UCC Ógra Remember the Hungerstrikers

Ciarán MacConaglaigh
UCC ÓSF
Martin Hurson Cumann

The night of the 30th of January was a proud night for the UCC Martin Hurson Cumann, as the sound of the Youghal Republican flute band echoed off the walls of the Quad of UCC. This commemoration followed on from last years vigil that was held by the members of the Martin Hurson Cumann in UCC to commemorate the 10 brave men who gave their life’s in 1981.

There were however several differences between the commemorations held this year and the one held last year. Most notably was the inclusion of the Youghal Republican flute band, which UCC Sinn Féin would like to thank for attending. They added immensely to the atmosphere as they played through the University. The numbers were even a surprise to the Cumann as many more people attended the commemoration; this is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the members of UCC cumann.

The commemoration commenced in the Amphitheatre outside the Student centre and from there passed through the Quad and beside the Aula Maxima, a place that used to be home to a statue of Queen Victoria. From there the march continued to the Republican Plaque at Gaol Cross and a wreath was laid as Ruadhain MacAodhain gave an oration in Irish.

The march then proceeded to the Republican plot in UCC where Ken O’Connor gave a rousing oration on the Republican struggle, its past, its present and its future. The Chair of UCC Ógra, Ken Ahern, then read out the Proclamation of 1916, before there was a minute’s silence for the memory of all our fallen Comrades.

This has been a time of great change within the Republican movement. However the members of UCC Ógra saw last night as our step to the strengthening of our movement in Cork. It was a very proud night for me as a Republican, as it was for the rest of the Cumann, to see such a large turn out assembled in UCC to mark this event, a place that is traditionally hostile to Republican Politics.

We will remain United Comrades, We will go forward in our struggle for a United 32 County Socialist Republic, and the fact that such a successful event of this nature was held in UCC is testament to the fact that more and more people are hearing our message and want the same.

Comrades onwards to the 32 County Socialist Republic.

Tiocfaidh ár la!