoy Joe Kennedy. There was a panel discussion on the impact
of the Good Friday Agreement which involved myself, former DUP leader Peter
Robinson; former Alliance Assembly Speaker Eileen Bell; Lady Daphne Trimble,
President of the Ulster Unionist Party; and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan.
First Minister designate Michelle O’Neill, DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson and UUP
leader Doug Beattie were all present. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oUBjQeeH0KRHU_0l95YXUZxjhXJTRxKHMQGyW2aGvdhmwptpYJqM9CIj430ptJDfc1d5Q0z_GIKknGXruRjcrsHf4scCurYwwm7oA6_jh8OdG388Pg8bNgb7x5jATB911MDFYq2Q_9QzN-eKCmgiaoU_ye-lU0zLJl7qEtO5ffhs-zPaMFhAzcLIEQg/s1170/Panel%20photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1170" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oUBjQeeH0KRHU_0l95YXUZxjhXJTRxKHMQGyW2aGvdhmwptpYJqM9CIj430ptJDfc1d5Q0z_GIKknGXruRjcrsHf4scCurYwwm7oA6_jh8OdG388Pg8bNgb7x5jATB911MDFYq2Q_9QzN-eKCmgiaoU_ye-lU0zLJl7qEtO5ffhs-zPaMFhAzcLIEQg/s320/Panel%20photo.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">While
we each brought our own narrative of that time to the conversation it was
nonetheless a positive and forward looking engagement. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The
day before Jeffrey Donaldson said there would be no united Ireland in his
lifetime and that a United Ireland cannot accommodate his Britishness. I
disagree. The fact is that political and demographic changes in recent decades;
a growing disillusionment with the unionist parties; the Brexit debacle and the
growth of Sinn Féin have contributed to increasing interest in Irish Unity. It
is also important to recall that over 70% of people in the North and over 90%
in the South voted in May 1998 for an Agreement that provides for a unity
referendum and for a simple majority to determine the outcome. That provides
the democratic basis for future constitutional change.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxvSdYnbQdnCWs2GcfShG2PxFrYbRahiqPZbSZC4lskiVwNdmsftAF8w0edP8eLpTPS6UDvD_xlF1QTY_w7kbqVWRPF9T3Arq34zSSCK2iCEopqBr0-D5SUJYf3Qz4SND1pu0ltsWhrlVekN2B92pqqgJ1dOewEq65F6y3-ZfTFgKXrPVFSAqU2j8io8/s3707/Stormont%20panel%20event%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2421" data-original-width="3707" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxvSdYnbQdnCWs2GcfShG2PxFrYbRahiqPZbSZC4lskiVwNdmsftAF8w0edP8eLpTPS6UDvD_xlF1QTY_w7kbqVWRPF9T3Arq34zSSCK2iCEopqBr0-D5SUJYf3Qz4SND1pu0ltsWhrlVekN2B92pqqgJ1dOewEq65F6y3-ZfTFgKXrPVFSAqU2j8io8/s320/Stormont%20panel%20event%20.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">As
for the British identity in a United Ireland? Those of us who favour Irish
Unity have repeatedly emphasised our commitment to respect the British identity
of our neighbours and to accommodate that identity and its traditions in a new
and shared Ireland. We are also committed to the safeguards and guarantees, contained
in the Good Friday Agreement, being carried through into that new
Ireland. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">That
is not just a rhetorical commitment aimed at winning unionist support for or
acquiescence to Irish Unity. It is rooted in the principles and beliefs of
those – mainly Presbyterians - who embraced Republicanism in the 18<sup>th</sup> century.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The
United Irish Society was founded in Belfast in October 1791. It was the first
democratic movement in Ireland and took its inspiration from the American and
French Revolutions of that time. They sought solidarity between people of all
religious denominations, and political equality and Irish independence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Theobald
Wolfe Tone – who belonged to the Church of Ireland - embodied the new alliance
between Protestants and Catholics. His writings remain relevant to this
generation and this time.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Tone,
who served as secretary of the Catholic Committee, said his aim was: <i>“To
unite the whole people of Ireland, to abolish the memory of all past dissension
and to substitute the common name of Irishman in place of the denominations of
Protestant, Catholic and Dissenter – these were my means.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">In
facing up to a succession of economic and political crises then created by the
English government Tone concluded that; <i>“Ireland would never be either
free, prosperous, or happy, until she was independent, and that independence
was unattainable, whilst the connexion with England existed.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">To
build a new society Tone argued for a new relationship between the people of
Ireland. He wrote: “<i>the weight of </i></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England" target="_blank" title="England"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">English</span></i></a><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> influence
in the Government of this country is so great as to require a cordial union
among all the people of Ireland, to maintain that balance which is essential to
the preservation of our liberties and the extension of our commerce.”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">As
the momentum toward a unity referendum grows and as more and more positive voices
are being heard from the unionist/British section of our people the objective
of building a cordial union among the people of this island takes on a greater
significance. British governments are not to be trusted in protecting the
rights of citizens or managing our economy. Agreements between Unionist leaders
and British governments have been consistently dumped by British Prime
Ministers who time and time again have placed British self-interest above
commitments given to unionists.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The
future provides an opportunity to build a new relationship between the people
who share this island. A new cordial union – founded on inclusion and
reconciliation – on democratic agreements and respect. We are an island people
in transition. A fundamental part of this transition must be a sustained effort
to genuinely address the fears and concerns of northern unionists. As good
neighbours we must explore with them what they mean by their sense of
Britishness and how that sense of Britishness will be reflected in a new cordial
union between the people of this island. This is the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgffqhQk082nskgvRViXeCfaijGBUi_7hhTtFX2q1HkGIMsl0jCeWhFGhARY-nk1MduuOn9pEY59L8etPtym5ZmcSypRrZ1uzBPMqHic5xyiiUDGs7bfQHNZJb7-l3R0eOT51e67fQb8ZlMKLvdPdNTsnLyJXdLPnQ3ZN__G9qGMC5rF1ZtxuLqksoBWg/s2910/Mickey%20and%20Gerry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2910" data-original-width="2648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgffqhQk082nskgvRViXeCfaijGBUi_7hhTtFX2q1HkGIMsl0jCeWhFGhARY-nk1MduuOn9pEY59L8etPtym5ZmcSypRrZ1uzBPMqHic5xyiiUDGs7bfQHNZJb7-l3R0eOT51e67fQb8ZlMKLvdPdNTsnLyJXdLPnQ3ZN__G9qGMC5rF1ZtxuLqksoBWg/s320/Mickey%20and%20Gerry.jpg" width="291" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">PULSE<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Mickey Coleman , his wife Erin and their sons
Micheál and Riordan were in An Cultúrlann last week on Belfast’s Falls Road to
launch Mickey’s new book PULSE. Peter Canavan was there also along with mé féin.
I never thought I would be on a panel with Peter Canavan - one of my
footballing heroes and all Ireland champion with Tyrone. Twice. But there we
were telling yarns and sharing songs and funny stories. And a bunch of fine
singers from Glassdrummond entertained us and moved everyone with their
rendition of The Brantry Boy. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">PULSE is a special book, written with Damian
Harvey, and it tells Mickey’s story. Its a story of his family in Ardboe a wee
village in a beautiful part of rural Ireland beside Lough Neagh. It’s the
story of an Irish family of eight children, nurtured by
Teresa and her husband Sean. It is a story of Mickey kicking ball on the
Green with his brothers and childhood mates and then with the local
Gaelic Athletic Club - O Donavon Rossa. The heart of Ardboe.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">It’s about schooldays, meeting Peter Canavan
when he came to teach in Holy Trinity College in Cookstown. It’s about fishing
on Lough Neagh with his father. About British troops. Visits to his father
in Belfast Prison. It’s a book about music, song writing, guitar picking. Doing
local gigs. Visiting the USA. Getting on to the county football panel. It’s
about that brilliant first Tyrone team to win the Sam Maguire Cup. It’s about
Mickey Harte, legendary manager. It’s about Cormac Mac Anallen, one
of Tyrone’s finest, who died suddenly, aged just twenty
four. The Brantry Boy. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">It’s about New York. About Mickey knuckling down
and working hard supported by others including Fay Devlin. About meeting Erin
Loughran as she played the fiddle at a session. About Erin and Mickey
making music together. Then making babies. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Mickey’s business was going well. He was blessed
with a great family and friends. Immersed in the Gaeldom of New York.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Then on 29 March 2021, aged forty one,
Mickey had a massive heart attack. That’s when his life ended. Thanks to Erin,
his own resilience and self-awareness as he confronted his ‘widow maker’ and
Orangetown police and other emergency workers, he survived. Montefiores Nyack
Hospital did the rest and kept him alive. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">And then it was a long hard struggle for Mickey to
get back to himself again. This book tells all this and much more. It is
especially poignant as Mickey recounts how he relearned what is
important in life. It’s all here with wonderful clear and hopeful faith in
love, family, friendship, community, Ireland and humanity. Mickey’s
appeal to the reader is for us all to play our own music in
appreciation of what we have - not just materially but more importantly - in
our values. Because without those we have nothing. That is the essence of
Pulse. Read it for yourself. I’m honoured that Mickey invited me to help launch
his story. Thank you. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">PULSE lets us know that Mickey and Erin have
never forgotten where they are from and who they are. I wish them both and
their family the very best of good luck for the future. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vTXy5BDuAWG-d-odkuyaJA2anw071TsEvT9NSpN6iB_zUIOFsi1-5T8qBwZ7DEWvaa2ENHpbvUUeZP5FHiLbyeg1VJGYVFvCy9rIwhe3rrX6ypoB0PZP5K9yv6tACT8rm_jhYqetu7khqAy1kxXF2BH_S_lXLg241P4Yrq1pfhRSNUT-cBqORDqQce4/s1269/Mickey%20Gerry%20&%20Peter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="1269" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vTXy5BDuAWG-d-odkuyaJA2anw071TsEvT9NSpN6iB_zUIOFsi1-5T8qBwZ7DEWvaa2ENHpbvUUeZP5FHiLbyeg1VJGYVFvCy9rIwhe3rrX6ypoB0PZP5K9yv6tACT8rm_jhYqetu7khqAy1kxXF2BH_S_lXLg241P4Yrq1pfhRSNUT-cBqORDqQce4/s320/Mickey%20Gerry%20&%20Peter.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-42424685162582841532023-10-30T12:42:00.002+00:002023-10-30T12:42:42.994+00:00We are all Palestinians Now: Peacemakers<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIbU4aw9XjcqZ6MEuJw4pF00o9X5zTNumFokFJgtJ3gC35cMVeRf4t0JlFH4vlHwIU-n1U18I8lb88EWDkpDgpndjIJWxCKDSyASxK7-zr4mhwHoXeH7KoPi10xh0ovakKmhlyYxIgtpd3qGk3EYdDalY69A_t5jwjtLD5U5YWJxDwqiwU6QNAkSvn3U/s1170/Dublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1170" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIbU4aw9XjcqZ6MEuJw4pF00o9X5zTNumFokFJgtJ3gC35cMVeRf4t0JlFH4vlHwIU-n1U18I8lb88EWDkpDgpndjIJWxCKDSyASxK7-zr4mhwHoXeH7KoPi10xh0ovakKmhlyYxIgtpd3qGk3EYdDalY69A_t5jwjtLD5U5YWJxDwqiwU6QNAkSvn3U/s320/Dublin.jpg" width="320" /></a><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We are all Palestinians Now</span></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last week as I wrote this column all of the scéal
coming from the Israeli government and its international allies indicated that
a ground invasion of Gaza was imminent. It would, according to some be a <i>‘surgical
strike against Hamas’</i>. From British government Ministers, to political
pundits, to international allies of the Israeli government, to Israeli
spokespersons the aim – they say - is to destroy Hamas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It’s all nonsense of course. The reality is that
Israel can no more destroy Hamas than Hamas can destroy Israel.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The ground invasion has now begun. The civilian death
toll is rising. The claim that in a military ground invasion of Gaza Israel
will be mindful of civilians is also a nonsense. In the past two decades
Israeli attacks on and assaults into Gaza and more recently against Palestinian
people in the west Bank have produced overwhelming evidence of an Israeli
apartheid state that views Palestinians as inferior, without rights. They are,
according to the Israeli Defence Minister recently, ‘<i>human animals.’</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Over the last few weeks over 100 Palestinians,
including at least 30 children, have been shot dead in the west Bank by Israeli
snipers. 2000 Palestinians, including many children have been wounded. As the
horrific casualty list from Gaza mounts each day events on the west Bank are
rarely reported.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Even if Israel occupies the rubble of a Gaza City
levelled by its scorched earth policy of ethnic cleansing, forcibly evicts or
kills those Gazans living in the northern half of that territory, and annexes
it as part of a land grab for the greater Israeli state envisioned by
Netanyahu, this will all have the opposite effect its strategists are
predicting. The history of colonialism is littered with examples of oppressed
peoples emerging stronger and more determined in pursuit of their right to
self-determination.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">If colonialism and our own experience teaches us
anything it is that Israeli actions are more likely to embolden opposition to
Israeli occupation not defeat it. Past Israeli actions, the blockade of Gaza
for almost 20 years, the flouting of international law and its apartheid
policy, have not diminished the Palestinian desire for freedom and justice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The failure of the international community to stand
up for international law and to defend Palestinian rights has led us to this
current nightmare.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Moreover, there is now a real danger that the
conflict will extend beyond Gaza and the west Bank and embroil the region. It
