Killer Coke

Eugene Garvey
Ógra Shinn Féin
Leinster

With regards to last week An Phoblacht (13th Dec 07) and the central page article which includes a photo of a number of comrades during the lunch break,



I couldn’t help but notes that in the small photo there was five delicious bottles of Colombia blood AKA Coca-Cola products being enjoyed. Are we now getting sponsored by killer coke? Do we no long Support the killer coke campaign?

A campaign that seek to stop a gruesome cycle of murders, kidnappings and torture of union leaders and organizers involved in the daily life and death struggles at Coca Cola bottling plants in Colombia. Were eight people have been murder for being union leaders or in one case a manager who was considered friendly to the union. The most recent being the murder of Adolfo de Jesús Munera Lopez in 2002.

I also wonder did these products come from the Drogheda Coca- Cola bottling where 256 workers will loss there jobs next year flowing recent announcements.

This is not the first time I have seen Coca Cola products being sold our drunk at major Sinn Féin events or meeting. I have often voiced my disgust at comrades supporting coke, the responses I receive range from using ignorance as defence, that they had no other choice or that they are “addicted” to it. Regardless of excuses you either support worker right or you don’t.

I find it very ironic and sad that at an event where we are meant to be re-launching the party as a left wing alternative and ”engaging modern Ireland ”, we use a photo like this. Also as I looked at the photo I couldn’t help but notice that the key figures where Male Stale and Pale (with the exception of the coke). Is this the 32 socialist democratic republic we dream and work for or are we, like I hope, going to achieve the “Real Thing”.

Photos of Basque Protest in Dublin 08/12/07

Ógra Shinn Féin Organise Basque Solidarity Protest in Dublin

Ógra Shinn Féin held a demonstration outside the GPO in Dublin Saturday last in solidarity with the people of the Basque country, especially the leaders of Batasuna and SEGI, who have been recently arrested and sentenced to irrational jail terms, by the Spanish authorities. In response to this Ógra Shinn Féin working with the Dublin Basque committee mobilised onto the streets of Dublin to bring the issue to the public.

Speaking after the protest Ógra Shinn Féin International Officer, Orlagh Mc Cauley detailed the reasons for the protest;

“I’m delighted with the attendance at today’s demonstration. Ógra in co-operation with the Dublin Basque committees brought the plight of the incarcerated pro-independence Basque activists to the streets of Dublin. Today’s protest attracted a lot of attention from the people of Dublin who seemed genuinely interested in the ongoing situation in the Basque country. Ógra Shinn Féin stand and will continue to stand in solidarity with the people in the Basque country in their calls for independence.”

“Ógra Shinn Féin mobilised here today in co-operation the Basque Solidarity committees to demand that the Spanish Government re-initiate the process of political engagement with Batasuna. The behaviour of the Spanish Government in the context of the Basque political is unacceptable and Ógra renew our demand that talks between the sides are restarted immediately.”

“Ógra Shinn Féin fully support the demands of the Basque left-independence movement the demands. We believe their cause is just and condemn unreservedly the treatment of the Basque people by the Spanish authorities. We stand, and will continue to stand, in solidarity with the youth wing in the Basque country – SEGI. We have close ties with SEGI and we believe that the attempted criminalisation of them by the Spanish authorities is a cynical, un-democratic move.”

“The Spanish Government need to immediately accept the right of the Basque people to self-determination. Ógra Shinn Féin therefore call on the Spanish authorities to immediately re-initiate the political process and put an end to the political posturing which they have engaged in up to this point.”

“Freedom for the Basque Country, Saoirse dosna Bascaigh, Jo ta ke!”

Road Safety Signs Erected in West Tyrone

Road Safety Signs have been erected in West Tyrone by Ógra Shinn Féin as part of their ongoing 'Moilligh Síos' Road Safety campaign. The road safety billboards have been erected in the run up to the holiday period in order to raise awarness around the issue of road safety and to urge drivers to drive responsibly.



Stephen McGahan spokesperson for West Tyrone Ógra Shinn Féin said,

"We have erected the billboards in areas where hundreds of cars pass everyday. Simple measures like this can help raise the issue of road safety immeasurably and hopefully help save a life."

"The erection of the billboards is just another action in the campaign. We have organised a number of local vigils, distributed thousands of leaflets and engaged with thousands of young drivers. Although it is very difficult to assess the success of campaigns like this, we are hopeful that our many actions have contributed in making drivers think before they drive."

"The response to the billboards have been very positive to date with some relatives of those who have lost loved ones on the roads thanking us for the initiative. Considering this response we would encourage other Ógra areas to erect billboards before the campaign ends in January."

Seanna Walsh addresses West Tyrone Youth Forum on 1981 Hungerstrike

Seanna Walsh, former political prisoner, Officer Commanding of IRA prisoners, and close friend to Bobby Sands was in Omagh yesterday (12th December) to address the West Tyrone Youth Forum on ‘The 1981 Hungerstrike.’


The West Tyrone Youth Forum which takes place monthly in the local Sinn Féin Office, has been running for a number of years now and has continued to organise educational talks and provide local youth and students with a platform to air their questions on pressing and historical issues.

The talk on the Hungerstrike was intended to coincide with December being prisoner’s month and it received a brilliant turnout with students from five of the main local schools.

Michelle McMenamin speaking on the talk said,

“Seanna Walsh delivered a very insightful talk, giving a backdrop to the circumstances leading up to the 1981 Hungerstrike which would see his close friend Bobby Sands die.”

“Seanna talked intimately about the prison struggle, about the unbreakable spirit of the prisoners and touched on the personal characteristics of the hungerstrikers he knew.”

“The talk was thoroughly thought provoking and inspiring, and provoked a good debate following Seanna’s address with many questions and comments being aired from the floor. The talk on the 1981 Hungerstrike has created a huge interest amongst the youth and students in attendance with many providing suggestions for future themes. I would encourage all young people from the West Tyrone area to attend the next youth forum in Jaunary and to become part of the debate.”

The Hell of Crumlin Road Gaol

December is traditionally known as Prisoners month for Sinn Fein, and this is no different for Ógra.

West Belfast Ógra Shinn Féin got a very rare opportunity this week to get an inside look into the “hell” of Crumlin Road Gaol and to witness the conditions endured by republican prisoners down through the generations.


