Apologies, folks, posted a few days late, but draw took place at about 2.30 on last Friday.
Draw was conducted by Graham mcCormack and Dave Barry, who duly ensured there was no funny stuff. If proof was needed, they both got Cameroon and Algeria respectively....
1 Seana Mallaghan, (tyrone) – South Africa
2 Kerry mcColgan (Tyrone) – Paraguay
3 Majella Cremin (Cork) – USA
4 Myles Gaffney (Cork) – France
5 Dave Barry (Cork) – Algeria
6 Mark Moloney (Dublin) – Spain
7 Eolan De Burca (Cork) – Brazil
8 Finty Butler (Donegal) – England
9 Barry McColgan (Tyrone) – Slovenia
10 Dan Harty (Tipperary) – South Korea
11 Maura Bullman (Cork) – North Korea
12 Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick) – Switzerland
13 Liam Duggan (Derry) – Nigeria
14 Ross Taylor (everywhere) – Argentina
15 Ken O’Connell (Cork) – Uruguay
16 Henry Cremin (Cork) – Serbia
17 Mick Nugent (Cork) – Germany
18 Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork) – Portugal
19 Shane McKenna (Dublin) – Slovakia
20 Mick Hennessy (Cork) – Ivory Coast
21 Marie Claire Devlin (Tyrone) – Honduras
22 Sean Perill (Galway) – Denmark
23 Graham McCormack (Cork) – Cameroon
24 Don (Cork)– Greece
25 Joe Lynch (Cork) – Netherlands
26 Mairead Farrell (galway)– Australia
27 Luke Callinan (Athlone)
28 DJ O Driscoll (Cork) – Ghana
29 Dave Collins (Cork)– Japan
30 Oisin (Dublin)– Mexico
31 Ciaran May (Fermanagh) – New Zealand
32 Eddie Gallagher (Monaghan) - Chile
Daily news updates and press releases from Sinn Féin Republican Youth- Irelands fastest growing political youth organisation.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
South Roscommon Ógra protest against Youth Unemployment
In an effort to highlight the ever-increasing problem of unemployment in the midlands, Ógra Shinn Féin activists from the Toby Mannion Cumann in South Roscommon recently placed a banner on the by-pass bridge running over a main road into Athlone. The banner, which reads, '3985 Athlone people on the dole; 3985 reasons for New Government' is part of Ógra's campaign to spark debate around the issue of youth unemployment.
As the numbers joining the dole queue's inflates day by day, Ógra members in the area have insisted that this is just one of a number of actions that will take place across South Roscommon over the coming weeks and months to try and highlight the burning issue. Speaking after the banner had been secured to railing over the constantly-busy Roscommon Road, Ógra spokesperson David McWeeney had this to say:
'In May alone, a further 107 people signed on the dole in the Athlone area, that's an average of 3.5 people a day. It is abundantly clear to young people in South Roscommon that this Fianna Fáil-led government is more interested in bailing out the banks and protecting the wealthy than investing in the Irish people's future as a whole. As the live register figures from last week show, of the 3,985 people who signed on in the Athlone area in May 2010, 21% of those were under 25 years old.
It's time for real change and seeing as this Government is unwilling to initiate a credible jobs plan in order to get Ireland back to work they should step down immediately. That being said, the ousting of the government will mean nothing if, come the next general election, we elect a government comprising of either Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael. The neo-liberal policies of both these parties will simply drive the cycle of recession-boom-recession-boom.
Recent events have vindicated Sinn Féin's stance on a range of issues, as the recent Honohan and Regling & Watson banking reports have shown, Sinn Féin's policy on the bank guarantee was spot on. Proposals have also been put forward by Sinn Féin to create at least 50,000 jobs for young unemployed in the 26 counties. During the Lisbon Treaty Fianna Fáil told us to vote 'Yes to jobs', and although the treaty was voted in after being forced on the Irish people a second time, we still have no jobs. It seems that this government will never implement a real jobs strategy because it's not a priority for them, they are completely out of touch with ordinary people and all we will get from them is more of the same; false apologies and rhetoric about 'turning corners'. Why not ask all of the lone parents, the workers on lowest wages in society and the homeless what they think of the rhetoric and these heartfelt apologies?'
As the numbers joining the dole queue's inflates day by day, Ógra members in the area have insisted that this is just one of a number of actions that will take place across South Roscommon over the coming weeks and months to try and highlight the burning issue. Speaking after the banner had been secured to railing over the constantly-busy Roscommon Road, Ógra spokesperson David McWeeney had this to say:'In May alone, a further 107 people signed on the dole in the Athlone area, that's an average of 3.5 people a day. It is abundantly clear to young people in South Roscommon that this Fianna Fáil-led government is more interested in bailing out the banks and protecting the wealthy than investing in the Irish people's future as a whole. As the live register figures from last week show, of the 3,985 people who signed on in the Athlone area in May 2010, 21% of those were under 25 years old.
It's time for real change and seeing as this Government is unwilling to initiate a credible jobs plan in order to get Ireland back to work they should step down immediately. That being said, the ousting of the government will mean nothing if, come the next general election, we elect a government comprising of either Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael. The neo-liberal policies of both these parties will simply drive the cycle of recession-boom-recession-boom.