may be several decades since Arab states and Israel clashed on the battlefield
but concern at Israeli aggression is mounting in the neighbouring states. From
Lebanon to Jordan to Syria, to Iran and Egypt tensions are rising. There
are real risks of a calamitous escalation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It is still not too late to turn back from the
abyss. It will need leadership and courage by all sides and a willingness to take
huge personal and political risks for peace. It especially demands that the
international community defend the Palestinian people of Gaza and of the west
Bank.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdGAZBHiELANdp_2GYracNQRLDDh-j8jxgR0Y5MUXGaTneo9L-sEbcwJigqgHKEQi3IjCbjTrflBCrMjrZSJKfZDhIClchiFEJbABxcYehj4aVOBdcDf67tbr5aXIHYPk8NDpfJsJVTrsgiODqbfh-RSpeZc39RmlYVtA92lMUhUtnmUZ3llpv9-qW3k/s564/cork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="564" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdGAZBHiELANdp_2GYracNQRLDDh-j8jxgR0Y5MUXGaTneo9L-sEbcwJigqgHKEQi3IjCbjTrflBCrMjrZSJKfZDhIClchiFEJbABxcYehj4aVOBdcDf67tbr5aXIHYPk8NDpfJsJVTrsgiODqbfh-RSpeZc39RmlYVtA92lMUhUtnmUZ3llpv9-qW3k/s320/cork.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The massive solidarity demonstrations last weekend
with the Palestinian people in Ireland and around the world can help change the
narrative. The increasing numbers of voices demanding a complete cessation by
all sides and an end to the humanitarian catastrophe that is taking place in
Gaza, are evidence too that there remains a deep well of compassion for all
victims.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Declan Kearney, Sinn Féin National Chairperson,
addressed the huge march of tens of thousands in London. He said: <i>“A
humanitarian catastrophe is taking place in Gaza – the likes of which we have
never seen. The world has a choice to make. To stand with the oppressed and
dispossessed or Palestine, or not. We stand on the side of humanity, decency,
universal democracy and international law. We are all Palestinians now.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Irish government is in a unique position to
demand cessations and to be a voice within the international community for
dialogue, ceasefires and a just settlement. The policy of neutrality and
military non-alignment has proven invaluable in allowing Irish governments to
use the United Nations and other international bodies to win support in defence
of human rights.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7X-nBx7Cgjyt21X75-lpN4qs_rCOE_Tdo2QT7A_Sm38xe-MwZozeSzAd9tRL0uBprK_Rzs3gRpocVxzKVXxHf6vXTnnX_QdSQe7GEmmgPw-o4CUUXZsy8LPObnfoC6AdlEpVfwPYu9aDAuOBW71uc9JdFDOhUiPoJXews1ty1daf1iOckNgEcTP5-mU/s1170/London.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="1170" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7X-nBx7Cgjyt21X75-lpN4qs_rCOE_Tdo2QT7A_Sm38xe-MwZozeSzAd9tRL0uBprK_Rzs3gRpocVxzKVXxHf6vXTnnX_QdSQe7GEmmgPw-o4CUUXZsy8LPObnfoC6AdlEpVfwPYu9aDAuOBW71uc9JdFDOhUiPoJXews1ty1daf1iOckNgEcTP5-mU/s320/London.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Uachtarán Michael D Higgins’
recent assertion that the head of the European Commission Ursula
von der Leyen was <i>"not speaking for Ireland</i>” when she
gave unqualified support for Israel was widely welcomed. His insistence that
the international community <i>“retain and insist on the veracity and
cogency of international law”</i> was also supported. His remarks
underline the importance of Irish neutrality. It must not be eroded or
undermined.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine there was
anger last year at comments by Micheál Martin that suggested that the Fianna
Fáil/Fine Gael/Green Party government was moving away from neutrality. Martin
said: <i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">“We need to reflect on
military non-alignment in Ireland and our military neutrality.”</span></i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> His claim that: </span><i>“<span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">We don’t need a referendum to join NATO. That’s a
policy decision of government”</span></i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> was
challenged and criticised.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The crisis in the Middle East and the illegal and
brutal assault on the people of Gaza reinforce the imperative of the policy of
neutrality.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">By remaining neutral and non-aligned to military
alliances the Irish government has the opportunity to build on the state’s
positive contributions in the United Nations and to its peace keeping role.
Ireland is known for our work on peace building and the protection of human
rights and fundamental freedoms. Irish neutrality has served the island of
Ireland well and is generally welcomed by the majority of states within the
U.N. This is evidenced by the support it received several years ago to join the
UN Security Council.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Through diplomacy, humanitarianism, peace-building
and co-operation we have the ability to make a real difference in international
matters; to play an important role in an increasingly dangerous world. By
investing in conflict resolution rather than conflict participation the Irish
government can make a solid, positive contribution to de-escalating the
language of war, sectarianism and racism.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Neutrality is not being isolationist. It is not
about indifference. It’s not about turning our backs on the world. As the
International Committee of the Red Cross said two days ago neutrality is a way
of helping that allows <i>“us to reach those who need it most.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That means condemning those who breach
international law – whether it is Hamas or Israel – and standing up for and
with an impoverished, imprisoned Palestinian people living under the brutal
rule of apartheid. Silence in this dark time is complicity in the genocide of
the people of Gaza.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBQYhrC5UX4rnJSwM2xVFB9UGZJvDpGXd6EAWNbnqn-801UPCQs0KKuImgr2I3P7EIQoOMj9SxZGoqVaVcycd0XDrF8Xsq3MP7DV2bae6IuS7EatcSt6UZYy2qKlZ7afzahePywVPVWAayp-4wJ61jmomSyOE_QtmvLxkVnuWJ0-aw_ZOM-53XC3kIuM/s1170/Derry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="1170" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBQYhrC5UX4rnJSwM2xVFB9UGZJvDpGXd6EAWNbnqn-801UPCQs0KKuImgr2I3P7EIQoOMj9SxZGoqVaVcycd0XDrF8Xsq3MP7DV2bae6IuS7EatcSt6UZYy2qKlZ7afzahePywVPVWAayp-4wJ61jmomSyOE_QtmvLxkVnuWJ0-aw_ZOM-53XC3kIuM/s320/Derry.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Peacemakers<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">30 years
ago last Monday an IRA bomb exploded on the Shankill Road killing nine people and
IRA Volunteer Thomas Begley. It was a shocking event compounded a week later
when eight people were shot dead in Greysteel. These were two of many
atrocities which occurred during a quarter century of conflict in the North.
Their impact on families and communities reverberates still today, as do the
more than 3,000 other deaths and the thousands of injuries that resulted from
those desperate years. The families of the dead and the injured have lived with
the consequences ever since. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Today
we are in a much better place. Not least because many of those who suffered
directly from the violence became peacemakers. Citizens willing to step beyond
their own personal tragedies and provide support and comfort to the bereaved
and injured and to become advocates for peace and for justice. We are
mindful of their loss and grateful for their courage and dedication in breaking
down barriers. Alan McBride - who lost his wife Sharon and her father Desmond
in the IRA bomb - is one such person. He is an example to the rest of us,
including this columnist. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tír Chonaill Thuaidh <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bhuail mé le
spéirbhean <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thug sí a lamh
dom <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thug mé póg di
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fan anseo
liom, <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Arsa an
spéirbhean <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-54892913318337470022023-10-26T12:49:00.006+01:002023-10-26T12:49:57.847+01:00We are all Palestinians Now: Peacemakers: Tír Chonaill Thuaidh<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We are all Palestinians Now</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The ground invasion of Gaza has begun. The Israeli
government and its international allies previously claimed that will be a <i>‘surgical
strike against Hamas’</i>. From British government Ministers, to political
pundits, to international allies of the Israeli government, to Israeli
spokespersons the aim – they say - is to destroy Hamas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It’s all nonsense of course. The reality is that
Israel can no more destroy Hamas than Hamas can destroy Israel.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In addition, the claim that in a military ground
invasion of Gaza Israel will be mindful of civilians is also a nonsense. In the
past two decades Israeli attacks on and assaults into Gaza and more recently
against Palestinian people in the west Bank have produced overwhelming evidence
of an Israeli apartheid state that views Palestinians as inferior, without
rights. They are, according to the Israeli Defence Minister recently, ‘<i>human
animals.’</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Over the last few weeks almost 100 Palestinians,
including at least 30 children, have been shot dead in the west Bank by Israeli
snipers. 1300 Palestinians, including many children have been wounded. As the
horrific casualty list from Gaza mounts each day events on the west Bank are
rarely reported.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Even if Israel occupies the rubble of a Gaza City
levelled by its scorched earth policy, forcibly evicts or kills those Gazans
living in the northern half of that territory, and annexes it as part of a land
grab for the greater Israeli state envisioned by Netanyahu, this will all have
the opposite effect its strategists are predicting. The history of colonialism
is littered with examples of oppressed peoples emerging stronger and more
determined in pursuit of their right to self-determination.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">If colonialism and our own experience teaches us
anything it is that Israeli actions are more likely to embolden opposition to
Israeli occupation not defeat it. Past Israeli actions, the blockade of Gaza
for almost 20 years, the flouting of international law and its apartheid
policy, have not diminished the Palestinian desire for freedom and justice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The failure of the international community to stand
up for international law and to defend Palestinian rights has led us to this
current nightmare.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Moreover, there is now a real danger that the
conflict will extend beyond Gaza and the west Bank and embroil the region. It
may be several decades since Arab states and Israel clashed on the battlefield
but concern at Israeli aggression is mounting in the neighbouring states. From
Lebanon to Jordan to Syria, to Iran and Egypt tensions are rising. There
are real risks of a calamitous escalation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It is still not too late to turn back from the
abyss. It will need leadership and courage by all sides and a willingness to take
huge personal and political risks for peace. It especially demands that the
international community defend the Palestinian people of Gaza and of the west
Bank.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The massive solidarity demonstrations last weekend
with the Palestinian people in Ireland and around the world can help change the
narrative. The increasing numbers of voices demanding a complete cessation by
all sides and an end to the humanitarian catastrophe that is taking place in
Gaza, are evidence too that there remains a deep well of compassion for all
victims.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Declan Kearney, Sinn Féin National Chairperson,
addressed the huge march of tens of thousands in London. He said: <i>“A
humanitarian catastrophe is taking place in Gaza – the likes of which we have
never seen. The world has a choice to make. To stand with the oppressed and
dispossessed or Palestine, or not. We stand on the side of humanity, decency,
universal democracy and international law. We are all Palestinians now.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Irish government is in a unique position to
demand cessations and to be a voice within the international community for
dialogue, ceasefires and a just settlement. The policy of neutrality and
military non-alignment has proven invaluable in allowing Irish governments to
use the United Nations and other international bodies to win support in defence
of human rights.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Uachtarán Michael D Higgins’
recent assertion that the head of the European Commission Ursula
von der Leyen was <i>"not speaking for Ireland</i>” when she
gave unqualified support for Israel was widely welcomed. His insistence that
the international community <i>“retain and insist on the veracity and
cogency of international law”</i> was also supported. His remarks
underline the importance of Irish neutrality. It must not be eroded or
undermined.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine there was
anger last year at comments by Micheál Martin that suggested that the Fianna
Fáil/Fine Gael/Green Party government was moving away from neutrality. Martin
said: <i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">“We need to reflect on
military non-alignment in Ireland and our military neutrality.”</span></i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> His claim that: </span><i>“<span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;">We don’t need a referendum to join NATO. That’s a
policy decision of government”</span></i><span style="letter-spacing: -.15pt;"> was
challenged and criticised.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The crisis in the Middle East and the illegal and
brutal assault on the people of Gaza reinforce the imperative of the policy of
neutrality.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">By remaining neutral and non-aligned to military
alliances the Irish government has the opportunity to build on the state’s
positive contributions in the United Nations and to its peace keeping role.
