Launch of Tyrone Volunteers Day – July 13th

The programme of commemorative events takes place on 13th July, coinciding with the 31st anniversary of hunger striker Martin Hurson

TYRONE VOLUNTEERS DAY was launched by the Mayor of Dungannon and South Tyrone, Phelim Gildernew, on Friday evening.

The programme of commemorative events takes place on 13th July, coinciding with the 31st anniversary of hunger striker Martin Hurson. The annual commemoration remembers the 56 Volunteers of the IRA's Tyrone Brigade and three Sinn Féin activists who lost their lives during the conflict.

Addressing the event, the newly-elected Mayor said:

“I am absolutely delighted to host this reception in memory of our many friends and comrades from Tyrone who laid down their lives during the most recent phase of the struggle for Irish freedom.

“I want to pay particular tribute to the families of our patriot dead and reassure them that we are forever mindful of their loss and will continue to pursue the goal of Irish unity for which their loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“Tyrone is a very proud county with a fierce spirit of resistance. We have always been to the forefront of the struggle, should that be in the campaign for civil rights, armed resistance or in the political arena.

“Unfortunately, our county has paid a huge sacrifice. Hundreds of young men and women have spent long terms in jail and the Roll of Honour demonstrates the huge role played by the Tyrone Brigade and the major sacrifice paid for their dedication to the cause of Irish freedom.”

Phelim commended the Martin Hurson/Fergal O’Hanlon Sinn Féin Cumann and the Commemoration Committee who have jointly organised this day of events to commemorate our patriot dead. The added dimension of the ‘1981’ play (written and performed by Tony Devlin) will make this a very emotional day, he said.

“The play is very moving and has received positive reviews and huge audiences throughout the country. It is very appropriate that it is being performed in Galbally Hall, just fields away from the homestead of Martin Hurson in Aughnaskea.”

Mayor Gildernew concluded:

“We continue to be inspired by the dedication of everyone who has laid down their lives in the cause of Irish freedom. On 13th July we will recommit ourselves to the struggle and we invite all republicans from Tyrone and throughout Ireland to join with us.”

The commemoration is organised by the local Sinn Féin cumann, in partnership with the Tyrone Sinn Féin Commemoration Committee. The parade will commence at 6pm from Galbally Community Centre following the final of the Martin Hurson Football Tournament and proceed to the Republican Monument on Cappagh Main Street, where the gathering will be addressed by veteran republican Stan Corrigan. The Tony Devlin play ‘1981’ will be performed in Galbally Community Centre, commencing at 8pm.