Tom Williams, a young republican aged only 19, was hanged and buried in Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast after he was convicted of involvement in the killing of RUC man Patrick Murphy in West Belfast on Easter weekend of 1942. Williams was one of six IRA men and two women, including senior republican Joe Cahill, who were convicted of Murphy's killing. Before Williams’s death he left some messages on the back of playing cards. One message said,

“To ever who receives this to pray for me always & pray for the cause for which I am dying. God Save Ireland.”

Paul Mc Cann of West Belfast Ogra had this to say,

“To be in a building where some of Ireland’s bravest men and women were killed for simply trying to get rid of the British occupation in Ireland was an experience in itself for me. Every republican should think of the effort put in by Prisoners like Tom Williams and Joe Cahill. They were men who didn’t wish for a united ireland but worked for it and gave their lives for Ireland."



Paul also added,

“The presence inside the jail on a cold dark wet evening made the hairs on the back of my neck stand, when we learnt of the conditions that the prisoners faced. I struggle to see how any republican could find it comfortable to be in a place like Crumlin road with its history.”

“Also in the prison we learnt of some of the brutality which the prisoners had to face, and in todays society it would be seen as inhuman. The prison also had its own diplock court room, and gallows.”

Oíche Gaelach i Stormont

le Peadar de Bluit

Dé hAoine (7/12) seo chaite tionóladh ceiliúradh den Gaeilge i Stormont. D’eagraigh Uactarán Shinn Féin an ocáid, a thaispeáin an t-athrú atá ag teach tar pholaíocht na tíre seo. Bhí thart ar 200 daoine ag an ócáid a chonaic ceol, rince agus spraoi i rith na hoíche. D’fhreastal poblachtánaigh ó gach carn den tír ar Stormont ó Cill Choinnigh go Dún na nGall, agus Gaillimh go Blá Cliath. Bhain an uile duine a bhí ann sult ollmhór as an ócáid tábhachtach seo do Ghaeilgeoirí Shinn Féin, agus gníomhaithe na Gaeilge sna sé contae.

(Ógra Members with Irish American Comedian Des Bishop)

Last Friday a celebration of the Irish language was held in Stormont. The event organised by the Sinn Féin President, Gerry Adams, was a clear indicator of just how much things have changed in the six counties. There were in excess of 200 people in attendance enjoying the music, song and dance during the evening. Republicans from all over Ireland gathered in Stormont from Kilkenny to Donegal, and Galway to Dublin. Everyone who was there thoroughly enjoyed the night, which was an important night for Gaeilgeoirí in Sinn Féin as well as Irish language activists in the six counties.

Tá sé tábhachtach go gcaomhnaítear an suim sa Ghailge anois laistigh agus lasmuigh den gluaiseacht agus cabhrú le fás na hathbheochana atá i gcruth thar a bheith sláintiúil na laethanta seo. Ba cheart go ndéanfaidh Gaeilgeoirí cineadh dearfach Gaeilge a úsáid gach uair is féidir leo. Ní féidir le teanga maireachtaint gan daoine á labhairt. Tá sé de dhualgas ag Gaeilgeoirí ní hamháin an Ghaeilge a labhairt nuair is féidir leo, ach daoine eile a spreagadh í a labhairt chomh maith.

Mar a chéile le gach ócáid de chuid Sinn Féin na laethanta bhí grúpa láidir ó Ógra ann. Ní iomlán na daoine óga a bhí sa grúpa Ógra áfach, bhí daoine óga ann ó scoileanna áitiúla sa cheantar. Chomh maith le sin bhí roinnt iar-baill de Ógra Shinn Féin ag freastal ar an ócáid agus iad anois ag obair le Sinn Féin. Bhí sé spreagúil na daoine óga seo go léír a fheiscint ag freastal ar an ócáid seo ag cur na bréige faoi easpa suime an ógra sa Ghailge ina luí go hiomlán.

It is imperative the increasing interest in Irish is maintained both within and without the movement and that the ongoing revival of Irish is aided in whatever way possible. It is the responsibility of al Gaeilgeoirí to use and promote the Irish language at every chance possible. This responsibility is prevalent for young people more so than anyone else, and it appeared from Friday night that the youth of Ireland are more than willing to take up this mantle. Outside of the substantial Ógra contingent that can be seen at most Sinn Féin events these days, there was a number of young people from Gaelscoileanna in the immediate area, as well as many former members of Ógra now absorbed into the Sinn Féin structures. This significant group of young people showed that the future of the Irish was assured for the foreseeable furure.

Is cuid lárnach de oidhreacht is cultúr na hÉireann í an Gaeilge. Tá sé de dhulgas againn ar fad í a fhoghlaim is a labhairt. Mar a dúirt an Piarsach tráth,

“Tír gan teanga. Tír gan anam.”

Cavan Cola

CAVAN-COLA ABÚ!

There is a great injustice which has been visited on the people of Cavan and Ireland for many years. This crime the most vile and cruel since partition is the denial of that which is the birth right of all the citizens of Ireland and took pride of place in the great county of Cavan. I speak of course of the years of drought of the nation's favourite and most delicious beverage, the ambrosia of the Gaels…..Cavan-Cola.


I well remember this, the pinnacle of Cavan achievement from my childhood. A marvel of chemistry and nature, volatile as Vesuvius yet refreshing as….well…em…a bottle of Cavan-Cola!

But this crime has not gone unnoticed the people have risen and they are clear in their demands. WE WANT CAVAN-COLA! No to the alien Coke and Pepsi or inferior Country Spring!

With a health service on the brink of disaster, almost non-existent public services, imminent ecological doom and the continued occupation of Iraq and Palestine its so reassuring that the people of Ireland have their priorities so straight.

Well I suppose we should support empowered communities but I'm not sure nostalgic sugar junkies constitute a community.

Show your support:

http://www.bebo.com/cavan-cola-forever

Basque Film Launched at Basque/Irish Night in Belfast

Ógra Shinn Féin recently launched a film at a Basque/Irish Night in Conway Mill Belfast. The film explores the cultural, social and political realities in the Basque country and looks at the current struggle for independence. It is presented by Ógra Shinn Féin activists who travelled to the Basque Country in September to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with the Basque people and youth movement Segi.


Introducing the film, National Organiser of Ógra Shinn Féin, Barry McColgan said,

"The current high level of oppression being directed at the Basque people is a disgrace. The Spanish state's totalitarian clamp down and human rights abuses must be highlighted and exposed across the world. We have a huge job of work to play in Ireland, we must raise the issue with the Irish public and we must lobby the Dublin government to put pressure on the Spanish for their ridiculous measures which have included the banning of political parties, arrests and torture of legitimate political, social and cultural activists."