Recent events have vindicated Sinn Féin's stance on a range of issues, as the recent Honohan and Regling & Watson banking reports have shown, Sinn Féin's policy on the bank guarantee was spot on. Proposals have also been put forward by Sinn Féin to create at least 50,000 jobs for young unemployed in the 26 counties. During the Lisbon Treaty Fianna Fáil told us to vote 'Yes to jobs', and although the treaty was voted in after being forced on the Irish people a second time, we still have no jobs. It seems that this government will never implement a real jobs strategy because it's not a priority for them, they are completely out of touch with ordinary people and all we will get from them is more of the same; false apologies and rhetoric about 'turning corners'. Why not ask all of the lone parents, the workers on lowest wages in society and the homeless what they think of the rhetoric and these heartfelt apologies?'
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Bloody Sunday Families Give Hope to Oppressed Peoples Across the World
Barry McColgan
Dermot Crowley Ógra Shinn Féin
West Tyrone
Widgery is dead; the Saville inquiry, brought about by the resolute campaigning of the families has ensured that it has been resigned to the dustbin of history.
The families of the victims can feel very proud of themselves knowing that their unwavering campaigning brought the British Government to a point were they have had to apologise and shine the light of truth on the events of Bloody Sunday, exonerating the victims and proclaiming their innocence.
(Kay Duddy, of Bloody Sunday Families celebrates release of Saville Inquiry)
(Barry McColgan, Ógra Shinn Féin speaking alongside John Kelly of the Bloody Sunday Families in London, February 07)
Dermot Crowley Ógra Shinn Féin
West Tyrone
Widgery is dead; the Saville inquiry, brought about by the resolute campaigning of the families has ensured that it has been resigned to the dustbin of history.
The families of the victims can feel very proud of themselves knowing that their unwavering campaigning brought the British Government to a point were they have had to apologise and shine the light of truth on the events of Bloody Sunday, exonerating the victims and proclaiming their innocence.
(Kay Duddy, of Bloody Sunday Families celebrates release of Saville Inquiry)The 30th January 1972 is a date forever and brutally etched into the minds of the people of Derry.
Bloody Sunday would come to represent all that is wrong with the British occupation in Ireland, a willingness to suppress those who dared rise up in the name of democracy, a brutal desire to shoot the people down in full view of the watching world, and to blatantly and shamelessly lie and cover up the state murder of innocent civilians.
Fast-forward almost 40 years, and it's very clear that Israel have been taking very precise lessons from the Brits in their most recent slaughter of humanitarian workers.
Bloody Sunday was another reminder of Britain's bloodied and illegimate occupation of Ireland, and a throwback to another Bloody Sunday, when the Black and Tans butchered innocent civilians, indiscrimately firing into the stands of Dublin's Croke Park.
The massacre in Derry shone a spotlight on the gerrymandering and degradation of the nationalist and republican people in the north, and was the beginning of huge outpourings of organised solidarity across the world.
There was massive anger across Ireland and the world, the British Embassy was rightfully burned to the ground in Dublin, marches sprung up across the globe, and many famous people joined in their condemnation, Teddy Kennedy lambasted the Brits, and John Lennon penned and sung the famous 'Bloody Sunday' song.
Even the clergy joined in solidarity with the victims and families, retired bishop of Derry Edward Daly, who administered last rights to victims on the day, speaking as recent as yesterday said,
"I felt a responsibility to tell the story of what I saw and what I saw was a young fellow who was posing no threat to anybody being shot dead unjustifiably."
Closer to Derry, and across Ireland, young people were outraged by the murder, cover up and lies. Many from a generation already radicalised by the pogroms and the civil rights movement, joined the Irish Republican Army.
Bloody Sunday demonstrated to many that the British Government were not interested in listening to the demands of peaceful demonstrators, and were only too willing to murder and injure civil rights protesters with impunity.
While the actions of the British Paratroop Regiment was intended too suppress the people, to divide, and scare them into hiding, it had the opposite effect.
Over the next 38 years, the nationalist and republican people of the north got of their knees, resisted and organised against the oppression and inequality and transformed the northern state, of constant inspiration in all of this have been the innocent men murdered on the streets of Derry.
Bloody Sunday would come to represent all that is wrong with the British occupation in Ireland, a willingness to suppress those who dared rise up in the name of democracy, a brutal desire to shoot the people down in full view of the watching world, and to blatantly and shamelessly lie and cover up the state murder of innocent civilians.
Fast-forward almost 40 years, and it's very clear that Israel have been taking very precise lessons from the Brits in their most recent slaughter of humanitarian workers.
Bloody Sunday was another reminder of Britain's bloodied and illegimate occupation of Ireland, and a throwback to another Bloody Sunday, when the Black and Tans butchered innocent civilians, indiscrimately firing into the stands of Dublin's Croke Park.
The massacre in Derry shone a spotlight on the gerrymandering and degradation of the nationalist and republican people in the north, and was the beginning of huge outpourings of organised solidarity across the world.
There was massive anger across Ireland and the world, the British Embassy was rightfully burned to the ground in Dublin, marches sprung up across the globe, and many famous people joined in their condemnation, Teddy Kennedy lambasted the Brits, and John Lennon penned and sung the famous 'Bloody Sunday' song.
Even the clergy joined in solidarity with the victims and families, retired bishop of Derry Edward Daly, who administered last rights to victims on the day, speaking as recent as yesterday said,
"I felt a responsibility to tell the story of what I saw and what I saw was a young fellow who was posing no threat to anybody being shot dead unjustifiably."
Closer to Derry, and across Ireland, young people were outraged by the murder, cover up and lies. Many from a generation already radicalised by the pogroms and the civil rights movement, joined the Irish Republican Army.
