Andersonstown honours its republican dead

ADDRESS: MLA Paul Maskey gives the main oration

TWO HUNDRED people marched through the streets of Andersonstown in West Belfast on Saturday, 31 May, in a march to remember the area’s republican dead.
In bright sunshine the parade, which saw the families of the dead carry photographs of their loved ones in an act of remembrance, made its way to the memorial garden at the Andersonstown Social Club, formerly the PDF (Prisoners’ Dependants’ Fund) Club.
Two managers of the club, Danny Burke and Jack McCartan, were shot dead in the club (in 1974 and 1977 respectively) by the British Army.

YOUTH
Sinn Féin Assembly member Paul Maskey addressed the crowd and in his speech he focused on the youth of many of those whose names are inscribed on the garden’s memorial stones.
“When we look at the ages of the men and women on memorials like this throughout the country it is very important to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of our youth throughout the struggle.
“It is important to acknowledge our young people for what they have achieved and to encourage more of our youth into our party.”
Maskey commended the work being carried out by young members of Sinn Féin in the area and singled out Lisburn Councillor Charlene O’Hara, who at 19 is the youngest councillor in Ireland.