Ireland is known for our work on peace building and the protection of human
rights and fundamental freedoms. Irish neutrality has served the island of
Ireland well and is generally welcomed by the majority of states within the
U.N. This is evidenced by the support it received several years ago to join the
UN Security Council.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Through diplomacy, humanitarianism, peace-building
and co-operation we have the ability to make a real difference in international
matters; to play an important role in an increasingly dangerous world. By
investing in conflict resolution rather than conflict participation the Irish
government can make a solid, positive contribution to de-escalating the
language of war, sectarianism and racism.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Neutrality is not being isolationist. It is not
about indifference. It’s not about turning our backs on the world. As the
International Committee of the Red Cross said two days ago neutrality is a way
of helping that allows <i>“us to reach those who need it most.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That means condemning those who breach
international law – whether it is Hamas or Israel – and standing up for and
with an impoverished, imprisoned Palestinian people living under the brutal
rule of apartheid. Silence in this dark time is complicity in the genocide of
the people of Gaza.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYh9mH57rEzA-_A1QZOwI2PPcbQfY06gWq9w8pm5NliU_cMTKBSpmIt4kI8t561ak7ujHwsb68Rw5n9zOK_lt4GTb4Zr5V1Ez3Hk3Bb1x1mrQ0DI4lSdAOunbW7ZEeZ2xXYQ_jDhkFAVvzte82VSdVg_tFBEvPMXRIkuaLBNVkXcWGsUsOYEJYUXZE-cc/s1170/Derry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="1170" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYh9mH57rEzA-_A1QZOwI2PPcbQfY06gWq9w8pm5NliU_cMTKBSpmIt4kI8t561ak7ujHwsb68Rw5n9zOK_lt4GTb4Zr5V1Ez3Hk3Bb1x1mrQ0DI4lSdAOunbW7ZEeZ2xXYQ_jDhkFAVvzte82VSdVg_tFBEvPMXRIkuaLBNVkXcWGsUsOYEJYUXZE-cc/s320/Derry.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0fx2QGGf7J3o1iDpnEy7gLJKRpGmPPHIf6kLoviFBYevJ2Jm4E8c6qXY7QLbB6nFAnGjqqKlyU023wnlkEu3D55nO6MnTpvl9UGITJ1XxBIPT_9nJN4175BFfyhafyIyK9SpnCoP7lxeYcV2LGF-eHDEWbKwR35xswLpvSt2RIajkSkz-8APkuiRmvI/s1170/Dublin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1170" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0fx2QGGf7J3o1iDpnEy7gLJKRpGmPPHIf6kLoviFBYevJ2Jm4E8c6qXY7QLbB6nFAnGjqqKlyU023wnlkEu3D55nO6MnTpvl9UGITJ1XxBIPT_9nJN4175BFfyhafyIyK9SpnCoP7lxeYcV2LGF-eHDEWbKwR35xswLpvSt2RIajkSkz-8APkuiRmvI/s320/Dublin.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO_Y2uQH7xbKa2C2wgNa3hAcFA-ExQgp2r7w-t5PGbjYId2zN0PTI9925lrRT6fONWlGFnr_dp1h4fzYHXtMOvS5G6YdNHrN58EOMpZl9ayCNfLmbAa-n7rgHJNTrkKZD9CesbzY0L5BDtcMQXRMQeu5XsFuuPpwwphD633Onm5fDMTuxi7lm9OR5lQI/s1170/London.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="1170" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO_Y2uQH7xbKa2C2wgNa3hAcFA-ExQgp2r7w-t5PGbjYId2zN0PTI9925lrRT6fONWlGFnr_dp1h4fzYHXtMOvS5G6YdNHrN58EOMpZl9ayCNfLmbAa-n7rgHJNTrkKZD9CesbzY0L5BDtcMQXRMQeu5XsFuuPpwwphD633Onm5fDMTuxi7lm9OR5lQI/s320/London.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Peacemakers<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">30 years
ago on Monday an IRA bomb exploded on the Shankill Road killing nine people and
IRA Volunteer Thomas Begley. It was a shocking event compounded a week later
when eight people were shot dead in Greysteel. These were two of many
atrocities which occurred during a quarter century of conflict in the North.
Their impact on families and communities reverberates still today, as do the
more than 3,000 other deaths and the thousands of injuries that resulted from
those desperate years. The families of the dead and the injured have lived with
the consequences ever since. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Today
we are in a much better place. Not least because many of those who suffered
directly from the violence became peacemakers. Citizens willing to step beyond
their own personal tragedies and provide support and comfort to the bereaved
and injured and to become advocates for peace and for justice. We are
mindful of their loss and grateful for their courage and dedication in breaking
down barriers. Alan McBride - who lost his wife Sharon and her father Desmond
in the IRA bomb - is one such person. He is an example to the rest of us,
including this columnist. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Tír Chonaill Thuaidh <o:p></o:p></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bhuail mé le
spéirbhean <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thug sí a lamh
dom <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thug mé póg di
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fan anseo
liom, <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Arsa an
spéirbhean <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ar bharr
portaigh <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I measc na
sléibhte <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I dTír
Chonaill Thuaidh. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_5GO7GPD3VcMl8dPrVvWB7NspCyuFP3YBnt9sTAjEiKfZNnV5enNF2EnA9nwWZhPxgqrV11STPmu_e6Kcni4NsVg5XgtluF8Nr8N0GCxVId65ikDiPSyT6L72O7IVALpjyKbvLh3O5O3qIQKLhsoocs6cA_JVCYdFapuaHklTC-3uzt3uC6imWLFSng/s564/cork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="564" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_5GO7GPD3VcMl8dPrVvWB7NspCyuFP3YBnt9sTAjEiKfZNnV5enNF2EnA9nwWZhPxgqrV11STPmu_e6Kcni4NsVg5XgtluF8Nr8N0GCxVId65ikDiPSyT6L72O7IVALpjyKbvLh3O5O3qIQKLhsoocs6cA_JVCYdFapuaHklTC-3uzt3uC6imWLFSng/s320/cork.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-5194671214335040272023-10-16T22:12:00.000+01:002023-10-16T22:12:24.165+01:00Peace Talks Now: On Being Seventy Five: More Street Art. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOI6B4VbulYpgbXei-GRMWYVBdbuq_OeK1nIqg9O0_v9G6j5igPjTGXAoF8vqU8asu_jMnt7H0T-BubnQnq1NRa3kgA9FsTkt8KysrndzlhWuZLzIwfMcfYmZYQRfSQ9xC2fWpnsR1wlxPLBPG8nWDRupjmuDzl4lphYddzwmv8uOvQNUI5xNk0h7KgA/s2304/Separation%20Wall%20Bethlehem%202009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOI6B4VbulYpgbXei-GRMWYVBdbuq_OeK1nIqg9O0_v9G6j5igPjTGXAoF8vqU8asu_jMnt7H0T-BubnQnq1NRa3kgA9FsTkt8KysrndzlhWuZLzIwfMcfYmZYQRfSQ9xC2fWpnsR1wlxPLBPG8nWDRupjmuDzl4lphYddzwmv8uOvQNUI5xNk0h7KgA/s320/Separation%20Wall%20Bethlehem%202009.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>At the separation wall around Bethlehem 2009</b></div> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Peace Talks Now</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">The scale of the assault by
Palestinian fighters into Israel last weekend is unparalleled. The scenes of
death and destruction on both sides are heart breaking. But shock and despair
at more violence in that region is not the answer.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The roots of these events are
to be found in the failure of the international community to take decisive
steps to defend international law, challenge Israeli aggression and its
continued illegal occupation of Palestinian land, and to recognise the rights
of the Palestinian people.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Over the last year there have
been increased killings of Palestinians, particularly children, by the Israeli
Defence Forces and by Israeli settlers. At the same time the theft of
Palestinian land, the existence of the Separation Wall, the growth in Israeli
settlements and the destruction of Palestinian schools, homes, sources of water
and the imprisonment of thousands of prisoners, have largely been ignored by
the international community.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">History teaches us that when
colonisers engage in wholesale military, political and economic repression and
ignore the democratic rights of citizens, this is likely to lead to conflict.