Bloody Sunday demonstrated to many that the British Government were not interested in listening to the demands of peaceful demonstrators, and were only too willing to murder and injure civil rights protesters with impunity.
While the actions of the British Paratroop Regiment was intended too suppress the people, to divide, and scare them into hiding, it had the opposite effect.
Over the next 38 years, the nationalist and republican people of the north got of their knees, resisted and organised against the oppression and inequality and transformed the northern state, of constant inspiration in all of this have been the innocent men murdered on the streets of Derry.
(Barry McColgan, Ógra Shinn Féin speaking alongside John Kelly of the Bloody Sunday Families in London, February 07)I was born in Omagh, County Tyrone in 1984, some 12 years after the massacre.
Despite being born so long after Bloody Sunday, I grew up with the images and the stories of that day surrounding me. It always triggered a deep feeling of anger and disgust, yet also immense sorrow for the victims and their families.
I attended the annual march as a boy and in more recent times, Ógra Shinn Féin have brought young republicans from across Ireland for the entire weekend of the march to provide, education, debate and discussion around the events of Bloody Sunday, of truth and justice and international events around the world with similarities to the
state murder on that day.
From initial limited knowledge and understanding of Bloody Sunday, the engagements with the families and truth campaigners have deepened and developed our understanding, and shown us the true extent to the cover up. If anything the more I learnt, the more I was angered.
The murder of the 14 innocent men on that fateful day in January 1972 should not have happened; all their lives were unnecessarily cut short because of the directed and calculated actions of foreign and illegal occupying soldiers.
The families have done their loved ones proud, they have campaigned tirelessly for truth and justice, they have kept their memory alive, they have given hope to thousands upon thousands of victims of oppression and brutality across the world and they have never ever given up and have carried the campaign to were it is today, they have declared to the world their relatives and the people of Derry's innocence.
Despite being born so long after Bloody Sunday, I grew up with the images and the stories of that day surrounding me. It always triggered a deep feeling of anger and disgust, yet also immense sorrow for the victims and their families.
I attended the annual march as a boy and in more recent times, Ógra Shinn Féin have brought young republicans from across Ireland for the entire weekend of the march to provide, education, debate and discussion around the events of Bloody Sunday, of truth and justice and international events around the world with similarities to the
state murder on that day.
From initial limited knowledge and understanding of Bloody Sunday, the engagements with the families and truth campaigners have deepened and developed our understanding, and shown us the true extent to the cover up. If anything the more I learnt, the more I was angered.
The murder of the 14 innocent men on that fateful day in January 1972 should not have happened; all their lives were unnecessarily cut short because of the directed and calculated actions of foreign and illegal occupying soldiers.
The families have done their loved ones proud, they have campaigned tirelessly for truth and justice, they have kept their memory alive, they have given hope to thousands upon thousands of victims of oppression and brutality across the world and they have never ever given up and have carried the campaign to were it is today, they have declared to the world their relatives and the people of Derry's innocence.
(Ógra Shinn Féin marching in Bloody Sunday March, January 2009)
When I think of the extremely arduous, at many times torturous journey the families have been on, and their unyielding drive, I am reminded of the words of another young man, deeply politicised and affected by the events of Bloody Sunday, Bobby Sands,
”'Never give up'. No matter how bad, how black, how painful, how heart-breaking, 'Never give up', 'Never despair', 'Never lose hope'. Let them bastards laugh at you all they want, let them grin and jibe, allow them to persist in their humiliation, brutality, deprivations, vindictiveness, petty harassments, let them laugh now, because all of that is no longer important or worth a response.”
At this momentous yet emotive time, our thoughts are with the families of the Bloody Sunday victims. You have our ongoing support and solidarity.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
World Day against Child Labour
Joe Lynch
Seamus Courtney Cumann
Cork Institute of Technology
Unbeknown to most people I'm sure, the 12th of June marks the 'World Day Against Child Labour', an international day of action launched by the ILO in 2002 to highlight the huge child labour problem that exists right across the globe.
215 million children are thought to be engaged in forced labour worldwide with approximately half believed to be forced into the sex industry, involved in armed conflict or engaging in debt bondage. There are thought to be in excess of 80 million child labourers in India alone.
In western society we have a tendency to adopt an ostrich effect when it comes to the mistreatment of our brethren in the third world; that if we cant see it - it isn't there.
In truth however, as the main beneficiaries of child labour in undeveloped countries, we have examples to find everywhere; the Nokia phone in your pocket, the Cadburys dairy milk you had for lunch, the Penneys t-shirt you've on, the Nike runners you just took off and the Apple iPod your charging (among countless other products) have all been stained with the sweat and tears of exploited children in the pursuit of private profit.
As a socialist youth organisation we stand in solidarity with all young people who face exploitation at the hands of capitalist greed and that solidarity extends far beyond our own shores - child labour must end now!
Seamus Courtney Cumann
Cork Institute of Technology
Unbeknown to most people I'm sure, the 12th of June marks the 'World Day Against Child Labour', an international day of action launched by the ILO in 2002 to highlight the huge child labour problem that exists right across the globe.
215 million children are thought to be engaged in forced labour worldwide with approximately half believed to be forced into the sex industry, involved in armed conflict or engaging in debt bondage. There are thought to be in excess of 80 million child labourers in India alone.
In western society we have a tendency to adopt an ostrich effect when it comes to the mistreatment of our brethren in the third world; that if we cant see it - it isn't there.