"The film produced by Ógra Shinn Féin goes someway in raising awareness on the current situation on the fragile nature of the Basque democratic processes. It also shows the resilience and vibrancy of the Basque people and demonstrates that despite massive state oppression the movement for independance grows. I would urge everyone to watch and promote the film."

If you are interested in getting a copy of the DVD which are priced at £5/8Euro (All profit will be used in the production of future films). Please email osfnational@yahoo.ie

Tuition Fees! A Call to Mobilise for the Youth

Michál Harkin
Sheena Campbell Cumann
Ógra Shinn Féin

The recent decision by Stormont to allow the increase of Student fees in line with inflation is yet another devastating blow to the Students of the North of Ireland.

The fees, ‘capped’ at £3000, now stand at £3145. For students from disadvantaged areas, this could mean the end to their hopes and aspirations of a degree. Sinn Féin Assembly member for West Belfast Sue Ramsey who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee said,

"The majority of the parties opposed Student Fees in their election manifestos and many indeed called for their abolition. On this basis it is incumbent on us to oppose any increase in Student Fees."

"Reg Empey may have pointed to some review in the future yet he provided no detail about how this review can deliver for our young people and no indication about how he will tackle the negative impact that Students Fees is having, particularly as a barrier to students from poorer backgrounds. He won't even admit it is a problem."

But where is all this money going? Research seems to be the byword of every Higher Education Authority across this Island.

In the South, where the government and private companies fund the Universities, then by all rights the universities must produce what they are being paid to do.

But what happens when, as is the case in the North, students are paying the University to provide them with a degree, but the University uses their money to fund their own research.

I believe the day is coming fast when students who have had lectures, tutorials and classes cancelled, will be requesting refunds from universities who’s greed and selfishness continues to spiral out of control.

Let’s campaign for what we need, a higher education system that works with the student’s, for the student’s, not a corporate image.

Ógra Shinn Féin is against Student fees, has always been against fees, and always will be against fees.

Education is a right, not the preserve of the privileged few!

Moilligh Síos!

Peadar de Bluit
National Campaigns Officer
Ógra Shinn Féin

Tá an Nollag buailte linn arís. Is bliain fíochmhar crua a bhí againn le 12 mí anuas. In ainneoin seo áfach tá dul chun cinn déanta ag Ógra Shinn Féin i rith an ama sin. Faoi láthair táimid i mbun feachtas náisiúnta ag díriú ar sláinteachas bóithre. Tá obair maith déanta againn ar an gceist ón samhradh anonn agus ba cheart bheith bródúil asainn féin faoi sin. Is ceist tromchúiseach í ceist an sláinteachas bóithre, agus tá sé an spreagúil do go leor daoine go roghnaíomar obair a dhéanamh air.



Christmas time is with us again. Republicans have endured a reasonably difficult year over the past 12 months. Despite this however, Ógra Shinn Féin have continued to develop and grow. At the moment we are in the midst of a national campaign focusing on road safety. We have done very good work on this issue since the summer and we should recognise that. Road safety is an extremely difficult, sensitive question, and many have been encouraged by the willingness of Ógra to take on this issue.

We have nearly reached the end of the current campaign but before that we must focus on the national mobilisation scheduled to take place in Dublin on Saturday. Labour Youth and the Young Greens, have come together with ourselves in Ógra Shinn Féin to sponsor a national youth vigil calling on Irish people to take Road Safety more seriously, and make a real effort to change the driving culture that exists in our country. This issue transcends borders, politics and nationality; it affects all ages, races and genders. This why we have campaigned on this issue for the past six months, and why we are mobilising in Dublin on Saturday.

Tá mise ag glaoch ar chumainn Ógra fud fad na tíre teacht go Blá Cliath ar an Satharn agus a cinntiú go bhfaightear an teachtaireacht. Is ceist í an Sláinteachas Bóithre a cuireann isteach ar gach aoinne is cuma cén aois nó cén cuid den tír gurb as dóibh. Más rud é nach raibh tú gníomhach go dtí seo impím oraibh teacht ar an Satharn agus a bheith páirteach san agóid.

I urge all Ógra activists to travel to Dublin on Saturday and send the message to the people of Dublin and the people of Ireland that the Irish youth are serious about Road Safety and that we want something done about it now. If there is any area which has not yet been active on this campaign, for whatever reason, now is your chance to play your part. Come to Dublin on Saturday, bring your friends, relatives and fellow comrades. Come to Dublin on Saturday and make your voice heard, make sure Ireland gets the message – MOILLIGH SÍOS!

Beirigí Bua,

Staff Captain Jim McGinn Remembered

Seán Gillespie
Strabane ÓSF

This Sunday (December 8th) will see the annual commemoration march for volunteer Jim McGinn, west Tyrone command Oglaigh Na hEireann.

The passing of 33 years has not diminished the painful memories of that tragic day at Clady bridge, on the Tyrone-Donegal border.

Jim and three comrades were on active service, and preparing to carry out an attack on the occupying forces in the north. The bomb Jim was carrying was a remote controlled device. As the volunteers walked across the bridge, the bomb exploded prematurely, killing Jim instantly and injuring his three comrades, one seriously.

Jim was only 20 years of age at the time of his death and deep sorrow and sadness engulfed his native Strabane as news of the event spread. Black flags appeared on houses throughout the town and this sombre mood prevailed throughout the Christmas period.

Subsequent to his death, Jim had taken an active and full part the civil rights struggle. He joined the Republican movement shortly after internment and was forced to go “on the run” following an operation in early 1972. Jim held the position of engineering officer of the west Tyrone command staff at the time of his death, a position which bore testament to his ability.

Jim was renowned for his humour and friendly nature and his outgoing character endeared him to young and old alike. He had a deep love of his native culture, reflected in his involvement with An Comhaltas Uladh. Jim’s intensive study of the writings of James Connolly made a deep impression on him and fuelled his desire to achieve social and economic justice for all, and the clear understanding that this would only be achieved through the removal of divisive british rule.

Every year friend’s family and comrades of Jim’s, gather at the spot where he died to lay wreaths and pay tribute to his memory. His annual commemoration will kick off at 3:00pm at the river club Cloughfinn Co. Donegal, and will proceed to the bridge at Clady Co. Tyrone, led by the Strabane Memorial flute band.