This is not new. It is story of colonialism in countless states across the
world, including here in Ireland.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I warned of this potential in
April 2009 following a visit to the region. During my time in the west Bank, in
Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip I met a huge number of NGOs, Israeli and
Palestinian human rights organisations, women’s groups, community
organisations, a member of Kadima, and all of the main Palestinian political
parties.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In a subsequent report of the
visit I wrote that decades “after the emergence of the Israeli state and the
partition of Palestine, and with the increasing sophistication of the weapons
of war on all sides, it is clear that no wall – however high – can provide
permanent peace or security.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I added: “Refusing to engage in
dialogue; demonising opponents; treating them as non-citizens; stripping them
of their rights and entitlements, of their self esteem and integrity as human
beings; engaging in censorship and vilification, makes war easier and peace
harder. It is a policy which guarantees a perpetuation of the cycle of
conflict.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The alternative then and today
is obvious. Dialogue. Negotiations. More dialogue.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">So, after the weekend’s event
what should happen next? In 2009 I proposed that:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">All armed actions or threats of
armed actions should cease immediately.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">An inclusive process of
negotiations should commence in which all democratic mandates are respected,
clear objectives are set, and there is a fixed timeframe.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The siege of the Gaza Strip
should end.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">An immediate and intensive
programme of reconstruction and economic development must commence.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The ongoing Israeli
colonisation of the West Bank and the building of settlements should stop.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The occupation of the West Bank
and the denial of freedom of movement to Palestinians in the West Bank and in
the Gaza Strip, and between the west Bank and Gaza, should end as part of the
process to decolonise the West Bank.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Mutual and expeditious
co-operation between Palestinians and Israelis to enhance public safety and
security should commence.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 7.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">United Nations Resolutions and
International Law should be enforced.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">These steps are even more
necessary today. 75 years after the state of Israel was established and
millions of Palestinians were forced from their homes to become refugees the
imperative of achieving a political settlement is more urgent that ever.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">However difficult it will be
this is the time for dialogue. The demand of the international community must
be for an end to all violence. All those who are decrying </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">last
week</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">ends</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">terrible events in the Middle
East</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> should </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">organise a
international intervention to establish a proper negotiations process, based
upon international law</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> Anything
else is unacceptable</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">. The Irish government could and should play a leadership
role in such an initiative. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> Dialogue,
dialogue</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> is what is required. As soon as possible. That
means NOW!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The
alternative is too terrible to contemplate.</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><b><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">On Being Seventy Five. </span></b></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><b><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">I published a version of this
reflection when I was seventy two.Following my recent 75th birthday
I think it deserves another slightly revised outing. I might rewrite
and republish it again when I</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">’</span></b><b><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">m
eighty. Who knows? </span></b></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I
celebrated my seventy </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">fifth </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">birthday
last week.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Seventy </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">five </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">is closer to eighty</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Than it
is to sixty. Or fifty. Or forty. Or thirty. Or twenty.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">But I
know that </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I will
never be sixty. Or fifty. Or forty. Or thirty. Or twenty.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ever
again.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Sin é.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">That’s
the way of it. </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">That’s
life. </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">But
will I ever be eighty? Nobody knows. That’s the mystery of it. </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The
wonder of it. The adventure of it. And the hope.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Me?</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I hope
to know my grandchildren’s grandchildren.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">But not
too soon a thaiscí</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">That’s
impossible say the naysayers.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Nothing
is impossible I reply.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Content
that </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">We will
find out in the end.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Well,
some of us will.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Until
then I will try to live every day</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Like it
is my last day. </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">And
eventually I will be right.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">But
from now until then </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I am
sure</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The
best is yet to come.</span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrbtOfthyXdkOLuL1UJyxy2Qc1kpPu0ekB1ZgqCxoqfM0UwmDX8_LfiRkSrhZXQGDZTsV9j9zhLM-Ttu-5znH72y54_LVLGFkyCpyzjkow8YmgWsoHNaCLLnFnpPNUumZ-qMDEnf-cJ_v_sxRSxIz529IOWWdjM-Tgg5E2aA4H50gJW3nLlMpj46gNng/s1069/Street%20Art%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="863" data-original-width="1069" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrbtOfthyXdkOLuL1UJyxy2Qc1kpPu0ekB1ZgqCxoqfM0UwmDX8_LfiRkSrhZXQGDZTsV9j9zhLM-Ttu-5znH72y54_LVLGFkyCpyzjkow8YmgWsoHNaCLLnFnpPNUumZ-qMDEnf-cJ_v_sxRSxIz529IOWWdjM-Tgg5E2aA4H50gJW3nLlMpj46gNng/s320/Street%20Art%203.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: GA;">More Street Art. </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";">Gort Na Mona are leading the
way in the Upper Springfield with their brightly coloured electric boxes.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4nyUQ1rOeUfnDV1WbuxW2DqkRxdY96CZ2xC9MKiNzZJ_9vf4rMoFHehosb_eWnfMe5yl7rfZR512Weamosia6j24gy-YmU9Az8B34_FWikAV6S4Zkx2UKDBqH7b_V2e_oJ3iSR98Ckg4lHHBKyTt3Y-vv5arVBWHPGKFBYE9JFNRNeSzpGTXk7zsYSg/s983/Street%20Art%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="925" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4nyUQ1rOeUfnDV1WbuxW2DqkRxdY96CZ2xC9MKiNzZJ_9vf4rMoFHehosb_eWnfMe5yl7rfZR512Weamosia6j24gy-YmU9Az8B34_FWikAV6S4Zkx2UKDBqH7b_V2e_oJ3iSR98Ckg4lHHBKyTt3Y-vv5arVBWHPGKFBYE9JFNRNeSzpGTXk7zsYSg/s320/Street%20Art%201.jpg" width="301" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoCunWK9k0K213Hsr2y9ByKAAvCBXcVpE5iebQMmyfXMLoBaB_cX_RZrpiGrln4SwtaJkF3ETyf1rWSJEFaJzMA1muokg-oe4O8Sd4uYdaSlK4QvxBRRcIA_LVJLihUlcrE7xe4juIALQw21B-QQw5f-CSzfclpclImqeIGAInPuJMdio5EZDqd4XOqE/s1170/Street%20Art%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="1170" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoCunWK9k0K213Hsr2y9ByKAAvCBXcVpE5iebQMmyfXMLoBaB_cX_RZrpiGrln4SwtaJkF3ETyf1rWSJEFaJzMA1muokg-oe4O8Sd4uYdaSlK4QvxBRRcIA_LVJLihUlcrE7xe4juIALQw21B-QQw5f-CSzfclpclImqeIGAInPuJMdio5EZDqd4XOqE/s320/Street%20Art%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-9244532968992250492023-10-10T09:36:00.000+01:002023-10-10T09:36:45.573+01:00David Ervine - The Man Who Swallowed A Dictionary: Street Art: Mól An Óige.<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDU3kqVGWoay_tTAgy0TfDcqSOwemY3xwFyGsUh4g0CVZljc6uoeyBOBVJS4r5uC-V6Xvnxu2P3BtvxezVt634k1VbLZGJpCF5okjkMmnHHVY86DB6Fnof-oyuopuAFJ7B8_14IB8e_qi55DWNSEFGARXb8AwBlOvKWUZlOJHkgiwZv24OPDeYZ9FuJE/s500/Dictionary%20image.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDU3kqVGWoay_tTAgy0TfDcqSOwemY3xwFyGsUh4g0CVZljc6uoeyBOBVJS4r5uC-V6Xvnxu2P3BtvxezVt634k1VbLZGJpCF5okjkMmnHHVY86DB6Fnof-oyuopuAFJ7B8_14IB8e_qi55DWNSEFGARXb8AwBlOvKWUZlOJHkgiwZv24OPDeYZ9FuJE/s320/Dictionary%20image.webp" width="320" /><br /></a><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">David Ervine - The Man Who Swallowed
A Dictionary</span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Anyone who knew David Ervine or knows
of him will appreciate the title of Bobby Niblock’s play - The Man Who
Swallowed A Dictionary. In its humorous description of David’s style of
speaking and wordiness it reminds us of a political leader who was an able and
determined advocate for working class loyalism. His sudden death in January
2007 at the age of 53 left a political vacuum within loyalism </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">and wider
politics </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">which has never been properly filled.
The Progressive Unionist Party which David led has failed to garner the popular
political support that it was once thought capable of under his
leadership. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I have not yet had an opportunity to
see Bobby’s play</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> but friends who
have </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">thoroughly enjoyed the one-man show.
They praised the script and actor Paul Garrett </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">who </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">successfully
brings the nuances and David’</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s voice </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">to life on the stage with just two
large books, a bushy moustache and a pipe as his props.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">During the course of the negotiations
leading to the Good Friday Agreement and in the years afterward I met David
many times. </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Among other
things we were both pipe smokers. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He was</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> also</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> articulate, genuine, and deeply committed to his brand of
unionism. </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He had a good
sense of humour. He was very socialable. In Kerry in support of the project
involving young people from East Belfast to buil</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">d</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> a replica of
The Jeanne Johnson - a ship used during the Great Hunger to transport starving Irish
to America </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">- </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">David and Martin Ferris would often adjourn to a
local pub to scull pints and chat about sport. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">But he
also </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> had no illusions about the
challenges facing all of us as we worked to chart a course from conflict to
peace. While the Ulster Unionist leaders refused to talk to Sinn Féin
throughout the negotiations leading to the G</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">ood Friday Agreement </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> David and his colleagues played no such games. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">An east Belfast working-class
Protestant David Ervine was drawn into the loyalism at an early age. In 1972 he
joined the UVF and two years later he was imprisoned in Long Kesh for
possession of a bomb. David spent five and a half years there. When he was
released he was more politically and socially conscious. He was
self-assured, confident and argued for greater positivity and dialogue within
unionism. In the discussions that were taking place in the 1990s about moving
from conflict into some sort of peace and political process David’s voice, along
with Billy Hutchinson and others, became increasingly important and
influential within the protestant/unionist/loyalist (PUL) community.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He often criticised unionist
political leaders for using loyalist paramilitaries, and the threat of loyalist
violence, as leverage in their confrontations with the British and Irish
governments, and who then discarded them when they no longer mattered. “If
anybody in Northern Ireland thinks that the Protestant working class community
has benefited from the mechanisms that they [the DUP] advocate, then there is
something wrong with their heads.” Two decades later and this dangerous
game is still being played although it has to be said many loyalist
groups go along with this despite being conscious of being used by unionist
parties.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">On another occasion talking about
sectarianism he said: "Many people come from places where drawing-room
sectarianism is at its worst … and they have luxuriated and benefited as
society, divided more and more, crashes on the rocks." It is a great
pity that today’s loyalists don’t see the folly of this. They continue to allow
themselves to be used.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In an interview with Danny Morrison
in 2002 David acknowledged that the conflict had its origins in the North’s
one-party unionist state and the discrimination levelled against Catholics. At
a time when the issue of Irish Unity wasn’t attracting the interest it is today
David said that he would “accept a united Ireland if a majority in the North
votes for it.” His preference of course was to make the North work for
everyone. His thoughts on what motivates unionism are probably more relevant
today than they were 20 years ago when the current momentum toward Irish Unity
was not so strong. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">He told Danny: “You’ve got to
understand how unionism works. There is a huge insecurity within unionism.
Unionism really hasn’t had time to settle. They feel that the republican
agitation is never going to stop. The one thing that unionists lust for is
stability. It’s the one thing they have never had.”</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZB4LYqelOixLhEDw8Q7GwQPa9Y_yVDo98kWw6kkq-LzgXdkEm4L4AZDR_kMHtw3KZZ23HjyO47sFE9uVOVrXTvzyOaKW2KP8XtMPEdOlyjk-o4IbMr3hcn9n7ggk-b7fqF20BODNdR-b0w92YLamrwvvch8xVRsx75zQX63An3yKOKg78Y3E_TbDjjZg/s2070/David%20Ervine%20Funeral%209%20NL%2012-1-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2070" data-original-width="1725" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZB4LYqelOixLhEDw8Q7GwQPa9Y_yVDo98kWw6kkq-LzgXdkEm4L4AZDR_kMHtw3KZZ23HjyO47sFE9uVOVrXTvzyOaKW2KP8XtMPEdOlyjk-o4IbMr3hcn9n7ggk-b7fqF20BODNdR-b0w92YLamrwvvch8xVRsx75zQX63An3yKOKg78Y3E_TbDjjZg/s320/David%20Ervine%20Funeral%209%20NL%2012-1-07.jpg" width="267" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>At David's Funeral</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Later he said: “I am what I am. I am
both Irish and British but I’m a democrat too… There’s nothing more fascist
than someone telling you what you are, especially if you perceive yourself to
be somewhat different… We are steeped in concepts of Britishness… but those who
are the legal arbiters are the people of Northern Ireland. It is absolutely
legitimate for republicans to argue the validity of a united Ireland but the
new dispensation is worthy and there should be no Plan B. My mother and father
were Irish, my grandparents, and very simplistically so. But there are arguments
about the haunting mist of the 1937 Constitution that forced the unionist
people to re-think their Irishness.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">If he were still with us we could
have a good debate over some of this. But nonetheless today we increasingly see
protestant/unionist voices embracing the notion of being Irish and of equality
and parity within the context of constitutional change. If David were here now
he would be in the middle of this conversation, smoking his pipe and
advocating </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">his views</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">His sudden death in January 2007 was a
shock. Alex Maskey and I attended his funeral in East Belfast. It was an
opportunity to let his wife Jeanette know how much David was respected and of
our sincere gratitude for the immense contribution he made to the peace process
and to the Good Friday Agreement. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span></b><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQkLog_9KUw9CfAEc-6U79L6I37w8pL4YEssbEDkpIXwCa-RO_9iJEsf8z49irYhdfTlUwTy_jynIfQnWUz-V17PnJtUlSJpqcc-n1iptNZzkdkfDSq8tLcazTU68cJtjIlc1LareMFOrRHcjTjToeG2CwGqR-31Ho4T-szrUuOmPHLJmWS9G0uLMW9q4/s1024/Naomh%20P%C3%B3l.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQkLog_9KUw9CfAEc-6U79L6I37w8pL4YEssbEDkpIXwCa-RO_9iJEsf8z49irYhdfTlUwTy_jynIfQnWUz-V17PnJtUlSJpqcc-n1iptNZzkdkfDSq8tLcazTU68cJtjIlc1LareMFOrRHcjTjToeG2CwGqR-31Ho4T-szrUuOmPHLJmWS9G0uLMW9q4/s320/Naomh%20P%C3%B3l.jpeg" width="240" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Street Art.</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br />
<br />
When I had the honour to represent the fine citizens of Louth and East Meath
Richard and I spent a lot of time in Dublin. In between marathon shifts in
Teach </span><span lang="GA" style="color: #202122; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Laighean</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">we used to walk the streets of the capital. Both of us were taken by the
initiatives to paint utility fittings like electric boxes with images of local
or national figures, pithy slogans, landscapes</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">, iconic landmarks </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> and abstract designs. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Drab grey metal was transformed into
bright eye catching and mind lifting street art. Now I see this is being
replicated in Belfast. Naomh Pól and Rossa are leading the way. Very well done.