In truth however, as the main beneficiaries of child labour in undeveloped countries, we have examples to find everywhere; the Nokia phone in your pocket, the Cadburys dairy milk you had for lunch, the Penneys t-shirt you've on, the Nike runners you just took off and the Apple iPod your charging (among countless other products) have all been stained with the sweat and tears of exploited children in the pursuit of private profit.
As a socialist youth organisation we stand in solidarity with all young people who face exploitation at the hands of capitalist greed and that solidarity extends far beyond our own shores - child labour must end now!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Clár for Youth Camp Announced
The clár for the National Youth Camp in Down has been announced. Please note the clár is subject to change. Any activists who have not registered should do so urgently, as places are limited.. If you are interested in attending contact Fra Cochrane on 07783453986 or your Ógra Cuige Organiser.
Friday
6pm - Arrival and registration -
.
6.30pm - Dinner
7.30 - Talk - "Removing the Barriers - How to unite communities"
9.30 - Session Brandy Pad, Castlewellan
Saturday
8.30am - Breakfast
9.30am - Battle of Ballynahinch/United Irishmen Tour
1pm - Lunch
2pm - Youth Debate - "Irish Reunification - Myth or Reality?"
3pm - Republican Tour of South Down
6pm - Dinner
7pm - Miami 5 Talk Cuban Ambassador & Head of Miami 5 Campaign
9pm - Rebel Night - Castlewellan GAA club.
Sunday
9am - Breakfast
10am - Depart for Bodenstown
The bus for Bodenstown will be leaving at 10 am sharp, please note.
For those travelling by bus from the north the bus will be travelling at these times
Friday
6pm - Arrival and registration -
.
6.30pm - Dinner
7.30 - Talk - "Removing the Barriers - How to unite communities"
9.30 - Session Brandy Pad, Castlewellan
Saturday
8.30am - Breakfast
9.30am - Battle of Ballynahinch/United Irishmen Tour
1pm - Lunch
2pm - Youth Debate - "Irish Reunification - Myth or Reality?"
3pm - Republican Tour of South Down
6pm - Dinner
7pm - Miami 5 Talk Cuban Ambassador & Head of Miami 5 Campaign
9pm - Rebel Night - Castlewellan GAA club.
Sunday
9am - Breakfast
10am - Depart for Bodenstown
The bus for Bodenstown will be leaving at 10 am sharp, please note.
For those travelling by bus from the north the bus will be travelling at these times
1pm - Derry (Free Derry Corner)
1.30pm - Strabane (Busdepot)
2pm - Omagh (Sinn Fein Office)
2.30pm - Ballygawley (Roundabout)
2.45pm - Dungannon (Busdepot)
3.15pm - Lurgan (Train Station)
4.00pm - Newry (Busdepot)
Arrive Newcastle for 5pm
1.30pm - Strabane (Busdepot)
2pm - Omagh (Sinn Fein Office)
2.30pm - Ballygawley (Roundabout)
2.45pm - Dungannon (Busdepot)
3.15pm - Lurgan (Train Station)
4.00pm - Newry (Busdepot)
Arrive Newcastle for 5pm
Galway Ógra highlights Flotilla atrocities
Galway Ógra Shinn Féin took to the streets last Friday calling on the Irish Government to expel the Israeli Ambassador. Hundreds of leaflets were distributed on Shop Street, a main thoroughfare in Galway City, in order to raise awareness of the many atrocities which have occured at the hands of the Israelis.
Speaking after the event, Conor Stitt from Galway ÓSF said: “We got a great response from the people of Galway. It seems that Galwegians are outraged at the murder of innocent humanitarian workers carried out by the Israeli "Defence" Forces (IDF) last week and so our hope is that sufficient pressure will be placed on the Government, forcing them to expel Zion Evrony immediately.”
Galway Ógra continued their demonstration by taking part in a locally organised march through Galway City. During the march, which came to a close with a wreath being placed in Galway Bay, slogans such as ‘Israeli Ambassador, out, out, out!’ and ‘Oppression is a crime, Israel out of Palestine!’ could be heard loud and clear.
Saoirse don Phailistín anois!
Speaking after the event, Conor Stitt from Galway ÓSF said: “We got a great response from the people of Galway. It seems that Galwegians are outraged at the murder of innocent humanitarian workers carried out by the Israeli "Defence" Forces (IDF) last week and so our hope is that sufficient pressure will be placed on the Government, forcing them to expel Zion Evrony immediately.”
Galway Ógra continued their demonstration by taking part in a locally organised march through Galway City. During the march, which came to a close with a wreath being placed in Galway Bay, slogans such as ‘Israeli Ambassador, out, out, out!’ and ‘Oppression is a crime, Israel out of Palestine!’ could be heard loud and clear.
Saoirse don Phailistín anois!
Engaging meeting on Youth Unemployment
Last saturday saw young republicans gather for the Youth Unemployment Conference in Dublin, to discuss and debate the various issues surrounding youth unemployment. Youth activists from across the country gathered in the Teachers Club in Parnell Square.
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Youth debate l ro r, Seána Mallaghan, SF, Conor Ryan Labour, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire SF, Eddie McCabe, SP
The conference opened up with a discussion on 'What is the Reality for the Young Unemployed in 2010?', during which Bríd O'Brien of the Irish National Organisation for the Unemployed set the scene for activists, during which she detailed the precarious financial situation many of the young employed find themselves in, and the social impact it has on families and communities.
This was followed by a Panel discussion which addressed a variety of issues related to unemployment.
