Monday, October 04, 2010

South Armagh Youth Day a Great Success

Over 60 young people gathered in the Ti Chullain Centre, South Armagh for a Youth Day on Saturday 2nd October.

The event had local young people, Ógra Shinn Féin and Sinn Féin College cumann activists in attendance.

The day's proceedings were opened by republican veteran and current Mayor of Newry/Mourne, Mick Murphy before Conor Murphy MP/MLA give an address.

Conor spoke about his life in struggle and the interesting journey he took from being an IRA volunteer involved in armed struggle, to being an elected activist and Minister in the Assembly.

He noted the huge bravery and sacrifices endured by republicans but also the huge progress which had been made. Conor also stressed the need for young people not to become complacent and to realise that they too have ownership of the struggle and it will be their energy and vision that will achieve the new and United Ireland for which so many paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Following a hardy lunch, the young activists watched the new production 'South Armagh - A Century of Struggle', before 2 former political prisoners of war Jimmy Fox and Miceal Caraher spoke of their personal experiences as republican activists, the work they are currently involved in, and the opportunities which exist for the current generation of young republicans.

To bring the excellent day to a successful close, Mary Lou McDonald, Vice President of Sinn Féin spoke of the current situation in Ireland and outlined Sinn Féin's vision for ending partition and creating a New Ireland which will banish the inequality and division which has blighted our beautiful country.


She also stressed the huge role that young republicans have always played and will continue to play in the future and only through our commitment, determination and ingenuity will we succeed in our republican objectives.


No comments: