Tom Kealy Commemoration, Kildare

Main speaker at the commemoration, Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh

A CROWD of close to 100 people gathered in Donaghcumper Cemetery, Celbridge, on Sunday 27 November to remember veteran Celbridge republican Tom Kealy.
Speaking at the graveside, Ide Cussen of Kildare Sinn Fein said:
“It is of great significance to hold this commemoration on the 30th anniversary of Tom’s passing which is also the year of the 30th anniversary of the 1981 Hunger Strikes. Without people like Tom Kealy, the landscape of our local and national history would be very different. It is just unfortunate that he did not get to witness the growth in support for Sinn Fein and the Peace Process.”
A wreath was laid on the grave of Tom by local man and friend Vincent Ward. The ceremony was also attended by another good friend and neighbour, Jimmy Nolan. Tom lived an extraordinary life, taking part in both the Tan War and the Civil War and was very popular in the locality. He is also mentioned in the recently-published book The Civil War in Kildare by James Durney.
Acknowledging his contributions to his community, Martin Kelly, Sinn Féin representative for the Naas area, added:
“The people of Kildare are living in unprecedented times. We soon face a very tough budget, which will take away from those who can least afford it to repay wealthy bondholders. We need to show those in power that there is an alternative and that there is a better way.”
The main speaker, Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, told of the dedication of men and women like Tom Kealy over the years in Kildare, many of whom have never received public recognition for their efforts.
“Tom Kealy fought for a sovereign republic where everyone is equal. People in Ireland today are not treated equally. In a time when banks and speculators are given preferential treatment, ordinary people who make incredible sacrifices every day bear the brunt of the mistakes of others. However, we can take inspiration from men and women like Tom Kealy, who show us that the human spirit can always overcome any obstacle.”