16 March 2005 Edition

Resize: A A A Print

Ógra to remember foundation of Sinn Féin

The recently formed Tyrone Pikemen Association

The recently formed Tyrone Pikemen Association

On Saturday 19 March, Ógra Shinn Féin will mark the 100th Anniversary of the formation of Sinn Féin by planting a liberty tree in the Tyrone Garden of Remembrance in Carrickmore. It is the second such event in West Tyrone Sinn Féin's calendar in the local area. The Tyrone Céad Bliain celebrations were launched at Greencastle crossroads on Sunday 27 February, with the unveiling of a Céad Bliain mural by West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty and the first public appearance of the recently formed Tyrone Pikemen Association. Over 200 republicans attended the event. Nationally, internationally and in Tyrone, republicans are preparing themselves for the 100th anniversary of the party.

In a move reminiscent of the French Revolution, the youth group have taken a historical approach to mark the centenary by deciding to plant liberty trees in towns and villages throughout Tyrone in the coming weeks.

Barry McColgan, one of the main organisers of the event, explained that "during the French Revolution, liberty trees were planted in towns and villages across France in preparation for freedom. The united Irishmen brought this to Ireland in preparation of the 1798 Rebellion so they too would inspire the spirit of freedom in Ireland. Today, we continue this tradition in the prospect of freedom in Ireland and it is fitting that local republicans have formed a Pikeman contingent, which will be present at many of the local Céad Bliain events. This initiative illustrates the continued spirit of republican resistance and struggle, from the era of Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen until today."

BY

BARRY McNALLY

Ógra Shinn Féin


An Phoblacht
44 Parnell Sq.
Dublin 1
Ireland