Let’s see other clubs doing their thing. And images also of local people or
flora and fauna or relics of the linen industry or butterflies</span><span lang="GA" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">, local
landmarks </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> and local art.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mu4EOXUUTvFvEtJN6u26v4U-bYCEYtkGA9V8hAWSNM6UzG4nTQNgK-5Avkv68qJSKmftLGZwpdYGyK1hpiZk-3VFxXrWnfniS3MdMFwLOoSBWVQCKXCN6Bb1lxCNjtcBMvioYX1DlV7ekfWTcSki_GUWoRvhHWuYuOfaMZTGDpzVpqWhHGavHiErMO8/s1024/Rossa%20Street%20Art.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mu4EOXUUTvFvEtJN6u26v4U-bYCEYtkGA9V8hAWSNM6UzG4nTQNgK-5Avkv68qJSKmftLGZwpdYGyK1hpiZk-3VFxXrWnfniS3MdMFwLOoSBWVQCKXCN6Bb1lxCNjtcBMvioYX1DlV7ekfWTcSki_GUWoRvhHWuYuOfaMZTGDpzVpqWhHGavHiErMO8/s320/Rossa%20Street%20Art.jpeg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGzXGWnuetFnDiQz3jPsUSWGSQ37lOtLklX-4X7pLRq8kYvmdba4YmKTqssF5Ukf8ch9EKKaZvSRMHU-y_cfPOhv-2DdAoWh03nccdfduzTYVoGE2uogW4ceQRg0fJUIjarr4oQT40VZ4OiaiJ_DeXN78QwSAP8zdsaDCPK9-VH1aHuFyy6dcib7PpG0/s1024/NHS%20Street%20Art.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGzXGWnuetFnDiQz3jPsUSWGSQ37lOtLklX-4X7pLRq8kYvmdba4YmKTqssF5Ukf8ch9EKKaZvSRMHU-y_cfPOhv-2DdAoWh03nccdfduzTYVoGE2uogW4ceQRg0fJUIjarr4oQT40VZ4OiaiJ_DeXN78QwSAP8zdsaDCPK9-VH1aHuFyy6dcib7PpG0/s320/NHS%20Street%20Art.jpeg" width="240" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Mól An Óige.<br />
<br />
</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">If you are in Belfast between now
and November 9 call into the Gerard Dillon Gallery in An
Cultúrlan McAdam Ó Fiaich on the Falls Road and marvel at the brilliance of the
young students of Coláiste Feirste. Fair play to them all and to their
teachers. The future is bright. They are a valued and wonderful part of the
arts and wider community. A credit to themselves, their families, to Belfast
and Ireland. Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxz72-h9bR4bHkGuNXGt0WHlJszz5swYv5sD9KDxNaPryw2VBi784YMoatOZPHyLQHNYzDTy5uynoIbw0MJ9yNbXWdpUC-KtSbnbgi-gbV9ecsjJSFKxWsBg8Dxi5NDBa2N_xa4rqM7xKFd5dYbzBV_JT60xPMkEnmGG1Xi1ySs72r6JdPaN0ENC5DP0/s512/Colaiste%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="362" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxz72-h9bR4bHkGuNXGt0WHlJszz5swYv5sD9KDxNaPryw2VBi784YMoatOZPHyLQHNYzDTy5uynoIbw0MJ9yNbXWdpUC-KtSbnbgi-gbV9ecsjJSFKxWsBg8Dxi5NDBa2N_xa4rqM7xKFd5dYbzBV_JT60xPMkEnmGG1Xi1ySs72r6JdPaN0ENC5DP0/s320/Colaiste%20.jpg" width="226" /></a></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-86107325566467866552023-10-02T13:47:00.003+01:002023-10-02T13:47:59.199+01:00We must listen to each other: My Big Toe: Tom Dunn - the Peasant Patriot<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2XqfE2qAA5JlDu5Fh_VYM4hnwlbDZ5JRA0quH6s_Ni_byiHAr40Q3eH5WksqImsO_lb274b3SgUYg5NX5Ro9iO229yc5-Y7DspXynvdZTdEHBMjbW7CKH3gO8qdpnTmce86Qsuo5M3fDsVFPBMiCL4Fbv-DN92_wIyvineK5ETtYRFurbPcqIEp5Fsc/s1241/Derry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1173" data-original-width="1241" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2XqfE2qAA5JlDu5Fh_VYM4hnwlbDZ5JRA0quH6s_Ni_byiHAr40Q3eH5WksqImsO_lb274b3SgUYg5NX5Ro9iO229yc5-Y7DspXynvdZTdEHBMjbW7CKH3gO8qdpnTmce86Qsuo5M3fDsVFPBMiCL4Fbv-DN92_wIyvineK5ETtYRFurbPcqIEp5Fsc/s320/Derry.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Catherine Pollock, Catherine Cooke and Alison Wallace in Derry</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We must listen to each other</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.45pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Efforts by the British
government and the unionist parties to stymie the conversation on future
constitutional change has actually brought a greater focus on the growing
momentum around the upcoming unity referendum. The criticism of An
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar by the British Secretary of State and a range of
unionist voices for daring to suggest that a United Ireland will happen in his
lifetime is the latest example of unionist and Tory efforts to delegitimise the
goal of Irish Unity.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.45pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In their view it is not acceptable
to promote Irish Unity. This is presented by them as dangerous and
destabilising and is criticised and condemned with contempt. The
intention is to create a row so that United Irelanders will be quiet and to misrepresent
republican and nationalist aspirations as second class. Nonsense, bluster
and feigned outrage will not stop the conversation about the future. Listening
and learning makes more sense. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.45pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Twenty five years ago the
Good Friday Agreement acknowledged the “</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">equally legitimate,
political aspirations” of nationalists and unionists. The talks participants,
including the Irish and British governments, and subsequently the majority of
citizens in a referendum, accepted that the future had to be one based on
partnership, equality and mutual respect. The Agreement recognised the
birthright of all the people of the North to identify themselves and to be
accepted as Irish or British. A referendum process was agreed to determine the
future constitutional shape of the island of Ireland<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The DUP and the Tory government do not accept these
principles. That much is clear. They want to delay and dilute the changes that
are coming. But in their hearts they know they cannot stop them. That much is
clear also. The unity genie is out off the bottle. It is not going in
again. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In recent weeks Sinn Féin’s Commission on the
Future of Ireland has held two very successful public events. One was at the
Ploughing Championship last week in Laois. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMMYOvSgToyI-2XPHuOi8aFKYPI9FCi1s9iEyK-OKodGnLrmocBlL6MFg68BDslFIYUJvEKI-ftCd3Y3bNlGDe_s6HDs9CkrFUeuqUlW9kwD0KAidZ5fpbuOFAlDv-RCsjgEHwRkQ4eH2QcdyeET_qdChZQTq_3PLXAvnSNhFFHDz4qu-TCixxfqzSVg/s1170/Ploughing%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1150" data-original-width="1170" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMMYOvSgToyI-2XPHuOi8aFKYPI9FCi1s9iEyK-OKodGnLrmocBlL6MFg68BDslFIYUJvEKI-ftCd3Y3bNlGDe_s6HDs9CkrFUeuqUlW9kwD0KAidZ5fpbuOFAlDv-RCsjgEHwRkQ4eH2QcdyeET_qdChZQTq_3PLXAvnSNhFFHDz4qu-TCixxfqzSVg/s320/Ploughing%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPLPvzWGo6vKbvw7RnUZZS9lLmuIsr0ek8wUdrjHNpTyRIrf0yD3lMZ2OSeetzQt_3MMSxSgMqkMKE2mkzrQD6fSxzSCl4nZkIdgSdEfxsoM-BlNi3piSJWUWk8l1VSCYFS9kCHaQzT7iypiHfe_Z5-6kz-AX2JPrhJ338mA3Uvdm5Rusx_m8yDXkFQnw/s1170/Ploughing%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="1170" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPLPvzWGo6vKbvw7RnUZZS9lLmuIsr0ek8wUdrjHNpTyRIrf0yD3lMZ2OSeetzQt_3MMSxSgMqkMKE2mkzrQD6fSxzSCl4nZkIdgSdEfxsoM-BlNi3piSJWUWk8l1VSCYFS9kCHaQzT7iypiHfe_Z5-6kz-AX2JPrhJ338mA3Uvdm5Rusx_m8yDXkFQnw/s320/Ploughing%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This put a focus on the benefits
that Irish unity will bring to rural Ireland. The other event was held in Derry
where three women from the unionist section of our community participated in an
event billed as: “Exploring Northern Protestant Identities and Culture in a
Shared Future.” The three participants – all community based activists -
Catherine Pollock, Catherine Cooke and Alison Wallace are from that broad
tradition.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The event was very informative and the three women
spoke eloquently of the concerns and of the diversity of opinions and
traditions that exist within unionism. Speaking afterward Chairperson of the
event, Catherine Pollock said that she hoped those who attended would begin to
understand the “diversity of feeling, traditions and culture among the unionist
communities.” The conversation ranged across how people can engage and move
forward in civic and political conversations, on the environment, a citizens
Assembly on education, the marching bands and much more. Catherine Cooke hoped
that what they said would provide food for thought: “I came in feeling very
nervous but leave feeling very good.” Alison Wallace said: “People listened and <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">were very respectful.” She described it as a very positive experience.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">We need more of these events, of these
conversations. Irish republicans and nationalists must listen carefully and
attentively to what our Protestant/Unionists neighbours are saying in all of
their diversity. And we need to plan for the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Thus far the Sinn Féin Commission has held eight
public events, as well as sectoral engagements. Two more will be held by the
Commission in the coming months. There will be a Peoples’ Assembly in Waterford
on 12 October and another through Irish in the </span><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Galway Gaeltacht in November.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Incidentally during a recent visit to New York An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar
met US President Joe Biden. He said Mr Biden was very well informed on Irish
affairs and that he asked if there was any way he could help. Mr Varadkar says:
“I told him we had no specific ask at the moment …”</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It’s little wonder the British government
disrespects the Irish government the way it does. An Taoiseach needs to listen
and learn also. And to work with those who are prepared to help. In Ireland.
And internationally. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">My Big Toe<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Jim Donnelly is a Springhallion.
