23 June 2005 Edition

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From Benburb Priory to the H-Blocks - BY BARRY McNALLY (ÓGRA SHINN FÉIN)

Ógra members debating at Benburb Priory

Ógra members debating at Benburb Priory

On behalf of Ógra Shinn Féin, I would like to thank and congratulate Coiste na nIarchimí on the successful Campa Náisúnta Óige held in Benburb Priory on 11 and 12 June. The organisation and hospitality was of the highest standard.

Ógra was one of a number of groups present during the weekend and there was a general consensus that it was a very successful event.

During the weekend, Ulster Unionist representative Alex Kane commented that the number of young republicans in the room was impressive and that young unionists couldn't mobilise such numbers. This in itself spoke volumes about how the political momentum is moving towards Irish freedom. This is being seen by more and more people and has been reflected in recent elections results. This, of course, includes people like Alex Kane shaping our future in a United Ireland, as well as people like Gerry Adams and Bertie Ahern.

It would be unfair to name individuals, however I believe it would be equally unfair not to mention the sterling work and contribution of Coiste Youth Officer, Dominic Adams, in organising the event. Coiste can be proud that they are preparing the youth of today and the leaders of tomorrow to build the Republic.

This preparation continued at the launch of East Tyrone Ógra Shinn Féin on Saturday 18 June. The meeting room of Coalisland Sinn Féin offices was packed with Ógra and senior Sinn Féin activists from the East Tyrone and surrounding areas. They were there for the launch of the new youth section and also to hear the story of the Great Escape of 38 IRA prisoners from the H-Blocks of Long Kesh.

Séamus Campbell from Coalisland and Tony Kelly from the Bogside in Derry, both of whom were on the escape, told how the republican prisoners struck back after the 1981 Hunger Strikes and liberated 38 prisoners from what was described at the time as the 'most secure prison in Europe'. Both men gave detailed accounts of how they planned, perfected and executed the escape. Tony was on the run for many years before being recaptured at the end of the 1980s. Séamus, however, was never recaptured. The gathering was entertained by an at times humourous account of how the men escaped.

• Anyone who is interested in joining East Tyrone Ógra Shinn Féin can contact the Coalisland Sinn Féin office on 87748689, the Dungannon Sinn Féin office on 87722776 or alternatively by email at [email protected].


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