Na Fianna Éireann proudly remembered in Derry

Ógra Shinn Féin Doire organised a fitting commemoration for the 100th anniversary of Na Fianna Éireann in Shantallow on Saturday 27th June.

A large crowd gathered at the Republican monument beside Shantallow Shops for the launch of a commemorative booklet and the unveiling of a mural, both dedicated to remembering Na Fianna Éireann and in particular, local young republicans who where involved in Na Fianna and later paid the ultimate sacrifice for Irish freedom.

Local Sinn Féin Councillor Elisha McLaughlin spoke passionately at the event, addressing the crowd of the absolute importance of young people in every phase of the struggle, and praised the local Ógra cumann for their campaigning and activism, which is ensuring the spirit of republican youth burns strong today.

The special edition booklet, was compiled by Ógra Shinn Féin, and presented to the families of the Fians and Volunteers, by Martin McGuinness and Martina Anderson.

The Na Fianna Éireann roll of honour was also read out by Ógra activist Adrian Óg Kelly, and a minutes silence was observed before Amhrán na bhFiann was played.

Following the presentation of the booklet to family members, local Ógra activists joined Martina and Martin to officially unveil the mural, dedicated to all the young Fians who lost their lives in the most recent phase of the struggle.

Speaking at the commemorative events, Derry Ógra activist Adrian Óg Kelly said,

“This year marks the 100th Anniversary of Na Fianna Éireann, and it is right and fitting that ‘Na Fianna Martyrs’ cumann Doire, would commemorate the first republican youth organisation. Na Fianna has a strong history in Derry, and played a huge role in recruiting, training and educating many young republicans across the city. It provided a platform where young republicans could become involved in the struggle, developing their politics and activism, Ógra Shinn Féin provides that same platform today."

“It was particularly humbling to have families with us, they have suffered immeasurably in this struggle, and we are determined to achieve the objectives for which their loved ones died. We are extremely proud of all the young people from across Derry and Ireland who have laid down their lives for the establishment of an Irish Republic, and we hope that our commemorative events through the booklet and the mural can help keep their spirit and their memory alive, continuing to inspire future generations of Irish youth to take up the cause for which they died.”