His mother, May Donnelly, was one of the indomit</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">a</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">ble warrior women from the Upper Springfield who faced down hordes of
British soldiers and RUC officers for decades while also combatting poverty and
discrimination and rearing a good family. These mighty women are to be found in
communities everywhere. The local ones are too many to name but I remember them
all and I am grateful for their friendship and protection and comradeship. And
I am always uplifted by the tenacity and good humour of these working class
heroines, mostly mothers of large families, including Mrs Donnelly. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEJIFVBlU34XvQDk2_cl4RAw26jnFsKTrcKoPyRaR3LlR9B3lSjq52LaQ9j8DjxHXPHX3YrN5glqO6v6Has_3_yRiNsNrcbfFAt-Y2V1ErWby_TRr2rIxbMWcfV4vV62sMtR5flP2iVijpEEV2z-US_AE37I-Tm3Qe3lw-gek60tGwgsPk7Qi16TK-I0/s1327/Jim%20Donnelly%20final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1327" data-original-width="1134" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEJIFVBlU34XvQDk2_cl4RAw26jnFsKTrcKoPyRaR3LlR9B3lSjq52LaQ9j8DjxHXPHX3YrN5glqO6v6Has_3_yRiNsNrcbfFAt-Y2V1ErWby_TRr2rIxbMWcfV4vV62sMtR5flP2iVijpEEV2z-US_AE37I-Tm3Qe3lw-gek60tGwgsPk7Qi16TK-I0/s320/Jim%20Donnelly%20final.jpg" width="273" /></a>Little wonder then that she
has a central role in Jim Donnelly’s book - My Big Toe. Jim is a community
activist from Springhill. Like many of his neighbours he is also a former
prisoner -he did nine years hard time. His life as a community
activist is dedicated, again like many others, to tackling
inequalities and developing a better society for all with a particular focus on
young people especially through his role as joint CEO with the Active Communities
Network.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Jim</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s journey through writing was
a difficult one. At school he was dismissed as ‘slow at everything he
does.’ He says he became like a ghost in the classroom. ‘I was there
but no one really noticed’. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In prison he read a lot. With
great difficulty. Ditto with his writing. It was a struggle. After his release
from prison he endured anxiety, depression and mental health issues. He then
went on to do a Higher Professional Diploma in Counselling. As part of this
course he had to keep a journal. This enabled him to explore his life and his
experiences. Later he studied for a Masters Degree. Again more reading and
writing. More challenges. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Jim almost abondoned this work
because it was too hard for him but his tutor got him to talk to an educational
psychologist. She told him he was dyslexic</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">.</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> He understood then why he had such a hard time with reading and
writing, why school work was so difficult. This gave him the impetus to
complete his masters degree - a great accomplishment for a disadvantaged
lad from Springhill. Jim is one of the many men and women who
succeeded against the odds. In all kinds of ways. In all sectors. And our
children or grandchildren have done even better. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Jim</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s book - poems and
prose- came to be published through the efforts of his friends
especially Danny Barkley. When Jim began writing on his phone he shared his
musings on W</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">h</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">atsApp
with Danny, Harry Connolly, Conor , Louise and other friends and family. Danny
thought Jim</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">s
work should be published. He talked to Harry about this but didn</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">t tell Jim</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">,</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> probably as Jim acknowledges
because </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I
wouldn</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">t
have been convinced</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">. My
Big Toe was published as a gift to Jim by his friends. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">So well done Danny and
company. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">My </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Big
Toe is brutally honest reflection on life growing up under military
occupation, in a large poor working class family in a republican community in
the time of conflict. It is frank about the traumas, hardships and indignities.
The ups and downs. But it is also funny and full of love. My Big Toe is a tale
of redemption. When I asked Jim how people can get a copy he laughed
and said </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Send
them to Danny Barkley</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">My Big Toe
is available in limited numbers from the author at Active
Communities Network, Twin Spires, Falls Road.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7QQN4Vxjl-6dcyY2GHKCwTWI7cT1UWboyy7BFEVUizN42FQ1H1LhBbbmlgUs4jtbXcBuWKnFhWSYY2W8FzBFjmfFT-_hPnrpKokfM9KEcmloRAzmlBFK-T25-5akEUqM8zLaOoTY4-O5QrlEE0FgB_nuG9ihdN_WrO6ppJ282F_vj8x2iHNpx8Ioz1s/s1094/Rostrevor.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1094" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7QQN4Vxjl-6dcyY2GHKCwTWI7cT1UWboyy7BFEVUizN42FQ1H1LhBbbmlgUs4jtbXcBuWKnFhWSYY2W8FzBFjmfFT-_hPnrpKokfM9KEcmloRAzmlBFK-T25-5akEUqM8zLaOoTY4-O5QrlEE0FgB_nuG9ihdN_WrO6ppJ282F_vj8x2iHNpx8Ioz1s/s320/Rostrevor.PNG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.45pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Tom Dunn – the Peasant Patriot</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.45pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Well done to the people of
Rostrevor who last week invited former President Mary McAleese to unveil a
bronze statue to Tom Dunn – the Peasant Patriot - a local hedge school master
and United Irish leader who taught ‘The Rights of Man’ by Tom Paine and the
writings of Wolfe Tone to local patriots. In 1797 Tom’s barn was raided by the
British and he was captured. He refused to name any of his comrades. He was
ordered to be lashed. He died, aged 62, after 260 lashes. Think about that dear
readers. 260 lashes. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd57kPKIAyw_QY12T2sHI4Z_EaEbMuCtGV6LrWd5pdjeJP3W-9cpIUveNevWPfFPCxXC07QoBmu4lB210wIYJSQzZE8Tnnf-aaXzhKXlUGhhVRyrk2hYE1BAWGVBJH-jNzj41LbUX2c6fIPZha96xgmkPyG0c2jfkTBDbiF_k8bXOU05R-Kc3zJoXE_aA/s1560/Two%20local%20heroes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd57kPKIAyw_QY12T2sHI4Z_EaEbMuCtGV6LrWd5pdjeJP3W-9cpIUveNevWPfFPCxXC07QoBmu4lB210wIYJSQzZE8Tnnf-aaXzhKXlUGhhVRyrk2hYE1BAWGVBJH-jNzj41LbUX2c6fIPZha96xgmkPyG0c2jfkTBDbiF_k8bXOU05R-Kc3zJoXE_aA/s320/Two%20local%20heroes.jpg" width="240" /></a></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-66926627347527759842023-09-27T10:53:00.004+01:002023-09-27T10:53:47.130+01:00Lough Neagh facing an ecological disaster: Tory backing for Pinochet: Siúlóid An Taoisigh. <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_DA1BBiaSIg71Mc8ostCKe-0iucLjVX5OuQs1WjnQ0YE2coRFclUUwrIVvPptCr0_lQXWYmuJwbUeZLA1An1RcAre8HduL1j-M7c_mAXTb2Id53EvBQLCEG7jt-Xi5YvE5vtTdZR09C2plEnkCww2xuceSB5Yr9DgNcVhfCun3Y4AiMouOjQ1D7RdU8/s932/Francie%20Molloy%20MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="932" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_DA1BBiaSIg71Mc8ostCKe-0iucLjVX5OuQs1WjnQ0YE2coRFclUUwrIVvPptCr0_lQXWYmuJwbUeZLA1An1RcAre8HduL1j-M7c_mAXTb2Id53EvBQLCEG7jt-Xi5YvE5vtTdZR09C2plEnkCww2xuceSB5Yr9DgNcVhfCun3Y4AiMouOjQ1D7RdU8/s320/Francie%20Molloy%20MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Mid Ulster MP Francie Molloy at Lough Neagh</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Lough Neagh facing an ecological disaster</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Up
the Shore</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">i<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The lough will claim a
victim every year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It has virtue that
hardens wood to stone.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There is a town sunk
beneath its water.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">It is the scar left by
the Isle of Man.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">ii<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">At Toomebridge where
it sluices towards the sea<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">They’ve set new gates
and tanks against the flow.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">From time to time they
break the eels’ journey<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And lift five hundred
stones in one go.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">iii<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">But up the shore in
Antrim and Tyrone<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There is a sense of
fair play in the game.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The fishermen confront
them one by one<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And sail miles out and
never learn to swim.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Iv<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">‘We’ll be the quicker
going down,’ they say.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">And when you argue
there are no storms here,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">That one hour
floating’s sure to land them safely –<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">‘The lough will claim
a victim every year.’<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Seamus Heaney’s poem, published in 1969, captures
much of what makes Lough Neagh unique. It has long been a place of myth and fable,
where the palace of the Tuatha Dé Danann is supposed to lie beneath its waves.
It is said that Lough Neagh was created by the giant Finn McCool who legend
claims scooped out a huge chunk of earth and threw it after the Scottish giant
Benandonner. He missed and thus created the Isle of Man. Richard believes that
the Lough was created 400 million years ago as a result of
massive tectonic events.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">People have lived and worked around the shores
of Lough Neagh for thousands of years. This is evident in the
huge number of artefacts and ruins. Stone axes have been found
at Toome and Shanes Castle. Neolithic pottery has also been
found at Newferry north of Toome.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In the ninth century the Lough was a base for a
Viking fleet as part of their efforts to occupy Ireland. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following the English invasion of Ireland the
shores of Lough Neagh have witnessed many battles. It played a strategically
important role in the English defeat of the O’Neill and O’Donnell clans in the
late 16<sup>th</sup> century and in the subsequent plantation of Ulster.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Lough is the largest fresh water lake in
Ireland. It is home to many rare plants, waterfowl and fish. It is bordered by
five counties – Antrim, Down, Armagh, Tyrone and Derry. For millennia it has
been at the heart of the local economy. A transport hub before roads and a
major source of fishing that has provided a living for the generations who have
lived around its’ almost 400 square kilometres. It is a significant cultural
and historic site and in more recent years a place for water sports and
relaxation for tens of thousands. It also provides 40% of the fresh water for
citizens living in the North.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Today all of that is under threat. Recent satellite
images have shown the extent to which a toxic blue green algae has infested the
Lough. Cyanobacteria is a danger to animals and humans. According to the Lough
Neagh Partnership climate change and the increased water temperature of the
Lough has created the conditions for this algae to thrive.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In addition millions of tons of sand have been
dredged from the floor of the Lough for building projects here and in Britain.