This brave young Irish soldier will live on as an inspiration to the Republican youth of today, who continue to play a part in the unfinished struggle for freedom, for which Jim gave his life.

Ógra urged to get active for Prisoners' Month

ÓGRA Shinn Féin National Organiser Barry McColgan has urged Ógra Shinn Féin to get active throughout the month of December to remember POWs who are still held in jail this Christmas.



According to McColgan, whilst many protests, leaflet drops and vigils will be highlighting the incarceration of Irish republican POWs, a number of other actions will highlight international POWs. Prisoners held as a result of anti-imperialist struggles such as The Miami 5 and Leonard Peltier will be the focus of a number of events.

Barry McColgan said:

“This year, we will also be focusing on the imprisonment of the Segi leadership. The past year has seen an increase of repression in the Basque Country which has seen the imprisonment of many people due to their political beliefs. We extend our continued solidarity greetings to our imprisoned comrades in the Basque Country and will remember them this year also. Having visited the Basque Country in the summer, the large delegation of Ógra Shinn Féin members saw at first-hand the repression in the Basque Country. We call for the immediate release of the Segi leadership and call for an end to the repression.”


As part of Prisoners’ Month, Ógra members have already visited republican comrades in Castlerea.

Barry McColgan urged groups nationally to organise a day of action in the run-up to the festive period for POWs worldwide and the IRA POWs who still remain behind bars despite the end of the recent phase of armed conflict by the leadership of Óglaigh na hÉireann.

Argos – the shop where they not only reserve goods, they reserve some staff as well.

Stephanie Lord

Over the weekend we saw the disgraceful behaviour of those in Drogheda, Swords, Jervis Street and other outlets go without being remarked on by the media. This disgraceful behaviour was by Argos management and those who chose to disregard the picket-line outside of Argos and venture inside to engage in some festive shopping courtesy of the scab-labour that had been flown in by the management that day. I find it ironic that many in Drogheda can be up in arms regarding the impending closure of the Coca-Cola plant and subsequent relocation of production to a non-unionised plant elsewhere and then rearrange the order of their moral high ground so they are enabled to pass a picket-line in a well-publicised industrial dispute, and therefore undermine the purpose of the workers strike as a result.

It is understandable that Christmas is only around the corner and nobody wants to see a 6 year olds disappointed face because they didn’t get their Action Man, but with a little clarity it is easily seen that a child will eventually get over that. On the other hand, workers do not strike in the month of Nollaig for nothing and knowing your employment will become even more precarious as a result of taking a courageous stance, and possibly eventually non-existent is slightly harder to get over. Argos profits are up by 50% this year. Their employees are seeking a 10% pay-rise. They might be on more than minimum wage but that is still unacceptable if it is below subsistence remuneration.

The introduction of strike-breaking workers by Argos management was a despicable action, and regardless of their employment status within Argos before Saturday’s strike – they are still scab labour and this is to be expected from a company who are under pressure from IBEC to make an example of their low-paid staff so that others in the private sector do not get too inspired by it. The fact that it is socially acceptable to now cross a picket line, regardless of whether you agree with the objectives of the industrial action is astonishing. It is unthinkable (for this writer at least) to cross a picket-line whether it is Aer Lingus, CIE, Dublin Bus, Argos or workers from the Centra down the road on strike.

What makes this even more galling is that the scabs who were flown in to Argos stores showed no solidarity even as fellow workers, to those on the picket line. Nobody is quite sure how many workers were flown in, but one thing is for sure here – Argos were not going to let the cost of flying anyone anywhere be a problem and given the profits of Argos were €8.1 billion for this year, chartering a plane or paying €300 a head for last minute seats on flights is peanuts to the shopping giant. It’s quite obvious that this was an issue of breaking the strike and not doing their best by their customers. Mandate, the trade union of which most Argos employees are members of up until recently had a recognition agreement with Argos for the purposes of collective bargaining. The human resource wizards in the company have realised that they could get away with giving workers less if they did away with recognising Mandate and only went along with the National Wage agreements, another example of how social partnership agreements are only undermining the trade union movement in this state – and the sooner ICTU wake up to this the better.

As for those who crossed the picket-line and ventured into the store for their child’s Action Man, I sincerely hope that their child enjoys it. I hope that being a consumer rather than a citizen was worth it. I also sincerely hope that when they give the Action Man, they spare a thought for those who went on strike to get 90 cent extra an hour and rethink their actions next time they see a picket line and do the right thing by not crossing it.

Mac Ádhmaidh ag óstáil Ceiliúradh na Gaeilge i Stormont

Beidh Uachtarán Shinn Fein Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh MP MLA ag óstáil Cheiliúradh na Gaeilge i Mór-Halla Stormont ar an Áoine 7 Nollaig @ 7in.



Tá Foras na Gaeilge ag déanamh comh-urraíochta ar an imeacht agus beidh ionadaithe ó chomhlachtaí agus eagraíochtaí Gaeilge as achan chearn den tír i láthair.

Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag Mac Ádhaimh fá dtaobh den imeacht:

"Tá dul chun cinn suntasach déanta maidir leis an Ghaeilge le blianta beaga anuas. Is ón ghnáthphobal a tháinig an spreagadh agus an dul chun cinn seo, agus ba é dua, díograis agus dúthracht na múinteoirí, na dtuismitheoirí, gníomhaithe teanga agus cuid mhór daoine eile a choinnigh an Ghaeilge beo leis na blianta.

"Sa lá atá inniu ann, tá an Ghaeilge ag fás as cuimse, agus tá méadú leanúnach ar an líon daoine óga atá ag iarraidh í a labhairt.

"Is í an dóigh is fearr agus is éifeachtaí lena chinntiú go leanfar le fás agus forbairt na Gaeilge ná í a bheith ina cuid bhríomhar de ghnáthshaol na ndaoine.

"Tá sé rí-thábhachtach fosta go ndéanfaidh muid an méid atá bainte amach i gcothú agus i bhforbairt na Gaeilge le blianta beaga anuas, a cheiliúradh.

"Tá ceiliúradh an Aoine seo chugainn ina chuid thábhachtach de seo.

"Tabharfaidh an ócáid deis do phobal na Gaeilge, do cheoltóirí, do ghníomhaithe pobail agus polaitiúla, do pháistí agus go leor eile an ceol s'againne, an Ghaeilge agus an cultúr Gaelach a chur i lár an aonaigh agus a thaispeáint don saol mór.

