The power of art in the Sallins Mail Train case campaign for justice

In early 2025, I became acutely aware that the 50th anniversary of the Sallins Mail Train Robbery frame-up will fall at the end of March 2026. In response, I decided to curate and fund a special benefit concert to mark this milestone.

There was another, equally important reason for doing so. I wanted to honour the many artists, journalists, legal professionals, activists, and members of the public, across political parties, who campaigned tirelessly over the years. 

Space does not allow me to name everyone—nor could I be certain I would remember them all—but their collective efforts matter deeply.

As a musician, I grew up listening to singers and players who consistently lent their voices to social and political causes. They inspired me to look inward. The result was my album The Whistle Blower, released in late 2018, which reflects that journey of conscience and expression.

Artists can play a critical role in advancing social justice. They act as catalysts for conversation, foster empathy, amplify marginalised voices, and inspire action. Through creative expression, they challenge the status quo and make complex issues accessible and emotionally resonant for wider audiences.

Artists such as Christy Moore, Dónal Lunny, Mick Hanly have and Declan Sinnott featured in many campaigns, but they stand out for their involvement in drawing attention to the Sallins case — and in particular to the plight of Nicky Kelly, the last of the Sallins Three to be wrongfully convicted. 

• Moving Hearts concert for Nicky Kelly campaign in May 1983

In May 1983, Nicky was imprisoned and on hunger strike, prepared to die in protest of his innocence rather than serve out his 12-year sentence.

That same year, WEA Records released two powerful songs on separate 45-rpm vinyl records: The Wicklow Boy by Christy Moore, and Open Those Gates by Mick Hanly, Dónal Lunny, and Declan Sinnott. Both remain extraordinary works of protest and solidarity.

On Sunday, 29 March 2026, at Vicar Street, I can promise the audience two rare recorded performances of these songs. The evening will also feature rare audio and video contributions from well-known campaigners—and some unexpected voices. Perhaps I’ve said too much already.

• An Phoblacht/Republican News after the release of Nicky Kelly

I am urging readers—Sinn Féin members their friends – here and abroad - and elected representatives in particular—to make a special effort to buy a ticket or two. This is a once-off benefit event, a unique concert that will not be repeated in our lifetime.

The artists and contributors include Damien Dempsey, Kíla, John Spillane, Pauline Scanlon, Theo Dorgan, Paula Meehan, and Colm Mac Con Iomaire, alongside journalists Gene Kerrigan, Peter Murtagh, Justine McCarthy, and Patsy McGarry, and campaigners Osgur Breatnach and Nicky Kelly.

This concert is about memory, justice, and the enduring power of art as protest.

Tickets here: 

https://www.ticketmaster.ie/sallins-inquiry-now-benefit-dublin-29-03-2026/event/18006363B06BCF8E 

All profits after event expenses will go to the ongoing campaign for truth and justice.