Wednesday, December 02, 2009

CIT Ógra Shinn Féin Launch

A large group of republicans gathered in Cork last Thursday for the official launch of the new Cumann in Cork Institute of Technology at An Spailpín Fánach in Cork City. The event included a showing of Terry George’s 1996 film “Some Mother’s Son” which was followed by a very enjoyable music performance by Sean Ó Sé and a sing-song session with contributions from all around the room.


Speakers on the night included Ógra Shinn Féin National Organiser Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire and Cork City Councillor Jonathon O’Brien, a founder member of Ógra who gave an inspiring speech on the role of youth in republicanism and who documented his own time in Ógra to those in attendance.


Chair Joe Lynch, having given a review of the campaigns undertaken by the Cumann since its formation in September, had this to say “...we can’t be content with already being the most active political party in the college, we can’t stop there and we won’t rest on our laurels, the real work begins now. The signs are extremely positive though, in the past six weeks I’ve seen nothing but commitment and drive on the part of my new comrades and as the Cumann matures with further recruits being brought on board who are in turn familiarised with Sinn Féin policy and structures there is no reason why can’t eventually emulate more established Cumainn in terms of campaigning on the issues affecting the people of this island, and recruiting and educating young activists.”


Following the various speeches the film was shown to a very enthusiastic audience and upon its conclusion the music kicked off, ending with a rousing rendition of Amhrán na bhFiann some time after midnight.
Vice-Chair Niamh Kerins commenting afterwards was pleased with the level of support from those in attendance “it was great to see so many people there supporting CIT Ógra, we won’t let them down” and PRO Jason Kelly commented “a great time was had, what a shame we can only have a launch once!”
All those in attendance agreed a great night was had and the Cumann can look forward to the year ahead and beyond with optimism following a great show of support from senior party members, Ógra activists from other Cumainn and from fellow students and supporters alike.

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