50 years of An Phoblacht

“On this we stand” was the headline of the first An Phoblacht, published a half century ago in February 1970. This has been the foundation stone of An Phoblacht content ever since. It is a commitment that we would promote and sustain an independent republican message for all. In a world of corporate, commercial and conservative media, we would provide a radical, cutting commentary on the failures to deliver the republic promised in the 1916 Proclamation and the 1919 Democratic Programme for Government.

In the intervening years, the contributors, editors, layout and production staff, proofers, sub editors, sales and administration workers and the brave drivers who throughout the conflict ensured that deadlines were kept, and that the republican message was delivered throughout Ireland, were also vital parts in a unique collaborative partnership, that culminated in ensuring republican news was available at home and abroad.

We are proud of An Phoblacht throughout the years, from its beginnings, to its merger with Republican News and the subsequent redesigns, up to its transformation to a vibrant digital online portal and quarterly magazine today.

In the coming issues of An Phoblacht, we look forward to sharing in greater detail than ever before the story of An Phoblacht and Republican News.