Jack O'Callaghan

The death has taken place in Tralee, Co Kerry, of Jack O'Callaghan, an active republican for over 60 years. There was a large turnout of family, friends and comrades for his funeral on Monday 24 February. The oration was given by Kerry Republican Martin Ferris.

Jack O'Callaghan joined the IRA in his native Kerry in the 1930s and was interned without trial in the Curragh from 1940 to 1944. The 1940s were bleak times for Kerry republicans. Charlie Kerins from Tralee was hanged by the State and Maurice O'Neill from Cahirciveen was executed by firing squad. But the commitment of men like Jack O'Callaghan never wavered. He reported back to the IRA upon release. He played a valued part in the campaign of 1956-62 and in 1969 he and his comrades were instrumental in the formation of a new leadership in the Republican Movement.

In his oration, Martin Ferris praised the role played by Jack O'Callaghan: ``He and the men and women of the 1940s, along with the republicans who prosecute the struggle to this day, are men and women of peace. They believed and we believe for there to be a lasting peace there must be justice and there must be equality of treatment.

``Jack O'Callaghan supported the efforts of the Sinn Féin leadership in trying to bring about a peace settlement. Only a few short weeks ago he was present when Martin McGuinness and Pat Doherty gave a detailed account of Sinn Féin's contribution to the peace initiative. Kerry Sinn Féin gave unanimous endorsement to their efforts.

``Jack O'Callaghan suffered mental anguish and pain for the past few months. He did not deserve to have to endure this pain. He was not accountable or responsible for the actions of others.

``Our presence here today is an appreciation of his commitment and dedication to our just struggle. It is no more than he deserves. This is not our final tribute to Jack O'Callaghan - our final tribute to him will be when we have achieved the aims and objectives of Irish republicanism, when we have justice and a united Ireland in peace and an end to tyranny.''