In an article by Tommy Green in The Detail last December he reported that
around 30% of the North’s “<i>construction sand comes from Lough Neagh … Prior
to 2021, when extraction was unregulated, it is estimated that at least 1.1m
-1.8m tonnes were being dredged from the Lough every year…”</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcFavsiXfiE0AXKGMqCrTuxI0gRE7GAz8ScpkX9-qcB45MMuWVB-8OLemzM0zOvSSgwOdHp0ccDQ4liuw63mj97o140yI9UbDka8p1-PIacr8KXHtT07KJSQgGZIM14DBulDD-Rx5WUTKjZpaQFb-T6ks8eWVeLCmE1IENaaNe1kjnQesR3hMj4paoBY/s4000/Sinn%20F%C3%A9in%20reps%20meet%20Lough%20Neagh%20Partnership.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcFavsiXfiE0AXKGMqCrTuxI0gRE7GAz8ScpkX9-qcB45MMuWVB-8OLemzM0zOvSSgwOdHp0ccDQ4liuw63mj97o140yI9UbDka8p1-PIacr8KXHtT07KJSQgGZIM14DBulDD-Rx5WUTKjZpaQFb-T6ks8eWVeLCmE1IENaaNe1kjnQesR3hMj4paoBY/s320/Sinn%20F%C3%A9in%20reps%20meet%20Lough%20Neagh%20Partnership.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>Sinn Féin team meet Lough Neagh Partnership</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co-operative Society
warned last year that sand extraction was destroying habitat areas on the floor
of the Lough and that this was reducing the number of fish. The
impact of the climate crisis, the presence of a toxic algae, the incidence of
raw sewage and the dredging of the Lough floor and the destruction of that
critical underwater environment, mean that Lough Neagh is now facing an
ecological disaster. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">With 40% of the North’s population relying on Lough
Neagh for fresh, clean water there is mounting concern that none of the
government departments are prepared for or appear willing to take the steps
necessary to protect this hugely important community and environmental asset.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Last week First Minister designate Michelle
O’Neill, Francie Molloy MP, Declan Kearney MLA and Philip McGuigan MLA met with
the Lough Neagh Partnership. Later Declan Kearney led a political and
community delegation, including Philip McGuigan, locally based councillors,
fishermen, anglers and the Lough Neagh Partnership, to meet senior
officials of the NI Environment Agency and Inland Fisheries.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The message is clear. As Mid Ulster MP Francie
Molloy said<i>: “The situation is untenable. The Lough needs to be brought into
public ownership and managed by a community partnership.” </i> This
must include the bed of the Lough which is currently owned by an absentee
British Earl who receives royalty payments for every tonne of sands extracted
from the bed of the Lough.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There is also an urgent need for a comprehensive
and co-ordinated action plan to tackle the toxic algae. A multi-agency and
inter-departmental task force is a priority. Public ownership will facilitate a
clear management structure to provide immediate and long-term plans to keep the
Lough safe and sustainable for future generations.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">When I was a young lad a gang of us from Ballymurphy led by Joe Magee
used to walk to Lough Neagh and spend the day there. Decades later in Long Kesh
some of us used to feast on Lough Neagh eels sent to us by the bucket full. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The
story of Lough Neagh is an integral part of the story and history and
environment of the island of Ireland. The ecological crisis it currently faces
arises from the actions of human beings. It is our responsibility to change
that.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFuwvoi6IccA2DvcKUjUm0g9ORlryLEznJM9S_bkeulHB3-nqwIKz6Kfu59tN8Hf6ZPOJiaR5IZgUL0-f4omvjc8NMB8-ufMCx62CZzOD-fFxDFC4JTiVmuBay5djsQeqz1UOclNo-U7i38OPh80u0AiS4xXaN6h6wM9lmyt-wyLnwJGQoU5E4ABrAJk/s1014/Michelle%20and%20Gerry%20Darby%20of%20the%20Lough%20Neagh%20Partnership.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="1014" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFuwvoi6IccA2DvcKUjUm0g9ORlryLEznJM9S_bkeulHB3-nqwIKz6Kfu59tN8Hf6ZPOJiaR5IZgUL0-f4omvjc8NMB8-ufMCx62CZzOD-fFxDFC4JTiVmuBay5djsQeqz1UOclNo-U7i38OPh80u0AiS4xXaN6h6wM9lmyt-wyLnwJGQoU5E4ABrAJk/s320/Michelle%20and%20Gerry%20Darby%20of%20the%20Lough%20Neagh%20Partnership.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> <span> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Michelle O'Neill with the Gerry Darby of the Lough Neagh Partnership</span></b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Tory backing for Pinochet</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Many of my generation will remember the military
coup in Chile in September 1973 that overthrew the socialist President of Chile
Salvador Allende. The images of the bombing of the Presidential Palace, of an
armed and courageous Allende defending the building and the quickly emerging
reports of brutality by the Chilean military, horrified many around the world.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The coup was led by General Augusto Pinochet in
collusion with the CIA. In the years that followed Chile became a byword in
summary executions, torture and repression. Almost 20 years later when the
regime fell a truth commission revealed that 40,000 people had been tortured,
200,000 had been forced to flee the country and at least 3,000 were
killed. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The British government led Edward Heath strongly
supported the junta. Foreign Secretary Alec Douglas Home wrote that: “For
British interests … there is no doubt that Chile under the junta is a better
prospect … and the sky-high price of copper (important to us) should fall as
Chilean production is restored.” One third of Britain’s copper imports
came from Chile. Allende’s nationalisation of the copper industry in July 1971
had been condemned by the USA and Britain.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The Labour government that followed Heath imposed
sanctions on Chile but during Margaret Thatcher’s tenure as Prime Minister she
restored diplomatic relations; authorised visits by British Ministers to Chile;
and lifted the arms embargo. Hundreds of members of the Chilean armed forces
were trained by the British and in September 1982 the Thatcher government
refused to support a motion at the UN condemning Pinochet’s human rights
abuses. British political and economic interest once again trumped human rights
and international law.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">In October 1998 Pinochet was arrested in London.
Not surprisingly Margaret Thatcher campaigned hard to secure his release. He
was returned to Chile in March 2000. By their friends we will know them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiYah0pRrVHq4WEB-f5ZNz6KK8ebvOkAy1lrg_HtcADFUA1EswTvUhZdMk23_S7Dhqu3AKEJIapCcCILoZrXclaHayxjsIFXyyDIKXZTRA3ix5n0OzXLQVZ_TIWMPqL5DjomhXHGDCKSn626nJvppDNruExFJtFMI6aQ-oBgKbHiKR493aL3UeAa4-Vg/s1170/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20with%20Bernie%20McGuinness%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1170" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiYah0pRrVHq4WEB-f5ZNz6KK8ebvOkAy1lrg_HtcADFUA1EswTvUhZdMk23_S7Dhqu3AKEJIapCcCILoZrXclaHayxjsIFXyyDIKXZTRA3ix5n0OzXLQVZ_TIWMPqL5DjomhXHGDCKSn626nJvppDNruExFJtFMI6aQ-oBgKbHiKR493aL3UeAa4-Vg/s320/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20with%20Bernie%20McGuinness%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Siúlóid
An Taoisigh.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This
column had a great day out in Derryat The Chieftain’s Walk organised
by The Martin McGuinness Peace Foundation and Martin’s family led by his wife
Bernie. There was a similar event in New York. Well done to all involved. It
was good to meet many of Martin’s old friends and to walk the ground he trod on
many, many times. Despite the rain there was a great turn out. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnJpx-oghVe1zyqOFQLFAxjS8JhsyF_SmLocJQ3sh1eLw4YUdOIApTFDYL5b0kGyVf8ctJsI2RjgLzmc8o3uxq8F_YcqS4zeqcYOiGbTjJXLDlPvOCAKq9Jpr-ZcNy6gNUPFp2xRX_NVVNnheuHFj2X-Bq3StG6Z97n06Mn4fbNFheVaAX5TGKX2WBKs/s916/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20New%20York%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="916" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnJpx-oghVe1zyqOFQLFAxjS8JhsyF_SmLocJQ3sh1eLw4YUdOIApTFDYL5b0kGyVf8ctJsI2RjgLzmc8o3uxq8F_YcqS4zeqcYOiGbTjJXLDlPvOCAKq9Jpr-ZcNy6gNUPFp2xRX_NVVNnheuHFj2X-Bq3StG6Z97n06Mn4fbNFheVaAX5TGKX2WBKs/s320/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20New%20York%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>New York</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVuVlSEeh-YjIFRUTuz-1jm9w7mzwA7sjNG2M1zYSGl-JXGnwWvv3NgwX86Gho8VteT0OYw6VZ78TtqLBUGJCZ-D3EC4l8tRwYmtbm5bEAAv2u6g24linADJrY3WUle6H2pqaLBM4fmuVbE_aAOC4pKuoqHT4WnyKXKsmIge0Ud6SmrMhavMWmlPtsho/s1064/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="894" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVuVlSEeh-YjIFRUTuz-1jm9w7mzwA7sjNG2M1zYSGl-JXGnwWvv3NgwX86Gho8VteT0OYw6VZ78TtqLBUGJCZ-D3EC4l8tRwYmtbm5bEAAv2u6g24linADJrY3WUle6H2pqaLBM4fmuVbE_aAOC4pKuoqHT4WnyKXKsmIge0Ud6SmrMhavMWmlPtsho/s320/The%20Chieftain's%20Walk%20.jpg" width="269" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Derry</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><br /></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-87012969480692231632023-09-18T15:08:00.001+01:002023-09-18T15:08:28.424+01:00Time to say Yes to Palestinian State: Raising Awareness about Sepsis: Sláinte<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Time
to say Yes to Palestinian State</span></b></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Last
week the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin visited
Israel, the West Bank and Jordan. It was an opportunity for the Irish
government to take a firm stand against Israeli aggression and its apartheid
system of governance. Instead Mr. Martin became little more than a commentator
on the ongoing and worsening crisis in that region.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">While
Mr. Martin was occasionally critical in his public remarks of the expansion of
Israeli settlements into Palestinian land and concerned at the daily attacks by
Israeli settlers on Palestinian homes and families there was little of
substance to his visit. With Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu making
clear there would be no change in Israeli policy and his government’s veto over
any possibility of viable negotiations toward a peace agreement, it needs more
than meaningless rhetoric from An Tánaiste. It needs action from the Irish
government to give peace a chance. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
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</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
alt="https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif" style='width:.75pt;
height:.75pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\DELLE5~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.gif"
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><img alt="https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif" height="1" src="file:///C:/Users/DELLE5~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.gif" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1" width="1" /><!--[endif]--></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Three months ago members
of the ‘Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory,
including East Jerusalem’, visited Dublin. The Commission was established by
the United Nations following the 11-day Israeli bombardment of the besieged
Gaza Strip in May 2021. Two hundred and fifty Palestinians and 13 Israeli’s
were killed in that period. While praising the cross party approach in Leinster
House the Commissioners said “at this stage of the situation on the ground,
mere statements – no matter how progressive are not sufficient. We need more
action.”</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">There
was no action from Mr. Martin. Rather he chose to urge the Palestinian leaders
“to take risks in terms of the pursuit of peace.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">In 2015 the Oireachtas supported a motion calling
on the Irish government to recognise the State of Palestine. <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif";"><i>It
refuses to do so claiming that such a move must be part of a new peace
agreement. And yet Micheál Martin last week acknowledged that on the basis of
his conversations with Israeli leaders: “I don’t see any immediate signs of a
change in direction.” </i>And why should they when the Irish government and others
stand aside and facilitate Israeli aggression?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If the Irish government is serious
about peace in the Middle East it should move immediately toward
recognising the State of Palestine and using its membership of the European
Union and the United Nations and its international influence to
persuade others to do likewise. It’s time for action.</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><em><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></em><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Raising
Awareness about Sepsis</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The
month of September has been designated as Sepsis Awareness Month. Sepsis is not
a condition that often attracts attention but across the island of Ireland
annually there are an estimated twenty two thousand cases of sepsis. Of these,
approximately three and half thousand victims die. In the South sepsis kills
more people than breast cancer, prostate cancer and AIDS combined. Sepsis also
is the number one killer in deaths in hospitals in the USA. Every year 350,000
people die from it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">While
thousands of miles apart two Irish families, one in Ireland and the other in
the USA, who have been tragically touched by sepsis, have initiated campaigns
to draw attention to this silent killer.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In New
York in 2012 Rory Staunton, the 12 year old son of Ciaran and Orlaith, died
four days after taking ill. I knew Rory. He was an articulate, enthusiastic,
intelligent and very astute young person. He fell ill after playing basketball
in school where he slightly cut his arm in a fall. Overnight he became
feverish, vomited and developed a pain in his leg. He was taken to hospital
where essential warning signs were missed. He eventually ended up in intensive
care but four days after the accident he died of septic shock.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ciaran
and Orlaith established the ‘End Sepsis, the legacy of Rory Staunton’
Foundation and have fought tirelessly since then to introduce ‘Rory’s
Regulations’ – new rules and protocols - to ensure that medical staff are
trained to recognise the symptoms of sepsis. It is estimated that 20,000 lives
in New York State alone have been saved by their efforts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Last
week the case of 15 year old Seán Hughes from Dublin was highlighted. He died
from sepsis in 2018. His father Joe described his son as a “healthy young man”
who was a “singer, entertainer, comedian and best friend to all who had the
pleasure of knowing him.” Seán was a well known and popular rapper who had
performed under the stage name Lil Red in the Aviva Stadium and the National
Concert Hall.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In
January 2018 he came home from school with what appeared to be flu-like
symptoms similar to a chest infection. He was eventually taken to hospital
where doctors “were baffled as they had absolutely no clue what was wrong.”