.jpg)
Bríd O Brien of the INOU speaks
He stated that the crucial thing to get the economy moving again and to create jobs, and to put money in to the productive economy. He noted that we needed to avoid being constrained by 'Statist models, and that the state sector needed to reclaim the word Entreprise, and promote, Public Entreprise. Ultimately, he said Government Policies were driving down jobs, which is in turn exacerbating the Economic and fiscal crisis.
Following this, Conor O'Gorman of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions spoke on the topic of 'How trade unions create jobs, and why we need them', along with Ógra activist and representative of the Independent Workers Union, Joe Lynch. Conor welcomed the opportunity to speak on the topic, and noted that sometimes people are inclined to forget the fact the trade unions do in fact protect jobs. On the topic of Social Partership, both speakers accepted that it was now dead, Conor opining that it was never a partnership of equals, while Joe Lynch was of the opinion that workers locking themselves in to such long term agreements was not sensible. Both also flagged up the very detrimental role that employment agencies can play in low-wage workplaces, and also noted that there were still too few people who made the connection between the way they cast their vote, and the conditions in their workplace.
.jpg)
L to R James Doorley NYCI, Michael Taft, UNITE, Conor O'Gorman ICTU, Joe Lynch IWU
James Doorley of the National Youth Council then spoke on the topic of 'Creating a vocal lobby for the young unemployed, during which he outlined the work of the Youth Council over the last number of years, and what the have come across the young unemployed. He felt it was the number one issue for young people, and to some extent was being ignored, but the scale of it was clear, of the 5000 new unemployed in the latest live register figures, half were under 25. The Youth council see this as their big advocacy prioities over the coming time, and James flagged up their own plans to host a conference, later in the year.
The final session involved a lively cross party debate involving National Organiser Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire on behalf of SF, Conor Ryan on behalf of Labour Youth, and Eddie mcCabe of the Socialist Youth, on the issue of creating a political alternative. Conor highlighted labour policy in a wide variety of areas, and made the case for Labour as a potential party of government, while Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, made the argument, that now was the time for the left to work together and to really create the possibillity of a progressive government, while Eddie noted the systematic nature of the economic crisis and of the need to deconstruct capitalism. This was followed by a very healthy debate before the conference was wrapped up and activists moved in to the protest against the flotilla killings
Commenting on the conference National Organiser, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire stated that he felt the conference was an extremely interesting and engaging event.
'I very much enjoyed the level of debate and discussion here today, and believe that we can gain a great deal from it. It is the big issue for young people at the minute, and we need to focus on it.
However this conference will be worthless unless we use this as a springboard to get out there in the communities and get active on this issue and get campaigning and I urge all activists to do so.'
.jpg)
Youth debate l ro r, Seána Mallaghan, SF, Conor Ryan Labour, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire SF, Eddie McCabe, SPThe conference opened up with a discussion on 'What is the Reality for the Young Unemployed in 2010?', during which Bríd O'Brien of the Irish National Organisation for the Unemployed set the scene for activists, during which she detailed the precarious financial situation many of the young employed find themselves in, and the social impact it has on families and communities.
'Government Policies driving down jobs'
The first speaker, on the topic of 'How to create jobs' was Michael Taft of Unite, economist and blogger. In a contribution very much aimed at creating debate, and challenging the activists present.
.jpg)
Bríd O Brien of the INOU speaksHe stated that the crucial thing to get the economy moving again and to create jobs, and to put money in to the productive economy. He noted that we needed to avoid being constrained by 'Statist models, and that the state sector needed to reclaim the word Entreprise, and promote, Public Entreprise. Ultimately, he said Government Policies were driving down jobs, which is in turn exacerbating the Economic and fiscal crisis.
Following this, Conor O'Gorman of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions spoke on the topic of 'How trade unions create jobs, and why we need them', along with Ógra activist and representative of the Independent Workers Union, Joe Lynch. Conor welcomed the opportunity to speak on the topic, and noted that sometimes people are inclined to forget the fact the trade unions do in fact protect jobs. On the topic of Social Partership, both speakers accepted that it was now dead, Conor opining that it was never a partnership of equals, while Joe Lynch was of the opinion that workers locking themselves in to such long term agreements was not sensible. Both also flagged up the very detrimental role that employment agencies can play in low-wage workplaces, and also noted that there were still too few people who made the connection between the way they cast their vote, and the conditions in their workplace.
.jpg)
L to R James Doorley NYCI, Michael Taft, UNITE, Conor O'Gorman ICTU, Joe Lynch IWUJames Doorley of the National Youth Council then spoke on the topic of 'Creating a vocal lobby for the young unemployed, during which he outlined the work of the Youth Council over the last number of years, and what the have come across the young unemployed. He felt it was the number one issue for young people, and to some extent was being ignored, but the scale of it was clear, of the 5000 new unemployed in the latest live register figures, half were under 25. The Youth council see this as their big advocacy prioities over the coming time, and James flagged up their own plans to host a conference, later in the year.
The final session involved a lively cross party debate involving National Organiser Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire on behalf of SF, Conor Ryan on behalf of Labour Youth, and Eddie mcCabe of the Socialist Youth, on the issue of creating a political alternative. Conor highlighted labour policy in a wide variety of areas, and made the case for Labour as a potential party of government, while Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, made the argument, that now was the time for the left to work together and to really create the possibillity of a progressive government, while Eddie noted the systematic nature of the economic crisis and of the need to deconstruct capitalism. This was followed by a very healthy debate before the conference was wrapped up and activists moved in to the protest against the flotilla killings
Commenting on the conference National Organiser, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire stated that he felt the conference was an extremely interesting and engaging event.