"Tá an Ghaeilge ina gné lárnach dár saol mar phobal, is den Ghaeilge muid mar phobal riamh anall, agus caithfimid í thabhairt linn isteach san am atá amach romhainn agus í a bhronnadh ar an chéad ghlúin eile."

Tá an ócáid ar leith seo á comh-urrú ag Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh agus Foras na Gaeilge.

Nóta don eagarthóir.

I meas na ndaoine a bheas i láthair, beidh cór na n-óg, Nollaig agus Áine Brolly; Gearóid Mac Lochlainn, Máire Bean Uí Bhruadair agus Frances Black.

For english version:

http://www.sinnfeinassembly.com/en/press-centre/entry/1681

Youth Wings Unite to Urge Road Safety

A Road Safety Vigil will be held at the GPO, Dublin, on Saturday 15th December at 1pm, Ógra Shinn Féin, Labour Youth and the Young Greens announced today.


Road traffic accidents claim hundreds of lives every year on Irish roads, with young people being a high proportion of the victims.

"Four hundred and three people have died on roads on the island of Ireland this year alone" said Barry McColgan of Ógra Shinn Féin.

"It's nothing short of a national tragedy. We need to urgently raise awareness of the issue, and we need action now, both north and south."

"We feel that young people have a responsibility to act as peer leaders in highlighting this issue, and trying to end this annual carnage."

The Road Safety Vigil has been organised in the run up to the holiday season, to call on the youth of Ireland to take responsibility on the roads and to slow down.

"It's a sad fact that road accidents and deaths increase during the Christmas holiday period", said Labour Youth's Enda Duffy.

"It's the complete antithesis of the season of happiness and joy."

"As well as urging people to drive carefully, keep to the speed limit, and not to drive while tired, we would also appeal to everyone to never ever drink and drive, never to let your friends get behind the wheel while drunk, and please, report any suspected cases of driving drunk to the Gardaí."

"Alcohol is one of the main causes of road accidents, and every of those accidents is avoidable".

Stephen Crowley of the Young Greens, meanwhile, called for greater preventative action.

"We have to reduce people's dependence on their own cars as the sole mode of transportation, particularly in rural areas. Cheap and easily available public transport would dramatically reduce the temptation and opportunity for people to drive under the influence."

"Where no alternative is available, we would encourage people to nominate a designated driver."

He also called on pubs to help designated drivers by providing them with free non-alcoholic drinks for the night.

"It's a simple solution which is already being run by soft drinks companies, which we strongly welcome. But not all pubs participate in such schemes, and we would encourage everyone in the industry to joining, and help us reduce the number of families who will lose a loved one on the roads this Christmas."

Ógra Shinn Féin, Labour Youth and the Young Greens invite everyone who can to come to the Road Safety Vigil, and play a part in national road safety.

Christmas Time for Ógra!

Gerry Junior

According to a recent survey by Deloitte, the international consultants, the Irish will be the number one spenders this Christmas among eurozone member states.

I would enter a rant about capitalism, neo-colonialism and the false sense of wealth created by Tony the 'Celtic' Tiger, but instead i'd like to focus my attentions towards slagging Ógra.


If the Irish are the number one spender's I'm wondering what the number one gift the bearded one (no not Gerry) will be delivering to Ógra cumann this Christmas.

Starting in the capital (and no McNally I'm not referring to Carrickmore), Dublin, I anticipate a heavy purchase of the Communist Manifesto, fun galore with Karl Marx piling out of all those jackeen stockings this year.

Turning my attention to West Belfast, the good old gold chain is a certainty for our comrades in the Turf and the Murph.

West Tyrone, well thats too obvious, an IRA T-shirt in one stocking and a pair of sand boots under the tree.

Armagh, a bag of fertiliser, (for the grass stupid!)

Kilkenny, a gaelic football, I know they'll struggle with that one.

Monaghan, a pair of scissors for the land of long haired Ógra, apart from one bald activist.

Lurgan, champagne, well not quite, a local speciality known famously as Lurgan Champagne - aka Buckfast.

I can just imagine all the Derry 'wans' adoringly weari ng their new 'I Love Mark Durkan' T-Shirts.

In North Antrim, Santy will be throwing Ulster Scot dictionaries down the chimney or you never no he might even throw in a visitor centre courtesy of the DUP and chief elf Sweeney.

Dundalk will be stocking up on the soon to be released 'Eugene Garvey - Christmas in El Paso.' The quivering angelic voice is sure to be an instant hit. Spiral eat your heart out.

The Ógra in Cork will obviously be putting Independence as top of their Christmas list but not for Ireland, for Cork itself.

South Down and Drogheda will be hoping for a few male activists from Santy's sack because they have the huge dilemma of having an overwhelming number of female members.

And to finish this little slag fest, good aul Cavan, we'll you know what they say about Cavan people, miserable b******s.. A lump of coal and a mandarin orange if their lucky.

Nollaig Shona from Gerry Junior!

An bhfuil dearmad déanta ar an lucht oibre?

le Peadar de Bluit

Sar a thosaím b’fhearr dom a soiléiriú cé go díreach atá faoi caibidil agam anseo. Níl mé ag dul ag déanamh measúnú ar an páirtí polaitíochta den teideal céanna, dhein mé a dhóthain trácht dóibhsiúd an lá cheana. Oibritheoirí na tíre seo atá i gceist agam, go háirithe iadsan atá níos faide síos an scála pá. Is dócha gur oiriúnach an t-am anois é comhrá a athosú faoi stad na gnáth oibrithe sa tír seo. Tá dhá buiséad idir lámha ar an oileán beag seo againne faoi láthair, agus ceachtar acu ag déanamh mórán maitheasa do lucht oibre na tíre seo, in aineoin go bhfuilimid féin sa rialtas ó thuaidh. An rud is náirí áfach ná go bhfuil na polaiteoirí go léir (muid féin san áireamh arís) á rá go bhfuil an réiteach is fearr faighte sna coinníollacha atá ann faoi láthair. Níl le déanamh againn anois, a deirtear linn, más rud é go bhfuilimid gann fós, ach an crios a theannú beagainín níos mó.

