Palestine

Around two hundred people took part in a rally at the entrance to Shannon Airport on Sunday, November 12, at which the names of children killed by weapons that may have passed through the airport were read out by peace activists.

Bernadette McAliskey says that people who have mixed feelings about campaigning for peace, including community and youth workers, should practice their ethics now and “stand up for what you believe in”. People must choose between ethics and their career, she said. Speaking directly to Ireland’s community workers, and particularly to some who may be fearful of consequences from condemning Israeli aggression, she said, “If you’re afraid to speak out about injustice (now)… you will fail when the chips are down to defend your own community”.

A fortnight on from US president Joe Biden’s visit to Ballina and on the eve of Mayo Day 2023, it’s worth acknowledging the voluntary effort that makes such events possible. It certainly impressed The White House which was taken aback by the “calibre and number” of volunteers who stepped forward to welcome home Ballina’s famous son. “They couldn't understand how we could mobilise over 200 people within a couple of days,” said Sheila Garvin, volunteer co-ordinator for Ballina 2023.