Successful National Youth Camp '07

There was a large presence of Ógra Shinn Féin and young Republicans at the Coiste youth camp ’07. Activists from all over Ireland gathered in Ballintoy, Co Antrim for the action packed weekend of events. The youth camp included, Sinn Fein’s Martina Anderson who spoke on women in struggle with particular relevance to the women involved in the run up to and rebellion of 1798. This was followed by a question and answer session.

Friday nights' entertainment was provided by up and coming band, Paddywagon. Dancing continued late into the night and a great night was had by one and all.

Saturday morning came early for some of those who availed of the previous night’s entertainment with Paddywagon. The first item on the Clár was a trip to Murlough bay, where Rodger Casement asked to be buried before being executed for his role in procuring arms for the Easter Rising. The walk covering a number of miles, cleared everyone’s head from the night before and re-invigorated everyone for a day full of political activities.

Following the return from Murlogh bay, the main speaker of the weekend, George Galloway was introduced. He spoke at length of international issues, such as the war on Iraq , the Lebanon, occupation of Palestine and also spoke of his support for the freedom struggle in Ireland .

Moving on from George Galloway’s talk, there was a panel discussion on young people and politics, Daithi McKay spoke on behalf of Sinn Féin and he was joined by Matthew McDermott of the SDLP. A lively debate ensued amongst the political parties and was followed by question and answers from the crowd afterwards.

Next on the clár of events was the long awaited launch of a 'Youth in Struggle' film, which was made by Ógra Shinn Féin. The film pays tribute to the huge sacrifice made by Irish youth during the freedom struggle, and traces the role that republican youth have played from the formation of Na Fianna Éireann in 1909 until today's modern republican youth in Ógra Shinn Féin. There was a large attendance present for the launch and upwards of 100 DVDs were sold to those present.

With political events formally ended for the day those present gathered once again for a night’s entertainment with Whiry gig.

With an early rise on the cards the following morning for a huge mobilisation in Bodenstown, many took the opportunity to catch up on a nights sleep, shortly after the conclusion to the night’s entertainment.

Speaking following the weekend, National Organiser of Ógra Shinn Féin, Barry McColgan commended all involved in the successful youth camp,

"Once again, we have enjoyed, a very comprehensive clár and very productive youth camp. It is a credit to all who organised and took part in the youth camp. It was an action packed weekend, from George Galloway, the speaking tour of Murlough bay, to the numerous talks and debate it provided much food for thought."

“On behalf of Ógra and indeed all the young people that attended the weekend I would like to thank and congratulate Coiste on the youth camp. Having been organised successfully for the last number years it is a credit to Coiste. They are playing their role in educating the youth of today, which will be the leaders of tomorrow."