Ó theas, ach go háirithe, caithfear a admháil go bhfuil fás borb feicithe againn san eacnamaíocht le deich mbliana anuas. Anois, is cuma sa tioc cad a deir lucht Fianna Fáil, nó an Páirtí ‘Daonlatach’ níl an saibhreas seo tar éis filleadh ar an gnáth duine agus ní fillfidh sé riamh is cuma cé chomh crua is a oibríonn duine. Tá muintir Fianna Fáil agus a gcuid gealltanaisí ag teacht salach anois ón mbuiséad deireanach. Duireamar féin go hiomlán soiléir siar mí Bealtaine, nach bhfaigheadh siad a gcuid pleananna a cur i gcrích, agus cáin a ísealú, ach tugadh an cluas bodhar dúinn faraor. Tá rud éigin ábharaín níos measa in ann áfach, agus feicim ag teacht go mear é. Tá slí amháin sa gearr téarma go dtig leo íoc as a pleananna ar fad – príobháidiú. Gan dabht tá siad tar éis obair maith a dhéanamh de cheana le Aer Lingus, Eircom agus Greencore, is dóigh áfach go bhfuil níos mó in ann. Níl todhchaí ar bith dearfach ag teacht chugainn má leanann an scéal seo. Má táimid chun éirí i gceart arís ba cheart go mbeimid ag spreagadh Éireannaigh chun a ghnó féin a thosú, ag réitiú an bealach do pobail tógraí comh-oibriú a chur ar bun. B’fhéidir ansin go mbeadh sé níos furasta ar dhaoine marachtaint agus tabhairt ar ais don stáit.

Níos mó agus níos mó tá an lucht oibre á thostú. Tá an méid seo á dhéanamh go han-cliste, agus go han-éifeachtach. Is plean le dhá cuid é. Ar an gcéad dul síos tá na íocaíochtaí leasa shóisialaigh, go dtí seo bhí sé de chumas ag an rialtas na íocaíochtaí seo a caitheamh in aon slí go mba mhian leo. Dá mbeadh rud ar bit cearr le duine bhí siad i dteideal íocaíochtaí. Mar a dúirt scríobhneoir cailiúl Gearmánach faoi na rudaí seo tráth, gur chiúiniú an lucht oibre a bhí ann, agus is fíor dó é is dócha. Mar sin feictear don cuid eile againn go bhfuil beagnach lán-fhostaíocht againn a cruthaíonn an dara fadhb, ‘macalla an Fís Meiriceánach’. Seo an rud céanna a mheall an hEorapaigh chuig Meiriceá sa tosach, is a coimeádann na páirtithe coimeádacha i réim ann anois. Sé an cur i gcéill ná gur féidir le duine, nó gur gá leo fiú, iad féin a ‘fheabhsú’. Mar sea ní bhíonn daoine buartha, agus ní bhíonn siad sásta éirí aníos, faoin stad ina bhfuil siad. Is as seo atá an freagra againn, tá dearmad déanta ar an lucht oibre, tá dearmad déanta orthu ar an ábhar go bhfuil siad tar éis dearmad a dhénamh orthu féin. Ní freagra sásúil é sin domsa áfach. Caithfimid mar poblachtánaigh sóisialach, an lucht oibre a gríosú chun coinníollach níos fearr a éiliú ón rialtas, torthaí a gcuid oibre a fháil agus cruth úr a cur ar scéal na tíre seo.

Solidarity Protest For Arrest of 46 Basque Political, Social and Cultural Activists

Ógra Shinn Féin are organising a solidarity protest against the constant oppression this Saturday 8 December @ 4pm at the GPO in Dublin.

Last weekend 46 Basque political, social and cultural activists were re-arrested and imprisoned by the Spanish authorities despite being granted bail in March. They face 527 years and 6 months imprisonment for daring to mobilise for Basque Independence.

The enormous oppression and torture that is currently being directed by the Spanish Government is harping back to the days of Franco. Despite the huge efforts of a 'censored' and 'outlawed' Batasuna for peace, these undemocratic and human rights abuses clearly demonstrate that the Spanish are not sincere in their calls for peace in the Basque Country.

Please come along to show solidarity with the oppressed people of the Basque Country!

Jo ta ke!

"In this possibly terminal phase of human existence, democracy and freedom are more than just ideals to be valued - they may be essential to survival." Noam Chomsky

Sheena Campbell Ógra Shinn Féin remember the Hungerstrikers at Long Kesh

The Sheena Campbell Ógra Shinn Féin cumann at Queens University visited Long Kesh last Friday.



A number of cumann activists toured the former concentration camp which had thousands of republican's imprisoned behing its walls throughout the modern conflict in Ireland.

The 'prison' once described as the most secure prison in Western Europe was also scene to a famous prison break by 38 IRA prisoners in 1983 and was tragicall the symbol of British Intrangience across the world when 10 Irish Republican prisoners where allowed to die on Hungerstrike in 1981.

Grace Lynch speaking of the tour said,

"We as young republicans travelled to Long Kesh to visulaise the horror of the place which we have read about. We also paid homage to the bravery of the Hungerstrikers and the thousands of prisoners who where held captive in awful conditions for years on end."

"The resistance and resilience of republican prisoners was a catalyst in our struggle and their memory is a constant source of inspiration for us in our daily actions. I would urge other Ógra cumann to organise a tour to Long Kesh because although tragic it is utterly inspiring!"

West Tyrone Ógra Visit IRA POWs

West Tyrone Ógra Shinn Fein kick-started prisoner’s month on Saturday by visiting the IRA POWs in Castlerea Jail, Co. Roscommon. The visit was taken as a part of a series of events in the West Tyrone area which will culminate in a day of action on Saturday 22nd of December in Omagh and Strabane.

Speaking following the visit chairperson of west Tyrone Ógra, Barry McNally called for the release of IRA POWs who remain incarcerated this Christmas. He said

“The issue of IRA POWs still remaining in jail although an end has been brought to the armed campaign is an issue of great anger to republicans. The Dublin government in particular have held these men in jail despite clear signs from the leadership of Óglaigh na hÉireann that this phase of the armed conflict is at an end. Certainly we in Ógra Shinn Fein will continue with our Saoirse campaign until we see the eventual release of IRA political hostages, whether they are held in Ireland or further a field.

Charlene O'Hara takes 'Youngest Councillor' title

Charlene O’Hara from West Belfast Ógra Shinn Féin has become Irelands youngest councillor aged just 19 years Old. A student from St Marys college, Charlene was co-opted on to Lisburn City Council at their meeting on Tuesday 27th November ’07. Councillor Jennifer McCann, who served the electoral area of Dunmurry cross had to give up her council seat following her election the assembly.