'I very much enjoyed the level of debate and discussion here today, and believe that we can gain a great deal from it. It is the big issue for young people at the minute, and we need to focus on it.
However this conference will be worthless unless we use this as a springboard to get out there in the communities and get active on this issue and get campaigning and I urge all activists to do so.'
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
Passing of Ógra activist Pádraig Barton
Speaking following the news of the death of Pádraig Barton Sinn Féin Foyle Martina Anderson said:
"There is a great sadness on hearing news of Pádraig's death. For someone so young he was very well known in the Republican family across Derry especially for his work on behalf of Ógra Shinn Féin. He was a very articulate and intelligent young man and was to the forefront of many of their campaigns .I have had the honour of taking part with Pádraig in many commemorations particularly in the Bogside and Brandywell over the last few years. His death is a great loss to everyone who knew him and on behalf of Sinn Féin in Derry I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to the extended Barton, Keenan families at this very difficult time."
Funeral Details
BARTON, PADRAIG (PODDY) - June 7, 2010, (suddenly), at Altnagelvin Hospital, beloved son of Roisin and Henry, loving brother of Liam, Sean, Colm, Aine and Seamas. Funeral leaving his home, 9 Brandywell Avenue on Saturday 12th inst. at 9.20 a.m. to St. Columba's Church, Long Tower for Requiem Mass at 10.00 a.m. Interment afterwards in The City Cemetery. Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by the entire family circle. Go nDeana Dia trocaire ar a anam uasal.
"There is a great sadness on hearing news of Pádraig's death. For someone so young he was very well known in the Republican family across Derry especially for his work on behalf of Ógra Shinn Féin. He was a very articulate and intelligent young man and was to the forefront of many of their campaigns .I have had the honour of taking part with Pádraig in many commemorations particularly in the Bogside and Brandywell over the last few years. His death is a great loss to everyone who knew him and on behalf of Sinn Féin in Derry I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to the extended Barton, Keenan families at this very difficult time."
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness speaking from London also extended his sincere condolences to the Barton/Keenan family. Martin McGuinness said:
"It was with great shock and sadness that I learned of Pádraig being knocked down and of his subsequent death. I have known and respected the Barton and Keenan families for many years and they have played a very influential part in the life of the community and republican politics in Derry. Pádraig even though young in years made his unique contribution through his involvement with republican youth groups in the City. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Róisin and the extended Barton/Keenan family and to all of Pádraig's friends.”
Funeral Details
BARTON, PADRAIG (PODDY) - June 7, 2010, (suddenly), at Altnagelvin Hospital, beloved son of Roisin and Henry, loving brother of Liam, Sean, Colm, Aine and Seamas. Funeral leaving his home, 9 Brandywell Avenue on Saturday 12th inst. at 9.20 a.m. to St. Columba's Church, Long Tower for Requiem Mass at 10.00 a.m. Interment afterwards in The City Cemetery. Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by the entire family circle. Go nDeana Dia trocaire ar a anam uasal.
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Enniskillen Protest at Rachel Corrie Raid
Speaking after hosting a demonstration in protest at the recent actions of the Israeli government Sinn Féin Councillor Phil Flanagan has said that Saturday's raid by the Israeli military on the Irish ship Rachel Corrie was 'a completely unjustified and unacceptable use of force'.
The Erne West Councillor said: "The Rachel Corrie contains only humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. It is being crewed by Human Rights activists. The Israeli government know this to be the case. They know the Rachel Corrie and her cargo presents no threat to Israel. The human rights activists onboard the boat had made it clear they had no issue with UN officials checking the cargo before they proceeded to Gaza.
The Erne West Councillor said: "The Rachel Corrie contains only humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. It is being crewed by Human Rights activists. The Israeli government know this to be the case. They know the Rachel Corrie and her cargo presents no threat to Israel. The human rights activists onboard the boat had made it clear they had no issue with UN officials checking the cargo before they proceeded to Gaza. "The Rachel Corrie should have been allowed to proceed to Gaza without Israeli aggression. The decision of the Israeli government to board the Rachel Corrie and divert her away from Gaza is a completely unjustified and unacceptable use of force. This is an attack on an Irish flagged vessel and it demands a strong response by the Irish government. "Sinn Féin have already made clear that part of this response must be the expulsion of the Israeli Ambassador from Ireland."
Monday, June 07, 2010
Leaflet Drop in Castlebar for National Campaign
As part of Ógra Shinn Féin’s national campaign, ‘Who fears to speak of a United Ireland?’, a team of dedicated Ógra activists took to the streets of Castlebar, Co. Mayo last week to carry out what proved to be a hugely successful leaflet-drop. The evident gender imbalance within the group on the day did not hamper effectiveness and several estates in the scenic Springfield and Fortlands areas of the republican town were targeted in the leaflet-blitz.
Éadaoin Whyte, a local Ógra activist, felt that the day was a complete success and afterwards reflected on the productive evening, saying, ‘We managed to distribute the United Ireland leaflets quite well around the town and despite a small number of sporadic attacks carried out by a few outraged canines, the people we met and engaged with in the estates and on the issue were very receptive and interested in what our literature had to say. The leaflet is an excellent method of drawing attention to the arguments for a United Ireland and I think it’s extremely important to organise activities like this so that leaflets are circulated to local houses because the debate on the subject is ignited among the local people’.
As the national campaign steps up for the summer months this activity and others like it are a precursor to a number of events which will take place across the Connacht Cúige and, indeed, throughout the Island and further afield over the coming weeks and months in order to gain popular support for a United Ireland!