Sean died after four days. The family only discovered at the inquest that the
cause of death was sepsis, a disease they had never heard of before.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Like
Ciaran and Orlaith in New York Seán’s parents, Joe and Karen, decided to raise
public awareness about sepsis. They have established ‘Lil Red’s Legacy Sepsis
Awareness Campaign.’ This includes Sean’s parents going to schools, colleges
and sports clubs to make their presentation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Well
done to these two families who have courageously who despite their heartache
are actively involved in trying to help others.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Awareness
is hugely important but so too is training and resources for family doctors and
hospitals. If you have concerns information on sepsis is available at </span><a href="https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/sepsis" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/sepsis</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> and </span><a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/sepsis/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/sepsis/</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Sláinte<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">A friend of mine has told me that he is thinking of giving up
the drink. He has been saying the same thing for the last ten years so you will
understand if I dont take him too seriously. In the past his desire to be
abstemious coincided with his hangovers. When the hangover retreated
so did his desire to be teetotal. But this time he seems to be more
serious.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">It</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">s my age</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> he told me </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">m not fit to drink the way I used
to. A couple of pints and I</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">m stupored. And then I have to run
to the toilet for the rest of the night, especially in the middle of the night.
My bladder does be like a hard hat.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">He looked at me across the table. We were in a pub. He was drinking alcohol
free beer. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Alcohol free beer misses the whole
point</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I observed. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">And it probably has the same porous effect on your bladder.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Probably s</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">o” </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">he replied</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“B</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">ut the taste is the same and you don</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">t feel like a tube drinking water or
a soft drink in company. There is also a limit on how much water you can drink.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">He gazed forlornly at my pint. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">We Irish drink too much anyway</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">, he continued. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">No more than any other society</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">” </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I suggested.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Maybe so</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> he conceded </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">but we drink differently. We drink
to get drunk. Others drink with their food or in a measured way. A few glasses</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">. </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Not us. We go out for a session. To
get plastered. I can</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">t hack getting stocious any more.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Fair enough</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I agreed with him. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">So drink less. You don</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">t need to get legless.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I rarely get legless</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> he responded. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">m well able to hold my drink. You
know that. But having just one or two drinks on a night out? That</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">s easier said than done.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> He said sadly. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">First you get the bottle. Then the
bottle gets you</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">.”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">So how long are you off the drink</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I asked. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Since last night.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I wish you well</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I replied, resisting the temptation to ridicule him. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I will let you know how I get on</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">, he smiled
determinedly. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Are you off buying drink as well</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I queried. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Mines a pint and it</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">s your round.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Maith go leor</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> he said. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">By the way a wee bit of advice for you</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> I continued. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Don</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">’</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">t broadcast it that you are off the
drink. Too many of our friends take pleasure when people go on the
wagon and then fall off it again. Just say you’re not drinking that night.
You’re driving. Or you’re minding the grand kids. Or you have something to do
early in the morning.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Good advice</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> he said. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Dont you tell anyone.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;"><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">“</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">Ok</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">” </span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">I replied</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">. “</span><span lang="GA" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: GA; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">My lips are sealed.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;">”<o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004730508631468243.post-26445453234174048932023-09-11T16:43:00.000+01:002023-09-11T16:43:03.343+01:00Unique Robert Ballagh Moore Street Print; You Are Never Alone With A Book: Walking with my Mother<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTQvnWx4pHIypZq2Aps63k9RtUOMRw3-bsExXOxjEISP54SCxaH4m7Uq0Qi_ZBQszmDwq1yIk3qcHpazlU7V59GWAbZ1Ar3Vgp5TE4DP-Sft1uYVGfb32g88erENJBjyrTGDx8uTakDWal5JFonAtlpbHfoA9edObvgoKFPlWZq4LYVnckl0D1Va7qC0/s4032/Robert%20Ballagh%20Moore%20St%20Print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTQvnWx4pHIypZq2Aps63k9RtUOMRw3-bsExXOxjEISP54SCxaH4m7Uq0Qi_ZBQszmDwq1yIk3qcHpazlU7V59GWAbZ1Ar3Vgp5TE4DP-Sft1uYVGfb32g88erENJBjyrTGDx8uTakDWal5JFonAtlpbHfoA9edObvgoKFPlWZq4LYVnckl0D1Va7qC0/s320/Robert%20Ballagh%20Moore%20St%20Print.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br /></p><p><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Unique Robert
Ballagh Moore Street Print</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">As regular readers of
this column know I have been involved for a very long time in the campaign to
protect and develop as a historic and cultural quarter the Moore St. Terrace
and its environs in Dublin. The entire terrace 10-25 Moore Street was occupied
by the evacuated GPO garrison at the end of Easter Week 1916. The developer -
Hammerson - wants to demolish much of the terrace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The Moore St.
Preservation Trust, with the support of relatives of the 1916 leaders, is
working with a legal team to prepare a legal challenge should An Bord Pleanála
decide to grant Hammerson permission to knock down any part of this historic
terrace. All of this will involve significant costs. As part of the Trust’s
campaign to raise awareness, and to raise funding for any legal challenge, the
Moore Street Preservation Trust will tonight be launching a new image of
the last meeting of the Provisional Government following the Easter Rising in
1916 by the renowned Irish artist Robert Ballagh. The launch and presentation
of the print will take place in the Mansion House in Dublin at 7pm.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">This exclusive limited
edition of 200 prints (60 by 60 cm) is individually signed and numbered by
Robert Ballagh on museum quality paper and printed with archival inks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The scene depicted in
his painting captures the last meeting of the Provisional Government that took
place in Number 16 Moore Street following their retreat from the burning GPO.
It was there at this meeting attended by Pádraig Pearse, Seán Mac Diarmada,
Joseph Plunkett, Tom Clarke and a wounded James Connolly that the decision was
taken to surrender to the British forces. Also present at the meeting were
Volunteers Winifred Carney, Julia Grennan and Nurse Elizabeth O’Farrell who a short
time later accompanied Pearse when he presented the notice of surrender to the
British. The women of 1916 are rarely given their proper place in that
story. Robert Ballagh’s print redresses this through the inclusion of these
three republican activists who played a central role in those historic events.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">This striking new
print entitled simply ‘HQ Moore Street 1916’ is being released for sale at Euro
150 or £150 per print. Each signed print is sure to become a valuable
collector’s piece. The print will be available this evening following
the launch at the Mansion House. It can be purchased through </span><a href="http://www.arasuichonghaile.com/moorestreet"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">www.arasuichonghaile.com/moorestreet</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I have my copy
ordered. I am confident that these unique prints by Bobby will go quickly.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">You Are Never
Alone With A Book. </span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> I’m glad to say
I finished reading a few books over the last month so I will update you on them
over the next couple of weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">First off is The
Ghost Limb by Claire Mitchell. This is an intriguing read and Ms Mitchell is a
persuasive writer, gentle, witty and positive. She describes herself as an
alternative Protestant and Ghost Limb has a sub-title ‘Alternative Protestants
and the Spirit of 1798’. In this compelling book a group of these
citizens retrace the steps of the United Irishmen - and women- who worked for
the unity of Catholic, Protestant and Dissenter over two hundred years ago as a
means to end the connection with England.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">They trek across
graveyards and old churches, pubs and battlefield sites in County Antrim and
Down and in Belfast's back entries. They rediscover this part of their heritage
and explore why it has been misremembered or not remembered except by a
faithful few who reject the notion of Northern Protestants as a
monolithic right wing insular and anti progressive, anti Irish group. Northern
Protestants are not all like that they say. Not historically. Not now.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Ms Mitchell also
presents the vision of 1798 - of a rights based anti-sectarian equality
proofed society- as the democratic solution to our political problems. I
recommend this book to anyone trying to understand the dynamics of northern
society in this time of change. There is a lot of learning to be done by us
all. Making space to rediscover who we are is part of that. Claire
Mitchell’s book has made a mighty and positive contribution to that
necessary task. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The Ghost Limb is
published by www.beyondthepale.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Michael Magee was one
of the guests at Scribes at The Rock during Féile An Phobail. He read from his
new novel Close To Home. Scribes is a Féile highlight, a creation of Danny
Morrison and now twenty-two-years old. Scribes not Danny. Michael Magee was
joined by Michelle Gallen reading Factory Girls and Paul Murray reading The Bee
Sting. More of these at another time. All in all another great event.
Well done, Danny. Belated apologies to the woman who appeared to be annoyed at
me bunking the queue to have my books signed. Mea culpa. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">And well done Michael
Magee and the other Scribes’ readers. Close to Home is an in-your-face,
fast-paced graphic account of a twenty-year-old Sean and his mates and family
living in West Belfast and mired in poverty, addiction and trauma. Sean has
just returned from university in England but he is soon sucked back into the
life he had temporarily escaped from. His story is told by Michael Magee with
brutal honesty. Sean knows that a better life is possible but surviving the
daily challenges of existing on the edge of a community coming out of
conflict with multiple social and economic challenges threatens to drown
him in excesses of drug and alcohol binges and casual random violence. So
he struggles to survive and to readjust. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I read Close To Home
in two goes. I am undecided yet about whether Michael lets the reader
fully into Sean’s emotional responses to the definitive stages of his
transition. That element of the novel has stayed with me. I consider
it a good thing that I am unsure of this. I read Close To Home two weeks
ago and I am still puzzling over this part of it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Undoubtedly, Close To
Home does convey the young man’s emotional sense of his community, of family,
particularly his relationship with his mother and his estranged father
and the multi-traumas endured by friends, workmates and his brother Anto. His
depiction of the people of West Belfast, or that part of us which is portrayed
in his novel, also rings true. Including his mother’s attitude to the
IRA. So a very fine novel indeed and one which will stay with you long after
you read it. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Close To Home is
Michael Magee’s debut novel and is published by Picador.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Walking with
my Mother</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Our mother Annie
Hannaway – Annie Adams died on the 4th September 1992. Her spirit lives on in
the memory of our family and those who knew her. Here’s a little poem I wrote a
few years ago. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxyGcKiD8rQFGsvtGKUDjmopScuelS6MkVeOLbr3ncHxP85JXplyShs7S6ydzwWv4K1N76nDJDe5vStEO3NqnQ9FzxM1vSjMALAzW8j7Ezh0_d-f_pBFif6L9Q1B3URUqpoamFdWRqRwQmN5vQq8uagAH19a7QYyoM46FY3ZdipeKxo8eG00Tz85dkco/s720/Annie%20Adams%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="441" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxyGcKiD8rQFGsvtGKUDjmopScuelS6MkVeOLbr3ncHxP85JXplyShs7S6ydzwWv4K1N76nDJDe5vStEO3NqnQ9FzxM1vSjMALAzW8j7Ezh0_d-f_pBFif6L9Q1B3URUqpoamFdWRqRwQmN5vQq8uagAH19a7QYyoM46FY3ZdipeKxo8eG00Tz85dkco/s320/Annie%20Adams%20.jpg" width="196" /></a></p><p><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Walking with
my Mother</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">My mother died in
1992.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">In 2007 I met her.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">On the back road above
Cashelnagore.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The August sunshine
lit up<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">The scarlet fushia and
the montbretia<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">And the white of her
hair.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">As I walked behind her<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">She picked wildflowers<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">From the ditches.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Then at a gap in the
hedge<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">She turned and smiled
at me.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">‘Lá deas ata ann’ she
said.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">‘It’s a nice day’.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">I walked on.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Alone.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif";">Wondering how this
could be.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Gerry Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00106435155105107981noreply@blogger.com0