Charlene on the right at a recent commemorative event for the 40th Anniversary of the death of Che Guevara

Charlene, from Twinbrook joined Sinn Féin over 2 years ago and has worked variously within the election department of Sinn Féin and more recently has worked with the ICT department of Sinn Fein.

Charlene takes up the story

“I have always had a strong interest in politics and whilst growing up in modern day Ireland politics is never too far away none of my family were overtly political. I was always highly critical and never took anything at face value. When I became more and more interested in politics Sinn Féin was the party that reflected my Republican ideals and so it only made sense to join Sinn Féin and develop these ideals.”

Joining Sinn Féin in late 2005, Charlene became involved with Ógra Shinn Féin when it was in a phase of restructuring in West Belfast.

“I didn’t join Ógra Shinn Féin when I joined the senior party because it was in a phase of restructuring so I opted to join Senior Sinn Féin. However with the re structuring of Ógra Shinn Fein in west Belfast I helped out and have now been tying in with Ógra Shinn Féin. However re-structuring and development is an ongoing process, there is no point where you can say it is now complete.

“I have worked on numerous election campaigns for Sinn Féin, which I believe stands me in good stead for the task that lays ahead on Lisburn City Council. I have also worked closely throughout the summer with Jennifer McCann, through my work experience in the Sinn Féin office so this all goes to develop myself and the my role as a councillor.”

When pressed on the work Charlene would be involved in during her term in the council she stated

“I want to tackle issues particularly around the young people of the area. Being a youth myself I am well aware of the lack of youth facilities and provision in many areas throughout West Belfast. West Belfast is one of the most deprived areas of Western Europe; through decades of neglect by successive British governments we had little in the way of prosperity, economically or socially. However through the last decade or so things are beginning to look up for the people of west Belfast.

“I also want to tackle the stereotypical view of young people also. Young people today are being portrayed as ‘monsters’ and very many young people are now labelled ‘hoods’. This is a very stereotypical view of young people. There are a small minority of young people who wreck havoc in communities and who are a scourge on the backs of communities. However the vast majority of young people are not ‘monsters’ or ‘hoods’.

Asked if she wasn’t involved with Ógra or Senior Sinn Féin what would she be doing Charlene said

“I can’t imagine not being involved with some movement of some description, such as the student’s movement or the trade union movement.”

Outside of Politics Charlene is training to be a PE teacher and is interested in physical fitness. She also works on a voluntary basis for a local youth club in her local area and is also a carer for her brother and sister.

With her to Lisburn City Council, Charlene brings a youthful perspective, enthusiasm and responsibility.

“I am looking forward to this challenge, it’s definitely a novel with being the youngest councillor in Ireland but there are also important duties and responsibilities that come with my job. Jennifer McCann has served the people of Dunmurry cross well and it will be hard to fill her boots. However I am up for the task, and I will serve my constituents to the best of my ability”

Charlene, on the right, helping out at Freshers in St Marys in September

Quickfire Round

Favorite Food: Anything Italian

Favorite Drink: Pure Orange and Pineapple juice mixed together!

Favorite Music / Artist: Snow patrol, but im really into anything basically

Favorite Film: Too Many

Favorite Book: A very British Jihad

Favorite travel destination: Zambia

Person most influential in your life: My Sister

Person you would like to meet (living) : Nelson Mandela

Person you would like to meet (deceased) : James Connolly

If you were president of Ireland or Taoiseach what 3 things would you do to change Ireland?

1.) Work towards the establishment of a sovereign 32 county democratic socialist republic

2.) Make Irish language the 1st language of Ireland and promote and develop it.

3.) Bring in sweeping reforms including scrapping Water Charges, Top up Fees, tackle the extortionate rates charge by car insurance companies and lower council rates.

Ógra Attend Arab American Action Network, Chicago USA

Ógra activist and Cllr. Johnny McGibbon has been Chicago this weekend, on a tour organised by Irish Northern Aid. The first event on his tour was a workshop with the Arab American Action Network.

Cllr. McGibbon said,

"It’s a fantastic experience for me as a young Republican. We discussed the Irish struggle and the current situation in Palestine, as well as various social issues of importance in Ireland and downtown Chicago."

The workshop was held in a community centre in downtown Chicago, run by the Arab American Action Network but attended by young people from various different sections of the community. The work shop was made up of young women from the Chicago area, many of whom are of Palestinian descent.

Cllr. McGibbon continued,

"It was extremely interesting to explore the parallels, the similarities and even some differences in the situation in Palestine and the history of the Irish Struggle. This was a group of very political aware young people and I know they appreciate the support of Irish Republicans for their people."

Johnny continues his tour over the next few weeks.

Give Harney Her P45!

Last Wednesday members of Ógra Shinn Féin in Dublin and the Sinn Féin Leinster House team held a protest outside the Dáil to highlight the Motion of No Confidence in Mary Harney Minister For Health which was to be voted on later that day, the motion fell but the fight to end the attack on public health continues.



Mary Harney, has resided over the continued deterioration of public health services in Ireland for the last three years. Her complete lack of respect for the right of the Irish people regardless of class to have access to the best health care possible. She has cut services, fired staff and defied workers, all the while over seeing the shambolic messes that were the P-PARS scandal, Leas Cross and the most recent scandals in relation to the death of Susie Long, who died simply because she did not have the money for Private Health Insurance, and the misdiagnoses in Portlaoise.

It is time for Mary Harney the most arrogant and callous ideologue to ever take up the Health Ministry to go. but of course she is not the only one to blame. Mary Harney, much the same way the Greens will be in a few years, is the mudguard for Fianna Fáil. They have reinstated her in the department of health because they don't want to damage one of their own but don't be fooled she is carrying out what is undoubtedly the policy of Fianna Fáil and their short term profit driven privatisation agenda.

Member of Ógra and Student Nurse Oisín Ó Dubhláin had this to say:

"WE must reject the idea that how much you earn determines how quickly you are treated. This is the idea at the very core of the FF/PD/Green governments health policy. We much smash the two tier system, no public funds should go to the provision of discriminatory care provision. Universal rights based health is the only answer to the race to the bottom inequality agenda of this Government. Mary Harney and Fianna Fáil have brought public health to its knees we cannot let them continue to put our futures in jeopardy for sake of a few measly euro's and the realisation ideological fantasies of private health"

PC Gone Mad!