Éadaoin Whyte, a local Ógra activist, felt that the day was a complete success and afterwards reflected on the productive evening, saying, ‘We managed to distribute the United Ireland leaflets quite well around the town and despite a small number of sporadic attacks carried out by a few outraged canines, the people we met and engaged with in the estates and on the issue were very receptive and interested in what our literature had to say. The leaflet is an excellent method of drawing attention to the arguments for a United Ireland and I think it’s extremely important to organise activities like this so that leaflets are circulated to local houses because the debate on the subject is ignited among the local people’.
As the national campaign steps up for the summer months this activity and others like it are a precursor to a number of events which will take place across the Connacht Cúige and, indeed, throughout the Island and further afield over the coming weeks and months in order to gain popular support for a United Ireland!
Cork Ógra responds to unemployment figures
Ógra Shinn Féin has criticised the government repsonse to the unemployment crisis affecting young people.
With the live register figures released for May showing yet another increase in the unemployed, they have claimed that the suggestion that the crisis was coming under control was premature.
The national unemployed figure now stands at 439,100. There are 19,810 unemployed in Cork City alone, with 3,827 of these under 25.
Ógra erected a banner at the constituency office of Micheal Martin TD, to highlight the failure of the government parties to tackle the crisis.
An Ógra spokesperson had this to say - 'The government remains unconcerned with the jobs crisis, and their failure to tackle the ever increasing amoung of young people either signing on or emigrating is scandalous. Indeed, many contributions at Saturday's conference suggested to us that, far from coming to grips with our economic difficulties, their failure to create employment, is in fact exacerbating the economic crisis, and that we are unlikely to see a real recovery for quite some time to come.'
He added 'Ógra will be taking this campaign to the streets over the coming time, highlighting the abject failure of the Government to tackle the jobs crisis, and indeed their complete lack of interest in the welfare of young people, and we encourage all young people to get active and to fightback against this government'.
With the live register figures released for May showing yet another increase in the unemployed, they have claimed that the suggestion that the crisis was coming under control was premature.The national unemployed figure now stands at 439,100. There are 19,810 unemployed in Cork City alone, with 3,827 of these under 25.
Ógra erected a banner at the constituency office of Micheal Martin TD, to highlight the failure of the government parties to tackle the crisis.
An Ógra spokesperson had this to say - 'The government remains unconcerned with the jobs crisis, and their failure to tackle the ever increasing amoung of young people either signing on or emigrating is scandalous. Indeed, many contributions at Saturday's conference suggested to us that, far from coming to grips with our economic difficulties, their failure to create employment, is in fact exacerbating the economic crisis, and that we are unlikely to see a real recovery for quite some time to come.'
He added 'Ógra will be taking this campaign to the streets over the coming time, highlighting the abject failure of the Government to tackle the jobs crisis, and indeed their complete lack of interest in the welfare of young people, and we encourage all young people to get active and to fightback against this government'.
Solidarity with Gaza in Coalisland
On Tuesday the first of June, the Coalisland Clonoe cumann of Ógra Shinn Féin erected a banner highlighting their anger at the outrageous murders of 19 humanitarian aid workers carrying essential supplies to Gaza Gaza
Speaking on the recent events, Ógra activist Álanna Campbell had this to say:
“The actions the Israeli state took upon humanitarian workers bringing much needed aid and relief to the people of Gaza Ireland Gaza Gaza Dublin
Show of support for Gaza on Donegal / Tyrone Border
Over 70 people took part in a protest organised by Strabane Ógra Shinn Féin on the Lifford road in Strabane today, Friday 4th June. Ógra Shinn Féin organised the whiteline picket in response to the recent attacks by the Israeli Defence Forces, on civilian aid ships carrying much needed supplies to the besieged area of Gaza
The protest was addressed by Derry city Sinn Féin councillor Gerry Mac Lochlainn, who has visited Gaza Gaza 
The protest was addressed by Speaking after attending the protest, Strabane Ógra activist Paddy Breslin said;
"It is important that the international community stand in solidarity with the oppressed people of
"We in Ógra Shinn Féin would call on the people to boycott Israeli goods being sold in local shops and attend protests and vigils in their local area in support of the Palestinian people"
Sunday, June 06, 2010
Cork shows solidarity with Palestine
The macCurtain/Doherty cumann of Ógra Shinn Fein took to the streets of Cork on a number of occasions during the last week to show their opposition to the callous murder of 9 humanitarian activists by Israeli forces on board the Aid flotilla due for Gaza.
On the monday a number of Ógra and SF activists attended a well attended rally in Daunt Square, which was attended by a broad cross section of the left in Cork. Despite only a few hours notice, a sizeable crowd assembled and was addressed by, among others, Sinn Féin Cllr Jonathan O'Brien.
The following day saw Ógra activists attending a similar protest in Daunt Square, which was similarly well attended. Following the rally, a number of activists from various organisations (including Ógra) and none, went to Tesco to highlight the fact that Tesco sells a significant amount of Israeli produce. Any Israeli produce in the shop was collected, and stickers placed where they had been, and the Israeli produce was brought to the top of the store and leaflets were handed out to customers highlighting the need for a boycott.
Ógra and Sinn Féin activists continued to attend these rallies through the course of the week, building up to the major rally on Saturday, and are committed to highlighting and encouraging the need for a boycott.
