MEP honours Kerry republicans

Six-County MEP Bairbre de Brún was in Kerry earlier this month to attend a Sinn Féin social where she made a special presentation to two senior republicans from the county. She presented plaques to Brendy Bonn of Ballymac, Tralee, and to Paddy Campbell of Bishop's Court, Ballyduff, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the Republican Movement down through the years.

De Brún made a special trip from her busy schedule in Brussels to be at the event in the Earl of Desmond Hotel. She said she was delighted and honoured to be able to come to Kerry to make these presentations to two men who had "given their all to further the cause of Irish freedom".

Both Brendy and Paddy said a few words thanking their colleagues for giving them the honour, but Brendy Bonn added: "I have bit more to do before I can feel that I deserve this," which received a rapturous applause.

Martin Ferris TD paid tribute to both men and thanked them for their dedication over the years and in particular for their role in winning Sinn Féin a seat in the Dáil in 2002.

Two other republicans from North Kerry who were unable to attend the event were also honoured; Johnny Holly and Michael Donal O'Sullivan, both from Listowel.