Michael Grey
Pádraig Pearse Ógra Shinn Féin Cumann
South Down

So I see it has started, after 1,547 years oftradition and continuity in Ireland. Christmas and in particular the story of the Nativity is under attack. It was with genuine sadness that I listened to the Joe Duffy show on RTE Radio 1 (Monday 3rd December) and learnt that a play-school has decided to ‘drop’ the annual nativity play because of a sole complaint.

What is happening to our country? Its sad to see that the Irish political correctness brigade are following their counterparts in Britain in trying to destroy the message of Christmas. What next ‘’sorry sir, we don’t call it Christmas in Ireland anymore, its Winterville.’’


For some reason an element in Irish society, thoughbe it tiny, are attempting to eradicate any public declaration of faith. Apparently, believing in God is now offensive, it has become taboo in many respects. What is the problem? What do people find so hostile about a class of young children dressing up, andre-enacting a story about the Christian faith?

I honestly don’t know, I have debated with many people who are hostile to faith and when you challenge them, they offer nothing instead, but open disdain and in many cases hatred, so who is the real bigot?

Perhaps it my upbringing, but from the earliest age,I, was taught above all, to respect other people, their values and beliefs, irrespective if I agreed with them are not. Why? because its the right thing to do, and its how I would like to be treated. Mutual respect and equality.

As the debate on the radio continued, virtually all callers expressed their disgust and anger at the decision. It was then that a Jewish woman, who was also angered by the decision, came onto the radio. As she debated with a man who supported the cancelling ofthe Nativity play she cited, that not only was this an infringement of religious freedom but political correctness gone mad.

Indeed, she destroyed any argument that he put up. This Jewish woman like me could not understand how expressing a religious belief in a free and democratic society could be so offensive. We have no problem with other religious expressions of faith so why is a nativity play so wrong?

The answer, is that its not wrong, nor offensive, infact accusations of the such are more a demonstration of the accusers guilt of prejudiced opinion. People who attempt to demonise religion claim that they do so to ‘protect’ people and ensure that our society is equal. Instead all they are doing is denying the 96% of the people who live on our island a chance to demonstrate their right of religious expression. Christmas does not threaten people.

Let common sense, equality and respect prevail. Stop attacking Christmas, If you don’t believe or not have no affiliation with the Christmas message, that is perfectly fine, but allow those of us who do believe,the opportunity to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, the way countless Irish generations have done before us.

Nollaig Shona Duit!

SDLP Learn to Swim!

Gerry Junior

Have the SDLP finally abandoned their arm bands and taken the plunge. It would appear from the this picture on their website they have now jumped in bed with the swimmers aka Socialist Workers Party.


People Before Profit, the 'popular' front for the Socialist Workers Party, a convenient banner to contest elections under.

Either some misinformed Stoopers unknowingly posed with the poster or this is yet another step in the SDLP to becoming a fully fledged 'revolutionary' party.

For years we had to listen to his holyness John Hume preach that 'we' were post nationalist and that 'we' were all European now. Then with the electoral rise of Sinn Féin and with it the popular growth of Republicanism, the SDLP jumped on the bandwagon - casting aside the messiah's gospel.

So following their conversion to Republicanism and Mark Durkan's endless quoting of the 1916 Proclamation, could the 'think tanks' in Stoop HQ now be casting Social Democracy aside in pursuit of Marx.

I wonder will General Secretary Durkan have approval from comrade Attwood and Kelly?

First Dublin Republican Youth Forum a success

Last Wednesday the first Dublin Republican Youth Forum was held. The meeting was a discussion with life long republican and ex-prisoner Jim Monaghan. Jim recently released a book of his collected journals from his four years in prison in Colombia and spoke at length about his experiences. It was a very interesting and inspiring discussion.



While many young activists were involved or supported the "Bring Them Home" campaign Jim shone new light on the injustice and dirty tricks which kept him and his comrades imprisoned. He spoke of the claims that the FARC were using IRA technology which was later destroyed by an expert on the armed struggle, the tampered with forensics, all of which was provided by the United States which they refused to defend despite failing to withdraw such claims and "evidence". It was made quite obvious that these actions had damaged both the peace process in Ireland and Colombia. At one point it was claimed Jim and his comrades had been seen training FARC guerillas on dates which were refuted by video evidence, work timesheets and eye witness accounts from Irish and Cuban officials. Despite these disgraceful failings in the investigation the men were retried after being acquitted and sentenced to seventeen years.

Jim then spoke about his time in prison. The difference between the chaotic though communal Colombian run prisons and the regimented, cold and often brutal US run prisons where they cut and paste Thatchers policy of criminalisation to the Colombian conflict. He spoke of being housed in the paramilitary controlled wing and having a E40,000 contract on their lives. On one occassion the paramilitaries (a collection of drugdealers and murders who act as guns for hire for the rich and powerful) threw a bomb down the stairs to where they would usually be making their daily phonecall at that time. They were at most times in grave danger from these groups.

During a questions and answer session the right wing propaganda about Colombia and guerillas was discussed as well, analysis of the Colombian peoples struggle and the future for their peace process.

Ciarán Fitzgerald one of the organisers of the forum had this to say:

"The meeting was a great success. The informal and comradely nature of the discussion made sure everyone contributed and all questions were answered, although I'm sure we could have talked all night. Jim is an inspiration to young republicans and was the perfect choice to start this new venture."

The Fight For Our Resources Continues

On Saturday 1 December, concerned Dubliners including members of Ógra Shinn Féin took part in a picket of the Shell station in Glasnevin. The picket was well attended and participants handed out leaflets to passers by and advised motorists to boycott Shell, most passing through the station without stopping or even not pulling in at all and beeping their horn in solidarity.


Protesters highlighted that while Shell's continued actions in Ireland and around the world are wrong and should be opposed, a great deal of the responsibility lies with the Fianna Fáil/PD/Green government who continue to allow the theft of Irish resources and make plans for further betrayal with the giveaway of other oil and gas fields around the island.

Gardaí were heavy on the ground with two squad cars, a motorcycle cop, a riot van, an unmarked car and six special branch who were taking names and questioning protesters.

Cathaoirleach Ógra Átha Cliath Oisín Ó Dubhláin had this to say:

"Concerned Irish men and women must continue to opposed the theft of their natural resources. Shell must be shown that their actions both here and around the world are not acceptable, the FF/PD/Green government must have the disgrace of their deal and continued compliance with that deal shoved in their face at every opportunity. The people of Ireland deserve nothing less"