Ógra spokesperson Joe Lynch had this to say, 'Essentially Israel needs to get the same treatment as apartheid South Africa did in the 1980's - it needs to be socially economically, and academically isolated. There is no other way that they are likely to bow to international pressure, unless it is that underwhelming. All these actions advance this cause, even if in just a small way. We will continue to campaign to highlight this, and encourage people to boycott Israeli goods, among the most prominent of these products are Jaffa Oranges, potatoes, and carrots.'
Joe added 'We also believe that the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin, should expel the Israeli ambassador, as an example to the world, of what must be done to make Israel see the need for a peace process and for engagement.'
On the monday a number of Ógra and SF activists attended a well attended rally in Daunt Square, which was attended by a broad cross section of the left in Cork. Despite only a few hours notice, a sizeable crowd assembled and was addressed by, among others, Sinn Féin Cllr Jonathan O'Brien.
The following day saw Ógra activists attending a similar protest in Daunt Square, which was similarly well attended. Following the rally, a number of activists from various organisations (including Ógra) and none, went to Tesco to highlight the fact that Tesco sells a significant amount of Israeli produce. Any Israeli produce in the shop was collected, and stickers placed where they had been, and the Israeli produce was brought to the top of the store and leaflets were handed out to customers highlighting the need for a boycott.
Ógra and Sinn Féin activists continued to attend these rallies through the course of the week, building up to the major rally on Saturday, and are committed to highlighting and encouraging the need for a boycott.
Ógra spokesperson Joe Lynch had this to say, 'Essentially Israel needs to get the same treatment as apartheid South Africa did in the 1980's - it needs to be socially economically, and academically isolated. There is no other way that they are likely to bow to international pressure, unless it is that underwhelming. All these actions advance this cause, even if in just a small way. We will continue to campaign to highlight this, and encourage people to boycott Israeli goods, among the most prominent of these products are Jaffa Oranges, potatoes, and carrots.'
Joe added 'We also believe that the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin, should expel the Israeli ambassador, as an example to the world, of what must be done to make Israel see the need for a peace process and for engagement.'
Thursday, June 03, 2010
Enniskillen Protest Condemns Murder of Aid Workers
Over 30 demonstrators gathered in the Diamond, Enniskillen on Wednesday afternoon to protest at the recent murder by Israeli forces of Humanitarian Aid workers on their way to Gaza.
The event, which was organised and attended by members of Sinn Féin and Ógra Shinn Féin, including Councillors Pat Cox & Phil Flanagan.
Concluding by speaking about the MV Rachel Corrie, which is still en route to Gaza Councillor Flanagan said:
"I strongly support the right of the humanitarian aid workers on the Rachel Corrie to proceed to Gaza and deliver the very necessary humanitarian aid to the people of that region which they are being illegally denied by the Israeli authorities.
"The MV Rachel Corrie is carrying children's toys, school equipment, including pencils, and cement for reconstruction, all of which is denied by the Israeli authorities."
The event, which was organised and attended by members of Sinn Féin and Ógra Shinn Féin, including Councillors Pat Cox & Phil Flanagan.
Speaking after the event, Fermanagh Councillor Phil Flanagan said:
"There is shock and outrage at the actions of the Israeli government in attacking an aid convoy and killing voluntary aid workers in international waters. But there should be no surprise at this. It is the failure of EU governments, including the Irish government, to match words with deeds which has helped Israel to act with impunity.
"The blockade of the Gaza strip is illegal. The boarding of the flotilla was illegal. The separation wall is illegal and the construction of settlements on stolen Palestinian land is illegal.
"The Taoiseach should match his words with deeds and initiate an Irish trade boycott of Israel. He should push for a trade boycott at EU level also as a matter of urgency. The Israeli ambassador should be expelled.”
"Here in Ireland thousands of people have gathered in villages, towns and cities throughout the country to highlight their solidarity with the besieged people of Gaza and express their disgust at the brutal murder of the traveling aid workers. We felt that it was important that Fermanagh republicans were able to play a part in this protest.
"For our part, Sinn Féin will continue to highlight the systematic oppression of the Palestinian people and urge the United Nations to take swift and effective action against Israel following the attack on the aid convoy and also in relation to their continued illegal blockade of Gaza."
Concluding by speaking about the MV Rachel Corrie, which is still en route to Gaza Councillor Flanagan said:
"I strongly support the right of the humanitarian aid workers on the Rachel Corrie to proceed to Gaza and deliver the very necessary humanitarian aid to the people of that region which they are being illegally denied by the Israeli authorities.
"The MV Rachel Corrie is carrying children's toys, school equipment, including pencils, and cement for reconstruction, all of which is denied by the Israeli authorities."
Meath ÓSF call for expulsion of Israeli Ambassador
Meath Ógra Shinn Féin activists took part in a protest in Navan Town Ireland
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Strabane protest in response to attacks on aid flotilla
Sinn Féin and Ógra activists took part in a well attended protest in Strabane town centre today, Wed 2nd June. Over 70 people took to the streets of Strabane at short notice to voice their anger at the recent attacks by the Israeli Defence Forces, on civilian aid ships carrying much needed supplies to the besieged area of
The protest was organised by the local community, concerned at the escalating situation in
Speaking after attending today's protest, Strabane Ógra activist Paddy Breslin said;
"It is important that the international community stand in solidarity with the oppressed people of
"We in Ógra Shinn Féin would call on the people to boycott Israeli goods being sold in local shops and attend protests and vigils in their local area in support of the Palestinian people"
Ógra Shinn Féin will be organising a protest on the Strabane/Lifford Bridge at
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